7 Fun Outdoor Adventures in Big Island, Hawaii

Big Island, Hawaii is all about the outdoors, with its vast and varied terrain and landscape. There are oceans, mountains, cliffs and secluded locales that cater to the whims and fancies of every kind of tourist. One can swim, snorkel, hike, body surf, or just laze around and enjoy picnics. Just go well prepared as to what kind of activity you are interested in and plan accordingly. After all, the island is loaded with endless choices that will leave you spoilt. The best part is that there are plenty of Big Island homes for rent and at amazing prices thus lodging at affordable rates will never be a problem in Hawaii.

#1 Snorkeling for colorful marine life

Kealakekua Bay is considered the best for snorkeling on the Big Island. With a visibility of 80 feet, it is an amazing experience to spot the colorful creatures of marine life around you. Watch those fish and marine creatures make their way in and out of their pristine coral habitats and among jagged pinnacles. Hawaiian spinner dolphins are the main attractions for the snorkelers. Do not miss the chance to swim with wild dolphins but make sure to give them their space and respect.

#2 Horseback riding for a romantic day

If you love horses and riding, then head for the Waipio Valley. The isolated valley with 2,000-foot-high cliffs are just perfect for horseback rides. Go ahead and explore the wilderness and go deep into the rainforest. You will come across several waterfalls and pools. This is a ideal way for a couple to spend a romantic day together. Enjoy horseback riding in the unspoiled upcountry Hawai'i on historic Kohala Mountains that boast of the most spectacular scenery. You get inspiring views of the Mauna Loa, Hualalai Volcanoes, Kona and Kohala coastline and Haleakala Volcano on Maui. You will feel like a real paniolo, all equipped with boots, hats and, chaps, as you ride the range dotted with grazing cattle.

#3 Paradise for hikers

The Big Island is just perfect for hikers as it boasts of miles and miles of hiking trails. The population density is low and what makes hiking favorite pastimes on the island are the varied terrains and different climate zones. Hawaii outdoors are ever-changing and one minute you could be hiking among rainforests and after some hours, you will find yourself in high alpine deserts. If you are looking for some scenic hikes, then go towards the Onomea trail and if you are seeking more rigorous trail, then head towards the Kilauea volcano. Halini Pali and Mauna Loa trails are popular.

# 4 Camping to get close with real nature

Sleeping outdoors, under the sky only adds to your experience when holidaying on the Big Island. Camping brings you closer to nature, and you leave with wonderful memories and experience. Look for the spots where you will be allowed to camp and get camping permits. Get aware of the rules and facilities at the campsites as these may differ from site to site. You can camp on a beach or in an alpine environment. The climate can get diverse on Hawaiian Islands. Browse through several campsites that may be state, county or national park campsites.

#5 Explore the native volcanoes

There are several volcanoes but one of the most active volcanoes is the Kīlauea volcano, which is located in the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Visited by millions of tourists each year, the volcano is popular not just on the Big Island, but all across the world. The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park boasts of two other active volcanoes, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa. Take a guided tours of volcanic attractions such as Kilauea’iki crater, Chain of Craters road, Thurston lava tube and more. All those interested in volcanoes or amateur naturalists and botanists get an outstanding breadth of knowledge about the geography, mineralogy, flora and fauna around the volcanoes. You are rewarded with views of crater vistas, hidden lava tube caves, unique plants every now and then.

#6 Lazing around on the beaches

Big Island beaches are unique and what makes them special is that they are made out of pitch black sands. You will also come across corals, newly formed lava rocks and crystal green or coarse white sand. The island of Hawaii is a very young island, geologically speaking. New beaches are appearing and disappearing from time to time. The three most popular beaches on the Big Island are the black sand beach of Punalu’u, the white sand beach of Hāpuna, and the green sand beach of Papakōlea. You can walk on those sands and spot turtles that are commonly seen on beaches with black sand where they build their nests. You can swim, snorkel, have picnics or simply sunbathe on those beaches. 

#7 Combo adventure for a special experience

Get ready to experience the island’s most impressive natural wonders on a helicopter ride, zip line, and trekking! You can fly over the tropical river gorge on the zipline course which happens to be the longest lines in Hawaii. You can soar over Mauna Loa and Kilauea volcanoes in a helicopter. It is time now to take a guided trek through Hawaii Volcanoes and end your day with a glass of wine. This is your great chance to immerse yourself in natural attractions of the Big Island. Snacks and beverages are provided during the tour. You would be given a safety briefing and the right gear to wear. Soar over pristine rain forests or gaze at the breathtaking perspective of Mauna Kea and Kilauea craters.