Hawaii's Big Island is often overlooked for the smaller islands of Oahu or Maui.
Travelers will often head to Maui, to indulge in a little luxury among one of its many beach resorts.
Oahu is home to the capital of Honolulu, where anyone interested can learn more about the recent history of the USA's 50th state.
If you plan on heading out to Hawaii, you can easily find your ideal accommodation through Big Island Vacation Rentals.
And if you're after it, you'll be able to find adventure on the Big Island of Hawaii. These are just some of the activities worth doing next time you pay the island state a visit.
Manta Ray Diving
Hawaii is a popular destination for diving enthusiasts – and for a good reason!
The coral reefs here account for around 85 percent of all present in the United States.
About one-fourth of the plants, fish, and invertebrates that call the Hawaiian coral reef home, can't be found anywhere else on the planet.
One massive drawcard for divers is the presence of Manta Rays in the waters around the islands. The Kona coast is home to more than 200 of these gentle, 16-foot long giants.
Diving isn't the only option – it's possible to see these creatures (among many others that live in the coral reefs around the island) from a snorkeler's perspective, too.
Hiking the Fields of Lava
The Big Island was formed as the result of eruptions from five separate volcanos. Of these volcanos, Kohala is now extinct and Mauna Kea dormant, but there are three other bad boys who are still apt to cause trouble. Particularly Kilauea, the worst behaved of the bunch. Its been erupting continuously for the last 30 years.
Hiking enthusiasts can rise to the challenge of tackling the trails that trek through the fields of lava. There are more than 150 miles worth of path intended for hikers within the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Anyone up for the challenge can go for a day hike through the volcanic fields, to watch the lava flow into the sea in Kalapana. Awe inspiring, or what?
Go Kayaking or Canoeing
Kealakekua Bay on the Big Island's Kona side is a popular area for kayaking. You can paddle straight across the bay to the James Cook monument. One of Britain's most famous explorers, he met his end on the shores of this beach.
From your kayak, you'll witness miles of uncrowded coastline, filled with secluded coves and deserted beaches. You can pull ashore for a peaceful picnic, snorkel among the coral reefs or frolic in the clear blue waters of the island's pristine coastline.
Hang Ten on a Surfboard
Is it possible to make a trip out to the Big Island without trying your hand (or foot, as it may be) at surfing? I'm not sure, myself!
At the very least, you can watch experienced surfers from the shore – but why not give the “Sport of Kings” a go for yourself and take an hour long surfing lesson.
Pine Trees Beach and Kahaluu Beach are each suitable for beginner surfers.
Don't forget to either wear a rash shirt or cover yourself in sunscreen, lest you end up with a very painful reminder of your first attempt to surf.
Have you been to the Big Island in Hawaii? What did you enjoy most from your time there?
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This story was brought to you in partnership with Luxury Retreats.
Planning a trip? Go Backpacking uses and recommends:
- G Adventures for small group tours
- Skyscanner for researching flights
- Hostelworld for booking hostels
- Airbnb for renting rooms and homes
- Rail Europe for train passes
- World Nomads for travel insurance
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The turtle is sooo cool :)
Hawaii is such a great place for adventure – hopefully, visitors do more than just lie on a beach. Hopefully, you were able to try your hand at surfing.
Ha, I do have to say I am a big fan of lying on the beach, though! Especially with a good book in hand. ;-)