Top Places to see while Traveling the Big Island!

Since we weren't able to go on an adventure this past weekend, I have compiled a list of the top places to view while visiting the Big Island;

1. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park; with an active volcano, in which visitors are guaranteed an epic experience, in which the hot, molten lava bursts forth with aggressive force from the caldera and enthralls many in the evening hours with its brilliant glow. Furthermore, the hiking areas will provide hours of outdoor entertainment, from the short hikes through the naturally formed Thurston Lava Tube, to the longer treks into the back country and down Kilauea Iki trail to the lava lake . This is a place which remains for most as a top item in their bucket list!

2. Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area; from body boarding the endless waves, to viewing the gorgeous sunsets, visitors are captured by this place in beauty, nature and the thrill of an ocean experience. One may either visit for the day and for those who love camping, try their cabins!  Only 30 dollars local price, or 50 dollars for visitors, these cabins provide a breathtaking view of the ocean and are comfortable to stay in year round. Furthermore, the main area has ample room for making meals, storing food and a nice seating area, which also overlooks the ocean. Bathrooms are located at the top and bottom of the trail of cabins and are secured with a code. Each visitor has a code for their cabin and bathroom for security. That being said, the environment is family friendly and also perfect for the outdoor couples' weekend retreat.

3. Rainbow Falls located at Wailuku River State Park, is a gorgeous waterfall located in downtown Hilo, Hawaii. Free of charge, it offers visitors a breathtaking view of the water, plunging eighty feet below and on certain days, one can view a waterfall at the bottom. There is a main viewing area at the parking lot level, then further up several flights of steps, you can view from the top of the waterfall. Some people like to swim in the pools above, however, risk of flash flooding is imminent and it is strongly advised not to. You can hike a small distance further and get pictures of very large banyan trees, and even sneak inside.. Overall, this waterfall is a definite attraction for many and will provide beautiful photos while on your trip to the island.

4. Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens is home to over 80 different species and the only tropical rainforest Zoo in the US. Located just 4 miles outside of Hilo, the location is convenient for visitors arriving on a cruise or from the airport etc. This zoo is free of charge,very well maintained and provides visitors of all ages with enjoyment. From the tigers Tzatziki and Siracha, to the spider monkeys, lemurs and plenty of other birds and reptiles, to the playgrounds and butterfly garden, this place will not cease to amaze! We visit weekly and the kids never tire of the playground, or seeing the Nene, free roaming among the other birds. If visiting the Big Island, this should be on your list,especially with kids!

5. Carlsmith County Beach Park is located along Hilo Bay down Kalanianaole Ave and is locally known as 4 mile. This is one of our favorite spots, as we love to view the green Sea Turtles there and swim in the lagoon. During lower tide, you can swim across to a small island, where the kids can play in the sand and you can lay and bask in the sunlight. The beach has a chill vibe, just like the rest of the island and swimming with the turtles has been a highlight for us and many others! As they are threatened, people are not allowed to touch or try to feed them. They will be friendly and approach, but please maintain your own distance, There is one main entrance with steps into the water, however, many areas are accessible throughout the lagoon. There are areas to picnic and a lifeguard station, which is wonderful just in case. This is definitely a top beach to visit, especially if eager to view the giant "honu" or Sea Turtles.

6. Punalu'u Black Sand Beach is famous on the Big Island and many tourists enjoy taking photographs and visiting this particular spot. The coarsely ground lava rock, creates a fascinating beach area and visitors are usually able to spot the "honu" here. There is a protected area for the turtles to bask, yet pictures are easy to take from a 20 foot radius. There is a lifeguard station there and although the beach is rocky, the pebbles are more rounded and the water is fairly warm. Beautiful palms lining the beach, with the sunlight stretching through occasional clouds, give the beautiful Hawaiian effect that any photographer would appreciate. After visiting the beach, we often venture further down Hi-11 about fifteen minutes to the quaint town of Naalehu,in which the famous Punalu'u Bake Shop resides. Baked goods such as Malasadas or donuts, are displayed in various forms of goodness from Lilikoi to Chocolate cream and are pure decadence at its best. Between a volcanic lava rock beach and the sweetness of donuts, this is always the perfect culmination of a beach day!

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Punalu'u Black Sand Beach
I have highlighted the main spots, particularly on the Hilo side, that we really enjoy and that account for memorable adventures. Each of these attractions provide something for the entire family. From wildlife viewing, to swimming, to seeing hot molten lava at the National Park, visitors will be thrilled and inspired.
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Carlsmith Beach


Image may contain: night, sky, outdoor and nature
Nightime lava viewing


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Thurston Lava Tube

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