Kiholo Bay

Begin your day with a sweeping view of Kiholo Bay from the scenic viewpoint along the road.

This pristine white sand beach along the Kona Coast is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling or kayaking--making it great for the whole family!

Lava Tube Cave

The Huehue lava tube is an enormous and ancient lava tube formed from Hualalai Volcano. Have a look for it on your left-hand side as you’re driving down Mamalahoa Highway. Please note: This lava tube used to be accessible to the public but has been closed off to visitors for safety reasons. So drive-by only.

Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park

Check out goat pens constructed out of stones, fishponds and fish traps, petroglyphs, altars, and even a heiau!

Kailua-Kona

We will pass through Kailua-Kona on Ali’i Drive. You are welcome to stop here now to grab a bite to eat, walk around this quaint seaside town, or pick up snacks for the road. Or, feel free to return at another time.

Magic Sands Beach Park

The beach is also known as “La’aloa,” White Sands, or Disappearing Sands, and it got the name from the sand that is pulled off from the beach during the winter or early spring, leaving the lava rock exposed.

Kahalu'u Beach Park

Have you ever seen a church on the beach? Well, here you can! Look out for a small white church perched right on the beach. This beach is also a popular surf spot and also a great place to snorkel. In fact, the rock structure to the right of the church is a one-of-a-kind heiau or temple thought to be dedicated to surfing.

Kamehameha III Birthplace

Take a walk to learn a bit about Hawaii’s history and the story of one of its most famous kings, Kamehameha III. The walking area has historical signs and markers along the way explaining how Kona has been home to important royal sites since the 1600s.

Pull over for a look at an ancient battlefield and burial ground. While you’re stopped, we’ll tell you the story of this historic spot.

Big Island Bees

Big Island Bees makes honey from all sorts of flowers that are grown on the island. With over 2,500 hives and 125 million bees, they know their stuff. Stop by to walk through the museum, look at the shop (which has body care products, too!), and sample some of their locally-produced honey -- for free!

Kealakekua Bay

Kealakekua Bay is a marine life conservation district. Because the water here is usually calm, underwater life thrives making it a great spot for snorkeling. While you’re there, look out in the distance for a white structure -- that’s the Captain Cook monument commemorating the death of the British sea captain and first European to discover the islands.

Pu'uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park

Within the park are several historical landmarks like the grounds where the ali’i (royalty) lived within the Pu'uhonua.

Two Step Beach got its name from the lava rock steps you can use to enter the bay. You can access the beach on Honaunau Beach Road, just before the entrance to the Pu'uhonua.

St Benedict’s Painted Church

This historic church was built in 1899 by Father John Velghe of Belgium. Unlike the typical stained glass windows that you’ll find in churches, this religious site is completely painted on the inside.

Kealakekua

At this point in the tour, you might be feeling a little hungry. As we drive back along South Kona Belt Road, we’ll mention some great lunch options along the route between Honaunau and Kealakekua.

Kona Coffee Living History Farm

Kona coffee is one of the most renowned java in the world. Here’s your chance to learn about the famous brew and what it takes to fill a mug. At this living history museum, you can take a self-guided tour through the orchard, farmhouse, and coffee mill.

Greenwell Farms

Another great spot to learn about coffee and its importance to this region of Big Island is the Greenwell Farm and Museum. This is a multi-faceted agribusiness using modern farming practices. In addition to growing their own coffee plants, they also buy and process coffee beans from over 300 farmers in the Kona District.

Aloha Theatre

As you drive down the road, you’ll see the Aloha Theatre -- a historic site that was once the place to go in the 1930s for live shows and entertainment. Fortunately, the community has helped to preserve it, and today they still have live performances.

Kailua-Kona

Once you arrive back in Kailua Town, we suggest you hang out for a bit. Stop for a bite to eat overlooking the ocean.

Waikoloa

After a full day of exploring, we'll enjoy a leisurely drive back to Waikoloa with more fascinating stories to keep you entertained. When we reach Waikoloa, you'll have the option of visiting a few cultural sites with ancient petrogylphs or rock drawings.

