Big Island

You have the unique opportunity to watch one of nature's most powerful, beautiful processes as the earth unfurls to release its magma from the volcanoes. As one of the most active volcanoes on the planet, Kīlauea volcano is consistently one of Big Island's biggest attractions. Its reputation precedes it as a sacred place for Native Hawaiians as well. Marvel at the active Mauna Loa, learn about volcanology at the Jaggar Museum, take a selfie at the viewpoint overlooking the Halema'uma'u Crater. The long, underground cave formed by ancient flowing lava called the Thurston Lava Tube (Nāhuku) is another must-see.

Hawaii's black sand beaches are a world-class attraction. Punaluu Black Sand Beach, located on the southeastern Kau coast, draws its striking color from volcanic activity. Hawaiian Green Sea turtles often bask on the shore here — be sure to observe from a distance, as they are an endangered species.

Perfect for the beginner, Two Steps, a colloquial name for Honaunau Bay, is the marquee location for a jumping off point. There are plenty of sightseeing opportunities while exploring the sea, with corals, varied topography, and an abundance of ocean life.

Mamalahoa Kona Heritage Corridor was named in honor of Kamehameha the Great’s “Law of the Splintered Paddle.” The storied footpath granted runners safe passage for centuries, and today the 10-mile Mamalahoa (paddle) Kona Heritage Corridor survives with stories of Hawaii's past and present. The immigrant influences of Europe, Asia and the Americas are still evident in the historic architecture, shrines, coffee farms, art galleries and Holualoa Village.

Hilo is a region of Hawaii known for its dramatic waterfalls, fertile rainforests, blooming gardens and its geographic inverse of the volcanic Kohala Coast. Hilo is also the gateway to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, located 45 minutes south. You'll find plenty to do with a collection of renowned museums, art galleries, unique shops and everlasting favorites like the Hilo Farmers Market.

Historic Kailua Village (Kailua-Kona) is a vivacious seaside town in the heart of the sunny Kona Coast. When the sun sets, Kailua Village puts forth a lively nightlife with live music, great local food and ocean vistas. During the day, find a variety of shops, cafes, historical sites, and more.

Visitors are never short of activities in Keauhou. Just south of the Historic Kailua Village, the Keauhou area has become one of Hawaii's most frequented destinations. The waters are perfect for snorkeling, scuba diving and kayaking. Enjoy a combination of golf courses, spas and fine resort restaurants on land. Spot manta rays at night as they meander near the shores to feed on microscopic plankton, and you may even see napping honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles) in the shallow tide pools as well.

A centerpiece of Hawaiian culture, Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau is a 180-acre national historic park that once served as home to royal grounds and a sanctuary for ancient Hawaiian lawbreakers. Back in the day, those who broke kapu (or sacred law) were given one chance of redemption: evade pursuers and arrive at a pu’uhonua, or a sacred place of refuge. If successful, there would have been a ceremony of absolution, and the law-breaker would return to society.

The Hamakua Heritage Corridor takes you on a scenic day trip along the Hamakua Coast. Drive 45 miles along sea cliffs, through lush valleys and tropical rainforests with ample opportunities to explore old plantation towns, see amazing waterfalls and take scenic detours.

Puukohola Heiau is a stunning stone structure visible from the road. Located north of Kohala Coast's resorts, the National Historic Site is home to one of the largest restored heiau (temples) in Hawaii. Heiau were sacred places of worship for Native Hawaiians, and Puukohola Heiau itself was built to fulfill a historic prophecy.

This thin strip of white-sand beach is flanked by the Anaehoomalu Bay on one side and two ancient Hawaiian fishponds, Kuualii and Kahapapa, on the other. Located near the Waikoloa Marriott, it is a favorite spot for swimming, windsurfing, snorkeling and other water activities.