Big Island Day Trips
Epic adventures from your Island Goodes basecamp
Island Goodes' location near Hilo makes it the perfect base for exploring the Big Island. From active volcanoes to hidden waterfalls, here are our favorite day trips - all returning you to your comfortable room by evening.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Experience one of the world's most active volcanic areas. Walk through lava tubes, hike crater trails, and witness the raw power of creation at Kilauea.
Highlights
- Kilauea Iki Crater hike (4 miles)
- Thurston Lava Tube walk
- Chain of Craters Road scenic drive
- Jaggar Museum Overlook
- Steam Vents & Sulfur Banks
Tips from Your Hosts
- Start early - arrive by 8 AM to beat crowds
- Pack layers - summit is 4,000 feet and cooler
- Bring plenty of water and snacks
- Evening visits offer different views if crater is glowing
Hamakua Coast Waterfall Tour
Drive the scenic Hamakua Heritage Corridor past lush rainforest, historic towns, and some of Hawaii's most spectacular waterfalls.
Highlights
- Rainbow Falls (start point)
- Pe'epe'e Falls & Boiling Pots
- Akaka Falls (442 ft)
- Umauma Falls (3-tiered)
- Charming Honoka'a town
Tips from Your Hosts
- Go in the morning for best waterfall lighting
- Stop at Tex Drive In for malasadas
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- Continue to Waipio Valley Lookout if time permits
Kona Coffee Country
Cross the island to explore the famous Kona coffee belt. Tour farms, sample world-renowned brews, and enjoy the sunny Kona coast.
Highlights
- Greenwell Farms coffee tour
- Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation
- Kealakekua Bay snorkeling
- Captain Cook monument viewpoint
- Historic Kailua Village
Tips from Your Hosts
- Book farm tours in advance
- Buy beans direct - fresher and often cheaper
- Pack snorkel gear for Kealakekua Bay
- Have lunch at a local spot in Kailua-Kona
Waipio Valley Adventure
Visit the sacred Valley of the Kings with its 2,000-foot cliffs and Hawaii's tallest waterfall. The lookout alone is worth the trip.
Highlights
- Waipio Valley Lookout (stunning views)
- Hi'ilawe Falls (1,450 ft - visible from lookout)
- Honoka'a town for lunch
- Hawaiian Vanilla Company nearby
Tips from Your Hosts
- The lookout is easily accessible - no hike required
- You are no longer allowed to enter the valley floor without a guide
- Guided tours available for valley floor
- Pair with Hamakua Coast for full day
Mauna Kea Summit & Stargazing
Ascend to nearly 14,000 feet for world-class stargazing above 40% of Earth's atmosphere. Free astronomy programs nightly.
Highlights
- Sunset above the clouds
- Visitor Information Station (9,200 ft)
- Free stargazing program (6-10 PM)
- Observatory views (summit, 13,796 ft)
- Lake Waiau hike
Tips from Your Hosts
- Arrive early to acclimatize at Visitor Station
- Dress VERY warmly - temps can drop below freezing
- Don't visit if you have respiratory/heart issues
- 4WD required for summit, not for Visitor Station
South Point & Green Sand Beach
Journey to the southernmost point in the United States and hike to one of only four green sand beaches in the world.
Highlights
- Ka Lae (South Point) - southernmost USA
- Cliff jumping spot (for the brave!)
- Papakolea Green Sand Beach (2.5 mi hike)
- Punalu'u Black Sand Beach
- Sea turtles basking on beach
Tips from Your Hosts
- Bring LOTS of water for green sand hike
- Start hike early - no shade on trail
- Can hire local shuttle to green sand beach
- Don't touch or approach sea turtles
Day Trip Planning Tips
Rent a Car
A rental car is essential. Book early as cars can sell out, especially during peak season.
Start Early
Beat the crowds and afternoon weather by starting your adventures in the early morning.
Pack Smart
Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Island weather varies dramatically by elevation.
Gas Up
Fill up in Hilo before heading out. Gas stations can be sparse on some routes.
