Adventure-Packed 5-Day Big Island Itinerary

  1. Day 1: Hiking at Akaka Falls State Park
    35 minutes (16.3 miles) from Hilo International Airport

    Akaka Falls State Park provides a stunning rainforest hike among lush vegetation and beautiful waterfalls. The main trail is an easy hike that takes you to the 442-foot Akaka Falls and the 100-foot Kahuna Falls.

  2. Day 2: Ziplining at Umauma Falls Zipline Experience
    25 minutes (12.5 miles) from Akaka Falls State Park

    Take a thrilling zipline adventure above the Umauma River, waterfalls, and lush greenery. Experienced guides lead you through a series of 9 ziplines, suspension bridges, and a rappelling tour. Make sure to bring your GoPro for postcard-worthy photos.

  3. Day 3: Exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
    1 hour 35 minutes (44 miles) from Umauma Falls Zipline Experience

    Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a must-visit destination for adventure seekers. Hike along the Kīlauea Iki Trail that traverses the floor of a 1959 eruption. Witness the Kilauea Volcano active summit eruption at the Jaggar Museum.

  4. Day 4: Snorkeling and Beach Time at Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area
    1 hour 20 minutes (45 miles) from Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

    Experience clear blue waters and protected sandy beaches at Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area. This spot is perfect to snorkel, swim or relax. Snorkel with a variety of fish and even spot green sea turtles at this splendid beach.

  5. Day 5: Sunset and Stargazing at Mauna Kea
    55 minutes (36 miles) from Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area

    Mauna Kea is a volcano renowned by its height and unique geography. Watch the sunset over the clouds of Mauna Kea and then experience a stargazing tour from the visitor’s center. You’ll be mesmerized by the star-filled skies away from the light pollution of the Big Island.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Akaka Falls State Park (2 hours, free)
  • Umauma Falls Zipline Experience (2 hours, $159 per person)
  • Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (4 hours, $30 per vehicle)
  • Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area (3 hours, free)
  • Mauna Kea Stargazing Tour (4 hours, $220 per person)
  • Total Estimated Costs ($409 per person)

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the Waipio Valley for a stunning waterfall hike, snorkeling with manta rays, and paddleboarding. On the other hand, if you have less time, you can skip exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

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