Top Destinations on the Island of Hawaii List

Use our realistic list of the Best Places to Visit on the Big Island to plan your next adventure in Hawaii.

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Hawaii, the 50th US state, has been in the Union since 1959. The Island of Hawaii is the largest in the archipelago. Thus, its nickname “The Big Island” gained traction.

The Big Island is home to 5 volcanoes. One of them, Mauna Loa, is the second largest volcano on the planet.

The island’s warm climate made it a magnet to the tourists from the mainland. The island has two international airports, one on each of its coasts. Both airport cities are home to several beach resorts and vacation properties. The tourists come to experience the island’s sights and Aloha spirit.

This Best Places to Visit on the Big Island List shares our views on the best beaches, snorkeling spots, and hiking trails.

Best Beaches

Most visitors enjoy at least one of the Big Island’s beaches. There are over 30 different beaches on the island. It might be overwhelming to pick between white, black, and green sand beaches.

Our Best Beaches on the Big Island List helps you narrow down your selection.

1. Papakōlea Green Sand Beach

Papakōlea claims the title of the Best Beach on the Big Island.

It might be a surprising choice since this green sand volcanic beach is hard to reach.

• First, you need to drive to the Southernmost Point on the island and in the US.
• Next, you have to drive a 4×4 high clearance vehicle or hike to cover the last 5.4 miles (8.7 km).
• Finally, you need to take a steep trail to the beach with no amenities.

Yet, these efforts are well worth a chance to spot whales while enjoying this beach. The ocean shore hike also puts Papakōlea on the list of the Best Hikes.

2. Hapuna Beach

Hapuna Beach is the best white sand beach on the island. Its low waves are perfect for families with kids. This beach features dressing rooms, restrooms, and showers.

However, Hapuna is not free to use. That is because this beach park is part of a State Recreation Area.

Non residents would need to pay both parking fees of $10 per vehicle and entrance fees of $5 per person. These fees add up quickly if you travel with a large group.

3. Pohoiki | Isaac Hale Beach Park

Pohoiki is the best black sand beach on the Island of Hawaii. You could also find this beach under the name of Isaac Hale Beach Park.

This volcanic black sand beach does not charge any usage fees. A scenic drive over the lava beds rounds up the experience.

We found Pohoiki to be a nicer beach than the nearby Kehena and Kaimū Black Sand Beaches. The beach’s fairly remote location far from the main highways is the only downside for a visit.

4. Punalu’u Black Sand Beach

One could easily question Punalu’u’s presence on this list. This beach is small and often crowded. The parking lot is right on the beach. There are no amenities to speak of.

But Punalu’u is a 2-minute drive from the Hawaii Belt Road (HI-11). As a result, it is a more accessible black sand beach alternative to Pohoiki. You have a chance to see turtles at this beach and taste malasadas at the nearby bakery.

All in all, these factors warrant Punalu’u’s place among the best beaches on the Big Island.

Best Snorkeling Spots

The Big Island is not a famous snorkeling destination. Nevertheless, there are several good locations for snorkeling on the island.

Continue on with our Best Places to Visit on the Big Island List to learn about the top spots.

1. Two Step Beach

The Two Step Beach is the best snorkeling spot on the Island of Hawaii. This beach has the most impressive coral reefs on the island. Besides, it is a perfect spot to observe fish and turtles in their natural habitat.

The Two Step has good depth for diving. Finally, this beach park is next door to Pu’uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park.

But this beach park has a few drawbacks. Two Step has a small $5 parking lot and limited amenities. The ocean there has a strong current. Therefore, children and people with disabilities might find this beach difficult to use.

2. Kahalu’u Beach Park

The Kahalu’u Beach Park is the close second snorkeling spot. There are several reasons that make this beach a good destination.

• First, the park is easy to reach and free to use.
• Next, it includes major amenities.

The next factor is a double-edged sword. The beach is quite shallow, which make it easier to get into the water. But it poses challenges when snorkeling close to the reefs. Since sea urchins are present on this beach, water shoes are a good idea.

3. Richardson Ocean Park

The Richardson Ocean Park is the best snorkeling spot on the east coast. If you are exploring Hilo, HI, this park is very easy to reach.

High waves and strong currents are the major downsides of this park. We drove to the Richardson Ocean Park multiple times. Yet, the conditions were unsafe for swimming and snorkeling every time.

You should not count on the Richardson Ocean Park as the sole snorkeling spot for your trip.

Best Hikes

While the Island of Hawaii attracts a lot of beach lovers, the outdoor enthusiasts will find the Big Island just as rewarding. The island features several state parks, reserves, and paths.

Our Best Hiking Spots on the Big Island List summarizes the key information.

1. Polulu Valley

Polulu Valley earned the top spot on our Trails on the Island of Hawaii List. This 0.5-mi (800-m) trail starts at the Valley Lookout. While the parking is free, it is very limited.

The trails brings the hikers to the Polulu Black Sand Beach. The path continues across the beach, uphill and inland. There are multiple trails after crossing the beach. For instance, the Honokane Nui Lookout is within a short hike. Or one could continue along the water streams.

It is still a good idea to preserve strength for the return leg. After all, the hike back to the parking lot features a 420-ft (128-m) elevation gain. After the closure of the Waipi’o Valley, Polulu remains the only opportunity to hike in the Kohala Forest Reserve.

2. Akaka Falls State Park

Akaka Falls State Park claims the second best hiking spot on our list. The park features a short, mostly paved loop trail. While hiking this 0.4-mi (0.6-km) trail through a rainforest, visitors get to see two of the park’s waterfalls. The free falling Akaka Falls are at full display at one of the viewpoints.

On the other hand, lush vegetation obstructs the view of the Kahūnā Falls. The state park charges both parking and admission fees for non-residents. You would need to pay $10 per vehicle and $5 per person to hike in this park.

3. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Hawaii Volcanoes are best known for the scenic drives, Crater Rim Drive and Chain of the Craters Road. But the park also features several trails. The Thurston Lava Tube and Pauahi Crater are the shortest of them.

Serious hikers could embark on much longer trails. For instance, the Puna Coast Trail to the ‘Āpua Point involves a 13.2-mi (21-km) return trip.

The park might close some trails due to the volcanic activity. Therefore, it is a good idea to check for the current trail status before your hike.

4. Rainbow Falls

The presence of the Rainbow Falls on the list of the Best Hikes on the Big Island is up for debate. The Wailuku River State Park houses a short trail that connects the parking lot with the falls viewpoint.

This 0.1-mi (0.2-km) trail takes two minutes to complete. Still, the beauty of this waterfall speaks in favor of hiking this tiny path.

Takeaways: Best Places on the Big Island

The Island of Hawaii has something for everyone. Beach lovers enjoy its multicolored beaches and coral reefs. Outdoor enthusiasts like the hiking trails and waterfalls.

And most visitors find the island’s volcanoes and scenic drives fascinating. You should choose between Kailua-Kona or Hilo as your base, rent a car, and explore the Big Island’s attractions at your own pace. Aloha!

Take a look at our Best Places to Visit on the Big Island Video Guide and visit our YouTube channel for the latest videos.

Safe realist travels!