Things To Do On Big Island

For Free, For Couples, For Kids & More

What To Do In Hawaii Island On Vacation

Thinking about how to fill your days on the biggest Hawaiian Island? Depending on your accommodations (the wet Hilo side or the dry Kona side) the timing of activities and pickups will change dramatically.

From both areas you can choose snorkeling adventures in clear waters, hiking to hidden waterfalls, and feeling the rumble of an active volcano to name a few options. Learn about Hawaiian traditions at ancient sites and museums in Hilo while you can enjoy the traditional luaus in Kona. And don’t miss stargazing from Mauna Kea—it’s unforgettable.

If you’re seeking excitement, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, this Hawaiian Island has it all!

Cheap Or Free Things Romantic Expeditions Beachside Activities Gardens & Museums Unique Experiences Family Activities What To Do When It Rains Upcoming Events Best Things To Do

Cheap Or Free Things To Do

Looking for some fun at a great value? Staying at one of the many vacation rentals is a great way for a group to connect better and save money. You can all enjoy Hawaii Islandʻs stunning beaches, taste test Kona coffee, go on scenic hikes, and find hidden waterfalls for little to no cost. Experience Hawaiian culture through free events and festivals, and don’t miss out on warm sunsets and stargazing opportunities.

Participating in activities, like rentals, guided walks, and lessons is a great way to support the local economy and become part of an ohana.

Girl On Tour Of Lava Fields Big Island

Pololu Loop Trail Located Near Kapaau Big Island

Kohala Coast Waikoloa Big Island Luxury

Romantic Things On Big Island For Couples

Looking to add a touch of romance to your Big Island getaway? With its natural charm, the island sets the scene for love providing couples the perfect setting to connect, relax, and create lasting memories together. From strolls along the ocean in Kailua-Kona to sunset cruises and private sightseeing tours, there’s plenty to spark romance. Let us handle the details, so you can focus on falling in love all over again amidst the beauty of the Big Island.

For couples who share of a love coffee, Kona coffee farms are wonderful ways to connect with each other. Our sightseeing tours stop at a variety of farms along their routes.

Big Island Mauna Kea Stargazing Free Photos The Sun Rises And Sets

Big Island Snorkel Spots

Soar From Tree To Tree On This Amazing Canopy Zipline Tour Hawaii Forest Big Island Zipline

Things To Do On Big Islandʻs Beaches

The relatively “new” Hawaii Island has the fewest beautiful beaches of any of the Hawaiian islands. Much of the shoreline is rocky lava rocks, with a sharp drop-off, making getting in and out dangerous. The coral reefs around the island are not old enough to build up as many white sand beaches. You may have to head quite a way to enjoy a bigger beach in the Waikoloa area, on the Kona side of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. Kua Bay, just south of the resort area is also a great option and worth a visit.

The beaches on the island come in various colors and with certain tours, you can visit them. Take a private tour to visit a green sand beach or a volcano tour to visit one of many black sand ones. Some surfing lessons occur at small beaches while a couple of snorkel cruises have beach boarding options. Check out the beach things below.

Beautiful Sunset On The Big Island Kohala Coast Waikoloa Hawaii

Kona Coast Tiki At City Of Refuge Big Island

Keiki Beach Kailua Kona Big Island

Visit Big Islands Gardens & Museums

Step away from the crowds and use a local guide to explore the island’s charming gardens and museums! While the island is famous for its exhilarating outdoor adventures, these cultural attractions offer a more laid-back and unique perspective, where you can explore the island’s heritage and natural beauty. Our sightseeing tours provide visits to world-famous museums at national parks and in historic towns while also making stops at charming gardens and parks.

Visit visitor center museums, the Place of Refuge, and even the Tropical Botanical Garden of Hawaii. Our private tours offer a wider range of options to visit the many small gardens located throughout the island.

Kona Sunset Hawaiian Village Big Island

Big Island Scenics Guest

Rainbow Falls Hilo Big Island

Konaʻs Most Unusual And Unique Things To Do

Break away from the ordinary on your vacation while staying in Kona, Hawaii! The island has some of the most unique adventures and offbeat activities you’ll ever experience. Explore ancient lava tubes, stargaze on a mountain, swim with mantas, and more. Big Island has many one-of-a-kind adventures suitable for anyone.

