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 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.