Hilo

We’ll begin our tour in Hilo Town. Although this town may be small, there’s plenty to see and do.

King Kamehameha Statue

Our tour begins at the King Kamehameha Statue in Hilo. Learn the fascinating backstory of this 14-foot bronze sculpture of Hawaii's first king and how it ended up in Hilo.

Coconut Island

Coconut Island is a small beach park in Hilo accessed by a small bridge. This island is also called Moku Ola, which means 'healing island' or 'island of life', and it used to be the home of an ancient temple that was dedicated to healing. Legend has it that swimming around the island three times would heal any ailments or ill feelings.

Lili'uokalani Botanical Garden

Liliuokalani Gardens is one of the gems of Hilo Town. This park is known as the biggest edo-style garden outside of Japan! In this serene park you’ll find majestic red bridges over Koi ponds, statues, and pagodas, along with stone lanterns lining the pathways.

Rainbow Falls

Located just a short drive from Downtown Hilo is Rainbow Falls. On sunny days, rainbows appear amid the 80-foot falls, making for some pretty magical views. The broad waterfall - nearly 100 feet in diameter - plunges over a natural lava cave into the river below. Parking at Rainbow Falls and the Boiling Pots requires a paid parking pass. One parking payment covers both locations.

Boiling Pots

A few minutes down the road, you’ll find Boiling Pots, a chain of overflowing waterfalls that looks like boiling pots of water after it rains. Parking at Rainbow Falls and the Boiling Pots requires a paid parking pass. One parking payment covers both locations.

Kaumana Caves Park

Kaumana Caves is a massive cave part of a 25-mile-long lava tube created by the Mauna Loa lava flow of 1880. The public part of the cave stretches about 2 miles and quickly goes pitch black as soon as you enter.

Naha Stone

Pull over in front of the Hilo Public Library, and take a look at the Naha Stone on the grass outside. In ancient times the Naha Stone was believed to have spiritual powers and that whoever could move or overturn this 5,000-pound rock would then be granted the power to unite the islands. Legend has it that at the age of 30, Kamehameha successfully overturned the stone. He later united the islands of Hawai'i and became its first king.

Onomea Trail is an easy hike that runs along a breathtaking section of coastline with 180-degree views of Onomea Bay. The trail to the bay is short, less than a mile roundtrip, but it’s worth it for the photo opportunities alone! You can also take the fork in the trail to explore Onomea stream where it opens to the ocean.

Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden

Stroll through a manicured garden with over 2,500 plant species, then we recommend a visit the nearby Hawai'i Tropical Botanical Garden. The garden protects the unique and endangered plants of the rainforests and features miles of trails under a canopy of trees. The place is magical!

Akaka Falls State Park

Arguably one of the most famous waterfalls on the Big Island, you can take a half-mile stroll on a paved path through a lush rainforest filled with wild orchids, bamboo groves, and draping ferns to get a glimpse of this iconic natural wonder.

Umauma Falls

Ready for another waterfall? Follow the signs for the Umauma Experience and take their self-guided driving tour to see this stunning three-tier waterfall. Stop by the visitor center first to register and grab a map. Then enjoy a scenic drive through a beautiful tropical garden before heading to the spectacular Umauma Falls viewpoint.

Laupahoehoe Train Museum

When you take this tour, we’ll tell you all about the history of sugarcane in Hawai'i. This industry once flourished on the islands, and railways were a key mode of transportation for this vital export. This museum celebrates the history of the Hamakua Coast and the railroads that connected this Big Island’s sugarcane industry to the rest of Hawai'i and the world.

Laupahoehoe Tsunami Memorial

In 1946, there was a devastating tsunami in this area that killed over 150 people. Many of them were school children. During the tour, you’ll hear the story of this tragic day and learn about a few brave survivors.

Waipi'o Valley

Waipi'o Valley is one of the most beautiful and storied valleys in Hawai'i. According to legends, the gods lived in Waipi'o in ancient days. The sacred valley was also the royal center for many ancient rulers on the Big Island and was the boyhood home of Kamehameha the Great.

