The Big Island Travel Guide I Wish I Had

Written By Dominique Spear

🌺 Table of Contents

  • Where We Stayed
    A cozy oceanfront studio with everything we needed

  • What We Did
    Snorkeling, surfing, submarines, and more—our honest reviews

  • What We Ate
    From fancy Four Seasons sushi to nostalgic local faves

  • What We Bought
    Little purchases that made a big difference

  • My Advice to You Helpful

    Tips, honest mistakes, and what I’d do differently

Heads up! Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you. Thank you so much for supporting the blog!

Aloha and Welcome!

Hey there! I’m Dominique, but pretty much everyone calls me Niqui (pronounced Ni kki). I’m one of those people who loves jumping into a trip with zero research and figuring it all out along the way. Should I probably plan a little more before spending the time, money, and energy? Absolutely. Do I actually do that? Not really. But hey, that’s half the fun, right?

If you’re planning a trip and somehow stumble across my little corner of the internet, I hope you find something helpful or at least entertaining. I share my travel stories not because I have all the answers, but because I’ve made enough mistakes (and had enough great moments) that you just might learn something from them.

If you’re dreaming of the Big Island but have no idea where to start, you’re in the right place. My fiancé and I went without a solid plan and left with some of the best memories of our lives. From spontaneous snorkeling to the sweetest surprise proposal, I’m sharing everything we did, loved, and learned so you can get inspired (and maybe steal a few ideas) for your own Hawaiian getaway. Whether you walk away thinking “That sounds like a must-do!” or “Wait, I didn’t know that either—good to know!” I’m just happy you're here.

Thank you so much for reading. Mahalo for the support and I hope you enjoy the journey! 💛

Here’s a little rundown of the places we explored on our trip! Honestly, before we even landed, my fiance and I had zero set plans. We basically said things like, “That looks like fun, let’s do it!” or “This feels like the perfect Hawaii vibe, we have to try it.”

We treated ourselves to some incredible guided experiences like snorkeling with manta rays, taking surf lessons, and even hopping on a submarine tour (yes, it was as cool as it sounds). On the days we didn’t have anything booked, we just roamed and discovered hidden gems around the island.

At some point, I started wondering what it would look like if I actually wrote down all the places we visited, and that’s what you’re looking at now! The photo above? Yep, it’s exactly what it looks like: a snapshot of our spontaneous, joy-filled adventure.

How long did we stay?

7 days on the Big Island!

I know the big question is always, “Is that too long or too short?” Honestly, it depends on your pace and priorities. Some people think three days is plenty, while others could stay for weeks.

My travel style? Somewhere between chill and hyper-organized. I love going with the flow once I’m there, but before I leave, I’m the queen of checklists and color-coded itineraries. I’m also a certified over-packer.

Our pace? Loose but intentional. We had a few big activities booked and let the rest unfold naturally.

Our budget? Thoughtful but flexible. We like a good splurge, but only if it feels worth the memory. We don’t need luxury every night, just experiences that hit.

This trip gave us space to breathe, connect, and be one with the island. It reminded me how good it feels to unplug, touch sand, swim in the ocean, and forget the rest of the world for a little while.

Where did we stay?

We booked everything through Expedia and stayed at an Airbnb called Kona Magic Sands Oceanfront Studio. We’re pretty simple when it comes to accommodations. As long as it has what we need and feels comfortable, we’re happy, and this place definitely delivered.

It had a full kitchen, a bathroom, a small living room, a dining table, air conditioning, a pool, and an ocean view. One of our favorite parts was the beach gear they provided. We were able to use their snorkeling equipment, beach mats, towels, chairs, and even sandcastle tools. The beach was just steps outside the condo, which made everything super convenient.

Getting into the unit was a little confusing at first, but we figured it out. The air conditioning stopped working one day, but we called the owner and she was so kind and quick to help. She even checked in on us during our last few days to make sure everything was okay, which we really appreciated.

Arthur’s big surprise?!

Long story short, I am engaged! It was one of the most beautiful moments of my life. I had absolutely no idea he was going to propose! No one spilled the tea. No hints, no slip-ups, no weird energy that would have made me even slightly suspicious.

The photo above was taken at a place on the Big Island called Waipiʻo Valley. Arthur had mentioned wanting to get there before sunset, but I didn’t think much of it because honestly, he’s always like that when we travel. He likes to catch the good light. There was only one other couple there when we arrived, and the view was unreal. As the sun began to set, the way the light hit the mountains and the water created the most peaceful contrast.

The lookout was stunning! There were butterflies floating around and three or four cats playing in the tall grass nearby. It felt like something out of a dream. Arthur set up his phone and then started speaking. His voice was shaking a little.

