6 day itinerary
Big Island Hawaii
Itinerary
The Big Island of Hawaii is a fantastic destination for families, with its stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and plenty of kid-friendly activities. Here’s a fun and engaging 6-day itinerary that balances adventure, relaxation, and exploration, perfect for you and your little ones!
Day 1: Arrival and Kona Exploration
Morning:
- Arrive at Kona International Airport. Pick up your rental car (a must for exploring the island!).
- Check into your family-friendly accommodation. Consider a resort with a pool or a vacation rental with kitchen facilities.
Afternoon:
- Head to . Kids will love learning about coffee farming and can even sample some delicious local brews (for the adults, of course!).
- Enjoy lunch at a local café. Try some poke or a plate lunch for a taste of local cuisine.
Evening:
- Stroll along . The kids can run around while you enjoy the beautiful sunset.
- Dinner at for some pizza and local brews (they have great non-alcoholic options for the kids too!).
Day 2: Snorkeling and Beach Day
Morning:
- Pack up for a day at . This is a fantastic spot for snorkeling, and the calm waters are perfect for kids. Rent gear if you don’t have your own!
Afternoon:
- Have a picnic lunch at the beach. Bring sandwiches, fruits, and snacks to keep everyone fueled for the day.
- After lunch, explore the . The kids will enjoy the cultural sites and the chance to learn about Hawaiian history.
Evening:
- Head back to your accommodation to freshen up.
- Dinner at for some fresh poke bowls or other local favorites.
Day 3: Volcano Adventure
Morning:
- Early breakfast and then drive to (about 2 hours from Kona). Make sure to stop at the visitor center for maps and information.
- Explore the and take a short hike on the . The kids will love seeing the steam vents and the unique volcanic landscape.
Afternoon:
- Have lunch at the park’s picnic area.
- Visit the for stunning views of the volcano and educational exhibits. Kids will be fascinated by the geology!
Evening:
- If the kids are up for it, stay for the volcano glow at night. It’s a magical experience! If not, head back to Kona for dinner.
Day 4: Waterfalls and Hilo
Morning:
- Drive to Hilo (about 1.5 hours from Kona). Stop at for a quick photo op. The kids will love the lush surroundings!
Afternoon:
- Visit the for a leisurely stroll and a picnic lunch. The gardens are beautiful and have plenty of space for kids to run around.
- Head to the (open on Wednesdays and Saturdays) for some local treats and crafts.
Evening:
- Dinner in Hilo at for some local plate lunches.
- Drive back to Kona, or if you prefer, stay overnight in Hilo to break up the drive.
Day 5: Beach and Cultural Day
Morning:
- Relax at . The unique black sand is a hit with kids, and they can play in the waves (just keep an eye on them!).
Afternoon:
- Visit the in Hilo. It’s free and has a variety of animals, including some native Hawaiian species. Perfect for a family outing!
- Have lunch at a local spot in Hilo.
Evening:
- Return to Kona and enjoy a luau experience at or another local venue. The kids will love the dancing, music, and delicious food!
Day 6: Relaxation and Departure
Morning:
- Spend your last morning at . It’s a great spot for swimming and building sandcastles.
- Grab breakfast at a nearby café.
Afternoon:
- Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance to visit the or do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs.
- Return your rental car and head to the airport for departure.
Tips for Traveling with Kids:
- Always have sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water on hand.
- Plan for downtime; kids can get tired with all the excitement!
- Be flexible with your plans; sometimes the best memories come from spontaneous adventures.
I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories on the Big Island! Enjoy your trip! 🌺🌊🌈
