Hawaii’s Big Island is a place of immense natural beauty, vibrant culture, and endless opportunities for adventure. From the fiery spectacle of active volcanoes to the tranquil beauty of tropical beaches, there’s something to captivate every visitor. To help you navigate this diverse island, we talked to two Big Island locals—Malia and Keoni—who share their top 21 things to do.
### 1. **Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park**
According to Malia, no trip to the Big Island is complete without visiting this park. Witness the awesome power of nature at Kilauea, one of the most active volcanoes in the world.
### 2. **Snorkel at Kealakekua Bay**
Keoni recommends snorkeling in this marine conservation area known for its clear waters and vibrant marine life. It’s also a historic location where Captain Cook first landed in Hawaii.
### 3. **Explore Hilo Farmers Market**
Malia loves visiting this market on Wednesday and Saturday mornings for fresh local fruits, vegetables, crafts, and a true taste of island culture.
### 4. **Sunrise at Mauna Kea Summit**
Both residents agree that watching the sunrise from atop Mauna Kea is unforgettable. The tallest sea mountain in the world offers stunning views above the clouds.
### 5. **Akaka Falls State Park**
Keoni suggests a short hike in this park leading to one of Hawaii’s most famous waterfalls plunging 442 feet into a lush gorge.
### 6. **Night Manta Ray Snorkel**
Experience swimming with majestic manta rays at night near Kailua-Kona—a magical experience Malia finds unparalleled.
### 7. **Waipio Valley Lookout**
The breathtaking views from Waipio Valley Lookout are well worth the drive according Keoni; steep cliffs framing lush valleys leading down to a black sand beach.
### 8. **Punalu’u Black Sand Beach**
Malia recommends visiting this beach not just for its unique sand but also for frequent honu (Hawaiian green sea turtle) sightings.
### 9. **Lava Tree State Monument**
Explore eerie molds of tree trunks formed when lava engulfed moist forests here as per Keoni’s suggestion.
### 10. **Attend a Luau**
Enjoy traditional Hawaiian food, dancing and music at a luau—an essential Hawaiian experience that Malia cherishes deeply.
### 11. **Coffee Plantation Tour in Kona**
Kona coffee is renowned worldwide; both locals suggest touring a plantation to learn about coffee-making processes and sample exquisite brews.
### 12. **Hiking Pololū Valley**
Keoni loves hiking down into Pololū Valley where dramatic cliffs meet wild beaches—a perfect spot for landscape photography or quiet contemplation.
### 13. **Green Sand Beach at Papakōlea**
One of only four green sand beaches in the world according to Malia; formed from olivine crystals found in volcanic activity nearby.
### 14. **Scuba Dive at Puako Reef**
Keoni enjoys exploring underwater landscapes replete with coral formations and abundant fish species off Puako Beach Drive on Kohala Coast.
### 15. **Visit Pana’ewa Rainforest Zoo**
Located just outside Hilo, it’s America’s only tropical rainforest zoo says Malila—a wonderful family outing amidst exotic flora and fauna including white Bengal tigers.