Sightseeing on Hawai’i Island

Visitors are attracted to the Big Island for its diverse landscape, beautiful beaches and captivating waterfalls.

If you’re new to the island, there are numerous sightseeing activities to participate in that will help you make the most of your trip.

When people think of Hawai’i Island, they instantly think of the volcano. At the Hawaii Volcano National Park, you can book a private tour that will help you see the Kilauea Volcano and all her beauty during both day and night.

Also, if you’re in the park make sure to check out the Kilauea Iki Trail for a day hike. It’s definitely worth it.

While molten lava may be your idea of an adventure, for those looking to experience Hawai’i Island’s luscious rainforest check out the Hawai’i Tropical Botanical Garden.

Located off of Highway 19 on the lush Hamakua Coast’s 4 Mile Scenic Drive, the garden hosts an array of living plants that’s ideal for photographers and people with a green thumb. Home to more than 2,000 species, there’s plenty of plant life to explore.

Visitors who like to cruise will find the Big Island’s Saddle Road a site to see. The road connects the east and west sides of the island and travels in between Hawai’i’s largest mountains, Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. It takes a little over an hour and half to travel the road from one side of the island to the other. Enjoy the wildlife along the way.

For the beach bums, a trip to Hapuna Beach may be right up your alley. The popular beach is located on the west side of the island and has beautiful white sand and clear blue water to swim in. The beach is near the Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel and is a great place to spend some time in the sun.

While on the west side, try to stop by the Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park. 

And don’t forget to visit a waterfall during your trip. Akaka Falls is a fan-favorite destination for locals and visitors. Watch in awe as the waterfall plunges 442 feet into a stream-eroded gorge.

There’s plenty to see and do on the Big Island, so make sure to keep checking BigIslandNow.com‘s activities section for the latest adventure updates.

Saddle Road at night. Photo by: Megan Moseley

A helicopter tour flies over Pu’u O’o. Photo by: Megan Moseley

Hapuna Beach State Park. File photo by Jamilia Epping.

Akaka Falls State Park. Photo credit: Jamilia Epping.