Swim with manta rays, visit a Hawaiian black sand beach and hike over lava fields on this amazing 5-day Big Island itinerary.
If you’re considering a trip to the Big Island in Hawaii, you’re in the right place! I have such happy memories of my travels on this exotic paradise. It’s a place where tropical birds sweep through the skies, big waves lap black sandy bays and lava spews through volcanic landscapes. It’s ideal for adventurous types who get bored easily!
Hawaii’s Big Island combines the luxurious feel of Maui with the wild and rugged adventures of Kauai. I mean, where else in the world can you visit a black sand beach, a fiery volcano and an 80-foot waterfall all in one day?!
In this guide, I’m going to share my ultimate 5-day Big Island Itinerary. Let’s face it, with just 5 days, you’ll want to make every second count! From national parks to pretty beaches, I’ll give you a quick overview of all the most popular activities and places to visit on the Big Island.
The Ultimate 5-day Big Island Itinerary
Check out the Volcanoes at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
One of the best things to do on the Big Island is to visit Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. This was a huge highlight of my time in Hawaii! It’s such an amazing place!
This massive park located southwest of Hilo is home to some of the world’s most active volcanoes. From scenic drives to backcountry hiking and camping, there’s plenty to do and see. You can even plan your holiday in time to view an actual eruption! Seeing nature’s power up close is something I’ll never forget.
Learn About Hawaiian Culture at Pu’uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture, there is no better place than Pu’uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park. This 180-acre national park was once the home of royal grounds and a safe haven for those that broke the Kapu laws. I’d recommend taking a self-guided tour here to really explore all the cultural sites!
Visit the Unique Black Sand Beaches
Want to try something new and exciting on your Hawaiian adventure? Then try visiting some of the Big Island’s famous black sandy beaches!
These beaches are formed from volcanic materials and lava fragments that give the sand its black hue. Some of the most popular black sand beaches on the Big Island include Punaluu Beach, Pohoiki Beach and Kaimu Beach.
Be amazed by the waterfalls at Akaka Falls State Park
If you’re planning to spend 5 days on the Big Island, don’t miss out on the wild and rugged Akaka Falls State Park! Where else can you explore two beautiful Hawaiian waterfalls on one short hike?
On this half mile hike, you’ll be able to spot both the 100-foot Kahuna Falls and arguably the most famous waterfall in Hawaii, the towering Akaka Falls. It’s not to be missed!
Take a Stroll through the Thurston Lava Tube
This is a great option if you have a sense of adventure! Visiting Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube) gives you the chance to hike through a 500-year-old lava tube. It’s hard to believe that a river of lava over 1000°C / 2000°F once flowed here!
On this 1.5-mile, round-trip hike, you’ll also get to walk through a lush rainforest and see a variety of local Hawaiian wildlife and flora. Just be sure to bring a torch so you can see the way!
Go swimming with Manta Rays
If you’re a water baby, swimming with manta rays may well be the highlight of your Big Island holiday! The Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour allows you to discover the majestic manta rays off the Kona Coast. It’s an amazing and unforgettable experience that gets you up close and personal with Hawaii’s beautiful oceans and wildlife!
Take a Tour of Kona Brewing Company
The Kona Brewing Company is one of the most sustainable breweries in the world. This small, family-owned brewery offers an amazing collection of local island craft beers.
For craft beer connoisseurs, I’d recommend booking a brewery tour. You’ll enjoy an in-depth look at the brewing process and a delicious tasting session at the end of the tour. These tours are really popular, so be sure to book in advance!
Take Time to Smell the Flowers at the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden
One of the most relaxing and romantic things to do on the Big Island is to visit the botanical gardens. Here you can stroll along a stunning, one mile trail lined with thousands of rare and endangered plants and flora. It’s truly a magical place filled with pretty stone paths and bridges, bubbling streams and several waterfalls.
Hike to the Pololū Valley Lookout
Are you looking for the best views on the Big Island? You simply have to visit the Pololū Valley Lookout.
You’ll find this trek on the northeastern coastline where the island’s black lava landscapes give way to lush, green pastures. While you can drive to the end of highway 270 to reach the outlook, you’ll be missing out on all the beautiful sights along the way!
Enjoy a Tasty Meal at the Kohala Coffee Mill
Located in historic Hawi, the Kohala Coffee Mill is a cosy cafe that serves up world-class coffee, delicious meals and tasty desserts. It’s the perfect place for everything from juicy burgers and sandwiches to coffees, fresh lemonade and homemade ice cream. On top of the fantastic home-style food, this hidden gem hosts local musicians all year round too! It’s such a lovely spot – don’t miss it.
