Things To Do

Kīlauea at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

In our opinion, the best way to see Kīlauea Volcano is by helicopter. The views of the island by helicopter are spectacular. A bit pricey, but one of the most memorable scenic views you'll experience. If you decide to not take that route, it is about a 2.5 hour drive to the other side of the island. You most likely won't see lava flow if you drive, but make sure you go to the lava tubes and stop by the visitors center for more information on what to see.

Stargazing at Mauna Kea Summit

Standing at 13,796 feet above sea level, Mauna Kea one of the best astronomical sites in the world. The summit is home to several international observatories, and the lack of light pollution on the Big Island makes it one of the best places in the world to stargaze. You can join guided tours that take you to the summit and provide telescopes for a closer look at the stars, planets and galaxies. Or take a drive to the visitors center during sunrise or sunset and get ready for some amazing stargazing. If you want to stargaze looking through their amazing telescopes, reservations are now required, so please book ahead of time and schedule accordingly if you are interested in that. But honestly it is still an epic experience if you just go and stargaze on your own.

Waipiʻo Valley Lookout

The Waipiʻo Valley Lookout is a scenic viewpoint that offers views of a historic valley and the surrounding cliffs. Park and walk to the lookout, and then hike down to the valley and pack a lunch to enjoy on the beach. Epically beautiful! But please note, do not drive your car down into the valley. The road is too dangerous.

Papakōlea Green Sand Beach

One of only four green sand beaches in the world, it's named for the olivine stone in the sand. It's a bit of a drive but SO beautiful, unique, and special. You can either park your car and hike down, or you can park, and there are locals that will drive you down for a small fee.

Night Manta Ray Snorkeling

One of the most amazing experiences Angela has ever done. Totally worth every penny. Anelakai adventures is my top recommendation. The guides are friendly, personable, and so well educated on the island, it's ocean, and the marine life. They take small groups instead of large groups that make it a more enjoyable experience. I highly recommend booking in advance as they will book up very quickly.

Pololū Valley Lookout

Pololu Valley is located in the oldest part of the island, Kohala. Driving through the old historic town of Kohala is where Angela grew up. It is a small but quaint town, and very lush. Pololu Valley has breathtaking views of the Pacific, and lush gorgeous views of island's northeastern coast. The road, Highway 270, literally dead ends at the lookout, where you'll find a small parking lot. For the best chance at finding a parking spot, get there early. If you're feeling adventurous, you can take a (steep) half-mile hike down the Pololu Trail that leads to the ocean and a black sand beach. Though you can't swim here because of the strong currents, it's worth the hike for the views alone. If you plan to hike, wear suitable shoes and bring plenty of water.

Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach

This easily accessible beach lies between the towns of Pahala and Naalehu, and is a popular detour when visiting Volcanoes National Park. It's known for its gorgeous black sand—a result of underwater volcanic activity—and this beach in particular is known for a lot of green sea turtle sightings. If you're lucky enough to see these amazing creatures, you might spot these them resting on the warm, black sand. Please make sure to not touch the sea turtles as they were once endangered and it is illegal to touch or harass them in any way. Hawaiian monk seals sometimes make a rare appearance, too!

Rainbow Falls

This is a drive to Hilo, on the other side of the island. It's a beautiful drive and you'll get to see all the Big Island's varied climates and terrain. Located at Wailuku River State Park, the 80-foot Rainbow Falls is a popular stop for Hawaii visitors. The waterfall borrows its name from the fact that the mist coming off the falls typically casts a rainbow. Legend has it that the cave behind the waterfall was once the home of Hina, mother of the demigod Maui. The park is also home to Boiling Pots – a series of pools that are connected by underground flow that cause the surface of the water to bubble like boiling water.

Sunset or Snorkel Cruise

You're in Hawaii. Don't resist. Just relax and allow yourself to get romantic AF.

Whale Watching Cruise

The wedding week is about a month before the official whale watching season (December-April) but the first whales should be arriving early November so you could get lucky!

Big Island Helicopter Tours

Experience the panoramic views and picturesque beauty of the Big Island on a guided aerial tour with Hawaii’s best helicopter tour company.

Big Island Farm Tours

Coffee isn't the only crop grown on the Big Island. There is a wide range of farms to tour, including macadamia nut farms, bee farms, vanilla farms, tea plantations, and more.

Poke Bowls @ Sack N Save Kona

Trust us, the best poke is at the local grocery store. Other good spots are Foodland Waimea and Island Gourmet in Waikoloa.

Roy's Waikoloa Bar & Grill

Merriman's Big Island

Tommy Bahama Restaurant, Bar & Store

CanoeHouse

Hau Tree @ Mauna Kea Beach Hotel

Great restaurant that sits on arguably the best white sand beach on the island.

Cafe Pesto Hilo Bay

Hawaiian Style Cafe

A local institution on the island. Featured on the Food Network and known for good local Hawaiian food, and large portions. This place is a great spot if you're looking for good local food. Just be advised they do not take reservations and sometimes the wait can be long if you're going on the weekend. Get the loco moco, it's an iconic (and delicious) Hawaiian dish.

Motek Bakery

A delicious Jewish bakery right on Angela's hometown main street! It's beshert!

Anuenue Ice Cream & Shave Ice

If you come to Hawaii, you have to have shave ice. It's so, so delicious.

Manuela Malasada Co

A Portugese donut that has made it's way to Hawaii and is now a staple amongst locals and tourists on the islands. You haven't really experienced Hawaii unless you've gotten malasadas.

Parker Ranch Farmers Market on Saturdays

Our favorite farmers market on the island. You'll find the best locally grown tropical fruits and veggies, and also locally made gifts and souvenirs. They also have live music, great açai bowls, and it's a great spot to spend your morning walking around browsing, shopping and eating.

Yoga Barre LLC

If you need a great yoga spot, this is it. Also has great smoothies and açai bowls!

Hulakai Surf & Paddle

Our favorite spot to grab all our vacay essentials: Reef-safe sunscreen (to preserve & protect the endangered Hawaiian reef and the marine life that lives in it), boogie boards, chairs, paddle boards and umbrella rentals. They also have really great merchandise for adults and kids if you need to bring home any souvenirs or gifts.