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Recommended things to do on the Big Island
Stargazing at the Mauna Kea summit
Witness sunset from nearly 14,000 ft and experience one of the clearest night skies on Earth. This tour combines high-altitude views, access to world-class observatories, and telescope viewing under pristine skies.
Pro tip: Arrive well-rested. High elevation can be tiring, but the views are absolutely worth it.
Recommended experience:
- Big Island: Maunakea Summit & Stars Tour
Birdwatching at Hakalau Forest
Step into one of Hawaii’s most protected rainforests, home to rare honeycreepers found nowhere else on the planet. Learn about conservation, Hawaiian ecology, and bird species that thrive in these ancient canopies.
Pro tip: Bring binoculars, even if you're not a birder; the sightings here convert many first-timers into lifelong enthusiasts.
Recommended experience:
- Big Island: Hakalau Forest Birdwatching Tour
Tree-to-bar chocolate making & volcano exploration
This one-of-a-kind tour blends volcanic landscapes, artisan chocolate tasting, and lush waterfall viewpoints. It's the perfect balance of geology, storytelling, and local flavors.
Pro tip: Wear comfortable shoes, as the itinerary includes a mix of factory visits, short walks, and scenic stops.
Recommended experience:
- Big Island: Volcano, Chocolate & Waterfall Tour
Hiking to hidden craters
Walk through native forests, stand at the rim of massive volcanic craters, and explore a naturally formed lava tube on the slopes of Hualālai. This exclusive-access hike avoids crowds while still delivering dramatic landscapes.
Pro tip: This trail can be uneven; trekking poles help, and guides provide them.
Recommended experience:
- Hidden Craters Hike
Enjoy at Kohala waterfalls
Journey through private lands in North Kohala to discover ancient valleys, rainforest trails, and multiple waterfalls you can admire up close.
Pro tip: Wear water shoes if you want to get your feet wet near the falls.
Recommended experience:
- Big Island: Kohala Waterfalls Tour
Kohala canopy ziplining
Soar between giant trees on 8 ziplines and 6 sky bridges inside a private forest reserve. Designed with “tree-to-tree” transitions, you skip the stairs and keep the adrenaline flowing.
Pro tip: Bring a GoPro or rent one on-site; this is one of the best zipline courses on the island.
Recommended experience:
- Big Island: Kohala Canopy Zipline Tickets
Waterfalls + zipline experience in Kohala
A full-day blend of ziplining, off-roading, nature hiking, and swimming beneath a private waterfall. This is a Big Island adventure at its fullest.
Pro tip: Pack a swimsuit and a light jacket; weather conditions can shift quickly in Kohala.
Recommended experience:
- Big Island: Kohala Waterfalls and Canopy Zip & Dip Tour
Watch lava & explore volcanoes
When conditions allow, the Big Island offers rare opportunities to witness volcanic glow, steam vents, or fresh lava entering the ocean within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Pro tip: Lava visibility changes daily; check park updates before you go.
Recommended experience:
- Big Island: Volcano, Chocolate & Waterfall Tour
- Hidden Craters Hike
Snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay
Home to spinner dolphins and vibrant coral reefs, this bay offers some of the clearest waters on the island for snorkeling and kayaking.
Pro tip: Morning visits offer the calmest waters and best visibility.
Relax at Hapuna Beach
One of Hawaii’s best white-sand beaches, Hapuna is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply unwinding between adventures.
Pro tip: Arrive early; parking fills up fast on weekends.
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Frequently asked questions about things to do on the Big Island
What are the must-do experiences on the Big Island?
The most iconic experiences include stargazing on Mauna Kea, visiting Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, chasing waterfalls in Kohala, snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay, exploring lava fields, hiking scenic trails, and enjoying canopy ziplining adventures.
Is the Big Island good for adventure activities?
Yes, it's Hawaii’s ultimate adventure island. You can zipline, hike volcanic craters, trek to hidden waterfalls, stargaze at world-class elevations, and explore rugged lava landscapes all in one trip.
Can I see active lava on the Big Island?
Lava visibility changes often depending on volcanic activity inside Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Book the Volcano, Chocolate & Waterfall Tour for the best experience.
What’s the best way to experience Mauna Kea?
The safest and most informative way is through the Mauna Kea Summit & Stars Tour, which includes altitude acclimatization, summit access, sunset viewing, and expert-led stargazing with telescopes.
Are the hikes on the Big Island difficult?
The island offers a range of experiences, from easy coastal walks to moderate routes like the Hidden Craters Hike and challenging volcanic trails within the national park. Guided hikes are available for a safer and more informative experience.
Where can I see wildlife on the Big Island?
Book the Hakalau Forest Birdwatching Tour that takes you to Hakalau Forest Reserve for rare native birds, tide pools for marine life, or the Kona coast for manta rays and seasonal dolphins. Birdwatching tours are the best option for guaranteed sightings.
What are the best family-friendly things to do?
Families love ziplining, easy waterfalls walks, beach days, chocolate farm visits, astronomy experiences, and cultural stops around Kona and Hilo.
Do I need a car to explore the island?
A car makes exploring much easier due to the long distances between attractions. However, the guided tours offer transportation from key pickup points in Kona and Waikoloa.
What’s the best time to do outdoor activities on the Big Island?
Mornings typically offer the calmest weather and clearest skies. Tours operate year-round, but visibility, rainfall, and volcano conditions can vary by season.
Are guided tours recommended?
Yes, many of the island’s best spots, such as Hakalau Forest, private waterfalls, and Mauna Kea, are only accessible through licensed guides. Tours also provide cultural insight, safety, and stress-free transportation.
