The Big Island is our favourite Hawaiian island for adventurous families, and we’ve put together a comprehensive Big Island itinerary for families with stays ranging from 5 to 14 days.
This remote island has active volcanoes, black sand beaches, manta ray snorkelling, lava tubes, tropical rainforests, high mountain summits, and some of the best stargazing we’ve ever experienced. It also feels less built up and more rugged than Maui or Oahu, which gives the island a completely different atmosphere.
These itineraries are designed for families who enjoy getting out and exploring rather than spending long stretches at a resort. That doesn’t mean every day needs to be packed full though. Some of our favourite Hawaii memories come from slower afternoons at the beach, walking around to find the best shaved ice, or watching the sunset after a full day outdoors.
To help you plan your trip, we’ve broken everything down into easy-to-follow Big Island itineraries for families, from shorter 5-day trips to more relaxed 14-day adventures. Let’s get to them!
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Big Island Quick Planning Guide
| Best for | Adventurous families, nature lovers, snorkelling, volcanoes, and road trips |
|---|---|
| Ideal trip length | 10 to 14 days (or more if you have the time) |
| Rental vehicle needed | Yes, absolutely |
| Best time to visit | Year-round, with calmer snorkelling conditions typically from late spring through early fall |
Important: Book These Activities in Advance
Before diving into the itinerary, note that several activities can sell out weeks or even months ahead, especially during peak travel seasons. Plan ahead and book these now:
- Manta ray night snorkel tours (book 4-6 weeks ahead)
- Helicopter tours over volcanoes and waterfalls (book 3-4 weeks ahead)
- Popular family-friendly accommodations (book 2-3 months for peak seasons)
- Captain Cook snorkel excursions to Kealakekua Bay (book 2-3 weeks ahead)
What to Pack: Big Island Climate & Conditions
The Big Island has several completely different climate zones and it’s possible to experience them all in a single day. You may go from hot sunny beaches to cool mountain temperatures and wet rainforest conditions all within a few hours. Here are a few things we strongly recommend packing:
- Reef-safe sunscreen: Essential for protecting both your family and Hawaii’s coral reefs
- Lightweight rain jackets: Weather changes quickly, especially at higher elevations
- Good walking shoes: For exploring lava fields, rainforests, and volcanic terrain
- Warmer layers for Mauna Kea evenings: Evening temperatures at elevation drop significantly (bring fleece or sweaters)
- Snorkel gear if your family enjoys frequent beach stops: Bring your own to save on rental costs
- Motion sickness medication: Recommended mainly for boat tours (especially manta ray night snorkels) and the Saddle Road or Hawaii Belt routes, which can be windy and winding
Where to Stay on the Big Island
The Big Island is much larger than many visitors expect. Driving from Kona to Hilo takes roughly 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on the route and conditions, and some day trips can involve significant time in the car. Because of this, we strongly recommend splitting your stay between two parts of the island rather than using one hotel base for the entire trip.
Hilo
Hilo area is the best base for exploring waterfalls, rainforests, and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. It’s greener, quieter, more local, and usually more affordable than the Kona side.
Suggested family-friendly accommodations:
- Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo (DoubleTree by Hilton)
- SCP Hilo Hotel
- Vacation rental for self-catering
Volcano Village
If your family wants to fully experience Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, spending one or two nights near the park can be a great addition to your itinerary.
Suggested accommodations:
- Volcano House
- Kilauea Lodge and Restaurant
Kona
Kona is ideal for restaurants, snorkelling tours, manta ray excursions, and easier access to the island’s west coast beaches.
Suggested family-friendly accommodations:
- Royal Kona Resort
- Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel
- Vacation Rental for self-catering
Waikoloa and Kohala Coast
The Kohala Coast is where you’ll find many of the island’s larger family resorts, calmer beaches, and luxury stays.
