Taking a deep dive into the ocean to swim with manta rays and getting muddy with the ATV ride are considered some of the best Big Island activities.
Generally, the Big Island of Hawai’i was known for its serene beaches and landscapes, but when my husband and I went there, we stumbled upon so many adventurous and wholesome Big Island activities that made our trip worthwhile.
Hence, it is fair enough to say, Big Island isn’t just about breathtaking views; it is much more than that. Join us as we uncover and spill the tea about the best Big Island Hawai’i activities that balance the thrill and wholesome moments hand-in-hand.
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What is the Most Amazing Thing to Do In Big Island, Hawai’i?
If there’s one activity that captures the heart and soul of Big Island, Hawaii, it’s none other than ‘Big Island Hawai’i volcano activity’.
Imagine yourself walking through the ancient lava fields, feeling the earth’s heartbeat under your feet, and watching the steam rise from the vents that give you thrilling chills and remind you that the island is still alive.
Moreover, it’s just not one of the Big Island Hawai’i activities on your list; it’s a remarkable experience witnessing creation topped up with thrill in real time.
This activity is raw, powerful, thrilling & unforgettable, and this is exactly what the Big Island is all about!
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19 Best Big Island Activities That Will Leave You Enchanted
Here’s a sneak peek of the best Big Island activities in Hawaii that will give you thrilling memories for life:
- Take a Deep Dive Into the Pacific Ocean With Giant Manta Rays
- Trek to Hawai’i’s Tallest Mountain – Witness a Breathtaking Sunrise
- Experience the Thrill Through Hawai’i’i Volcanoes National Park
- Go Off-Roading and Get Muddy With the ATV Ride
- Go Sky-High With the Helicopter Tour
- Get Set Go for Horseback Riding
- Witness the Red-Hot Lava Right In Front of Your Eyes
- Explore the Underwater With Scuba Diving
- Time to Ride a Wave – Go Surfing
- Try Zipline – Right Above the In-Depth Sea
- Stargaze Whole Night and Make Wholesome Memories
- Try All the Beach Activities – Go for a Walk, Dance, and More
- Sit by the Waterfall and Enjoy Serene Views
- Set up an Aesthetic Picnic Getaway
- Steal a Moment and Walk by the Rainbow Falls
- Deep Dive Into the Historical and Cultural Vibe of Hawai’i
- Visit Big Island’s Tropical Bioreserve & Garden
- Explore Waipi’o Valley Lookout
- Experience an Exotic Dinner Cruise
Now, the Big Island isn’t just about picture-perfect beaches; it’s an island where your adrenaline rush can do wonders and make lifetime memories.
So, if you’re craving thrills, here are my 10 best recommended Big Island activities that will leave you spellbound.
1. Take a Deep Dive Into the Ocean With Giant Manta Rays
Sounds scary, right? But don’t worry, you’ll have the time of your life!
On the Kona Coast, participate in a guided night snorkel or a night dive, where you can watch these gentle giants swoop and swirl under spotlights. Sometimes, you’ll feel they are just around you (a few meters away, but don’t panic – these are the most harmless creatures you’ll ever see.)
This experience is surreal, magical, full of thrill, and an unforgettable memory; it is also considered one of the best activities in Big Island Hawai’i.
Pro Tip: These activities sell out extremely fast, so try to book in advance (especially during the peak season).
2. Trek to Hawai’i’s Tallest Mountain – Witness a Breathtaking Sunrise
At nearly 13,803ft – Mauna Kea isn’t just Hawaii’s tallest mountain – it’s a breathtaking spot that will make you wish to keep your eyes wide open without blinking.
To reach there, you can either drive to the summit (best if travelling with kids) or you can take one of the hiking trails through the Haleakalā National Park (recommended for trek lovers). You’ll experience some otherworldly views engrossed in blazing orange hues – it’s a sunrise that you’ll hold on to forever.
Pro Tip: The air is thin at this altitude, so make sure to wrap yourself up with warm layers and make sure to arrive before sunrise (you’ll witness the most pleasant shift).
3. Experience the Thrill Through Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage site) is the heart of the Big Island. You can hike through the Kīlauea Iki, explore the lava tube field, and if all conditions are favorable during the time of your visit – you can even witness the thrilling volcanic landscapes.
This part is a perfect fit for people who are adventure lovers and geology buffs because it gives surreal nighttime volcanic views. Moreover, it is also considered one of the best activities in Big Island Hawai’i.
Pro Tip: To avoid any chaos last minute, visit the Kīlauea Visitor Centre for real-time information.
