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There is a very good reason why Hawaii is known as the ‘Paradise of the Pacific. Its sheer beauty of the majestic volcanoes, sublime beaches, and national parks are some of the key highlights that entice many travelers. In addition, Hawaii is home to some of the best places to snorkel and surf. The Hawaiian archipelago is made up of 137 volcanic islands among which Big Island is the youngest and largest one. The Big Island is the go-to place to visit if one is looking for impressive beaches, think green and jet-black beaches, then there are the misty valleys, and of course, the emerald cliffs-all of which are simply breathtaking.
Visit Stunning Beaches On Big Island
Start a rather relaxing holiday lounging at the stunning beaches that this island has to offer. From white to black and even green beaches are available here. The white sandy beach of Makalawena is a recommended place to unwind on the sand, and enjoy the soothing warmth of the sun. Close to the beach lies the Kekaha Kai State Park. Take a 20-minute walk at the old lava field and discover the vibrant marine life by snorkeling. But if one is looking for a unique beach then try Papakolea Beach (Pu'u o Mahana), which is one of the green beaches in the world. The olive-colored sand is really surreal. One can take the four-mile roundtrip hike to reach the beach which is located close to the South Point in the Kaʻū District. And those who wish to visit a jet-black beach can consider the Punaluu lined up by coconut palm trees. Visitors will also get the chance to meet the large honu here. These are the Hawaiian Green turtles.
- White Beach: Makalawena Beach
- Black Beach: Punaluu Beach
- Green Beach: Papakolea Beach
Stargaze At The Mauna Kea Volcano
Tucked in the north-central part of the Big Island, the majestic Mauna Kea is a dormant volcano known to be the second-highest volcano peak on Earth. Its highest point reaches 14,000 feet, but technically the volcano measures 33, 484 feet compared to Mount Everest which is 29,029 feet. However, most of the volcano’s height is submerged below sea level, thus making it 4000 feet taller than Mount Everest.
Mauna Kea last erupted about 4500 years ago, and it has a special place among the local Hawaiians. Visitors can also take a tour of the visitor’s center to learn more about the volcano and the Mauna Kea Observatory which has one of the best telescopes. It’s a great place to watch the meteor shower.
- Elevation: 13802 feet
- How To Get Here: To reach the summit one will need to drive a 4WD car with excellent driving skills and planning. But most visitors prefer to book a tour to enjoy the starry sky.
Visit Akaka Waterfall
If waterfalls are the kind of things that one wants to explore on the Big Island then think of the Akaka Falls, which plummets about 442 feet into a stream-eroded gorge. This iconic waterfall is situated 11 miles north of Hilo right in a state park. The park consists of another waterfall which is the 100-foot Kahuna Falls. Visitors can take the 0.4-mile uphill hike which leads to a green sanctuary of rainforest, wild orchids, and bamboo groves. The hike can take up to an hour and is easily accessible.
- Location: Akaka Falls Road, Honomu, Hawaii
- Entrance Fee: $5 per person and $10 to park
Take A Tour At The Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden
Nature lovers who wish to explore the plant kingdom on Big Island can visit the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden which is home to about 2000 species of tropical plants. This green attraction is set between Hilo and the Waipio Valley close to the Hamakua Coast Scenic Drive. The garden extends about 40 acres of terrain composed of resplendent gardens, wandering paths, deep ravines, and secluded valleys. It’s simply the place to take impressive pictures. There is an observation walkway as well, which overlooks an impressive view of the surroundings.
- Address: 27-717 Mamalahoa Hwy, Papaikou, Hawaii
- Entrance Fee: $25
Relish Local Cuisine On Big Island
The Big Island has a rich culture and ethnic diversity, which has influenced the local cuisine for sure. Visitors are pampered when it comes to sampling a diverse range of dishes made mostly with locally grown ingredients. For example, the Kona coffee is commercially produced and widely consumed on the island. Other crops that are locally produced are cacao and Macadamia nuts. The island also has typical dishes such as the ‘Poke Bowl’ made of rice, tuna, or salmon. The key ingredients are wasabi mayo, dragon aioli, and eel sauce.
One of the recommended restaurants is Merriman’s Big Island orchestrated by the talented chef Peter Merriman. Many prefer the lamb cooked with Waimea vegetables.
- Recommended Restaurant: Merriman’s Big Island
- Address: 65-1227 Opelo Rd B, Waimea, HI 96743, United States
- Opening Hours: 10:30 a.m - 2:00 p.m; 5:00 p.m - 8:30 p.m (Sunday - Thursday)