4 Must-visit Big Island of Hawaii Attractions - Do you want to take a holiday with a million beauties? Of course, Hawaii will always welcome you with its beauty. Hawaii's Big Island, also known as the Island of Hawaii, is a captivating destination that offers a diverse range of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures.
From its stunning volcanic landscapes to its rich history and vibrant local culture, the Big Island has something for every type of traveler. In this article, we'll explore four must-visit attractions on the Big Island of Hawaii that should be on your itinerary when you visit this remarkable island paradise.
One of the most iconic and mesmerizing attractions on the Big Island is the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Established in 1916, this national park encompasses over 500 square miles of land, making it a vast and dynamic natural wonderland. The park is home to two active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa, making it one of the most active volcanic regions on Earth.
Kilauea, often called the "Drive-in Volcano," offers visitors the opportunity to witness volcanic activity up close and personal. You can drive along Crater Rim Drive to see steaming craters, sulfur vents, and the awe-inspiring Halema'uma'u Crater. A popular hike in the park is the Kilauea Iki Trail, which takes you through lush rainforests and across a solidified lava lake.
For the more adventurous, consider embarking on a guided hike or lava boat tour to witness the red-hot lava flows as they meet the ocean. However, it's crucial to check the current conditions and safety guidelines, as volcanic activity can change rapidly.
The park is not only about volcanic landscapes; it also boasts unique flora and fauna, including the nēnē (Hawaiian goose), which is the state bird of Hawaii. The diverse ecosystems found within the park range from lush rainforests to barren lava fields, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
2. Akaka Falls State Park
On the northeastern side of the Big Island lies Akaka Falls State Park, a hidden gem that showcases Hawaii's lush tropical beauty. The main attraction here is the stunning Akaka Falls, a 442-foot waterfall that plunges into a gorge surrounded by verdant vegetation. The sight of the waterfall against the backdrop of lush rainforest is simply breathtaking.
A well-maintained loop trail, approximately half a mile in length, winds through the park, taking you to two magnificent waterfalls: Akaka Falls and Kahuna Falls. Along the trail, you'll encounter lush ferns, bamboo groves, and other tropical plants, creating a picturesque setting that feels like something out of a fairytale.
The trail is suitable for visitors of all ages and fitness levels, and there are lookout points where you can stop and savor the beauty of the waterfalls. Make sure to bring your camera, as Akaka Falls State Park offers numerous photo opportunities that will leave you with lasting memories of the Big Island's natural splendor.
3. Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park
Steeped in history and cultural significance, the Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, also known as the Place of Refuge, provides a unique glimpse into ancient Hawaiian culture and traditions. Located on the Big Island's western coast, this sacred site served as a place of refuge for those who had broken Hawaiian law, offering them a chance at redemption.
The park is home to a well-preserved complex of ancient Hawaiian structures, including temple platforms, thatched huts, and a great wall made of lava rock. Walking through these historical structures provides an opportunity to connect with Hawaii's rich cultural heritage.
One of the most striking features of the park is the Great Wall (Alo Paʻa). Built entirely without mortar, this massive lava rock wall encircles the sanctuary, separating it from the rest of the world. The wall is not only an architectural marvel but also a symbol of this place's spiritual and cultural significance.
Visitors can explore the park's various archaeological sites, learn about traditional Hawaiian practices, and even participate in cultural demonstrations. The park's pristine beaches and clear waters also offer excellent snorkeling and swimming opportunities.
4. Mauna Kea Summit
For those seeking a celestial adventure, a trip to the summit of Mauna Kea is an absolute must. As the highest point in the Pacific, Mauna Kea's summit reaches an elevation of 13,796 feet (4,205 meters) above sea level. While the mountain itself is dormant, it is known for its world-class observatories and unparalleled stargazing opportunities.
Mauna Kea's summit is above a significant portion of the Earth's atmosphere, which means the air is exceptionally clear and dry, making it an ideal location for astronomical observations. Several world-renowned observatories, including the Keck Observatory and Subaru Telescope, are located here.
Visitors can join stargazing tours and get a close look at celestial wonders through powerful telescopes. On clear nights, you can witness breathtaking views of planets, stars, and even distant galaxies. Be sure to dress warmly, as temperatures at the summit can drop below freezing, even in the summer.
The journey to Mauna Kea's summit involves a steep and winding road, so it's advisable to use a four-wheel-drive vehicle and check road conditions beforehand. It's also important to acclimate to the high altitude slowly to avoid altitude sickness.
Whether you're exploring volcanic landscapes, hiking through lush rainforests, immersing yourself in Hawaiian history, or gazing at the stars from the summit of Mauna Kea, the Big Island promises an extraordinary and unforgettable experience.
We can guess from the brief review above if you are already interested in visiting Hawaii as your family's favorite destination.
