Big Island itineraries and trip planning

Complete Itineraries

Kalani's Perfect Big Island Trip Plans

Written by a Local Expert

Putting It All Together

I've shared my favorite spots and secrets. Now, here's how I would string them all together for the perfect trip, taking the guesswork out of your planning.

Remember the golden rule: Split your stay between both sides of the island. This isn't just a suggestion—it's essential for understanding what makes this place special.

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The 7-Day "Best of Both Worlds" Itinerary

Perfect for First-Time Visitors

Arrival in Kona

Settle in and get oriented

Morning

Arrive at KOA, pick up rental car, check into lodging. Head to Kikaua Point Park for a relaxing first swim.

Tip: Ask the guard for a beach pass; it's perfect for shaking off jet lag.

Afternoon

Stroll down Aliʻi Drive to get a feel for downtown Kona. Grab coffee at Kona Coffee & Tea to experience the local vibe.

Evening

Casual dinner at Papa Kona Restaurant & Bar for fantastic sunset views over the bay.

South Kona Adventure

Coffee, culture, and manta rays

Morning

Morning Kona Coffee Farm Tour (Greenwell Farms for overview or Heavenly Hawaiian for views).

Tip: Go early, learn the process, and get caffeinated for the day!

Afternoon

Explore Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park. Immerse in history, then snorkel at Two Step next door.

Tip: Best 1-2 punch of culture and nature on the island.

Evening

Manta Ray Night Snorkel. Your big "wow" moment.

Tip: Book well in advance! Most popular activity for a reason.

Kohala Coast

World-class beaches and dramatic valleys

Morning

Head north to Hāpuna Beach State Park for classic white-sand beach day.

Tip: Arrive before 10 AM to secure good spot and parking.

Afternoon

Drive to Pololū Valley Overlook and take the short but steep hike to dramatic black sand beach.

Tip: The hike back up will get your heart pumping! Bring plenty of water.

Evening

Dinner in Waimea. Choose Merriman's for farm-to-table or Big Island Brewhaus for craft beer and pub food.

Travel Day to Hilo

Cross the island and explore Hilo

Morning

Check out of Kona lodging. Drive scenic Saddle Road towards Hilo.

Tip: Stop at Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station for different perspective and silversword plants.

Afternoon

Arrive in Hilo, check into lodging. Explore Hilo's waterfront, including Rainbow Falls and serene Liliʻuokalani Gardens.

Evening

Dinner at Pineapples Island Fresh Cuisine in downtown Hilo for open-air atmosphere and fresh, local ingredients.

Volcano Day

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

Morning

Head to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Hike iconic Kīlauea Iki Trail and walk through Nāhuku (Thurston) Lava Tube.

Tip: First stop at visitor center for latest eruption info and trail closures.

Afternoon

Drive entire Chain of Craters Road to coast to see Hōlei Sea Arch.

Tip: Weather changes instantly. Bring layers and rain jacket, even if sunny in Hilo.

Evening

Return to park after dark to witness incredible glow from Halemaʻumaʻu crater (if eruption ongoing). Dinner in Volcano Village.

Hilo & Hāmākua

Markets, waterfalls, and adventure

Morning

Visit Hilo Farmers Market (especially Wednesday/Saturday) for local treats, exotic fruits, unique souvenirs. Then drive up Hāmākua Coast to Akaka Falls State Park.

Afternoon

The Umauma Experience for zipline or ATV adventure.

Tip: Your East-side adrenaline fix. Book tour time online in advance.

Evening

Casual dinner back in Hilo. For some of the best seafood on the island, try Moon and Turtle, a local favorite with creative menu.

Puna / Departure

Final exploration and departure

Morning

Drive scenic Kapoho-Kalapana Road (the "Red Road") to see dramatic new landscapes from 2018 lava flow. Visit new black sand beach at Pohoiki.

Tip: Powerful look at how island is still being born. Be respectful of impacted residents.

Afternoon

Head to Hilo (ITO) for departure, or begin drive back to Kona (KOA), filled with memories.

Evening

Safe travels and aloha!

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The Ultimate Big Island Road Trip (10 Days)

For Those Who Want It All

For visitors with more time, expand the 7-day itinerary with these additions:

Extra Kona Day

Explore South Point (southernmost point of USA) and challenging hike to Papakōlea Green Sand Beach.

Adds: Unique geography, challenging hike

Cultural Immersion Day

Take cultural tour at Aloha Adventure Farms and explore hidden beaches like Makalawena.

Adds: Cultural education, pristine beaches

Relaxation Day

Spend extra time at world-class beaches or take leisurely scenic drives with multiple stops.

Adds: Slower pace, deeper exploration

💡 Itinerary Customization Tips

For Adventure Seekers:

• Add extra zipline/ATV days
• Include Mauna Kea summit tour
• Extended volcano hiking

For Relaxation:

• More time at each beach
• Leisurely coffee farm tours
• Extended farmers market visits

A Final Aloha from Kalani

Mahalo nui loa for letting me share my home with you through this guide. The Big Island has a way of getting into your soul, of changing how you see the world. I hope these recommendations help you discover not just the sights, but the spirit of this incredible place.

As you explore, please remember the Hawaiian value of mālama ʻāina—caring for the land. This means:

• Never take lava rocks or sand from beaches or volcanic sites. This is disrespectful to our culture and the goddess Pele, and it's believed to bring bad luck
• Use only reef-safe sunscreen to protect fragile coral ecosystems. Standard sunscreens contain chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate that harm marine life and are now banned in Hawaii
• Always respect sacred sites (heiau), historical areas, and private property. Stay on marked trails and don't disturb stone walls or structures

A few key safety reminders for navigating our powerful environment:

Respect the power of the ocean. Never turn your back on it, be aware of strong currents and unpredictable surf, and swim at lifeguarded beaches whenever possible. Be prepared for rapidly changing weather, especially when heading to higher elevations like Mauna Kea or into Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Stay on marked trails. Volcanic landscapes can be unstable, with hidden cracks and sharp lava rock. Closed areas are closed for visitor safety.

The Big Island will challenge you, inspire you, and hopefully leave you with a deeper connection to the natural world. Whether you're ziplining over waterfalls, walking through ancient temples, or simply watching the sunrise paint Mauna Kea gold, you're experiencing something truly special.

This island taught me that the best adventures aren't always the ones you plan. Sometimes they're found in the quiet moments between activities, in conversations with local people, in taking time to really see what's in front of you.

A hui hou—until we meet again. The Big Island will be here waiting for your return, probably with a few new stories to tell and adventures to share. Safe travels, and remember to leave only footprints and take only memories.

Aloha.