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Top Things to Do on the Big Island of Hawaii

orange Sunset in Kona, Big Island of Hawaii

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Hawaii is an archipelago of islands known for its wild, untamed nature, some of the world’s most active volcanoes, and thriving marine life. 

While each of the Hawaiian islands offers something different and unique, for me, the Big Island is all about adventure.

Sunset in Kona

There are so many things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii and each of these attractions offers incredible wow moments – you might just spend your entire vacation with your jaw on the floor!

While the Big Island’s official name is Hawaii, and as such, people have often mistaken Hawaii as singular and not plural, but there are over 137 islands in Hawaii so we’ll refer to the Big Island by its nickname to avoid confusion.

If you’re not sure what to do on the Big Island of Hawaii, then allow us to introduce to you the top Big Island attractions…

The Top Things to Do on The Big Island of Hawaii

1. Explore the Misty Akaka Falls

The Akaka Falls plunges 442 feet into a stream-eroded gorge and is possibly one of the most gorge-ous waterfalls in Hawaii, if not the USA. It’s certainly the most famous waterfall on the Big Island and is frequently visited by tourists.

It’s located in the Akaka Falls State Park which is a great area to go hiking. The trails here are pretty easy and it only took us 30 minutes to get to the falls.

Akaka Falls - things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii

Also in the park is the 100-foot Kahuna Falls which you can see on a looped walk. It was closed for us when we visited, but if you get the chance to see it then it’s said to be beautiful.

Since it’s one of the most popular things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii, parking can be a nightmare. You can park up the road as we did and nab a cheaper price than the official car park!

  • Hours: 8.30am – 5.00pm daily
  • Address: 875 Akaka Falls Rd, Honomu, HI 96728

HOT TIP – Plan your visit for the morning. We went in the afternoon and the sun was in the worst position behind the falls. It made it hard to see anything let alone get a good photo.

2. Visit the Stunning Rainbow Falls

Just outside Hilo Town Center is Rainbow Falls. It’s smaller than Akaka Falls but no less pretty.

Rainbow Falls - things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii

There is also a short trail from the parking lot that takes you to a viewpoint over the waterfalls summit. 

Then from the lookout point, you will see some steps into an exquisite rainforest that takes you to the bottom of the waterfall and the…

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