Trip Planning
When to go, where to stay, how many days, what to pack.
The Best Time of Year to Visit Kona, Hawaiʻi: A Guide
While Kona is beautiful year-round, timing your visit can make a big difference. We break down the seasons to help you find the perfect time for sun, snorkeling, and savings.
Hilo Airport vs. Kona Airport: Which to Choose for Hawaiʻi Island
Choosing the right airport for your Big Island vacation is the first and most crucial step in your planning. We break down the key differences between flying into sunny Kona (KOA) versus lush Hilo (ITO).
Essential Tips for Kona International Airport (KOA)
Flying into Kona's unique open-air airport? Our on-the-ground guide covers everything from navigating the tarmac and grabbing your rental car to finding a pre-flight mai tai.
The Big Island Airport Guide: Flying into Kona (KOA) vs. Hilo (ITO)
The Big Island has two main airports: Kona (KOA) on the west and Hilo (ITO) on the east. Choosing the right one is the first step in planning a seamless Hawaiʻi Island vacation.
A Traveler's Guide to Finding and Using a Big Island Hawaiʻi Map
Get your bearings on the biggest Hawaiian island. This guide breaks down the essential maps you'll need for driving, hiking, and exploring from Kona to Hilo.
Where to Stay in Hilo: A Guide to the Best Hotels & Areas
Finding the right place to stay in Hilo sets the tone for your East Hawaiʻi adventure. From historic downtown hotels to lush rainforest B&Bs, here's our guide to the best accommodations.
Where to Stay in Kona, Hawaiʻi: A Guide to the Best Areas
Deciding where to stay on the vast Kona coast can shape your entire vacation. We break down the key areas, from bustling Kailua Village to the serene resorts of the Kohala Coast, helping you choose the perfect home base.
A Down-to-Earth Helicopter Tour Big Island Guide
Nothing reveals the raw, elemental power of the Big Island quite like seeing it from the air. This guide covers everything you need to know before booking a helicopter tour.
Big Island vs. Kauaʻi: Which Island for a First-Time Visit?
Deciding between the Big Island's volcanic landscapes and Kauaʻi's lush, green paradise for your first visit? We break down the differences in scenery, activities, and vibe to help you choose the right island for your dream trip.
Big Island vs. Maui: Which Hawaiian Island Is Better for You?
Can't decide between the adventurous, diverse landscapes of the Big Island and the postcard-perfect beaches of Maui? We break down the key differences to help you choose the right island.
Luxury Big Island Day Tours: What You Actually Get for Your Money
Wondering if a luxury Big Island tour is worth the price? We break down the exclusive experiences, expert guidance, and unparalleled comfort you can expect when you opt for a premium, private adventure.
How Many Days Do You Need on the Big Island? A Practical Guide
Deciding how long to stay on the Big Island can be tricky. We recommend at least 8-10 days to truly experience both sides of the island without feeling rushed, but here's a breakdown for every type of traveler.
Crafting Your Perfect Big Island Honeymoon Private Tour
A private tour can transform your Big Island honeymoon from a great trip into an unforgettable adventure. We break down the options, from helicopters over Kīlauea to private stargazing on Mauna Kea.
Kona vs. Hilo: Where to Stay on Hawaiʻi's Big Island
This is the classic Big Island dilemma: the sunny, resort-filled Kona side or the lush, jungle-like Hilo side? We break down the differences in weather, activities, and vibe to help you choose your home base.
The Best Private Big Island Tours: How to Choose Yours
A private tour is the most flexible and insightful way to explore the Big Island's vast landscapes. Learn how to choose the right guide and vehicle for an unforgettable, customized adventure.
Your Guide to the Ultimate Big Island Luxury Vacation
From stunning oceanfront resorts to private helicopter tours over an active volcano, a Big Island luxury vacation offers more than just relaxation—it's an adventure in comfort and style.
What to Do in Hilo: A Local's Guide to Waterfalls & Culture
Often overlooked for the sunny Kona coast, Hilo offers a glimpse into old Hawaiʻi, with lush rainforests, powerful waterfalls, and a unique local culture. Discover the best activities and sights on the Big Island's verdant eastern shore.
What to Do in Kona, Hawaiʻi: A Guide to the Sunny Side
Welcome to Kona, the sun-soaked heart of the Big Island's western shore. From world-famous coffee to crystal-clear waters and ancient history, find out what makes this district a must-visit destination.
The Ultimate Guide: 15 Best Things to Do on the Big Island of Hawaiʻi
Hawaiʻi Island is a land of incredible diversity, where you can explore fiery volcanoes, snorkel with manta rays, and hike through lush rainforests all in one trip. Here are our top picks for an unforgettable adventure.
The Best Things to Do in Kona, Hawaiʻi: A Complete Guide
From the sun-drenched coast to the misty uplands, Kona is the vibrant heart of West Hawaiʻi. Explore world-class snorkeling, historic villages, and the famous Kona coffee belt.
A Private Tour on the Big Island: Is It Actually Worth It?
Thinking about a private tour for your Big Island adventure? We weigh the significant benefits of a personalized itinerary against the higher price tag to help you decide.
The Ultimate Big Island Honeymoon Guide for Unforgettable Romance
Dreaming of a honeymoon that blends epic adventure with quiet romance? The Big Island of Hawaiʻi offers an unparalleled backdrop for your first trip as a married couple.
A Day Trip from Maui to the Big Island: A Practical Guide
Thinking of hopping from Maui to the Big Island for the day? It's an ambitious but rewarding adventure, especially for a chance to see Kīlauea's raw power. Here's how to make it happen.
A Day Trip to the Big Island from Oʻahu: A Practical Guide
It's ambitious, expensive, and exhausting, but a day trip from Oʻahu to the Big Island is possible for the determined traveler. Here’s how to decide if it's right for you and how to plan it.
Welcome to Big Island Tours — a daily field guide to Hawaiʻi
A new editorial guide to the Big Island of Hawaiʻi — what we cover, how we work, and why daily writing about this island matters.