When I was a little girl, I used to imagine that I would jump up and down or scream when the love of my life proposed. But in that moment, when Arthur got down on one knee, I just cried. It was such a pure, overwhelming kind of joy that I could not hold back the tears. All I wanted to do was hug him!

It was perfect. Every single detail. And I truly could not have asked for a more beautiful proposal!

Activities We Did and What We Rate Them!

If you're curious about the companies we booked through, feel free to reach out! I’m happy to share.

  1. Snorkeling with Manta Rays — 1000000 out of 10

This was one of the most incredible experiences ever! You actually get to swim with these beautiful, gentle creatures. Arthur and I loved it so much that we tell everyone heading to Kona to put this on their list.

I don’t want to give too much away because it’s truly something you have to see and feel for yourself, but here’s a quick idea of what to expect. You’ll take a short boat ride out to a prime viewing spot where the manta rays gather at night. The tour is respectful of the animals and their environment. No one touches them or disturbs them. In fact, your presence helps because the light attracts plankton, which the manta rays love to eat.

They provide wetsuits and complimentary snacks on the boat. It does get chilly out there, so here’s our pro tip: bring two towels. One for drying off and one for staying warm during the ride back.

The tour company offered GoPro rentals, but we brought our own waterproof floating phone pouch from Amazon instead. It worked great and saved us money. The one we got was under $15 and totally worth it!

Link: https://amzn.to/42ZscaX

2. Surfing Lessons — 9 out of 10

Ya know… the older you get, the more you realize that some physical activities are definitely for people who are in shape. Surfing is one of those things. But even if you’re not a pro athlete, it’s still such a fun experience!

We booked our lesson through Kahaluʻu Bay Surf and Sea, a classic Kona surf school located right across the street from the bay in historic Kahaluu (which has been a royal canoe landing and surfing spot for centuries) Their instructors are all certified in CPR, first aid, and lifeguarding, and the small class sizes mean you’ll get tons of personal attention whether you choose group, semi‑private, or private lessons.

The lessons are two hours long and packed with fun. You’ll start on land with safety tips and practice your pop-up technique, then head into the water on soft-top longboards. The guides stay right beside you to help with timing and balance, and yes, they’ll give you that little push to catch your first wave.

They even provided wet shoes which were a total game changer. They keep your feet protected from reefs and help with stability on the board.

One of the best parts was how encouraging everyone was. Reviews say instructors “were incredibly nice, welcoming, patient and very knowledgeable” so we felt safe, supported, and excited for every wave.

Most importantly, wear sunscreen. Arthur didn’t, and let's just say he learned the hard way. And please make sure it’s reef safe. I made the mistake of bringing a regular brand and ended up buying one on the island.

Let’s all be kind to the planet and the animals we share it with!

3. Submarine Tour — 10 out of 10

This was such a cool experience! You start with a quick boat ride out to the submarine, and from there the real adventure begins. Our tour guide was hilarious and made the whole thing even more enjoyable. We got to see underwater sights I never imagined I’d witness up close and learned so much about the ocean too.

It’s super family friendly, so if you’re traveling with kids or just want something more relaxed, this is perfect. Once you climb down the ladder into the submarine, you just sit back and enjoy the view.

The only thing I wish I had brought with me was my Stanley water bottle. Hawaii can be hot, but that bottle keeps your water icy cold all day long.

Here’s the one I use and love: https://amzn.to/3ZBPgtk

The Food We Recommend to Eat!

  1. Ulu Ocean Grill [$$$$]

Funny story: we stumbled upon this place entirely by accident on our way back from Volcanoes National Park. We were craving sushi and didn’t even check the $$$$ rating on Google—rookie move.

The entrance looked fancy. We had to go through a gated driveway just to reach the parking lot. As it turned out, Ulu Ocean Grill is inside a Four Seasons Resort Hualālai, where suites run around $2,000 a night. From the moment we stepped in, the staff treated us like royalty even if we felt a bit out of place.

What made this spot so magical was the setting right on the ocean with sweeping views, handcrafted cocktails and a focus on sourcing over 160 local farms and fishermen for fresh, sustainable ingredients.

We kept hearing about dishes like the Charred Hawaiian Hapu (seabass) and the Spicy Hualālai sushi roll, both receive consistent praise for their flavor and presentation. Our meal felt upscale yet inviting. The staff’s warmth and attention to detail really made our night special.

2. HiCO Hawaiian Coffee [$$]

I’m not usually a huge coffee person but the Ube Coffee at HiCO Hawaiian Coffee had me hooked! It’s a laid-back cafe with locations in Kailua‑Kona, Kealakekua and Waikōloa Village. They serve 100 percent Hawaiʻi‐grown beans with flavor notes like dark chocolate, molasses and toasted almond, smooth yet bold, perfectly capturing the Kona terroir.

