By Stephanie Namahoe Launiu
I like to call the Big Island of Hawai‘i the “Big Baby of the Hawaiian Archipelago” because it is the youngest and largest Hawaiian island at over 4,000 square miles in size.
Born and raised on the Big Island, I’ve been to every corner of this alluring island. If you are looking for a Hawaiian vacation without bright lights and huge crowds of people waiting in lines, choosing the Big Island as a place to slow down and unwind is one of the best decisions you’ll make this year. A Big Island 5-Day Itinerary is the least number of days that I’d recommend to maximize your visit. I can guarantee that you’ll want to stay longer.
The Big Island is known for its pulsating diversity. It’s the Land of Fire and Ice with hot lava gushing from Kilauea Volcano whenever an eruption happens, and snow crowning Mauna Kea during the colder months of December to February. Our island has 8 of the 13 climate zones found in the world, and we have white, black, and green sand beaches.
For history buffs, this is the island where British explorer James Cook landed in 1778 revealing Hawai‘i to the world, before being killed by natives. It’s the home of King Kamehameha I who was born and died on this island.
Whether you’re an active adventurer who loves ocean sports and hiking, or someone seeking out the peace of lush rainforests, historical sites, cultural events, and quiet nooks in antique stores and art galleries, the Big Island has it all. So do it all! And you’ll be surrounded by interesting restaurants and food stops along the way.
Where to Stay and How to Get Around
There are two airports on the island – one in Kona and one in Hilo. I recommend flying into the Kona International Airport. There is a wider choice of airlines that service Kona so you have a better chance of landing early enough in the day to settle in and enjoy the Kona sun. If you are staying at a resort hotel in the Waikoloa area, it’ll be about a half-hour drive from the airport. If you are staying in or around the Kailua-Kona area, it’s only about 15 minutes from the airport.
To get the most out of your vacation, a rental car is a must because the Big Island doesn’t have a dependable public transportation system. Be sure to test the windshield wipers before leaving the rental lot because tropical showers are part of Big Island life.
Your first day on the Big Island will be the day you arrive. We won’t start your 5-day Itinerary then. After a long flight, you’ll need the rest of that day to wind down, explore your hotel and surroundings, and rest up for the week ahead. If you want to explore the Big Island, then this itinerary will take you to every district on the island. You’ll spend two nights in Kona, another two nights in Volcano and Hilo, and the final night you can either spend in Waimea or back in Kona before flying out.
What to Bring
You’re free to use this itinerary as is or to use any part of it that works for you. If you’re planning to hike, bring some sturdy hiking shoes. The trails here tend to get muddy and hiking over lava is rough on tennis shoes. Bring a sweater in case the evening gets cool, and if you have a small umbrella at home, throw it in your luggage.
A word of warning about SCUBA DIVING: Health experts advise travelers to wait at least 24-48 hours before flying after diving underwater. A pressurized airplane cabin may affect an individual’s lungs differently. SNUBA and SNORKELING are usually exempt from this restriction, but travelers with underlying health conditions may want to give their bodies extra time to acclimate before or after long flights. If you have concerns, consult with your physician before traveling.
If you forget something at home, don’t panic. You can replace it here. Kona has all of the big box stores including Costco, and Hilo has a Wal-Mart. You aren’t completely leaving civilization behind…
Let’s get started on your Big Island 5-Day Itinerary!
Day 1: Your first full day on the Big Island
Start early because you’re going to the Kohala District and you’ll need to be back by at least 2 pm to get ready for your Dinner Cruise tonight. You can stop at Pine Tree Cafe; they open at 6 am and do killer breakfasts. Or you can stop at a 7-11 if you just want to get a coffee and donut before hitting the road.
Morning
Start your drive to Pololū Valley, which is about 90 minutes from the Kona Airport to give you an idea of the distance. The hike down into the valley is a steep but short 30-minute hike. There’s a black sand beach to welcome you at the bottom, but currents are strong and swimming is not advised. This is a popular hike, so you won’t be alone as you explore the valley. You’ll be at the northernmost point of the Big Island here, and on a clear day, the island of Maui is sometimes visible along with Haleakalā Crater. Even if you don’t hike down, the panoramic scenery is gorgeous at the Pololū Lookout.
Afternoon
This should be your target time to leave the Pololū Lookout. If you’re hot and hungry, Fresh Off the Grid is nearby and they serve up delicious shave ice and lunch plates. As you pass the small town of Kapa‘au, stop at the Kamehameha Statue at the Kohala Civic Center. Be sure to take a photo because this is the original statue! The oft-photographed statue in Honolulu is a copy.
Evening
Captain Cook Dinner Cruise to Kealakekua Bay. This spectacular catamaran dinner cruise sails from the Kailua-Kona pier every afternoon (except Monday). You’ll sail 12 miles down the coast to the Cook Monument while a local historian narrates the sights along the way. Three-course dinner and live entertainment included. Gorgeous complimentary sunset.
