There is something truly unforgettable about the Big Island of Hawaii. Unlike any other Hawaiian island, the Big Island offers a raw, untamed beauty and a diversity of landscapes that feels like you’re exploring multiple worlds in one. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, hiking through lava fields or just soaking up the sun on the white sand beaches, this perfect Big Island itinerary will cover must-see spots, hidden gems, and unforgettable moments. Truly, this island is the best of Hawaii. 

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When to Go:

Getting Around:

Where to Stay:

The Big Island has 2 distinct sides. The wet side and the dry side. With the towering volcanoes in the center of the island, it creates it’s very own weather pattern. The volcanoes block a lot of trade winds for the Kona side, capturing much of the moisture in the atmosphere and dropping it on the Hilo side. You will notice quickly that Kona and the surrounding areas have a lot of lava fields and mostly sunny, dry days. The Hilo side is lush with gorgeous plants, rain forests, and waterfalls- plus you can count on rain almost daily. 

For the ideal vacation, you likely want to stay on the Kona side and visit the Hilo side. During our stay, the visit to Hilo and the surrounding areas was hands-down, my favorite. It has a very “Jurassic Park” vibe. But it would have put quite the damper on the trip to have rain most of the days. 

We stayed with my parents, I know, lucky us. They have a condo in Kona that served as the PERFECT base for this trip. There were numerous resorts up and down this coast. You have SO MANY choices. Do you want to walk out to a luxury pool just steps from the beach with a few restaurants within reach? Maybe a hotel is your best option. Do you want to have a kitchen available and less traffic? Then a vacation rental is your choice.

Either way, here are some fantastic options to start your trip off on the right foot:

Kona Coast Resort

Resort offering 2 outdoor swimming pools, Spa service and restaurant on site.

Check pricing

Royal Kona

Upscale hotel offering luxury pool with cabanas and sun loungers. Beautiful property landscaping with restaurant on site.

check pricing

Hilton Grand Vacation

Family-friendly suites, outdoor pool with bar, on-site gym, and nearby beaches.

check pricing

Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo

Oceanfront hotel with 2 bars/lounges and on-site restaurant. Near Coconut Island Park

check pricing

How long should you stay?

I suggest a week. You could get away with 5 days, 10 would be fantastic if you have the time to really lounge and relax. But if you travel like me, we are there to see the world. Show me what you are made of, give me the goods, AND let me relax some, but I’ve got to get home and back to reality. So- 7 days is the perfect length of time. 

Things to Do:

If the Big Island had a motto, it would probably be something like “Why choose just one vibe when you can have them all?” Every corner of this island offers something different- something unforgettable. Here are some of my favorite experiences plus the ones that I missed to fill out this perfect Big Island itinerary. 

Night Dive with Manta Rays

Whale Watching (winter activity)

Chasing Waterfalls 

Visit a Coffee Farm

Helicopter Tour

Hike in Volcano National Park

Beaches and Snorkeling Galore

Get in the car and drive!

Use the GuideAlong app I’ve mentioned in previous blogs and let Ranger Rick (this is what we’ve named the voice) give you a wonderful, guided tour as you cruise by the Waipio Valley, Hamakua Coast, Akaka Falls, and through lava fields. Hunt for Petroglyphs, stop on the Coffee coast, and take a look at the caldera of Kilauea- Halema’uma’u.  

And finally, no trip to Hawaii would be complete without a gorgeous sunset Luau. 

Final Thoughts

From soaring over volcanoes and waterfalls in a helicopter to dancing under the stars at a luau to snorkeling with sea turtles, this island delivers nonstop magic with a side of chill. Pack your sense of adventure because the Big Island isn’t just a destination- it’s a full-blown experience. This perfect Big Island itinerary will leave you sandy, sun-kissed, and seriously considering a one-way ticket back.

Aloha

Leave me a comment about your trip to Hawaii or if any of these tips have sparked your interest to plan a getaway! 

For more beach escapes, check out this trip to Sayulita, Mexico and San Pedro, Belize.

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