Hawaii (Big Island)

Attractions on the Big Island

We recommend all visitors to the Big Island of Hawaii to explore a few of the Big Island's top attractions.

List of Big Island Attractions

Akaka Falls State Park
Located 13 miles north on Hwy 19, 2 miles west on Hwy 220, approximately 20 minutes from Hilo.
Walk through natural bamboo stands and a wild ginger grove over streams to a 400 ft falls.

Akatsuka Orchid Gardens
South on Hwy 11, Left past 22 mile marker, Volcano, HI 96785
808-967-8234

Downtown Hilo
Kamehameha Avenue, Hilo
Various specialty shops, Farmers Market, restaurants and services available. Free parking.

Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden
PO Box 80, Papaikou, HI 96781
808-964-5233
A photographer's paradise featuring a botanical garden, waterfalls and beautiful coastline. Some call it the most beautiful area in Hawaii.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Located 29 miles south on Hwy 11
808-985-6000

The home of the active Kilauea Volcano features an observatory, museum, fern jungles, and Steam Bluff. A walk through a lava tube and many hiking trails are available for you to explore and enjoy.

Hilo Living Hall of Fame
Banyan Drive, Hilo
Banyan Trees planted by various dignitaries, celebrities and some planted in honor of our momentous events. First plantings were started in 1933 by such celebrities as George Herman (aka Babe Ruth), Cecil DeMille, Mary Boland and others.

Historic Parker Ranch Homes
PO Box 458, Kamuela, HI 96743
808-885-5433
Featuring the original ranch house from the 1840s and the Parker's sixth generation French Provincial home including works of art.

Kahaluu Beach Park
79-6739 Alii Drive, Kailua-Kona, HI  96740
Snorkel with exotic fish and play with the turtles.  Snorkel gear rental and snacks available.

Lapahoehoe Train Museum
On the side of Hwy 19 at Lapahoehoe.
808-962-6300
Restored railroad home that presents the history of railroad on the Island of Hawaii.  Featuring ongoing track "engine" restoration.

Lyman House Memorial Museum
276 Haili St, Hilo, HI 96720
808-935-5021
Hawaiian natural and cultural history in permanent displays, special exhibits, an 1839 missionary home and unique gift shop. Walking tours, lectures, Hawaiian culture workshops are available by advance reservation.

Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Visitor's Center
One Macadamia Rd, Hilo, HI 96720
808-982-6562
Macadamia nut orchards and factory. Enjoy free samples in the Visitor Center.

Mehana Brewery
275 East Kawili Street, Hilo, HI  96720
808-934-8211
Premium ales and lagers brewed in Hilo.  Tours available.  Free tasting (21 and over).

Nani Mau Gardens
421 Makalika St, Hilo, HI 96720 (South on Hwy 11, left past 3-mile marker)
808-959-3541
Over 20 acres of tropical gardens, orchids, and waterfalls. Botanical museum, restaurant, and gift shop.

Pacific Tsunami Museum
130 Kamehameha Avenue, Hilo, HI  96720
808-935-0926
This museum includes an ocean science center, the story of Laupahoehoe, Papua New Guinea and more.

Parker Ranch Visitor Center
Parker Ranch Shopping Center, P.O. Box 458, Kamuela, HI 96743
808-885-7655
Museum highlights the history of the ranch and includes family artifacts such as family bibles, china, quilts, replica gowns and uniforms. Video presentation on the history and daily operations of the ranch.

Punalulu Black Sand Beach
Located 55 miles south on Hwy 11
The most accessible black sand beach on the Big Island.  Endangered turtles come every year to lay their eggs.

Rainbow Falls Park
Located 2 miles west off Hwy 19 on Hwy 200
If youre lucky, a rainbow appears in the mist.

Volcano Art Center
PO Box 104, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, HI 96718
808-967-8222
This nonprofit educational organization center operates a retail fine arts gallery and offers visual, literary, and performing arts programs.

Volcano Winery
35 Piimauna Dr, at end of Volcano Golf Course Road, PO Box 843, Volcano, HI 96785
808-967-7479
Free wine tasting and gift shop available.

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