Explore Hawaii	Maui    Hawaii's Big Island    Lanai    Molokai    Oahu    Kauai

What to Do

Legend claims the Goddess Pele gave volcanic birth to the islands of Aloha with the Big Island being her latest addition. Not only does the Big Island have the longest active volcano in the world in Kilauea, but also the southernmost point in the United States. It is also over twice the combined size of the other islands.

With an airport on each side, you can land in either Kona or Hilo. The drive from one airport to the other is approximately 3 hours if you take the south route.

A trip to the 210,000 acre Hawaii Volcanoes National Park will give you the unique opportunity to get up close to Kilauea. You can also witness Mother Nature in live action from a helicopter tour. From above, you will be humbled by the sight of steam from red glowing lava pouring into the ocean.

The Hilo side of the island is mellower than the Kona side. This is the ideal place for the traveler that is seeking quiet surroundings and is looking to spend ample time near the active volcano. The Hamakua Coast, which is also on this side of the island is not only filled with cascading waterfalls but also is rich and green. And if you happen to be a fan of Hawai’i’s dance, the Hula, then do make a date with the Merrie Monarch festival. This is the world’s most renowned Hula competition which is held the weekend after Easter.

The Kona side is livelier in terms of human activity. Here you will find more hotels, dining options, and nightlife. And if you’re a fan of the ocean, then do book a daytime catamaran snorkel cruise. If you prefer being under the water though, then a choice of submarine cruises is also available. Here, the weather is almost always sunny and dry and this will give the golf enthusiast a chance to try his put in the Golf Capital of Hawaii.

The 175,000 acre Parker Ranch, one of the largest in the country, is situated in the town of Waimea. And from here to Hilo, a detour to the 13,796 foot Mauna Kea is a must for astronomy fans as you can book a star-gazing tour. In the winter months, if you are lucky, you will find snow atop this beautiful beast.

The Big Island exudes energies of creation, might, and spirit. From black sand beaches to an active volcano to desert scenery, it has landscape choices for every type of traveler.

Where to Stay

Hawaii’s Big Island is a land of diversity and that includes accommodations.  You can find a place to stay that will satisfy the taste of almost every type of traveler, from world-class resorts and beautiful bed & breakfasts, to condos of all kinds, to rustic cabins and campgrounds.

How about an ocean-view presidential suite in a 5 star resort?  Or what about a family-style resort with pools, waterslides and great restaurants.  Or a very comfy condo with a complete kitchen and cooking facilities.  Or a budget hotel where you just need a clean and safe place to sleep it out after a long day at the beach.

The major hotels are found in the Kona, Kohala, and Hilo districts.  Deluxe hotels with championship golf courses and the best beaches on the island are located along the Kohala Coast in the northwest.  Condominiums are concentrated in Kohala and Kona, although there are few in the Hilo District.