Hawaii: A Guide to the Big Island
When planning a trip to the Hawaiian Islands, a lot of people immediately look to Honolulu on the island Oahu as their vacation destination. While there are certainly lots of amazing things to see and do on Oahu, today I want to talk about the Big Island of Hawaii and why its worth visiting on your tropical getaway.
You will catch plenty of dolphins if you take a whalewatching tour here
The Big Island of Hawaii is exactly what it sounds like: the largest of the Hawaiian islands and the most well-known by name. However, it receives far fewer visitors than the island of Oahu, which makes it a great place to see some things that your friends might not even know about, like Volcanoes National Park. This incredible and unique place is a must-see for anyone coming to the Big Island, as you will be sure to see lava flowing out of the craters that give the park its name.
At Pu’uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park (a mouthful, I know) on the west side of the island, you can learn some history about the native inhabitants of the Hawaiian islands and even get a chance to spot a sea turtle nesting on the beach. Just be sure to have your camera ready because you will not be allowed to get too close if one of these beautiful animals shows up.
Lava flows out of the ground at Volcanoes National Park
Other activities to catch while you’re visiting include a traditional Luau, which are hosted at almost every hotel on the island and feature a feast of native foods and culture, and a whale watching tour as long as you don’t get too seasick. And no matter where you are on the Big Island, you will be able to spot the iconic Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, volcanic mountains that tower over everything and created the island itself. Everywhere you look, a beautiful photo is just waiting to be taken!