Silver Jeep Rubicon parked on a rocky shore with palm trees in the background, door open with a person wearing a hat standing inside, looking out towards the sea.

9 Reasons Why the Big Island Is the Best Island for You to Visit

ByKody B

When planning a trip to Hawaii, one of the most important decisions you’ll have to make is choosing which island(s) to visit. With six main islands, each offering unique experiences, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go.

If you are considering going to The Big Island, this island might be your perfect destination if you’re looking for a diverse landscape. It’s the largest island in Hawaii, offering everything from lush rainforests to active volcanoes and stunning black sand beaches. 

Let’s discuss in more detail why you might need to pick the Big Island for your next Hawaiian adventure.

Silver Jeep Rubicon parked on a rocky shore with palm trees in the background, door open with a person wearing a hat standing inside, looking out towards the sea.

1. You Love Volcanoes

The Big Island is home to two active volcanoes – Kilauea and Mauna Loa, making it a prime destination for volcano enthusiasts. Not many places offer an experience where you can see and feel the power of a live volcano (from a safe distance).

Of course, the volcano would need to be active, but even if it isn’t, you can still explore the lava tubes and craters and witness the unique landscape shaped by years of volcanic activity.

There aren’t many places in the world that look like The Big Island, so if you’re interested in geology and want to see something unique, this is the island for you.

Glowing molten lava at Kilauea flowing from a fissure in the hardened black surface, capturing the intense heat and bright orange of the volcanic activity.

2. You Want to Go to Black Sand Beaches

Due to its volcanic nature, the Big Island is the only island with stunning black sand beaches. Yes, Maui has one, but the Big Island has way more!

We got the opportunity to explore some of the best black sand beaches on the island, and there is something about walking on black sand that makes it feel unique and special. If you’re a beach lover, this is something you want to take advantage of.

Our favorite black sand beach on the island is Punaluʻu Beach, located on the southeastern coast. If you are lucky, you might even see some Hawaiian green sea turtles while you are there.

A person in a pink bikini and white cover-up walking away on Punalu'u Beach with its distinctive black sand and crashing waves, under an overcast sky.
Close-up of a sea turtle swimming near the rocky edge of the ocean with its shell blending into the dark water surface.
A person wearing a wide-brimmed hat sits facing away, overlooking the lush Pololu Valley and cliffside with the blue ocean in the distance.

3. Chance to See Unique Wildlife

One of the most epic things we have ever done while traveling is snorkeling with manta rays, and the Big Island is one of the few places in the world where you can do this. I can’t even describe being face-to-face with these graceful creatures in their natural habitat. 

We will always remember this experience and highly recommend it to anyone visiting the Big Island.

Underwater view of a manta ray gliding in the dark sea, with its white underbelly and elongated fins visible against the dimly lit water.
A person walking on a sandy beach towards the ocean on a sunny day with clear skies and calm waters, trees and a building in the distance.

4. You Want to Stargaze at Mauna Kea

Did you know that the tallest mountain in the world is located on the Big Island? 

Mauna Kea, standing 33,500 feet from its base on the ocean floor, offers one of the best stargazing experiences in the world. The summit is also home to some of the most advanced telescopes and observatories.

We’ve been lucky enough to stargaze at Mauna Kea, and it’s by far one of the best things we have done in Hawaii. You have to experience it for yourself to understand! Just dress warmly, as the summit temperatures can drop below freezing.

Two people embracing on the summit of Mauna Kea during sunset, with observatories and a sea of clouds in the background.

5. You Want a Chance to See Snow in Hawaii

Yes, you read that right. Hawaii may be known for its beaches and tropical climate, but the Big Island offers a unique chance to see snow at the summit of Mauna Kea. 

This is the only island in Hawaii where you can experience two very different climates in one day – from the beach to snow-capped mountains. If this isn’t a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, we don’t know what is. 

Of course, it doesn’t always snow, but when it does, the views are breathtaking!

The snow-capped peak of Mauna Kea under a cloudy sky, with contrasting dark volcanic rock surrounding the snow.
A person seated on a ridge at Mauna Kea, enjoying the sunset with telescopes and a vast cloud inversion in the backdrop

6. You Want to Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is home to the world’s most active volcano, Kilauea, and features stunning landscapes. Visitors can hike through a lava tube, see ancient petroglyphs, and explore the park’s diverse ecosystems.

I know we keep mentioning the volcanoes, but it kind of is AWESOME!

Due to volcanic activity, the park is continually changing, so it’s important to check with park officials before visiting to ensure safety. Also, always visit the visitor center before exploring the area for more information.

A hiker explores the vast, rugged terrain of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, with a large volcanic crater in the background and sparse vegetation on the ground.
A person stands at the entrance of a dark cave surrounded by lush greenery and dangling roots at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, evoking a sense of mystery and exploration.

7. You Want to Experience Hawaiian Culture

The Big Island is rich in Hawaiian culture, and there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in it. 

We love visiting historical sites and learning about ancient Hawaiian traditions, and we always leave the island with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the land and its people.

One must-visit spot is the Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, once a refuge for ancient Hawaiian lawbreakers. Today, it offers visitors a glimpse into the past and a chance to learn about traditional Hawaiian customs.

For more historical and cultural experiences, visit the Hulihee Palace in Kailua-Kona, a former vacation home for Hawaiian royalty.

Tall palm trees surround the ancient rock walls of Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, with a person in the distance giving scale to the serene, historic landscape.
A cheerful person poses with traditional Hawaiian Tiki statues by the ocean at Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, showcasing the cultural heritage against a backdrop of clear blue skies.

8. You Want to See Some of the Best Waterfalls in Hawaii

Yes, we agree that Maui has the best waterfalls in Hawaii. But don’t discount the Big Island, which also has some spectacular ones. 

Some of our favorites are the majestic Akaka Falls, towering at 442 feet tall, and the stunning Rainbow Falls, named for the rainbows that often appear in its mist.

Rainbow Falls on the Big Island of Hawaii cascades powerfully into a dark pool below, surrounded by dense tropical foliage and the misty atmosphere of a secluded paradise.
The majestic Akaka Falls plummets down a sheer cliff surrounded by lush rainforest in the heart of the Big Island, creating a tranquil and picturesque scene.

9. You Are a Budget Traveler

The Big Island is the second most affordable Hawaiian island after Oahu, making it an excellent destination for budget travelers. 

We know a trip to Hawaii can be expensive, so if you want to avoid visiting Oahu, the Big Island is a great alternative. There are affordable hotels, vacation rentals, and budget-friendly accommodations.

Green Sand Beach's unique olive-hued sands meet turquoise waters, framed by dramatic volcanic cliffs and a busy beach scene on the Big Island of Hawaii.

Is the Big Island Really That Great?

If you love diversity, adventure, and stunning natural beauty, the answer is yes! The Big Island is that great. 

There is something for everyone on this island, from relaxing on beautiful beaches to hiking through lush rainforests and seeing active volcanoes. The island’s unique culture and rich history also add to its charm!

But there are also some things you must be aware of before planning your trip. Here is an article that discusses why The Big Island might not be for everyone.

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