Suggested accommodations:
- Hilton Waikoloa Village
- Hilton Grand Vacations Kings Land (resort option with full condos)
- Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa
- Fairmont Orchid
- Vacation rental for self-catering
Big Island Itinerary Overview
Days 1 to 5: Kona Side (with Volcano Day Trip): A west-side focused itinerary covering snorkelling, beaches, coffee country, North Kohala, and a full-day visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Days 1 to 7: Kona Side & Hilo/Volcano Area Highlights: A balanced 1-week Big Island itinerary combining both sides of the island, including key volcano experiences, waterfalls, and top west coast beaches.
Days 1 to 10: Hilo/Volcano Highlights, Kona Side, & Slower Exploration Days: A slower-paced itinerary with more beach time, Waimea exploration, additional snorkelling, and time to enjoy the island without rushing.
Days 1 to 14: Ultimate Big Island Road Trip Itinerary: The full experience featuring extended stays on both coasts, hidden beaches, scenic drives, and deeper exploration of the island’s diverse regions.
5-Day Big Island Itinerary: Kona Side & Volcano Day Trip
If you only have 5 days on the Big Island, this itinerary focuses on the west side (Kona and Kohala Coast) with a day trip to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Day 1: Arrival in Kona & Easy First Beach Day
Arrive into Kona International Airport (KOA), pick up your rental vehicle, and head straight into island mode on the west side of the Big Island.
If you’re arriving earlier in the day, it’s worth stopping lunch before checking into your accommodation. Kailua-Kona town or Waikoloa are the most convenient bases on the Kona side as they provide easy access to beaches, snorkelling, and day trips up the Kohala Coast or down towards Captain Cook.
If you still have daylight to play with, a great way to ease into the trip is a visit to Kahaluʻu Beach Park. This is one of the best beginner snorkelling spots on the island. The water is typically calm, and you’ll often see colourful reef fish just a few metres from shore, making it especially good for families introducing kids to snorkelling.
If you still have energy, enjoy a relaxed sunset dinner along Aliʻi Drive, where you’ll find plenty of casual family-friendly restaurants and ocean views.
Pro Tip
When you first arrive on the island, stop at Costco, Walmart, or Target to stock up on groceries and beach supplies for the week.
Eating out on the island adds up quickly so, at minimum, having breakfast items, snacks, and drinks on hand makes a big difference for families. You’ll also save a ton if you eat most dinners in if staying at a place with a kitchen (our pick!).
Day 2: Kona Coast Snorkelling & Coffee Country
Start the morning off by heading down to Two Step (Hōnaunau Bay). This is one of the most famous snorkelling locations on the Big Island. Entry is from lava rock rather than a beach, but once you’re in the water, the visibility and marine life are exceptional. It’s very common to see tropical fish, coral gardens, and sometimes even spinner dolphins offshore.
Older kids who are confident swimmers will especially enjoy this spot, but it may not be suitable for younger children. If you decide this isn’t for your little ones, then we’d recommend checking out (or heading back to) Kahaluʻu Beach Park for some easy snorkelling and fish spotting time.
If you prefer a guided tours or want easier access, a snorkel tour to Captain Cook Monument is another excellent option and one of the best snorkelling areas in all of Hawaii.
In the afternoon, head inland to explore Kona coffee country. The slopes above Kona are home to dozens of small farms where you can learn how coffee is grown and processed. Many tours are short and family-friendly, making them an easy addition between beach time and dinner.
Day 3: North Kohala Scenic Drive + Mauna Kea Beach Afternoon
Today explore the more remote and scenic northern tip of the island in the morning, then finish with a relaxed beach afternoon on the Kohala Coast.
From Kailua-Kona, the drive up to North Kohala takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours one way, depending on your exact starting point and stops along the route. The return drive is similar, so plan for a full, but very rewarding day of exploring. If you are staying along the Kohala Coast then the driving time will be less.
In the morning, take the coastal drive up through North Kohala, where winding roads, open farmland, and dramatic ocean views set the tone for the day. Your main highlight is Pololū Valley Lookout, one of the most iconic viewpoints on the Big Island and a great stop for families to take in the scenery and stretch their legs.
