Hawaii: Things to Do and
Places to See on the Big Island

The Big Island of Hawaii has things to do and places to see for everyone. Sometimes, the best vacations are laid back with nothing on your to do but reading your favorite book. If that's the case, just find your favorite beach and relax—Need help? Check our Big Island Beach Guide. But, if you're interested in exploring and you want to experience more of Big Island Hawaii and the things to do there, you'll want check out some of these unique places that make the Big Island such an interesting place to visit.

Big Island Hawaii Things To Do
Akaka Falls
The Big Island of Hawaii has some amazing beaches for your quintessential Hawaii experience but the largest of the Hawaiian Islands has so much more too see and experience than that. From cities and towns to natural wonders like waterfalls and lush green valleys, here are some of the great places to check out on the Big Island of Hawaii and things to do while you're there. The cities of Kailua-Kona and Hilo are the main centers for shopping, dining. Luxury resorts featuring fabulous spas and award winning golf courses are on the Kohala Coast (not to mention some of the best beaches in the state). Experience the amazing beauty of the deep blue ocean at South Point or Kealakekua Bay and check out a waterfall more than twice as tall as Niagara Falls. Hike the lush green landscape of Waipio Valley and you'll feel like you just walked onto the set of Lost. And don't forget to don't forget to find time on your trip to Big Island Hawaii for things to do like the world famous Hawaii Volcanoes National Park with its active volcanic crater and surface lava flows. Plus there's the not-to-be-missed breathtaking summit of Mauna Kea at nearly 14,000 feet above sea level.

If you're looking for a guide to specific types of activities like surfing, snorkeling or stargazing, check out our Big Island Activities page where you can find out about where and how to enjoy these activities on the Big Island.

And there are whole other sections of the site dedicated to the best of the Big Island's volcano and lava sites and beaches.

Otherwise, here are some of the unique spots to check out that make the Big Island such an amazing destination for everyone from relaxation enthusiasts to adventure junkies…

Mauna KeaMauna Kea
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 home to world-class observatory telescopes. An amazing view by day and stargazing like you've never done at night.

Waipio ValleyWaipio Valley
Once the home of Hawaiian royalty. Drive or hike down into Waipio Valley where you'll find waterfalls, a mile-long black sand beach, lush rain forrest, taro fields and more.

KealakekuaKealakekua Bay
Just a short car ride south of downtown Kailua-Kona is Kealakekua Bay. It's famous for beautiful ocean views, Kona Coffee, great food and Hawaiian history.

Kona HawaiiKailua-Kona
It's almost always sunny in Kailua-Kona on the west side of the Big Island. Check out shopping, dining and amazing sunset views.

Hilo HawaiiHilo
Take a break from the sunny Kona side and explore verdant Hilo with it's spectacular gardens and waterfalls.

South Point HawaiiSouth Point
The southernmost point on the Big Island and the entire United States. Fearless cliff jumpers take the plunge and the rest of us enjoy the view.

Akaka Falls Big Island HawaiiAkaka Falls
This impressive waterfall on the Island's green east side is easy to get to and features some nice trails through bamboo rainforest.

Rainbow Falls Big Island HawaiiRainbow Falls
Smaller than Akaka Falls but very pretty. The name comes from the fact that you can sometimes see a rainbow over the falls.


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