The geographic diversity on the Big Island allows for incredible scenic and sightseeing experiences no matter where you go. No other place on Earth provides world-renowned stargazing, up-close lava viewing, stunning waterfalls, and scenic drives through dense rainforests and arid deserts. There is no corner of Hawaii Island without an incredible sight to see and exploring all of our Big Island sights is the best part of any island adventure.
If youʻre looking for history, Big Island sightseeing includes incredible historic villages, religious sites and the island was home to generations of Aliʻi (Hawaiian royalty) with fascinating stories to tell. The rich history of the island is encompassed in several National and State Parks that are definitely worth a visit on your sightseeing adventures.
Natural beauty abounds in Hawaii and Big Island sightseeing will take you from the 14,000 foot volcanic mountain tops of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa to the depths of the blue Pacific Ocean to catch a glimpse of it all. If you are looking for stunning vistas, every road on the Big Island leads to a new sightseeing adventure and the number of beautiful scenic drives is only limited by the length of your visit and the toughness of your vehicle.
From fresh lava fields to tropical botanical gardens, the sheer diversity of Big Island sightseeing will keep you guessing at what you will encounter each day of your visit. Because of the size of the Big Island, our advice is to prioritize your most important, must see places on the Big Island then plan a full dayʻs activity in that area or region. This will give you plenty of time to explore the many destinations on the Big Island without having to zip back and forth, saving yourself drive time that you can then spend on more sightseeing or relaxing.
keep exploring
The Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve and Garden is a 40-acre natural garden of tropical plants and a nature lover’s paradise located in the Onomea Valley.
The 2022 Ironman World Championship was another one for the record books!
Teeming with protected and endangered species, Ocean Rider Seahorse Farm allows you and your family to see and interact with these unique animals.
Fly high on a parasail and enjoy an awe inspiring bird’s eye view hundreds of feet above the Big Island’s Kona Coast.
The 2021 Ironman World Championship was held in St. George, Utah on May 7, 2022.
No visit to the Big Island is complete without heading out to see molten lava. There are many ways to see the flows but a Lava Boat tour is a real treat.
The Waipio Valley Shuttle is an easy and safe way to explore the wondrous “Valley of the Kings” along the northeastern end of the Big Island, the tour offers a once-in-a-lifetime sightseeing experience.
The Waipio Valley is a stunning scenic destination with a black sand beach, beautiful waterfalls and Hawaiian historical & cultural significance.
With intense volcanic activity over millions of years, there are hundreds of lava tubes, caves, and volcanic formations to explore on the Big Island.
A place of both historic and natural importance, Kealakekua Bay along the Big Island’s western coast is a remarkable spot to hike, snorkel and see the sights.
Mauna Kea is the tallest sea mountain in the world, offering unprecedented views of the heavens above. So get ready for some stargazing like you’ve never seen before.
This 12 acre zoo and garden offers a fun and free family activity in Hilo, Hawaii and is celebrated as the only naturally, occurring tropical rainforest zoo in the United States.
Thurston Lava Tube, dating back 350-500 years is an exemplar example of the many lava caves on the Big Island formed by continual volcanic activity.
Na’alapa Stables and their unique take on Big Island horseback riding provides an incredible opportunity for adventurous visitors to enjoy the beauty and grace of Hawaii.
Experience the Big Island’s volcanic activity, a miracle of nature that isn’t found elsewhere on planet Earth. Hawaii provides incredible access to see the red glow of molten lava.
The Big Island experienced an eruption of Kilauea during the summer of 2018, marking some of the most significant seismic activity in decades.
Mauna Kea is the highest point in the state of Hawaii, that’s why it’s so important to stay safe and take every precaution before venturing up the summit.
A highly regarded scientific site, Mauna Kea is one of the world’s most important astronomical research centers, allowing mankind a portal to see the Universe.
The alpine environment that lies below Mauna Kea is home to startlingly unique and ruggedly-beautiful flora and fauna that you can’t find anywhere else.
There are two major hikes on Mauna Kea that attract most hikers: The full Mauna Kea Summit Trail and a shorter hike to Lake Waiau, both are amazing.
The Valley of the Kings is a stunning place, brimming with history and Hawaiian cultural significance.
For those interested in the unique and exciting nature of Hawaiian volcanoes, the Thomas A. Jaggar Museum offers a detailed and interesting exhibit.
A familiar name among the Hawaiian tourism industry, a tour with Robert’s Hawaii promises a safe and exciting tour experience at an affordable price.
Sunshine Helicopters is a Big Island institution in the aerial tour industry, offering incredible views of the greatest natural attractions on the Island of Hawaii.
Spanning throughout the Big Island’s most notable natural attractions, Paradise Helicopters offers luxury aerial tour experiences the whole family can enjoy.
Nani Mau, meaning Forever Beautiful, is a gorgeous botanical garden with fruit orchards, orchids, ginger and hibiscus gardens as well as an anthurium grove.
Locally-owned and operated right on Hawaii’s Big Island, Wasabi Tours does things different. With expert guides and ever-changing adventures, you’ll be as excited as you’ll be blown away.
This colorful botanical garden is home to many lovely plants, roaming peacocks and unique sculptural elements located around the grounds.
Home to gorgeous valleys, exotic plants, and the heart of waterfall country, the Hamakua Coast is a breathtaking adventure waiting to happen.
If you’re visiting the Kona Area, here are the state and national parks you should see to gain a taste of Hawaii’s culture and unique natural wonders.
As you cruise around the Big Island taking in the sights, consider taking one of these incredible scenic drives.
Easily accessible and with plenty of scenic lookouts, you’ll want to check out these amazing hiking and walking trails in Volcanoes National Park.
For those seeking an adventurous alternative to the typical tourist activities, a horseback riding tour with Paniolo Adventures promises a unique look at rural Hawaiian life.
For history buffs and those fascinated by Hawaiian culture, the Big Island has many fascinating attractions to visit.
The cultural and historical significance of the Kailua-Kona area simply can’t be missed. Make sure to see these historical sites on your stroll through town.
When the lava reaches the ocean, Hawaii lava boat tours are an unforgettable experience that brings you to the incredible ocean entry of the lava flows for an impressive view.
