Large Island Street Journey: The Final Three Day Itinerary

Ohi’a lehua flower with snow on Mauna Kea in background. Credit score: Hawai’i Guests Bureau

Welcome to the Large Island!

At over 4,000 sq. miles in space, you may guess how our island obtained its nickname. And one of the simplest ways to discover? Circumventing it by automotive. The Large Island of Hawaii is in contrast to some other place on Earth. Snow-capped mountains meet black sand seashores. Rainforests transition into lava deserts. Historic Hawaiian tradition pulses beneath the floor of each panorama.

In the event you’re quick on time, a 3 day Large Island Street Journey beginning in Kona affords the right probability to discover this various island. Born and raised on the Large Island, I’ve been throughout and love to put in writing about it. No vibrant lights, crowds, or site visitors. Even a brief three days  will allow you to to decelerate and unwind. I can assure that you just’ll wish to keep longer.

There’s components of the island that this itinerary received’t cowl. The Large Island is simply too huge. The Puna and Kohala districts aren’t included as isn’t time to totally discover in three days, nevertheless it’ll provide you with not less than two nice causes to return.

What Makes the Large Island Particular

The Big Island of Hawaii is named the Land of Fireplace and Ice. Contemporary lava gushes from Kilauea Volcano when it erupts. Snow crowns Mauna Kea in the course of the cooler months of December to February.

On the Large Island, now we have Eight of the 13 outlined local weather zones, and seashores with white, black or inexperienced sand.

For historical past followers, that is the island the place British explorer Captain Cook dinner landed in 1778 revealing the Hawaiian Islands to the world. Quickly after that, the natives killed him. The Captain Cook dinner monument is a landmark at Kealakekua Bay in Kona.

It’s the house of King Kamehameha I who was born and died on the island.

This statue of Kamehameha stands in Hilo. Picture credit score: HawaiianScribe

The Large Island is jam-packed filled with issues to do.  Ocean sports activities, mountain climbing, the peace of lush rainforests, historic websites, cultural occasions, or quiet looking in vintage shops and artwork galleries. No matter you determine, you received’t be removed from fascinating eateries and meals stops alongside the way in which.

Beginning Off in Kona

There’s an airport in Kona and in Hilo. I like to recommend flying into Kona Worldwide Airport as extra airways service the city which suggests higher odds of touchdown early within the day to settle in and get began.

On this street journey, you’ll spend one night time in Volcano, an evening in Hilo, and a select your individual journey on the ultimate night time in Waimea or again in Kona earlier than flying out.

Day 1: Kona to Volcano through South Kona and the Southern Coast

Head south by way of the Ka‘ū District to Volcano. You’ll be driving about 100 miles to Hawai‘i Volcanoes Nationwide Park. You received’t enter the park right now, however I might recommend staying within the Volcano space in a single day.

Morning: Kona Espresso Nation & Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau

Contemporary Kona espresso beans.

Begin your day in Kona with a sizzling cup of island-grown espresso. Kona is known for its wealthy, volcanic-soil-grown beans, so seize breakfast and a brew and head to Greenwell Farms. This well-known espresso farm affords hour-long excursions and free java starting at 9 a.m. every day with no reservations required. You’ll learn how the beans get from shrub to cup—effectively value your time, particularly for espresso lovers.

Pu‘uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park: Situated about 22 miles south of Kailua Kona, the Nationwide Park Service operates this 180 acre park. It was as soon as dwelling to historical Hawaiian royalty earlier than the arrival of westerners. It additionally housed a spot of refuge for lawbreakers who had been sentenced to demise if they didn’t attain the sanctuary earlier than being caught. Stroll amongst carved picket ki‘i (statues), stone platforms, and reconstructed hale (thatched huts), with the sound of waves crashing on the lava rock shores. You possibly can simply spend a few hours on a self-guided tour and observing cultural demonstrations. It’s open every day from 8:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m.

Hawaiian ki’i or statues of historical gods. Puuhonua o Honaunau.

Noon: South Level (Non-compulsory Detour on Your Large Island Street Journey)

South Point: That is the midway level between Kailua Kona and Volcano. South Level is the southernmost location in the US and a few historians assume this was the primary touchdown spot for historical navigators through canoe, which is effectively value a cease simply to say you’ve been there. Whereas the drive itself is unremarkable, it’s about 12 miles off the primary freeway and supplies a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean. It’s desolate and windy, and also you’ll cross a couple of farms, cattle, horses, and possibly a meals truck or fruit stand should you’re fortunate. As soon as again on the primary street, you’ll be within the Ka‘ū District.

