Hawaii's Big Island Vacation Travel Guide | Expedia

Summary

Discover the Island of Hawai'i, the largest and youngest of the Hawaiian islands, with diverse climate zones and a rich volcanic landscape. Experience the warm beaches, red-hot lava flows, and lush green jungles. Immerse in the unique Polynesian culture and explore the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to the Kīlauea volcano. Relax on the black lava beaches, enjoy watersports, and taste local specialties. Visit historic sites like Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park and the legendary birthplace of Kamehameha the First. With a backdrop of earth, water, wind, and fire, the Big Island offers a spectacular journey through nature's splendid gifts.

Takeaways

• 🏝️ The Island of Hawai'i is the largest and youngest of the Hawaiian islands, offering a variety of climate zones.
• 🌋 It is known for its volcanic activity, with nature's elements creating a dramatic landscape.
• 🌊 The island features warm, blue waters, ocean breezes, and red-hot lava flows.
• 🌴 A lush green jungle can be found on the island, complementing its subtropical coastline.
• 🏖️ The west side of the Big Island is resort-rich, offering black lava beaches and watersports.
• 🐢 Pacific green sea turtles can be seen at Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park.
• 🍺 Kailua-Kona is the main resort hub, offering exclusive brews and Hawaiian specialties like shave ice.
• 🛍️ Visitors can shop for 'Aloha' souvenirs, beachwear, and visit historical sites like Hulihe'e Palace.
• 🏞️ The interior of the Big Island is home to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, with the Kīlauea volcano being a major attraction.
• 🌄 The island's windward coast is known for its tropical climate and is the birthplace of Kamehameha the First.
• 🌅 On the west coast, Hapuna Beach is a prime location to watch the sunset over the North Pacific Ocean.

Q & A

What is the Island of Hawai'i also known as?

The Island of Hawai'i is also known as the Big Island.

Why is the Island of Hawai'i considered the youngest among the Hawaiian islands?

The Island of Hawai'i is considered the youngest because it is still growing due to volcanic activity.

What can visitors expect in terms of climate zones on the Big Island?

Visitors can expect a range of climate zones on the Big Island due to its large size and varied topography.

What is the significance of Pele in Hawaiian culture?

Pele is the mythical goddess of fire, volcanoes, and passion in Hawaiian culture.

What type of beaches can be found on the west side of the Big Island?

The west side of the Big Island offers black lava beaches.

Where can visitors see Pacific green sea turtles on the Big Island?

Visitors can see Pacific green sea turtles in Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park.

What is special about Kahalu'u Bay on the Big Island?

Kahalu'u Bay is a sheltered beach park where visitors can dive and greet the 'Honu' (Hawaiian green sea turtles) underwater.

What is the main resort hub of the Big Island?

Kailua-Kona is the island's main resort hub.

What historical event is associated with Captain Cook village on the Big Island?

Captain Cook village is associated with the death of the famous English explorer, Captain Cook, who was killed in Kealakekua Bay in 1779.

What is unique about the Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park?

Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park was a place of refuge in ancient times and features primitive canoes, huts, board games, and a sacred burial temple for Hawaiian chiefs.

How long has the Kīlauea volcano been erupting in the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park?

The Kīlauea volcano has been steadily erupting for over 30 years.

What is the significance of the Pololū Valley on the Big Island?

The Pololū Valley is significant as it overlooks the sprawling forest reserves of the lush northern region of Hawai'i and is the birthplace of Kamehameha the First, who unified the Hawaiian islands.