Big Island Travel Guide: Day Trips

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Discover Hawaii's Big Island Hidden Wonders.

Insider Tip: 

The Big Island really is big so careful sightseeing and itinerary planning are more important than on the other islands. 

Day 1: Arrival in Kona 

Morning:

• Arrive at Kona International Airport
• Pick up rental car and check in (Kona or Waikoloa)

Afternoon:

• Relax at your hotel or drive to Hapuna or Waikoloa Beach

Evening:

• Beachfront dinner or Luau
• After dark view the Manta Rays 

Day 2: Volcanoes National Park 

Morning:

(Drive or guided tour with hotel pickup)

• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
• Kilauea Visitor Center
• Steam vents and crater overlook

Afternoon:

• Thurston Lava Tube
• Chain of Craters Road scenic stops
• Lunch at Volcano Lodge, crater overlook, or in the Village

Evening:

• Return to your resort before dark (ask Rose for details)

Day 3: Hilo Town and North Road to Waimea

Morning:

• Drive the Saddle Road to Hilo Town
• Hawaii's magnificent waterfalls
• Cliffside Botanical Gardens
• Explore Hilo town and farmers market

Afternoon:

• Akaka Falls State Park
• Drive the coast road north to Waimea

Evening:

• Dinner at sunset on the west shore

Day 4: North to the Big Island Upcountry

Morning:

• Breakfast at your hotel and relax by the pool

Afternoon:

• Waimea town
• Parker Ranch

Evening:

• Sunset views from Waimea or Waikoloa

Day 5: Kona Village

Morning: 

• Kealakekua Bay (snorkeling or boat tour)
• Captain Cook Monument area

Afternoon:

• Coffee farm tour
• Optional stand-up paddle boarding

Evening:

• Dinner in Kailua-Kona
• Optional manta ray night snorkel (Kona’s most famous activity)

Day 6: Southwest Shore

Morning:

• Punaluu Black Sand Beach (turtles often seen)

Afternoon: 

Drive north to Puuhonua o Honaunau

• Two Step snorkeling spot (good snorkeling for good swimmers)
• Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park (must see)

Evening:

• Return to your resort for dinner

Day 7:  Relaxation and Departure 

Morning:

• Final swim or beach walk

Afternoon:

• Last-minute shopping in Kona
• Return rental car and depart Kona International Airport

Note: Day trip plans will be updated on your itinerary bases on the location of your hotel, and the ages of the travelers.