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2020
16
September
Where can you find the best hidden gems on Hawaii's big island in March?
16
September
Question:
Humans say...
Tricia
Helicopter tours are a favourite for us on all the islands. We did one out of Kona in 2019. Really cool to see the volcanos, waterfalls and ocean (and the numerous topographies of the Big Island) from the air. Pricey, but worth it!
Lise
If you like snorkeling, check out Two Step south if Captain Cook area. There’s a beautiful beach at the Mauna Kea Resort and they allow a certain number of cars per day to park in their beach parking lot, so you can use their beach.
Explore the black sand beach down south on the way to Volcanos National Park. There is also a nice waterfall north of Hilo.
Cheryl
Best investment I made. Great book to help plan your holiday. https://www.amazon.ca/Hawaii-Big-Island.../dp/1949678105
AMAZON.CA
Hawaii the Big Island Revealed: The Ultimate Guidebook
Margot
Cheryl agree totally have them for all the islands now.
View
Debi
Definitely do the Manta ray night dive. You can snorkel if you are not a scuba diver
Robyn
Debi agree with this - it’s a bucket list experience for sure.
Sarah
Debi do you have specific tour company you recommend?
Debi
Sarah I think we went with Kona Dive company. I would go with the ones that take divers and snorkelers.
Donna
Debi night snorkel with manta rays was one of my favourite things ever! Snorkeling at 2 step beach, Volcanos National Park, Botanical Garden near Hilo, BlCk Sand Beach, South Point, Beach with lots of turtles called Punalu’u. Wailing Valley, Moana Loa Visitors centre at night.
Duane
I have a friend there with helicopter. He will fly u right into volcano
Sarah
Duane what’s his company name?
Duane
Sarah I will try find it for u
Maureen
Duane who has the helicopter. Sounds cool!
Jean
We took our GPS with us and picked up a beach map at Walmart. Found some really neat spots this way, quite a lot quieter than the more well known spots.
Christin
Take a jeep trip to the top of Mauna Kea. You will feel like you’re on top of the world.
Kelsey
Hike to the green sand beach. And visit volcano national park
Marina
FYI the park pass is valid for a week. So you can pop in and out!
Blake
Having a Jeep on the big island is a hoot. A lot easier to get to some of the rougher beaches like Green Sand or up to the Visitors Centre on Mauna Loa (go to see the night sky but take warm clothes and mittens).
Rita
We did a kayak/snorkeling trip to Captain Cook bay. This was a highlight for me, the snorkeling was like being dropped into a giant salt water fish tank. Saw a couple of whales breach also. We were there in March.
Erica
Agreed with Rita we did Captain Cook bay. Best snorkeling I’ve ever seen. We hiked to the spot but you can also do a paid tour where they boat you to the spot.
Renata
From my travel list:
HAWAII
Rainbow Falls, the Big Island - Hilo
•Thurston Lava tube & Volcano National Park
•Boat tour to see lava flow
•Punaluu Black Sand Beach (turtles)
•Punaluu Bake Shop (sweet bread & Malasadas)
•Flumin’ Kohala, Hawaii
•Kona Coffee- souvenir growler
•Kona Brewing Company
•Da Poke Shack (11 ish - go early)
•Night snorkel with manta rays - Manta Ray Dives of Hawaii
•Manta (best brunch buffet)
•Umekes Fishmarket (poke)
•Daylight mind coffee co
•Scandinavian Shave Ice
•kayak with Dolphins at Captain Cook Monument (Kealakekua Bay)
Tim
We did a 2 day drive to go completely around the island. Stayed overnight at the residential area of the biggest ranch there, somewhere along the north end. We rented the former ranch manager’s house for the night. Really cool experience
John
Parker Ranch worth a look. Seahorse farm
Atash
Climb the volcano
Sarah
Waipio Valley!! It’s absolutely stunning and a great hike
Sarah
Hilo farmers market
Sarah
Makalawena beach - it’s gorgeous
Cat
If your Jeep is covered/okay by rental company (check!), the drive up Moana Loa for sunset/stars is amazing!
Edmond
Rent a boat and go visit Japan. Just a few days away.
Lynette
Volcanoes national park in daylight and in evening
Renee
In Hilo you have to do the botanical gardens, it's amazing, we did it in the pouring rain and it was totally still worth it
Vicki
The Octopus Farm and swimming with the Manta Rays!
A.I. says...
Exploring the Big Island of Hawaii
With your accommodations in Kona and Hilo, and a Jeep rented, you are all set for an amazing adventure on the Big Island of Hawaii! Here are some suggestions on what to do and see:
Volcanoes National Park
No trip to the Big Island is complete without visiting the Volcanoes National Park. Witness the raw power of nature as you explore the Kilauea Caldera, hike through the Thurston Lava Tube, and marvel at the steam vents and sulfur banks. Don't miss the chance to see the glowing lava flows at night, if conditions permit.
Waipi'o Valley
Insider Tip:
Be sure to have your Jeep in 4-wheel drive mode when descending into the Waipi'o Valley. The road is steep and can be challenging, but the views from the bottom are breathtaking.
Waipi'o Valley is a lush, verdant oasis nestled between towering cliffs. Take a leisurely hike along the black sand beach, explore the taro fields, and enjoy the stunning waterfalls cascading down the valley walls.
Punalu'u Black Sand Beach
This unique beach, with its striking black sand and the occasional basking Hawaiian green sea turtle, is a must-visit. Pack a picnic and spend some time soaking up the sun and enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
Kona Coffee Farm Tours
Being in the Kona area, you have the opportunity to learn about the cultivation and processing of the world-famous Kona coffee. Take a tour of a coffee farm, sample different varieties, and perhaps even try your hand at picking some beans.
Snorkeling and Diving
The clear, warm waters surrounding the Big Island offer some of the best snorkeling and diving opportunities in Hawaii. Explore the vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, or even swim with the majestic manta rays at night.
With a week on the Big Island, you'll have ample time to experience the diverse landscapes, natural wonders, and cultural richness of this incredible destination. Don't forget to pack your sense of adventure and create lifelong memories!
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Maureen
Going to Hawaii, big island in March for a week. Have accommodations in Kona area and Hilo. Suggestions on what to do and see? We have a Jeep rented and want to see and do lots! Thanks!