The Ideal Big Island Adventure: A Guide for Every Type of Traveler

March 12, 2024

Nestled in the heart of the Pacific, Hawaii’s Big Island beckons adventurers with its breathtaking landscapes, unique geological features, and rich cultural tapestry. This enchanting destination caters to various interests and preferences, making it an ideal playground for those seeking diverse experiences.

Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, nature enthusiast, or a cultural connoisseur, the Big Island has something special for you. Let’s explore some of the must-try activities that will make your Big Island adventure unforgettable!

1. Botanical Tours

Kickstart your adventure by strolling through the lush wonders of the Big Island’s botanical gardens. Botanical World Adventures offers a captivating experience with diverse plant life, vibrant flowers, and serene landscapes. The gardens are meticulously curated, showcasing a kaleidoscope of colors and textures, from exotic orchids to towering palms.

One highlight of the botanical tour is seeing plants that are endemic or indigenous to Hawaii. The gardens serve as a conservation effort, preserving and showcasing the extraordinary plant life that defines the island’s landscape. A guided tour offers fascinating anecdotes and trivia about the various species that thrive in this tropical paradise.

2. Volcanic Exploration

No Big Island adventure is complete without witnessing the raw power of its volcanoes! Venture into Hawaii Volcanoes National Park — a UNESCO World Heritage Site – showcasing the dynamic processes that shape the Hawaiian Islands.

Your journey begins at the rim of the Kīlauea Caldera, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. The ever-changing landscape is shaped by molten lava flows and is constantly evolving. Travel deep into the park to witness red-hot lava flows and the glow from active vents. Also, don’t forget to explore lava tubes like Nāhuku or Thurston Lava Tube! These sites offer a mesmerizing walk through cave-like passages adorned with unique rock formations.

Joining guided Big Island tours ensures your safety while gaining a wealth of knowledge about the landscape. Hear about the Hawaiian mythology surrounding Pele — the goddess of fire — and the ongoing scientific studies within the park!

3. Hiking Adventures

For those seeking an active escape, the Big Island offers an extensive network of hiking trails catering to all skill levels. Locations like the ʻAkaka Falls Loop and Pololū Valley Trail offer easy walks with breathtaking views, perfect for families or beginners. For more challenging terrains, the Kalalau Trail or the Mauna Kea Summit Trail leads through remote landscapes, offering panoramic vistas of the island’s topography.

While on your hike, enjoy the sight of picture-perfect waterfalls — like those along the Waipi’o Valley Rim Trail — offering tranquil spots to rest and recharge. You can also visit sites of ancient petroglyphs, providing a glimpse of the island’s rich history. For example, the Pu’uloa Petroglyphs Trail leads to an old lava field filled with thousands of intricate carvings made by the island’s natives.

4. Beach and Water Activities

One of the best things to do on the Big Island is enjoy its pristine beaches. With its golden sands and turquoise waters, Hāpuna Beach is a sunbather’s paradise. Spend beautiful lazy afternoons basking in the Hawaiian sun, building sandcastles, or enjoying a seaside picnic with your family.

These beaches are gateways to exciting water activities. Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Kealakekua Bay or Honaunau Bay for memorable snorkeling adventures amidst coral reefs and tropical fish. Anaeho’omalu Bay offers perfect conditions for paddleboarding with calm waters and scenic coastal views. For surfing enthusiasts, Honoli’i and Magic Sands Beach cater to various skill levels, with local surf schools ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

5. Ziplining and ATV Expeditions

For adrenaline enthusiasts visiting the Big Island, Botanical World Adventures offers an exhilarating way to experience the island’s diverse terrain! Soar through the treetops on our zipline courses, enjoying panoramic views of lush floras and scenic vistas. The courses may also include suspension bridges and elevated platforms, adding extra excitement to your aerial journey.

Alternatively, embark on an ATV adventure if you crave the excitement of off-road exploration. These excursions navigate rugged trails, showcasing volcanic landscapes, dense rainforests, and other natural wonders. Trained guides will lead you through paths often inaccessible by other means, revealing hidden corners of the island’s beauty.

6. Culinary Journeys

Delight your taste buds with the rich diversity of Hawaiian cuisine! Explore local shopping centers like the Hilo Farmers Market or Waimea Town Market. Here, you can sample fresh, tropical fruits like lilikoʻi (passion fruit), rambutan, or lychee.

Given its oceanfront location, you shouldn’t miss a seafood feast at coastal restaurants, savoring delicacies like poke, grilled ono, or macadamia nut-crusted mahi-mahi. Complete your culinary journey with a traditional Hawaiian lūʻau. This cultural feast comes alive with hula dances, music, and a lavish spread of Kālua pig, lomi lomi salmon, and poi.

7. Cultural Immersions

Beyond landscapes and activities, the Big Island beckons you into its rich cultural tapestry. Learn about the island’s history at sites like Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, offering insights into ancient Hawaiian life with reconstructed temples.

You can also engage in cultural workshops for hands-on experiences in Hawaiian arts! From lei-making to hula dance and ukulele lessons, skilled instructors share the significance of each art form, fostering a deeper appreciation of these traditions.

8. Wildlife Encounters

For wildlife enthusiasts, the Big Island offers unique encounters with marine life and exotic species. Join a boat tour to witness humpback whales, dolphins, and sea turtles in their natural habitat. Meanwhile, snorkeling excursions allow a closer look at diverse sea creatures navigating coral gardens beneath the waves.

The Big Island’s diverse landscapes also provide habitats for various bird species, some of which are found nowhere else on Earth. Explore the cloud forests of Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge to spot endangered honeycreepers like the ‘akiapola’au. In addition, try visiting the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where the native ‘io (Hawaiian hawk) soars above the volcanic craters.

Start Your Big Island Adventure at Botanical World Adventures

The Big Island has much to offer every tourist. If you’re wondering where to begin, start at Botanical World Adventures! Our comprehensive adventure hub provides a range of activities, from immersive botanical tours to heart-pounding zipline adventures. We have knowledgeable guides and well-planned itineraries to ensure your Big Island adventure begins with a perfect blend of education, excitement, and natural beauty.

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Big Island of Hawaii