Continue on to the charming small towns of Hawi and Kapaʻau, where you’ll find local cafés, art galleries, and a much slower pace than Kona. This area feels like a different island entirely.
Make your main afternoon stop at Kaunaʻoa Beach (Mauna Kea Beach) beside the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. This is one of the most beautiful white sand beaches on the island, with calm, clear water that is ideal for swimming and family beach time when conditions are good. The crescent-shaped bay is naturally protected, making it one of the more reliable and family-friendly swimming beaches on the Kohala Coast.
This was one of our favourite spots for letting our little ones swim and play with minimal wave action or undertow to worry about. We also saw sea turtles here and enjoyed some light snorkelling along the far rocky edge opposite the hotel, which can be a great area to explore when the ocean is calm.
Parking is limited here as it is tied to the Mauna Kea Resort, so arrive earlier in the afternoon if possible or be prepared for public access restrictions depending on availability.
From Mauna Kea Beach, it’s approximately 45 to 60 minutes back to Kailua-Kona, depending on traffic and time of day. It’s only 20 minutes from Waikoloa if staying in that area.
Day 4: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Day Trip
Today is your big adventure day, and one of the most memorable experiences on the island for both adults and kids.
Start early and drive from Kona to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which takes approximately 2 to 3 hours each way when taking the southern coastal route from Kailua-Kona (traffic dependent). The drive itself is part of the experience as the landscape shifts from dry coastal terrain to rugged lava fields, then into lush rainforest and volcanic highlands.
We recommend stopping in Volcano Village for a quick lunch before entering the park. This is a good chance for families to reset, stretch, and refuel before exploring.
Once inside the park, spend the day exploring:
- The Kīlauea Visitor Center: A great first stop for all ages to learn about the park’s geology and current conditions .
- The famous Thurston Lava Tube: A big hit with kids thanks to its short, easy walk through a real lava cave).
- Sections of the Crater Rim Drive: There are multiple viewpoints that are suitable for all ages and require minimal walking, as well as steam vents and volcanic landscapes along the road, with short pull-offs that are easy for families to explore.
- The Kīlauea Iki Trail, either stopping at the viewpoint overlooking the massive crater floor (ideal for families with younger children or those wanting a shorter experience) or hiking down into it for an unforgettable walk across a once-molten lava lake (best suited for families with older kids or confident hikers due to the longer, steeper return climb).
Pack layers, as temperatures can be cooler and wetter here than on the coast.
After a full day of exploring, drive back to the Kona side in the evening.
Day 5: Departure Day or Relaxed Kohala Coast Morning
After a busy few days exploring the island, today is all about slowing down and enjoying the Kohala Coast at an easy pace before heading home.
If you have a later flight, start your morning at Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area, one of the best white sand beaches in Hawaii. This is a beautiful beach that is ideal for a final swim, boogie board session, or relaxed family beach time. The wave action varies by season so check conditions to ensure it works for your family.
Depending on your schedule, you can also visit nearby beaches such as Waialea Bay (Beach 69). This area is perfect for squeezing in one last ocean swim or simply letting the kids play in the sand before you head to the airport.
In the afternoon, make your way back toward Kona International Airport (KOA) with plenty of time for your departure. If your flight is later in the day, you may still have time for a final lunch in Kona or one last scenic stop along the coast before saying goodbye to the Big Island. For more ideas on how to structure your departure day, see our Departure Day Tips.
Core 7-Day Big Island Itinerary: The Highlights Tour
This itinerary spends the first two nights on the Hilo side of the island before heading back to the Kona side. This layout allows you to explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park without the long same-day drive from Kona. You will get more time in the park, as well as time to explore Hilo’s waterfalls and charming town centre, and enjoy a more relaxed overall pace.
Day 1: Arrival and Drive to Hilo
Arrive into Kona International Airport (KOA), pick up your rental vehicle, and begin the drive across the island toward Hilo. The Saddle Road route is far quicker than it used to be and offers incredible scenery as you cross between Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. From KOA airport to Hilo typically takes 1.5 hours depending on traffic and your exact end point.
