Ultimate 2.5-Day Big Island Adventure: Exploring Hilo and Kona Highlights

Day 1: Hilo Exploration

Hilo, HI on May 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Ken's House of Pancakes

Start your day with hearty Hawaiian-style pancakes and local breakfast favorites at this well-loved Hilo diner.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Visit Liliuokalani Gardens

A peaceful Japanese-style garden perfect for a morning stroll amidst beautiful ponds, bridges, and tropical flora.
Free, 1h

10:45am

Hilo Farmers Market

Explore local vendors selling fresh tropical fruits, handmade crafts, and unique souvenirs; ideal for light snacks or gifts.
Variable, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Café Pesto

Enjoy fresh seafood and farm-to-table dishes with an emphasis on local ingredients in a lively atmosphere downtown Hilo.
USD25, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Hilo Bay and Coconut Island

Take a relaxing walk along the bayfront and over the footbridge to Coconut Island, with excellent views and photo opportunities.
Free, 1h

3:00pm

Imiloa Astronomy Center

Discover Hawaiian culture and astronomy through interactive exhibits and planetarium shows (check show times for planetarium).
USD25, 1h30m

5:00pm

Dinner at Hilo Bay Café

Dine on innovative Pacific Rim cuisine with waterfront views, perfect for winding down your first day in Hilo.
USD40, 1h30m
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Day 2: Volcanoes National Park

Volcano, HI on May 22, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Moon and Turtle

Enjoy artisanal pastries, creative breakfast dishes, and excellent coffee in downtown Hilo before heading out.
USD20, 1h

8:45am

Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park

Explore steaming craters, lava tubes, and Kīlauea’s volcanic landscapes; the visitor center opens at 9:00 AM and is a great starting point.
USD30 per vehicle, 4h

12:30pm

Lunch at Volcano House Restaurant

Dine with stunning views of the Kīlauea caldera inside the park, featuring Hawaiian-inspired dishes.
USD35, 1h

2:00pm

Akaka Falls State Park

Take a short but scenic hike to view the spectacular 442-foot Akaka Falls surrounded by tropical rainforest.
USD5 per vehicle, 1h

3:30pm

Visit Rainbow Falls

Located near Hilo, this easily accessible waterfall is famous for its beautiful rainbow effects in the morning light.
Free, 30m

5:00pm

Dinner at Pineapples Island Fresh Cuisine

Casual spot in Hilo serving fresh, locally sourced seafood and island flavors, perfect for a relaxed evening meal.
USD30, 1h
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Day 3: Kona Sights & Departure

Kona, HI on May 23, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Hilo Bay Café

Grab a quick but delicious breakfast here before your drive to Kona, opening early to accommodate travelers.
USD20, 45m

8:00am

Drive from Hilo to Kona

The approximately 1.5 to 2-hour scenic drive west, allowing you to take in beautiful coastlines and landscapes en route.
Fuel cost approx USD20, 2h

10:00am

Coffee Farm Tour near Kona

Visit a local Kona coffee farm to learn about the coffee-making process and taste some of the world’s best coffee.
USD15, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Umekes Fishmarket Bar & Grill

Enjoy fresh poke bowls and island seafood favorites in a casual setting, highly recommended near downtown Kona.
USD25, 1h

1:30pm

Kona Airport Departure

Head to Kona International Airport to return your rental car and prepare for your afternoon flight home.
Variable, ---
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