Exploring the Big Island of Hawaii is unlike any other journey in the Pacific Ocean. Officially known as the Island of Hawaii, this landmass is a vast, evolving tapestry of geological wonders and deep-rooted cultural heritage. For the curious traveler, the question of what to do on the Big Island is best answered through the lens of immersion. Beyond the typical tropical vacation, tourism here is an invitation to engage with the “Spirit of Aloha,” understand the volatile power of Earth, and savor the unique flavors of a diverse island community.
Cultural Roots and the Spirit of Aloha
To truly understand the Big Island, one must begin with its history. This island was the birthplace of King Kamehameha I, the legendary leader who unified the Hawaiian Islands. Tourism on the island is deeply intertwined with preserving and sharing this royal legacy and the ancient traditions of the Polynesian settlers who first arrived here over a thousand years ago.
Sacred Sites and Royal History
A visit to Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, once a place of refuge for ancient Hawaiian lawbreakers, offers a profound look into the social and religious structures of the past. Walking through the grounds, you will encounter meticulously restored “heiau” (temples) and “ki’i” (wooden images of gods) that guard the sacred site. The park provides a quiet, reflective atmosphere where visitors can learn about the “kapu” system of laws that once governed every aspect of life.
In the heart of Kailua-Kona, the Hulihe’e Palace stands as a testament to the Hawaiian monarchy’s later years. Once a summer home for royalty, it now serves as a museum showcasing Victorian-era furniture made from native “koa” wood and personal artifacts of the kings and queens. Nearby, the Moku’aikaua Church, the oldest Christian church in Hawaii, represents the cultural shifts that occurred with the arrival of missionaries in the early 19th century.
Festivals and the Living Arts
Cultural tourism is perhaps most vibrant during the Merrie Monarch Festival in Hilo. This week-long celebration of hula and Hawaiian culture draws performers and spectators from around the world. Unlike the commercialized hula often seen at resorts, the performances at the Edith Kanaka’ole Stadium are a deeply serious art form, telling stories of genealogy, mythology, and the natural world.
Throughout the year, local “halau” (hula schools) and artisans keep traditional practices alive. Visitors can participate in workshops to learn the art of “lei” making, “lauhala” weaving, or even play the “ukulele”. Engaging with these local artists provides a deeper appreciation for the patience and respect for nature inherent in Hawaiian craftsmanship.
A Taste of the Big Island: Culinary Tourism
The Big Island is an agricultural powerhouse, producing everything from high-altitude coffee to tropical fruits and grass-fed beef. For the food-focused tourist, the island offers a “farm-to-fork” experience that is as diverse as its microclimates.
The Kona Coffee Belt and Agritourism
One of the most essential activities is exploring the Kona Coffee belt. Located on the slopes of Hualalai and Mauna Loa, this narrow strip of land possesses the perfect combination of volcanic soil, elevation, and afternoon cloud cover to produce some of the world’s most sought-after beans. Many family-owned farms in Holualoa offer tours where you can walk through the orchards, witness the milling process, and sample different roasts.
Beyond coffee, the island’s agritourism scene includes visits to vanilla farms in Pa’auilo and cacao plantations that produce world-class Hawaiian chocolate. These tours highlight the island’s transition from the era of massive sugar plantations to a more sustainable, diversified agricultural model.
Farmers Markets and Local Staples
To eat like a local, a trip to the Hilo Farmers Market is mandatory. Here, the air is thick with the scent of “rambutan”, “lychee”, and “longan”. You can find local delicacies like “spam musubi”, fresh “poke”, and “kulolo” (a dessert made from taro and coconut milk).
The southern part of the island is home to the Punalu’u Bake Shop, the southernmost bakery in the United_States. It is famous for its traditional Hawaiian sweet bread and “malasadas”—Portuguese-style doughnuts that have become a staple of Hawaii tourism culture. For those seeking a hearty meal, the town of Waimea offers the famous “paniolo” (Hawaiian cowboy) steak, sourced from the nearby Parker Ranch.
