Hawaii Island] About 15 Attractions of the Big Island of Hawaii! Recommended places to visit and recommended activities!

Hawaii Island, nicknamed the Big Island

Hawaii Island is larger than the other islands in the state of Hawaii and is known as the Big Island.

This island is the place to experience the essence of the volcanic island of Hawaii, with its spectacular natural beauty spread over more than 10,000 square kilometers of land.

In this issue, we will introduce the attractions of the Big Island of Hawaii, so please be sure to read to the end!

 

What is the Big Island of Hawaii like?

There are several prosperous towns on the Big Island of Hawaii, with the major areas being Kona and Kailua-Kona in the west, Waikoloa Village on the west coast, and Hilo in the east.

The island is also divided into two main parts, with many resorts in the western part, while the eastern part is dotted with volcanic tourist attractions.

The climate is temperate throughout the year, but precipitation and climatic conditions vary from region to region, with diverse climatic zones ranging from arid to tropical.

The time difference between Hawaii Island and Japan is minus 19 hours.

 

How to get to Hawaii Island

Hawaii Island can be reached by an 8 to 10 hour flight from Japan.

Generally, flights that include a change of planes on Oahu are used, but direct flights to the Big Island of Hawaii are also available from Haneda Airport.

Hawaii Island has international airports in both Kona and Hilo, but if you are taking a direct flight, your arrival airport must be Kona International Airport.

 

Hawaii Island has many attractions.

The Big Island of Hawaii combines the best of both worlds: nature and resorts.

Since the island is not dedicated to resorts, there are fewer resort facilities than on Oahu, but there are accommodations and tourist attractions in various locations, as well as shopping areas and restaurants for tourists.

Many vacationers from all over the world come to enjoy the great outdoors while enjoying the luxury of a resort.

 

15 Hawaii Island Attractions

The attractions of the Big Island of Hawaii are innumerable, but we have selected 15 of them that we especially want you to experience!

We hope you will find it useful for your trip.

 

Spectacular, untouched wilderness

The Big Island of Hawaii offers spectacular and thrilling nature that defies the image of a tropical resort.

Volcanoes that continue to erupt, magma that flows, land that continues to expand, and beaches that lash high above the sea - these are things that are beyond human control.

Surrounded by such natural wonders where you can even feel the earth moving, the Big Island of Hawaii will provide you with beneficial and wonderful experiences that you will not find in other resort areas.

 

A powerful volcano

Hawaii Island is the most recently formed of the Hawaiian Islands and is still volcanically active. This makes it possible to see the powerful volcanoes up close and personal.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, located in the Hilo area, is a particularly good spot for volcano sightseeing, as Mount Kilauea has continued to erupt in recent years.

Observing lava and craters up close is a powerful and valuable experience.

 

Beautiful beach

The Big Island of Hawaii is surrounded by beautiful waters and its beach scenery is stunning.

From pristine beaches to beach resorts built on lava fields, each has its own unique charm.

One of the highlights of the Big Island of Hawaii is this diverse beach landscape.

 

Beautiful sunset

A must-see sight on the beaches of the Big Island of Hawaii is the sunset.

The beautiful dark orange gradation, combined with the surrounding nature, creates a spectacular view.

In particular, the west coast of the Kohala Coast is very popular among tourists, with some beaches offering rare pink sunsets.

 

starry sky

The Big Island of Hawaii offers an abundance of places to enjoy the night sky.

Beautiful starry skies can be seen from beaches and mountaintops, but Mauna Kea in Hilo is especially known for its beauty, and stargazing tours are popular.

You will experience an inspiring night sky that is truly aptly described as a starry night.

 

Magnificent waterfalls

Although we have mainly introduced the attractions of the volcanoes and the ocean, the Big Island of Hawaii is also home to lush forests and valleys, and beautiful waterfalls.

Akaka Falls, surrounded by tropical rainforest, and Rainbow Falls, famous for its rainbows, are particularly famous, and both are cherished by local residents as sacred places where mystical power resides.

 

A wide variety of activity experiences

While simply viewing the magnificent scenery of the Big Island of Hawaii may be a meaningful time, we also recommend getting to know the island better through activity experiences.

 

shopping

Shopping on the Big Island of Hawaii offers options for a wide range of needs. From local souvenirs to luxury brand goods, you will find a diverse selection of products.

At resorts, duty-free brand-name products and fashionable fashion accessories for the beach are popular.

The market also offers a wide variety of daily necessities and groceries at affordable prices. Depending on your mood and purpose, you will have an enjoyable shopping experience.

