Hawaii Island] 10 recommended tours of the Big Island of Hawaii! Popular Sightseeing Spots and Popular Activities!

Hawaii Island, nicknamed the Big Island

Hawaii Island is located at the southern tip of the Hawaiian Islands and is nicknamed the "Big Island" because it is the largest island in the archipelago.

Its size is about the same as Gifu Prefecture, and it is famous as one of the world's leading resort areas.

 

What is the Big Island of Hawaii like?

The Big Island of Hawaii is home to clear blue oceans, spectacular wilderness, and numerous power spots that are not usually seen.

Also, although one gets the impression that the climate is mild throughout the year, there is a mix of different climatic zones within a single island, including mountains with snow on their peaks, desert areas caused by volcanic activity, and black sand beaches with black sand.

 

How to get to Hawaii Island

There are direct flights from Japan to the Big Island of Hawaii, which take approximately 7 to 8 hours and 30 minutes.

The difference in flight time is due to the different direction of the airflow on the way there and on the way back.

The only direct flights are to Kona International Airport on the west side of the Big Island of Hawaii.

JAL offers daily service from Narita, and Hawaiian Airlines offers service three times a week (Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday) from Haneda.

 

Attractions of the Big Island of Hawaii

Here are some of the most attractive points of interest on the Big Island of Hawaii!

 

Spectacular, untouched nature

On the Big Island of Hawaii, you can explore the pristine wilderness by trekking, horseback riding, or ATV.

Each location has a truly unique tropical landscape, with a uniquely Hawaiian ecology and sense of the passage of time.

Because it is an "island" like Japan, its natural environment is not easily influenced by the outside world and has been protected by the local people for a long time.

 

A powerful volcano

The island of Hawaii was once formed by the volcanic activity of five mountains.

World Heritage-listed Mount Kilauea is still volcanically active, with the most recent eruption occurring in 2018.

Tours are also available to see the crater and lava that was created during this eruption.

 

Beautiful Beaches

The Big Island of Hawaii is filled with clear, beautiful ocean and sandy beaches that contrast wonderfully with the wilderness.

Each beach has its own unique characteristics, from beaches suitable for snorkeling to beaches where sea turtles can be spotted with high probability, to beaches with green sand that look great in photographs.

We invite you to experience a moment at one of our many beaches!

 

Shopping and dining are also recommended.

There are many shopping malls on the Big Island of Hawaii that are frequented by locals.

There is a large collection of souvenirs as well as luxury brand goods and local products to keep your eyes busy.

Also, a visit to the night market at Chamorro Village is recommended.

And let's not forget the Hawaiian gourmet food!

Please try the poke bowls, giant steaks, hamburgers, acai bowls, and many other dishes that are sure to please the Japanese palate.

 

Let's learn about culture and history.

There are many facilities where visitors can learn about the unique culture and history of the Big Island of Hawaii.

There is a museum with research materials on volcanoes, a museum about the tsunami that once hit Hilo, and a museum about Kona coffee.

If you want to learn more about the Big Island of Hawaii, why not visit?

 

10 recommended sightseeing spots on the Big Island of Hawaii

Here are 10 popular and recommended tourist spots on the Big Island of Hawaii!

 

Kilauea Volcano

Kilauea Volcano is a volcano located in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and is famous for its ongoing volcanic activity.

 

Recommendations

Halemaumau Crater, which erupted and expanded in 2018, is a popular tourist attraction as a crater that can be observed up close.

It is also said to be the place where "Pele, the goddess of volcanoes" lives, and is known worldwide as a power spot.

Since there are many dangerous places along the volcano trekking route, it is recommended to take a tour whenever possible.

 

Access

From Kona International Airport, it is approximately 2 hr 9 min southeast via Saddle Rd.

From Hilo International Airport, it is approximately 45 minutes southwest via HI-11.

 

Mauna Kea

Mauna Kea is higher than Mt. Fuji and is the only mountain in Hawaii that gets snow.

And it is world famous as a tourist spot for astronomical observation at the summit.

 

Recommendations

Mauna Kea is very convenient because you can drive up close to the summit.

Also, if you are climbing in winter, you will need warm clothing.

Depending on the tour, you can also enjoy a set tour from sunset to stargazing in the evening.

 

Access

From Kona International Airport, it is approximately 1 hour and 31 minutes east via HI-190.

From Hilo International Airport, it is approximately 1 hour and 12 minutes northwest via Saddle Rd and Mauna Kea Access.

 

Rainbow Falls

Rainbow Falls is located a little outside of downtown Hilo and is famous for its beautiful rainbows.