Well, do we have a treat for you! On our way out of Honoka'a, we’ll guide you to TEX Drive In -- a local spot with hearty plate lunches that will keep you fueled and ready to go for the rest of your journey.

Waimea

Waimea Town is an artsy farm town known for its quaint bed and breakfasts and cowboy history. Waimea also has lots of amazing restaurants, a theatre, art exhibits, and historic ranches.

Waimea Nature Park (ula La'au)

The name of this park is Ulu La’au which means "circle of trees" in Hawaiian. It’s a great place for a stroll or a picnic to relax next to a flowing stream.

This quaint plantation-style shopping center features several unique stores including: The Gallery of Great Things, a collection of Hawaiian, Polynesian and Asian art; Waimea Coffee Company; and Waimea General Store, offering local gift items and island-inspired souvenirs.

Paniolo Heritage Center

Take a step back in time to the days of the Hawaiian cowboy! Learn about the history of the paniolo and learn why they are such an important part of Hawai'i ranching history. The museum is free and open to the public. Visit their website for details.

Anna Ranch Heritage Center

The Anna Ranch is a national historic site that harks back to the Big Island’s plantation days. The white, wooden walls contain a lot of stories; it’s been in the same ranching family for five generations and was home to Anna Lindsey Perry-Fiske, aka the first lady of ranching.

Parker Ranch

Here you’ll find two historic houses built in the 1800s. The houses serve as the Parker Ranch headquarters. Explore the grounds and historic homes on one of their self-guided tours. It's a great way to experience what life was like on this iconic ranch throughout the years.

Kahua Ranch

Book a horseback riding adventure at Kahua Ranch Na'alapa Stables and experience the spectacular panoramic views of Waimea's rolling hills. Led by experienced paniolos. Visit their website for details.

After Waimea Town, you’ll embark on your drive across Saddle Road, officially named the Daniel K. Inouye Highway. This is the main thoroughfare on the Big Island that connects Kona in the west with Hilo in the east. Along this 50-minute drive, we'll keep you entertained with more history, geology, and music. We'll also share the inspiring story of the highway's namesake--Daniel K. Inouye.

Maunakea Visitor Information Station

The summit of Mount Everest is higher above sea level than the summit of any other mountain, but Mauna Kea is the tallest when measured from its base on the ocean floor to its summit. Astronomers from around the world explore the universe from its peak, and Hawaiians have many ancient spiritual connections to this special site. For visitors, it is one of the clearest places on the planet for viewing the night sky and offers a rare opportunity to experience the polar tundra in Hawai'i.

Hilo

After our visit to Mauna Kea, we'll guide you back to Hilo. If you are staying in Hilo, we recommend checking out the highlights in the app for recommendations of other places to see here in Hilo Town.

Kailua-Kona

We will bypass Kailua Town and head straight for South Point on the Hawai'i Belt Road. Along the way, you'll hear about the area's rich history and drive through this amazing agricultural region known for its world-famous Kona Coffee.

Keauhou Shopping Center

You’re in for a long drive ahead, especially if you’re planning on making the trip to South Point to visit the most southern point of the United States.

Ka Lae translates in Hawaiian to ‘the point,’ and is the southernmost point of land in the United States. The area has a desolate beauty all on its own with wind-bent trees and cliffs that feel like the end of the world. You can visit an ancient fishing heiau, look for migrating whales, watch local fishermen, or cheer on the brave souls taking the 40-foot plunge off the cliff.

Mark Twain Monkey Pod Tree

This area is a small village called Waiohinu where Mark Twain, while he was here, planted a monkeypod tree. This little town still exists and is home to a second-generation descendant of the monkey pod planted by the famous author. A hurricane claimed the original tree in 1956, and today’s tree sprouted from its roots.

Punalu'u Bake Shop

At this point, you might need a bite to refuel, and where better than a bakery that specializes in Hawaiian sweet bread--the Punalu'u Bakeshop! Make sure you stop by to try some of its famous sweets and treats. In Hawaiian, Punalu'u means “the volcanic ashes." It’s the southernmost community in the US with a post office. There are only around a thousand people living here, and it’s a nice quiet rural town.

