Things To Do On Big Island
For Free, For Couples, For Kids & More
Book A Restaurant Early
Most luaus are outdoors so when they are canceled due to rain indoor dining spots will be crowded.
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 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.
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Kayak And Swim in the Umauma River
Spend a leisurely afternoon on the Umauma river. Kayak, stand-up... More
- 3 Hrs. Adventure Tour At Umauma Visitors Center
- Food, Drinks And Entertainment
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Stars Above Waikoloa
Spend an hour exploring the deep reaches of space with state of... More
- Explore Amazing Galaxies & Stars
- Expert Guidance From An Astronomer
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Kona Haunted Hele Tour
Take this tour of Kailua-Kona town and learn about the historic... More
- 2 Hrs. Walking Tour In Kona
- Guide Included
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.
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Hawaii Loa Luau
Hawaii Loa Luau features an evening filled with hula dancers,... More
- Hours Of Live Music
- Full Buffet Luau Dinner
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Luxury Catamaran Yacht Snorkel Sail
The six-guest maximum private cruise makes for an uncrowded,... More
- 4 Hrs. Yacht Cruise From Honokohau Harbor
- Food, Drinks, Guide, and Equipment Included
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Experience Hawai’i Tour
This premier helicopter tour departing from Kona is not one to... More
- 120 Min. Doors-On From Kona Airport
- Fly over Mauna Kea & Kohala Volcanoes
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.
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Grand Circle Tour Of The Big Island
See the best parts of the Big Island of Hawaii on this full-day... More
- 12 Hrs. Grand Circle Island Tour From Kona Hotels
- Akaka Falls, Volcanoes, Black Sand Beaches & More
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Waikoloa Beach Marriott Luau
The Waikoloa Beach Marriott Luau is a fun Hawaiian cultural... More
- 3 Hrs. Luau at Waikoloa Beach Marriott
- Food, Drinks, and Entertainment
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Island Breeze Luau
Treat Yourself To A Royal Hawaiian Luau Held On The Former Estate... More
- 2 Hrs At Kamakahonu National Historic Landmark
- Food, Drinks, And Entertainment
- Enjoy A Luau Under The Stars
- Family-Friendly Luau
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.
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Big Island Of Hawaii Private Tours
See more of Hawaii's Big Island with a private tour guide in a... More
- 8-10 Hrs. From Kona & Hilo Hotels
- Private Guide & Tour Vehicle For Your Group
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Private Hilo Waterfall Tour
Experience Hilo's Hidden Gems on a Private Tour - Waterfalls,... More
- 8 Hrs. Private Waterfall Tour From Hilo
- Local Guide & Park Entries Included.
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Historic Kona And Farm Tour
Explore historic sites and buildings along the Kona Coast while... More
- 7 Hrs. Farm Tour from Kona Resorts & Pier
- Food, Drinks and Access Fees Included
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!
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Big Island Manta Ray Night Snorkel
Go for an unforgettable moonlight snorkel with manta rays off the... More
- 2.5 Hrs. Snorkel With Manta Rays From Honokohau Harbor
- Snacks, Warm Beverages, and All Required Equipments Provided
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Hilo Helicopter Tour: Lava and Rainforests Adventure
No trip to the Big Island is complete without a helicopter tour... More
- 60 Min. Doors-On From Hilo Airport
- Pilot Narrated Flight. 6 Guest Max.
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Umauma Ziplining And Kayaking Tour
Have a day of adventure ziplining, kayaking, stand-up paddling,... More
- 5 Hrs. Zipline Adventure at Umauma Ranch
- Meal, Drinks and All Equipment Included
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!
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Dolphin Watch And Deluxe Snorkel Adventure
Board a 65 Ft. Catamaran and embark on a snorkel adventure for... More
- 4.5 Hrs. From Kailua-Kona Pier
- Breakfast, Lunch, All Snorkel Equipment, and Water Toys
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Submarine Dive Off Kona
The Atlantis submarine dive in Kona is a must-experience activity... More
- 1 Hr. From Kailua-Kona Pier
- Underwater Exploration with Narration
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Waikoloa Dolphin Encounter
Swim and hang out with dolphins in the Lagoon in Waikoloa on the... More
- 45 Mins. Dolphin Encounter At Waikoloa
- Meet, Swim, Play With And Feed Dolphins
- Guided Dolphin Encounter
- Family-Friendly Dolphin Expierence
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!
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.
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!
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Twilight Volcano And Stargazing Tour
See the top Hawaii Island sights during the afternoon and evening... More
- 10 Hrs. Volcano & Stargazing Tour From Kona Resorts
- Evening Lava Glow & Night Photo Experience
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Grand Circle Tour Of The Big Island
See the best parts of the Big Island of Hawaii on this full-day... More
- 12 Hrs. Grand Circle Island Tour From Kona Hotels
- Akaka Falls, Volcanoes, Black Sand Beaches & More
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Explore The Waipio Ranch UTV Tour
This 2.5 hour UTV guided tour is packed with senic views, old... More
- 2.5 hours UTV Tour at WOH Ranch in Honokaa, Mon.-Sat.
- Drive Your Own UTV and Explore Hamakua
- Open Daily
5:00am to 9:00pm, HST