Top 5 Outdoor Adventures You Can't Miss on the Big Island of Hawaiʻi
- Aleson Rietow
- Jun 9
- 6 min read
Unforgettable Outdoor Adventures From Mauka to Makai (mountain to the sea)
When planning a trip to the Big Island of Hawaii, you’ll quickly discover that this island offers a perfect blend of land-based adventures and ocean escapes. Towering volcanoes, lush valleys, and black sand beaches invite exploration by foot or car, while the surrounding Pacific Ocean offers its own kind of magic—calm mornings on the water, vibrant marine life, and sunsets that seem to last forever.
Whether you're hiking through a national park or sailing along the Kohala Coast, the Big Island delivers a deep connection to nature and a sense of awe. If you want to truly experience the island’s immense beauty and tranquility, don’t forget to see it from the water, where the views are expansive and the tranquility of the ocean surrounds you.
If you're looking for outdoor adventures on your trip to the Big Island, here are our top 5 recommendations.
One of the most unforgettable ways to experience the Big Island of Hawaiʻi is from the water—sailing along the rugged, wild beauty of the Kohala Coast. Whether you're traveling as a couple, a family, or with a group of friends, a sailing charter offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
From the deck of the boat, you’ll have quiet, panoramic views of the coastline that you just can’t get from land—secluded beaches, lava rock cliffs, and vibrant blue water as far as the eye can see. And because you're out on the open ocean, you’re in the perfect spot to encounter marine life up close. Depending on the season, you might see humpback whales breaching, spinner dolphins leaping, green sea turtles cruising by, and abundant tropical fish darting around coral reefs while snorkeling in pristine coves.
At Kohala Blue, we offer group and private charters aboard Hawai‘i’s only renewable and all-electric sailing catamaran. That means no engine noise, no diesel fumes, and no interruptions to the peaceful rhythm of your time on the water. It's a truly a unique experience that lets you connect with the ocean in a way that's quiet, clean, and eco-friendly.
We provide snacks and refreshments on board, time to swim or snorkel in calm waters, and a spacious deck for lounging and soaking up the sun. Whether you're looking for a morning sail, a midday snorkel adventure, or a sunset cruise, our goal is to make it the highlight of your trip.
2. Watch the Sunset and Stargaze on Mauna Kea
No visit to the Big Island is complete without heading up Mauna Kea. At nearly 14,000 feet above sea level, this dormant volcano offers one of the most surreal sunset and stargazing experiences on Earth.
As the sun dips below the horizon, you’ll find yourself above the clouds, looking out over a sea of soft white mist and golden light. But the real magic happens after dark. With no light pollution for thousands of miles, the sky above Mauna Kea is incredibly clear. That’s why it was chosen—out of all the locations on the planet—as the site for many of the world’s top astronomical observatories. Its elevation, dry air, and remote setting create the perfect conditions for observing the stars.
It's important to note that access to the summit is closed to the public after sunset, but the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station (located at 9,200 feet) offers some of the best stargazing you can experience without a telescope of your own. On clear nights, volunteers often set up telescopes and offer sky tours, and even without any equipment, you'll see more stars than you ever imagined.
For those who want insider knowledge, safe transportation, and an expert stargazing interpretive guide, we recommend booking a tour with Hawaii Forest & Trail. Their knowledgeable guides share the rich cultural and historical stories of Mauna Kea while revealing the wonders of the night sky. Everything you'll need is provided - from warm winter hooded jackets to a hearty dinner and hot cocoa. Their Mauna Kea adventures provide an unforgettable and educational way to experience this extraordinary place.
3. Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing an active volcano, this is your chance. Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park is home to both Mauna Loa and Kīlauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. Visitors can hike across lava fields, walk through lava tubes, and, if you’re lucky, even witness a lava glow or eruption.
It’s a drive from the Kohala Coast (about 2.5 to 3 hours), but it’s worth the trip. Plan for a full day and check the park’s website for current lava viewing conditions. If you’re looking for a tour company, we recommend Hawaii Geo Tours.
4. Hike to Pololū Valley Lookout and Black Sand Beach
If you're seeking a stunning viewpoint and a short hike that delivers big rewards, Pololū Valley on the northern tip of the Big Island is a must-visit. This valley is part of the same dramatic coastline as Waipiʻo, but unlike its sister valley, Pololū remains accessible by foot—and it’s just as breathtaking.
From the Pololū Valley Lookout, you'll take in sweeping views of lush cliffs, ironwood trees, and the black sand beach below. For those who want to explore further, a moderately steep trail descends to the valley floor and beach—a hike that usually takes about 20–30 minutes each way. The trail is well-worn and open to the public, but it can be muddy or slippery after rain, so wear good shoes and bring water. Once at the bottom, you’ll be rewarded with a rugged, raw beachscape, stunning photo ops, and a quiet sense of connection to this sacred place.
It’s one of the best ways to experience the island’s natural beauty without needing a full day or specialized gear—just a little time, curiosity, and respect for the land.
5. Relax on the Big Island’s Most Beautiful Beaches
From powdery white sand to black and even green sand, the Big Island has a surprising variety of beaches. Some favorites include:
Hapuna Beach State Park – A long, white-sand beach perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Mauna Kea Beach (Kaunaʻoa Bay) – Pristine and postcard-worthy, great for snorkeling and relaxing. *note: public beach parking is limited, plan to get there by 8am or earlier for the best chance at getting in.
Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach – A striking beach where you may spot sea turtles sunning themselves.
Papakōlea Green Sand Beach – A unique adventure that requires a hike or 4WD to reach.
Many of the best beaches are on the island’s west side, near Kona and the Kohala Coast—making it easy to pair a day of beach hopping with a sunset sail.
Why Outdoor Adventures on the Big Island Should Include Time on the Ocean
Spending time on land gives you a taste of the Big Island’s incredible beauty—but to truly experience all it has to offer, you need to get out on the ocean. From the deck of a quiet, all-electric sailing catamaran, you'll take in a whole new side of the island: dramatic cliffs, marine wildlife, and the peaceful rhythm of the sea. Whether you're watching whales breach in the distance or snorkeling alongside tropical fish, the coast offers a sense of connection and calm that’s impossible to find anywhere else. When planning your outdoor adventures on the Big Island, don’t miss the chance to explore its wild, stunning coastline from the water.
The Big Island is all about variety—volcanoes and valleys, beaches and stargazing, ocean adventures and cultural treasures. Whether you're here for exploration or relaxation, these five outdoor experiences capture the best of what the island has to offer.
But if there’s one thing you truly shouldn’t skip, it’s spending time on the water. You can’t fully experience Hawai‘i without connecting with the ocean—it’s a central part of life here, both past and present. Sailing along the coast offers a completely different perspective of the island, where the cliffs rise from the sea, the marine life thrives, and the horizon seems endless.
For those looking for a peaceful, intimate experience, consider booking a sailing charter aboard an all-electric catamaran. Unlike traditional boats, there’s no engine noise, no diesel fumes, and nothing to distract from the rhythm of the waves and the beauty around you. Just quiet, clean sailing—and the chance to spot whales, dolphins, and sea turtles along the way.
If you're staying near the Kohala Coast, join us at Kohala Blue for a private or group sailing experience you’ll never forget. It’s one of the most tranquil and memorable ways to round out your Big Island adventure.
Looking for more Big Island travel tips or info on sailing charters from Kawaihae Harbor? Contact us at Kohala Blue or explore our renewably powered electric sailing experiences.
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