Should You Visit Big Island of Hawaii?

Is Big Island of Hawaii worth visiting?

This island is a good place to visit for 5-14 days. During our first trip to Big Island of Hawaii in 2009, we fell in love with relaxing atmosphere and world-class experiences like diving with the manta rays. We've come back several times since then to experience it even more. The Big Island of Hawaii is an impressive and spectacularly stunning destination with iconic viewpoints and scenic overlooks. There are many hiking trails on the island, many of which are concentrated in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The island also has both luxury resorts and accommodations that appeal to a younger, more budget conscious crowd.

Waipi'o Valley, Hawai'i

Reasons to Visit Big Island of Hawaii

Resorts
There are a number of beautiful luxury resorts on the island like the Hilton Waikoloa Village, the Four Seasons Resort, and Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort.

Scuba Diving & Snorkeling
There are a number of beautiful snorkeling spots where you'll see beautiful fish and sometimes even sea turtles. A bucket list experience is also diving or snorkeling with the manta rays, which will take your breath away.

Beaches
This is a younger island than most in Hawaii, so the beaches are varied and diverse. You'll find white sand beaches, black volcanic sand beaches, and even green sand. There are also areas where the lava rock reaches the ocean. Hapuna Beach is a favorite as is Honl's Beach.

Hiking
The island is filled with miles of spectacular hiking trails. They'll take you to iconic waterfalls, world-renowned viewpoints, and through fields of lava rocks. Many people spend days hiking in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, but there are also impressive hikes along the Kona Coast.

Shopping
There are many local artisan shops on the island, particular in Hilo, Historic Kailua Village and along the Kohala Coast. You'll find handmade quilts, wooden carved products, and handcrafted jewelry.

Museums
There are several local museums around the island such as the Hulihe'e Palace and 'Imiloa Astronomy Center. There's also the Hawaii Plantation Museum and the Lyman House Museum.

Food
It can be challenging to find local restaurants that aren't catering to the tourist crowd, but when you do you'll be rewarded with great local dishes. Seafood, poke bowls, and shave ice are all popular.

Is Big Island of Hawaii worth visiting in the Summer?

This is the shoulder season for travel in Big Island of Hawaii. This is an extremely touristy destination, so in the shoulder season you'll still see plenty of other tourists when you visit. However, good prices and deals are to be found on hotels and tours.

The weather in Big Island of Hawaii is fairly warm during summer, and stays around 24°C (76°F). But it can get as warm as 28°C (83°F) at times, too. It's also quite rainy during this season, so be prepared.

With the warmer weather, the beach is very popular this time of year. Spend time enjoying the waves and sand during your visit. The nearby hiking this time of year is a must-do, so take some time to get out on the trails, take in some fresh air, and enjoy the scenery. During this season it's fun to experience the beaches, the hiking, and the museums and landmarks. Also, you can experience the resorts.

Is Big Island of Hawaii worth visiting in the Autumn?

The weather in Big Island of Hawaii is fairly warm during autumn, and stays around 24°C (76°F). But it can get as warm as 29°C (83°F) at times, too. It's also quite rainy during this season, so be prepared.

Autumn is the shoulder season for travel in Big Island of Hawaii, which means slightly less visitors than in the peak season. As a very touristy destination, even in the shoulder season you'll see plenty of tourists when you visit. However, good prices and deals are to be found at this time of year.

This is a great time of year to take in the beautiful scenery, wander through the museums, and go hiking.

Is Big Island of Hawaii worth visiting in the Winter?

Winter is the high season for travel in Big Island of Hawaii, so expect more visitors and higher prices. This is an extremely popular destination, and in the high season it's busier than usual as this is when most people are able to travel. Expect large crowds of tourists, longer lines, and higher prices for hotels. On the other hand, you'll find that everything is open and you'll have a wide array of activities, things to do, and places to eat.

The weather in Big Island of Hawaii is fairly warm during winter, and stays around 22°C (72°F). But it can get as warm as 27°C (80°F) at times, too. It's also quite rainy during this season, so be prepared.

You'll find plenty to do during winter, as you'll be able to browse through museums and taste delicious cuisine.

Is Big Island of Hawaii worth visiting in the Spring?

This is the shoulder season for travel in Big Island of Hawaii. As a very touristy destination, even in the shoulder season you'll see plenty of tourists when you visit. However, good prices and deals are to be found at this time of year.

The weather in Big Island of Hawaii is fairly warm during spring, and stays around 23°C (73°F). But it can get as warm as 27°C (80°F) at times, too. It's also quite rainy during this season, so be prepared.

A visit this time of year should definitely be on your list, as the natural scenery is just breathtaking. Explore the island scenery to take in the views, admire nature up close, and enjoy the fresh air. During this season it's fun to experience the quaint shops, the famous sights and museums, and the gorgeous scenery.

Things to Consider Before Visiting Big Island of Hawaii

Nightlife: Most people don't associate Big Island of Hawaii with a lively nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is very chill with many local places that have live music and drinks. You won't find any major nightclubs, but there are karaoke bars and laid back breweries. The most options are found in Hilo and Kailua-Kona.

Lots of Tourists
Big Island of Hawaii sees a high number of visitors every year, which means you might have to wait in line and deal with large crowds during your visit.

Getting Around
The area is not very walkable, and public transit is not great here, so it might be difficult to get around without arranging your own transportation.

The Cost
Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Big Island of Hawaii might be an expensive destination for you. You can find out the travel costs for Big Island of Hawaii here or see if Big Island of Hawaii is expensive here.

Related

What is Big Island of Hawaii most famous for?

Big Island of Hawaii is most famous for its active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and majestic manta rays. People visit this impressive island for its great resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. It is also known for its great shopping. And many visitors also come to this island for its museums and food. It is often described as laid back, relaxing, and adventure-filled.

What is the most famous sight in Big Island of Hawaii?

The most popular sight in Big Island of Hawaii is the Waipio Valley Overlook. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Big Island of Hawaii on our travel costs page.

Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for the Waipio Valley Overlook and other attractions here.

How touristy is Big Island of Hawaii? Is it a popular island to visit?

Big Island of Hawaii is a very touristy island that attracts travelers from around the globe. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)

How long should I spend in Big Island of Hawaii?

The ideal length of time for a trip to Big Island of Hawaii is at least five or as many as onefour days. Since Big Island of Hawaii has a variety of activities such as hiking, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, most people need this much time to see and do everything here.

If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Big Island of Hawaii?, Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Big Island of Hawaii?, and Should I spend 1 or 2 weeks in Big Island of Hawaii?.