Once you arrive in Hilo, settle into your accommodation and keep the evening relaxed. If time allows and you have energy left after driving, stop by Rainbow Falls (a powerful waterfall surrounded by lush rainforest) before sunset, or grab dinner in downtown Hilo. Rainbow Falls is conveniently located right in Hilo town, so it’s an easy add-on if you arrive with time to spare.
Pro Tip
Before leaving Kona, stop at Costco, Walmart, or Target to stock up on groceries and beach supplies for the week. There is a Walmart and Target in Hilo as well, but be mindful of your arrival time.
Eating out on the island can add up quickly, so at least having breakfast items, snacks, and drinks on hand makes a big difference for families. You’ll also save a ton if you eat most dinners in if staying at a place with a kitchen (our pick!).
Day 2: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Spend the full day exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This is one of the most impressive places we’ve visited anywhere with our children.
Walk through the Thurston Lava Tube, hike sections of the Crater Rim Trail, and explore the Devastation Trail through lava fields created by previous eruptions. You can also experience the Kīlauea Iki Trail, either from the overlook viewpoint or by hiking down into the crater itself for a walk across a vast, hardened lava lake.
Pack layers and rain jackets as weather conditions can change quickly. If volcanic activity is visible during your visit, staying after dark to see the caldera glow is worth it (we just missed an eruption event so at least this way we could still see fire and smoke from the caldera).
Day 3: Scenic Drive Back to Kona
Today you’ll make the drive back toward the Kona side using the southern coastal route (approximately 2 to 3 hours of driving).
Stop at Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach to look for Hawaiian green sea turtles resting on the sand. From there, continue to Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park to explore one of the most important historical sites in Hawaii (our kids found it fascinating!).
Right next door is Two Step (a reef access point with no true beach). This is one of the island’s best snorkelling spots. Note that there are no restrooms or amenities here, so plan accordingly. This can be a tricky spot for small children, so just keep that in mind.
Arrive at your Kona-side accommodation later in the afternoon and settle in for the next several nights.
Day 4: Slower Kona Beach Day
After several busy days, this is a good point in the itinerary to slow the pace slightly.
Spend the morning at a nearby beach or enjoy a slower breakfast by the pool. If your family enjoys snorkelling and is up for more adventure, consider a Captain Cook snorkel excursion to Kealakekua Bay (book in advance for best availability). For an option closer to Kona, Kahaluʻu Beach Park is located along Ali’I Drive and is one of the best beginner snorkelling spots on the island.
Keep dinner simple tonight and enjoy sunset somewhere along Aliʻi Drive or wherever is close to you if staying outside Kailua-Kona town.
Day 5: Hapuna Beach and Manta Rays
Spend the morning at Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area, one of the best white sand beaches on the island.
Note: There is a $10 parking fee and $5 per person entry fee for non-residents (as of 2021), but it’s still worth at least one visit.
In the evening, book the famous Kona manta ray night dive snorkel (or Kona manta ray night dive if a certified diver) if your older children are confident swimmers and comfortable in the ocean after dark. This is genuinely one of the most unique wildlife experiences in Hawaii.
The experience of floating alongside manta rays in their natural habitat is unforgettable. We’ve done the snorkel once and the scuba dive with mantas twice, and both are incredible in their own way.
If the manta snorkel doesn’t fit your family, spend the evening exploring Kona town or Waikoloa instead (opt for some epic shaved ice treats).
Day 6: Mauna Kea Beach and Sunset Stargazing
Start the day at Kaunaʻoa Beach (often called Mauna Kea Beach). The water here is usually calm and crystal clear with soft white sand that works beautifully for families.
Later in the afternoon, drive up to the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station for sunset. Watching the clouds sitting below you as the sun drops behind the horizon is something you won’t soon forget.
