Hawaii Big Island Two-Day Itinerary
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Our two days on the Big Island of Hawaii were spent enjoying the natural wonders of the volcanic island.
Hawaii Big Island Two-Day Itinerary: (Jump To)
On our first-ever trip to Hawaii, we divided our time between Kona on the Big Island and Honolulu on the island of O’ahu. We planned to stay three nights on both islands. This tight schedule allowed us a taste of both islands. That way, the next time we see a flight deal, we know where to go.
With Just two full days to see the Big Island, we rented a car and headed out.
About the Big Island
The Island of Hawai’i, locally called simply “The Big Island,” is the most southern island in the chain and contains almost two-thirds of the total land mass of the state of Hawaii.
From almost any point on the island, Mauna Kea is visible. Mauna Kea is a dormant volcano. If measured from the undersea base of the mountain Mauna Kea is the tallest mountain on the planet. When we visited we were fortunate to see Mauna Kea snow-capped. Locals told us that it is a rarity.
We flew into Kona International Airport and took our rental car to the Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay. The resort is moderately priced and offers all the standard amenities including pools, sports courts, a gym, and various dining options. The room was pretty standard. The hotel is situated beachside with a cragged volcanic shore. While swimming is not allowed, it is a hot spot to see stingrays via boat or from shore.
We carefully planned our two days of adventure. Day one would take us up the northern shore of the island, ending at Waipio Valley. Day two would be set aside for Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.
Where to See Sea Turtles in Hawaii
Stop 1: Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park and Honokohanu Beach
One of my dreams for the trip was to catch a view of a sea turtle in the wild. I did some online research at home. I learned that Honokohau Beach was the best place for a chance to see the turtles sunning on the beach.
After breakfast at the hotel, we headed north to Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park. I was cautiously optimistic as we took the short hike from the parking lot to Honokohau Beach, but much to my excitement the beach was COVERED with sea turtles. Touching or feeding the turtles is illegal and state officials recommend staying 6-10 feet away at all times. We admired them from a safe distance before carrying on with our hike.
From the beach, we continued the loop hike along the water and back across a barren lava flow area back to the parking area.
Signs of Ancient Island Life
Stop 2: Puako Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve
Our next stop was Puako Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve. The preserve is home to at least 3,000 ancient petroglyphs, many etched into the lava rock. The origin and meaning of the drawings are unclear, but experts believe it was the way ancient Hawaiians shared important life events. Think of it as an early rock Facebook.
Getting to the main petroglyph area is a little confusing. It’s best to navigate to and park near Holoholokai Beach Park at the end of Holoholokai Beach Park Rd. There is a small display near the trailhead, this is not the entirety of the petroglyphs. Follow the in-and-back trail for about 10 minutes to see the largest collection.
See an Ancient Hawaiian Temple (or what’s left of it).
Stop 3: Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site
After our hike, we continued north to Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site. The site was set up to conserve the ruins of the last major ancient Hawaiian temple. I was pretty underwhelmed by the stop. The ruins were not much more than a rock wall and a few informational signs. The staff was knowledgeable and extremely willing to share, but I would put it safely on my to-skip list.
Lunch Break
Stop 4: Lunch in Waimea
From here we turned west traversing the island. We stopped for a quick lunch in Waimea. Crossing the island is like traveling to a different world. As elevation rises during the climb to Waimea the climate and the vegetation change with it. After crossing the midway point we decline back to the western shore. The vegetation becomes much more lush and green. When we hit the western coast we traveled briefly north to the Waipio Valley.
Where To See Stunning Hawaiian Waterfalls
Stop 5: Hiilawe Falls Lookout and Hike
This was the star of the day. Huge waterfalls fall from high cliffs into the Pacific Ocean. Palm trees sway in the salty ocean winds. We parked our car and practically ran to the ocean overlook.
We decided to take a hike down into the Waipio Valley to view the Hiilawe Falls Lookout. On the map, the hike looks short and easy, but I must warn you that it is a steep climb back up. To do this hike you must be in very good physical condition. It stands as the hardest climb we have ever taken.
That being said, it is so worth the effort. After the steep paved road ends the road turns to dirt (or really, mud) from there you follow the Wailoa stream to view the amazing hillside waterfall. The hike took us about 90 minutes (25 mins. down and 65 mins. back up).
After our hike, we drove back to the hotel in Kona. We got back to the resort in under two hours. Just in time to view the sun setting over the ocean from a viewpoint on the resort property. We ended the night with a delicious pizza from Bianelli's Gourmet Pizza in the Keauhou Shopping Center.
Day 2
Day two on the Big Island will take us to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.