 

Recommendations

The sight of water cascading down from a height of more than 20 meters is dynamic and exhilarating.

The probability depends on the amount of rainfall and other factors, but if you are lucky, you can see a rainbow over the waterfall.

Stairs have been installed upstream of the waterfall, so it is possible to easily get close to the waterfall.

 

Access

From Kona International Airport, it is approximately 1 hr 27 min east via HI-190 and Saddle Rd.

From Hilo International Airport, it is approximately 12 minutes west via Kekuanaoa St.

 

Green Sand Beach

Greensand Beach is located on the southern tip of the Big Island of Hawaii.

 

Recommendations

As the name implies, the entire beach is green in color, hence the name.

The reason it looks green is because the sand contains green peridotite crystals.

It is widely known as a truly photogenic spot.

 

Access

From Kona International Airport, it is approximately 1 hour and 39 minutes south via HI-11.

From Hilo International Airport, it is approximately 1 hr 44 min south via HI-11 and Hawaii Belt Rd.

 

Akaka Falls

Akaka Falls is a waterfall located in Akaka Falls State Park.

It is approximately 134 meters high and is famous for its appearance in Hawaiian songs and mythology.

 

Recommendations

The road to Akaka Falls is paved from the parking lot and is a hiking trail, making it relatively easy to reach the falls.

Also, it takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes to complete one lap around the park.

 

Access

From Kona International Airport, it is approximately 1 hour and 46 minutes east via HI-19.

From Hilo International Airport, it is approximately 29 minutes north via HI-19 and Hawaii Belt Rd.

 

hero

The city of Hilo is the largest on the Big Island of Hawaii and is characterized by its nostalgic streets lined with historic buildings.

 

Recommendations

Hilo is a city with a lot of art activity, with colorful blue, red, and pink buildings lining the traditional streets.

Another reason for its popularity is the abundance of fashionable galleries, cafes, and restaurants, many of which are very photogenic.

 

Access

From Kona International Airport, it is approximately 1 hr 28 min east via HI-190 and Saddle Rd.

From Hilo International Airport, it is approximately 8 minutes west via Kekuanaoa St and Kilauea Ave.

 

Waipio Valley

Waipio Valley is one of the most famous power spots on the Big Island of Hawaii.

The unspoiled wilderness is also popular as a relatively easy trekking course.

 

Recommendations

There are several scenic points in this valley.

Black sand beaches, taro fields, Hiirawe Falls, and Hakalaoa Falls are sights that are hard to see in Japan.

Simple trekking trails are also available, allowing visitors to enjoy numerous spots in about three hours.

 

Access

From Kona International Airport, it is approximately 1 hour and 16 minutes northeast via HI-19.

From Hilo International Airport, it is approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes northwest via HI-19 and Hawaii Belt Rd.

 

Punaluu Black Sand Beach

The Punaluu Black Sand Beach is one of the famous black sand beaches located on the southeastern Cau coast.

It is not uncommon for beaches on the Big Island of Hawaii to be black sand.

Incidentally, black sand is finely crushed black lava.

 

Recommendations

This beach is not suitable for swimming, but picnic facilities are available.

It is also famous for the Hawaiian green sea turtles that show up on its beaches.

In Hawaii, sea turtles are called "guardians of the sea" and are treated as sacred creatures.

 

Access

From Kona International Airport, it is approximately 1 hour and 48 minutes southeast via HI-11.

From Hilo International Airport, it is approximately 1 hr 6 min southwest via HI-11 and Hawaii Belt Rd.

 

Hapuna Beach State Park

Hapuna Beach State Park is the largest beach on the Big Island of Hawaii and has been voted the most beautiful beach in the United States.

 

Recommendations

It is a large beach, so it is seldom crowded with people.

In addition, lifeguards are on duty, and restrooms, showers, and parking lots are available, so families can enjoy themselves to the fullest.

Incidentally, we recommend that you head there in the morning if at all possible, as the parking lot can become crowded around noon.

 

Access

From Kona International Airport, it is approximately 30 minutes northeast via HI-19.

From Hilo International Airport, it is approximately 1 hr 25 min northwest via Saddle Rd.

 

South Point

South Point is the southernmost area of the Big Island of Hawaii.

It is famous as the place where the first immigrants to Hawai'i arrived in the past and boarded their canoes.

 

Recommendations

Here, the area is almost entirely cliffs, with a vast blue ocean stretching out before you.