Once darkness settles in, the sky becomes incredibly clear and dark, revealing thousands of stars overhead and on a clear night even the Milky Way stretching across the sky. It’s quite something to witness!
Note: Temperatures are much colder at about 2,800 m (9,200 ft) elevation than at the beach so bring warm clothing. It’s not uncommon for it to under 10°C (50°F)
Day 7: Flexible Final Day
Use your final day however best suits your family. Our suggestions include:
- Another beach day along the Kohala Coast
- Snorkelling at Kahaluʻu Beach Park
- A day pass to one of the Waikoloa luxury resorts (we loved the facilities at the Hilton Waikoloa Village)
- A quiet day at your accommodation and pool before the final pack-up for the airport
This is also a good day to keep things flexible depending on energy levels, especially when travelling with kids after a busy week of exploring. For more ideas on how to structure your departure day, see our Departure Day Tips.
10-Day Big Island Itinerary: The Extended Adventure Tour
This 10-day Big Island itinerary adds extra time on the Hilo side of the island. This allows you to more fully explore waterfalls, rainforest areas, and the Puna coastline before continuing on to Kona and the Kohala Coast.
With a slower pace and fewer rushed driving days, this version works especially well for families who want more flexibility. It builds in additional beach time, and extra opportunities to experience the island beyond the main highlights.
Day 1: Arrival and Drive to Hilo
Arrive at Kona International Airport, pick up your rental vehicle, and make the drive across the island toward Hilo via Saddle Road (1.5 hours of driving). Remember to stop for snacks, etc.
Once you arrive in Hilo, keep the day relaxed. Depending on arrival time, you may want to stop at Rainbow Falls (a powerful waterfall surrounded by lush rainforest) or wander around downtown Hilo before dinner.
Alternative Base: If you prefer a vacation rental and self-catering, another excellent area to stay is south of Pahoa near the old Kalapana town site. This is actually our favourite area to base ourselves on the Hilo side, as it gives easy access to the rugged Puna coastline, lava fields, and quieter local beaches. It also puts you close to Uncle Robert’s Wednesday night market and Saturday morning market.
Day 2: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Spend the full day exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This is one of the most impressive places we’ve visited anywhere with our children.
Walk through the Thurston Lava Tube, hike sections of the Crater Rim Trail, and explore the Devastation Trail through lava fields created by previous eruptions. You can also experience the Kīlauea Iki Trail, either from the overlook viewpoint or by hiking down into the crater itself for a walk across a vast, hardened lava lake. Even younger children tend to be fascinated by the constantly changing landscape here.
Pack layers and rain jackets as weather conditions can change quickly here. If volcanic activity is visible during your visit, staying after dark to see the caldera glow is worth it (we just missed an eruption event so at least this way we could still see fire and smoke from the caldera).
Day 3: Akaka Falls and the Puna Coast
Start the morning with a drive north along the Hamakua Coast to Akaka Falls State Park. The short rainforest walk to the waterfall is easy for most families and one of the most beautiful quick stops on the island. Our boys really liked the walk and marvelled at the waterfall for some time.
Later in the day, head south toward the Puna district and the Kalapana area. This part of the island feels wild and rugged, with black lava fields stretching into the ocean and reminders everywhere of how active the island still is.
Stop at the Kalapana lava viewing area by Uncle Robert’s Awa Bar and Farmer’s Market, browse local markets if they’re operating during your visit, and take your time exploring the coastline around Isaac Hale Beach Park.
Return to your accommodation for a relaxed evening with takeout after a busy day.
Hidden Gem
We originally stopped along Kalapana-Kapoho Road just looking for a place to turn around when we stumbled across Hale Aloha, a small convenience store and café tucked away near the Kalani Retreat Centre. Both are surprisingly hidden from the main road, making it feel like a true hidden gem. We love finding these out of the way spots and recommend stopping if exploring the area.
