Family-Friendly 5-Day Itinerary in Hawaii Big Island
Wednesday, October 18: Exploring Kona Coast
Begin your trip by immersing yourself in the scenic beauty of the Kona Coast. In the morning, visit the Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park, where you can explore ancient Hawaiian fishponds and petroglyphs. Afterward, head to Magic Sands Beach Park for a relaxing afternoon of swimming and sunbathing. As the evening sets in, visit the Kailua-Kona Pier, known for its energetic atmosphere and vibrant nightlife.
Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park: Free, 2-3 hours
Magic Sands Beach Park: Free, 2-4 hours
Kailua-Kona Pier: Free, evening
Restaurants
Menehune Coffee: Enjoy a delicious and energizing breakfast at Menehune Coffee, located near the Kona Coast. This cozy coffee shop offers a variety of freshly brewed coffees and tasty pastries. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Kona Canoe Club: For a satisfying lunch, head over to Kona Canoe Club. This beachfront restaurant serves up delicious Hawaiian cuisine, including fresh seafood and mouthwatering burgers. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Huggo's: Indulge in a delightful dinner at Huggo's, an iconic oceanfront restaurant in Kailua-Kona. Offering a menu of delectable seafood dishes and tender steaks, Huggo's provides a memorable dining experience. Average cost for a meal is about $40 per person.
Thursday, October 19: Volcanoes National Park
Spend the day exploring the awe-inspiring Volcanoes National Park. Start your morning with a visit to the Thurston Lava Tube, a unique underground tunnel formed by lava. Next, hike along the Kilauea Iki Trail, offering breathtaking views of volcanic landscapes. In the afternoon, witness the powerful Halema'uma'u Crater, and if conditions permit, take a guided tour through the active lava flows. Wrap up the day with stargazing at the Jaggar Museum, known for its exceptional night sky views.
Thurston Lava Tube: Free, 1-2 hours
Kilauea Iki Trail: Free, 2-3 hours
Halema'uma'u Crater: Free, 1-2 hours
Jaggar Museum: Free, evening
Restaurants
Sweet Cane Cafe: Enjoy a healthy and delicious breakfast at Sweet Cane Cafe, offering a variety of vegan and vegetarian options. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
Volcano House: Grab a quick and satisfying lunch at Volcano House, located right within the Volcanoes National Park and offering stunning views of the Halema'uma'u Crater. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Lava Lava Beach Club: Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at Lava Lava Beach Club, a waterfront restaurant serving fresh seafood and mouthwatering Hawaiian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $35 per person.
Friday, October 20: Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area
Enjoy a day of sun, sand, and relaxation at the beautiful Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area. Spend the morning swimming in the crystal-clear waters, snorkeling amidst vibrant marine life, or simply soaking up the sun on the golden sandy beach. In the afternoon, have a picnic lunch and explore the nearby coastal trails for stunning ocean views. Don't miss the chance to catch a magical sunset over the Pacific Ocean before heading back to your accommodation.
Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area: Free, 4-6 hours
Restaurants
Menehune Coffee: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Menehune Coffee, located near Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area. This charming cafe offers a variety of breakfast options, including fresh pastries, hearty omelets, and flavorful Hawaiian Kona coffee. The average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
Paradise Grill: For a tasty lunch with a view, head to Paradise Grill. Situated right on the coast, this casual restaurant serves up mouthwatering burgers, refreshing salads, and flavorful seafood dishes. Enjoy your meal while taking in the stunning ocean vistas. The average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Brown's Beach House: Treat yourself to a memorable dinner experience at Brown's Beach House. Located within a short drive from Hapuna Beach, this upscale restaurant offers an extensive menu featuring fresh seafood, grilled meats, and creative Hawaiian-inspired dishes. Enjoy the elegant ambiance and impeccable service. The average cost for a meal is about $50 per person.
Saturday, October 21: Waipi'o Valley and Akaka Falls
Embark on a scenic adventure to the Waipi'o Valley, known as the "Valley of the Kings." Take an early morning guided tour or rent a 4x4 vehicle to explore the lush landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and black sand beaches of this hidden gem. Afterward, head to Akaka Falls State Park, where you can hike through a tropical rainforest and witness the majestic 442-foot Akaka Falls. Wrap up the day by savoring local Hawaiian cuisine at a nearby restaurant.
Waipi'o Valley: Guided tour or 4x4 rental cost varies, 4-6 hours
Akaka Falls State Park: $5 parking fee, 2-3 hours
Sunday, October 22: Mauna Kea Summit and Beach Time
Start your day with an unforgettable sunrise experience at the summit of Mauna Kea, one of the world's best stargazing sites. Make sure to check the accessibility and weather conditions before planning your visit. Afterward, head back to lower elevations and spend the afternoon relaxing at one of the stunning beaches on the island, such as Mauna Kea Beach or Hapuna Beach. Enjoy swimming, building sandcastles, or simply unwinding amidst the scenic beauty.
Mauna Kea Summit: Free, early morning
Mauna Kea Beach or Hapuna Beach: Free, 4-6 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Hawaiian Style Cafe, known for their hearty portions of local favorites like loco moco and pancakes. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
For lunch, try Kona Brewing Company, which offers a variety of dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, as well as their famous craft beers. Average cost for a meal is about $15-20 per person.
For dinner, visit Merriman's, a farm-to-table restaurant that offers a menu filled with fresh seafood and locally grown produce. Enjoy breathtaking ocean views while indulging in their delectable dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $40-50 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off the beaten path attractions, take your family to the Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens, the only rainforest zoo in the United States. Kids will love exploring the diverse range of animals and plants in this beautiful setting. Another local favorite is the Mokupāpapa Discovery Center, an interactive museum where you can learn about the unique marine ecosystem of the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. Don't forget to try some authentic Hawaiian shave ice from local food trucks or stands for a refreshing treat!