HAWAIʻI ISLAND - THE BIG ISLAND
Why Visit Hawaiʻi Island?
Hawaiʻi Island, nicknamed the Big Island, is the youngest of the Hawaiian Islands. Covered in volcanic rock and home to the world’s tallest mountain and 11 of 13 climate zones, visitors can see waterfalls, snow and flowing lava all in one day. For those looking to escape the traffic and noise of a bustling city and reconnect with nature, Hawaiʻi Island is the place.
Featured Stays on Hawaiʻi Island
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2hr Sacred Spa Immersion
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Your Hawai‘i Island Guide
Luxury Awaits - Explore the Big Island with Kailani Tours
Choosing a luxury tour to guide your expedition is not only a more comfortable way to travel, it’s the only way to ensure you’re getting...
Hiking Hawaiʻi Island
Aptly dubbed the Big Island, Hawai‘i Island’s vast, diverse terrain offers a variety of trails for both avid and fair-weather hikers. With multiple microclimates and secluded sites, you’ll see and experience things possible only on foot.
A Guide to Hawaiʻi Island Airports
When visiting Hawaiʻi Island, also known as Big Island, visitors have two primary airports to choose from — the international airport in Kona (KOA), on the west side, or Hilo’s smaller airport (ITO). Which should you choose?
Shopping on Hawai'i Island
Our favorite shops and shopping centers on the east and west sides of Hawaiʻi Island.
20 Best Things to do on Hawaiʻi Island
Our top 20 things to do on Hawaiʻi Island list includes witnessing an active volcano up close, snorkeling with manta rays, and welcoming the sun from a canoe.
Explore Hawai‘i Island
Accommodations on Hawaiʻi Island
Where to Stay in Hilo: Aloha Falls Retreat Review
A waterfall property in Hilo offers personalized retreats including massage, yoga and farm-to-table meals for couples, or small groups, in need of a reset.
Where to Stay in Kailua-Kona: King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel Review
Best for anyone looking for action and excitement in Kona that's also affordable. Come to celebrate a birthday or a bachelorette party. Come for an event. Bring the kids!
Where to stay in Waikoloa: Fairmont Orchid
At the Fairmont Orchid, part of the Mauna Lani Resort on Hawai'i Island’s Kohala Coast, a local travel writer finds classic luxury and Hawaiian culture.
Where to Stay on a Budget: Kona
Hawaiʻi Island certainly has its share of high-priced accommodations, especially on the Kona side of the island, however you can also find several options under $300 a night, allowing you to spend more on island adventures. Here are some ideas to get your planning started.
Best Hotels for Families: Hawaiʻi Island
As a family of four (and sometimes a family of five when our niece joins us), we’ve had the opportunity to stay in all of these family-friendly hotels and resorts. They have made our family vacations not only memorable, but also welcoming and comfortable.
Featured Hawaiʻi Island Hotels
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Castle Waimea Country Lodge
$197 / night avg
See availability →
Paniolo Greens At Waikoloa
$226 / night avg
See availability →
Mahana House Country Inn
$278 / night avg
See availability →
Volcano Village Estates
$381 / night avg
See availability →Average nightly rate for a 3-night stay in December, two guests. Prices change with your dates.
Eat + Drink Hawai‘i Island
Best Lūʻau on Hawaiʻi Island
Formerly known as a pāʻina or ʻahaʻaina, the lūʻau is among the islands’ most joyous occasions for visitors and locals alike. Not only is it a feast for the ages—we’re talking local-style chow like kālua pig, poi, huli huli chicken and laulau—but it is also a place of learning and culture. While the flashy fire...
The Best Kona Coffee Tours in Hawai‘i
Learn why Kona coffee Hawaii is a sought-after brew, famed for its exceptional taste and grown in Hawaii's prime coffee region.
Hawaiʻi Regional Cuisine
Twelve Hawaii chefs established the culinary movement Hawaii Regional Cuisine in 1991 to showcase ethnic flavors with local ingredients; it's going strong.
Parker Ranch: A Journey Through Heritage on the Big Island
Discover the enchanting Parker Ranch in Waimea on Hawaiʻi Island, home to the paniolo lifestyle.
Must-See Spots Around Hawai‘i Island
How to Spend a Day at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
Plan your visit to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Discover thrilling adventures and natural wonders waiting for you in this beautiful park.
Black Sand Beaches in Hawaiʻi
Explore Hawaiʻi’s famous black sand beaches with our expert tips on where to go, accessibility, ocean conditions, and important safety considerations.
Discover Hawaiʻi Island Through These 10 Museums
Learn Hawaiian history, culture and discover what makes Hawaiʻi Island so special from a variety of small community-run museums across the island.
Waipio Valley: Hawaiʻi’s Sacred Valley of the Kings
Explore Waipiʻo Valley — the “Valley of the Kings” on Hawaiʻi Island. This guide covers the cultural history, access restrictions, tours...