Top 14 Free Activities on Big Island, Hawaii

Hawaii’s Big Island is the largest of the Hawaiian islands which, consequently, provides travelers with an extensive array of activities, both paid and free. The Big Island boasts more than 100 beaches and over 266 miles of coastline, complemented by numerous state parks, one national park, and two volcanoes. As visitors explore, they will find activities ranging from deep-sea fishing and ocean kayaking to hiking and star-gazing. Fortunately, many of the island’s best experiences come at no cost. Below are 14 of our favorite free things to do on the Big Island.

Explore ‘Akaka Falls State Park

‘Akaka Falls State Park, situated 13 miles north of Hilo above Honomu, features an easy and enjoyable footpath loop offering stunning views of the Kahuna and Akaka Falls. The 0.4-mile loop is accessible for most travelers, designating ‘Akaka as one of the most popular spots on the Big Island.

Sample Nuts at Hamakua Macadamia Nut Company

Address: 61-3251 Maluokalani St, Waimea, HI 96743, USA

Phone: +1 888-643-6688

Hamakua Macadamia Nut Company, located in Kawaihae, provides free tours and samples at its new factory store. The company cultivates, markets, and processes 100-percent Big Island macadamia nuts and other local specialties. More than 500 Hawaiian growers contribute to this thriving industry, with Hamakua committed to supporting local horticulturists.

Take in Striking Ocean Views at Ka Lae

Address: Kalae, Hawaii 96772, USA

Ka Lae, the southernmost point of the island, holds historical significance as the original landing site of Polynesians in Hawaii around 750 A.D. Registered as a National Historic Landmark District, it is a remarkable spot for ocean views and serves as a prominent geographic marker in the United States.

Watch Molten Lava at Kalapana Lava Viewing Area

The Kalapana Lava Viewing Area, located at the end of Highway 130 in the Puna District, provides an exhilarating location to witness molten lava. Due to constantly changing conditions, visitors should check the U.S. Geological Survey’s Hawaiian Volcano Observatory for updates on Kilauea Volcano eruptions before proceeding. The site is accessible daily from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m., but parking availability is limited after 8 p.m.

Picnic at Kalopa State Recreation Area

Address: 44-3480 Kalaniai Rd, Honokaa, HI 96727, USA

Kalopa State Recreation Area is situated off Highway 19 and features picnic areas, a simple nature trail leading through native ‘ohi’a forests, and additional hiking opportunities within the adjoining forest reserve. Located at an elevation of 2,000 feet, this cool and picturesque park boasts some of Hawaii’s rarest plants, including loulu palms and native Hawaiian hibiscus.

Visit a Sacrificial Temple at Kohala Historical Sites State Monument

Kohala Historical Sites State Monument, located off Highway 270 near ‘Upolu Airport, comprises two significant historical sites: Mo’okini Heiau, recognized as the most notable ancient sacrificial heiau (temple) in Hawaii, and Kamehameha’s Birth Place, a memorial to the chief who unified the islands.

Watch Traditional Bread-Baking

Address: 81-6551 Hawaiʻi Belt Rd, Kealakekua, HI 96750, USA

The Kona Historical Society practices traditional Portuguese bread baking every Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This communal oven can produce over 30 loaves at once, and once baked, the fresh bread is sold on a first-come, first-served basis.

Imagine Ancient Hawaiian Life at Lapakahi State Historical Park

Address: HI-270, Waimea, HI 96743, USA

Lapakahi State Historical Park, located off of Highway 270 about 12 miles north of Kawaihae, features the partially-restored remains of an ancient coastal settlement and fishing village. Visitors can observe home sites, burial sites, storage areas, and stone salt pans, once used to preserve fish. A one-mile self-guided walking tour is available, offering delightful views and perhaps a chance for a humpback whale sighting.

Look at Striking “Lava Trees”

Address: HI-132, Pāhoa, HI 96778, USA

Located off Pahoa-Pohoiki Road, Lava Tree State Monument features a forest of “lava trees,” formed from lava flows that shaped the area, leaving behind molds of tree trunks. Visitors can explore the site via a 3/4-mile walking trail, and picnic tables are available for those looking to linger a bit longer.

Stand Above the Clouds at Mauna Kea

Address: Mauna Kea Access Rd, Hawaii, USA

At the Visitors’ Information Station on Mauna Kea, informative displays detail the mountain’s astronomical observatories. Every evening of the year, including holidays, volunteer astronomy enthusiasts set up telescopes for a free stargazing program. The station is located at 9,200 feet, providing ample altitude for most visitors; adventurous souls can ascend to the summit at 14,000 feet.

Learn About Marine Life at the Mokupāpapa Discovery Center

Address: 76 Kamehameha Ave, Hilo, HI 96720, USA

The Mokupāpapa Discovery Center presents fascinating insights into marine life from the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument, one of the world’s most pristine ocean environments and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore scientific exhibits, a 2,500-gallon saltwater aquarium, and more.

Meet a White Bengal Tiger at Pana’ewa Rainforest Zoo

Address: 800 Stainback Hwy, Hilo, HI 96720, USA

Pana’ewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens spans over 12 acres located south of Hilo. The zoo features a white Bengal tiger named Namasté, who is fed daily at 3:30 PM, along with a children’s petting zoo available on Saturdays. Additionally, the zoo’s botanical gardens showcase more than 100 varieties of palm trees and various other plants.

Hike to the Puako Petroglyph Preserve

Address: 1 N Kaniku Dr, Waimea, HI 96743-9731, USA

The Puako Petroglyph Preserve, located off Highway 19 just north of the Fairmont Orchid, features a short hike leading to an impressive collection of over 3,000 petroglyphs. While the hike spans only 1.5 miles, the path lacks shade, and the lava can become hot; therefore, an early start is advisable.

Visit Hawaii’s Largest Temple at Pu’ukoholā

Address: 62-3601 Kawaihae Rd, Waimea, HI 96743-9720, USA

Pu’ukoholā National Historic Site represents Hawaii’s largest heiau (temple), built by Kamehameha I to honor the war god Ku. Following its completion, Kamehameha performed sacrificial rites and embarked on his mission to unify the Hawaiian Islands. This sacred structure, significant to the formation of the Hawaiian Kingdom, lies between Kohala Coast resorts and Kawaihae off Highway 270.