Since our first trip traveling to the Big Island of Hawaii in December 2022, we’ve been hooked. We’ve been back two more times, and each visit reaffirms that Hawaii—especially the Big Island—holds a special place in our hearts.
While we’re eager to explore the other islands, we keep choosing the Big Island for a few key reasons: frequent flight deals from Salt Lake City, the laid-back vibe that just clicks with us, and the practically perfect weather in Kona.
One thing we love is that there’s no pressure to “see it all” in one trip. We know we’ll be back, so we can take our time, revisit favorite spots, and always discover something new.
After multiple visits, I’ve put together five tips to help you plan your own Big Island travel experience. Each time we’ve gone, we’ve made Kailua-Kona our home base, so keep that in mind while reading!
As you plan your visit and explore Hawaii, remember—it’s more than just a destination; it’s home to a deep history and vibrant culture. Travel Pono by respecting the land, the people, and the traditions that make these islands so special.
1. Venture Beyond Kailua-Kona
Kailua-Kona (a.k.a. Kona) is the most popular area to stay on the Big Island, and for good reason. We have always stayed along Ali’i Drive. It’s super walkable, packed with restaurants, cute shops, and stunning oceanfront views—especially at sunset. But while Kona is an amazing home base, the Big Island offers so much more beyond its lively downtown.
If you don’t venture out, you’ll miss some of the island’s most incredible sights. The diverse landscapes, from black sand beaches to lush rainforests and active volcanoes, make the Big Island unique compared to other Hawaiian islands. Renting a car (which we’ll talk about next) will allow you to experience everything from the dramatic cliffs of the Hamakua Coast to the otherworldly terrain of Volcanoes National Park.
Must-See Spots Beyond Kona:
- Punalu’u Black Sand Beach: One of the most famous black sand beaches in Hawaii, often visited by resting sea turtles.
- Pololū Valley Lookout: A breathtaking viewpoint with an optional steep hike down to a secluded beach.
- Akaka Falls State Park: Home to a stunning 442-foot waterfall surrounded by lush rainforest.
- Mauna Kea Summit: A spectacular spot for stargazing and catching an unforgettable sunset above the clouds.
- Kealakekua Bay: A fantastic place for snorkeling with vibrant marine life and historical significance as the landing site of Captain Cook.
2. You Need to Rent A Car
Unless you’re arriving via cruise ship and only have a few hours to explore, renting a car is an absolute must. The Big Island is, well, big—93 miles wide and 222 miles long—which means that getting around efficiently requires your own wheels.
If you’re staying in Kona, you can walk to restaurants and markets, and there’s even a free trolley along Ali’i Drive. But beyond that, public transportation is limited, and ride-share services like Uber may not be as reliable as on the mainland. Having a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Things to Know About Driving on the Big Island:
- The island’s winding roads can be narrow with rapidly changing elevation, so take it slow and enjoy the views. Plan accordingly if you are someone who gets motion sickness.
- Convertibles might sound fun, but at the end of the trip, we found them to be impractical. Sudden rain showers, tricky windows, and limited space made our SUV rental the better choice.
- The speed limit statewide is capped at 60 mph, and “island time” applies to driving, too. Embrace the slower pace!
- Watch out for the island’s unexpected residents: feral goats—especially along the drive between Kona and Hilo. They blend into the landscape and have a habit of crossing the road at the worst times. Cute? Yes. Predictable? Not so much.
Scenic Drives to Check Out:
- Chain of Craters Road: A stunning drive through Volcanoes National Park that takes you to dramatic lava fields and ocean views.
- Hamakua Coast Scenic Drive: A lush, waterfall-filled route between Hilo and Waipio Valley, perfect for nature lovers.
- Saddle Road (Daniel K. Inouye Highway): The fastest way to cross the island, with unique volcanic landscapes and a route to Mauna Kea.
- Kohala Mountain Road: A scenic, winding drive with breathtaking views of rolling green hills and the coastline.