Immersive Activities: From Volcanic Peaks to Oceanic Depths
The Big Island is a playground for those who seek to connect with the raw forces of nature. From the heights of snow-capped mountains to the glowing vents of active volcanoes, the activities here are both thrilling and educational.
Witnessing Earth’s Creation at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
The crown jewel of Big Island tourism is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Home to Kilauea, one of the most active volcanoes on the planet, the park offers a rare chance to see land being created. Visitors can drive along the Chain of Craters Road, which winds through prehistoric lava fields and ends where past flows have covered the pavement.
For a unique subterranean experience, the Thurston Lava Tube, or “Nahuku”, allows you to walk through a massive tunnel formed by ancient rivers of molten rock. At night, the glow from the Halema’uma’u Crater often paints the sky in shades of orange and red, providing a humbling reminder of the island’s volcanic origins and the presence of Pele, the volcano goddess of Hawaiian legend.
Celestial Exploration on Mauna Kea
While the volcanoes represent the earth below, Mauna Kea represents the heavens above. Standing at over 13,000 feet above sea level, the summit of this dormant volcano is home to the world’s most sophisticated astronomical observatories, including the Keck Observatory and the Subaru Telescope.
Tourism to the summit usually involves a sunset viewing, where the clouds sit far below the peak, followed by stargazing at the Onizuka Center for International Astronomy. Because the Big Island has strict light pollution laws, the clarity of the night sky is unparalleled, offering a view of the Milky Way that few places on Earth can match.
Coastal Wonders and Marine Conservation
The waters surrounding the Big Island are a sanctuary for diverse marine life. One of the most famous tourist activities is the Manta Ray Night Snorkel. Using high-powered lights to attract plankton, tour operators allow participants to float on the surface while massive Manta Rays glide and somersault just inches away. It is a graceful and otherworldly encounter that emphasizes the importance of ocean conservation.
For those who prefer daylight exploration, Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park is a premier snorkeling destination. The bay is home to a vibrant coral reef system and the Captain Cook Monument, which marks the spot where the British explorer Captain James Cook met his end in 1779. Spinner dolphins are frequently seen resting in the bay’s calm waters, though local guidelines require visitors to maintain a respectful distance to protect these animals.
Practical Guidance for the Conscious Traveler
Tourism on the Big Island comes with a responsibility to the environment and the local community. The island’s vastness means that planning and respect for local customs are essential for a successful trip.
Environmental Stewardship and the Pono Pledge
Hawaii has pioneered many environmental protections, and visitors are encouraged to take the Pono Pledge. This is a commitment to travel respectfully, safely, and mindfully. This includes using reef-safe sunscreen, which is mandated by state law to protect the fragile coral ecosystems from harmful chemicals.
When visiting beaches like Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, it is common to see Green Sea Turtles, known locally as “Honu”, basking in the sun. It is vital to stay at least 10 feet away from these protected creatures. Similarly, when hiking in remote areas like Waipio Valley, tourists should be mindful of private property and the sacred nature of the valley to the Hawaiian people.
Navigating Logistics and Island Geography
The Big Island is roughly the size of Connecticut, and its diverse geography means that weather can change drastically in a short drive. The Kohala Coast on the west side is generally sunny and dry, making it ideal for beach days at Hapuna Beach State Park. In contrast, the Hamakua Coast and Hilo receive significant rainfall, resulting in lush tropical rainforests and spectacular waterfalls like Akaka Falls State Park and Rainbow Falls.
Travelers should plan for long drive times. The Saddle Road, which connects Kona and Hilo through the high plateau between Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, offers breathtaking scenery but requires a reliable vehicle and attention to changing visibility. By understanding the island’s unique rhythms and respecting its natural boundaries, visitors can ensure that their impact on this extraordinary place is as positive as the memories they take home.
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