The Ultimate Big Island Hawaii Road Trip

When I was living on Oahu my friends and I took advantage of several long weekends paired with a little leave in order to do some island hopping. TBH I was least excited for the Big Island (Actually named Hawaii'); as a pilot, I had flown through Hilo and Kona weekly and the rocky lava shores seemed lackluster in comparison to the lushness of Kauai and Maui. Oh, boy was I wrong, to this day the adventures of Big Island hold a lions-share piece of my heart.

This guide was written for one of my good friends to try and encompass my favorite road trip paired with a few additional suggestions. Some things may have changed, I believe the lava flow from Kilauea ceased in 2018. If you have any questions let me know and I’ll be happy to help where I can.

Day 1:

Fly into Kona Kula Kai Cavers( TT 1:20 hours): Guided tour through Hawaii’s underground caves. We did this as a big group and it was an awesome and educational experience, the hosts were amazing. Book this tour!

The Southernmost point at Ka Lae & Papakōlea Green sand beaches( TT 0:30):

Cliff jumped off the Southernmost tip of Hawaii and the US from a height of approximately 40 feet. To get back up there is a metal ladder or alternatively, it is possible to climb through the cave (the cave is super badass and the water is normally very clear) directly below depending on the tide and your personal swimming/ climbing abilities. The green sand beaches require a slight walk or off-road drive(locals sell rides in their trucks). Greensand jewelry is sold in the parking lot and the jumping point.

Punalu'u Bake Shop( TT 0:30 min)Fresh Malasadas, sandwiches & chill vibes. Stop here!

Punalu’u Black sand beach( TT 0:15 min)

This isn’t the best swimming beach but the black sand and sea turtles deserve a stop. Don’t take the sand or leave rocks, you will get cursed and be sad

Kilauea Military Camp( TT 0:40 min)

Located in the Volcano National Park these cottages are reserved for active duty and retired military for rank-based rates. There are other camping and luxury options available in the area. Of note, the dining options in the area are minimal (aka basically non-existent ) and close very early so plan for this if you elect to do an evening hike to the lava. Stay at KMC!

THE FLOOR IS LAVA! Ok, now time for a hike. To get to the active flow it is about 10-12 miles round trip on a gravel path that can be traversed by bike or foot. We elected to walk because 1. Where did all these people find bikes? 2. It was pitch black on our return hike and I have terrible balance as is. When we went the lava was flowing freely into the ocean and you were able to walk over the hardened pieces (it was SO much closer than I ever imagined) for as long as your shoes didn't melt…Updates on the flow are available on the park’s “What’s going on with the lava?” page

Day 2:

Conscious Culture Café (TT 0:45 MIN) $ Located in Hilo, this local spot has a hippie feel, really good healthy foods, and home-brewed kombucha. Check the menu!

** Hilo would be a great place to spend extra time if you could stay an additional night and extend your trip. Great waterfall hikes, fewer great beaches.**

White Road Hike, Kamuela( TT 1:00) Hawaii’s natural waterslide, as seen on IG! This trail makes up in awesomeness what it lacks in legality… make sure to bring your inflatables! I will spill the tea on this hike in a PM.

Kona( TT 1:30)

At this point, you have driven the entire Coast of Big Island. Pick your price and find a bed in Kailua Kona; for a low-key($) spot we liked “My Hawaii Hostel” because of the location.

If you are traveling to Kona on a busy weekend be sure to book ahead, prices can skyrocket up because there aren’t THAT many options. We once had a group of 10 tired wet adventures drinking at the brewery, debating super expensive low-quality rooms vs sleeping in cars…

Day 3

End of the World Cliff Jumping

Kona Brewing Co, the Original!

Mantas night Dive with Big Island Divers. THE COOLEST DIVE EVER! I have gone with multiple companies and prefer Big Island Divers.

Things you missed: This route hits most of my favorite spot with the exception of Mauna Kea which is one of the worlds biggest and best telescopes with primo star gazing; it can easily be added with a night in Hilo (1:15 hours) or from Kona (1:25 minutes) just make sure your rental car can make the push.