Day 2: Enjoy the Big Island’s Abundant Marine Life
Morning
Deluxe Dolphin Watch & Snorkel BBQ. This special 4 ½ hour tour checks off every box for a great day on the ocean. The start is early because dolphins tend to be the most playful and visible in the morning hours. Full breakfast, BBQ lunch, snacks, soda, and water are all included along with reef-safe sunscreen. All snorkeling gear is provided and you’ll have two hours of water time to explore Kona’s crystal-clear ocean.
Afternoon
Stroll Ali‘i Drive in Kailua-Kona. This waterfront area was once the playground of Hawaiian royalty. Some of Ali‘i Drive isn’t in the best shape, but it makes for an interesting hour or two. Walk through the lobby of the Courtyard King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel to view Hawaiian art and artifacts. Stop in at Moku‘aikaua Church, Hawai‘i’s first Christian church. Tour Hulihe‘e Palace where Hawaiian ali‘i came to vacation.
Evening
Do a Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour. Hands down, most visitors want to swim with the manta rays. Manta rays are gentle creatures that are attracted to their plankton food source that appears once powerful lights are turned on in specific viewing areas offshore.
Anelakai Adventures offers two snorkel tour times each evening and they only do 6-person tours that go out on outrigger canoes. It’s eco-friendly without motors, oil, or gas, and you paddle out just like the ancient Hawaiians did. You can choose to snorkel or non-swimmers can view the manta rays from the canoe.
Day 3: Sightseeing Along the Road from Kona to Volcano
You’ll head south through the Ka‘u District to Volcano. To give you an idea of distance, a direct drive from Kailua-Kona to Volcanoes National Park is about 100 miles. You won’t enter the Park today, but I would suggest staying in the Volcano area.
Morning
Pu‘uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park: Located about 22 miles south of Kailua-Kona. Operated by the National Park Service, this 180-acre park was once home to ancient Hawaiian royalty before the arrival of Westerners. It also housed a place of refuge for lawbreakers who were doomed to death if they did not reach this sanctuary. You can easily spend a couple of hours on a self-guided tour and observing cultural demonstrations. Open daily from 8:30 am-4:30 pm.
South Point: This is the halfway point between Kona and Volcano. South Point is the southernmost location in the United States. You might want to drive out to the Point just to say you’ve been there. It’s about 12 miles off the main highway that you’ve been on from Kona. The endless panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean from South Point is breathtaking. It’s desolate and windy, and the drive from the highway to South Point is unremarkable. You’ll see a few farms, cattle and horses, and maybe a food truck or fruit stand along the way. Once you’re done with your photos and sightseeing, drive back to the main road and turn right. You’re now in the Ka‘ū District.
Afternoon
Punalu‘u Bake Shop is a great place for a leisurely pit stop and lunch. Open from 8:30 am-5 pm. Their bakery is excellent – get some malasadas (Portuguese buns), their famous sweet bread, and favorites like eclairs, turnovers, and cheesecake. Order a plate lunch and eat outside in the tropical garden. Pick up souvenirs in the gift shop.
Punalu‘u Black Sand Beach – If it’s not too late in the day, there’s also a gift shop run by locals right on the black sand beach. Punalu‘u is known for being windy. The black sand gets really hot in case you’re wondering why people aren’t lying out on the sand. This is a sea turtle sanctuary so there are usually several sea turtles sleeping on the beach.
Volcano Winery – Open daily from 12-5:30 pm. They offer classic wine tastings during these hours. If you want to go on a one-hour tour of the winery, these are only offered at 12:15 pm and have to be reserved a day in advance. There is also a one-hour tour of their tea fields where their White and Black tea offerings are featured. You can have wine shipped so that it’ll be waiting for your arrival when you get home.
Evening
Although you probably didn’t notice, your drive has taken you to the 4,000-foot elevation. Volcano evenings are often cool and rainy. If you’re lucky enough to be there on a clear night, look up. The sky will be full of stars. Here are some suggestions about where to stay for the night.
Where to Stay: These are suggestions. Many others are advertising online.
You can stay in Volcanoes National Park. There are two campgrounds where you can pitch a tent, but there are also cabins that sleep 1-4 people and are always in demand. The historic Hawaii Volcano House has 33 guest rooms and is situated near the edge of Kilauea Crater. Onsite restaurants offer upscale dining.
Volcano Village Lodge – a bed and breakfast 2 miles from the National Park and popular with travelers.
Kilauea Lodge – Well-known vintage lodge with an onsite restaurant located in Volcano Village right outside the National Park.
Where to Eat: Here are a couple more suggestions.
Ohelo Cafe – Doesn’t look like much from the outside, but their food has been delicious whenever I’ve been there. Woodfired pizza, smoked baby back ribs, vegetarian and vegan options.
