Hawaii Big Island Top 10 Best Outdoor Activities and Adventures

Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable journey filled with outdoor thrills and breathtaking adventures? Look no further than Hawaii's Big Island! With its diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to volcanic craters, this paradise offers endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Get ready to dive into a world of excitement as we explore the top 10 best outdoor activities and adventures awaiting you on the Big Island.

Top 10 Best Outdoor Activities and Adventures on Hawaii Big Island

1. Hiking Adventures

Venture into the heart of the island and discover its hidden treasures through its extensive network of hiking trails. Lace up your boots and set off to conquer iconic trails like the Mauna Loa Summit Trail, where you can hike across supernatural volcanic landscapes and witness mesmerizing views stretching as far as the eye can see. Don't miss the chance to explore the lush wonders of Akaka Falls State Park, where you can trek through verdant rainforests and witness the majestic cascades of Akaka Falls.

Hiking Adventure, Hawaii Big Island
Mauna Kea for Hiking

2. Waterfall Chasing

Prepare to be enchanted by the island's enchanting waterfalls, scattered like hidden gems throughout its verdant landscapes. Take a refreshing dip beneath the cascades of Rainbow Falls, where the shimmering waters create a mesmerizing display of colors in the sunlight. For the ultimate adventure, embark on a thrilling helicopter tour to witness the inaccessible beauty of hidden waterfalls nestled deep within the island's remote valleys.

Rainbow Falls, Hawaii
Rainbow Falls (Hawaii Big Island)

3. Snorkeling and Diving

Dive into the crystal-clear waters surrounding the Big Island and discover a vibrant underwater world teeming with life. Explore the kaleidoscopic coral reefs of Kealakekua Bay, home to an array of colorful marine species, including majestic manta rays and playful dolphins. For a truly unforgettable experience, embark on a night snorkeling adventure to witness the mesmerizing dance of the nocturnal manta rays beneath the starlit sky.

Kealakekua Bay Hawaii
Kealakekua Bay (Hawaii Big Island)

4. Volcano Exploration

Embark on a journey to the fiery heart of the island and witness the awe-inspiring power of its active volcanoes. Explore the supernatural landscapes of Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, where you can witness the primal forces of nature at work as lava flows into the sea, creating new land before your eyes. Don't miss the chance to hike through the dramatic crater landscapes of Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, where you can witness the raw beauty of volcanic activity up close.

Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park
Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park

5. Stargazing Adventures

With its remote location and minimal light pollution, the Big Island offers unparalleled opportunities to witness the celestial wonders above. Join a guided stargazing tour atop Mauna Kea, where you can peer through powerful telescopes and marvel at the dazzling beauty of distant galaxies, nebulae, and stars.

Stargazing at Mauna Kea, Hawaii Big Island
Stargazing at Mauna Kea, Hawaii Big Island

6. Zip Line Through the Rainforest

Get your adrenaline pumping with a zip line adventure through the lush rainforests of the Big Island. Soar above cascading waterfalls and verdant canopies as you experience the thrill of flying through the treetops. 

Rainforest, Hawaii Big Island
Rainforest, Hawaii Big Island

7. Horseback Riding in Waipi'o Valley

Saddle up for a scenic horseback riding excursion through the breathtaking Waipi'o Valley. Traverse rugged trails, cross freshwater streams, and marvel at panoramic vistas of towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls.

8. Kayak to Captain Cook Monument

Paddle along the pristine coastline of Kealakekua Bay on a kayak excursion to the historic Captain Cook Monument. Along the way, you'll pass secluded beaches, sea caves, and thriving coral reefs, making for an unforgettable journey.

Kayak to Captain Cook Monument
Kayak to Captain Cook Monument (Credit: dronepicr Via Wikimedia)

9. Summit the Pu'u 'O'o Vent

For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, conquering the Pu'u 'O'o vent offers a thrilling adventure. This rugged trek takes you through lava fields and barren landscapes to reach the summit, where you'll be thrilled with panoramic views of the island's volcanic terrain.

Pu'u 'O'o vent
Pu'u 'O'o vent

10. Surf at Banzai Pipeline

No visit to Hawaii would be complete without catching a wave at one of its world-renowned surf breaks. Head to the Banzai Pipeline on the North Shore of the Big Island, where you can test your skills on epic swells and ride the waves like a true waterman.

Banzai Pipeline Surfing
Banzai Pipeline Surfing (Credit: Fosterand sons via Wikimedia)

Conclusion

Hawaii's Big Island is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a diverse array of adventures to suit every taste and preference. Whether you're hiking through lush rainforests, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, or stargazing beneath the twinkling night sky, the island promises an unforgettable experience at every turn. So pack your bags, and get ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime on the majestic Big Island of Hawaii!

Also Check: