Crazy Idea

Question

We (active couple in late 50s) are finishing a week in Maui and then headed to Kauai for a week.

Everyone we meet tells us we need to visit the Big Island. Being up early with the roosters, I've been having crazy thoughts about extending our trip to do so. Plus it snowed 8 inches at home yesterday and 10 more is forecasted on Saturday.

I normally do a ton of research so this would be a total wing it. Can someone give me some guidance on a quick 3 to 5 day extension? We would fly from Kauai into Hawaii. I definitely want to go to Volcanoes National Park. We did whale watching here in Maui and will do snorkeling before we're done so those are not priorities.

Answer

It sounds like you're up for an adventure, and a last-minute extension to the Big Island is a great idea! Given that you’ll be coming from Kauai and already have a week in Maui, adding 3 to 5 days on the Big Island is certainly doable and will give you a diverse experience, especially with your interest in Volcanoes National Park. The Big Island offers a lot to explore, and here's a quick guide to help you plan your short visit:

1. Volcanoes National Park (Must-See):

Your primary interest seems to be Volcanoes National Park, and for good reason! It’s a highlight of the Big Island and offers plenty to explore in a short time. You can see Kīlauea, one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Highlights include the Kīlauea Caldera, the Thurston Lava Tube, and the steam vents. If you’re lucky, you might even see some lava flowing, depending on volcanic activity. It’s a great place for scenic hikes, but even just driving through and stopping at viewpoints can be incredibly rewarding.

2. Explore the Island’s Diverse Landscapes:

The Big Island is known for its diverse landscapes, from beaches to rainforests to high-altitude deserts. Given that you’re active, there are a few other options to make your visit more memorable:

Hawaiian Coffee Farms: The Big Island is famous for its Kona coffee. If you're a coffee lover, consider visiting a coffee farm near Kona to learn about the production process and sample some of the best coffee in the world.
Hiking at Mauna Kea: You can take a hike or a scenic drive up Mauna Kea, one of the tallest mountains in the world when measured from the ocean floor. It’s a great place to see the sunset, and at the summit, you can stargaze at one of the clearest skies on Earth.
Akaka Falls State Park: A beautiful spot if you enjoy nature. You’ll find two stunning waterfalls in a lush rainforest setting. The short hike to the falls is an easy, scenic walk.

3. Kona & Coffee Tours:

If you’re looking for a relaxing day with a taste of local culture, consider spending a day in Kona. The town has charming shops, great food, and plenty of opportunities to learn about the coffee-making process. You can also explore the Kona coast’s historic sites, such as the Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, also known as the City of Refuge.

4. Active Adventures: Ziplining and Kayaking:

If you’re up for more adventure, consider doing a zipline tour through the forest or kayaking along the coast. The Big Island offers some great zipline tours through tropical forests, and kayaking can be a fantastic way to see the coastline and maybe spot some dolphins or sea turtles. These activities tend to be accessible and fun for people of all activity levels.

5. Relax and Unwind:

If after all your exploration you want to unwind, the Big Island also has some amazing beaches. Kailua-Kona and the Kohala Coast offer beautiful, less crowded beaches. Spend a day soaking up the sun and enjoy the scenery.

Logistics:

When you fly in from Kauai, you’ll likely land at either Kona International Airport (KOA) or Hilo International Airport (ITO). Kona is more popular and centrally located for most of the major attractions like Volcanoes National Park, so I’d recommend staying in the Kona area for the bulk of your trip. However, if you want to visit the Hilo side for waterfalls and lush rainforests, consider spending a night or two there as well. It’s about a 2-hour drive between the two cities, but the landscapes and climate are quite different, so it’s worth the time.

Accommodations:

For a short stay, there are plenty of options in both Kona and Hilo, ranging from resorts to boutique hotels and vacation rentals. You could stay in Kona for a few nights to be closer to Volcanoes National Park and the beaches, then take a day trip to Hilo to explore the waterfalls, lava tubes, and rainforests. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, you could also stay in one area for the entire visit.

In summary, a 3 to 5 day extension on the Big Island is a fantastic idea if you're looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation. You’ll get to see Volcanoes National Park, enjoy stunning landscapes, and perhaps even discover a new favorite spot on the island. Whether you focus on hiking, exploring coffee farms, or just enjoying the natural beauty, the Big Island has plenty to offer in a short amount of time. Just be sure to pace yourself and take in the scenery!

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