2026/27 ISLAND OF HAWAI’I HOLIDAYS AND TOURS

Nicknamed the Big Island by locals, the island of Hawai’i is larger than all the seven other major Hawaiian Islands combined, and is the most recently formed thanks to its active volcanoes. The Big Island is wild and untamed. Home to only 13% of the state’s population but with more than half of the archipelago’s landmass, a visit here is a visit to unspoiled nature, and outdoor lovers will be in for a treat.

Loosely divided into east and west, the island’s two distinctive sides each offer visitors something different. In the east, Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park dominates the jagged landscape. Rising from vast lava fields dotted with hissing craters and glowing with molten lava lie some of the most active volcanoes on Earth. Explore on your own or with a guide along the set trails and see some of the planet’s most impressive geological forces in action. Afterwards, head into Hilo, the main town on this side of the island to get a feel of the real Hawai’i. Life here is laid-back and a stop at somewhere like the weekly Hilo Farmer’s Market will offer a taste of local life.

From bird watching to ziplining and horse riding; go back in time with a hike through the breathtaking Waipi’o Valley, and explore important cultural sites such as Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park, an ancient Hawaiian place of refuge dating back to the 15th century.

On the western side of the island, or Kona, as it is also called, lies Hawai’i’s famous Kona Coffee plantations growing the USA’s only coffee bean – as well as beautiful sandy coves and crystal clear waters perfect for snorkelling. The Kona side is also home to spectacular resorts offering access to innumerable outdoor and water-based activities.

No visit to the island of Hawai’i is complete without spotting the huge dormant volcano that rises from the middle of the island, Mauna Kea. Considered one of the best places on the planet for stargazing, it is the highest peak in the archipelago at 13,802 ft (4,207m), and home to one of the world’s most important observatories. While the Mauna Kea Observatories are not open to the public, booking a guided stargazing tour is well worth one’s time – just remember to bring a very warm jacket – and the perfect finish to any stay on this most incredible of the Hawaiian Islands.