Best Places to Visit on the Island of Hawaii Island of Hawaii, also known as the Big Island, is an amazing combination of volcanoes, rainforests, and beaches. The largest in the Hawaiian Islands, it offers extreme diversity, including black sand beaches and snow-capped mountains. Whether you are looking to adventure, discover nature, or relax, the Island of Hawaii offers many unforgettable experiences.
This guide to the Island of Hawaii will highlight many attractions travelers should visit and why the island is truly a traveler’s paradise.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park – A Journey Through Fire and Land
A trip to the Island of Hawaii just wouldn’t be complete without visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park! This park contains Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, two of the most active volcanoes on earth, and it is home to an extraordinary landscape of lava fields, steam vents, and craters. You can hike through the Thurston Lava Tube, drive the Chain of Craters Road, and see the glow of molten lava at night (if it is currently active). Besides the natural beauty and wonder of the active volcanoes, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which speaks to the power of nature!
Mauna Kea Summit – Stargazing at the World’s Tallest Sea Mountain
Mauna Kea is a mystical mountain that towers over 13,000 feet, and it is one of the best places in Hawaii for stargazing with world-class observatories. With a guided experience, one can see the stunning sunsets above the clouds and also view the Milky Way through high-powered telescopes. The sacredness of the mountain adds to its cultural significance and overall experience for Native Hawaiians, making it even more incredible.
Punalu’u Black Sand Beach – A Unique Coastal Escape
Punalu’u Black Sand Beach is one of the most recognizable beaches on the Island of Hawaii. It’s well-known for its shoreline of jet-black sand that was formed by volcanic activity. It’s an ideal beach for spotting endangered hawksbill turtles basking in the sun, too! The contrast of black sand and turquoise water is a photographer’s dream.
Though swimming may be a dangerous possibility because of rip currents, it’s great for having a picnic or even just walking around.
Akaka Falls State Park – A Tropical Paradise for Nature Lovers
Akaka Falls State Park is located within a lush rainforest and is home to the tallest waterfall in Hawaii, Akaka Falls at 442 feet. The easy loop trail is short and scenic and leads hikers past rushing waterfalls, beautiful flowers, and lush groves of bamboo. This hike is a great option for families and has opportunities to find a cool escape into the natural beauty of the Island of Hawaii, so pack your camera because the views will be postcard-worthy!
Waipi’o Valley – The Hidden Gem of the Big Island
Commonly referred to as the “Valley of the Kings,” Waipi’o Valley is a hidden paradise featuring breathtaking cliffs, magnificent taro fields, and a stunning black sand beach. The valley is accessible either by a very tough hike or by 4×4 vehicle. Waipi’o gives you a peek back into old Hawaii. Horseback tours and waterfall adventures are not to be missed for the adventurous traveler looking for pristine beauty on the Island of Hawaii.
Your Ultimate Island of Hawaii Adventure Awaits
The Island of Hawaii is a fantastic destination for any type of traveler, with volcanic landscapes and tranquil beaches. Whether you are on a hike through lava fields, stargazing at the top of Mauna Kea, or relaxing on dark sand beaches offered as you enter Punalu’u Ponds, the Big Island truly has magic. Plan your trip today and come see why this island is a traveler’s paradise!
