Hawaii Island Itinerary Options

A Guide to Customizing Your Clients’ Hawaii Island Experience

Every traveler is unique, and no single itinerary is going to work for everyone. Therefore, one sample itinerary isn’t going to cut it for every traveler. However, there is one structured day-by-day itinerary on this page that is an overall generic starting point for you, but the other suggestions listed will serve as flexible options to help you tailor recommendations based on your clients’ interests and preferences.

For example, Not everyone wants to snorkel, and not everyone is up for an intense hike—so it’s essential to qualify your clients properly to ensure you’re suggesting the right experiences for them.

You’ll find suggested resorts categorized by budget and style, along with a variety of activities broken down by adventure level and travel style. Of course, some iconic sights and must-visit locations appeal to almost everyone, and those are included as well. Use these suggestions as a starting point to craft the perfect Hawaiian getaway for your clients headed to Big Island.

Resort Suggestions Based on Client Type

NOTE: This is not an exhaustive list. These are just the top recommendations for each type of client to give you a starting point. You’ll still need to make suggestions based on your clients budgets and that will vary from client to client.

Honeymooners with a higher budget:

  • Fairmont Orchid
  • Four Seasons Hualalai
  • Kona Village
  • Mauna Kea
  • Mauna Lani
  • Westin Hapuna

Honeymooners with a lower budget:

  • Outrigger Kona
  • Marriott King Kamehameha
  • Royal Kona
  • Waikoloa Beach Marriott

Families with Small Children (budgets vary):

  • Fairmont Orchid
  • Hilton Waikoloa Village
  • Marriott King Kamehameha
  • Mauna Kea Resort
  • Mauna Lani
  • Outrigger Kona

These resorts have lots of activities and things to do to engage children as well as some have kids club options

Families with Teens or those wanting a Condo & have lower budgets:

Based on clients with children over 13 that need multi-bed or multi-bedroom options, as well as those that want a kitchen.

  • Aston Kona by the Sea
  • Kings Land
  • Castle Hali’i Kai at Waikoloa
  • Royal Sea Cliff Kona Outrigger

These resorts offer condo style accommodations where multiple beds may be needed for older kids.

What to Suggest in Itineraries Based on Interests

Must-See & Common Attractions for Most People:

  • Go to a Luau: There are several luau options you can choose from for your clients. I recommend not having them do this on their first couple nights so they have had time to adjust to the time difference.
  • Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Explore the park and see an active lava flow if it’s currently happening. This can be an all day adventure, so be sure to plan this as a standalone item for one entire day. There are options for tours you can book, or clients can do this on their own if they have a car.
  • Mauna Kea Observatory: Visit the summit for spectacular stargazing and possibly view telescopes used by astronomers. You’ll need to book a tour for this.
  • Akaka Falls State Park: Paved Trails go through the lush rainforest to view the stunning 442-foot Akaka Falls. 
  • Punalu’u Black Sand Beach: Visit one of the island’s most famous beaches known for its black sand and turtle sightings. Depending on which way they drive to Volcanoes National Park this can be done on the way there, or as a separate activity if they decide to explore the south shores of the island.
  • Kailua-Kona Town: Explore the charming town and shop in local markets.
  • Anaeho’omalu Beach & Hapuna Beach: Spend a relaxing day at one of the island’s most beautiful beaches.
  • Hilo: Stroll through the lush town with its waterfalls, gardens, and vibrant local culture.
  • Coffee Farms: Visit one of the many coffee farms for free tours and free coffee tastings
  • Rainbow Falls: This waterfall is located in Hilo and very easy to access for pretty much anyone since it has a parking lot and disability access to view it.
  • Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden: Located on the east side of the island, this lush, tropical garden features more than 2,500 species of rare and endangered plants. Visitors can hike the trails to see waterfalls, cross bridges and take in the views of Onomea Bay.
  • Take a Sunset Cruise: This is a great option to do as a farewell experience the night before you depart.

