Big Island (Hawaii) 10 days

Your gateway to the Big Island, located in Kailua-Kona. Pick up your rental car here to explore the island at your own pace.

Explore the historic heart of Kona, with its charming shops, oceanfront restaurants, and the iconic Ahu'ena Heiau.

• Stroll along Ali'i Drive for ocean views and souvenir shopping.
• Visit the Hulihe'e Palace for a glimpse into Hawaiian royalty.

Enjoy fresh, local seafood and sushi with stunning ocean views at this mid-range restaurant in the Four Seasons Hualalai.

• Reservations are highly recommended, especially for sunset seating.
• Try their signature Kona coffee-crusted ahi.

Step back in time to experience the life of a Kona coffee farmer in the early 20th century. Learn about the coffee cultivation process and enjoy a tasting.

• Wear comfortable shoes as there is some walking involved.
• Purchase some of their freshly roasted beans as a souvenir.

A place of refuge in ancient Hawaiian times, this park offers a fascinating look into Hawaiian culture and history with reconstructed temples and artifacts.

• Explore the Great Wall and the various ki'i (wooden statues).
• Learn about the kapu (sacred laws) that governed ancient Hawaiian society.

Adjacent to the historical park, this is a premier snorkeling and diving spot known for its abundant marine life and clear waters. Easy entry into the water from the lava rock.

• Bring your own snorkel gear or rent it nearby.
• Watch for spinner dolphins that often frequent the bay.

A popular oceanfront restaurant in Kailua-Kona offering a casual atmosphere and fresh Hawaiian cuisine, perfect for sunset dining.

• Enjoy their live music on select nights.
• The fresh catch of the day is always a good choice.

Home to Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, two of the world's most active volcanoes. Explore craters, steam vents, lava tubes, and diverse landscapes.

• Check the park's official website for current eruption status and safety information.
• Download the NPS app for offline maps and information.

Start your visit here to get oriented, view exhibits on volcanic activity, and speak with park rangers for the latest conditions and recommendations.

Walk through a massive, ancient lava tube that was formed by molten rock. The path winds through a lush rainforest to reach the tube entrance.

• Bring a flashlight or use your phone's light, though the path is generally well-lit.
• Be mindful of the damp conditions inside the tube.

Offers panoramic views of Halemaʻumaʻu crater. While the museum itself is closed for renovations, the overlook provides stunning vistas, especially at sunset.

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

• Book a table well in advance, particularly for dinner.
• Enjoy the ambiance and the possibility of seeing volcanic glow after dark.

A unique community on the edge of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, known for its art galleries, quirky shops, and charming B&Bs.

• Grab a coffee and pastry at a local cafe.
• Browse the local art and craft shops.

Witness the unique phenomenon of lava trees, where molten lava flowed around existing trees, leaving behind hollow casts. Walk the short loop trail through the forest.

• The interpretive signs explain the geological process.
• It's a quick but fascinating stop.

A dramatic black sand beach formed by the 2018 lava flow, featuring a new geothermal warm pond near the shore. The ocean can be rough here, so swimming might be restricted.

• Be cautious of strong currents if entering the ocean.
• The warm pond is a unique experience, but check local conditions.

A geothermally heated, chlorinated swimming pool located in a lush tropical setting. It's a relaxing spot to soak and unwind.

• The pond's temperature can vary.
• It's a great alternative if the ocean at Pohoiki is too rough.

A popular spot in Hilo known for its creative Pacific Rim cuisine and ocean views. Offers a good selection of local ingredients.

• Try their fresh fish dishes or the macadamia nut pesto pasta.
• Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

A beautiful, easily accessible waterfall just minutes from downtown Hilo. Best viewed in the morning when the sun creates rainbows in the mist.

• Visit early for the best chance to see rainbows.
• There's a short walk to a viewpoint above the falls.

Home to the stunning Akaka Falls, which plunges 442 feet into a gorge, and the smaller Kahuna Falls. A paved loop trail winds through lush rainforest.

• The trail can be slippery when wet, wear appropriate footwear.
• The sheer scale of Akaka Falls is breathtaking.

A magnificent botanical garden set in a lush valley along the Hamakua Coast. Features thousands of tropical plants, waterfalls, and ocean views.

• Allow ample time to explore the diverse plant collections.
• The walk down to the ocean is beautiful but can be steep on the way back up.

A serene Japanese garden located on Hilo Bay, featuring pagodas, koi ponds, and meticulously landscaped grounds. It's a peaceful place for a stroll.