Some locals jump into the sea from this cliff for fun, but it is not recommended for those who are not used to this locality, as it is very high and windy.

 

Access

From Kona International Airport, it is approximately 1 hour and 42 minutes south via HI-11.

From Hilo International Airport, it is approximately 1 hour and 42 minutes south via HI-11 and Hawaii Belt Rd.

 

You can enjoy it on the Big Island of Hawaii!
10 recommended activity experiences

Here are 10 recommended activities to enjoy on the beaches and in the wilderness of the Big Island of Hawaii!

 

snorkeling

Snorkeling is a marine activity that allows you to easily enjoy the underwater world without a special license.

Put on a snorkeling vest (like a life jacket), fins, underwater glasses, and a snorkel (a pipe for breathing), and look into the sea while floating on the surface of the water.

 

Recommendations

The Big Island of Hawaii is surrounded by beautiful blue waters.

There are many creatures in the sea that are not easily seen in Japan, so why not enjoy this mysterious world to the fullest?

Also, snorkeling does not require swimming, so even beginners can enjoy it as long as they can float.

 

diving

Diving is a marine activity in which you carry an oxygen cylinder on your back and dive underwater to enjoy the marine world.

Unlike snorkeling, it requires a license.

 

Recommendations

It is not easy to challenge because you need to obtain a license, but the appeal is that it allows you to see underwater creatures up close and personal.

Oxygen cylinders are also available so that they can remain underwater for extended periods of time.

 

SUP

SUP stands for "Stand Up Paddleboard," a marine activity in which one enjoys exploring the ocean on a surfboard while paddling.

This relatively new activity was created a few years ago and is becoming more popular and well-known every year.

 

Recommendations

Surfboards are surprisingly stable, and even beginners can easily ride them with a little practice.

In addition to daytime strolls, visitors can also enjoy the area by attaching LED lights to their surfboards and strolling at night, or doing yoga on their boards.

 

Dolphin Tour

There is also a chance to see wild dolphins in the waters of the Big Island of Hawaii!

 

Recommendations

Dolphins can be seen mainly in Kealakekua Bay and on the Kona Coast.

You can enjoy watching the dolphins on the deck of the ship while cruising, snorkeling with them, and so on.

In the water, dolphins can sometimes be heard!

 

Lava Tour

This tour allows visitors to observe lava flowing from the famous volcanoes on the Big Island of Hawaii.

This is possible only on the Big Island of Hawaii, where there are volcanoes that are still active today.

 

Recommendations

The main attraction is the sight of lava from the Kilauea volcano flowing into the ocean.

There is said to be little danger of explosions and other hazards, and a Japanese-speaking guide may be provided.

You can choose from various types of tours, such as trekking or boat rides.

 

helicopter tour

You can enjoy the volcanoes, coastline, and dynamic waterfalls of the Big Island of Hawaii from the sky.

 

Recommendations

With the pilot's commentary, you can enjoy the spectacular view of the Big Island of Hawaii from above.

Places that can only be reached by trekking or are too dangerous to enter can be easily observed from the sky.

Although the price is a little high, it is a wonderful sight to see and a great place to visit with the family.

 

riding horse

Ride a horse and take a leisurely stroll through the wilderness of the Big Island of Hawaii.

 

Recommendations

Visitors can stroll through the Waipio Valley to view the dynamic scene created by the cliffs and waterfalls of the Waipio Valley, Kahua Ranch in North Kohala, and Umahuma Falls.

In most cases, a guide is provided, so beginners can feel at ease.

The horses also provide an element of animal therapy, making for a very relaxing experience.

 

zipline

Zip-lining is an activity in which visitors slide down a wire rope stretched between trees in the wilderness, using pulleys.

 

Recommendations

Sliding down from a very high point in the wilderness of the Big Island of Hawaii at speeds as fast as a car, visitors can experience a sense of exhilaration and thrill that they would not normally have the chance to experience.

Since the body is firmly secured with a harness or other equipment, even those who are not good at exercising or beginners can enjoy this activity.

Those who can afford it can also ride in acrobatic poses or race with friends!

 

Segway (motorized personal vehicle)

A Segway is a vehicle that is steered by shifting the center of gravity; there is no gas pedal or brakes, and the vehicle moves by moving the center of gravity forward or backward.

 

Recommendations

On the Big Island of Hawaii, you can ride this Segway on public roads, which is one of the activities you cannot experience in Japan.

Once you get the hang of it, it is as easy to maneuver as a bicycle.

While riding a Segway, you can enjoy an exhilarating view of Hawaii's unique cityscape.

