6 Big Island Day Trips You Can't Miss

If you’re staying with Luxus Vacation Properties on the Big Island of Hawaii, you might be tempted to stay close to home. And who would blame you? Our gorgeous Big Island vacation rentals are located on the Kohala Coast, the sunny west side of the Big Island which boasts white-sand beaches, world-class golf courses, boutique shopping, cultural landmarks and more. And with pools, spas, private lanais, and gourmet kitchens on site, your Luxus rental truly has everything you need for an unforgettable time in Hawaii. 

But, if a craving for some Big Island adventure creeps in during your stay, there are several incredible experiences all within a couple hour’s drive – or less! – right from your vacation rental door. View our top 6 picks for fun day trips while staying on the Big Island!

Ocean views, galleries, coffee-growing tours, boutique shopping

A perfectly relaxed morning can be had in this charming, historic artists’ community overlooking Kailua-Kona. The town is lined with historic structures and offers picture-perfect views of the Pacific Ocean. 

Enjoy a peaceful breakfast with locally grown coffee before exploring the boutique shops and art galleries for one-of-a-kind souvenirs. And on the first Friday of every month, you can join the village for their regular after-dark block party with live music, gourmet food, and a whole lot of island fun.

Driving time from Kohala Coast: 40 to 50 minutes

Every visitor guide will tell you about the Waipiʻo Valley Lookout past Waimea – and it is absolutely worth seeing if you have the time. But a shorter drive takes you to this equally stunning viewpoint. Pololū Valley is also one of Kohala Volcano's seven Valleys of the Kings, a sacred childhood home of King Kamehameha I, and an ecologically rich preserve. 

You can park on the street and enjoy the view of the lush valley and its black sand beach – or you can hike down the steep path and explore the area close-up. The friendly trail stewards at the lookout will orient you to the hike and the valley as you arrive – along with the importance of good shoes, sticking to the trail, and staying out of the rough water. 

Driving time from Kohala Coast: 50 minutes

Snorkeling, kayaking, historic parks, coffee farming

The small Captain Cook community in the southern part of Kona District makes a fantastic day trip. Take your time driving here, enjoying the coastline and giant swaths of lava fields – maybe even stop for a coffee or leg stretch in bustling Kailua-Kona. 

And while you can certainly visit the Captain Cook monument once you arrive, it’s really the crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life of Kealakekua Bay that you’ll remember. Plan ahead, however, as the easiest way to access the bay is with a guided boat tour or by kayak. 

You can also book a coffee farm tour or visit beautiful Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park and enjoy ocean views, wildlife, and rich Hawaiian history. On your way home, stop at Kaaloa’s Super J’s restaurant for a mouthwatering plate of authentic lau lau or kalua pig.

Driving time from Kohala Coast: 60 to 80 minutes

Dramatic landscapes, active volcano, hiking, interpretive learning centre

If you only have time for one big day trip while visiting the Big Island, this National Park might be the one. 

Your entry ticket is good for seven days, so you can even plan two mornings to explore the park without the afternoon crowds. View the activity of the Kīlauea volcano, hike-through lava tubes and past steam vents, and drive or hike the crater rim. 

If you have the time (and the healthy knees), the 6-km looped Kīlauea Iki Trail takes you safely across a solidified lava lake that looks and feels utterly otherworldly. There is food and drink available in the park, but the roadside taco stands often set up outside are a delicious post-hike reward!

Driving time from Kohala Coast: 2 to 2.5 hours 

Star gazing, astronomical observatories, sunrise or sunset picnics

This is a five-star experience in every way, including the changing landscapes you’ll see along Saddle Road. Keep your eyes peeled for wild goats and donkeys, then enjoy the panoramic view as you begin your climb up the dormant volcano called Mauna Kea. 

Make sure to stop at the visitor centre for at least 45 minutes to acclimatize, as you’ll have already gained about 2,700 ft in elevation. A guided tour any further up the winding road to the summit is highly recommended. At 13,000 ft above sea level (and more than 33,480 ft in total) this is one of the world’s premier places to see the sun rise or set from above the clouds. It’s also one of the darkest places on earth, which is why you’ll see major astronomical observatories up there as well as nightly star-gazing tours you can pre-book. 

Driving time from Kohala Coast to the Mauna Keana Visitor Centre: 2 to 2.5 hours each way.  

Typical tour time from Kohala Coast pickup to summit and back: 7 to 9 hours, round trip.

Each one of our luxury accommodations on the Big Island offer a range of indoor and outdoor spaces that give every member of your group the freedom to unplug and reconnect. Well-situated for both privacy and easy access to amenities, you’ll have everything you need to enjoy the natural beauty Hawaii is famous for.