Their menu also includes acai bowls, breakfast toasts, and island‑style snacks, plus local beers and cocktails for a more relaxed vibe. Arthur even picked up a quality t‑shirt from their apparel line that still gets compliments when worn at home.

We loved it so much we visited twice in one day! The café’s creative and community-driven atmosphere is welcoming, plus their coffees are roasted right in Hawaiʻi, paying homage to local farmers and growers.

3. Shaved Ice [$]

Did you know that shave ice actually has roots in Hawaii’s plantation history? When Japanese immigrants came to work in the sugarcane fields, they used hand tools to shave down large blocks of ice to help beat the heat. They’d drizzle it with sugar or add fruit for a little extra flavor.

Fast forward to today, and shave ice has become a beloved Hawaiian treat with endless toppings. You can add scoops of ice cream, chunks of fresh fruit, a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk, or even candy. It’s the perfect way to cool down on a hot island day.

You have to try it while you’re here! It’s not just dessert, it’s a little piece of local history in a cup!

4. Zippy’s [$$]

This right here is my childhood in a bowl. I will only eat chili from Zippy’s, nothing else compares!

Just like how the West Coast has In-N-Out and Raising Cane’s, Hawaii has Zippy’s. It’s a beloved local food chain that’s been serving comfort food since 1966. From classic plate lunches to their famous chili and saimin, there’s something for everyone.

It’s a casual sit-down spot, so take your time, get comfy, and enjoy a true local experience. If you want to eat like a real kamaʻāina (local), Zippy’s is a must!

5. Spam Musubi [$]

This is a true Hawaiian staple and a must-try snack! It’s made of grilled Spam on top of a block of rice, wrapped together with nori (seaweed). Sounds simple, but it’s delicious and super satisfying. We found them everywhere—from convenience stores to local markets—and every version was slightly different. Pro tip: grab one before a beach day or hike.

6. Manapua [$]

Manapua is the Hawaiian version of the Chinese char siu bao. It’s a fluffy steamed (or sometimes baked) bun filled with sweet BBQ pork. You can also find versions stuffed with chicken, curry, or even purple sweet potato. These are super popular on the go and can be found in bakeries and even gas stations!

7. Kalua Pig [$]

Kalua pig is smoky, tender, and full of flavor. Traditionally cooked in an underground oven called an imu, it’s often served at luaus with cabbage and rice. We had it as part of a plate lunch, and it was melt-in-your-mouth good. Definitely one of those “I need to learn how to make this at home” meals.

8. Pork Hash [$]

Think of pork hash as Hawaii’s take on dim sum-style dumplings. They’re steamed, bite-sized, and usually filled with a savory mix of pork and sometimes shrimp. These little guys are perfect for breakfast or a quick snack. We picked some up from a local shop and they were the perfect salty, juicy bite.

Things I Bought That Made My Trip So Much Easier

I’m all about making travel feel smooth and stress-free, and these are a few of the little things that made a big difference on my trip. If you're the kind of traveler who loves to be prepared (but still wants to have fun and go with the flow), these items are for you!

Heads up: I do earn a small commission if you purchase through these affiliate links, and I truly appreciate the support!

My Advice to You

Now that you’ve read all about what we did, here’s some advice I wish someone had told me:

  1. Book major activities early, especially if you're going during peak season. Spots fill up fast and it’s better to have the important stuff locked in so you can relax.

  2. Reef-safe sunscreen is not optional—it’s respectful, it’s better for your skin, and it’s the law in Hawaii. Just pack it ahead of time.

  3. Don’t over-schedule. Some of our favorite memories came from wandering without a plan. Leave space to be spontaneous.

  4. Pack a light rain jacket. Even if the weather looks perfect. Hawaii’s microclimates can surprise you.

  5. Respect the land and the locals. This island is home to an incredibly rich culture and ecosystem. Learn a little before you go, listen while you’re there, and leave every place better than you found it.

  6. Hydrate! And not just with mai tais. The sun is strong, and you’ll be exploring a lot. Water is your best friend.

  7. If you’re renting a car, try to get one with some clearance. Some of the best beaches and hikes are down bumpy, unpaved roads.

  8. Make time to watch a sunset every single day. Even if it’s just from your hotel balcony. Hawaii’s sunsets are unreal and totally worth pausing for.

This is your trip. Don’t feel pressure to do it all. Do what makes your soul light up.

Want Help Planning?

Thank you so much for reading my blog! If you’re thinking about visiting the Big Island or want help booking anything I mentioned, I’d love to help.

I’m happy to plan, organize, and do all the behind-the-scenes work so you don’t have to.

Until next trip—Aloha 🌺

Dominique Spear
Previous

Antelope Canyon: Tips, Time Zones, and What No One Tells You