Top Things to do in Island of Hawaii
The 10 Best Hidden Gems Things to do in Island of Hawaii, Hawaii (HI)
Life on the Big Island is a little bit slower… and locals like it that way. The natural beauty and ecological features of the island are a draw for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Test your chutzpah at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to the longest volcanic eruption in recorded history, or climb to the indescribably beautiful summit of Mauna Kea. At the end of the day, there’s nothing more refreshing than a quivering plate of fresh poke, followed by a fruity shave ice.
Restaurants in Island of Hawaii
1. Kona Coffee Living History Farm
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 277 reviews
Kona Historical Society's Kona Coffee Living History Farm in Captain Cook is a "must see" Hawaii attraction and the only living history coffee farm in the nation. Stroll through this Smithsonian-affiliated, outdoor museum that tells the story of Kona's Japanese immigrants that became Kona's coffee pioneers during the early 20th century. A self-guided experience, you're free to walk among the coffee trees, meet a "Kona Nightingale", or watch how farmers used the kuriba and hoshidana to mill and dry their world-famous coffee. Visit the original 1920's farmhouse where you may find the homemaker starting the fire to cook rice or making musubi for the farmer's lunch. "Talk story" along the way with living history interpreters and discover the story behind Kona's gourmet crop.
Reviewed By X7222OQstephenr
Coming to the end of our vacation in Hawaii, we wanted to do something different than go to the beach again (don’t get me wrong, the beaches are awesome). I (Dad) had suggested going to a coffee farm, and with a bit of searching, came up with this place. So, we wandered down the road for a visit. It was fantastic. The docents (I’m not sure if that’s really the right word to use here) were so knowledgeable, and the stories they told were fantastic. We really hope someone records all those stories for the future! The farm itself was fantastic, and gave new insights into some of the history of Hawai’i and of the Japanese immigrants who lived and worked there. My spouse and I have both been to Hawai’i before, and have both done coffee farm tours elsewhere, but by and large they’ve been showing how modern coffee growing is done and are ready to just push you along to the gift shop where you can (of course) buy their coffee. But this place was completely different — interesting, educational, and fun. Loved it. And, importantly, my 8-year old loved it too! We spent about 2 hours there, and were all really happy that we did!
2. Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve and Garden
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2,146 reviews
The Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve and Garden is a 501(c)(3) Scientific and Educational non-profit, whose mission is to serve as a nature preserve and sanctuary, a living seed bank, and a study center for trees and plants of the tropical world. The Garden is dedicated to the collection and display of the world's tropical plants, and to the education of both children and adults about the plight of the world's rainforests. At a time when rainforest plants are disappearing at an alarming rate, the Garden is working to preserve as many species as possible for the benefit of future generations.
Reviewed By Paola010 - Oklahoma City, United States
This garden was an unexpected treat on a tour that included other attractions. Located on Onomea Bay, we reached it from the shipping port of Hilo. Admittedly, it was a long 500' walk down and then back up, but well worth it. (And, if you can't make it back up, a tram will bring you back for $10). It had it all, orchids growing on tree trunks and in their own little orchid garden, sparkling streams, a lush pool, unusual shades of anthurium, many varieties of ginger and dozens of other colorful plants and flowers. Eventually the path leads to a lovely view of the ocean, fringed by palms. Just delightful.
3. Paradise Meadows
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 144 reviews
An authentic, diversified family farm. We specialize in hand-crafted, artisanal, 100% Hawaiian products including macadamia nuts that are dehydrated rather than roasted so they taste more like the fresh macadamia nut right out of the shell, unique varieties of chocolate-covered macadamia nuts, award-winning 100% Ka'u coffee, several varieties of natural Hawaiian honey and buttery Tropical Shortbread cookies. On a visit to the farm you can enjoy free samples of all of our tasty treats, and you can meet the farmers, take a free self-guided tour (including our Aquaponic greenhouse), take a scenic and educational guided tour, and learn about honey, coffee and macadamia nut production. You can also meet our 4 parrots and see a variety of fruits, vegetables and flowers growing in our fields and gardens. We also have clean bathrooms, beach showers, free WiFi, and USB charging stations available for visitors.
Reviewed By dunadan - Lynnwood, United States
We followed the signs to Paradise Meadows on our way back to the highway from South Point, and were very glad we stopped and spent 15 minutes browsing the gift shop, walking the grounds, and checking out some of the animals on display. The annoying duck who kept walking into he open-air shop and had to be shooed out was funny to deal with, as we enjoyed tasting samples of the delicious products. We purchased a couple of bags of the chocolate-coated goodies, said hello to the birds on displays, and dodged raindrops while we walked the grounds a bit to stretch out our legs. Definitely worth the stop if you are driving to or from South Point!
