Big Island’s Best Towns
Explore Big Island’s vibrant heart. Experience urban bustle, culture, and hospitality in the dynamic town of Hilo.
Featured Big Island Town: Kailua Kona
Experience the sun-soaked charm of Kailua-Kona, Big Island’s bustling seaside town. Delve into Hawaiian history, savor world-famous Kona coffee, and explore vibrant waterfront locales.
Big Island’s Towns
From the charming Hilo with its vibrant markets to the scenic Kailua-Kona with its historic landmarks, every town on the Big Island exudes its unique character and allure. Our guide will take you through the Big Island’s most delightful towns, where you can savor local delicacies, browse local art, and experience the genuine Aloha spirit.
Kealakekua
Discover Kealakekua, Big Island’s gem, where history meets natural beauty. Snorkel in pristine Kealakekua Bay, explore Captain Cook Monument, and hike scenic trails.
Hilo
Discover Hilo’s charm on Hawaii’s Big Island, where lush rainforests, stunning waterfalls, and rich cultural heritage create an unforgettable experience.
Kapaau
Experience the authentic Hawaiian charm of Kapaau, Big Island, with its rich history, iconic King Kamehameha I statue, and vibrant art-filled downtown.
Pahoa
Explore Pahoa’s unique charm on Hawaii’s Big Island: stroll its historic main street, visit lava-formed tree molds, and unwind in geothermally heated pools.
Keauhou
Explore Keauhou’s rich history, home to Hawaiian royalty, and enjoy pristine beaches, snorkeling adventures, and kayak tours to Captain Cook Monument.
Holualoa
Experience the charm of Holualoa, Big Island’s artistic hub, and immerse yourself in its vibrant art scene, world-famous Kona coffee farms, and rich history.
Kawaihae
Experience Kawaihae’s captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Explore the majestic Pu’ukoholā Heiau temple and spot humpback whales in the winter.
Laupahoehoe
Experience Laupahoehoe’s breathtaking coastline, dramatic lava rock formations, and rich history at Laupahoehoe Point Beach Park and Train Museum.
Waimea (Kamuela)
Discover Waimea’s lush landscapes, rich paniolo heritage, and vibrant culture on Hawaii’s Big Island. Enjoy rodeos, horseback riding, and the annual Cherry Blossom Festival.
Kailua-Kona
Experience the sun-soaked charm of Kailua-Kona, Big Island’s bustling seaside town. Delve into Hawaiian history, savor world-famous Kona coffee, and explore vibrant waterfront locales.
Ocean View
Discover Ocean View on Hawaii’s Big Island, where diverse landscapes, lava fields, and panoramic ocean views provide a unique and serene island experience.
Hawi
Explore Hawi, Big Island’s hidden gem, for an authentic Hawaiian experience. Delight in its rich history, plantation-era architecture, and thriving local art scene.
Captain Cook
Discover Captain Cook, a charming Hawaiian town with a rich history. Visit coffee farms, snorkel in Kealakekua Bay, and explore the Captain Cook Monument.
Honokaa
Experience the authentic charm of Honokaa on Hawaii’s Big Island, where plantation-era architecture meets stunning Waipio Valley vistas and vibrant local culture.
Pahala
Experience Pahala’s rich history and culture on Hawaii’s Big Island, home to plantation-era architecture, world-class Ka’u Coffee Mill, and gateway to Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park.
Waikoloa
Experience Waikoloa’s breathtaking beauty on Hawaii’s Big Island: pristine beaches, championship golf courses, and ancient petroglyphs await you.
Pepeekeo
Explore Pepeekeo’s lush landscapes on the Hamakua Coast, Big Island. Delight in the scenic Pepeekeo Drive, Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve, and majestic Umauma Falls.
Honomu
Experience the charm of Honomu, a plantation-era town on Hawaii’s Big Island, and explore the breathtaking Akaka Falls State Park for a glimpse into old Hawaii’s beauty.
Hakalau
Discover Hakalau, Big Island’s hidden gem, where adventure, history, and natural beauty await. Explore lush rainforests, relax on Hakalau Beach, and spot rare birds at the wildlife refuge.
Naalehu
Experience the authentic Hawaiian charm of Naalehu, the southernmost US town. Marvel at stunning ocean views, explore unique sand beaches, and immerse in rich history.
Papaikou
Discover Papaikou, a charming Big Island town near Hilo. Delight in Onomea Bay’s dramatic cliffs, explore the lush Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, and embrace authentic Hawaiian culture.
Volcano
Experience the power of nature in Volcano, Big Island, featuring the awe-inspiring Kīlauea and Mauna Loa volcanoes. Hike diverse landscapes and witness stunning vistas.
Hawaii’s Essential Information
Dive into Hawaii’s heart with our ‘Essentials’ section, offering knowledge on local culture, history, and environment for an enriched journey.
The Science of the Hawaiian Island Chain’s Movement
Discover Hawaii’s geological wonders, from the awe-inspiring volcanic activity to unique landscapes shaped by plate tectonics and erosion. Experience the islands’ extraordinary beauty.
Hawaii’s Unique Geothermal Pools and Hot Springs
Discover Hawaii’s captivating geothermal pools and hot springs, offering relaxation, cultural connection, and unique experiences like snorkeling in warm tide pools.
The Great Mahele: Land Division in Hawaii’s History
Discover Hawaii’s rich history through the Great Mahele, a pivotal event that transformed land ownership and shaped the islands’ unique culture and landscape.
Hawaii’s Popular Indoor and Outdoor Plants
Explore Hawaii’s lush flora: marvel at vibrant Plumeria, exotic Heliconia, and native Ohia Lehua. Immerse yourself in botanical gardens and nature reserves.
The Importance of Hula Festivals in Hawaii
Discover the captivating world of hula at Hawaii’s vibrant festivals, where ancient traditions come alive through mesmerizing performances and immersive workshops.
Hawaii’s Unique Geckos and Their Role in Pest Control
Discover Hawaii’s vibrant geckos, natural pest controllers that contribute to a healthy ecosystem. Observe responsibly and support conservation efforts.
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