Big Island Activity
Things To Do For Everyone

Deciding what kind of activities you want to do is an important part of planning your trip to the Big Island. Whether you're looking for action or relaxation. Hawaii has it all and the Big Island offers you the best of the Hawaiian experience.

How you plan your activities can make or break your time on the Big Island. Some people like to plan every detail and have it all organized ahead of time. I've always been more likely to plan as I go. But after spending time in Hawaii, I discovered the benefit of planning ahead... At least a little bit.

My best advice for enjoying Big Island activity? Plan the things you most want to do ahead of time. I don't mean that you need a daily schedule (be sure to get into the "we'll get there when we get there" island attitude too). But, deciding on and planning ahead for the things you think you will absolutely want to do will save you a lot of time.

Just about every Big Island activity that needs to be booked can be done ahead of time. Take advantage of this and book some of your most important Big Island activity before you go.

Whether its surfing, a helicopter tour, a breath-taking hike or an ocean-side round of golf - By planning and booking your "must-do" activities ahead of time, you will cut out the stress of last minute scrambling to make a booking that you could have done ahead of time.

When you arrive on the Big Island, you'll find activity guides and "Things To Do" brochures everywhere. Even though I spent months on the Big Island, my free time was precious to me. So I found it annoying when, instead of being out and enjoying the island, I was sitting in my room on the phone, pouring over lists of activities and phone numbers.

Get the best of both worlds - Plan ahead for the things you most want to do leave room to do the last minute things that you're sure to find out about after you arrive.

When it comes to Big Island activity there are some things that shouldn't be missed. Here's my list of things to do and places to see along with my best tips for each so that you can get the most out of every minute on the Big Island...

Surfing
The board sport like no other. Its ten times more fun than it looks on TV. Learning how to surf is one of the best experiences I've ever had. But I found out that trying to surf somewhere you've never been can be intimidating. Let me tell you all about surfing on the Big Island. Its challenging but amazing and anyone can learn!

Mauna Kea
This is a must do while on the Big Island. From seashore to nearly 14,000 feet in a short drive. The top of Mauna Kea is one of Hawaii's most sacred places. And its home to about a dozen world-class observatory telescopes. Its an amazing view by day and stargazing like you've never done at night.

Volcanoes National Park
The most popular attraction on the Big Island. See the lava flows and much much more.

South Point
The southern most point of the United States features open spaces, cliffs and even a green sand beach.

Snorkeling
Swim with amazing fish and even sea turtles. The Big Island has some great spots.

Waipio Valley
Another place you just have to see. The view from the top is amazing and there's lots to explore down below.

Golf
Dreaming of playing a round of golf with an ocean view. There's plenty of courses on the Big Island - Something for everyone's game and everyone's budget.

Hiking
From leisurely to ultra-ambitious - great hikes for everyone!

Helicopter Tours
Some of the best views of the Big Island's best spots are from the air.

SCUBA Diving

Shopping

Spas

Fishing

Luaus

Parker Ranch

City of Refuge