4 best day trips from Big Island (Hawaiʻi)

Day trips compared

The day trips

155 km (96 mi) · About 2.5 hours each way by car

1.Volcano day from Kona

A long loop from Kona via the south takes in Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach and Nāʻālehu's bakeries on the way to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, returning over the Saddle Road. Start early to have a full afternoon in the park.

Getting there

Hire car via the southern route, or a guided tour

Best for

First-timers, Families

120 km (75 mi) · About 1.5–2 hours each way by car

2.Hilo and the Hāmākua Coast from Kona

Drive to Hilo via Waimea along the Hāmākua Coast, stopping at gulch viewpoints, ʻAkaka Falls and the Hawaiʻi Tropical Bioreserve and Garden, then explore Hilo's gardens and farmers market before returning over the Saddle Road.

Getting there

Hire car

Best for

Families, Culture

80 km (50 mi) · About 1.25 hours each way by car

3.North Kohala and Pololū Valley

Drive up the Kohala Coast, then through Hāwī and Kapaʻau to the end of the road at the Pololū Valley lookout. Return over the scenic Kohala Mountain Road to Waimea for dinner.

Getting there

Hire car

Best for

Couples, Quiet stays

125 km (78 mi) · About 2 hours each way by car

4.South Point and Green Sand Beach

Ka Lae (South Point) is the southernmost point of the United States, with cliffs, a wind farm and ancient fishing canoe moorings. From here, a walk leads to Papakōlea's green sand.

Getting there

Hire car

Best for

Solo travellers, Quiet stays

Day-trip tips

• Leave early: most trips are more relaxed with a morning departure and a return before dinner.
• The county's Hele-On bus runs a limited network between towns, useful for budget travellers but not for reaching most sights.
• For trips over about 240 km, an overnight stay or an organised tour saves a lot of travelling.

Questions travellers ask