Big Island Hawaii
They don't call Hawaii “the Big Island” for nothing: the island of Hawaii is not only the biggest of the Hawaiian islands, it's bigger than all the other islands combined. And the Big Island is only getting bigger. Unlike some of the other islands, where the volcanoes are either dormant or extinct, Hawaii's volcanoes are still active and continue to erupt. Visiting a live volcano, and getting an up-close look at a lava flow, is one of the most popular tourist activities on the island.
Like Maui and Oahu, Hawaii is one of the most visited islands in the Hawaiian archipelago. And like those other two islands, Hawaii has plenty to offer its guests.
Natural Wonders
As already mentioned, visiting a live volcano is one of Hawaii's must-do activities. Head up to Volcano National Park, where you can explore the volcanoes on foot or by car. One of the easiest ways to get close to the active lava flow is to drive down Chain of Craters Road. The road ends rather abruptly where the lava begins. In fact, a lava flow only recently swallowed up an entire visitors' center! The multi-million dollar facility had just been completed when the volcano decided against the project.
Hikes in Volcano National Park have more to offer than just the volcanoes. The lush, tropical forests growing along the volcanoes' slopes make for a beautiful hiking or biking trip. Camping at the park is also available, and for those who would rather stay indoors, there are also comfortable lodge accommodations.
Besides Volcano National Park, explore some of the islands other parks, including Akaka Falls State Park, named for the magnificent, 442-foot waterfall that plunges into a deep gorge. Slightly tamer than the state and national parks is the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden. Featuring a boardwalk along the ocean and plenty of its own, less dramatic waterfalls, the garden contains over 2,000 tropical plant species.
Kona Coast: Fit for a King
The Kona Coast on Hawaii's western shore was once the home of the Hawaiian royalty. Today, it's a great place for visitors who want to be treated like a queen or a king for the duration of their holiday. The waters off the coast are great for swimming, snorkeling, and catching a glimpse of a dolphin or sea turtle. Some might enjoy a boat tour to swim with the manta rays, or a fishing trip chasing the giant Pacific Blue Marlin.
The weather stays in the balmy 80s Fahrenheit (that's 27 degrees Celsius) all year round. And unlike other areas of the Hawaiian islands, there's not much rain on the Kona Coast; rainfall average less than two inches per month. So you can expect your visit to have plenty of sunshine – perfect for a winter getaway.
The seaside town of Kailua-Kona used to be a quiet fishing village, but today it's an excellent place for shopping, dining, and relaxing. Luxury resorts, condominiums, and high-class hotels are common in Kailua-Kona.
But if that level of luxury isn't right for you, Hilo on Hawaii's eastern coast might be more to your liking. The largest town on Hawaii's largest island, Hilo has hotels of all sorts and plenty of beach access.
One thing's for sure: no matter where you stay on Hawaii's Big Island, you'll find plenty to do – or, if you prefer, plenty of time to lay around on the beach, and not do anything at all.
Photo credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Kirk Lee Aeder
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