Hawai’i is a traveler’s paradise! There are so many islands to discover and explore. Here are the Top Ten Things to Do on The Big Island!
The Big Island of Hawai’i is the largest and youngest of the islands. It is steeped in history and tradition. From the lava fields in the west to the lush green rain forests in the east, this island packs a huge punch and does not disappoint!
This vacation was my second visit to the Big Island. Last time I was here, I was a bratty teenage girl only interested in sunbathing and shopping. I had no interest in seeing the beauty of this island. My husband spent weeks mapping out what to see and do. We like to travel off the beaten path to explore sites most tourists wouldn’t experience.
Ten Things to do on The Big Island
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
Big Island of Hawai’i is made up of five different volcanoes. It is home to the most active shield volcanoes in the world. Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is located in the Kilauea caldera. For years, visitors would come to see the lake of lava and awe at it’s magnificence. After the eruption of 2018, the lava receded into the crust. As of our visit, there was no active lava. However, it is rebuilding just under the surface. Many areas that were closed have re-opened. Stay vigilant by checking the NPS website and the visitor’s center to see what remains closed.
Several trails guide you through this geological wonder. This park takes you into the caldera to explore steam vents, sulphur banks and lava fields. The Devastation Trail is an easy 1 mile hike that guides you through the lava fountains from the 1959 eruption. You can still find Pele’s Tears alongside the trail. The Steam Vents and Sulphur Banks are also easy hikes where you can marvel at the steam and sulphur arising from this active volcano.
The Thurston Lava Tubes (one of the most popular destinations in the park) are closed as of the writing of this post, however, they are working to implement safety recommendations and hope to have it re-opened soon. No worries, there are other lava tubes to explore around the island and they are one of our favorite spots!
The Chain of Craters Drive is a spectacular 22 mile drive that reveals the constant change of an active volcano. It begins at the Lua Mana crater and ends at the Holei Sea Arch. The sea arch is probably one of the coolest things I have ever seen.
Remember if you have kids to check out the Junior Ranger Program! You can learn more about that HERE!
Tip: The park is at 4000 foot elevation and therefore is about 15-20 degrees cooler than at sea level. Be prepared by bring pants and a jacket.