Serene Burgess

Greenville, SC

Big Island Travel Agent Specialist

The Big Island of Hawaii, officially known as Hawaii Island, is the largest and youngest of the Hawaiian Islands. It is a land of striking contrasts, offering diverse landscapes ranging from active volcanoes to lush rainforests, black sand beaches, and snow-capped mountains. The island’s unique geography, rich culture, and outdoor adventures make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a truly diverse experience.Natural Wonders and GeographyThe Big Island is home to some of Hawaii’s most iconic natural features. Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park is a highlight, offering visitors a chance to witness the raw power of nature. Kilauea, one of the most active volcanoes in the world, is located here, and visitors can explore lava tubes, steam vents, and, with luck, see flowing lava. Mauna Loa, the world’s largest volcano by volume, also dominates the landscape.The island’s terrain varies dramatically. In the north, Waimea is home to rolling green pastures and ranch lands, while the Kohala Coast boasts golden beaches and luxury resorts. In contrast, the Hamakua Coast features rugged cliffs and waterfalls, including the famous Akaka Falls.The island also offers unique beach experiences. Punalu'u Beach is famous for its black sand and is a popular spot to see Hawaiian green sea turtles basking on the shore. Hapuna Beach, one of the island’s largest white sand beaches, is a favorite for swimming and snorkeling.Adventure and Outdoor ActivitiesOutdoor enthusiasts will find no shortage of activities on the Big Island. Snorkeling and diving are popular along the Kona and Kohala coasts, where clear waters and vibrant coral reefs abound. Visitors can swim with manta rays at night, a unique and thrilling experience.Hiking is another major draw, with trails ranging from easy coastal walks to more challenging routes through volcanic craters and rainforests. The Kilauea Iki Trail in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park takes hikers across a solidified lava lake, while the Pololu Valley Lookout on the northern coast offers stunning views and a trail down to a remote black sand beach.For those seeking a different kind of adventure, Mauna Kea, the highest point in Hawaii, offers opportunities for stargazing at the Mauna Kea Observatories. The summit’s high altitude and clear skies make it one of the best places in the world to view stars. In winter, snow even covers the peak, and visitors can enjoy a surreal experience of snow in Hawaii.Culture and HistoryThe Big Island is rich in Hawaiian history and culture. Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, located on the Kona Coast, is a sacred site where ancient Hawaiians sought refuge in times of conflict. The park features restored temples and structures that offer insight into traditional Hawaiian life.Hilo, the island’s largest city, is known for its lush surroundings and local charm. It is home to the Pacific Tsunami Museum and the Lyman Museum, both offering educational experiences on the island’s natural history and culture. Hilo is also the gateway to exploring the island’s stunning waterfalls, including Rainbow Falls and Pe'epe'e Falls.The island celebrates its culture with festivals such as Merrie Monarch Festival, a world-famous hula competition held annually in Hilo, celebrating Hawaiian dance, art, and traditions. Visitors can also explore local markets and enjoy authentic Hawaiian food like poke, laulau, and lomi salmon.Climate and Best Time to VisitThe Big Island has diverse climates due to its varying elevations and terrain. The western side, particularly around Kona, is drier and sunnier, making it ideal for beach activities. The eastern side, especially around Hilo, experiences more rain, resulting in lush landscapes and vibrant rainforests.The best time to visit the Big Island is from November to April, during the cooler, drier season. Whale watching is also best during this time, as humpback whales migrate through Hawaiian waters.ConclusionThe Big Island of Hawaii offers an unparalleled mix of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural richness. From witnessing volcanic activity and hiking lush valleys to relaxing on stunning beaches and exploring Hawaiian history, the island provides a truly diverse and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, the Big Island delivers a unique blend of the best that Hawaii has to offer.

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Hawaii Travel Agent Specialist

I started my journey on Oahu, excited to explore the famous beaches. My first stop was Waikiki Beach. As I strolled along the shoreline, the soft sand beneath my feet and the sound of waves crashing felt like a dream. I couldn’t resist the temptation to dip my toes in the turquoise water, feeling the gentle pull of the tide. I spent the afternoon lounging under a palm tree, watching surfers ride the waves in the distance.Later, I decided to hike Diamond Head. The trail was steep but the views from the top were absolutely worth it. As I reached the summit, I stood in awe of the panoramic vista—emerald mountains, the sparkling ocean, and the sprawling city below. I took a moment to breathe it all in, feeling grateful for this incredible experience.Next, I hopped on a tour to visit Pearl Harbor. Standing at the memorial and gazing down at the USS Arizona, I felt a deep sense of reverence. The stories of bravery and sacrifice shared by our guide resonated with me, and I left with a renewed appreciation for history.On my second day, I took a scenic drive to the North Shore. The lush landscapes and stunning coastal views made each turn of the road feel like a postcard. I stopped at famous spots like Waimea Bay and watched surfers tackle some of the biggest waves. The energy was electric, and I savored a refreshing shave ice from a local stand—definitely a sweet highlight!In the evenings, I indulged in Hawaiian cuisine. I couldn’t resist trying poke, kalua pork, and the delightful loco moco. Each dish was a burst of flavor, and dining outdoors while listening to live Hawaiian music made it even more special.On my last day in Oahu, I took a catamaran cruise. We sailed along the coast, the sun setting on the horizon, painting the sky with shades of pink and orange. As we cruised, I spotted dolphins swimming alongside the boat, and I couldn’t help but grin from ear to ear.Next, I flew to Maui, where I was eager to explore the famous Road to Hana. The winding drive took us through lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking coastal views. I stopped at various points along the way, hiking to secret waterfalls and snapping photos of the vibrant scenery. By the time I reached Hana, I felt like I had been transported to another world.One of the highlights of my Maui trip was witnessing the sunrise at Haleakala National Park. I woke up before dawn and made my way up the mountain. As the sun peeked over the horizon, the sky erupted in colors I had never seen before—deep purples, fiery oranges, and soft pinks. It was a moment of pure magic that I knew I would carry with me forever.Before I left Maui, I squeezed in some snorkeling at Molokini Crater. The underwater world was a kaleidoscope of colors—vibrant fish darting around coral formations, all while the sunlight danced above the surface. It felt like swimming in an aquarium, and I lost track of time as I floated among the sea life.As my trip came to an end, I took a moment to reflect on my experiences. Hawaii had offered me not just stunning landscapes and delicious food, but also a sense of connection to nature and a slower pace of life.

My Reviews

The best trip of our lives!

Can't thank you enough for organizing the trip of our lives! We are still talking about it 3 months later!

By Henry from Washington, DC
Traveled to Jamaica ~ Caribbean

I would recommend this agent to my family and friends