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4. Go Off-Roading and Get Muddy With the ATV Ride
Who doesn’t want their day out plans to be a little adventurous and thrilling, especially if you’re on the Big Island? And if you are a bike enthusiast, an ATV ride with your loved one is a cherry on top!
So, book an ATV adventure tour on islands like Oahu, the Big Island, or Kauai and cross through the rugged back roads. You’ll pass through the waterfalls, valleys, muddy fields, and more. It’s a bit messy, but that’s what makes it the most fun (perfect for a group outing).
Pro Tip: Wear clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty at all!
5. Go Sky-High With the Helicopter Tour
Want to experience the Big Island from the top? Grab your tickets to one of the helicopter tours and experience the Hawaiian island with serene coastlines, volcanic getaways, and pleasing waterfalls from above.
A helicopter tour gives you the bird’s-eye view of the landscapes that you simply can’t explore on the ground. So, it is one of the activities that you can’t skip if you’re visiting Hawaii, aka one of the best activities in Big Island Hawai’i.
Pro Tip: Kauai and the Big Island are two of the best options; make sure to book one of these.
6. Get Set Go for Horseback Riding
Get into the main character vibe, and book yourself a horseback riding tour in Hawaii. There is a town that is extremely famous for horseback rides, and that is – Upcountry Maui. Four types of tours are available there, and those are:
- Triple L Ranch – This one is best for ocean views, and it’ll cost you around $200-$300 per person.
- Ironwood Ranch – It is famous for mountain rides, topped up with ocean views, costing around $60-$150 (suitable for kids too, so it’s a +1).
- Circle M Ranch – My personal favorite, ultimately known for coastal riding and serene views all along. It’ll cost you around $180-$280 (worth every penny).
- Thompson Ranch Maui – Last but not least, this one is the most elite; you’ll feel like you’re in a movie or something (highly recommended). It will cost you around $200 per person.
7. Witness the Red-Hot Lava Right In Front of Your Eyes
Witnessing red-hot volcanic lava activity is one of those experiences that you’ll brag about to your friends for years. Standing close to see the molten lava glowing against the night sky is an unreal experience. Trust me, pictures don’t do justice to the beauty.
So, make sure to add this to your list and book a molten lava tour; guides will take you to the safe viewpoints where you can witness lava flowing through.
Pro Tip: Always book an expert guide; don’t go all by yourself (because it’s extremely risky as well).
8. Explore the Underwater With Scuba Diving
I love being a water baby, and the Big Island’s black water underworld is a bliss for every like-minded individual out there.
Take a deep dive into the crystal-clear water that shines like gold under the sun, and you’ll see coral reefs, tropical baby fish, and more. Moreover, if you’re fond of water, Kona’s water world is a bliss for you; it’s renowned for its clarity, which makes it one of the best of Hawaii’s diving destinations. Additionally, this activity is one of the best activities on the Big Island of Hawai’i.
Pro Tip: If you’re new to the diving world, don’t feel left out (I’ve got something for you as well). Start with a discovery dive—it’s beginner-friendly and ultimately safe.
9. Time to Ride a Wave – Go Surfing
Ever since I played Subway Surfers, it has been my dream to surf like a pro, and on my trip to Hawaii, the dream came true.
Surfing isn’t just an activity – it’s an art of balancing yourself between the waves. So, if you’re a beginner looking forward to surfing, book a local surf guide at Kahalu’u Beach and enjoy the ocean’s rhythm in the most free way.
Pro Tip: Never ever try to surf without guidance (especially if you’re a beginner).
10. Try Zipline – Right Above the In-Depth Sea
This is your sign to experience a zipline adventure tour over one of the most beautiful islands in Hawaii. You can experience breathtaking landscapes and panoramic ocean views and feel the rush of wind against your skin. Some ziplines even stretch for half a mile, giving you time to soak in, laugh, and scream your lungs out.
Pro Tip: Make sure to wear fitted clothes and closed-tie shoes.
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11. Stargaze Whole Night and Make Wholesome Memories
There’s nothing better than sitting in silence with your family and having the time of your life, and if it’s Big Island’s Mauna Kea, it’s a cherry on top.
This is known to be one of the most prominent locations for stargazing, offering the clearest, darkest skies in the world. If you want to make the most of your stargazing experience, consider booking a guided stargazing tour for an educational, family-friendly evening.
Families often turn stargazing sessions into a storytelling night and a wholesome memory for life.
12. Try All the Beach Activities – Go for a Walk, Dance, and More
The Big Island’s coastline offers endless activities for heartwarming joys!
