Where to stay & things to do in
Big Islands, Hawaii Holidays 2023 & 2024
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The Big Island is Hawaii’s youngest yet largest island in the Hawaiian chain. Not only is it the largest in the chain, but it is also the largest island in the whole of the United States, 65 times the size of Texas! So it’s easy to see how it got its nickname. Home to the most active volcano, Kilauea, The Big Island boasts black, green and white sandy beaches, the stunning Volcanoes National Park and the majestic 422-foot Akaka Falls.
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When visiting The Big Island, you'll not be short of things to do, that's for sure. With so many iconic sights to see, you'll need to plan before you touch down on this beautiful island.
Nestled just minutes from downtown Hilo is the picturesque Rainbow Falls. Eighty feet of cascading water nestled in a bed of vibrant green foliage, you'll be mesmerised by its beauty. With a staircase that brings you to the top of the falls for a birdseye view, you'll need to set aside enough time to enjoy its captivating beauty.
Punalu'u Beach on the southeast coast boasts miles of black sand with free swimming sea turtles occupying the crystal clear waters, the perfect spot to kick back and relax with a good book.
Take an underground tour of Thurston Lava Tube, explore the 500-year-old underground cave lava tube, and discover the inside of a Hawaiian volcano and all its extraordinary features. As one of the most popular attractions on the island, we recommend visiting early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds. Nighttime tours are also available.
Suppose you want to seek shelter from the Hawaiian weather for an hour or so, head to the Imiloa Astronomy Center, a scientific and cultural discovery centre. If you time your visit right, you'll be able to catch the planetarium show that takes place daily.
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The food in Hawaii is amongst some of the most exotic and flavoursome food you'll try in the United States. With fresh fish dishes, including Poke marinated in lemon and herbs, and Spam Musubi, the island's take on the classic spam, the Big Island really does dish out the best cuisine. If fish isn't your thing, no problem! Loco Moco is a local dish made with steamed rice, a hamburger patty, a perfectly fried egg and brown gravy. How about Huli Huli chicken that has been slowly roasted to a golden brown while continuously turning over a grill, washed down with a signature cocktail or locally brewed beer? Be sure not to leave without tasting a Malasada! These Portuguese sugared fried snacks are perfect for when you are on the go and a must-try when visiting the Big Island.
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Between March and September is when the island sees its highest temperatures and the lowest amount of rainfall. August sees temperatures at their highest, reaching around 27°C, while January is when the island is at its coolest, with temperatures only slightly dropping to around 20°C.
Some quick facts
- Time Difference
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-10 hours
- Languages
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English, Hawaiian, Hawaiian Pidgin and Hawaiian Creole
- Currency
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US Dollar (USD)
- Flight Info
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17h flight time from UKHawaii Honolulu (HNL) & Kahului Airport (OGG)There are no direct flights from the UK. Minimum stop is 1 along the way via SFO San Francisco Interntional airport or LAX Los Angeles international airport. Airlines that fly there are United Airlines, American airlines, Air Canada, WestJet, Jet Blue, Lufthansa and Delta.