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Big Island Hawaii
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The Big Island may not be the first stop on a tourist's list, but there are hidden gems that make this island both exciting and accessible. Make sure to rent a 4WD to get the most out of this rugged and sometimes imposing landscape.
adrian, carl, BernieHernie and 12 other people liked this guide, 1138 views
Waipio Valley in Honokaa
One of the most serene and untouched places on earth. The black sand beach and lush valley floor is only accessible via 4wd down an extremely precarious road!
Ka'awa Loa plantation B&B in Captain Cook
Hands down, the nicest place to stay on the Big Island in Hawaii. Stunning views, reasonable rates, amazing food, and friendly staff.
Swim with dolphins at Honaunau bay in South Kona
If you wake up early (6am) and break out the snorkel gear, you can go swim with a group of ~50 spinner dolphins. One of the most amazing experiences in Hawaii.
Mauna Kea Summit in Paauilo
Soar 13,000ft above sea level with clouds and snow in one of the best stargazing spots you'll ever visit. Bring some warm clothes, though. Temps drop to 25 deg!
Suisan Fish Market in Hilo
The only place to get truly fresh fish caught off the coast of the big island. Go early, as selection is meager towards the end of the day.
Hilo Bay Cafe in Hilo
One of the very few great eating establishments on the city. Mall location is quirky, and beer list is impressive. Guinness-battered onion rings are the kicker!
Keei cafe in Kealakekua
The food was only ok – the service was relatively slow, but it's one of the best places to eat on the Kona side, so a must if you're looking for some food.
Ken's house of pancakes in Hilo
Very very kitsch diner-type place in Hilo, but really the only place open past 9pm. Decent comfort food with local flavor.
Mehana Brewing Company in Hilo
Decent beer from a local brewery in Hilo. Tasting room is hidden inside, and it's free!
Kona Sugar Shack in Holualoa
Good clean B&B with friendly staff, easy location. I'd stay there again - though Kona isn't that exciting for 20somethings.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Frankly, it was kind of disappointing for how out of the way it was. No lava as of Jan 09, and most of the park was closed due to sulfur dioxide fumes. Lame.
Waimea in Kamuela
A pretty town in the middle of the Hawaii. Decent stores for browsing local flavor.
Leave a comment (6 comments)
johnz said 1 year ago:
Thanks, Kevin. I'm not sure where you got your photos, but #15 looks like Waimea Valley on Kauai, not the rather flat town of Waimea on the Big Island.
kevinsystrom said 1 year ago:
Fixed!
looanne said 9 months ago:
I like your selections Kevin. Waipio Valley doesn't look like the place I walked down to in March. I've hiked all over this place and use the Hawaii Big Island Trailblazer as my guide. They have pictures of Waipio Valley inside.
JustinHamade said 9 months ago:
We just left the Big Island and didn't see this list before we got there :(
We made it to the volcano's luckily we were already told not to expect much, so we weren't that disappointed.
The waterfall is pretty neat as well.
But all in all the Big Island is not that great.
kevin said 8 months, 2 weeks ago:
I actually think the Big Island has just as much to offer as the other islands -- it's just spread out over a MUCH larger space. Hopefully this guide will help folks plan their stay.
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carl said 1 year ago:
Great guide, thanks for sharing!