Aloha! The Big Island in Hawaii is a magical retreat and ideal for anyone looking to escape their everyday life, into a magical, unique oasis! From other-worldly beaches to national parks and cultural entertainment like luaus, The Big Island is a great place for your next vacation retreat. We recommend kicking off your trip with a 2-night stay on the Kona side of the Big Island, followed by an evening in Kulaniapia Falls, and wrapping up your retreat with two more nights spent back in Kona for a luau. Continue reading for the perfect 5-day itinerary, and vacation Guide for your next trip to The Big Island!

Day 1-5 for what to do on the Big Island for your Vacation:

Day 1: Head To The Beaches In Kona, Hawaii

Kona is situated on the sunny, West Coast side of The Big Island. Known for its sandy white beaches, Kona is also a site of many historical events, including it being where Captain James Cook first set foot on the island in 1778 and where he was eventually killed.

For those interested in snorkeling, Kahalu’u Beach is home to beautiful coral reefs and tropical fish. You can expect to run into marine life such as l octopuses, eels, sea urchins, and honu (sea turtles) during your underwater explorations. If you are looking to relax at the best white sand beaches on the Big Island, head to Manini’owali Beach at Kua Bay, a small, secluded, sunshine oasis great for boogie boarding or just relaxing in the sun. Lastly, Kikaua Point Beach Park, which can be accessed through the Kukio Golf Resort, is an ideal option for a day at the beach for those with children and elderly folks! The water is a shallow, lagoon-like area, making swimming or snorkeling easily accessible. The areas surrounding the water are filled with picnic tables, so be sure to pack some snacks! This is a great way to relax on your first day on the Big Island for your vacation.

Day 2: The Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve and Garden

Visit The Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve and Garden, a non-profit botanical garden and nature preserve, which includes 4 miles of. A bio reserve is a protected area that preserves endangered species of flora and fauna. Experience the tropics when you visit the garden and find yourself immersed in Hawaiian nature. Learn about the species at the bio reserve, and gain a better understanding of Hawaii’s lush wildlife. This activity is a great sensory experience for families with young children, as all will take pleasure in Hawaii's unbelievable natural plant-life.

Day 3: Go Water Rappelling at Kulaniapia Falls

For an awe-inspiring adventure, head to Kulaniapia Falls, the largest privately accessible waterfall on the Big Island! This unique waterfall is located in Hilo, and it’s the perfect place to experience an adrenaline-inducing adventure, while also being immersed in The Big Island’s lush, natural environment. Water rappelling involves descending down a steep slope, typically a rock or waterfall.

Be sure to enjoy the fruit of your labor by going for a victory swim when you make it down to the bottom of the Kulaniapia Falls! When you’ve finished water rappelling, be sure to check out the other activities offered at Kulaniapia Falls. From kayaking, and paddle boarding, to cooking classes and fine dining, this hidden gem has a plethora of activities available to guests when you purchase their day pass!

Day 4: Visit The Volcano National Park

Conclude your vacation trip to The Big Island by visiting Hawaii’s signature landmarks, and volcanoes. Extending from sea level to 13,680 feet, the Volcano National park includes the summits of two of the world's most active volcanoes - Kīlauea and Mauna Loa. While visiting the National park, you can choose to take a short walk or opt for a wilderness adventure or tour, or driving tour.

Day 5: Attend A Luau on the Big Island

We recommend spending a late afternoon or evening attending a luau at The Voyagers of The Pacific, which is located at The Royal Kona Resort. You will find yourself amazed as you watch talented entertainers perform Polynesia’s most dangerous dance. Situated at the edge of the ocean, you can watch a stunning sunset descend while making memories with members of The Big Island community. For dinner, enjoy a succulent roasted pig, traditional Hawaiian dishes, and an open bar, all while celebrating Hawaiian culture. This is an opportunity to be immersed in Hawaiian culture on the Big Island during your vacation.

The 5-Day Vacation Itinerary of what to do when you are on the Big Island

The Big Island is a magical vacation place, with activities that can be enjoyed by the whole family, from relaxing beach days at Hawaii’s one-of-a-kind white sandy beaches, to culturally immersive entertainment like Luaus, the Big Island is where you should plan your next vacation! Follow this itinerary for an all-encompassing experience for a 5-day Hawaii experience.

Mahalo!

5 Day Itinerary, Vacation Guide on the Big Island