George Boyle
Planning a honeymoon in Hawaii? The Big Island, also known as Hawaii Island, is the largest and most diverse of the Hawaiian Islands. It offers breathtaking scenery, incredible natural attractions, a thriving food scene, and world-class accommodations. From snow-capped mountains to tropical rainforests, lava fields, secluded beaches, and gushing waterfalls, the Big Island has something for everyone. With two main airports, Kona and Hilo, the island is easily accessible, and its mild year-round weather makes it a perfect destination for newlyweds seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Scenery | Breathtaking, including black-sand beaches, stunning landscapes, and wildlife |
| Attractions | Thriving rainforests, secluded beaches, historic villages, massive lava fields, gushing waterfalls, and an active volcano |
| Food | Amazing local food scene |
| Accommodations | World-renowned accommodations, including luxury resorts, and private beaches |
| Weather | Mild year-round. Summer can reach the low 90s with slightly less rainfall between March and November. Average daytime temperatures range between 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit. |
| Best time to visit | April, May, August, September, and October for fewer crowds. December to April for great whale-watching opportunities. |
| Travel time | 5-hour flight from the West Coast. Minimum 10-hour flight from the East Coast. |
| Airports | Two main airports: Kona Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA) and Hilo International Airport (ITO) |
| Number of visitors | 1,674,208 visitors in 2022, making it the third most visited Hawaiian Island |
| Size | More than 4,000 square miles, the largest and youngest of the Hawaiian Islands |
| Terrain | Diverse and unique, featuring snow-capped mountains, tropical rainforests, lava fields, deserts, and green meadows |
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What You'll Learn
- The Big Island has a diverse mix of landscapes, from rainforests to secluded beaches
- There are many luxury resorts and hotels to choose from
- The weather is mild year-round, with slightly less rainfall between March and November
- There are two airports on the island, with the western side being sunnier and drier
- There is a wide range of activities, from hiking to snorkelling
The Big Island has a diverse mix of landscapes, from rainforests to secluded beaches
The Big Island of Hawaii is aptly named, as it is bigger than all of Hawaii's other islands combined. It is a place of diverse landscapes and ecosystems, from arid deserts to lush rainforests, and it boasts 11 out of 13 world climate zones. The island's varied climates range from tropical rainforests to arid deserts and alpine, subarctic regions. The Big Island truly has something for everyone, whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both.
The Hilo region, on the eastern side of the island, is known for its lush landscapes and cascading waterfalls. Here, you'll find the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, a 40-acre garden featuring a stunning variety of tropical plants, including orchids, heliconias, and palms. The garden’s trails lead visitors through dense jungle, past waterfalls, and along the coastline, offering a serene and immersive experience. The nearby Akaka Falls State Park is home to one of Hawaii’s most famous waterfalls, with an easy hiking trail that takes visitors through a lush rainforest to a breathtaking view of the 442-foot Akaka Falls.
The Saddle Road, which traverses the island between the Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa volcanoes, offers another opportunity to experience the island’s ecological diversity. As the road climbs in elevation, the landscape shifts from lush rainforest to arid desert. At the highest elevations, the climate becomes alpine and subarctic, and the summit of Mauna Kea, the island’s tallest volcano, rises to an elevation of 13,796 feet.
The Big Island is also home to secluded beaches, such as the famous black sand beaches of Punalu'u and Hapuna. These beaches are renowned for their unique sand colours and natural beauty. The island also boasts thriving marine life, with humpback whales, dolphins, sea turtles, and tropical fish easily spotted during diving and snorkelling experiences.
For those seeking a mix of urban excitement and natural wonders, the island of Oahu offers a blend of big city living and beach culture. Oahu is home to the state capital of Honolulu, where you'll find a diverse culinary scene, cultural landmarks, jazz clubs, and historic sites such as Iolani Palace and the King Kamehameha I Statue. Just a short distance away, you can relax on the famous Waikiki Beach or explore the North Shore's big wave surfing and local parks.
