Things to do in Hawaiʻi County

The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a truly unique attraction, home to two volcanoes, including Kilauea, the most active volcano in the world. During your visit you will witness the breathtaking spectacle of the landscape changing in front of you, as lava flows sculpt the surrounding rock. The primal geological forces at work have earned this park a central role in native Hawaiian culture, and you will be able to learn all about the traditional beliefs and sacred rituals as you discover this natural wonder.

Located on the North West coast of Hawaii’s Big Island, Mauna Kea Beach is a strong contender for the title of the island’s best beach. It is attached to the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, one of Hawaii’s most famous resorts that has been consistently popular ever since it opened in 1965.

Hapuna Beach State Park is home to the largest white sand beach on Hawaii Island, the perfect destination for swimming, snorkelling or soaking up the sun’s rays. Next to the beach, you’ll find the Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel, with its sister hotel, the famous Mauna Kea Beach Hotel nearby. The park itself covers 25 hectares on the north-west coast, and offers excellent hiking trails to help you explore the surroundings.

The summit of Mauna Kea is the highest point in the state of Hawaii, standing at 4,205 metres above sea level. However, when measured from the floor of the Pacific Ocean it stands at more than twice the height of Mount Everest. It is one of the five volcanoes that make up Hawaii’s Big Island, although it has been inactive for the previous 4,600 years.

Commonly known as Snorkel Beach, the waters off Kahalu’u Beach Park are one of the best destinations for divers and snorkelers. The bay is protected from the open ocean by a thick sea wall, built during the reign of King Kamehameha. The sheltered beach was designated for sole use by the royal family, but now the calm waters are open to all visitors, and are especially suited to families.