🌋 5 Must-See Outdoor Places on Hawaiʻi Island (The Big Island)

At Hungaro Explorer, we’re passionate about showing travelers the real Hawaiʻi — beyond the resorts and crowds. Our guided outdoor adventures on the Big Island are designed to connect you with the island’s natural beauty, volcanic power, and rich Hawaiian culture. Whether you want to hike, explore hidden waterfalls, or feel the spirit of aloha in nature, this island has it all.

Here are five must-see outdoor places on the Big Island of Hawaiʻi that every explorer should experience.

1. Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

Location: South of Hilo

This is the ultimate Big Island adventure destination. At Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, you’ll walk where the Earth is still alive — across fresh lava fields, steaming craters, and ancient rainforests.

Explore Kīlauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, and Mauna Loa, the planet’s largest volcano. Hike through the Kīlauea Iki Crater, where molten lava once glowed, or wander through the Thurston Lava Tube, a tunnel carved by flowing magma centuries ago.

If conditions allow, you might even spot active lava flows or the crater glowing at night — a sight you’ll never forget.

Explorer tip: Visit around sunset and stay for stargazing. The clear skies and volcanic glow create one of the best night views in Hawaiʻi.

2. Waipiʻo Valley Lookout

Location: Hāmākua Coast

Few places capture Hawaiʻi’s natural and cultural beauty like Waipiʻo Valley, also known as the “Valley of the Kings.” From the lookout, you’ll see a sweeping view of emerald cliffs, black sand beaches, and lush tropical forest — a true symbol of the island’s wild spirit.

Adventurous travelers can hike down the steep valley road or take a guided tour (4WD only) to explore the valley floor, where waterfalls, taro patches, and wild horses roam.

Explorer tip: Go early in the morning for soft light and fewer crowds. The view is spectacular in the first rays of the sun.

3. Akaka Falls State Park

Location: North of Hilo

If you’re chasing waterfalls, Akaka Falls is a must-see. The easy, paved loop trail winds through a lush rainforest filled with bamboo, ferns, and orchids before revealing the 442-foot waterfall cascading into a deep gorge.

This is one of the most photographed spots on the Big Island — perfect for a short, scenic stop or a peaceful stroll surrounded by tropical beauty.

Explorer tip: Combine your visit with the nearby Peepeeko 4-Mile Scenic Route, a hidden gem filled with ocean cliffs, rainforest tunnels, and local charm.

4. Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park

Location: South Kona

For those interested in Hawaiian history and culture, Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park offers an unforgettable window into the past. Once a sacred place of refuge for ancient Hawaiians, this coastal site preserves wooden temples, royal fishponds, and lava rock walls that tell the story of a powerful island kingdom.

The park’s setting — framed by turquoise waters and black lava rock — is as peaceful as it is beautiful.

Explorer tip: After exploring the park, head next door to Two Step Bay for some of the best snorkeling on the Big Island.

5. Pololū Valley Lookout and Trail

Location: North Kohala

At the far northern tip of Hawaiʻi Island lies Pololū Valley, a wild, untamed paradise. The short but steep trail from the lookout leads to a stunning black sand beach surrounded by towering green cliffs. It’s one of the best places to feel the Big Island’s natural energy and serenity.

You’ll often have the beach nearly to yourself — just the sound of waves, wind, and birds echoing through the valley.

Explorer tip: Sunrise is magical here. The golden light over the cliffs and ocean makes it worth the early wake-up.

🌺 Final Thoughts

The Big Island of Hawaiʻi isn’t just a vacation destination — it’s an experience that touches your soul. From volcanic craters and sacred valleys to cascading waterfalls and ancient cultural sites, each place tells a story of creation, strength, and connection to the land.

At Hungaro Explorer, we believe the best way to experience Hawaiʻi is to get outside — to hike, explore, and immerse yourself in the island’s raw beauty. 🌋🌿

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