Sheer cliffs at South Level. Picture credit score: HawaiianScribe

Afternoon: Punalu‘u and Volcano Vineyard

 Punalu‘u Bake Shop is a good place for a leisurely pit cease and lunch and to snag some souvenirs. The bakery is superb – get some malasadas (Portuguese buns), their well-known candy bread, and favorites like eclairs, turnovers and cheesecake. Order a plate lunch and eat exterior within the tropical backyard. They’re open every day from 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Punalu‘u Black Sand Beach – A spotlight of any Large Island go to, the black sand seashore is a sea turtle sanctuary so there are normally a number of turtles lazing on the sand. They’re protected, so preserve your distance, however be at liberty to marvel at their presence—it’s one of the crucial iconic sights on the island. If it’s not too late within the day, try the reward store run by locals proper on the seashore. The black sand will get actually sizzling and windy in case you had been questioning why individuals aren’t laying out on the sand.

Sea turtles come up onto the black sand at Punalu’u. Picture credit score: HawaiianScribe

Volcano Winery – Established in 1986, the vineyard harnesses the distinctive volcanic soil to domesticate Symphony grape vines, demonstrating that even in probably the most sudden terrains, viticulture can thrive. For a mid-day pick-me-up, they provide tastings from 12-5:30 p.m every day or guided excursions at 12:15 p.m. (superior reservations required). There’s additionally a one-hour tour of their tea fields the place their White and Black tea choices are featured.

Night: Volcano Village and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

Though you in all probability didn’t discover, your Large Island street journey drive has taken you up fairly the elevation acquire – 4,000 toes above sea stage. As sundown approaches, Volcano Village will become visible, a misty, fern-filled enclave on the sting of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Evenings are sometimes cool and wet, however should you’re fortunate to be there on a transparent night time, lookup. The celebrities are superb.

In the event you nonetheless have vitality, the park after darkish is a sight to behold. Open 24/7, you received’t discover rangers and should be ready with flashlights, emergency provides and clothes layers. If there’s volcanic activity reported (examine NPS situations prematurely), head to the Halemaʻumaʻu Crater overlook and obey all hazard indicators. Seeing molten lava glowing in opposition to the night time sky is an unforgettable expertise.

Observe: The doorway payment per car is $30, and should you enter the park at night time, you’ll must pay once more within the morning except you’ve gotten a nationwide parks cross.

A night with Pele. Picture by Michael Brandt.

The place to Keep Close to Hawaii Volcanoes Nationwide Park:

• Hawaii Volcanoes Nationwide Park has a campground the place you may pitch a tent, however there are additionally cabins that sleep 1-Four individuals and are at all times in demand.
• Hawaii Volcano House – A historic lodge with 33 visitor rooms located close to the sting of Kilauea Crater. An onsite eating places provide upscale eating.
• Volcano Village Lodge – Is a mattress and breakfast two miles from the park that’s widespread with vacationers.
• Kilauea Lodge – Is a widely known classic lodge with an onsite restaurant positioned in Volcano Village proper exterior the Nationwide Park.

The place to Eat Close to Hawaii Volcanoes Nationwide Park:

There aren’t many decisions in Volcano Village however your greatest bets are…

• Thai Thai Bistro & Bar – Scrumptious Thai meals. Their particular curry is excellent. High quality of service can typically range.
• Lava Rock Cafe – Their menu has a mixture of American and Large Island local-style meals with plate lunches and dinners, sandwiches, burgers, pasta, wine and beer.

Day 2: Volcano to Hilo

Morning: Discover Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

Get up early and take advantage of your time on this UNESCO World Heritage Web site. You possibly can simply spend a whole day within the park with hikes just like the Kilauea Iki Hike, the place you’ll stroll throughout a once-molten lava lake. Drive the famed Chain of Craters Road all the way in which to the ocean, a 19-mile scenic route passing previous lava flows and scenic lookouts. In the event you’re into geology or simply awestruck by Earth’s uncooked energy, this park delivers with its energetic volcanoes.

Noon: Drive to Hilo

Drive the 30 miles from Volcano to Hilo. Hilo feels totally different than Kona—cooler, greener, extra laid-back.

Sundown over historic downtown Hilo. Picture by Jay Takaaze.

Issues to do in Hilo:

• Rainbow Falls – If there’s been latest heavy rains, the falls shall be thundering. In any other case, it’s fairly delicate and picturesque.
• Walk Around Historic Downtown Hilo – Charming storefronts, colourful murals, and a laid-back vibe transport you to previous Hawaiʻi with a touch of hipster aptitude.
• Stroll Liliuokalani Gardens and stroll over the bridge to Coconut Island – The 360-degree view of Hilo Bay from Coconut Island is superb.

The place to Keep in Hilo:

The place to Eat:

• Ponds Hilo: Overlooking Ice Pond, straight throughout from SCP Hilo Lodge. Ask to take a seat by the window.
• Seaside Restaurant & Aqua Farm: Contemporary seafood plucked straight out of the ponds surrounding the restaurant.
• Moon and Turtle: Situated in Downtown Hilo, it’s an modern Asian-fusion restaurant with a menu that adjustments typically to accommodate domestically sourced meals. Test their Fb web page for the every day menu.

Day 3: – Hilo to Waimea alongside the Hamakua Coast. (heading again towards Kona)

This itinerary has you consuming dinner in Waimea, whether or not or not you determine to remain in a single day there. Enable for a 1-hour drive from Waimea to Kona Worldwide Airport should you go away the following morning.