Alternative Routing: If you’re staying south of Hilo, you may find it easier to do this day in reverse. Another option is to combine Akaka Falls with your Hawaii Volcanoes National Park day by visiting Akaka Falls first, then continuing on to the park afterwards. If you haven’t seen Rainbow Falls yet, it’s an easy add-on to the same route since it’s located right in Hilo.
Day 4: Scenic Drive to Kona
Make your way back toward Kona using the southern coastal route (approximately 2.5 to 3 hours of driving).
Along the drive, stop at Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach to look for Hawaiian green sea turtles resting on the sand. Continue on to Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park and nearby Two Step for snorkelling.
Note that Two Step is a reef access point with no true beach. This is one of the island’s best snorkelling spots. There aren’t any restrooms or amenities here and it can be a tricky spot for small children due to it’s water access point.
Arrive at your Kona-side accommodation later in the afternoon.
Day 5: Beach Day in Kona and Town Tour
Take a slower day after several bigger sightseeing days.
Spend the morning at Magic Sands Beach or Kahaluʻu Beach Park, both popular family-friendly spots near Kona. If your family is up for more adventure, consider a Captain Cook snorkel excursion to Kealakekua Bay.
In the late afternoon, head back toward Kailua-Kona town to enjoy Happy Hour at a local spot along the strip. Take time to stroll through town, browse local shops, and pick up any souvenirs you may be looking for.
Pro Tip
Tuesday through Sunday, local markets pop up along Aliʻi Drive with vendors selling fresh produce, crafts, and island goods. They’re perfect for picking up unique finds and supporting local businesses.
Day 6: Hapuna Beach and Manta Rays
Spend the morning at Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area before relaxing through the afternoon.
In the evening, if your family is comfortable in the water after dark, the Kona manta ray night snorkel, or Kona manta ray night dive, are one of the most memorable experiences on the island and well worth considering. We’ve done the snorkel once and the scuba dive with mantas twice, and both are amazing experiences.
Day 7: Mauna Kea Sunset and Stargazing
Enjoy a relaxed beach or pool morning before heading up to the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station in the late afternoon for sunset and stargazing. Watching the sun disappear above the clouds while the stars slowly emerge is one of those Hawaii experiences for families that stays with you long after the trip ends.
Remember to bring warm layers as elevation temperatures are significantly cooler than coastal temperatures.
Day 8: North Kohala Exploration
In the morning, drive north toward Hawi and the Kohala region (about 1 hour from Kailua-Kona town). This area is quieter and greener with rolling hills, dramatic coastal scenery, and fewer tourists.
Stop at Pololū Valley Lookout for one of the most beautiful viewpoints on the island.
In the afternoon, head to Kaunaʻoa Beach (Mauna Kea Beach) for a relaxing beach session. The water here is usually calm and crystal clear with soft white sand that works beautifully for families.
Day 9: Waimea, Waipiʻo Valley & Kohala Adventures
Spend the day exploring the northern and central parts of the Big Island with a mix of adventure activities, scenic upcountry landscapes, and one of the island’s most dramatic viewpoints. Depending on your stops and chosen activities, plan for approximately 3 to 4 hours of driving throughout the day.
Highlights:
- Optional morning ziplining adventure in the Kohala region (especially fun for older kids and teens)
- Slower morning option in Waimea town, known for its paniolo culture, cooler temperatures, cafés, and local shops
- Anuenue Playground (optional stop for families travelling with younger children)
- Lunch or coffee stop in Waimea
- Drive out to the dramatic Waipiʻo Valley Lookout, one of the most impressive viewpoints on the Big Island
- Optional scenic driving through the surrounding Hamakua countryside
- Relaxed return toward Kona or the Kohala Coast for the evening
This day gives families flexibility to choose between adventure, sightseeing, and slower exploration while still experiencing another very different side of the Big Island.
Day 10: Kua Bay Beach Day (and/or Departure)
By this stage of the trip, most families appreciate a slower day, or last crack at a fun final day.
