From stretches of soft white sand and black volcanic coastlines to a rare green sand beach, Hawaiʻi Island is home to some of the most unique and diverse beaches in the world. Here, you can witness how ongoing volcanic activity continues to shape the island’s ever-evolving shoreline. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly swimming spots or […]
Situated about a 30-minute drive south of Hilo, the community in and around Pāhoa on Hawaiʻi Island boasts eclectic vibes and unique energy. Here, homesteaders farm and live off the land alongside neighborhoods of eco-villages and communes. They’re a strong and resourceful bunch, as many live in the area designated as Lava Zone 1, the
Most visitors to Hawai‘i Island know the Keaukaha area for its beautiful lava rock beaches, its spectacular sunrise views, and the bustling Port of Hilo. It’s no surprise that this coastal shoreline, with access not only to the ocean but also an abundance of freshwater springs, holds significant cultural and historical value. Today, Keaukaha is a common gathering place for
The vastness of Hawai‘i Island has always felt like uncharted territory to me. It’s the Big Island, after all, nearly twice as large as all the other Hawaiian Islands combined. I’ve traveled there numerous times, visiting Kailua-Kona on the west side, Waimea up north and Hilo on the east side. But I’ve never ventured far beyond those towns. In the last few
Waimea is widely talked about for its paniolo culture, but its neighbor in the east, Honoka‘a, deserves attention, too. The historic town is situated on the Hāmākua Coast and shares some of its neighbor’s rugged charm while boasting its own distinct and endearing qualities. Throughout town are relics showcasing the lasting contributions of immigrants who
*This story was updated on Dec. 24, 2025. A year ago on Dec. 23, 2024, one of the world’s most active volcanoes awoke. That morning, lava fountains spewed from a line of fissures at the base of the summit caldera. Declared episode one, the event was only a prelude to a series of dramatic eruptions at Kīlauea in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Prior to that, the
People travel thousands of miles to reach Hawaiʻi—one of the most isolated landmasses on Earth. Its eight main islands help form a 1,500-mile archipelago, the longest island chain in the world. Aptly nicknamed, the Big Island is the largest of Hawaiʻi’s islands and home to one of the most varied climate ranges anywhere. The island itself
Hawaiʻi Island isn’t my usual go-to for island hopping, but when a friend who once called it home invited me along, I couldn’t resist the chance to see the place through his local perspective. Whether you’re planning a long weekend getaway or a quick staycation, here’s how to experience the best of the Big Island
While it shares its name with the canyon on Kauaʻi and the bay and valley on Oʻahu, the town of Waimea on Hawaiʻi Island stands apart in a delightful way. Located toward the northern tip of the Big Island, Waimea is unlike any other town on the Big Island—and it’s one of my favorites to
*This story was originally published on Jan. 22, 2019, and updated in September 2025. It’s early on a Thursday morning, the sun is just beginning to rise over North Kohala and I’m staring up at the king himself. Standing regally with his right arm outstretched, the King Kamehameha statue looks out over the small
With its sunny weather, world-renowned coffee and rich history, region marked by fields of lava rock formations and, offshore, crystal clear waters. It’s also home to the community of Kailua-Kona, where the annual Ironman World Championship takes place. On Oct. 11, nearly 3,000 of the best triathletes in the world will take on the iconic