Morning:

Paul’s Place: Situated in Downtown Hilo, this is able to be an important morning send-off. Paul’s is a tiny area of interest restaurant with simply three tables. The Belgian waffles are spectacular. Reserve method prematurely and arrive on time. They’re open every day from 7:30 a.m.- 2 p.m.

Hawai‘i Tropical Botanical Garden: For beautiful views of the Onomea shoreline, this tropical rainforest backyard has over 2,500 species of vegetation. They’re open every day 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Native pink chenille plant

Triple Tier Umauma Falls: Go on a self-guided tour of the waterfalls and tropical backyard for a nominal payment. Additionally they provide horseback using, ziplining, ATVs, ebike leases, and kayaking.

Afternoon:

It is best to cross the small plantation city of Honoka‘a within the early afternoon. There’s not a lot to see when your time is restricted, however Tex Drive In is on the primary freeway. They’ve plate lunches, a pleasant little relaxation cease, and are recognized for an assortment of malasadas (Portuguese buns) in distinctive flavors. They’re open 6 a.m. -6 p.m.

Half an hour previous Tex, you’ll attain Waimea. It’s Paniolo (Cowboy) Nation with Parker Ranch taking on many of the pastureland and rolling hills. They provide self-guided excursions of the 2 historic household houses to see the heirlooms and art work. Reservations are required with excursions out there at 10, 11, and 1.

The place to Eat on a Large Island Street Journey

The place to Eat in Waimea:

Plan to have dinner in Waimea. For a backcountry city with rolling inexperienced hills, their meals is superb.

• Fish and the Hog: A market cafe providing recent island fish, BBQ, sandwiches and salads. They’re family-friendly and do get crowded. Open 11:30 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.
• Merriman’s: Upscale and dear, however Chef Peter Merriman is understood for his glorious delicacies that makes use of the freshest native substances. Reservations are required for dinners from 5 – 8:30 p.m.
• For a festive finale on the Large Island, strive the Paniolo Sunset BBQ Dinner. The buffet dinner contains prime rib, BBQ hen, sides, desserts, and non-alcoholic drinks with festive nation music, line dancing, roping, and extra Hawaiian-style enjoyable. Reservations are required. The present is on Wednesday nights solely from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at Kahua Ranch. . You’ll love the Hawaiian paniolo tradition of island cowboys.

The place to Keep in Waimea:

• Kamuela Inn: A boutique lodge with simply 30 rooms and upcountry hospitality together with complimentary continental breakfast.

Returning to Kona

Whether or not you determine to remain in a single day in Waimea or return to Kona, you’ve now seen an enormous chunk of the Large Island and its assorted and vibrant soul—however there’s a lot extra. You’ve in all probability simply seen sufficient to fall in love with the Large Island—and possibly begin planning your return journey and your subsequent journey.

Large Island Street Journey Journey Suggestions:

• Your rental automotive: A normal car will do for many of the journey, however should you plan to go to the summit of Mauna Kea, you’ll want a 4WD. Remember to check the windshield wipers earlier than leaving the lot as a result of tropical showers are a part of Large Island life.
• Test the climate and street closures: Circumstances can range dramatically from location to location on the Large Island, so keep knowledgeable, particularly should you’re heading into excessive elevation or distant areas.
• Respect the land and tradition: Most of the websites you’re visiting are sacred to Native Hawaiians. Tread frivolously and be respectful.
• Pack layers: From the sunny Kona coast to the chilly Volcano nights, you’ll expertise a spread of temperatures together with a sweater for evenings.
• Convey binoculars and an umbrella. You’ll have a number of alternative to make use of them in your Large Island street journey.
• Pack mountain climbing boots. The paths can get muddy and mountain climbing over lava is tough on tennis footwear.

The Large Island is huge, uncooked, and endlessly fascinating. Even in simply a few days, it leaves an impression that’s arduous to shake. So hit the street, preserve your eyes huge, and let the Large Island work its magic.

If You Have Further Time: Waipiʻo Valley Lookout or Mauna Kea

Waipi’o Valley Lookout. Picture credit score: HawaiianScribe

Waipiʻo Valley Lookout     

Proceed driving north on the Hāmākua Coast and switch into the little city of Honoka‘a. It’s a nine-mile drive from the primary freeway to the Waipiʻo Valley Lookout for one of the crucial jaw-dropping vistas on the island. The valley is sacred, dramatic, and plush. Entry is at present restricted to valley residents, tour operators, and Native Hawaiians working towards conventional cultural rights.

Mauna Kea Guests Heart at 9,200 ft elevation. Picture Credit score: State of Hawai’i

Summit of Mauna Kea

If the skies are clear and also you’re craving a real excessive level—actually—drive up 9,200 toes to the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station. The summit (13,803 toes) requires a 4WD car, and situations change quick, however even should you don’t go all the way in which up, stargazing from the customer heart is phenomenal.