Big Island is the name that is commonly used to refer to Hawai’i Island, which is the largest island in the archipelago that makes up the state of Hawaii, which was named after the main island in the chain. There is no doubt that luxury travel is well catered for on Big Island, and whether you are looking to enjoy outdoor activities or simply want to be pampered and to completely unwind, you will find a wealth of options here.
When this is combined with the fantastic surroundings, it is definitely a prospect worth considering for your next trip.
Top Attractions To Visit on the Big Island
When it comes to hiking, there are few attractions that can match the amazing scenery of the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and there are plenty of hiking trails, and many of the island’s tours take in a short walk in this area too. The mountains also provide one of the best locations for astronomy in the world, with the dark skies making visibility from areas such as Mauna Kea absolutely fantastic. The town of Hilo is the largest on the island, and is home to the beautiful Rainbow Falls, while the Lili’uokalani Gardens is an amazing Japanese garden from the early twentieth century.
The Best Beaches On Big Island
The beaches on Big Island are quite varied, ranging from the traditional golden shores through to black sand volcanic beaches, and many of these have great facilities such as umbrellas and sun loungers to make for a relaxing experience. Hapuna Beach has good public access and is ideal for swimming, with a relatively calm surf and a nice stretch of sand, while Mauna Kea Beach is another beautiful option, although with limited parking. The Green Sand Beach is fascinating because of the olivine stone which gives the sand its distinctive color, while Kahaluu Beach is a popular destination for surfing. They rival my favorite beaches in Vietnam and Sicily.
Finding The Best Accommodation
The towns around the island have a good selection of accommodation on the whole, ranging from budget accommodation up to luxurious hotels. However, if you are looking for a great combination of luxury and freedom, the range of Big Island vacation rentals is ideal if you are looking for a place with plenty of space and with a ‘home away from home’ atmosphere. Many rentals have a private pool and easy access to a nearby beach, with a great variety of locations and price points available.
Getting Around Big Island
When it comes to getting around the island, it is worth noting that the public transport network is fairly limited, so it really makes sense to look at either cycling, if you’re going to be staying in one area, or maybe renting a car. Hitchhiking on Hawaii is quite common, so don’t be surprised to see people with their thumbs out as you explore. With some of the roads to be found around the island, if you are planning to head to some of the remote beaches, look for a rental company that allows you to take a 4×4 on the unpaved roads of the island.