Whittington Beach Park

Whittington is a peaceful little rest area with picnic tables and excellent views of the ocean and surrounding cliffs.

Punalu'u Black Sand Beach

Punalu'u is well-known in Hawaiian culture and legends. It is known as a “Wahi Pana”, or sacred place, and was seen as an oasis in the Ka’u desert. Punalu'u Beach is famous not only for its black sand but also for its sea turtles. Green sea turtles are usually all over the place here, sleeping on the beach and swimming next to you in the ocean.

Ka'u Coffee Mill

Take a short detour to Pahala Town to check out the Ka'u Coffee Mill and get some free samples of this delicious coffee and macadamia nuts at their gift shop.

Drive a short loop to see some neat lava tree molds. Lava trees form when fast-flowing lava moves through a forest and completely surrounds moist trees. The tree burns up on the inside as the lava cools on the outside, resulting in a lava shell left in the shape of the tree.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park offers dramatic volcanic landscapes as well as glimpses of rare flora and fauna. The park encompasses two active volcanoes: Kilauea, one of the world's most active volcanoes, and Mauna Loa, the world's largest active shield volcano.

Volcano Village is the perfect place for a quick stop. You can gas up, stop at some of the cute boutiques or grab a snack at the Kilauea General Store. If you’re hungry for dinner, there are also some sit-down restaurants you can try.

Akatsuka Orchid Gardens

Moriyasu Akatsuka started the orchid gardens here in 1974 after running a family orchid nursery in Japan. If you stop at the gardens, you can walk through their greenhouses and view all of the different types of beautiful orchids they raise and ship out to customers across the globe.

Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Visitor Center

At the retail store, visitors can taste test the farm's many assorted flavors. They also sell delicious dairy-free macadamia nut ice cream by the scoop. You can also watch a video of the macadamia nut candy being made and walk around their beautiful grounds.

Panaewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens

Just outside Hilo is the only rainforest zoo in the US, Panaewa Zoo. This is a perfect spot to bring the kids! While you’re there, look for the zoo’s stars--two Bengal tigers. The white one is named Tzatziki, and the orange one is named Sriracha.

Imiloa Astronomy Center

The ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center is part of the University of Hawai'i at Hilo and is a gathering place that integrates science and Native Hawaiian culture. They have a visitor’s center with wonderful exhibits, programs and events. Since Hawaiian society was built on exploration and observation, Hawaiian cultural practices have become an important part of ‘Imiloa’s exhibits.

Mauna Kea Summit

Mauna Kea is the tallest mountain in the world--when measured from the ocean floor to its summit. Astronomers from around the world explore the universe from its peak, and the Hawaiian people go to it in search of ancient spiritual connections. The visitor center, located 9,000 feet above sea level, is one of the clearest places on the planet for viewing the night sky.

Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site

How many places in America can you walk in the footsteps of a king?

Lapakahi State Historical Park

Explore a large area of ruins from an ancient Hawaiian fishing village in North Kohala

The Original King Kamehameha Statue

Marvel at a nine-foot-tall golden-helmeted and spear-wielding bronze depiction of King Kamehameha the Great

As Hawi Turns

Visit for a unique and amazing experience of the life and fashion in Big Island

Pololu Valley Lookout

Gaze at the spectacular coastline toward the east and then hike down to see the great Pololu Valley

Kohala Mountain Road

Gander at rolling hillsides, ranches, and beautiful jaw-dropping vistas while driving on your tour

Waimea Town Market

Visit and shop a wide variety of terrific produce, food and other unique items locally grown and produced

Kilauea Visitor Center

Stop here to ask a park ranger some questions, fill up your water bottle, or use the restroom. If you didn’t bring a jacket, the gift shop at the Visitor Center usually has sweatshirts for sale. You might want to pick one up here, as temperatures vary drastically across the park.

Steam Vents

Stop and stare at a cloud of steam formed from underground water meeting hot volcanic rock.

Learn about the history of the Kilauea Military Camp which dates back almost 100 years. Today, it offers accommodations near the park for military families.

