Unique Things To Do On The Big Island

Why the Big Island is the Perfect Place to Call Home

A Slower, More Fulfilling Lifestyle

When exploring unique things to do on the Big Island, many quickly realize that the island lifestyle is fundamentally different, more relaxed, tranquil, and fulfilling. Residents often shift their priorities toward family, nature, and personal wellness. Daily life here means less stress, more leisure, and ample opportunities for mindfulness activities such as yoga, meditation, or simply strolling along scenic beaches at sunset.

Moving to the Big Island encourages a healthier work-life balance. Opportunities to work remotely are growing, allowing new residents to combine professional ambitions with personal happiness. The island’s natural beauty and slower pace of living make it an ideal sanctuary for individuals and families seeking peace and contentment.

Year-Round Warm Weather and Stunning Landscapes

According to Where and When, the weather on the Big Island remains consistently warm and inviting year-round, with average temperatures ranging between 75°F and 85°F, creating ideal conditions for outdoor adventures in every season. As noted by the source, “the weather is pleasant year-round, particularly from May to October, with warmer temperatures during the summer months.” September and October, in particular, bring delightful weather perfect for exploring the island’s endless natural wonders.

The island boasts an astonishing variety of landscapes, from mystical black sand beaches and towering waterfalls to lush rainforests and dramatic volcanic terrain shaped by ancient lava flows. It’s one of the rare places on Earth where you can snorkel alongside vibrant marine life in the morning, hike across hardened lava fields in the afternoon, and relax under a sky brimming with stars by night.

Scenic beauty is seamlessly woven into everyday life, offering limitless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Residents and visitors alike enjoy mesmerizing sunrise hikes up coastal cliffs, cooling off beneath cascading waterfalls like Rainbow Falls and Akaka Falls, and experiencing the awe of nighttime stargazing atop Mauna Kea, regarded globally as one of the premier astronomical observation sites due to its clear skies and elevation above the clouds.

A Strong Sense of Community and Aloha Spirit

According to Aloha Challenge, living on the Big Island means being part of a close-knit community deeply rooted in the Aloha Spirit. Residents foster strong connections and welcome newcomers warmly, embracing them as ‘ohana, or family.

Community gatherings, festivals, cultural workshops, and volunteer opportunities are woven into the fabric of daily life, making it easy for new residents to integrate and feel a true sense of belonging. Weekly farmer’s markets, beach clean-up days, and music events offer natural spaces to build relationships and contribute to the island’s well-being.

Celebrations like the Merrie Monarch Festival, regarded as the world’s premier hula competition, showcase traditional hula, chant, and Hawaiian culture, reinforcing strong ties to heritage and local values. Events such as these are not just performances—they are deeply spiritual expressions of identity and connection to the land, passed down through generations.

Outdoor Adventures for an Active Lifestyle

Hike Through Lush Valleys and Volcanic Landscapes

The Big Island is a paradise for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts, offering an incredible variety of terrains to explore. Popular hiking destinations include:

• Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park is home to active lava flows, ancient petroglyphs, craters, and remarkable geological formations. Trails such as the Kīlauea Iki Trail take hikers through a solidified lava lake surrounded by rainforest, offering a surreal hiking experience. Visitors can also witness the glow from the Halema’uma’u crater at night, a truly unforgettable sight.
• Waipi’o Valley: Often called the “Valley of the Kings,” Waipi’o Valley is rich in Hawaiian history and natural beauty. Hike through lush landscapes filled with taro fields, cascading waterfalls like Hi’ilawe Falls, and dramatic cliffs rising 2,000 feet. The hike into the valley is steep, but the breathtaking views and serene environment make the effort worthwhile.
• Pololū Valley: Known for its rugged coastal scenery and black sand beach, Pololū Valley offers a relatively short but rewarding hike. The trail descends into the valley, where visitors can explore tide pools, enjoy panoramic vistas, and experience the raw beauty of Hawaii’s northern coast.

Chase Waterfalls Along the Hamakua Coast

Exploring waterfalls is one of the most magical things to do on the Big Island, and the Hamakua Coast offers some of the best views. A visit to Akaka Falls State Park is a must. This short, half-mile hike through lush rainforest takes you to not one but two incredible waterfalls. First, you’ll encounter the 100-foot Kahuna Falls. As you continue on the loop, you’ll encounter the breathtaking Akaka Falls, which plunges 442 feet into a gorge below. It’s one of the island’s most iconic spots and a perfect place for nature photography.

For more waterfall exploration, take a scenic drive along the Hamakua Coast from Hilo to Waipi’o Valley. Various viewpoints offer stunning vistas of waterfalls, each worth stopping for a closer look.

