Web Content Writer

Hiking on the Big Island of Hawaii is one of the greatest opportunities to enjoy incredible landscapes and inspiring views.

The Big Island, otherwise known as the island of Hawai'i is of the most beautiful places on earth. One of the coolest things about the Big Island is that there are eight different climate zones. You can explore rainforests, desert areas, and polar ice caps (plus more).

When you come to Hawaii, you will realize that it is largely made up of two mountains, Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea. Mauna Loa is the largest mountain by volume in the world. Mauna Kea is the tallest mountain in the world if you count what’s below sea level. These massive mountains lend themselves to some pretty stellar hiking.

There is also incredible hiking in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you may even get to see lava.

The Big Island is named so because the lava is always flowing and therefore new land is born every day. There are four volcanoes on the island of Hawaii: Kilauea, Mauna Loa, Mauna Kea, and Hualalai.

When I lived on the Big Island I was able to walk right up to the lava flow. This was because of the timing and is not guaranteed. It just depends on what the lava is doing. This is also why helicopter rides are a popular attraction on the Big Island. You can always see the flow overhead, it is just too difficult to get to if the lava is flowing in a remote area.

In addition to high elevation climbs and hiking amongst volcanoes, the Big Island is full of beautiful green forests and offers coastal hiking and gorgeous valleys. Hike on the desert plains, along the shoreline, in the rain forest, or through lava tubes. It does not really matter. The Big Island is just that amazing.

We will categorize these Hikes based on regions. Kau, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hilo, Hamakua, Kohala, Kona, Saddle Road, and Puna.

Kau

First, we have rural and scenic Kau. Kau is home to South Point, the southernmost point in the United States. There are great places to hike on the plains of this area while enjoying the intensity of the dramatic landscapes. The ocean is always in sight. There are no amenities in the Kau hiking areas. You can, however, freely camp in a primitive setting on the public lands here. Always leave no trace and dig a hole for your bathroom needs.

Hikes in Kau

South Point

Length: 0.5 miles

Rating: easy

Route type: out and back.

You can drive down the dirt roads leading to South Point where you can then take the short hike to South Point, the southernmost point in the United States. You may see people jumping off the cliff into the ocean here. And, you may want to join them! There is a ladder you can climb back up after you jump. Regardless of whether or not you decide to jump off the cliff, you will enjoy spacious views of the Pacific Ocean.

Papakolea - Green Sands Beach

Length: 5.6 miles

Rating: moderate

Route type: Out and back

From South Point, you can make the trek to Green Sands Beach. This unique beach gets its name from mineral deposits of olivine crystals. These deposits come from an ancient lava flow which formed this beach. The beach also contains black and white sands so it is greener in some areas than in others. The hike follows a dirt road which makes it easy to navigate. You may even be able to hop a ride with a local driving to the beach. Hitch-hiking is very common on the Big Island. I would not recommend driving a rental to Papakolea. The road is rough. The views are wonderful.

Kau Desert Trailhead

Length: 3.8 miles

Rating: Easy

Route type: out and back.

When visiting the Kau district, you want to be sure to check out this trail. You will have the opportunity to see fossils of human footprints in the rock along the path. You will be exposed to the Kau “desert” which is largely desolate. You should bring lots of water, a hat, and sunscreen. You will see some wildflowers and the prolific ohia tree along the way. Plus, enjoy more impressive views of the Pacific.

Punalu’u - Black Sands Beach

Length: 5.8 miles

Rating: Moderate

Route type: Out and back

Come here if you want to see sea turtles. They are almost always laying on the beach. Plus you get to see rare black sand beaches made of lava rock. You can tweak this hike to your liking or hike the length of Punalu’u Bay. Plus, there are many places to post up on the beach here. There are also restrooms and sometimes food vendors.

Hikes in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

This park has it all. Including a luxury hotel. There are camping areas here as well. You can fill your water at the visitors center and check out the displays, or head down Chain of Craters Road to view the sea arch. You can find petroglyphs, lava tubes, rainforest, and desolate craters. It is of the ultimate in Big Island destinations. You can even see the glow of Kilauea Caldera at its corresponding museum. Peep the steam vents on your way down Crater Rim Drive to see the caldera. The glow of the caldera can be seen from long distances

Halape (Pu`u Loa via the Puna Coast Trail)

Length: 11.3 miles

Rating: difficult

Route type: point-to-point

This hike is not for you if you are an inexperienced hiker. You will need a water filter to refill water or bring a lot of it. This hike is ideal for an overnight backpacking trip. You need a permit for backcountry adventures.

You will find Halape on the Pu`u Loa via the Puna Coast Trail. You will begin and end on a road so you may want to leave vehicles on either end. Or, prepare a ride ahead of time. This will be a difficult hike with some pretty hefty elevation gains. You won’t be disappointed with the result. The reward of hiking to Halape is supreme. Picture a private beach and freshwater swimming holes in an incredible oasis amongst the desolate lava fields.

