Big Island (Hawaii) 10 days

The main airport serving the island, located in Kailua-Kona. It's a convenient starting point for exploring the Kona side of the island.

• Pick up your rental car upon arrival for maximum flexibility.

The main street in Kailua-Kona, offering ocean views, shops, and restaurants. It's a lively area perfect for a leisurely stroll.

• Look for historical markers detailing the area's significance.

A historic royal vacation home, now a museum showcasing Hawaiian royalty artifacts. It offers a glimpse into Hawaii's past.

• Check the schedule for any cultural demonstrations or events.

A popular waterfront restaurant known for its fresh seafood and sunset views. It's a great spot for a romantic dinner.

• Reservations are highly recommended, especially for sunset seating.

Experience the history of Kona coffee farming with demonstrations and tastings. Learn about the cultivation and processing of this famous Hawaiian crop.

• Try the different roasts and purchase some freshly roasted beans.

A beautiful bay known for its excellent snorkeling and historical significance as Captain Cook's landing site. The water is crystal clear, teeming with marine life.

• Kayaking or boat tours are the best ways to access the prime snorkeling spots within the bay. Book in advance.
• Respect the historical and cultural significance of the area.

Adjacent to Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, this is a renowned snorkeling and diving spot with easy entry into the water over lava rock. It's famous for its abundance of fish and sea turtles.

• Wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine ecosystem.
• Be cautious of the entry points, as they can be slippery.

Located at the Four Seasons Hualalai, this upscale restaurant offers oceanfront dining with a focus on sustainable seafood and sushi. Enjoy a refined dining experience with stunning views.

Home to Kilauea, one of the world's most active volcanoes. Explore volcanic craters, steam vents, and lava tubes. The park offers dramatic landscapes and unique geological features.

• Check the official NPS website for current eruption status and safety advisories. Conditions can change rapidly.
• Wear sturdy walking shoes for exploring trails.

A popular 3-mile loop hike that descends into a crater floor, offering a unique perspective of volcanic activity. You'll walk across a solidified lava lake.

• Bring plenty of water, as the hike can be strenuous.
• Be prepared for changing weather conditions.

Walk through a massive lava tube formed by a river of molten lava thousands of years ago. The trail leads through a lush rainforest to the entrance of the tube.

• The path inside the lava tube is paved but can be damp and dark; bring a flashlight if you want to explore deeper.
• It can get crowded, so visit earlier or later in the day if possible.

Dine with a view of Kilauea caldera at this historic lodge. Offers American cuisine with local influences.

• Sit by the window for the best caldera views.

A scenic drive through Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, offering breathtaking views of past lava flows, the coastline, and the vast volcanic landscape. Several pull-offs allow for exploration.

• Stop at the Pu'u Loa Petroglyphs for a glimpse into ancient Hawaiian culture.
• The road ends at the coast, where you can see the Holei Sea Arch.

Famous for its striking black sand, formed from lava flowing into the ocean. It's also a common resting spot for endangered Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu).

• Do not touch or disturb the sea turtles; maintain a respectful distance.
• The sand can be hot, so wear sandals.

A lesser-known coastal park with a rocky shore and a small sandy area, offering a more secluded experience. It's a good spot for tide pooling and enjoying the ocean breeze.

• Explore the tide pools during low tide for marine life.
• It's a great spot for a picnic.

A local institution in Hilo, famous for its extensive pancake menu and hearty American breakfast/dinner options. A casual and beloved spot for good food.

• Try the macadamia nut pancakes for a taste of local flavor.

A beautiful waterfall easily accessible from Hilo, known for the rainbows that often appear in its mist on sunny mornings. It's a short walk from the parking area.

• Visit in the morning for the best chance to see the rainbow.

Features two stunning waterfalls, Akaka Falls and Kahuna Falls, accessible via a paved loop trail through a lush rainforest. Akaka Falls is one of the island's tallest.

• The paved path is stroller and wheelchair accessible.
• Keep an eye out for the vibrant native flora.

A spectacular botanical garden set in a lush valley along the coast, showcasing a vast collection of tropical plants, flowers, and trees. It's a serene and beautiful place to explore.

• Wear comfortable shoes as there are many paths and stairs.
• Allow ample time to fully appreciate the diverse plant life.

A beautiful Japanese-style garden located on the Hilo Bayfront. It features pagodas, stone lanterns, and meticulously maintained landscaping, offering a tranquil escape.

• Enjoy a peaceful walk along the water's edge.
• It's a popular spot for locals to relax.

A casual and popular spot in Hilo offering a diverse menu including local favorites, plate lunches, and seafood. Known for its friendly service and good value.

