Topographic Map Of Hawaii Big Island
Introduction
Located in the Pacific Ocean, the Big Island of Hawaii is a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers. The island is known for its diverse topography, which includes everything from volcanic craters to lush rainforests and stunning beaches. In this travel guide, we will explore the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports that this unique destination has to offer.
Top Attractions
Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park is home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Here, visitors can explore a vast landscape of lava tubes, craters, and steam vents. The park also offers hiking trails, scenic drives, and ranger-led tours.
Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden
The Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden is a 40-acre garden that features more than 2,000 species of plants, including orchids, bromeliads, and palms. Visitors can take a guided tour or explore the garden on their own.
Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park
Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park is a sacred site that was once a place of refuge for ancient Hawaiians. Visitors can explore the park’s temples, fishponds, and royal grounds.
Hidden Gems
Papakolea Beach
Papakolea Beach is a secluded beach that is famous for its green sand. The sand gets its color from olivine crystals that are found in the nearby volcanic rocks.
Honomalino Bay
Honomalino Bay is a secluded beach that offers crystal-clear waters and pristine white sand. The beach is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
Food Scene
Da Poke Shack
Da Poke Shack is a local favorite that serves up some of the best poke bowls on the island. Visitors can choose from a variety of fresh fish and toppings to create their own custom bowl.
Tex Drive In
Tex Drive In is a popular diner that is known for its malasadas, a Portuguese-style doughnut that is filled with cream or fruit.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Campgrounds
There are several campgrounds on the island that offer affordable accommodations for budget-conscious travelers. Some of the most popular campgrounds include Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Kona Coast State Park.
Happy Hour
Many bars and restaurants on the island offer happy hour specials, which can be a great way to save money on food and drinks. Some of the best happy hour deals can be found in Kailua-Kona and Hilo.
Outdoor Adventures
Ziplining
Ziplining is a popular activity on the island, with several companies offering tours that take visitors high above the treetops. Some of the most popular zipline courses can be found in Hilo and Kona.
Hiking
The island is home to several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the coastline and the interior of the island. Some of the most popular trails include the Kilauea Iki Trail and the Pololu Valley Lookout Trail.
Family-Friendly Activities
Hawaiian Vanilla Company
The Hawaiian Vanilla Company offers tours of their vanilla farm, where visitors can learn about the history and cultivation of vanilla. The tour also includes a tasting of their vanilla products.
Mauna Kea Observatory
The Mauna Kea Observatory offers tours of their facilities, where visitors can learn about the telescopes and the research being conducted at the observatory.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Waipio Valley
Waipio Valley is a remote valley that can only be accessed by foot or by four-wheel drive. The valley is home to a black sand beach and several waterfalls.
Kahuku Unit
The Kahuku Unit of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a remote section of the park that is home to several hiking trails and a picnic area. The area is known for its unique plant and animal life.
Natural Wonders
Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls is a stunning waterfall that is located in Hilo. The waterfall gets its name from the rainbow that can often be seen in the mist.
Wailuku River State Park
Wailuku River State Park is a beautiful park that is home to several waterfalls and hiking trails. The park is also known for its unique plant and animal life.
Vibrant Nightlife
Hilo Town Tavern
Hilo Town Tavern is a popular spot for live music and dancing. The bar also offers a variety of local beers and cocktails.
My Bar
My Bar is a popular nightclub that is known for its DJ sets and dance floor. The bar also offers drink specials throughout the night.
Local Markets
Hilo Farmers Market
The Hilo Farmers Market is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.
Kona Farmers Market
The Kona Farmers Market is another popular market that offers a wide variety of local products. Visitors can find everything from fresh fruit to handmade jewelry.
Beaches and Mountains
Hapuna Beach
Hapuna Beach is a beautiful white sand beach that offers crystal-clear waters and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Mauna Kea Summit
The summit of Mauna Kea is one of the best places on the island to stargaze. Visitors can take a guided tour or explore the summit on their own.
Cultural Immersion
Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site
Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site is a sacred site that was once a place of worship for ancient Hawaiians. Visitors can explore the temple and learn about the history and culture of the island.
Hulihee Palace
Hulihee Palace is a historic palace that was once the vacation home of Hawaiian royalty. Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace and learn about the history of the monarchy.
Art and Music Scene
East Hawaii Cultural Center
The East Hawaii Cultural Center is a community center that offers a variety of art and music programs. Visitors can attend concerts, art exhibits, and workshops.
Kahilu Theatre
The Kahilu Theatre is a performing arts center that hosts a variety of events, including concerts, plays, and dance performances.
Walking Tours
Kona Historical Society Walking Tour
The Kona Historical Society offers a walking tour of the historic district of Kailua-Kona. Visitors can learn about the history of the town and its role in the development of the island.
Waimea Walking Tour
The Waimea Walking Tour is a self-guided tour that takes visitors through the historic town of Waimea. The tour includes stops at several historic landmarks and buildings.
Architectural Marvels
St. Benedict’s Painted Church
St. Benedict’s Painted Church is a historic church that is known for its vibrant murals and stained glass windows.
Anna Ranch Heritage Center
The Anna Ranch Heritage Center is a historic ranch that offers tours of the property and the buildings. Visitors can learn about the history of ranching on the island.
Historical Sites
Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site
Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site is a sacred site that was once a place of worship for ancient Hawaiians. Visitors can explore the temple and learn about the history and culture of the island.
Hulihee Palace
Hulihee Palace is a historic palace that was once the vacation home of Hawaiian royalty. Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace and learn about the history of the monarchy.
Biking Routes
Kona Coast Ride
The Kona Coast Ride is a scenic bike ride that takes visitors along the coast of the island. The ride offers stunning views of the