Pu’u Loa Petroglyphs Trail

Length 1.2 miles

Rating: easy

Route type: Out and back

This is a convenient trail stop-off on your way down Chain of Craters Road to check out the sea arch. This road is a major pipeline of the park with many stops along the way to explore hiking. We like this stop as it is an easy hike with an incredible connection to the ancient Hawaiians. There is a boardwalk along with parts of the trail which increases the ease of this walk.

Kilauea Craters Trail and Nahuku (Thurston Lava Tubes)

Length: 8.0 miles

Rating: moderate

Route type: Loop

This trail will give you a well-round experience of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. You will hike in the craters of long since erupted areas of the volcanoes you will be walking on. You may even see steam rising from the ground. You will get to experience jungle and rare plant species. Plus, you’ll walk across lava fields and through lava tube caves.

Hilo

Hilo is a rainy area of the Big Island. It is one of the busier areas of the island, though it is not as busy as Kona. There are lots of places to check out here, but we will stick with hikes for now. One of the main draws for hikes in this area is the waterfalls.

Rainbow Falls

Length: 0.1.miles/0.2 miles

Rating: Easy

Route type: out and back.

This is one of the most photographed spots in Hilo. There is not much of a hike to get to the falls. You can easily view them after a short 0.1-mile hike. Then hike further up the property to the upper falls (0.2 miles). When you venture upwards you will get to view one of the most incredible banyan trees I have ever seen. It is over 1000 years old. You will want to climb it. It is not too difficult as the tree allows for "hallways" that form along its many branches. It is a spectacular vision and a playground for all.

Wai’ale Falls Trail and Boiling Pots Lookout

Length: 0.6 miles, 0.3

Rating: Moderate

Route Type: Out and back

Here you can view another gorgeous Hawaiian waterfall. Plus the Boiling Pots Lookout is pretty stellar, too. The rapids below will surely impress. It is also nice as these are 2 more short hikes with great rewards. You can easily do Rainbow Falls and Wai’ale Falls in one day. Have a waterfall day!

Liliuokalani Botanical Garden, Banyan Drive, and Coconut Island Loop

Length 2.3 miles

Rating: Easy

Route Type: Loop

This is a great way to see a few Hilo landmarks in one fell swoop. The gardens are lovely with Japanese Zen garden vibes. Banyan Drive is cool because of the banyans, of course. The banyans were planted by celebrities who have placards on the trees. It’s known as the “Hilo Walk of Fame”. Finally, Coconut Island is a tiny little island with a park, restrooms, and some beaches. It is popular to jump off the tower in the waters of Hilo Bay from here.

Fun Fact: Coconut Island was originally called Moku Ola by the ancient Hawaiians. It translates to “healing island”. It was said that one could heal themselves by swimming around the island three times.

Hamakua

Head north from Hilo to picturesque Hamakua. Hamakua is an excellent part of the island for "rainbow hunting". Plus it is just such a beautiful part of the island. Get lost in the jungle or a sacred valley as you explore Hamakua.

Alakahi Falls

Length: 4.6 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Route type: Out and back

This is a sweet jungle hike that is largely paved. There are lots of steps, too. We love this hike for the waterfall view. Plus the bamboo forest is killer. Prepare for wild tropical flowers and a great workout.

Waipio Valley Trail

Length: 4.7 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Route type: Out and back

This is by far one of the most beautiful locations on the island. It is truly magical. You will have to endure the steep grade of the road down into the valley, but it is worth every step. Also, be aware that there is a river crossing here. At times the river is not passable due to heavy rainfall. So keep that in mind.

Waipio Valley is a sacred valley to the Hawaiians. It was a place where they lived and celebrated together. King Kamehameha was raised in this valley. I urge you to remember this when you visit. Hold space for this lost, but not forgotten, society. You will have better experiences in Hawaii in general if you hold to this rule of respect.

Kaluapuhi Trail

Length: 2.3 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Route type: Out and back

This trail is located in Koke’e State Park. There are a bunch more hikes in this park, so you can get more and less of a challenge when you visit if you’d like. We like this trail for how easy it is with some great rewards. See wildflowers and enjoy the shade. I recommend you check out Kalalau Lookout on your way to or from this hike.

Kohala

Kohala is situated at the very top of the big island. There are just a couple of spots for hiking here. Be sure to stop in the wonderful town of Hawi to fuel up for your trip. The town is so charming, you might not ever want to leave.

Pololu Trail and Awini Lookout

Length: 0.9 miles, 3.9 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Route type: Out and back

This trail will take you down to Pololu Valley. Enjoy views of the ocean and the green mountains which cascade along the coastline. There are some swings here for you to enjoy. We suggest bringing a hammock to relax in while taking in the sights and sounds. The beach is pretty rocky in parts, but if you bring a hammock, you will literally be “made in the shade”.

