4-Day Adventure Itinerary for Hawaii's Big Island

Day 1: West Coast Exploration

Kailua-Kona, Hawaii on June 24, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Island Lava Java

Enjoy locally brewed coffee paired with fresh island-style breakfast dishes in a bright, oceanfront setting. Open from 6:30am to 2pm, perfect to start your day.
USD15, 1h0m

9:45am

Visit Huliheʻe Palace

Explore this historic Hawaiian royal vacation home filled with artifacts that showcase the island’s rich history. It’s open from 9am to 4:30pm.
USD15, 1h15m

11:15am

Snorkeling at Kahalu’u Beach Park

Known for calm waters and abundant marine life, this spot offers an easy snorkeling experience with colorful fish and sea turtles. Open all day; gear rental available nearby.
USD20 (gear rental), 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Kona Brewing Company

Sample locally brewed beers alongside fresh, creative pizzas and salads in a laid-back atmosphere. Open 11am to 9pm.
USD25, 1h0m

3:00pm

Coffee Farm Tour at Greenwell Farms

Take a guided tour of one of the island’s premium coffee estates, learn about coffee cultivation, and enjoy fresh samples. Tours run from 9am to 3pm, reserve ahead.
USD20, 1h0m

5:00pm

Relax at Kailua Pier and Sunset Watching

Stroll along the pier, watch the boats, and enjoy a spectacular Hawaiian sunset over the ocean.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Jackie Rey’s Ohana Grill

Savor fresh seafood and Hawaiian inspired dishes in a cozy and vibrant setting, open until 9pm.
USD35, 1h30m
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Day 2: East Coast Wonders

Hilo, Hawaii on June 25, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Ken’s House of Pancakes

Enjoy all-day breakfast including classic pancakes and tropical fruit plates. Open 6am to midnight.
USD12, 1h0m

9:00am

Rainbow Falls State Park

Visit this picturesque waterfall known for rainbows appearing in the mist; open all day and ideal for a morning stroll.
Free, 1h0m

10:30am

Explore Liliuokalani Gardens

Relax in this beautiful Japanese garden with ponds and traditional bridges, open daily during daylight hours.
Free, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Cafe Pesto Hilo Bay

Enjoy creative island-inspired cuisine with fresh seafood and artisan cocktails, open 11am to 9pm.
USD28, 1h0m

1:30pm

Imiloa Astronomy Center

Discover Hawaiian culture and astronomy through interactive exhibits and a planetarium. Open 9am to 5pm.
USD15, 1h30m

3:30pm

Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Visitor Center

Learn about local macadamia nut farming and sample various nut treats. Open 8am to 5pm.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Walk along Hilo Bayfront

Enjoy the scenic waterfront with plenty of photo opportunities and local vendors.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Hilo Bay Cafe

Try fusion cuisine with contemporary Hawaiian flavors, open until 9pm.
USD35, 1h30m
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Day 3: Volcano Adventure

Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii on June 26, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Volcano House

Start your day with breakfast overlooking volcanic landscapes inside the park, open 7am to 11am.
USD20, 1h0m

8:15am

Explore Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park

Visit Kilauea Visitor Center, hike the Sulphur Banks Trail and see volcanic craters. Park open 24/7; visitor center 8am to 5pm.
USD30 per vehicle, 4h30m

12:45pm

Lunch at Volcano Village Bakery & Cafe

Grab sandwiches, fresh baked goods, and coffee at this local hotspot just outside the park. Open 7am to 3pm.
USD15, 1h0m

2:00pm

Thurston Lava Tube

Walk through the captivating lava tube surrounded by tropical forest; open 24/7.
Included in park entry, 1h0m

3:30pm

Drive Chain of Craters Road

A scenic drive through volcanic landscapes with stops at lava flows, craters, and sea cliffs.
Included in park entry, 2h0m

6:00pm

Sunset and Night Lava Viewing

View active lava glow at the designated viewpoints within the park after sunset. Check current conditions at visitor center.
Included in park entry, 2h0m

8:30pm

Dinner at Kilauea Lodge

Cozy restaurant serving hearty meals made with local ingredients near the park entrance, open until 9pm.
USD30, 1h0m
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Day 4: North Big Island Loop

Waimea and Surroundings, Hawaii on June 27, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Waimea Coffee Company

Enjoy great coffee alongside breakfast bowls and pastries in the laid-back town atmosphere, open 7am to 12pm.
USD12, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Parker Ranch

Tour one of the largest cattle ranches in the U.S. and learn about paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) culture. Tours by appointment.
USD15, 1h30m

11:00am

Pololu Valley Lookout

Drive north to this stunning lookout offering breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and a trail down to a black sand beach.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Kohala Burger & Taco

Casual spot serving fresh burgers and fish tacos, perfect for a quick and tasty meal. Open until 3pm.
USD18, 1h0m

2:30pm

Walk in Waipi'o Valley (optional guided tour)

Experience the dramatic valley landscapes with steep cliffs and waterfalls; guided tours preferable for safety. Check availability and times.
USD50 (guided), 2h0m

5:00pm

Return to Kailua-Kona

Drive back to Kailua-Kona for your final evening on the island.
Free, 1h30m

7:30pm

Farewell Dinner at Merriman's Kona

Enjoy farm-to-table Hawaiian cuisine with ocean views, known for fresh seafood and local ingredients. Reservations recommended; open until 9pm.
USD50, 1h30m
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