It should come as no surprise that there are numerous things to do in Hawaii. The most popular island in the state is the Big Island, which offers some of the most fantastic sights of all the main islands. From active volcanoes, to vast Kona coffee plantations, art galleries, farmers markets, and even exclusive black sand beaches formed by eroded magma from underground volcanoes. If you find yourself on your way to the Big Island, perhaps this top ten list of Hawaii tourist attractions will better help you to decide how to spend your time when in this truly exceptional tropical paradise in the pacific.
Waipio Valley: At the tip of the northern Hamakua Coast you will find this plush, serene and relatively untouched valley that is truly a spectacle for the eyes. This amazing valley was the home to the famed Hawaiian King Kamehameha during his youth, appropriately dubbed "The Valley of the Kings." This one mile wide and five mile deep valley features amazing cliffs that rise nearly 2,000 feet into the sky, many with natural waterfalls cascading down them, including the largest waterfall on the Big Island, Hiilawe Falls, which drops an impressive 1,300 feet.
Puuhonua O Hanaunau National Historical Park: This 180-acre national historic park features the lush, tropical landscape that has made this state famous and boasts hundreds of scared historical sites. History and legend has it that this place was where lawbreakers sought refuge during the ancient times. Notable landmarks to visit include the ancient Great Wall, Fierce kii, and the Hale o Keawe Heiau (a temple that holds the remains of the most famous Hawaiian chieftains).
Hilo Art Galleries: Some of the world's best known living artists live in Hawaii on the Big Island and display and sell their art in the many galleries in Hilo. Notable locations to see when you travel to Hawaii include: Chase Gallery (glass art), Grove Gallery (localized arts, crafts and paintings), and the many other galleries that span Grove Gallery in Hilo Bay.
Hilo Farmer's Market: Fashioned after the Great Markets of ancient civilizations, this is one of the largest markets in Hawaii. With more than 200 different vendors selling wares from t-shirts and produce to etched glass and arts and crafts, there is something here for everybody; especially great for bringing back keepsakes and gifts for friends and family members.
Kona Coffee Plantations: One of the rarest and also the most expensive gourmet coffees in the world - Kona - is grown on the Big Island. Visiting the plantations where they are grown is a great way to experience Hawaiian culture at its finest. With more than 600 different plantations in this state, take some time stop by and see how the best coffee in the world is harvested; don't forget to drink a hot cup while you are there.
Samuel Spencer Beach Park: One of the primary reasons why many people travel to Hawaii is because of the vast spreads of pristine beaches and white sand that surround the island. One of the best tourist attractions in Hawaii is the Samuel Spencer Beach Park, one of the most popular beaches in the state. During the summer months it can be quite crowded. Don't forget suntan lotion, shades and bottled water, or a handy beach towel.
Punaluu Black Sand Beach: Perhaps the most famous black sand beach in the entire state, Panaluu is truly one-of-a-kind. Thousands of years of active volcanoes helped to forge this amazing beach, which features black sand from eroded magma that has washed up on shore over thousands of years.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Featuring more than 333,000 acres of preserved national park that offers more than 150 miles of hiking trails and several museums, this is an absolute must-see destination when you travel to Hawaii. Explore the most breathtaking landscape that the state has to offer, from scorched deserts and craters forged by hot magma, to Kilauea-an active volcano that spews out 250,000-650,000 cubic yards of lava per day.
Akaka Falls State Park: Towards the northern side of Hamakua Coast you will find this gem of a state park. Experience hiking through a real tropical rainforest and witness the Akaka Falls, which drops down nearly 500 feet, one of the largest waterfalls on the Big Island.
King Kemehameha and his 4 Statues: King Kamehameha was a warrior king responsible for unifying the islands during the early 1800s. Dozens of local legends and folklore surround the tales of this king, whose four statues are scattered amongst the Hawaiian islands to watch over them.
When it comes to Hawaii travel, it is often difficult to decide on which island that you want to visit, and where you are going to stay, and what you are going to do once you are there. With so many things to do in Hawaii, the most difficult part of your trip might just be deciding which to do first.
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