The Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa
Big Island, Hawaii
- 22-acre oceanfront resort
- Swimming pool with waterslide and kids' section
Big Island holidays
The home of Hawaii’s monarchy - and great coffee – Big Island also boasts the world’s tallest volcano, offering a true ‘back to nature’ experience. Hiking the national park rewards you with enchanting views of glowing lava streams as they slip into the ocean.
Essential information for Big Island
Time Zone
UK - 10hrs
Language
American English
Currency
US Dollar $
Flight information
17h (+1/2 stops) Indirect
Flight schedule
Daily flights to Los Angeles, San Francisco and Seattle. From here, you can then board a connecting flight to Maui.
Do I need a visa?
To travel to the USA, you will need an ESTA visa. Please make sure that you have this approved at least 3 days before you head off on holiday.
Top tip
Fly to L.A, San Francisco or Seattle with Virgin Atlantic, stay a night or two, then catch an onward flight to Hawaii with Hawaiian Airlines.
Hotels in Big Island
Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha's Kona Beach
Big Island, Hawaii
3,938 reviews3.5 stars
- Historic hotel in superb beach location
- Island Breeze Lu’au
- Tennis centre
Hilton Waikoloa Village
Big Island, Hawaii
11,085 reviews4.5 stars
- Set in 62 acres of tropical oceanfront grounds
- Spacious and comfortable rooms
- 3 unique pools with water slides and cabanas, plus a saltwater lagoon
Royal Kona Resort
Big Island, Hawaii
5,565 reviews3 stars
- Prime beachfront location
- Oceanfront swimming pool
- Hawaiian Lu’au
An island you’ve got to see to believe: Highlights of Big Island
From coral reefs to volcano hiking, the naturally spectacular Big Island has all the ingredients for an unforgettable holiday. Here are its best attractions.
Beaches
Things to do
Events and Festivals
Need more travel tips or holiday help?
May to October is the sweet spot—sunny skies, calmer seas, and perfect for snorkelling, hiking, and volcano spotting. Bonus: fewer crowds than winter, and still packed with aloha!
The Big Island has two main airports:
Kona International Airport (KOA) – best for west coast resorts and beaches.
Hilo International Airport (ITO) – ideal for exploring Volcanoes National Park. Most visitors fly into Kona.
Give it at least 5 to 7 days. This island is, well, big! From black sand beaches to fiery volcanoes, there’s a lot of ground (and lava rock!) to cover.
Yes—but you’ll need a rental car. The island is massive and public transport is limited. A car gives you the freedom to chase waterfalls, stargaze at Mauna Kea, and find hidden beaches.
- Visit Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
- Snorkel at Kealakekua Bay
- Explore black sand beaches and lava tubes
- Stargaze from Mauna Kea’s summit
- See manta rays on a magical night dive or snorkel
Yes! Many dive shops offer introductory scuba dives—no certification needed. Or start with a guided snorkelling tour to see coral gardens and sea turtles up close. Dive in, beginner style!