Lush forest, fragrant blooming ginger, meandering backroads with moss-covered bridges, secret swim holes….and, of course, WATERFALLS! From Hilo north along the Hamakua Coast is the Big Island’s unofficial waterfall corridor, with countless streams and rivers flowing through dramatic gorges and plunge pools, originating high on the slopes of Mauna Kea volcano. Grab your bathing suit, hiking shoes, and get ready to get wet and muddy as you follow this guide for an epic waterfall adventure.
Waimea, Honokaa, and Waipi'o Valley
Grab your cowboy boots and get ready for an adventure deep into Paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) country! This road trip takes you from Kona north to Waimea, a little mountain town at just under 3,000 ft. elevation and along the Hamakua Coast to the breathtaking Waipi’o Valley Lookout and historic Honokaa town. This is a beautiful ride through raw, open country with gorgeous views, and plenty of spots to stop for good eats along the way. There is an optional hike down into Waipi’o Valley, and a tour of a local chocolate farm.
What's Brewing on the Big Island?
There’s nothing like a nice cold beer after a day under the hot Hawaiian sun. From refreshing ales, feisty IPA’s, fruity ciders, rich porters, and everything in between, there are some excellent brews to be found on the Big Island of Hawaii. Two of the island’s best breweries are located in Kona, My Hawaii Hostel’s home town. For true beer nerds, it’s possible to hit up all four breweries on the island if you’re really committed. Here’s the 411 on Big Island breweries.
South Point and Green Sands Beach
One of the most epic road trips on Hawaii Island is an adventure to South Point and Green Sands Beach. If you love cliff-jumping, hiking, stunning views, and rugged, natural spaces this is a ‘must’ for your Big Island bucket list. Starting from My Hawaii Hostel in Kona, this blog will cover the road trip to South Point and Green Sands Beach, plus where to stop along the way for good eats and sights.
Surf Kona
In old Hawaii, the ocean was revered as a sacred place and he’e nalu (surfing) was the art of Ali’i, or royalty. Surfing was considered a spiritual experience, with ceremonies performed beforehand to ask the Gods for favorable surfing conditions. Heiaus (temples) were built in honor of the art. Kona - our hometown - offers unique surfing with its historic surfing spots and beautiful reef breaks. If you’re interested in catching some waves during your stay, here is our guide to the best surf spots for beginner to intermediate surfers and where to take lessons in Kona, Hawaii.
Visitor's Guide to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park - Updated 10/22/2021
Located on the largest island of the most remote archipelago on the planet, Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park offers a fascinating glimpse into the geologic processes that make Hawai’i special. The park has much to offer for travelers seeking a rugged, “real” view of Hawai’i along with fascinating history, intriguing geology, and unique biology. One of our favorite ways to experience this magical place is to head out on one of the park’s stunning day-hikes. Read on for a guide to the most interesting attractions and hikes, plus tips on getting there and what to bring.
Best Kona Beaches
Kona is the Big Island’s favorite beach town. From world class snorkeling and diving, to heavy beach breaks, surf breaks, to rugged remote spots, Kona is a beach lover’s paradise. Pack up the cooler, and grab your teeniest bikini, because it’s time to hit the sand. Good news, sun-worshippers: Kona’s dry, clear weather means pretty much every day is a good beach day! From convenient beaches in town, to North Kona beaches, here is a list of our favorites. Don’t forget your reef-safe sunscreen.
Go Hilo
If you love lush green jungle, history, and most of all, stuffing your face - a road trip over Saddle Road to Hilo from Kona is well worth the drive. The county seat of the Big Island, Hilo is the oldest city in the Hawaiian island chain. This historic town has a lively music, arts, and food scene, plus stunning natural beauty with it’s waterfalls and beaches. Follow this guide for an epic road trip over Saddle Road from Kona to Hilo. You may not want to come back...until it starts raining.
The Historic Kohala Coast & Pololu Valley
The drive from Kona to the Kohala Coast on the northern tip of the Big Island is gorgeous. As you get north of the airport, the landscape opens up to reveal sweeping views of Mauna Kea, the Kohala Mountains, and a view of Maui’s Haleakala on a clear day. This route passes numerous world class beaches and several historical sites for those interested in Hawaiian culture and history. During the winter whale season, it’s possible to spot whales breaching along the way. The ultimate destination of this trip is spectacular Pololu Valley.
Dolphins, Snorkeling, and South Kona Beaches
Grab your snorkel gear and follow this itinerary to see dolphins, vibrant coral reefs, and some of South Kona’s most beautiful beaches, plus where to stop for ono eats along the way. A note on respecting the Nai’a (Dolphins): do not chase or try to touch these amazing creatures. Observe them from a respectful distance.
To Rent a Car or Not?
So, you’re a backpacker on a budget stoked to explore the Big Island. You want bang for your buck, without sacrificing glorious tales of adventure to take back home. You want more time lounging on white sand beaches, enjoying good eats, and cooling off under waterfalls… not stressing about how on earth you’re going to get there.