Big Island Guide

Here is a mini guide of my favorite spots! Next time you visit Big Island, Hawaii, make sure to include these places on your list.

Basic Suitcase Needs

Beach sandals

Rain jacket

Swimwear

Sneakers for hiking 

Casual clothes - They don’t dress up as much!

Nature Adventures

Akaka Falls

Rainbow Falls

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (*Do the opposite of what I did - visit at night to see the lava! I went in the morning and there was not much to see besides craters.)

Polulu Valley Lookout

Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach

Papakōlea Green Sand Beach

Yummy

Want to splurge? Go to Canoehouse. 

I highly recommend trying the 5-course meal. It was SO delicious and packed with flavor. The service was remarkable and I felt like I was truly catered to during the whole experience.

Roy’s

The steak and lobster tail hit the spot. The chocolate mousse was a great choice to end it off. No other words are needed.

Merriman’s

A fancier restaurant with food that tastes like it just came from the sea. I ordered lobster tacos! The staff was very kind and made it a favorable dining experience.

Papa Kona

The crab cake benedict was top tier. It was my first time trying a benedict because I am a bit iffy with eggs. I gave it a try and it was the right decision. 

Lava Lava Beach Club

Dinner with a nice view? YES. You can enjoy a delicious meal alongside the beach. Coconut shrimp was amazing. The ahi nachos with the chili sauce was so tasty and none was left on the plate.

Mai Grille

Brunch, brunch, brunch. The papaya was super fresh and that was probably the thickest bacon I have ever eaten in my entire life. 

Ola Brew

I am not a huge beer drinker, BUT I gave it a try along with ciders, seltzers and a stout. I found a few favorites! My top choices were: Orange Vanilla (seltzer), White Pineapple (cider), Russian Imperial Milk Stout, and Dragonfruit IPA.

Kona Brewery

If you’re interested in beer, this is another spot to check out! There is a long list of beer options to try. The most popular menu item is their pizza. 

Tropics Ale House

This is a nice, chill location for a quick bite to eat along with a cheaper drink. You might even catch live music for that evening.

Volcano Winery

This winery has a set of unique flavors for wines and teas. The tasting had 8 different wines to taste with the most interesting to be the infusion tea wine. I bought two wines to travel home with - Symphone Mele & Limited Pinot Noir.