You can build sandcastles with your kids (highly recommended), walk hand-in-hand during sunset, or even dance your heart out to your go-to songs. These little moments create lifetime memories and stand out as the best memories.
13. Sit by the Waterfall and Enjoy Serene Views
Imagine yourself sitting by the side of the waterfall and enjoying the serene views; sounds pleasing, right?
The Big Island offers spots like Akaka Falls and Umauma Falls, which are just perfect for simply sitting, unwinding, and soaking in the natural beauty of Hawaii. Best for the family outing that wants to spend a moment of silence in peace.
Note: Try to make it to the fall early morning; you’ll experience less crowd.
14. Set up an Aesthetic Picnic Getaway
The Big Island’s landscape needs a separate moment of appreciation, so grab your sheets, tropical fruits, local dishes, & add-ons and enjoy the view overlooking the ocean.
Whether you’re planning it with your kids running around or simply want to enjoy a moment with your partner, it’s a kind of activity that feels straight out of a travel journal.
Additional Note: You can explore the local farmer’s market to grab stuff for your aesthetic picnic getaway.
15. Steal a Moment and Walk by the Rainbow Falls
By now, you know the Big Island is famous for having the most serene waterfalls, but here’s a twist to the story – Rainbow Falls is known for the beautiful rainbows visible in its mist on sunny mornings.
So, just like me, if you’re also a fond lover of colors in the sky, take a short drive from downtown Hilo to the viewpoint. Additionally, it’s free of cost; you need not pay a single penny (it’s a +1).
16. Deep Dive Into the Historical and Cultural Vibe of Hawai’i
It would be unfair to associate the Big Island with just beaches, landscapes, and adventure – there’s so much more to know about this place that often gets overlooked by the visitors.
So, if you’re visiting this gem, make sure to deep dive into their culture and traditions and learn about their influence. Engage in conversations with locals, try local dishes, have a chit-chat session with locals, and educate yourself on the beauty of this place.
Additional Note: As per the tourist, this is one of the best activities in Big Island Hawai’i, so make sure you don’t miss out on this!
17. Visit Big Island’s Tropical Bioreserve & Garden
My husband and I came to this place, and that was the moment when we decided we had to take our girls here at least once. This beautiful Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden (HTBG), located on the Big Island’s Onomea Valley, is a bliss to your eyes.
It features lush green spaces, waterfalls, streams, and diverse plant species, making it an enriching and insightful activity both for the kids and the couple.
Additional Note: Visit the official website for real-time information, and the usual timings for a visit are 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
18. Explore Waipi’o Valley Lookout
Waipi’o Valley Lookout is popularly known as ‘Valley of Kings’; let me walk you through why it is called that.
From the lookout, the views of green fields, waterfalls, steep cliffs, and more are jaw-dropping. You’ll see the mile-long black sand beaches that are no less than a therapy to your eyes.
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19. Experience an Exotic Dinner Cruise
At last, end your trip with a wholesome dinner with your family on an exotic cruise. You can book a catamaran dinner cruise to Kealakekua Bay, which includes live music, delicious meals, desserts, and space for your kids to run around and have a good time, topped off with the best night views and the sound of water.
Make sure to sink it with all the memories you made and take a moment to be grateful for everything.
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Final Words
The Big Island is just not a destination – it’s a full-fledged experience that will stay with you for longer than you thought.
From volcano to manta ray dives and stargazing to serene waterfalls, this island balances out the adventure and soul-soothing moments. No matter who you’re travelling with, the Big Island will surprise you at every turn and fill you up with crazy stories and wholesome memories.
Additionally, just in case you want to explore another island similar to the Big Island, here are the best things to do in Maui that will leave you surprised.
I hope by the end of this blog, you’ve got a precise answer to what are the best Big Island activities. Now choose any activity, and make some wholesome memories.
FAQs
What are the best Big Island activities?
What is the Big Island Hawai’i volcano activity?
Big Island Hawaii volcano activity is all about witnessing the ancient lava fields, feeling the earth’s heartbeat under your feet, and watching the steam rise from the vents that give you thrilling chills.
What are the top natural attractions on the Big Island?
The Big Island’s top natural attractions include Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, Rainbow Falls, Kahalu’u Beach, and more.
Is snorkeling on the Big Island good?
Yes, if done under supervision with a guided tour, it is a 10/10 experience.
What are some good family-friendly Big Island Hawai’i activities?
Some good family-friendly Big Island Hawai’i activities include stargazing the whole night, walking by the Rainbow Falls, watching manta rays swim, and more.