Dive with Manta Rays

For a truly unforgettable experience, night diving or snorkeling with manta rays is one of the most unique things to do on the Big Island. The Kona Coast is one of the best places in the world to get up close with these gentle giants. Don’t worry—manta rays are harmless and friendly, without stingers like their stingray relatives.

The experience happens at night when bright spotlights attract plankton, which in turn attracts manta rays. Try places like Garden Eel Cove or Keauhou Bay to watch the manta rays glide through the water. It’s a mesmerizing sight often described as an “experience of a lifetime.”

Relax at the Best Beaches

The Big Island is home to some of Hawaii’s most diverse and picturesque beaches. From white and black sand to rare green sand, the coastline offers something for everyone. Here are a few must-visit beaches:

• Papakolea Green Sand Beach: One of only four green sand beaches in the world, Papakolea is located near the island’s southern tip. Getting there is a bit of a hike, but the scenic bay and unique green sand make it worthwhile.
• Punalu’u Black Sand Beach: This beach is known for its striking black sand and frequent visits from Hawaiian green sea turtles. It is about 30 miles south of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. The black sand beach is an excellent spot to relax and catch sight of the basking turtles.
• Hapuna Beach: One of the most famous white-sand beaches on the island, Hapuna Beach offers space to spread out and relax. Along the Kohala Coast, it’s a great spot for swimming, bodyboarding, and sunbathing.
• Makalawena Beach: If you’re looking for a secluded paradise, head to Makalawena Beach. This beach is accessible via a thirty-minute coastal hike along the Ala Kahakai Trail. It is known for its pristine white sand, dunes, and turquoise waters.

Discover Ancient Petroglyphs

One of the most fascinating cultural experiences on the Big Island is discovering ancient petroglyphs (ki’i pohaku). These are lava rock carvings that Native Hawaiians made centuries ago. The carvings depict human figures, animals, and symbols. Though their meanings remain a mystery, many believe they record important events such as births and community gatherings.

One of the best places to see these ancient carvings is the Puako Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve. This location has hundreds of petroglyphs to marvel at. You can also find carvings near Waikoloa Resort or the Ala Kahakai Trail.

A Self-Sustaining and Healthy Way of Life

Farm-to-Table Living: Grow Your Own Food

The fertile soil and pleasant weather on the Big Island are ideal conditions for sustainable lifestyles, enabling residents to easily adopt a farm-to-table lifestyle. Gardeners use most of the homes to cultivate tropical fruits, including avocados, papayas, mangoes, and bananas, as well as vegetables, including taro, sweet potatoes, and leafy greens. Most herbs like basil, mint, and lemongrass grow easily in gardens, injecting fresh, organic flavors into dishes prepared at home.

This lifestyle reduces dependence on foreign goods, fosters a strong connection with the planet, and promotes a healthier, more active way of life. Seasonal planting guides provide year-round harvests, so fresh food from the farm is an integral part of daily life. For those with more ambitious projects, the Big Island has numerous agricultural lands perfect for establishing full-scale farms or green homesteads with renewable energy and rainwater collection.

Embracing farm-to-table living on the Big Island is more than a dietary choice; it supports personal well-being, environmental stewardship, and local economies.

Fresh Seafood and World-Famous Kona Coffee

Among the unique things to do on the Big Island is savoring its abundant fresh seafood and experiencing the renowned flavor of Kona coffee. According to Big Island, Kona’s volcanic soil and optimal climate conditions yield coffee beans celebrated worldwide for their smooth, rich taste and low acidity.

Fishing is an integral part of island culture. Residents regularly enjoy daily catches of ono, ahi, mahi-mahi, and opakapaka, often bought straight from the dock or at local fish markets. Sustainable fishing practices are highly valued, ensuring the preservation of marine life for future generations.

Dining options abound, from gourmet oceanfront restaurants offering fresh sashimi and poke bowls to simple roadside seafood shacks, allowing residents to enjoy the ocean’s bounty in various settings.

Local Farmers Markets and Organic Produce

Big Island farmers’ markets are vibrant hubs of community life where locals gather to shop and connect. According to the Big Island, visiting these markets supports local agriculture and provides access to some of the freshest organic foods available anywhere.

Top farmers’ markets include:

• Waimea Town Market: Known for farm-fresh dairy, free-range meats, and rare heirloom vegetables.
• Keauhou Farmers Market: Offers a colorful variety of tropical fruits, artisan breads, specialty honeys, and locally crafted goods.
• Volcano Village Farmers Market: Located near Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, featuring organic produce, handmade crafts, local jams, and traditional Hawaiian delicacies.

