Hawaii has it all when it comes to nature and heritage; the world’s tallest sea mountain, active volcanoes, former seat of a royal kingdom, beaches and surf unmatched anywhere else in the world and the birthplace of surfing and the hula!

But what we love most about this island is its people who embody the warmth of their islands with their Aloha Spirit! They live primarily in six major islands: Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, and Hawaii’s Big Island, and in each island you will find a distinct identity with its own adventures!!!

Hawaii’s Big Island
Named such for a reason, Hawaii’s Big Island is not only bigger than all of the other islands combined; it also holds eleven of the world’s 13 climatic zones from sandy beaches to snowcapped mountains!

A visit to Hawaii’s Big Island can be a humbling experience, and this is why:

Hawaii Volcanoes
Kileaua Volcano is the world’s most active volcano in the world continuously erupting since 1983, Mauna Loa which is also the world’s most massive mountain last erupted in 1984 and Loihi located underwater off the southern coast of Hawaii's Big Island has been erupting since 1996; adding a ninth island to Hawaii in 250,000 years!

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is one of the very few places on earth where visitors can come face to face with active volcanoes! Besides the 2 active volcanoes located inside the park, you will also find 150 miles of hiking trails through volcanic craters, scalded deserts, and rainforests as well as a museum, petroglyphs, and a walk-in lava tube!

Kileaua Volcano
Kileaua Volcano is the most popular visitor attraction in Hawaii and is also a sacred place for native Hawaiians. This prolific volcano currently produces 250,000-650,000 cubic yards of lava per day, enough to resurface a 20-mile-long, two-lane road daily!

Mauna Kea
Yes, it does snow in Hawaii!!!! Mauna Kea means ‘white mountain’ in Hawaiian, because at 13,796 feet above sea level and over 33,000 feet from the bottom of the ocean floor, its peaks are often blanketed with snow in the winter months. Mauna Kea is the tallest sea mountain in the world, even taller than Mt. Everest!

It is not impossible to ski here, but it is not for the weak at heart or the less experienced because of the high altitude, extreme conditions, and short season. Instead of skiing, what you can do for an unforgettable experience at Mauna Kea is to travel up the mountain for star gazing!

The high altitude, clear air, and absence of light, Mauna Kea is one of the best places to get lost amongst the stars!

Waipo Valley
For dramatic tropical beauty and a breathtaking nature experience take a guided van tour, a hike or a horseback ride to explore the hidden wonders within Waipo Valley. Whilst enjoying the many waterfalls, taro fields and rivers in the valley, also experience The Big Island's tallest waterfall: Hiilawe Falls as it cascades down 1300 feet.

Puukohola Heiau
Located on the Big Island, Puukohola Heiau is one of the largest heiau (temple) in Hawaii. Heiau were sacred places of worship for ancient Hawaiians and this massive stone temple is believed to be one of the last sacred structures built in the Hawaiian Islands before western influence.

Hilo
Located at the feet of all three volcanoes, the main town of Hawaii’s Big Island; Hilo is a sleepy town looking out towards the beautiful Hilo Bay and is filled with a genuine aloha spirit. Everything about the town can be explored on foot, and in it you will find centuries-old wooden storefronts housing surprisingly sophisticated galleries, shops, restaurants and cultural sites!

Kona Coast
An ideal place to discover both Hawaiian history and nature! Explore the Puuhonua o Honaunau, Hulihee Palace, and Kaloko-Honokohau National Historic Park and then set off to the calm and clear waters for perfect snorkeling and diving experiences, and for spotting dolphins and green sea turtles.

Visit Kealakekua Bay which marks the death of Captain Cook, and if you are more adventurous, try taking a boat tour to swim with manta rays or go deep-sea fishing for giant Pacific Blue Marlin.

Get back to land, and find hundreds of coffee plantations in the cooler upper lands and sample Kona’s unique, aromatic bean.

Getting to Hawaii’s Big Island
There are two main airports at Hawaii’s Big Island: Kona International Airport (KOA) and Hilo International Airport (ITO). You can get direct flights from mainland U.S. to Kona, but most flights arrive from Honolulu International Airport (HNL) on Oahu.

Traveling on Hawaii’s Big Island
To get the most out of your visit, consider renting a car or taking a bus tour in order to more conveniently explore the island. Other options include shuttles and taxis. The Hele-On Bus provides bus service between Kona and Hilo.

When to go
Any time of year is a good time to visit Hawaii’s Big Island!!! The average temperature ranges from 75˚-85˚ F. The summer however, which falls between April and November is warmer and drier than the winter season which falls between December and March and which tend to be a bit cooler. Within the island, the Kona side is sunnier and drier, while the Hilo side is wetter and more tropical.

Other helpful informationLanguages: Both English and Hawaiian is used here.

Money: The currency is US dollars, and credit card payments are also widely accepted

Tipping: U.S. standards apply for tipping: 15-20% on meals, at least $1 per bag for porters, and at least $1 per night for housekeeping.