To explore the area more keep hiking past the beach and follow the trail up. It can be pretty wet and muddy to hike but you get great views and the heart pumping. This is where the 3.9 miles comes in.

Kona

Next, we have the “Kona-side”. There are a plethora of things to do in the Kona district. One of the big ones is hiking to some hidden beaches along the coast. Plus there are forest and lava hikes for you to enjoy among the many amenities of Kona.

Makalawena Beach

Length: 2.2 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Route type: Out and back

This is the best beach on the Big Island. It is rarely crowded by beachgoers because of the effort it takes to get there. You will walk down a road to reach the beach. It has no shade so be sure to bring your reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water. Once you reach the beach you can continue walking to make this a 4-mile hike if you desire. The waters are usually calm for swimming so you may want to just jump right in and enjoy the blue water and white sandy beach.

Pu'u Wa'a Wa'a Cinder Cone Trail

Length: 7.1 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Route type: Loop

Pu'u Wa'a Wa'a Cinder Cone State Park has many great hikes. We like this one as you end up at the top of Pu’u Wa’a Wa’a. You will get to see an awesome view of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, two of my favorite mountains in the world. The rock formation is also super cool. Enjoy wildflowers and spacious views.

Kealakekua Bay

Length: 3.8 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Route type: Out and back

To find the unmarked trailhead, park on Nāpō'opo'o Road at telephone pole #4. There are other turn-outs to park in so please do not block the road. This is an awesome hike that ends at the bay, so you may want to bring snorkel gear along. You may get to see ruins from old Hawaiian villages. At low tide, you may see the placard which marks where Captain Cook landed. He “discovered” Hawaii and it has never been the same. His connection with the island is significant. You may also get to see Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins and other wildlife.

Saddle Road Hikes

Cutting across the island is Saddle Road. It is from here you can access hikes on Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. You may even want to summit them. Prepare for the cooler temperatures that occur at higher altitudes. Also, be aware that hiking at these elevations can cause Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Remember to stop frequently if you choose to hike up the mountain which is almost 14,000 feet. Bring plenty of water and snacks. Take your time and allow yourself to acclimate to the elevation. Plus bring a hat and sunscreen. It feels cool, but you are super exposed to the sun.

Mauna Loa Summit

Length:13 miles

Difficulty: Hard

Route type: Out and back.

When you climb Mauna Loa, you are hiking on the world’s largest mountain by volume in the world and the world’s largest volcano. To get to the trailhead, take Saddle Road to Mauna Kea Observatory Road (between mile markers 27 and 28). Park at the trailhead after 17.5 miles of driving on this road. It is one lane in some spots and rough so drive carefully. Bring a map. The route is marked with cairns so it is relatively easy to navigate. Just be sure not to hop on the Mauna Loa Trail that begins in the lowland. That is not the same trail you are on here.

Mauna Kea Summit via Humu'ula Trail

Length:12 miles

Difficulty: Hard

Route type: Out and back.

To get to the trailhead follow the same directions for Mauna Loa’s trailhead but stop at Ellison Onizuka Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station after about 6 miles. This is where the trailhead will be. You need a permit to hike Mauna Kea but it is easy to do with a self-registration station at the trailhead. Be sure to drop off your registration at the visitor center. You will get to hike past Lake Waiau which is the highest lake in the Pacific Basin. Plus when you climb Mauna Kea, you are hiking the highest mountain in Hawaii, in the Pacific Rim, and the highest sea mountain in the world.

Mauna Kea is named for the Hawaiian sky god Wakea, making this a sacred mountain. Please remember this as you climb. Leave no trace and honor the tumultuous history of this mountain. There are still many people protesting the telescope and further development of Mauna Kea as it is just that sacred.

In addition to these massive hikes on Saddle Road, there are plenty of shorter hikes you can do. Puʻu ʻo ‘o Trail (8.3 miles), Pu'u Kalepeamoa Loop (1.3 or 3.8 miles), or Kaūmana Trail (2.7 miles) are some other great options for this area.

The only district not fully covered in this article includes the Puna District. This is where a lot of the rainfall on the island occurs. If the lava is flowing in the right direction, you can access the lava flow from the Puna District. Hiking on the Kalapana Lava Fields to see lava pouring from the mountainside is truly awe-inspiring. I hope you get to experience it when you visit the Big Island. There are many beautiful spots along the Red Road to explore, as well. Puna is a really special part of the island, so don’t count it out!

I love this island. The Big Island is full of adventure and learning opportunities. I’ve said it once and I will say it again. Respect. Respect this place and its history or Pele (the volcano goddess) will try to smite you off the island. You will know if you are welcome. Show up with an open heart and an open mind and the island will embrace you. Honor the ancient Hawaiians through your appreciation and care of this sacred place. It is full of jaw-dropping views and incredible experiences.

Enjoy your exploration of the Big Island!

Contact this candidate