For the History Buff:

  • Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park: Visit this sacred site where ancient Hawaiians could seek refuge and be absolved of their wrongdoings. Explore the historic heiau (temple) and learn about Hawaiian law and traditions.
  • Hulihe’e Palace: Located in Kailua-Kona, this historic royal vacation home turned museum showcases Hawaiian artifacts and provides insight into the lives of Hawaiian royalty.
  • Kealakekua Bay & Captain Cook Monument: Learn about the historical significance of the bay, where Captain James Cook was killed. Take a boat tour or kayak to the monument.
  • Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site: Explore the ruins of the largest heiau (temple) built by King Kamehameha I, and learn about the unification of the Hawaiian Islands.
  • Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park: Discover ancient fishponds, petroglyphs, and historic sites that were once part of the traditional Hawaiian fishing village.
  • King Kamehameha Statues: Admire the iconic statues of King Kamehameha I. There are 2 of them on Big Island. One in Hilo in front of the courthouse. The other on is in the small town of Kapaʻau, in front of the North Kohala Civic Center. Which is not far from where Hawaii’s greatest king was born.
  • Lyman Museum & Mission House: At the Lyman Museum and Mission House in historic downtown Hilo, visitors can browse exhibits on volcanoes, view gem and mineral displays, admire Hawaiian artifacts and learn about the history of Hawai’i and its people.

For Adventurous Travelers:

  • Helicopter Tour over Volcanoes or Waterfalls: Experience the thrill of flying near a volcano and possibly seeing the flowing lava from above. There are also other helicopter tours that go over beautiful waterfalls. There is a weigh limit for these flights, so be sure to collect that information prior to booking. 
  • Night Snorkel with Manta Rays: Swim with manta rays off Kona’s coast in a unique night dive experience. Mauna Kea Resort offers this right off of their beach, or there are other tour companies that you can book with that take a boat out on the water to do this.
  • Off-Road ATV Tours: Ride through lush forests and rugged terrain at Kipu Ranch or other off-road locations.
  • Snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay: Explore one of the best snorkeling spots on the island, accessible by boat or kayak.
  • Zip Line: Soar above tropical landscapes and stunning coastlines for a high-adrenaline adventure. The Umauma Experience has a zipline that goes right over the top of a waterfall and it’s pretty epic.

Popular Hikes for Active Clients:

  • Kilauea Iki Trail: Hike through volcanic landscapes and past steaming craters in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This could be added to their Volcanoes National Park day.
  • Pololu Valley Trail: A short but steep hike offering breathtaking views of the valley and the rugged coastline.
  • Mauna Kea Summit Trail: A challenging hike to the top of the tallest mountain in Hawaii, where you’ll experience breathtaking views. Experienced Hikers only for this one. 
  • Waipi’o Valley Lookout: Hike down into the valley for stunning views of waterfalls, cliffs, and a black sand beach.
  • Green Sand Beach (Papakolea): A challenging hike through volcanic terrain leading to one of the only green sand beaches in the world. This is located on the south shore and could be done on the way to Punalu’u Black Sand Beach. It’s about 3 miles in over very rough terrain. There are oftentimes some local boys hanging around in the parking area with 4×4 that will take you in and back out for a fee. 

1 Week Sample Itinerary for the Basic Traveler

Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation 

This is assuming they’re staying in either Kona or Waikoloa area

 

  • Arrive in Kailua-Kona: Pick up rental car and check into your resort and settle in.
  • Afternoon: Spend some time relaxing and getting acclimated. If you arrive early, take a walk around Kailua-Kona town and explore the local shops, or just enjoy some downtime at your resort or hotel.
  • Optional: If you have time and energy, visit the Greenwell Coffee farm just south of Kona and do a free tour and coffee tasting. Or if you arrive early enough, opt for visiting the Hulihe’e Palace located in Kailua-Kona. This historic royal vacation home showcases Hawaiian artifacts and provides insight into the lives of Hawaiian royalty.
  • Evening: Relax with a peaceful evening at your resort, enjoy the sunset views, and prepare for the next day’s adventure.