• Enjoy the tranquility and the views of Coconut Island.
• It's a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

An intimate and highly-regarded restaurant in Hilo focusing on locally sourced ingredients and creative, delicious dishes.

• Reservations are essential and should be made far in advance.
• The tasting menu is an excellent way to experience their culinary artistry.

A scenic drive connecting the Hilo and Kona sides of the island, passing between Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. Known for its stark volcanic landscapes.

• The road is well-maintained but can be winding.
• Pull over at designated lookouts to appreciate the scenery.

Located at 9,200 feet, this is the starting point for many visiting Mauna Kea. Offers exhibits on astronomy and the mountain's cultural significance.

• Acclimatize to the altitude here before proceeding higher.
• Check the VIS website for stargazing programs.

At 13,803 feet, the summit offers unparalleled views and is home to some of the world's most advanced astronomical observatories. Requires a 4WD vehicle to access from the VIS.

• A 4WD vehicle is mandatory for the summit road.
• The altitude can cause altitude sickness; drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous activity.
• Sunset from the summit is spectacular, but dress warmly as temperatures are below freezing.

Even if you don't go to the summit, the VIS often hosts free stargazing programs with telescopes, offering incredible views of the night sky.

• Check the schedule for free public stargazing events.
• Dress very warmly; it gets cold at this altitude after dark.

A charming paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) town nestled in the cool, green uplands of the Kohala Mountains. Known for its ranches and paniolo heritage.

• Visit the Parker Ranch Center to learn about the history of ranching.
• Enjoy the cooler climate and the scenic drive.

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

• Lifeguards are on duty during daylight hours.
• Renting beach chairs and umbrellas is available.

The site of the largest sacred temple built in Hawaii, commissioned by Kamehameha the Great. Offers insight into ancient Hawaiian religion and unification.

• Walk the grounds and learn about the temple's history.
• The views of the coastline from the site are impressive.

An upscale, oceanfront dining experience at The Fairmont Orchid, offering farm-to-table Hawaiian regional cuisine.

• Reservations are essential.
• Enjoy the sunset and the sound of the waves while you dine.

A stunning viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of the dramatic Pololū Valley and the rugged Kohala coastline. A steep trail leads down to the black sand beach.

• The hike down is strenuous and requires good footwear.
• The view from the top is spectacular even if you don't hike down.

Another breathtaking viewpoint overlooking the sacred Waipiʻo Valley, known as the 'Valley of the Kings'. Access into the valley is restricted and requires a 4WD or guided tour.

• The steep road into the valley is not recommended for rental cars.
• Consider a guided tour for a safe and informative experience within the valley.

A beautiful bay offering calm waters perfect for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and swimming. It's also a great spot for sunset viewing.

• Rentals for water sports are available at the beach.
• Explore the ancient fishponds located near the beach.

Experience the magic of swimming with majestic manta rays in their natural habitat during a guided night tour, typically departing from the Kohala Coast.

• This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and a highlight for many visitors.
• Book well in advance as tours fill up quickly.

One of the few green sand beaches in the world, located near the southernmost point of the United States. Access involves a hike or a local shuttle service.

• The hike is about 2.5 miles each way and can be challenging.
• The local shuttle service (unofficial) is a popular option for a fee.
• The unique green sand is due to olivine crystals.

The southernmost point of the USA, a dramatic and windswept cape with sheer cliffs and historical significance. Known for its ancient Hawaiian canoe moorage.

• Cliff jumping is popular here, but extremely dangerous and not recommended.
• Respect the cultural significance of the site.

Famous for its jet-black sand and the frequent sightings of Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) basking on the shore.

• Never touch or disturb the sea turtles; maintain a respectful distance.
• The sand can be hot, so wear sandals.

A local favorite known for its sweet bread, pastries, and plate lunches. A great spot for a casual and delicious meal.

• Try their famous sweet bread, especially the coconut or guava flavors.
• It's a good place to refuel after visiting the black sand beach.

A vibrant market offering fresh local produce, flowers, crafts, and souvenirs. A great place to pick up last-minute gifts and taste local flavors.

• Open Wednesdays and Saturdays, with additional vendors on other days.
• Sample local treats like malasadas or tropical fruits.

A small, picturesque beach known for its disappearing sand during certain times of the year. It's a pleasant spot for a final swim or sunbathing.

• The 'magic' sand phenomenon occurs with strong waves.
• It's a convenient beach if you are staying in Kailua-Kona.

Return your rental car and depart from Kona International Airport, filled with memories of your Big Island adventure.