When planning your Big Island travel itinerary, factor in drive times. The longest trip we took was from Kona to Volcanoes National Park (about 2 hours). I would recommend adding extra time for stops at places like Punalu’u Bake Shop (hello, delicious malasadas!) and the famous Punalu’u Black Sand Beach.
3. Pack for All Kinds of Weather
The Big Island is home to eight of the world’s thirteen climate zones, which means you can start your day in sunny Kona and be in misty rainforests or chilly mountain elevations by lunchtime.
To stay comfortable, be sure to pack:
- An SPF shirt for extra sun protection (because let’s be real, you’ll probably forget to reapply sunscreen at some point).
- A lightweight long-sleeve shirt for higher elevations, where temperatures drop noticeably.
- A waterproof rain jacket with a hood to handle those quick tropical downpours. (Skip the umbrella—it’s a hassle and unnecessary!)
Other Packing Musts for Big Island Travel:
- Reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life while snorkeling or swimming.
- Comfortable water shoes/sandals for rocky beaches and tide pools.
- A dry bag for keeping electronics and valuables safe during boat tours or beach days.
- A compact daypack for hikes and day trips.
- Bug spray for rainforest areas, especially in Hilo and around waterfalls.
If you’re planning to visit Mauna Kea, where it actually snows, you’ll need heavier layers. Luckily, most tour companies provide warm gear, so you don’t have to cram bulky jackets into your luggage. Be sure to check with the tour operator before you go.
4. choose the best stay for you
Your experience on the Big Island will vary depending on where you stay. While we love making Kona our home base, every part of the island offers something different.
Consider what kind of trip you want:
- For a more secluded stay: Consider Captain Cook or other South Kona spots. You’ll get peace, privacy, and a more local feel while still being close enough to Kona for activities, supplies, and places to eat.
- For a resort experience: The Waikoloa area is packed with luxury resorts, golf courses, and high-end shopping. We like to visit for a nice dinner or shopping, but it lacks some of the local Hawaiian culture we enjoy and want to have during our trip.
- For a lush, tropical setting: Hilo is your best bet. The landscape is jungle-like, thanks to its 130 inches of annual rainfall. It’s less crowded and has easy access to rainforests, waterfalls, and Volcanoes National Park.
- For a balance of local and touristy vibes: Kailua-Kona offers a mix of touristy fun and local charm, with easy beach access and plenty of dining options. Plus, did I mention how perfect the weather is in Kona?!
Also, consider the time of year you’re traveling. Big Island travel is busiest around Christmas, New Year’s, and summer vacation months. If you want fewer crowds, we’ve found April and November to be ideal times to visit.
Timing matters tip
The Big Island hosts the Ironman World Championship every other year, bringing a big surge of visitors in early October. If you’re not there for the race, check the dates—it can affect your plans and overall vacation experience, and you might want to rethink the timing of your trip.
5. Book Accommodations Early
According to Big Island Now, the Big Island’s occupancy rate hovers around 67%, which means accommodations fill up fast—especially vacation rentals. If you’re even thinking about visiting, book something refundable sooner rather than later.
When choosing a place to stay:
- Read reviews! They’re invaluable for understanding amenities and potential quirks.
- Consider location—staying within walking distance of a beach or downtown Kona can make for less hassle and more time enjoying your trip.
- Plan for parking. Some areas can be tricky, especially near popular beaches.
One Visit Is Never Enough
The Big Island travel offers the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and tropical beauty. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, lounging on a black sand beach, or savoring fresh poke by the ocean, it is a place that sticks with you. Each time we visit, we fall more in love with its unique landscapes and laid-back vibe.
The best part? You don’t have to rush through everything. The Big Island rewards slow travel—whether that means lingering over a sunset or taking an impromptu detour down a scenic coastal road. No matter how many times we go, there’s always more to discover, and that’s why we keep coming back.
If you’re planning a trip, take these tips to heart and make it your own.
Do some research, create a loose itinerary, but leave room for spontaneity—some of our best experiences happened when we strayed from the plan!
I hope this guide helps you prepare for your Big Island Travel adventures. And if you have any questions, leave a comment below or send me a note with your favorite Big Island spots or any tips you’ve got!
With joy,
Bri