 

gourmet

The cafes and restaurants of the Big Island of Hawaii offer a wide variety of gourmet delights.

Cafes offering Hawaiian pancakes and malasadas, which are popular in Japan, are scattered throughout Hilo, Kona, and other areas.

For fine dining, the resort area of the Kailua-Kona region is the place to go.

Here you can enjoy high quality Hawaiian cuisine, including steaks and course meals.

On the other hand, in Hilo, where many Japanese Americans live, restaurants serving dishes familiar to the Japanese, such as poke and loco moco, are also popular.

In addition, there are many markets where you can enjoy fresh vegetables and tropical fruits that are well worth a visit.

All of the restaurants offer big-sized hamburgers, giving you a taste of America.

 

Let's learn about culture and history.

Hawaii Island is known as the first of the Hawaiian Islands to be first inhabited by Polynesians.

Hawaii's unique culture, including Hawaiian mythology and hula, was shaped by ancient Polynesians.

The famous first Hawaiian king, Kamehameha I, was also born and raised on the Big Island of Hawaii.

For this reason, it is also known as a place with deep ties to ancient royalty and a place where visitors can experience the history of royalty.

The Big Island of Hawaii has many places where visitors can learn about Hawaiian history and ancient culture.

In particular, historic sites such as the ancient royal palaces, Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, and the petroglyph carvings of Kailua-Kona are ideal for experiencing Hawaii's history and culture.

The Big Island of Hawaii offers many valuable opportunities to experience its deep history and culture!

 

Lots of power spots

On the Big Island of Hawaii, there are a number of power spots where waterfalls and volcanoes are believed to be inhabited by goddesses and are said to contain divine power.

These places are based on legends derived from Hawaiian mythology, but when you actually visit them, you cannot help but be enveloped by their mystical atmosphere and feel their power.

In particular, the Kohala Mountains, an extinct volcano located in the Kohala region, is beloved by Hawaiians as the birthplace of King Kamehameha I. The land itself is also known as a power spot.

The Big Island of Hawaii is full of power spots and is an attractive destination for those who wish to feel its mystical power and relax from the daily grind.

 

Popular as honeymoon

Hawaii is well known as a classic honeymoon spot, but Oahu, with its abundance of resort facilities, is more commonly chosen as a place to stay than the Big Island of Hawaii.

However, this may be because many Japanese are still unaware of the charms of the Big Island of Hawaii.

In fact, the Big Island of Hawaii is becoming increasingly popular among people from all over the world for offering a honeymoon experience unlike any other.

The powerful natural volcanoes, romantic and fantastic starry skies, and beautiful sunsets and sunrises can be shared by two people.

In addition, an abundance of power spots are located in nature, which will allow you to enjoy a calming trip.

In addition, there are shopping and dining spots where visitors can fully enjoy the resort atmosphere.

There is no reason not to choose the Big Island of Hawaii as your honeymoon destination!

 

Check out the limited items and other souvenirs.

Limited items and souvenirs available only on the Big Island of Hawaii are also attracting attention.

For example, at the plantations where Kona coffee is grown, you can purchase fresh coffee beans that are uniquely local.

Supermarkets where locals congregate carry a wide variety of foods made from native Hawaiian fruits and vegetables, and are more reasonably priced than souvenir stores that cater to tourists.

Hilo has many farmers' markets, where you can also find valuable handmade crafts and accessories.

We hope you will visit us to find souvenirs unique to the Big Island of Hawaii.

 

Local Streets

Hilo, in the east, is an area that has prospered due to many Japanese immigrants and is known for its local Hawaiian experience.

Signs and store names are often in Japanese, creating a nostalgic atmosphere for Japanese tourists.

There are also many restaurants and eateries loved by the locals, where you can enjoy local food.

A statue of King Kamehameha I has been installed on Kamehameha Avenue, and it looks down on Hilo Bay.

The surrounding area retains a traditional townscape, with stores and buildings in retro colors and designs.

It is known as a popular spot for photo opportunities.

 

Popular as a resort area

On the Big Island of Hawaii, there are several resorts developed in the lava fields of volcanoes, as well as facilities and hotels with golf courses.

Waikoloa Beach Resort and Hilo's expansive golf courses are also recommended.

Visitors can enjoy both the great outdoors and the luxury of a resort, which is irresistible.

 

Recommended Sightseeing Spots

Here are some of the most attractive sights you should visit when you come to the Big Island of Hawaii!

 

Kilauea Volcano

Mount Kilauea is the most prominent of the volcanoes on the Big Island of Hawaii.

The volcano is about 1,200 meters above sea level and appeared about 100,000 years ago, but the actual volcanic activity is believed to have started between 600,000 and 300,000 years ago.