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There are many luxury resorts and hotels to choose from
The Big Island of Hawaii offers a diverse range of luxury resorts and hotels for honeymooners seeking a mix of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation. Here are some notable options:
Four Seasons:
The Four Seasons is an incredible choice for honeymooners seeking luxury and privacy. This oceanfront property offers private villas with amenities like terraces and private pools, nestled alongside a soft-sand beach. Surrounded by the lush Hawaiian rainforest, it provides a unique and tranquil experience for couples looking to unplug and connect with nature.
Mauna Kea Resort:
Mauna Kea Resort is a premier, iconic luxury resort on the Big Island. It boasts a timeless and harmonious blend of nature and the spirit of the island. With its well-maintained property and unique architecture, it has become one of the most desired destinations in Hawaii. The resort offers easy access to a calm, crescent-shaped beach, ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and relaxing. The rooms are spacious, with large bathrooms, and patios offering stunning views.
Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort:
Kona Village is a luxurious hideaway on the idyllic Kona Coast. Located along the sacred shores of Kahuwai Bay, this resort honours the legacy and stories of native Hawaiians. It offers four outdoor pools with sweeping views of the resort's natural beauty and gracious poolside service. The Asaya Spa provides transformative treatments that blend traditional Hawaiian healing practices with modern facilities. Kona Village is committed to sustainability and offers a unique cultural experience with its deep roots in Hawaiian history and culinary influences.
Waikiki Beach on Oahu:
For honeymooners seeking a blend of cosmopolitan living and beach culture, Waikiki Beach on Oahu is a desirable choice. Oahu offers a mix of big-city attractions, including the state capital of Honolulu, along with renowned beaches, restaurants, shops, and hikes. Waikiki Beach is known for its magnificent stretch of sand, providing a luxurious and thrilling honeymoon experience.
Maui:
Maui is renowned for its untouched, pristine beaches and a broad range of worthy resorts. It is one of the most coveted honeymoon islands in the world, offering the ultimate in beach luxury.
With these options and more, Hawaii's Big Island presents a variety of luxury accommodations to create unforgettable honeymoon experiences.
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The weather is mild year-round, with slightly less rainfall between March and November
The Big Island of Hawaii has a mild climate all year round, with slightly less rainfall between March and November. The daytime temperature averages between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, with night-time temperatures about 10 degrees lower. The western side of the island, known as the leeward side, tends to be sunnier and drier than the eastern side. Downtown Hilo, on the eastern side, averages around 142 inches of rain per year. The best time to visit the Big Island for fewer crowds is in September and October, after the schools have resumed. For great whale-watching opportunities, plan your trip for between December and April.
The Big Island offers breathtaking scenery, incredible natural attractions, a thriving local food scene, and world-renowned accommodations. It is the largest and most diverse of the Hawaiian Islands, with snow-capped mountains, tropical rainforests, lava fields, deserts, green meadows, and secluded beaches. The always-erupting volcano of Kilauea continuously changes the shape of the island.
For luxury accommodations on the Big Island, the Four Seasons offers oceanfront villas with terraces and private pools. A unique lodge-type resort with private cottages in the Hawaiian rainforest is also an option for honeymooners. Upscale resorts with private beaches can be found across the island.
The Big Island has two main airports: Kona Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA) on the western side and Hilo International Airport (ITO) on the eastern side. Most travellers arrive in Hawaii via Honolulu, which is a 45-minute flight from Kailua-Kona Airport.
When packing for your trip, remember to bring swimsuits, sandals, sneakers, layers for hiking, and comfortable, breathable clothing. A sweater or light jacket may also come in handy. Don't forget to pack reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral reefs from bleaching and other damage.
