Help with narrowing down activity ideas

Question

I'm doing some advance planning for our March trip with my adult daughter and I. She has not been to the B I before and will be with me for a week.

I am planning on taking her to the botanical gardens one day, and making the rounds of our favorite beaches, markets, etc.

I need suggestions on a manta ray night excursion that is mellow enough for me (prone to seasickness) and for moderate swimmers. I have seen the one that leaves from A bay. Is that a good one? any help in this area is much appreciated

Also any other ideas for guided hikes? (we are not interested in the volcanoes).

and any other active activities you liked when you were here.

Thank you

Answer

It sounds like you have a wonderful trip planned for March with your daughter! Hawaii's Big Island offers so much to explore, and it’s great that you're thinking ahead to make the experience enjoyable for both of you. I'll break down some recommendations for your manta ray night excursion, guided hikes, and other active activities that you might enjoy, especially considering seasickness and moderate swimming skills.

Regarding the manta ray night excursion, this is one of the most unique experiences you can have on the Big Island, and there are a few tours that might be more comfortable for you given your seasickness concerns:

Tour from A Bay (Anaehoʻomalu Bay): The tour you mentioned from A Bay is a good option. This area is known for its calm waters, which can help reduce the motion of the boat. The tours typically use larger, more stable boats, which may help mitigate seasickness. These tours are also generally mellow, and participants can float on the surface or stay in the boat while watching the manta rays. It's worth calling ahead to ask about the sea conditions and request a larger, more stable boat for a smoother ride.
Other Manta Ray Tours: Consider checking out companies like Manta Ray Dives of Hawaii and Hawaii Oceanic, which are known for providing a great balance of comfort and safety. They offer boat tours that are on larger catamarans, which can provide a steadier experience. Many tours will also allow you to float on the water with a wetsuit and snorkel, rather than diving, so you don’t have to be a strong swimmer to enjoy the experience.
Seasickness Considerations: If you're prone to seasickness, taking seasickness medication like Dramamine before the tour could help. Also, try to pick a tour that operates during calmer evening conditions, as the winds and seas are typically calmer at night.

As for guided hikes, there are several beautiful trails that do not involve the volcanoes and still allow you to enjoy the Big Island’s stunning landscapes:

Pololu Valley Lookout and Trail: This trail offers a dramatic view of the Pololu Valley and coastline. The hike down to the valley floor is about 1 mile (steep downhill, so take it slow), and the view from the bottom is stunning. It's a moderate hike, and though there’s some elevation change, it's not too strenuous for a comfortable experience.
Waipiʻo Valley Lookout: While the hike into the Waipiʻo Valley itself can be quite intense, the lookout point at the top of the valley offers an incredible panoramic view. If you’d like a guided hike, local guides can take you down into the valley on a 4WD tour, which could be a gentler way to explore the area without strenuous hiking.
Captain Cook Monument Hike (Kealakekua Bay): This trail is a bit challenging but offers amazing views of Kealakekua Bay, one of the best snorkeling spots on the island. The hike is about 2.5 miles one way, but it's not too strenuous if you go at a steady pace. There are also guided kayak tours to the monument, which can offer a more leisurely way to see the area.
Mauna Kea Visitor Center to the Summit (Guided Tour): While the volcano is not of interest to you, the summit of Mauna Kea is unique and offers one of the clearest skies for stargazing in the world. Some tour companies provide guided stargazing trips that involve a short hike from the visitor center to view the night sky. It’s a low-impact way to explore the area without doing any strenuous hiking.

In addition to hiking, here are some other active activities you might enjoy:

Snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay: This is a beautiful spot to explore underwater. The bay is calm, with clear waters and abundant marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and sometimes even dolphins. You can either hike down to the bay or take a kayak tour to make the most of your experience.
Kayaking or Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP): If you're looking for a more active water experience, kayaking or SUP along the coastline is a great way to explore at your own pace. These activities are generally mellow and don't require strong swimming skills, as you're close to the shore.
Ziplining: For a bit of adventure, consider booking a ziplining tour. Companies like Skyline Eco-Adventures offer smooth, easy rides through the forest canopy, with breathtaking views. It’s a great way to experience nature from above without the need for strenuous activity.
Hilo Farmers Market and local artisan visits: If you want to experience something less active but still engaging, visiting the Hilo Farmers Market is a great way to see local culture and sample some of the island’s fresh produce and handmade crafts.

Lastly, when planning your trip, remember that the Big Island is vast, so it’s best to pace yourself and not over-schedule too many activities in one day. It’s all about balance — taking the time to relax and enjoy the beauty of the island as well as staying active!

I hope this helps with your planning, and I’m sure you and your daughter will have an unforgettable time on the Big Island!