You'll definitely want to stop at these two overlooks for the best views of Kilauea Caldera and Halema'uma'u Crater. Uekahuna is the highest point on the rim and offers spectacular views of Kilauea Caldera, Mauna Loa, and the surrounding area. It is also an important cultural site for Native Hawaiians. Note: The Jagger Museum, which used to be located at Uekahuna, has been relocated to the Kilauea Visitor Center after earthquakes from the 2018 eruptions destroyed the original building. Kilauea Overlook offers visitors the most dramatic views of the caldera and Halema'uma'u Crater. The crater experienced a dramatic collapse during the 2018 eruptions. You can access the popular Crater Rim Trail from either lookout. The trail circles the rim, offering an even closer view of the volcano.

Sulphur Banks

This 1.2-mile hike (roundtrip) is actually a leisurely walk along a paved path where you’ll see more steam rising from the ground. Feel free to hike this now or after your trip down Chain of Craters Road.

Back in 1959, this mile-long crater was a seething lava lake spewing fountains of lava up to 1,900 feet in the air.

Nahuku - Thurston Lava Tube

This magnificent natural landmark is one of the most popular spots at the national park. There is a well-maintained trail that takes you inside a 600-foot lava tube and through a lush rainforest.

Kilauea Iki Trail

The Kïlauea Iki Trail is technically a 4-mile hike that takes you along the rim of Kilauea Iki and down to the crater floor, where you can feel the pulse of this magnificent volcano from the still-steaming crater floor. If you’re pressed for time, there's a shortcut. Just across the street from Nahuku Lava Tube is a short trail to the bottom of Kilauea Iki Crater. This shortcut takes about one hour to complete. Please know, there is a steep decline through the forest into the crater. Once you get to the crater floor, snap as many photos as you’d like, then work your way back up to the parking area the same way you came.

Devastation Trail

You’ll feel like you’re on Mars as you take in the terrain on your walk along Devastation Trail. This one-mile trail takes you along the path of a destructive and explosive eruption dating back to 1959. Along the way, you’ll see spots where life is beginning to regrow and find a large barren lava mound called the Pu’u Pua'i Cinder Cone -- a perfect example of how mother nature forms new mountains.

Puhimau Crater

Does seeing the views of massive volcanic craters ever get old? We don't think so! Chain of Craters Road got its name from the handful of massive craters with viewpoints along the road. Puhimau Crater is one of many dramatic holes likely formed around 1500-1800 AD. In our opinion, this gigantic pit crater is one of the best views on the tour. What’s a pit crater you ask? It’s a depression in the ground that forms when a volcano shifts or expands--and surprisingly not the result of an explosion.

More of a stroll than a hike, the Maunaulu Fissure Hike is at the site of a 1969 eruption that spewed lava up to 200 feet in the air, destroying a native 'ohi'a forest in the area. As you walk you’ll see lava trees and a variety of volcanic formations. The trail is marked with stacked rocks. Please do not disturb the rocks or build new stacks.

The overlook is built on Holei Pali, a steep cliff with a 2,000-foot drop. At the Kealakomo Lookout, in addition to the panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean, you will also have an expansive view of the vast lava flow in 1971 that buried portions of the ancient coastal village of Kealakomo.

One of our favorite stops on the tour, the Pu'uloa Petroglyphs hike tells the story of Hawaii’s past. As you walk along this trail you’ll see ancient petroglyphs or inscribed images on stone. This hike takes about 20 minutes each way and ends at a well-maintained wooden boardwalk that circles many of the 23,000 petroglyphs in this area. In fact, this site is home to the largest grouping of petroglyphs in Hawaii! As you walk, remember to respect the sacredness of this place.

Holei Sea Arch

You can view the Holei Sea Arch from the observation area located just past the gate at the end of the Chain of Craters Road. This 90-foot sea arch was formed roughly 500 years ago from an ancient lava tube that hardened as it entered the ocean. And just within the last 100 years or so, the sea arch was sculpted by ocean erosion.

Kipuka Puaulu Trail

If you have more time to explore, we'll take you on a sweet little side trip across the highway, just down the road from the main entrance.