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$32.79
There are two airports on the island, with the western side being sunnier and drier
The Big Island of Hawaii is a great destination for honeymooners, offering a diverse range of activities and attractions. The island is known for its beauty, with volcanic ash-created black-sand beaches, stunning landscapes, and diverse wildlife. It is larger than all of Hawaii's other islands combined, so there is plenty to explore.
When planning a trip to the Big Island, it is important to note that there are two airports to choose from: Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA) and Hilo International Airport. The Kona Airport is located on the western side of the island, which is known for its drier and sunnier weather. The western side, including Kona, experiences lower rainfall due to the loss of moisture in the tradewinds after reaching the southern and western coastlines. This results in a more arid climate. The Kona side is also more popular with visitors, offering a wide range of activities and convenient access to nearby attractions.
On the other hand, the Hilo side, located on the eastern shore, receives more rainfall and has a more tropical feel. Hilo is considered the wettest city in the United States. However, this rainfall keeps the area lush and green, with flowing waterfalls and freshwater pools. The east side is perfect for those who want to experience the old Hawai'i and enjoy hiking in the rainforests and exploring the waterfalls.
To make the most of your time on the Big Island, locals recommend flying into one airport and departing from the other. This way, you can explore more of the island's diverse landscapes and attractions, such as the famous Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which is a must-see for any visitor. The drive between Kona and Hilo takes around 2 hours and 40 minutes, so it may be worth breaking up the journey by stopping at various attractions along the way.
Whether you prefer sunny beaches or tropical rainforests, the Big Island has something for everyone. The best time to visit is typically considered to be April, May, August, September, and October, with milder weather and slightly less rainfall. Don't forget to pack reef-safe sunscreen to protect the fragile coral reefs and bring along comfortable clothing and shoes for exploring the island's diverse environments.
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There is a wide range of activities, from hiking to snorkelling
The Big Island of Hawaii offers a wide range of activities for honeymooners, from hiking and snorkelling to exploring the local culture. The island is known for its stunning landscapes, including black-sand beaches, volcanoes, and lush rainforests.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the island offers numerous hiking trails, ranging from leisurely strolls in Waimea Valley to more challenging treks through lava fields and rainforests. The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a highlight, with its unique black-sand beaches and active volcanoes. The park offers the opportunity to spot sea turtles and learn about the volcanic activity that shaped the island.
The crystal-clear waters off the coast of the island are ideal for underwater exploration. Honeymooners can go snorkelling or diving to observe sea turtles, dolphins, and tropical fish. The island's marine life is diverse, and its waters are a haven for marine animals, including turtles and rays.
The Big Island also offers a variety of land-based activities. Visitors can explore coffee farms and sample the famous Kona coffee, known for its quality and flavour. The island has a range of climates and ecosystems, including 13 climate zones, making it a fascinating place to discover. From the western Kona side, known for its beaches and resorts, to the eastern Hilo side, which offers lush landscapes and hiking trails, there is much to explore.
For a unique and luxurious honeymoon experience, the Four Seasons on the Big Island is an excellent choice. This oceanfront property offers private villas with terraces and pools, surrounded by the stunning Hawaiian rainforest. The island also boasts world-class resorts, remote overlooks, waterfalls, and museums, ensuring that honeymooners can enjoy a mix of relaxation and exploration during their stay.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, the Big Island is considered safe for honeymooners. However, couples should always be aware of safety at any given location.
The Big Island offers a diverse mix of landscapes, from snow-capped mountains to rainforests, secluded beaches, and lava fields. There are also historic villages, scenic waterfalls, and an active volcano to explore.
The Big Island is a year-round destination. For fewer crowds, September and October are ideal. For great whale-watching opportunities, visit between December and April.
The Big Island is known for its amazing local food scene, including fresh seafood and tropical fruits. There are also many restaurants offering a variety of cuisines in the busier areas.
The island offers a range of accommodations, from luxury resorts like the Four Seasons to private cottages in the rainforest. There are also world-renowned hotels, bungalows, and apartments available.