Day 2: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park & Hilo 

  • Early Morning: Depart early for Hilo, the largest town on the Big Island. Start by taking a selfie with the King Kamehameha statue located in front of the courthouse, then explore Liliuokalani Gardens, a serene Japanese garden offering beautiful views of Hilo Bay.
  • Late Morning: Head to the Hilo Farmers Market (if open) to browse local crafts, produce, and island goods, then head to Rainbow Falls for a view of a beautiful waterfall located just outside the town.
  • Afternoon: Head to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Spend the day exploring the park, starting with the Kilauea Visitor Center to get information about the park’s history and trails.
  • Midday: Be sure to take time to view the petroglyphs (short hike) and the active Kilauea Caldera.
  • Late Afternoon: Continue exploring the park, walking the Sulphur Banks trail to see sulfur vents, or exploring the Thurston Lava Tube.
  • Evening: Head to the Volcano House for panoramic views and watch the glowing lava lake from the viewing areas (if lava activity allows). Make reservations ahead of time for dinner if you don’t want to drive to Hilo for dinner. 

Day 3: Southern Coast and Beaches (South Kona Area)

  • Morning: Visit the Green Sand Beach (Papakolea), accessible via a hike or a local with 4×4 for a fee. Enjoy the unique green sand and dramatic coastal views.
  • Midday: Explore Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, where you can spot sea turtles and relax in this beautiful, quiet area.
  • Afternoon: Visit Ka Lae (South Point), the southernmost point in the U.S. It’s a great spot for photos and exploring the rugged coastline.
  • Evening: End your day with a Sunset Cruise along the Kona coast, offering great views of the coastline, the ocean, and perhaps a glimpse of dolphins or whales (seasonal).

Day 4: North Coast Adventures (Waimea and Surroundings)

  • Morning: Drive to the quaint town of Kapaau and get a selfie with one of the King Kamehameha statues, then head to Waipi’o Valley. Start with the Waipi’o Valley Lookout for sweeping views of the valley, then embark on a short hike into the valley to explore the lush landscape, waterfalls, and a secluded black sand beach.
  • Early Afternoon: Visit Akaka Falls State Park to take in the sights of both Akaka Falls along the paved hiking trails.
  • Midday: On the way back to Kona/Waikoloa, stop in  Waimea town, known for its paniolo (cowboy) culture for snacks.
  • Evening: Attend a traditional Hawaiian Luau for an immersive cultural experience with traditional food, music, and hula dancing.

Day 5: Kona Coast

  • Morning: Start the day with a Snorkeling Trip to Kealakekua Bay, a marine sanctuary famous for its crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, and view the Captain Cook Monument from the ocean.
  • Afternoon: Head to Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park. A sacred site where ancient Hawaiians could seek refuge and be absolved of their wrongdoings. Explore the historic heiau (temple) and learn about Hawaiian law and traditions.
  • Late Afternoon/Evening: Visit Mauna Kea Visitor Center or head to the Mauna Kea Observatory for a stargazing tour and a chance to look through powerful telescopes.

Day 6: Relaxation and Scenic Exploration

  • Morning: Spend a relaxing morning at Hapuna Beach, one of the island’s most popular beaches for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing.
  • Afternoon: Take a stroll through Anaeho’omalu Bay for a peaceful retreat and stunning views.
  • Evening: Enjoy a night Manta Ray Swim and experience these gentle giants up close.

Day 7: Coffee & Coastal Views

This day will depend on when your flights depart:

  • Morning: If you didn’t already do this on day 1, start your day with a visit to one of the famous Kona Coffee Farms. Take a tour to learn about the coffee-growing process and sample some of the world-renowned Kona coffee. You could visit Greenwell Farms the oldest coffee farm on the island for an informative free tour and free coffee tasting.
  • Afternoon: Visit Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park for ancient fishponds, petroglyphs, and history.
  • This day could also be spent just relaxing at your resort until you need to arrive at the airport for your flight.
Go Back