Big Island Itinerary
Here’s a 7-day itinerary for an unforgettable trip to the Big Island of Hawaii, balancing adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. Each day is designed to maximize your experience without feeling rushed.
Day 1: Arrival & Kona Exploration
Base: Kailua-Kona
- Arrive at Kona International Airport
- Pick up rental car (essential on the Big Island)
- Check in to your hotel/resort in Kailua-Kona
- Explore Ali’i Drive: shops, historic sites, and oceanfront cafes
- Visit Hulihe’e Palace and Mokuaikaua Church
- Sunset dinner at Huggo’s or Magic’s Beach Grill
Optional: Grab a fresh poke bowl or shaved ice from a local spot
Day 2: Coffee Country & Snorkeling
Base: Kailua-Kona
- Morning tour at a Kona Coffee farm (e.g., Greenwell Farms or Hula Daddy)
- Visit Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park (Place of Refuge)
- Afternoon snorkeling at Two Step or Kealakekua Bay
- Dinner in Captain Cook or back in Kona
Optional: Night manta ray snorkel/dive from Kona (incredible experience)
Day 3: Mauna Kea Stargazing
Base: Waimea or Kona
- Late breakfast, then head north to explore Waimea town
- Stop at Waipi’o Valley Lookout
- Visit Hāmākua Coast waterfalls: Akaka Falls and Rainbow Falls
- Early dinner in Hilo or Waimea
- Evening stargazing at Mauna Kea Visitor Center (arrive by sunset)
Note: Summit access requires 4WD and acclimatization; stay at the visitor center if unsure.
Day 4: Volcanoes National Park
Base: Volcano or Hilo
- Early drive to Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
- Hike Kīlauea Iki Trail and explore Thurston Lava Tube
- Visit Jaggar Museum and Kīlauea Overlook
- If lava is active, go for an evening viewing!
- Overnight in Volcano Village or Hilo
Tip: Dress in layers – it’s cooler at elevation
Day 5: Hilo & Surrounds
Base: Hilo
- Visit Liliuokalani Gardens and Coconut Island
- Stop at Big Island Candies for treats
- Explore Panaʻewa Rainforest Zoo (free admission)
- Take a scenic drive to Onomea Bay Trail and the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden
- Dinner in Hilo – try Café Pesto or Moon & Turtle
Day 6: South Point & Black Sand Beaches
Base: Kona or Volcano (heading back west)
- Visit Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach – look for sea turtles
- Detour to South Point, the southernmost point in the U.S.
- Hike to Green Sand Beach (Papakōlea) – 2.5 miles each way or hire a local shuttle
- Return to Kona via the scenic southern coast
Optional: Stop at the southernmost bakery in the U.S. – Punaluʻu Bake Shop
Day 7: Beach Day & Departure
Base: Kailua-Kona
- Relax at Hapuna Beach or Mauna Kea Beach
- Optional snorkeling at Kikaua Point or Kua Bay
- Last-minute shopping at Kona Farmers Market
- Return rental car, depart from Kona Airport
Additional Tips
- Car rental: A must for the Big Island – consider a 4WD if you plan to access Mauna Kea summit or Green Sand Beach.
- Weather: Bring layers; Hilo and Volcano are cooler and wetter than Kona.
- Safety: Observe all ocean warnings and hiking advisories.
