
Hawaii Island holidays are an invitation to witness the full force of nature. Watch as volcanic lava simultaneously destroys and creates, stand at the bottom of waterfalls as the water tumbles gloriously down straigh edged cliffs, and see majestic sea creatures glide on by as you snorkel. This is what Hawaii Island life is all about.
With its stunning beaches, beautiful resorts and abundant wildlife, Hawaii Island holidays are a chance to relax and enjoy paradise. Breathe in the lush rainforests and soak up the tropical sun on one of the Big Island’s coloured sand beaches, or chase its cascading waters, getting up close to Rainbow Falls before journeying on to the impressive Akaka Falls. Then, if you’re up for a hike, find your way to secluded and magical Narnia Falls, taking your time and luxuriating in the falls’ lush pools as you go.
Hawaii Island’s Breathtaking Volcanoes
The Big Island was formed by the joining of five separate volcanoes and the magic continues to unfold today. Three of these volcanoes are still active and the flowing lava makes for a surreal scene. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is home to Kilauea and Mauna Loa, one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Take in the majesty of Kilauea on the Crater Rim Drive, or take to the water on a lava boat tour. Watch and feel the heat as Kilauea’s molten lava flows to the subtropical coastline, hardening as it collides with the Pacific Ocean, increasing the size of this growing island before your eyes.
Combine your Hawaii Island holiday with visits to other Hawaiian islands and enjoy Maui’s stunning beaches, learn to surf at Waikiki beach on Oahu and wander Lanai City. Hop on board a Hawaiian cruise or take the short flight between each island. For something different, why not head to the mainland and see the city lights in New York or Los Angeles?
Great sample itineraries
Browse our sample itineraries and get a feel for the kind of things you’d like to do and see on your Hawaii Island holiday, then give us a call and let us plan a trip that’s tailor made for you.


Hawaii Multi Island Holidays
Our favorite hotels
Our favourite places to stay are below. We know everyone is different, so if you can’t see something you like, we'd be more than happy to help.

Volcano House

The Fairmont Orchid

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
Explore Hawaii Island
Snorkel with majestic manta rays, take a sunset cruise along the Kona-Kailua coast, roast your own coffee, watch steaming vents and molten lava, stargaze up into the night sky or relax on beautiful beaches with a mai tai in hand. The Island of Hawaii is waiting for you.

Star Gazing
Home to one of the most renowned astronomical sites on the planet, Hawaii Island has 13 telescopes where 11 countries are watching and making discoveries about the universe and the night sky. There are plenty of guided stargazing tours where you can learn about astronomy, or simply grab a blanket and cozy up whilst you watch the stars twinkling from above.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Home to the world's most active volcano, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a must visit for everyone coming to Hawaii Island. Walk through an ancient lava tubes, hike rainforests, drive around the 10 mile Crater Rim Drive and watch the fiery glow of Halema'uma'u Crater.

Explore the underwater world
Hawaii's waters are rich with marine life, from green sea turtles, dolphins, whales and the majestic Manta Rays. Snorkel straight from the beach of your hotel along the Kona coast, take a sunset cruise and watch the dolphins playing in the waters beside you or paddleboard along the shore and witness the turtles grazing on the sea grass beneath you. For an incredibly magical experience, snorkel or dive with Manta Rays at night where you will witness these beautiful creatures feeding on the plankton around you. The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel offers an intimate encounter from their secluded beach with highly passionate Manta Ray advocates.

Hawaii Islands Beaches
With some of the most beautiful and unique landscapes, Hawaii Island will show you first hand how volcanic activity has shaped the island. From golden and white sand beach resorts to slightly more rugged, black sand and molten rock coves; there are plenty of beaches for you to explore, relax , surf and snorkel.

"A trip to Ueshima Coffee Corp’s Hawaii Kona Coffee Estate at the foot of Mount Hualalai is well worth it. Here you can grind and roast your own coffee beans to make coffee to your exact taste."

"Rent a kayak and take an early morning paddle around Kealakekua Bay. Heading out first thing in the morning gives you a higher chance of seeing the majestic spinner dolphins."
Kona Coffee Cultural Festival
Held each November in harvest season, this festival celebrates the culture behind the popular drink. Over 10 days, visitors get to see what goes on behind the scenes of growing coffee beans, enjoy music and dance performances and, of course, there’s also the chance to sample the Kona coffee.
Aloha Festival
Aloha Festival is a month long celebration of Hawaiian culture. Over the month, there are plenty of ceremonies, parties and parades to showcase and preserve important Hawaiian traditions, so it’s a great way for visitors to learn about the culture. Aloha Festival isn’t exclusive to the Big Island: it’s actually held on each of the Hawaiian islands, so it’s a festival you shouldn’t miss wherever you are in the state.
Merrie Monarch Festival
Usually held in April, this week long festival is held in Hilo to celebrate and preserve Hawaiian culture. It’s main draw is its Hula contest, bringing together professional Hula dancers from across the world, but there’s also an arts fair, music and a parade to enjoy. If you’re on Hawaii Island when the festival is on, it’s a great way to soak up some authentic Hawaiian culture.
Loco Moco
Loco Moco is a filling bowl of comfort food, consisting of a bowl of rice topped with a burger patty and a fried egg and covered in a gravy. This dish has gotten so popular in Hawaii, that you’ll be able to find it on many menus on each of the state’s islands, but there’s nowhere better to try it than in the town of Hilo, where it was first invented.
Macadamia Nuts
Macadamia nuts are on os Hawaii Island’s super crops so it makes sense that they’re a firm favourite among visitors and locals. Head to a local farm to pick some up or find them across the island in various dishes and treats, including in chocolate and cookies.

Halemaumau Crater

Couple at Hamakua cliffs

Hawaii Island

Green Sea Turtle

Lava flow

Sunset at Mauna Kea

Roasted coffee beans

Couple overlooking Hale Ma'uma'u Crater

Puuhonua O Honaunau coconut grove

Rainbow Falls

Canoes on the beach

Oceanside Drive Puna

Fruit stand

Paddleboarding Kailua Kona Coast

Green Sea Turtle

Coastline and palm trees
Types of Hawaii Island holidays
You might also like these
We think you might also like to take a look at these destinations. If you'd like some advice, our Destination Specialists will be able to find something that is right for you.
Let’s talk
There’s no question too small. Start planning your dream trip by talking to our Destination Specialists.
Sign up to our newsletter
Receive the latest travel inspiration and destination news.

How we tailor make your holiday
The Hayes & Jarvis Way
We've been tailor making holidays for 65 years. With over 60 destinations to choose from, talk to us and we'll listen to your travel ideas to create unforgettable holiday experiences.