3 day itinerary
Big Island, Hawaii
Personalized with:Make it family friendly
Itinerary
The Big Island of Hawaii is a fantastic destination for families, with its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and plenty of activities that everyone can enjoy. Here’s a fun and family-friendly 3-day itinerary that will help you make the most of your time on the island!
Day 1: Explore the Natural Wonders
Morning:
- Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café in Kailua-Kona. Try some delicious Hawaiian pancakes or a loco moco!
- Visit : Head to the park (about a 2-hour drive from Kona). Make sure to stop by the to get maps and information. The park is full of family-friendly trails, like the Kīlauea Iki Trail, which is about 4 miles round trip and offers stunning views of the crater.
Afternoon:
- Picnic Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the park’s scenic spots. There are picnic tables available, and it’s a great way to refuel for the afternoon adventures.
- Explore : After lunch, take a drive along . Stop at the various overlooks, like the and the , where you can see steam rising from the ground!
Evening:
- Dinner in Hilo: Head to Hilo for dinner. Try a family-friendly restaurant like , known for its plate lunches.
- Stargazing at : If the kids are up for it, drive up to for some stargazing. The summit is one of the best places in the world to see the stars, and there are often ranger-led programs.
Day 2: Beach Day and Cultural Experiences
Morning:
- Breakfast at Your Accommodation: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or vacation rental.
- Visit : Head to Punalu’u Beach, famous for its black sand and sea turtles! It’s a great spot for the kids to play and explore. Just remind them to keep a safe distance from the turtles.
Afternoon:
- Lunch at a Local Food Truck: Grab lunch from one of the food trucks nearby. You can find delicious poke bowls or plate lunches that the whole family will love.
- Visit the : After lunch, explore this sacred place of refuge. The kids will enjoy the cultural demonstrations, and you can learn about Hawaiian history and traditions.
Evening:
- Dinner in Kailua-Kona: Head back to Kailua-Kona for dinner. Try a family-friendly spot like , where you can enjoy pizza and local brews (for the adults, of course!).
- Sunset at : After dinner, take a stroll along and enjoy the beautiful sunset. It’s a perfect way to end the day!
Day 3: Adventure and Relaxation
Morning:
- Breakfast at a Local Diner: Start your day with breakfast at a local diner. Try some fresh fruit and acai bowls to fuel up for the day!
- Snorkeling at : Head to for some snorkeling. The waters are calm and clear, making it perfect for families. You can rent gear nearby or join a guided tour. Keep an eye out for colorful fish and maybe even some dolphins!
Afternoon:
- Lunch at a Beachside Café: After snorkeling, enjoy lunch at a beachside café. Fresh fish tacos are a must-try!
- Visit the : Learn about the coffee-making process and enjoy some samples. The kids will love the farm animals, and it’s a great way to experience local culture.
Evening:
- Dinner at a : For your last night, consider attending a family-friendly luau. It’s a fun way to experience Hawaiian culture with traditional food, music, and hula dancing. Many resorts offer luaus, so check for availability!
- Relax and Reflect: After the luau, take a moment to relax and reflect on your amazing trip. Maybe grab some ice cream to enjoy while you reminisce about your adventures!
Tips:
- Pack Sunscreen: The sun can be strong, so make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen and hats for the family.
- Stay Hydrated: Keep water bottles handy, especially during hikes and beach days.
- Check for Local Events: Depending on when you visit, there may be local festivals or events that could be fun to attend!
I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories with your family on the Big Island! Enjoy your trip! 🌺🌊🌴