Big Island is the largest of the Hawaiian Islands. Its dramatic terrain takes you from sunny beaches to snowy peaks, with its volcano Kilauea making a spectacular centre piece, erupting lava in to the sky.

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Hawaii Volcano

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Aerial panorama of the Hapuna Beach

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Makalawena Beach

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Waipio Valley Lookout Big Island Hawaii

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Big Island Coastline

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Big Island Coastline

Description

Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park is one of Big Island’s most popular attractions. As well as visiting its two active volcanoes Maunaloa and Kilauea, you can hike 150 miles of trails through volcanic craters, baron deserts and lush rainforests. You can visit the museum, a walk-in lava tube and see ancient lava rock carvings (Petroglyphs).

Another great experience is the Mauna Kea Star Party, an amazing guided tour that takes you on a bus ride up to Mauna Kea’s summit and allows you to view the beautiful starry sky. Puuhonua o Honaunau is also a must, a 180-acre national historic park which was once home to royal grounds and a place of refuge for ancient Hawaiian lawbreakers.

No visit to Big Island would be complete without a trip to the beach. Hapuna Beach is a favourite with locals and tourists alike, with its velvety soft sands and clear blue seas, the ultimate in relaxation. Water sports such as boogie boarding and surfing are on offer at Kealakekua Bay, along with snorkelling and dolphin watching. Then for something different there’s the black volcanic beaches. So no matter what beach experience you are after, you’ll find it on one of Big Island.

When it comes to dining, Big Island has some amazing restaurants to choose from. If you are looking for authentic Hawaiian Poke, try Da Poke Shack. Other restaurants worth noting are Sushi Rock and Trio and Umekes Ali’s Plaza. If you are looking for something a little bit different try Scandinavian Shaved Ice.