Witness unique lava formations that once encased trees, leaving hollow molds behind. The short loop trail winds through a forest of these fascinating geological remnants.

• Imagine the molten lava flowing through this area centuries ago.

This beach was dramatically reshaped by the 2018 lava flow, creating new black sand areas and warm ponds. It's a unique spot to experience the raw power of volcanic activity impacting the coastline.

• The warm ponds can be very hot; test the temperature carefully before entering.
• Be mindful of the currents if swimming in the ocean.

The site of recent lava flows, where geothermal activity continues to shape the landscape. While direct access to new lava might be restricted, the area offers a stark and powerful view of ongoing geological processes.

• Check local advisories for safe access to viewing areas.
• The landscape is rugged and constantly changing.

A small, bohemian town on the eastern side of the island. It has a unique character with local shops, eateries, and a laid-back atmosphere, offering a contrast to larger towns.

• Explore the local art galleries and unique shops.
• Enjoy the relaxed vibe of this resilient community.

Located at 9,200 feet, this is the starting point for many visitors heading to the summit of Mauna Kea. It offers educational exhibits about the mountain's astronomy and natural history.

• Acclimatize to the altitude here for at least 30 minutes before ascending further.
• Check the weather and road conditions for the summit.

The summit of Mauna Kea, at over 13,800 feet, is one of the best places on Earth for astronomical observation due to its altitude and clear skies. The views are unparalleled, and it's a sacred site for Native Hawaiians.

• A 4WD vehicle is required for the final ascent to the summit. Rental car agreements often prohibit this drive; consider a guided tour.
• The summit is extremely cold and the air is thin; wear warm clothing and be aware of altitude sickness symptoms.

Located at the summit access road turnoff, this is the highest public access point on Mauna Kea. It's a staging area for stargazing and offers incredible panoramic views.

• The summit road is often closed after sunset; check for evening stargazing programs.
• This is a popular spot for sunset viewing.

A popular gastropub in Waimea offering gourmet burgers made with local ingredients. A great place to refuel after a day exploring the mountain.

• Try their locally sourced beef or vegetarian options.

Explore the historic homes of one of Hawaii's oldest and largest ranches. Learn about the paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) culture and the ranch's significant role in the island's history.

• Tours are often guided and provide in-depth historical context.

Offers a stunning panoramic view of the legendary Waipio Valley, a sacred place with steep cliffs, taro fields, and a black sand beach. The valley itself is accessible only by 4WD vehicles or guided tours.

• The drive down into the valley is extremely steep and not recommended for rental cars.
• Respect the sacredness of the valley.

A charming historic town on the Hamakua Coast, known for its colorful buildings, independent shops, and local eateries. It retains much of its old plantation-era character.

• Browse the unique boutiques and art galleries.
• Try some local treats from a bakery.

A local favorite in Honoka'a famous for its malasadas (Portuguese donuts). They also serve plate lunches and other casual fare.

• Don't leave without trying their hot, fresh malasadas.

Offers a breathtaking vista of the dramatic Pololu Valley, with its rugged cliffs, black sand beach, and lush vegetation. A steep trail leads down to the valley floor.

• The hike down to the beach is strenuous and can be muddy; wear appropriate footwear.
• The views from the lookout are spectacular at any time of day.

A charming small town in North Kohala, known for its art galleries, unique shops, and historic buildings. It has a relaxed, artistic vibe.

• Visit the King Kamehameha statue in the town square.
• Enjoy browsing the local craft shops.

Consistently ranked among the best beaches in the world, Hapuna offers a long stretch of soft white sand and clear turquoise waters. It's ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and bodyboarding.

• Check ocean conditions; waves can be strong, especially during winter months.
• Restrooms and showers are available.

Located at the Fairmont Orchid, this oceanfront restaurant offers a romantic setting with Pacific Rim cuisine. It's known for its fresh, local ingredients and sunset views.

• Reservations are recommended, particularly for sunset dining.

Explore the preserved remains of an ancient Hawaiian fishing village. Walk among the stone foundations and learn about the traditional way of life.

• The coastal trail offers scenic ocean views.
• Imagine the daily lives of the villagers centuries ago.

A beautiful bay on the North Shore of Oahu (note: this is a common error, Waimea Bay is on Oahu, not Big Island. For Big Island, we will substitute a different beautiful beach). Let's replace this with a scenic spot on the Big Island.

A stunning crescent of white sand beach with calm, clear waters, often considered one of the most beautiful on the island. It's perfect for a final swim or relaxation.

• Public access is limited; arrive early to secure parking.
• The beach is known for its calm waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

Return your rental car and depart from Kona International Airport.