Explore The Best Of Big Island With Google Maps

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Explore The Best Of Big Island With Google Maps

Google Maps is a powerful tool that can help you explore the world from the comfort of your own home. With a few clicks, you can discover new places, plan your route, and check out reviews from other travelers. If you’re planning a trip to Big Island, Hawaii, you can use Google Maps to create a comprehensive travel guide that covers all the top attractions, hidden gems, and local favorites. Here’s how to get started:

Top Attractions

There’s no shortage of amazing things to see and do on Big Island. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, or cultural experiences, you’re sure to find something that piques your interest. Some of the top attractions to add to your itinerary include:

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes, this national park is a must-see for anyone visiting Big Island. You can explore lava tubes, hike through rainforests, and even see the glow of molten lava at night.

Akaka Falls State Park

This park is home to a stunning 442-foot waterfall that plunges into a lush, tropical ravine. You can take a short hike to see the falls up close, or explore the surrounding gardens and rainforest.

Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park

This park is a sacred site that was once a place of refuge for ancient Hawaiians. You can explore the temple, see traditional canoes, and learn about the culture and history of the island.

Hidden Gems

If you’re looking for something a little off the beaten path, Big Island has plenty of hidden gems to discover. These are some of our favorites:

Punalu’u Black Sand Beach

This beach is famous for its jet-black sand, which is made from tiny particles of volcanic rock. You can sunbathe, swim, and even see sea turtles basking on the shore.

Rainbow Falls

This waterfall is named for the rainbow that appears in the mist on sunny days. You can hike to the top of the falls for a stunning view, or explore the surrounding gardens and pools.

Waipio Valley

This lush, green valley is a hidden gem that’s only accessible by foot or four-wheel drive. You can hike down to the beach, see the towering cliffs, and even spot wild horses grazing in the fields.

Food Scene

Big Island is famous for its fresh, local cuisine. From poke bowls to shave ice, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Some of the top places to try include:

Da Poke Shack

This casual restaurant serves up some of the best poke on the island. You can choose from a variety of fresh, raw fish and add your own toppings and sauces.

Hilo Farmers Market

This vibrant market is held every Wednesday and Saturday in downtown Hilo. You can find fresh produce, local crafts, and plenty of food vendors serving up everything from Thai noodles to Hawaiian-style breakfast.

Kona Coffee and Tea

This coffee shop is located on a working coffee farm in the heart of Kona. You can sample a variety of locally grown coffees, as well as baked goods and sandwiches made with fresh, local ingredients.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Traveling to Big Island doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some budget-friendly tips to help you save money:

Book a vacation rental

If you’re traveling with friends or family, consider renting a vacation home instead of staying in a hotel. You can save money on meals by cooking your own food, and you’ll have more space to spread out and relax.

Take advantage of free activities

There are plenty of free things to do on Big Island, from hiking to beaches to cultural events. Check out local calendars and websites to find out what’s going on during your trip.

Shop at local markets

Instead of eating out for every meal, pick up fresh produce and snacks at local markets and grocery stores. You can save money and get a taste of the local cuisine.

Outdoor Adventures

Big Island is an outdoor lover’s paradise, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, snorkeling, and more. These are some of the top outdoor adventures to add to your itinerary:

Snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay

This beautiful bay is home to some of the best snorkeling on the island. You can see colorful fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins if you’re lucky.

Hiking to the Green Sand Beach

This challenging hike takes you to a secluded beach with stunning green sand. You’ll need to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, but the views are worth it.

Ziplining in Kohala

If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, try ziplining through the lush forests of Kohala. You’ll soar over waterfalls and canyons for a truly unforgettable experience.

Family-Friendly Activities

Big Island is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities that kids (and parents) will love. These are some of our top picks:

Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden

This beautiful garden is home to thousands of tropical plants and flowers, as well as waterfalls and streams. Kids will love exploring the paths and spotting colorful birds and butterflies.

Mauna Kea Observatories

If your kids are interested in space, take them to the top of Mauna Kea to see some of the world’s most advanced telescopes. You’ll also get a stunning view of the night sky.

Kona Chocolate Factory Tour

This fun tour takes you behind the scenes at a working chocolate factory. Kids will get to see how chocolate is made, and of course, sample some delicious treats.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you’re looking to get away from the crowds and discover something truly unique, Big Island has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to offer. These are some of our favorites:

Lava Boat Tours

For a truly unforgettable experience, take a boat tour to see the lava flowing into the ocean. You’ll get up close to the action and see the power of the volcano in action.

Petroglyph Fields

These ancient rock carvings are a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of Hawaii. You can hike through the fields and see the intricate designs up close.

Manta Ray Night Snorkel

This unique snorkeling experience takes place at night, when manta rays come to feed on plankton. You’ll get to see these graceful creatures up close and personal.

Natural Wonders

Big Island is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in the world, from towering waterfalls to active volcanoes. Here are some of the top places to see:

Waipio Valley Lookout

This stunning overlook offers a panoramic view of the lush, green valley below. You can see waterfalls, taro fields, and even wild horses grazing in the fields.

Kilauea Caldera

This massive crater is the heart of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. You can hike around the rim, see steam vents and bubbling lava, and learn about the geology of the island.

Akaka Falls

This 442-foot waterfall is one of the most stunning sights on the island. You can hike through the lush rainforest to see the falls up close, and even swim in the pools below.

Vibrant Nightlife

Big Island may be known for its natural beauty, but it also has a vibrant nightlife scene. Whether you’re looking for live music, craft cocktails, or beachside bars, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from. These are some of our favorites:

Huggo’s on the Rocks

This beachside bar and grill is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. You can sip a mai tai, watch the sunset, and listen to live music under the stars.

Kona Brewing Company

This popular brewery offers tours, tastings, and a lively pub atmosphere. You can try a variety of locally brewed beers and even order a pizza to go with.

Lava Lava Beach Club

This stylish beachfront restaurant and bar is the perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring. You can sip a tropical cocktail, watch the waves, and even catch a live hula performance.