 

Recommendations

It is an active volcano that continues to erupt frequently and red magma and lava flows can be observed even today.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where Kilauea Volcano is located, is a popular tourist destination because of its visible activity.

Furthermore, the crater is believed to be inhabited by Pele, the goddess of volcanoes, and it is believed from ancient times that she shaped the Hawaiian Islands.

Active volcanoes with such mythology involved have an unparalleled mystical appeal.

Although access may be restricted depending on the frequency of eruptions, when conditions are stable, many tourist sites are open and visitors can get a close-up look at the amazing spectacle of volcanic activity.

 

Access

Kilauea Volcano is located in the southwestern part of Hawaii Island, within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Distance from Hilo International Airport is about 50 minutes and from Hilo Town about 35-40 minutes.

It is easily accessible by car or tour.

 

Mauna Kea

Mauna Kea is a vast shield volcano on the Big Island of Hawaii and is the highest point in the Hawaiian Islands.

The summit is covered with clouds and occasional snow, and its beauty earned it its name from the Hawaiian word meaning "white mountain.

 

Recommendations

Mauna Kea is a popular spot for stargazing by the general public, with observatories set up for astronomical observations from around the world.

The summit can be accessed by 4WD vehicle, so there is no need to climb the mountain on foot.

It is a perfect location to enjoy not only the night sky, but also beautiful sunsets and sunrises.

 

Access

The trip from Hilo International Airport or Kona International Airport to Mauna Kea takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, respectively.

To reach the summit, a 4WD vehicle is required from the Visitor Center and will take you up the Mauna Kea Access Road.

Tours are the most convenient way to get around.

 

Rainbow Falls

Rainbow Falls, also known as "Rainbow Falls," is famous for its rainbows when the timing is right.

The waterfall itself is not large, but the abundance of water cascading down is spectacular.

The Wailuku River, the longest in the state of Hawaii, flows out of this waterfall.

 

Recommendations

Rainbow Falls is said to be home to the goddess of waterfalls and is famous as a sacred and power spot.

Therefore, visitors may feel a mysterious power.

If you can see a rainbow, you are even luckier! Please recharge your batteries at this beautiful waterfall.

 

Access

It is less than a 10-minute drive from Hilo Town.

From the airport, proceed past the town of Hilo and it will take about 15-20 minutes to get there. There are landmarks on the road for easy access.

 

Punaluu Black Sand Beach

As its name suggests, Punaluu Black Sand Beach is characterized by black sand.

The sand on this beach is composed of lava and volcanic ash, giving it a distinctive black color.

 

Recommendations

It is also famous as a habitat for sea turtles, and many people visit to see them.

Black sand beaches are rare in Hawaii, and are a sight that can only be seen on the island of Hawaii, which is home to many volcanoes.

With numerous palm trees and a tropical beach-like aspect, it offers an unusual and spectacular view.

 

Access

Located about 2 hours from Kona International Airport and about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Hilo International Airport, it is located on the western Ka'u coast.

 

South Point

South Point is considered the southernmost point of the United States and is a cape with beautiful blue waters as far as the eye can see.

It is called "Ka Lae" in Hawaiian, and it has been suggested that this may have been the site where civilization first began on the Big Island of Hawaii.

 

Recommendations

South Point is surrounded by sheer cliffs and a large ocean, and is a common sight for fishermen and local youths to dive in and play.

This is a must-visit spot for those seeking a spectacular view of the beautiful waters of the Big Island of Hawaii.

 

Access

It is located approximately 1.5 hours drive from Hilo International Airport and 2 hours from Kona International Airport.

Because of its southernmost location, a drive to the south is recommended.

 

Recommended Activities

Why don't you enjoy the magnificent nature of the Big Island of Hawaii in a more active way?

Here are five activities we recommend.

 

snorkeling

With snorkeling equipment and a swimsuit, this is an easy activity that allows you to observe underwater.

You can also swim and dive while peering underwater.

 

Recommendations

Snorkeling is one of the most challenging activities for people of all ages, from children to the elderly.

First-timers should start in the shallows on the beautiful beaches of the Big Island of Hawaii.

Because the waters of the Big Island of Hawaii are crystal clear, coral reefs, tropical fish, and even sea turtles and dolphins can be seen if you are lucky, making it a popular spot.

 

Lava Tour

This activity takes visitors to the crater of a famous volcano or caldera (an area sunk by volcanic activity).

Tours that allow visitors to walk on the lava are also available.

 

Recommendations

Sightseeing at a volcano is not a smooth process for beginners.