4. Waipi'o Valley
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,026 reviews
A scenic area of waterfalls and thousand foot cliffs.
Reviewed By swearengen
You can drive a 4-wheel (though rentals might not let you) or hike down. But we took the Waipio Valley Shuttle down for a great tour of the valley. Surrounded by mountains with gorgeous rivers, taro farms, wild horses, and fruit trees all around, it is really something to see. A beautiful and unique area.
5. Dahana Ranch
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 222 reviews
A working cattle ranch that allows tourists to drive cattle.
Reviewed By Porcupine-415 - San Francisco, United States
My family of 4 (2 adults, 17yo, 14yo) went on the Ranch Ride (1.5 hours) at Dahana Ranch. We horseride occasionally so are probably in the beginner with some experience category. LOCATION: in the highlands east of Waimea. Much cooler and with more mist than along the coast (this was a positive as we would have been uncomfortably hot at sea level). HORSES: Born and raised on the island and sure footed among the rocks. Horses all were well trained although some required more prompting to gallop. GUIDE: we had a very experienced guide, Kiyo, who gave us tips and tried to teach us in how to lead the horse. She would have us go in "Z" patterns and practice turning the horses around and coming to a stop. We were also accompanied by 4 ranch dogs during the entire route. ROUTE: we rode along the hills east of the ranch for a solid 1.5 hours OVERALL: 1) My whole family enjoyed the ride due to the countryside, the guide, and the horses. 2) Easy to fit in the schedule: the ride duration of 1.5 hours + 30 minutes check-in worked great for us and is shorter than most other rides (they also offer a 2 hour advanced ride and a 2.5 hour range station ride where you actually herd cattle). 3) Excellent value: this was one of the least expensive horseback riding options we found on the Big Island.
6. Onomea Bay
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 63 reviews
Reviewed By marieequebec - Quebec City, Canada
light hiking free parking on the street free access some trails were in common with the botanical garden an absolute must the scenic drive to and from there je striking
7. Pololu Valley Lookout
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,096 reviews
One of many scenic valleys on the Big Island of Hawaii.
Reviewed By tano14130831 - San Ramon, United States
Had to insist that we give this hike a try. The concierge at our hotel said it was her favorite. Took about an hour to drive from Waikoloa to the lookout point but there were cute little shops in little towns on the way. Parked at the top of the cliff and hiked down to the most beautiful, serene and breathtaking scenery on the Big Island. There were tree swings near the black sand beach, majestic mountains on one side and ocean on the other. Cows were grazing in a far-off field near a peaceful meadow. I’d say hiking down took longer than hiking back up but neither took too long. Amazing views as you traverse the path. Went near sunset so only a few other people there. I’d do this hike again in a second!
8. Papakolea Green Sand Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,118 reviews
The big island of Hawaii's southernmost point features the Green Sand Beach.
Reviewed By BethneyD
We had no idea what we were in for when spontaneously we took someones advice to see the "green sand" beach. This is something that should be planned as an all day event....getting to the parking area is simple and directions easy to follow. Parking your car at this spot means about an hour and a half walk/hike to the actual beach!! Be prepared to have water, good walking shoes, snacks just for getting to the location. We walked half way and then caught a ride with one of the locals who ferry people back and forth on old vehicles for a modest charge (25$ per person). Walking/hiking is free....but will take time. Once you reach the beach, a walk down steep stairs to the actual sand and water is breathtaking and truly majestic.
9. Greenwell Farms
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,303 reviews
We are proud to bring coffee lovers around the world the finest 100% Kona Coffee. Conveniently located along the Mamalahoa Highway, enjoy a complimentary guided tour or book a private tour and tasting to experience the coffee growing process from seed to cup, learn about the farm’s rich heritage since 1850, explore acres of coffee fields, take in the stunning ocean views, and of course, taste our award-winning coffee! Come discover why we were voted the #1 Best Hawaii Farm Tour in Hawaii Magazine's Readers Choice Awards.
10. The Painted Church
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 707 reviews
Reviewed By chimayred - Durham, United States
an interesting middle ground between something to make a destination and something to stop at as you drive by. A beautiful little whitewashed church, with a beautiful interior painted with biblical scenes; nice setting, interesting history. I would recommend this.
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