We noticed that you're using an unsupported browser. The TripAdvisor website may not display properly.
We support the following browsers: Windows: Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox. Mac: Safari.

Island of Hawaii

Free Newsletter

Interested in Island of Hawaii?

We'll send you updates with the latest deals, reviews and articles for Island of Hawaii each week.
More Lists
Lists you may be interested in:
See All Island of Hawaii Lists
We remove posts that do not follow our Traveller Lists guidelines.
We reserve the right to remove any lists for any reason.
Report a problem
Explore the world! TripAdvisor has reviews and information on over 400,000 locations, including:
Vacation Specials
Travel Destinations

Explore other Island of Hawaii resources:

  [ Create a List ]
cruzpete's Traveler List
Vote on this Traveler List!

Write a thankful note to show in this member's profile.Compliment cruzpete

Roadtrip on the Big Island

Ask this member a question. cruzpete I got an insider's tour of the big island
26 Dec 2006
3.0 of 5 stars based on 5 votes
Place to go on the big island
  • Explore locations featured in this Traveler List: Island of Hawaii, Naalehu, Pahoa, Hawaii, Hilo, Kamuela
  • Category: Roadtrip
  • Traveler type: Sightseeing, Active/Outdoors, Never been before
  • Appeals to: Couples/romantics, Students, Active/adventure
  • Seasons: Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
  • Tags: 4WD, beach, snow
1. Mauna Kea Observatories
http://www.ifa.hawaii.edu/mko/
This is a great other-worldly place. I thought I was on Mars up there. The landscape is breathtaking (in both ways). This place is worth all of the trouble it takes to get up there. 4WD isn't required for this place, but a little caution is. You MUST bring very warm clothing - this is the only place on the island that you need winter clothing. Don't forget to stop at the visitors' center to acclimate to the elevation...
2. Waipi'o Valley
Waipi'o Valley, Island of Hawaii, Hawaii
It's another 4WD location -- but it's by far the most "worth it" place to go. The drive in is steep, but it's one of the most spectacular places on the island. If you don't have your own transport, you can arrange it down there.
3. Pololu Valley Lookout
Pololu Valley Lookout, Island of Hawaii, Hawaii
Don't stop at the lookout, hike down into the valley. It's even more spectacular down on the beach!
4. South Point (Ka Lae) and Green Sand Beach
South Point (Ka Lae) and Green Sand Beach, Naalehu, Island of Hawaii
If you don't have 4WD, be prepared to walk. The 4WD ride from South Point to the green sand beach is pretty darn cool, and absolultely worth it!
5. Mookini Heiau
Mookini Heiau, Island of Hawaii, Hawaii
They chopped people's heads off here -- at this off the beaten path landmark. There's no signs, but you gotta find the right roads and gotta have 4WD to find it.
6. Kalani Oceanside Retreat
Kalani Oceanside Retreat, Pahoa, Island of Hawaii
A great place in Puna. Takes care of your body and soul.
7. Laupahoehoe Beach Park
Laupahoehoe Beach Park, Hawaii, United States
North of Hilo along the coast -- it's a beautiful spot -- a seemingly idleal place to be. It has a somber past.
8. Akaka Falls State Park
Akaka Falls State Park, Hilo, Island of Hawaii
Gorgeousness!
9. Onomea Bay
Onomea Bay, Island of Hawaii, Hawaii
If you're driving north along the coast from Hilo, make sure to visit this place. The road is scenic and there's a great botanical garden too.
10. Kehena Beach (Puna)
http://www.punaguide.com/puna-beaches.html
Deep in Puna is a beautiful beach. If you like the naked counter-culture world you should come here. Just don't come on a weekend, cuz it's sooper busy. This place is on the beach road about 1 mile from Kalani Resort.
11. Hapuna Beach State Park
Hapuna Beach, Kamuela, Island of Hawaii
Explore locations featured in this Traveler List: Island of Hawaii, Naalehu, Pahoa, Hawaii, Hilo, Kamuela