Kilauea is one of the most studied and visited active volcanoes in the world. We canʻt guarantee you will see lava but if you have the opportunity to see it at night, it is something you don’t want to miss!

Big Island Scenics Cave

Manta Ray Night Snorkel Kohala Big Island

Big Island Scenics Volcano Forest

Things To Do On Big Island With Kids

To all the adventurous families with toddlers, we applaud you! We know it’s not always easy planning a vacation or traveling with kids, but the memories you’ll make are worth it. Let us make things a little easier for you! We’ve got plenty of fun activities, places, and things to do with your little ones, and with so many activities on the island to choose from, you’ll find something for everyone, even for the older teenagers too!

A great option that families pick is to take a boat tour out to Captain Cook and swim in beautiful, calm waters with lots of ocean toys. Some boats include SNUBA and sea rockets too!

Family On Chain Of Craters Road Big Island

The Best Surf Lessons In Kona Hawaii Lifeguard Surf Instructors Big Island

Visitors At Overlook Of Kilauea Caldera Volcanoes National Park Big Island Hawaii

What To Do When It Rains

Don’t let a little rain put a damper on your Big Island vacation! Rainy days offer a perfect opportunity to explore indoor attractions like museums, galleries, and cultural centers. You can also indulge in some retail therapy at local shops or enjoy a leisurely meal at one of the island’s many delicious restaurants. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not take a scenic sightseeing tour to admire the island’s volcanic and tropical scenery? You’ll find many ways to make the most of your rainy day on the Big Island!

Island Breeze Luau Big Island

Volcano House Dining Room Visitors Lunch Volcanoes National Park Big Island

Volcanoes National Park Volcano House Exterior Big Island Hawaii

Book A Restaurant Early

Most luaus are outdoors so when they are canceled due to rain indoor dining spots will be crowded.

Go Shopping

Grab an umbrella and stroll the streets in the warm tropical rain. Itʻs a unique thing to do!

Movies, Shows & More

There are numerous small museums and movie theaters located in the major towns. Check them out!

What To Do In Big Island Today, Tomorrow & Upcoming

The Big Island never disappoints when it comes to things to do. Whether you’re exploring today, planning for tomorrow, or mapping out your adventures for the weeks ahead, we can be your guide to help you make the most of your time here.

Since it takes time to travel between regions, we set up the events happening for Kailua-Kona, Waikoloa, and Hilo separately below.

Kilauea Night Glow Volcanoes National Park Big Island

Snorkle Oahu Family Turtle Big Island

Private Kayak Tours Big Island Private

Waikoloa Venues

Isaacs Art Center Hapuna Golf Course at Mauna Kea Resort Waikoloa Beach Resort Queen’s Marketplace Mauna Kea Resort

Kailua-Kona Venues

Historic Kailua Village Aloaliʻi Cultural Resource Center at King Kamehameha Hotel Kona Salt Farm by Sea Salts of Hawaii Donkey Mill Art Center King Kamehameha Resort Kona Farmers Market Outrigger Keauhou, Kona

Hilo Venues

University of Hawaii at Hilo Performing Arts Center East Hawaii Cultural Center Palace Theater Puna Farmers Market

The Best Things To Do On Hawaii

Looking to experience the best that the Big Island has to offer? From hiking to hidden waterfalls to thrilling volcano adventures, the Big Island has it all. If you’re craving excitement or relaxation, there’s something for everyone here.

The best things you should do on the big island are on the Kona side, except for visiting historic Hilo, the volcano, and Rainbow Falls. We encourage first-time visitors to take a sightseeing tour to get a good overview of the island, without tiring yourself out by driving it all!

Big Island Stargazing Tour Sky Full Of Star

Manta Ray Night Snorkel Kohala

Big Island Sightseeing

Dreaming of the perfect Big Island getaway? Connect with us to bring your dream vacation to life!

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