Spend the day at Maniniʻowali Beach (Kua Bay), one of the most beautiful white sand beaches on the Kona coast. The water here is usually crystal clear and, on calmer days, perfect for swimming, bodyboarding, and simply relaxing on the sand.
It’s the kind of beach where you can easily spend a few hours without needing to move around much, just enjoying the surf, the scenery, and a slower pace.
Note: There is a $10 parking fee and $5 per person entry fee for non-residents (as of 2026), but it’s still worth at least one visit.
If you are departing later in the day, this can be a great way to end your trip. If you have an earlier flight, you may prefer to request a late checkout from your accommodation so you can relax a little before heading to the airport. For more ideas on how to structure your departure day, see our Departure Day Tips.
14-Day Big Island Itinerary: The Ultimate Big Island Tour
Two weeks on the Big Island gives you enough time to truly settle into island life and explore well beyond the main highlights without feeling rushed. Even then, if you have more than 14 days, you could easily spend extra time discovering hidden beaches, scenic drives, waterfalls, small towns, snorkelling spots, and lesser-known places across the island.
This 14-day Big Island itinerary builds on our 10-day itinerary, giving you more time to explore.
Day 11: Recharge Resort Day
At this stage of a longer Hawaii trip, most families benefit from a true recharge day.
Book a resort day pass (unless already staying at a resort), relax by the pool, enjoy the beach, and slow the pace down for a day.
The Hilton Waikoloa Village is a fantastic option for families and feels like a destination in itself. We stayed a few nights as a treat at Hilton Grand Vacations Kings’ Land, which offers spacious condo-style units along with excellent pools and waterslides. As an added bonus, we also had access to the full Hilton Waikoloa Village property, including its pools and lagoons.
Day 12: South Point Adventure or Ho’okena Beach Day
This day is designed as a flexible option depending on your family’s energy levels and the ages of your kids. If you’ve got older children and want a full adventure day, head to South Point and the green sand beach. If you’re travelling with younger kids or prefer a slower pace, stick closer to Kona with a relaxed beach day at Ho’okena.
OPTION 1: South Point and Green Sand Beach Adventure
This option is best suited to active families with older kids or teens, as it involves a longer drive and a more physically demanding beach access.
- Drive down to Ka Lae (South Point), the southernmost point in the United States
- Continue on to Papakōlea Green Sand Beach, one of only a few green sand beaches in the world
- Either hike in (about 9 km / 5.6 mi round trip) or use the local shuttle service from the parking area. The “shuttle service” is locals willing to drive you to the beach for a fee.
- Enjoy time at the beach, then make your way back north at a relaxed pace
- Optional stops along the way depending on energy levels and timing
Note: Papakōlea Green Sand Beach isn’t recommended for swimming, but it’s a beautiful scenic spot that’s best enjoyed by taking photos and marvelling in the unique landscape.
OPTION 2: Ho’okena Beach Park and Slow South Kona Day
This version keeps the day simple and low stress, which works especially well for families with younger kids or anyone needing a break from driving and bigger excursions.
- Morning at Ho’okena Beach Park, a sheltered beach with calm water, good swimming, some snorkelling, and a relaxed local feel
- Easy beach time with snorkelling, paddle play, or just relaxing under the shade
- Optional short stop at a Kealakekua Bay lookout for scenic coastal views
- Afternoon back in the Kona area for pool time or another nearby beach such as Kahaluʻu Beach Park
Day 13: Relaxed Beach and Snorkelling Day
Return to your favourite beach or book a snorkelling excursion, depending on how you want to spend the day. This is also a great opportunity to fit in anything you may have missed, whether that is another activity, a place you have been wanting to explore, or a restaurant you still want to try.
Day 14: Final Morning and Departure
Enjoy one final beach visit and make the most of your last few hours on the island before heading to the airport. For more ideas on how to structure your departure day, see our Departure Day Tips.
Departure Day Tips
Departure days in Hawaii can feel bittersweet, but a little planning makes them much smoother, especially with kids in tow.