 

stargazing

Stargazing at the top of Mauna Kea, a mountain higher than Mt.

Mauna Kea is the only mountain in Hawaii that gets snow.

 

Recommendations

Hawaii Island is famous for its very favorable conditions for astronomical observation because the number of streetlights is limited, there are few tall buildings, and the weather is clear most of the time.

Thirteen observatories from 11 countries around the world are located on this summit.

 

10 recommended tours of the Big Island of Hawaii

Here are 10 recommended tours that you can enjoy on the Big Island of Hawaii!

 

Mauna Kea
Stargazing & Island Sightseeing Tour

This tour offers an efficient one-day tour of the famous sightseeing spots on the Big Island of Hawaii.

There are no physically demanding itineraries, so people of all ages can enjoy the tour.

The tour will visit the base of Mauna Kea, Akaka Falls, and the city of Hilo, and you will receive a masalaada (Hawaiian-style doughnut) at a drive-in along the way.

 

helicopter tour

This tour allows you to enjoy the vast nature of the Big Island of Hawaii from above by helicopter.

This tour will take you over the Kilauea Volcano, Waipio Valley, and the Kohala Coast.

The helicopter has a lot of glass walls so you can get a good view of the scenery, and a Japanese-speaking guide can be added as an additional option.

 

Wild Dolphins & Kealakekua Bay
Snorkeling Tour

The snorkeling experience will take place in Kealakekua Bay, a 5-minute walk from the Sheraton Hotel.

In addition to seeing colorful tropical fish and coral reefs, there is a chance to swim with dolphins.

The guide is in English, but will use easy-to-understand vocabulary.

 

Mauna Kea Sunrise & Stargazing Tour

At the summit of Mauna Kea, famous for its astronomical observation, we will watch the stars and sunrise.

Experienced guides will explain about celestial bodies and constellations, and even take commemorative photos.

Warm clothing and hot drinks are provided, so you can participate even if you don't have any.

Due to the popularity of this tour, reservations should be made at least one month in advance.

 

Tour of 3 major attractions on the Big Island of Hawaii and starry sky tour

This tour takes you to the Waipio Valley, Akaka Falls, and Kilauea Volcano, the three most famous sites on the Big Island of Hawaii, and ends with a stargazing tour at the foot of Mauna Kea.

During the tour, we will have dinner at a diner called KEN'S House of Pancakes, where we will taste local food.

This tour alone will give you a taste of what the Big Island of Hawaii has to offer!

 

Hawaii Island Parasailing

This tour allows you to enjoy exhilarating parasailing on Kona Beach.

You can see the city of Kona and the magnificent nature and ocean of the Big Island of Hawaii all at once.

You can choose the parasailing height from 243m or 365m, and even those who do not experience parasailing can ride with you on the boat, although there is a limit to the number of passengers.

 

Horseback Riding Tour

This tour is an elegant horseback riding tour through Waipio Valley.

Along the way, you can also see taro fields and the famous photo-worthy Hilawe Falls.

Tour participants can be as young as 8 years old, and the entire tour is guided by a Japanese-speaking guide, so even beginners can participate with ease.

 

Hawaii Island Spiritual Tours

This tour will take you to the many power spots of the Big Island of Hawaii.

The tour will visit South Point, the southernmost point of Hawaii Island, Kilauea Volcano, Akaka Falls, Waipio Valley, Black Sand Beach, and more.

Guides with 20 years of experience on the Big Island of Hawaii will assist you in finding the aura and other information on the site.

 

Segway tour

This tour offers a chance to explore the streets of the Big Island of Hawaii while riding a Segway.

Japanese-speaking guides will carefully assist you, so even beginners will be able to ride easily once they get the hang of it.

This tour includes the Kona Beach Hotel, the former residence of King Kamehameha the Great, and the Mokuaukaua Association.

 

Keauhou Bay Sea Kayak &
Snorkel Tour

This tour allows you to enjoy both sea kayaking and snorkeling in the crystal clear waters of the Big Island of Hawaii.

Guides will be provided in Japanese, so please do not worry.

The small group size also allows for flexibility in pacing.

Activities will take place mainly in the waters of Keauhou Bay and Kuamoo Bay.

 

summary

We hope you enjoyed our introduction to tours, sights, and activities you can enjoy on the Big Island of Hawaii.

If you are a beginner on the Big Island of Hawaii, we recommend that you join a tour so that you can enjoy a variety of sightseeing and activities efficiently!

Please fully enjoy this wonderful tropical space that is different from Japan.