The Ultimate Big Island Travel Guide
The Island of Hawaiʻi—better known as the "Big Island"—is more than just a destination; it is a world in miniature. From the snow-capped heights of Mauna Kea to the molten flows of Kīlauea and the lush rainforests of Hilo, this island offers a diversity found nowhere else on earth. Whether you are here for a week or a lifetime, this guide will help you navigate our home with respect, wonder, and the spirit of aloha.
The Lay of the Land: Our Regions
The Big Island is nearly twice the size of all other Hawaiian islands combined. Understanding the regions is the key to planning your stay.
The Kona Coast (West)
Sunny, rugged, and famous for its volcanic soil that produces world-class coffee. This is the heart of our historic seaside villages and the best place for sunsets and snorkeling.
The Kohala Coast (Northwest)
Home to some of the world's most renowned luxury resorts and white-sand beaches like Hapuna.
Hilo & The Hamakua Coast (East)
The "green side." Expect tropical rainforests, thundering waterfalls like Akaka Falls, and a slower, more old-school Hawaiian pace of life.
Volcano & Kaʻu (South)
Home to the powerful Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. This is a place of raw creation and deep cultural significance.
Local tip: Because the island is so vast, we recommend our Full-Day Circle Island Tour to see the highlights of every region without navigating the winding mountain roads yourself.
Must-See Highlights
- Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park — witness the ever-changing landscape of Kīlauea.
- Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach — one of the most famous black sand beaches in the world, often home to resting sea turtles.
- Hilo Big Island Candies — watch artisans hand-dip signature shortbread with locally grown macadamia nuts.
- Kona Coffee Country — visit high-elevation farms to taste why our coffee is world-renowned.
Live Volcano Status
We display the live Kīlauea alert level from the USGS Hawaiian Volcano Observatory on this page. For the latest, see the official USGS updates.