Courtyard King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel
Big Island, Hawaii
- Historic hotel in superb beach location
- Island Breeze Lu’au
- Tennis centre
Big Island holidays
An island you've got to see to believe.
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
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.
Hotels in Big Island
Hilton Waikoloa Village
Big Island, Hawaii
- Set in 62 acres of tropical oceanfront grounds
- Spacious and comfortable rooms
- 3 unique pools with water slides and cabanas, plus a saltwater lagoon
The Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa
Big Island, Hawaii
- 22-acre oceanfront resort
- Swimming pool with waterslide and kids' section
Royal Kona Resort
Big Island, Hawaii
- 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
Mauna Kea
Palm-fringed Mauna Kea beach is a quieter, yet still family friendly, beach with high-end resorts. During the calm summer months, this is also a great place to go snorkelling.
Pauoa Bay
Here you'll find one of the best-preserved coral reefs in Hawaii, protected by a natural sea wall, sat right in front of the Fairmont Orchid in the Mauna Lani Resort.
Kealakekua Bay
Explore the marine life here on the Kona coast - it's perfect for diving, kayaking, and snorkelling. The bay hosts one of the most abundant coral reefs on the island so it's a piece of paradise both on land and under water.
Hapuna Beach
Half a mile long, this is the largest of the island's white sand beaches, with family-friendly beach resorts, making it a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
Downtown Hilo
Explore the galleries, neo-classical Palace Theatre and centuries-old wooden shops in the islands biggest small town. Learn about Hawaii’s history at the Lyman Museum and Mission House.
Kahua Ranch
A working ranch that welcomes visitors, discover the paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) country with BBQ dinners, horseback riding adventures, and games of cornhole.
Tee Off
Enjoy world-class golf at the championship Mauna Kea Golf Course - built on a black lava field, with cliff walks & views of the ocean. There's 2 championship golf courses at Turtle Bay Resort too!
Kilauea Volcano
Hike across black lava fields to witness the glowing lava streams of this active shield volcano, located along the southeastern shore of Big Island.
Breathtaking Views
Hike the Waipi’o Valley or the challenging Muliwai Trail for spectacular mountaintop views. Or why not visit Mauna Kea for breathtaking sunrise and stargazing tours.
Coffee Country
Hawaii is one of the few U.S. states where coffee production is a significant economic industry - so why not take a Kona coffee farm tour, there's plenty of them. Or enjoy it in the form off Kona coffee steak rubs at TJ’s by the Beach, Kailua Kona.
April: The Merrie Monarch Festival
This week-long festival in Hilo town takes place the week after Easter, and celebrates Hawaiian culture, featuring an internationally acclaimed hula competition.
November: The Kona Coffee Festival
Celebrating Big Island’s 180-year-old coffee heritage, this is the longest-running food festival in the Aloha State, with art, music, dance, food, educational opportunities, and – of course – coffee!
Hilo’s Farmers Market
You can enjoy the colourful food stalls here twice a week, over 200 vendors selling produce, artisanal foods & crafts. The market is open all week but the days with the most vendors are Wednesday and Saturday.
Why choose Virgin Atlantic Holidays?
Need more travel tips or holiday help?
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.