This lava tour is a convenient way to do so.

Especially in the case of an active volcano, some areas are off-limits to visitors, so we recommend guided tours for a safe and enjoyable experience.

It is also a great way to learn about the history of the volcano and its attractions on the spot.

 

helicopter tour

This activity allows visitors to enjoy sightseeing from the sky while being guided and briefed by a helicopter pilot.

Guided tours are available in both English and Japanese.

 

Recommendations

Ways to enjoy the Big Island of Hawaii are not limited to land.

The view of the Big Island of Hawaii from the sky is a spectacular sight that reveals its grandeur even more.

It is also recommended for those concerned about travel time on land.

The helicopter will allow you to smoothly visit many of the spots you wanted to see.

 

trekking

Trekking, simply put, is mountain hiking, and most people aim for the summit.

Since the footing is poor in some places and the mountain paths are subject to extreme temperature changes, it is recommended to wear trekking shoes and mountaineering wear.

 

Recommendations

Trekking to the top of the mountains of the Big Island of Hawaii is a popular activity that even beginners can easily start.

The views of the mountains located on the Big Island of Hawaii are so spectacular from their peaks that they make the slightly strenuous effort worthwhile.

The attraction is that by stepping on the earth with one's own feet, one can feel more at one with nature.

 

starry sky viewing

Stargazing is arguably the best activity on the Big Island of Hawaii.

There are many spots where you can see the picturesque and fantastic star-filled sky, making it an ideal environment for stargazing.

 

Recommendations

As I mentioned earlier, the summit of Mauna Kea is a high altitude mountain recommended for stargazing and stargazing, and the combination of the clear air and the high altitude makes for the best stargazing.

If mountaineering is not your thing, you can go to the beach, take a drive, or observe the night sky at the foot of the mountain.

The starry sky is beautiful everywhere on the Big Island of Hawaii, so this could be one of your favorite things to do during your stay.

 

Recommended Tours

Here are some recommendations for sightseeing tours that focus mainly on famous sites!

If you are planning a sightseeing trip, please check it out!

 

Hawaii Island Sightseeing Tour: Kilauea Volcano, Akaka Falls, and 15 other places + B-class gourmet tour

This is a full round-trip tour of Hawaii that takes you to 15 famous spots, including Kilauea Volcano and Waiappia Valley.

You can also enjoy local Hawaiian food such as loco moco and malasada.

Moreover, since it is a small group with a Japanese-speaking guide, it is extremely popular as a way to fully enjoy the Big Island of Hawaii.

 

Kilauea Volcano Helicopter Tour

For helicopter tours with spectacular views, we recommend this tour.

With a state-certified pilot (who is also a guide), you can be assured of a safe trip in the air.

The tour will visit various spots including Kilauea Volcano, Waikoloa Beach, and Halemaumau Crater, the crater of the volcano.

You can also see the stunning scenery of Waipio and Waimanu valleys, which are sacred sites considered to be the Valley of the Kings, and you can also land at the waterfalls in the valley.

Please enjoy a very satisfying air trip with this tour.

 

Wild Dolphins & Kealakekua Bay Snorkeling Tour

Dolphin watching and snorkeling tours are also available for children.

Designated a marine sanctuary and home to many marine species, Kealakekua Bay is also known as a snorkeling sanctuary.

Wild dolphins on the Big Island of Hawaii are used to people, and you will have a wonderful, dreamlike experience as you watch them swim adorably and up close.

 

Mauna Kea Stargazing & Island Sightseeing Tour

You can also visit the crater of the World Heritage Kilauea Volcano and observe the starlit sky from the foot of Mauna Kea, and enjoy the entire tour from morning to night.

Hawaiian-style lunches such as lau lau and kalua pork will also be offered.

It may be the most fulfilling day of your stay in Hawaii.

 

Waipio Valley Off-Road Tour Waterfall Swimming!

This tour allows you to enjoy the beautiful Waipio Valley and Akaka Falls from morning to evening.

At Kraniapia Falls, which has a drop of about 36 meters, visitors can swim in the waterfall basin.

A delightful picnic lunch is included.

The eco-adventure tours are filled with the natural wonders of the Big Island of Hawaii, and are a unique way to enjoy the island's charms to the fullest.

 

summary

We have introduced a lot of famous places on the Big Island of Hawaii, but was there anywhere that caught your attention?

After all, it is a vast Big Island, so we recommend a longer stay if possible!

We invite you to visit each of the attractions of the Big Island of Hawaii.

Unparalleled experiences and spectacular views far beyond your imagination await you!

Thank you for reading to the end.