Written by Terrance Davis
Terrance writes for Private Homes Hawai’i, highlighting all of the best events, activities, and sites from around O’ahu and the Big Island.
There’s a lot to explore on Hawai’i’s Big Island. The archipelago’s largest and youngest island features over 4,000 square miles of natural beauty, sunshine, and beaches, acting as a home to 11 of the world’s 13 microclimates. The Big Island has a lot to offer, including large volcanic sights, manta ray snorkeling, and kayaking through bays; however, with an island this big, it can be tough to see everything. That’s why this blog will focus on some of the less talked-about aspects of the Big Island that make it an incredible escape for anyone looking to take a trip to an island paradise.
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In this Blog:
- Makalawena Beach
- Kaumana Caves
- Kalōpā State Recreation Area
- Hilo Farmers Market and Local Shops
Makalawena Beach
This secluded, but pristine beach lies on the Kona Coast and is marked by its scooped-out, crescent-shaped bay and beautiful white sand. What makes Makalawena Beach a hidden gem is the fact that it’s inaccessible by road, which keeps many visitors away. The beach sits inside Kekaha Kai State Park, and if you want to get there, there are two paths you can take. Trailhead #1 will see you take Highway 19 north of Kailua-Kona and Kona International Airport before seeing a dirt road south of the path to Kua Bay, between mile markers 88 and 89. If you’re in a 4-wheel drive vehicle, you can enter through the road to the gate and the small parking lot north of the beach. For Trailhead #2, you’ll also start on Highway 19 on the same path, but this time you’ll find the road to Mahai’ula Bay between the 90- and 91-mile markers before making it to the restrooms and picnic tables.
Kaumana Caves State Park
Grab some sturdy shoes and a flashlight and dive into a lava tube. Hilo’s Kuama Caves have no lights or walkways, making them a truly hidden gem. Climb down the metal ladder and explore the lava tube first created by the flow from Mauna Loa back in 1881. While you can travel too far into the hole, as the area sits within private property, the surrounding area and the cave itself make for a fun and quick marvel for you and your group to experience.
Kalōpā State Recreation Area
Located near the charming village of Honoka’a, this massive state park, while a bit tucked away, offers a true sense of solitude for visitors who decide to make the trip. Kalōpā State Park is covered in lush vegetation, much of which has been there since before Polynesians settled on Hawai’i. The park offers several trails, many of which intersect, giving you plenty of opportunities to create your own paths. If you plan to visit, remember to bring some water, as there are no water fountains at this park.
Hilo Farmer’s Market
Head over to Hilo, the Big Island’s largest city, and spend some time at the Hilo Farmers Market. This local favorite is open daily, but Wednesday and Saturday bring the biggest crowds, with more than 150 vendors selling fresh produce, tropical flowers, handmade goods, local snacks, and other island-made finds.
Plan Your Next Escape to Hawai’i!
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