There are four main tourism islands in Hawaii: Hawaii (the Big Island), Maui, Oahu, and Kauai. Each of these islands are unique in their offerings and vibe. Do not be surprised if you fall in love with more than one! You can always island hop.
Hawaii is the largest and youngest of the islands is often referred to as The Big Island. Here you will be able to see an active volcano that is still growing the island by approximately 40 acres a year! The island is also one of the most diverse in climate zones. There are green mountains in the center, dry volcanic rock in the west, abundant rain, rainforest, and waterfalls in the east, and wind cliffs to the south.
The attitude of The Big Island is very chill and time has its own meaning. You could definitely take your time winding around the coastal roads and stop off at wave beaches interspersed with snorkel beaches. For this reason, I bring my own snorkel gear. You can rock the tourism route on Ali’i Drive (Kona), sip cocktails while watching the waves break on the beach, and pick up some local artisan jewelry.
Some of my favorite swimming and snorkeling spots around the Big Island include: Hapuna, Hōnaunau Bay (Two-Step), and Punaluʻu Beach. Honestly, you could just drive the coastal roads and you will see little nooks that you can stop and explore. Each are so different from each other, but one things for certain, be safe and respectful. Hawaii has a proud culture and they are actively trying to protect their environment. So in that line, please ensure that you are using reef safe sunscreen, not touching the reefs, pick up your trash, and treat people with Aloha.
Hapuna, located in Waimea, is a great white sand beach with beautiful waves that is popular with everyone. There is a fair amount of parking and steps that lead down. I highly recommend a beach umbrella or pop-up shade, flip flops, sunscreen, and a rash guard. This is a great place to bring a body board and catch some of those waves. If you are swimming, be careful of the current. It can be quite strong (from personal experience). Remember if you get caught in a current to swim to the side and not try to swim forward.
Hōnaunau Bay, also known as Two-Step, is an absolute must for snorkeling and located in South Kona. It is located next to the Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, one of the most important historic places in the islands. One big thing to know about this spot is the parking. It is very limited. You can park on the street, the is a $5 lot (it’s legit), or if you go to the Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, you pay for parking at the kiosk. That parking is good for a week and it’s a small trek over to the lava steps. When you are on the lava, you can see the center area that everyone uses to enter the water. It’s best not to deviate from this entrance. Everyone is pretty nice about taking their turns entering and exiting. Watch your fingers on the lava as there are little holes that urchins nestle themselves in.
Punaluʻu Beach is in the south of the Big Island towards Volcano. This could be why it is one of the gorgeous black sand beaches in Hawaii. This is also a happening spot to check out giant turtles. They come up on the beach and sun themselves so you will be able to see them up close. Though, give them distance and seriously – DO NOT TOUCH THEM! And no, you are not allowed to take the sand either. Besides what you cannot do, this place earns a spot on the top five beaches you cannot miss. A little side note here, while you are in the Punaluʻu area, you really need to stop at the Punaluʻu Bakery (also available in most supermarkets there). The bread here is to die for, especially the macadamia nut cinnamon bread. I boxed some up and shipped it to myself. Also, get yourself some guava jelly. If you go to the supermarket, there are a few including a Hawaiian Sun sugar free version.
Other highlights of the Big Island that you may want to put on your list to visit would include: South Point (cliff diving), Kilauea (favorite volcano), Pololū Valley Lookout (gorgeous and pretty drive), Hawi (pretty boutique style town), Hilo (weekend market should not be missed), and the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden (large garden with hard to find plants, be sure to wear good walking shoes). Some people like to go to Mauna Kea, but it’s not been one of my chosen spots. It’s a bit too steep for me.
Now to the goodies….. where do you stay. I am a big advocate for staying around Kona or the north western side of the island. It’s less rainy, less people, and a lot more of what you come to Hawaii for.
Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort: spanning 81 acres of stunning geologic landscape and richness. Kona Village. A Rosewood Resort debuted in 2023 and drew inspiration from the history of the sit, local culture, and natural elements. The Resort features 150 unique standalone guest hale/bungalow with locally-inspired decor and a privileged sense of seclusion. An array of distinct experiential. gathering and dining venues. including the original resorts beloved Shipwreck Bar and Talk Story Bar offer elevated yet relaxed experiences. Kona Village also was given three Michelin Keys if that in itself gives you any idea of the level of an experience you are going to receive. Booking with me will also get you even more perks on top of all of this: Elite benefits vary by property, but may include:
• Daily breakfast for up to two people per bedroom
• Complimentary one-category upgrade at booking or upon arrival (whenever available)
• Personalized welcome
• Pre-registration prior to arrival
• No relocation policy for Elite clients
• Additional property-specific enhanced amenities, listed on the hotel’s Elite site
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai: The resort is in the exclusive Hualalai residential community on the beautiful Kohala coast north of Kona. The resort is fringed by exceptional ocean frontage with its own natural beach. Guest rooms and suites are surrounded by lush vegetation and are housed in intimate two-story bungalows in small crescents along the beachfront and the golf course. All rooms include a sitting area and a furnished lanai/balcony. Complimentary wifi for unlimited devices with high speed internet. The large bathroom features a deep soaking tub, separate shower stall, and wc. Guests may experience the challenge of the championship Hualalai golf course, a game of tennis or a tropical beauty treatment at the uniquely Hawaiian sports club and spa. Six seaside pools permit quiet lounging, sandy paddling for children or snorkeling among thousands of tropical fish. An extensive array of restaurants offers a style for everyone. The spirit of Polynesian lives in the hearts of all at the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai where the magical mana of life force of Hawaii melds with acclaimed personal service to make every stay memorable. This resort was given two Michelin Keys and is well worth a visit. Booking with me will get you the following perks:
Early check-in, late check-out (subject to availability)
Daily breakfast for 2
100USD hotel credit for rooms or 200USD for suites & private retreats
Room upgrade to next category (subject to availability)
She Travels in Style 