Hawaii with Grammy!

Question

Hi -- heading to Hawaii next year (Feb-March time frame) with my mother-in-law to celebrate her 80th. This will be her first trip to Hawaii, and it is so special there that I really want to give her a good impression, and find some sightseeing she would like (different from my active/somewhat adventurous immediate family of hubby and sons).

We are planning the Big Island, and here's what I'm curious about:

What are some things to do that are more "mobility-friendly" - she's not mobility challenged, but we need to be mindful (and she tends to trip, for as long as I've known her). I think she could do Akaka falls if we just go to the left (does anyone have a fresh memory on how steep just that part of the loop is?). What about another waterfall or botanical area that is very flat and steady? I looked at the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden but they have warnings on their site about the steepness of the boardwalk, so that seems like a no-go?

And, any other routes or flora/fauna type experiences (in car or flat/easy on foot) to explore? We plan to visit VNP, maybe Punalu'u beach. Home base is Waikoloa Beach Resort, and if I recall the area around there is like mars with the lava fields, which is very cool but I want her to be able to see the lushness and diversity of the island too!

She would not be a fan of farm tours or coffee tours I think (according to my husband/her son). So just looking for some sightseeing on land that we haven't thought of, as we're (my immediate family) usually focused on more active adventures/watersports. Good whale watching near Waikoloa Beach Resort?

Thanks so much in advance!

Answer

Visiting the Big Island with your mother-in-law sounds like a wonderful way to celebrate her 80th! Since she is generally mobile but needs a bit of caution, there are plenty of sightseeing options that are easier on the feet and still showcase the island's diversity—from lava fields to lush rainforests and waterfalls.

For waterfalls and botanical experiences that are fairly easy to navigate:

Akaka Falls: You’re correct that the left side of the loop is the easier route. That short section to the main viewpoint is paved and mostly flat, with only a few gentle inclines. There are railings along the path, making it relatively safe for someone who is mindful of tripping.
Rainbow Falls in Hilo: This is a very short walk from the parking lot to the viewpoint. It’s mostly flat and paved, and you can easily enjoy the waterfall without any strenuous walking.
Laupahoehoe Point Park: A scenic coastal park with paved or level paths along the shoreline. Great for gentle walks and ocean views without any steep inclines.

Botanical gardens and lush areas that are more manageable:

Onomea Bay Trail (Hilo side): The lower portions near the parking area are relatively flat, with easy views of tropical flora and streams. You can enjoy some greenery without committing to steep or uneven trails.
Hilo Farmers Market: Not a botanical garden per se, but a flat, shaded area where she can enjoy tropical fruits and flowers without needing to walk far.
Waipiʻo Valley Lookout: The main lookout is accessible from the parking area. While the valley itself involves steep trails, the lookout provides stunning views with no walking required.

Other sightseeing options that are car- or easy-walk friendly:

Volcanoes National Park: Drive the Crater Rim Road to see the Kīlauea crater, steam vents, and lava flows. Many lookouts are right off the road, so she can enjoy the sights without hiking. The visitor center is flat and accessible.
Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach: A short walk from the parking lot to the beach. It’s a unique sight and she can enjoy seeing the sand and maybe turtles if they are around.
Lava fields near Waikoloa: The Lava Tree State Monument has a short, flat loop trail that is easy to navigate. The unique lava-formed tree molds are fascinating without requiring much walking.

Regarding whale watching near Waikoloa Beach Resort:

February and March are peak whale season. While boat tours are popular, you can often see humpback whales from the shore or from elevated viewpoints along the Kohala Coast. The Hilton Waikoloa area and Mauna Lani Resort coastline are good spots for shore-based sightings.
If she’s open to a gentle boat ride, some whale-watching operators offer very calm excursions suitable for those who prefer minimal activity.

In summary, you can create a very enjoyable itinerary with easy walking and stunning scenery: start with accessible waterfalls and botanical views on the Hilo side, mix in lava fields and coastal drives near Waikoloa, and plan a relaxed visit to Volcanoes National Park. She can experience Hawaii’s variety without the challenges of steep or uneven trails.