Thai Thai Bistro & Bar – Delicious Thai food. Their Thai Thai special curry is outstanding.
Day 4: Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park & Historic Hilo
This day is set aside for Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. The NPS’s excellent website will help you to plan out your day. Your first stop in the Park should be the Kilauea Visitor Center. Unfortunately, it’s due to close for renovations soon. Dates are uncertain and what the Park plans to do to help visitors is TBD.
You can easily spend an entire day in the Park with hikes like the Kilauea Iki Hike, and the famed Chain of Craters Drive to the ocean.
Afternoon
Head down from Volcano towards Hilo; it’s a 30-mile drive. These are some activities you can do in Hilo, where I suggest you spend the night.
Rainbow Falls – If there have been recent heavy rains, the falls are thundering. Otherwise, it’s pretty mild and picturesque.
Walk in Historic Downtown Hilo
Stroll around Liliuokalani Gardens and walk over the bridge to Coconut Island. The 360-degree view of Hilo Bay from Coconut Island is astounding.
Where to Stay in Hilo: These are suggestions. Many others are advertising online. Since you’re only staying for one night, my suggestions are smaller properties with simple check-ins.
SCP Hilo Hotel: I highly recommend this family-run hotel with a retro feel. Great to unwind from your busy day at Volcano. The Coconut Grill, their onsite restaurant, is convenient with a family-friendly menu.
Dolphin Bay Hotel: Close to Downtown Hilo. Consistently rated the Nicest Small Hotel in Hilo.
Hilo Honu Inn Bed and Breakfast: Quaint and right up the hill from Downtown Hilo.
Where to Eat: Here are a few suggestions.
Ponds Hilo: Situated overlooking Ice Pond, directly across from SCP Hilo Hotel. Ask to sit by the window.
Seaside Restaurant & Aqua Farm: Fresh, fresh seafood.
Moon and Turtle: Located in Downtown Hilo. Innovative Asian-fusion restaurant with a menu that changes often to source fresh local foods. Check Facebook daily for the menu.
Day 5: Explore the Hāmākua Coast
Your last full day on the island. This day will take you out of Hilo and up the Hāmākua Coast back toward Kona. This itinerary has you eating dinner in Waimea, whether or not you decide to spend the night there. Allow for a 1-hour drive from Waimea to Kona International Airport if you leave the next morning.
Morning
Paul’s Place: Open from 7:30 am-2 pm. Located in Downtown Hilo. This would be a great breakfast send-off from Hilo. Paul’s is a tiny niche restaurant with just 3 tables. Belgian waffles are spectacular. Reserve way in advance and arrive on time.
Hawai‘i Tropical Botanical Garden: Gorgeous views of the Onomea coastline. Tropical rainforest garden with over 2,500 species of plants. Open daily 9 am-5 pm.
Triple Tier Umauma Falls: You can do a self-guided tour of the waterfalls and tropical gardens for a nominal fee. They also offer Horseback Riding, Zipline, ATV, e-bike and Kayaking.
Afternoon
You should pass the small plantation town of Honoka‘a in the early afternoon. There’s not much to stop in for there when your time is limited, but Tex Drive-In is on the main highway. They have plate lunches, a nice little rest stop, and they’re known for their wide flavor assortment of malasadas (Portuguese buns). They’re open 6 am-6 pm.
Half an hour past Tex’s and you’ll be in Waimea. It’s Paniolo (Cowboy) Country with Parker Ranch taking up most of the pastureland here. They offer self-guided tours of the two historic family homes with their heirlooms and artwork. Reservations are required and they offer tours at 10 am, 11 am, and 1 pm.
Where to Eat: Expect to have dinner in Waimea. For a backcountry town, their food is amazing.
Fish and the Hog: A Market Cafe offering Fresh Island Fish, BBQ, Sandwiches, and Salads. Open 11:30 am-8:30 pm. Family friendly. Offers take-out and dine-in. Can get crowded at peak times.
Merriman’s: Upscale and pricey, but Chef Peter Merriman is known for his excellent cuisine that uses the freshest local ingredients. Reservations are required for dinner from 5:00-8:30 pm.
For a festive final night on the Big Island, try the Paniolo Sunset BBQ Dinner. Wednesday nights only from 5:30-8:30 pm at Kahua Ranch. Buffet dinner includes prime rib, BBQ chicken, side dishes, desserts, and non-alcoholic drinks. Live country music, line dancing, roping demonstration, and more Hawaiian-style fun. Reservations required.
Where to Stay in Waimea:
Kamuela Inn: Boutique hotel with 30 rooms. Upcountry hospitality. Complimentary continental breakfast.
I’ve written a book on the best tips for enjoying the food that locals on the Big Island LOVE! Get the KINDLE version on Amazon.com, and you can have it on your Android or iPhone while you travel around the island. Download the FREE KINDLE APP TODAY. For convenience, all links are live in the Kindle version.