If your flight departs in the morning or early-to-mid afternoon: Stay at your accommodation until checkout, then head to the airport with time to spare. If you have an hour or two before you need to leave, a final coffee at a local cafe or a quick browse of a nearby market is a lovely way to spend your last Hawaiian morning.
If your flight departs in the early evening: Ask your accommodation about a late checkout. Most vacation rentals and hotels will accommodate a later checkout for a small fee or sometimes at no charge if it’s not busy. This gives you time for one last beach visit or pool morning before cleaning up and heading to the airport.
If your flight departs late evening (between 9 and 11 PM is our usual departuretime): We have two suggestions that work well for families.
- Arrange a late checkout from your accommodation. Then spend the day at a nearby beach, come back to shower and do final packing, grab an early dinner, and head to the airport relaxed and ready.
- Skip the late checkout entirely. Instead book a day pass at a resort within 45 minutes or so from the airport. This way you can spend the day enjoying the facilities in a little comfort, get showered and changed there, eat dinner, and head to the airport without the scramble.
On the Big Island, a day pass at the Hilton Waikoloa Village is a fantastic option and a brilliant way to end a Big Island trip in style.
Which Big Island Itinerary is Right for Your Family?
| Trip length | Best for | Key activities | Pace |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 Days | Quick getaway, younger kids | Kona beaches, volcanoes (abbreviated) | Fast — focused on must-sees |
| 7 Days | Standard family vacation | Volcanoes, snorkelling, Kona, one waterfall | Moderate — good balance |
| 10 Days | Family road trip enthusiasts | All above + North Kohala, multiple waterfalls, slower beach days | Relaxed — time to breathe |
| 14 Days | Extended family adventure | All above + hidden beaches, South Point, resort days, stargazing, multiple snorkel excursions | Very relaxed — full immersion |
All itineraries can easily be adjusted based on your family’s energy and interests.
Practical Tips for Planning Your Hawaiian Trip
- Rent a car: You need one on every island. Public transport is limited. Book early, as rental cars in Hawaii can get very expensive if you leave it until the last minute.
- Best time to visit: April to June and September to November are the sweet spots. This time period usually means lower prices, fewer crowds, and good weather. Summer is busy and expensive. Winter brings whale season, but also more rain on some islands and cooler ocean temperatures. We found May to be a great overall time.
- Respect the land: Hawaii has strong cultural values around respecting nature. Don’t remove lava rocks or sand, stay on marked trails, and be mindful of local customs.
- Sunscreen: Hawaii has banned many chemical sunscreens to protect coral reefs. Use reef-safe mineral sunscreen, and don’t underestimate the sun, especially on hikes like Captain Cook.
Final Thoughts on Planning a Trip to the Big Island with Kids
Hawaii with kids is amazing, and the Big Island isn’t the type of Hawaii trip where you spend every day doing the same thing. One day you may be walking through volcanic craters, the next you’re snorkelling with sea turtles or watching the sunset above the clouds on Mauna Kea.
That variety is exactly what makes the island so memorable for families. It rewards travellers who are willing to explore a little further, wake up early for adventure days, and embrace the slower moments in between. While Maui and Oahu often get most of the attention for first-time Hawaii visitors, the Big Island is the place we continue thinking about long after we return home.
We hope our 5-day Big Island Itinerary, 7-day Big Island itinerary, 10-day Big Island itinerary, or 14-day Big Island itinerary helps you start planning how to spend your time there. If you can visit even longer, an extended Big Island family itinerary allows you to slow down further, enjoy more beach days, and discover hidden gems beyond the main highlights.
If your family enjoys nature, road trips, beaches, wildlife, and a little adventure mixed into each day, there’s a very good chance the Big Island will become your favourite Hawaiian island too.
If you found this Big Island itinerary helpful, feel free to pin it on Pinterest, save it for later, and share it with anyone else dreaming of a trip to Hawaii.
You don’t have to live in Hawaii – or even be Hawaiian – to embrace the Aloha Spirit.
Mark Ellman
