The Big Island of Hawaiʻi (aka Hawai'i Island)is one of the most fascinatingly surreal places on Earth. Twice the size of all the other Hawaiian Islands combined yet home to only about 125,000 residents, it delivers outsized drama and excitement.

Along the island’s southeastern shore, Kīlauea volcano continues its eerie, elemental work, steadily adding new coastline to the map. At the island’s heart rise two colossal volcanic mountains—Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa—each soaring more than 13,680 feet above sea level. Mauna Loa, the largest volcano on Earth, measures over 32,000 feet from ocean floor to summit, making it taller than Mount Everest. Mauna Kea, meanwhile, is the tallest island-based mountain in the world, a distinction that explains why space-faring nations from around the globe have placed observatories at its summit.

For visitors, there are two primary areas to stay. The first is the region surrounding Kailua-Kona, the island’s lively west-side hub. About 30 miles north lies the Kohala Coast, home to several major resorts, led by the venerable Waikoloa Beach Resort. Just above the coast sits Waikoloa Village, offering a mix of condominiums and private homes. On the island’s eastern side—roughly 40 minutes uphill from Hilo—are Volcano Village and the extraordinary Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, where the planet’s raw power is on full display.

Whether your goal is deep relaxation or immersive sightseeing, The Big Island truly offers something for everyone. From the otherworldly landscapes of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park to thunderous waterfalls; from beaches of beige, black, and green sand to scenic coastal highways; from macadamia nut farms and coffee plantations to some of the largest ranches in the world—the variety is astonishing. Add deep-sea fishing, hikes ranging from gentle strolls to demanding treks, world-class golf, exceptional lodging, and standout dining, and the Big Island delivers at every turn.

A personal story perhaps best captures the Big Island experience. Several years ago, I brought my parents to see the moon-like lava landscapes that stretch across much of the island’s western side. As we drove north from Kona Airport (KOA) toward the Kohala Coast, passing mile after mile of stark, foreboding lava fields, my mother finally asked, “Are we really spending ten days here?” Ten days later, as our plane lifted off from Hilo Airport, she posed a very different question: “When are we coming back?”

Airports:

• Keahole-Kona (KOA)
• Hilo International (ITO)

Major City/Town:

• Hilo
• Kailua-Kona
• Kamuela-Waimea

Man-made attractions:

• Hawi town
• Hulihe'e Palace
• Painted Church
• Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden

Mostly nature-made attractions:

• Hawaii Volcanoes Nat'l Park
• Pololu Valley
• Kealakekua Bay & Refuge
• South Point
• Hapuna Beach State Park
• Green Sand Beach
• Punalu'u Black Sand Beach
• Rainbow Falls
• Akaka Falls
• Waipi'o Valley

---

Family Vacations in Hawaii

Plan your next golf vacation in the Hawaiian Islands. We can suggest Big Island packages that include  accommodations, car rentals, golf and all kinds of activities. We know the Hawaiian Islands and can give you the best advice on the attractions you want to see. Enjoy the beauty of Maui, Oahu, Kauai and The Big Island. Are you hoping to Visit Kailua-Kona, Hilo, Hawi, Volcano Village and other Big Island towns and cities? You can take Hawaii tours, go Hiking, do Sport Fishing, Food Tours, and Sunset Cruises among other fun activities. Make your Hawaii golf vacation a priority and enjoy a holiday that will revitalize your spirit and rekindle your love of life.