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Areas in Big Island

Kohala & North Island

The Big Island's north end is a long drive from anywhere, but it can be a memorable adventure. Known as the gateway to the Pololu Valley, Kohala is also home to many diverse beach parks and historical sites. The towns of Hawi and Kapaau give visitors options for recharging on a trip up north.

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Kona & West Island

The city of Kailua-Kona and the resorts of Mauna Kea, Mauna Lani, and Waikoloa are all located in the western part of the Big Island. This sunny region with world-class beaches is where most vacationers stay when visiting the Big Island.

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Kau & South Island

The southern part of the Big Island has remote beaches plus an amazing black sand beach and a rare green sand beach. This district known as Ka'u is wild and wonderful at the same time.

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Hilo & East Island

The eastern side of the Big Island around the city of Hilo is covered in lush rainforest. It's not known for sandy beaches, but the coastal parks and waterfalls are gorgeous destinations.

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Nearby Hotels

Nearby Attractions

About Big Island

The Big Island is the largest and most diverse of the Hawaiian Islands. On this island you'll find tropical rainforest in the hills around Hilo, dry desert-like regions in the Kona District, and even snow-capped summits on two massive peaks that are nearly 14,000 feet tall (yes you can visit these summits!). It's also home to Kilauea, one of the most active volcanoes on the planet, which you can see up close at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The Big Island is larger than all of the other islands combined so having a rental car is important if you want to explore beyond your home base (and you should!). The island has many miles of trails for hiking, rugged roads leading to remote beaches, countless historical sites, amazing snorkeling reefs, beaches of various colors (including green), and so many picturesque waterfalls. It's a wonderland for photographers and adventurers.