The Benefits of Investing in Big Island Real Estate

Spacious Properties with Ocean and Mountain Views

Real estate on the Big Island offers uniquely spacious properties with breathtaking ocean and mountain views. Unlike other densely populated Hawaiian islands, homes on the Big Island provide ample space for privacy and outdoor living.

Properties range from luxury oceanfront estates to secluded mountain retreats. Many homes feature expansive lanais, outdoor kitchens, and private pools—perfect for entertaining or relaxing amid nature.

Lower Property Prices Compared to Other Hawaiian Islands

Compared to Oahu and Maui, property prices on the Big Island are significantly lower, offering better value for investors and homeowners alike. This affordability means more opportunities to own expansive properties.

Additionally, property taxes in Hawaii are among the lowest in the United States, enhancing investment attractiveness.

Exclusive Communities for Every Lifestyle

The Big Island caters to diverse preferences, offering a variety of exclusive communities that appeal to different lifestyles, whether you’re looking for adventure, luxury, or serene coastal living. Each neighborhood presents its distinct charm, amenities, and sense of community, allowing residents to choose the environment that best suits their vision of paradise.

• Mauna Lani Resort: Nestled along the Kohala Coast, Mauna Lani Resort is a haven for luxury seekers. It boasts two world-class golf courses, a state-of-the-art spa, upscale dining options, and pristine beaches. Residents enjoy access to private beach clubs, tennis courts, and boutique shopping, creating a balanced lifestyle of relaxation and sophistication.
• Waikoloa Beach Resort: Perfect for families and those who enjoy vibrant, active communities, Waikoloa Beach Resort offers stunning beaches, the Queen’s MarketPlace and King’s Shops for premier shopping, and various dining experiences. Cultural events and festivals are held year-round, allowing residents and visitors to engage with Hawaiian traditions and contemporary island living.
• Kukio: For those desiring utmost exclusivity, Kukio is one of the island’s most prestigious private residential communities. Located near Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, Kukio features an 18-hole championship golf course designed by Tom Fazio, a private beach club, a full-service spa, and dedicated concierge services. This gated community offers unparalleled privacy, luxury, and bespoke service for discerning homeowners.

How to Find the Right Home for Your Dream Life

Finding the ideal home on the Big Island involves thoughtful planning and the proper guidance. Here’s a detailed roadmap to ensure a successful search:

• Define Priorities: Identify what matters most to you—proximity to beaches, access to golf courses, privacy, vibrant community life, or eco-friendly living.
• Set a Budget: Consider not only the price of the home but also property taxes, homeowners association (HOA) fees, maintenance costs, and insurance. The Big Island offers a range of properties at various price points, but proper financial planning is essential.
• Tour Communities: Spend time exploring different neighborhoods to experience their vibe. Attend community events, visit local shops and amenities, and talk to residents to gain first-hand insights.
• Work with an Expert: Partnering with a knowledgeable local real estate agent, like the team at Luxury Big Island, provides insider knowledge of market trends, zoning laws, hidden listings, and negotiation strategies. Local experts can tailor property searches to match your unique preferences, ensuring you find a home that feels “just right.”
• Consider Future Growth: Think long-term. Investigate infrastructure plans, development projects, and sustainability initiatives that may impact property value and quality of life.

What to Expect When Relocating to Hawaii

Relocating to the Big Island involves planning around multiple aspects of life to ensure a smooth transition:

• Shipping belongings: Research reputable freight services experienced with Hawaii relocations. Consider container shipping and plan timelines carefully, as transit times can vary.
• Vehicle considerations: Decide between shipping your car, which can be cost-effective, or purchasing locally, where you might find deals tailored to island life, such as 4WD vehicles ideal for rugged terrain.
• Healthcare access: Familiarize yourself with local medical facilities, clinics, and specialist availability. Establish relationships with new healthcare providers and transfer medical records ahead of time.
• Schooling options: If moving with children, research various educational options, including public schools, private academies, and homeschooling communities.
• Cultural etiquette: Embrace local customs, including respecting land and wildlife, participating in community events, and practicing ‘pono’—living righteously and harmoniously.
• Cost of living: Understand that island living often involves higher costs for goods and services. Budget accordingly to maintain a comfortable lifestyle.

Connect with a Local Real Estate Expert Today

Are you ready to make your dream of living on the Big Island a reality? Partner with the trusted professionals at Luxury Big Island to find your perfect property. Whether you seek an oceanfront estate, a mountain retreat, or a vibrant resort home, we are here to guide you. Call us today at (808) – 282- 0689 and start your island journey!