Happy Holiday!
4 Must-Visit Big Island of Hawaii Attractions
1. Hawaii Volcanoes National ParkOne of the most iconic and mesmerizing attractions on the Big Island is the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Established in 1916, this national park encompasses over 500 square miles of land, making it a vast and dynamic natural wonderland. The park is home to two active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa, making it one of the most active volcanic regions on Earth.
Kilauea, often called the "Drive-in Volcano," offers visitors the opportunity to witness volcanic activity up close and personal. You can drive along Crater Rim Drive to see steaming craters, sulfur vents, and the awe-inspiring Halema'uma'u Crater. A popular hike in the park is the Kilauea Iki Trail, which takes you through lush rainforests and across a solidified lava lake.
For the more adventurous, consider embarking on a guided hike or lava boat tour to witness the red-hot lava flows as they meet the ocean. However, it's crucial to check the current conditions and safety guidelines, as volcanic activity can change rapidly.
The park is not only about volcanic landscapes; it also boasts unique flora and fauna, including the nēnē (Hawaiian goose), which is the state bird of Hawaii. The diverse ecosystems found within the park range from lush rainforests to barren lava fields, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
2. Akaka Falls State Park
On the northeastern side of the Big Island lies Akaka Falls State Park, a hidden gem that showcases Hawaii's lush tropical beauty. The main attraction here is the stunning Akaka Falls, a 442-foot waterfall that plunges into a gorge surrounded by verdant vegetation. The sight of the waterfall against the backdrop of lush rainforest is simply breathtaking.
A well-maintained loop trail, approximately half a mile in length, winds through the park, taking you to two magnificent waterfalls: Akaka Falls and Kahuna Falls. Along the trail, you'll encounter lush ferns, bamboo groves, and other tropical plants, creating a picturesque setting that feels like something out of a fairytale.
The trail is suitable for visitors of all ages and fitness levels, and there are lookout points where you can stop and savor the beauty of the waterfalls. Make sure to bring your camera, as Akaka Falls State Park offers numerous photo opportunities that will leave you with lasting memories of the Big Island's natural splendor.
3. Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park
Steeped in history and cultural significance, the Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, also known as the Place of Refuge, provides a unique glimpse into ancient Hawaiian culture and traditions. Located on the Big Island's western coast, this sacred site served as a place of refuge for those who had broken Hawaiian law, offering them a chance at redemption.
The park is home to a well-preserved complex of ancient Hawaiian structures, including temple platforms, thatched huts, and a great wall made of lava rock. Walking through these historical structures provides an opportunity to connect with Hawaii's rich cultural heritage.
One of the most striking features of the park is the Great Wall (Alo Paʻa). Built entirely without mortar, this massive lava rock wall encircles the sanctuary, separating it from the rest of the world. The wall is not only an architectural marvel but also a symbol of this place's spiritual and cultural significance.
Visitors can explore the park's various archaeological sites, learn about traditional Hawaiian practices, and even participate in cultural demonstrations. The park's pristine beaches and clear waters also offer excellent snorkeling and swimming opportunities.
4. Mauna Kea Summit
For those seeking a celestial adventure, a trip to the summit of Mauna Kea is an absolute must. As the highest point in the Pacific, Mauna Kea's summit reaches an elevation of 13,796 feet (4,205 meters) above sea level. While the mountain itself is dormant, it is known for its world-class observatories and unparalleled stargazing opportunities.
Mauna Kea's summit is above a significant portion of the Earth's atmosphere, which means the air is exceptionally clear and dry, making it an ideal location for astronomical observations. Several world-renowned observatories, including the Keck Observatory and Subaru Telescope, are located here.
Visitors can join stargazing tours and get a close look at celestial wonders through powerful telescopes. On clear nights, you can witness breathtaking views of planets, stars, and even distant galaxies. Be sure to dress warmly, as temperatures at the summit can drop below freezing, even in the summer.
The journey to Mauna Kea's summit involves a steep and winding road, so it's advisable to use a four-wheel-drive vehicle and check road conditions beforehand. It's also important to acclimate to the high altitude slowly to avoid altitude sickness.
Conclusion
The Big Island of Hawaii offers a wide range of attractions that cater to every type of traveler, from nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers to history buffs and stargazers. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Akaka Falls State Park, Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, and the Mauna Kea Summit are just a few of the island's must-visit destinations that will leave you with unforgettable memories of Hawaii's natural beauty, rich culture, and celestial wonders.Whether you're exploring volcanic landscapes, hiking through lush rainforests, immersing yourself in Hawaiian history, or gazing at the stars from the summit of Mauna Kea, the Big Island promises an extraordinary and unforgettable experience.
We can guess from the brief review above if you are already interested in visiting Hawaii as your family's favorite destination.
Happy Holiday!