Take a Tour of Historic Kona
Home to shops, restaurants and a vibrant nightlife, Kona is the capital of the Big Island! It’s filled with a rich history and many historic sites including the Huliheʻe Palace, the former Hawaiian royal palace.
If you’re spending 5 days on The Big Island, consider travelling to the Kona coast too. There you can check out the historic site that marks the spot where Captain James Cook first set foot on the island in 1778!
Visit the Captain Cook Monument
While you can visit the historic spot where Captain Cook first landed in Hawaii, you can also visit the location where he met his untimely end. The Captain Cook Monument is a 27-foot obelisk that marks the spot where Captain Cook and some members of his crew perished. The monument is quite difficult to reach so you’ll either need to travel by boat or go on a 2.5-hour hike.
Go Swimming at Rainbow Falls
One of the most adventurous things to do on the Big Island is to go swimming at Rainbow Falls. This broad waterfall is located right within Hilo town making it easy to visit.
While Rainbow Falls itself is not officially safe for swimming, people do swim in the pools (at their own risk!) in the river above Rainbow Falls, but only when the river is calm and the weather is dry. Be careful!
Visit the Dormant Volcano Mauna Kea
If you’re spending 5 days on The Big Island, be sure to visit Mauna Kea. This is a dormant volcano that last erupted around 4,000 years ago. It’s also home to the world’s largest observatory.
On the weekends, the Visitor Information Centre offers fun and informative guided tours to the volcano’s summit. It’s also one of the best places in the world for stargazing and has its own observatory. When I visited, I saw some of the brightest stars I’ve ever seen!
Take a Lovely Drive Down South Point Road
This winding road is really fun to drive and filled with beautiful sights along the way. The road ends at South Point with its unique green sand beaches.
The sand there gets an interesting green shade from mineral olivine which erodes from the nearby Mauna Loa volcano. If you’re feeling bold, the giant, 50-foot cliffs that look out over the Pacific Ocean are popular for cliff jumping! I’m not sure I’d ever be brave enough for that!
8 Practical Tips For Visiting The Big Island in Hawaii
- Rent a Car: The Big Island is… well, big! To explore all it has to offer, renting a car is highly recommended. There’s a lot of ground to cover, from the lush rainforests to the volcanic landscapes, so having your own wheels is a must.
- Pack for Diverse Weather: The island’s various microclimates mean you can experience different weather in one day. Pack a range of clothing, including light and breathable attire for the beaches and hiking, as well as layers for cooler elevations or rainy days.
- Plan Ahead for Volcanoes National Park: If you’re interested in visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, check the park’s website for current conditions and closures. The volcanic activity can affect accessibility, so it’s essential to stay informed.
- Respect the ‘Aina (Land): Hawaiians have a deep connection to their land. Be respectful of the environment and culture. Stay on designated paths, don’t touch or remove anything from the lava fields, and follow the “Leave No Trace” principles.
- Snorkel and Dive Responsibly: The Big Island offers incredible snorkeling and diving opportunities. Respect the marine life and coral reefs by not touching or disturbing them. Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate ecosystems.
- Explore the Local Food Scene: Try the local cuisine! From traditional Hawaiian dishes like poke and plate lunches to fresh tropical fruits, the Big Island has a vibrant food scene. Don’t miss out on the farmers’ markets either.
- Watch for Wildlife: Keep an eye out for wildlife, especially while driving. The island is home to various animals, including the endangered nene goose. Drive cautiously and avoid disturbing animals on the roads.
- Book Accommodations in Advance: The Big Island can get crowded during peak tourist seasons. To secure the best accommodations, book well in advance, especially if you plan to stay in popular areas like Kona or Hilo.
Remember to embrace the laid-back island vibe and take your time exploring all the natural wonders and cultural treasures that the Big Island has to offer.
I hope my 5 day Big Island itinerary helps you to plan the ultimate Hawaiian holiday! This is a very special island, unlike anywhere in the world. I loved my time there, and I hope you will too!
While the Big Island is an absolute must-see for any trip to the Aloha State, there are plenty of other beautiful Hawaiian islands worth visiting too. I’ve rounded up all the islands in this post, so you can find which offers what you’re looking for!
If you’re looking for more Hawaii travel tips, do check out my guide on how to have the ultimate adventure in Hawaii and my recommendations of the top things to do on your first visit to Hawaii.
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