Personal blog about states
the island of Hawai’i
The western coast of the Big Island is known as the “ Kona Side”, and Kailua- Kona is the lively center of it all.
The Hawaii Island
The Island of Hawaii, more often simply referred to as the Big Island , is famous for its incredible natural attractions, especially the volcanoes that have shaped and continue to shape the landscape. Originally formed by five volcanoes, the island still continues to grow as the active Kilauea spews lava into the ocean.
Kona is also famous for its deep-sea fishing, hosting the International Billfish Tournament (August) every year. And on land, don’t forget to travel to the cooler upland slopes of town like Holualoa, where you can sample the distinctive flavors of 100% Kona coffee, which is what Kona is famous for !
The Big Island is the third most visited in Hawaii and offers accommodation for all budgets. It tends to be cheaper than Maui and it has two very different sides: Kona (west side) and Hilo (east side). In Kona there are many resorts and hotels with prices usually a bit higher than in Hilo.
From West to East of the Big Island You’ll likely want to split your stay between Kailua-Kona on the west side and Hilo (or Volcano) on the east side during your trip. This will alleviate a lot of extra driving and allow you to experience both sides of the island.
Hawaii Island Travel Guide: Where to Stay on the Big Island Mauna Kea Beach Hotel . Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii . Four Seasons Resort Hualalai. Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection. Royal Kona Resort. Wyndham Kona Hawaiian Resort. Courtyard Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel . Hilton Waikoloa Village.
Hilo is more affordable and has more local character. Hilo definitely feels less touristy than Kona , which is a good thing. Hilo has some great rainforests and waterfalls in the area, so it’s a good place for hiking and other outdoor activities. The Hilo side gets a lot more rain than Kona , so consider that as well.
Hāpuna beach on the Big Island is consistently voted among the ‘ best beaches of the world’. It also is one of our favorite beaches on Hawaii because of the long white sand beach , easy parking and good facilities. Great for swimming and snorkeling, some hikes available.
Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport
The Big Island of Hawaii is the third most popular choice by visitors, with over 1.6 million travelers annually. The vast majority of the Big Island’s visitors stay in the Kailua- Kona area with its fantastic weather, abundant shopping, and the vast array of dining options.
Best Things To Do in Hawaii – The Big Island #1. Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. #1 in Hawaii – The Big Island . #2. Akaka Falls State Park. #2 in Hawaii – The Big Island . #3. Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park. #3 in Hawaii – The Big Island . #4. Waipio Valley. #5. Kaunaoa Beach. #6. Anaehoomalu Beach. #7. Hilo Farmers Market. #8. Hapuna Beach State Park.
So that being said, here’s my list of what to do on the big , Big Island . Akaka Falls State Park. Skyline Eco Adventures Akaka Falls. Punalu’u Black Sand Beach Park. Hawaii Volcano National Park. Kaloko-Honokohau National Park. Papakolea Beach. Mauna Kea. Hamakua Mushrooms.