7 Day Itinerary Big Island Hawaii: Guide to Making Big Memories in the Big Island

If you think Hawaii’s Big Island is just lava and leis, think again. This isn’t your breezy beach vacay with a side of pineapple. This is Jurassic Park-meets-outer space, where you can sip world-famous Kona coffee while standing on an active volcano—and still make it to a manta ray night swim by sundown. Over seven packed-but-balanced days, you’ll encounter every climate, color, and crater this island has to offer.

So, start by renting a car (non-negotiable), throw on a playlist of ’90s bangers, and get ready for a week of family-friendly, snack-bribery-approved adventure.

Day 1: Arrival & Relaxation

Kick off your Big Island adventure with an easy arrival at Kona International Airport. After a long 6+ hour flight, take it slow—grab your bags and head to your hotel to ease into your trip.

Where to Stay: Royal Kona Resort

Stay at the Royal Kona Resort in Kailua-Kona, right on the oceanfront. The rooms have a modern coastal vibe and come with balconies or patios, coffee makers, and mini-fridges. The resort offers a private beach cove, a saltwater lagoon that’s perfect for beginner snorkeling, a pool, tennis courts, a fitness center, and spa services.

You can also join Hawaiian cultural activities and enjoy oceanside dining at Don the Beachcomber Restaurant, famous for its tropical drinks and amazing sunset views.

Casual Lunch or Early Dinner

Visit Punaluʻu Bake Shop, the southernmost bakery in the U.S., for a casual meal. They’ve got kid-friendly sandwiches, delicious malasadas (Hawaiian sweet donuts), and refreshing tropical drinks—perfect for an easy, laid-back stop.

Optional Activity: Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation

Check out Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation, sitting 3,200 feet up on Hualalai’s slopes. This eco-friendly, family-run farm uses sheep to care for their crops. You can take a free guided tour, learn all about Kona coffee, try some organic brews, and even walk a short nature trail that leads to a lava tube. It’s an easy, fun outing for both families and coffee fans.

Note for Families: This outing is easy and enjoyable for families and coffee fans, but little kids might find the coffee tour less engaging unless they like animals (there are often chickens, cats, and sheep around the property) or enjoy easy nature walks.

Restful Evening

Head back to the Royal Kona Resort to relax, soak in the ocean views, and gear up for the adventures ahead.

Day 2: Beaches & Manta Ray Night Snorkel

Hapuna Beach is one of the Big Island’s biggest white sand beaches.

It has everything you need for a chill day—lifeguards, restrooms, and plenty of shade. The calm waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, so it’s a great spot for families to enjoy.

Green Sand Beach (Papakōlea): For the adventurous traveler, take a detour to Green Sand Beach, famous for its rare olivine-colored sand. Reach this unique spot with a 2.5-mile hike each way or hop on a 4×4 shuttle for a quicker trip. The hike is rewarding but can be tough, so it’s best for those without small children.

⚠️ Strong Caution: Green Sand Beach is a stunning but remote spot that’s better suited for families with older kids or teens. The 2.5-mile hike (each way) is long, hot, and unshaded, and there are no restrooms or safety amenities. If you’re traveling with toddlers or younger children, consider skipping this one in favor of more family-friendly beaches like Hapuna or Waialea.

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7 Day Itinerary Big Island Pro Tip: Bring plenty of water, sturdy shoes, and sunscreen. The area is remote, so plan for a safe and enjoyable visit.

Manta Ray Night Snorkel: End your day with a once-in-a-lifetime experience—snorkeling with giant manta rays under the stars. The Night Manta Ray Snorkel from Keauhou Harbor offers guided tours that use underwater lights to attract these gentle creatures, giving you an up-close view of their graceful movements.

Confident swimmers can dive in, while non-swimmers or younger kids can watch from floating rafts. It’s an unforgettable adventure and the perfect way to wrap up your Big Island day.

Where to Stay: You might want to stay close by at a hotel or resort like Aston Kona by the Sea, where you’ll have convenient access to night snorkeling tours and other local adventures.

Day 3: History, Kayaking & Local Flavors

Kealakekua Bay is a must-visit destination on the Big Island, offering a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Known for its connection to Captain Cook and thriving marine life, it’s the perfect spot for unforgettable adventures both on and off the water.

Captain Cook Monument Kayak & Snorkel: Paddle across Kealakekua Bay to the famous Captain Cook Monument, one of Hawaii’s top snorkeling spots. The crystal-clear waters are home to vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, making it ideal for underwater exploration. Since hiking to the monument requires a permit, booking a guided kayak tour is the easiest and most rewarding way to experience it.

• Pro Tip: Bring a waterproof phone case or camera to capture the incredible views and marine life.

Historical Kona Dinner Cruise: For a unique way to experience Kealakekua Bay, hop aboard a Historical Kona Dinner Cruise. Enjoy a relaxing evening on the water as you learn about the rich history of the area, including Captain Cook’s journey. Savor a delicious dinner while taking in the stunning sunset views over the bay—an unforgettable experience for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

South Kona Snack Crawl: After exploring the bay, head to Captain Cook town for a snack crawl. Indulge in local flavors at food trucks and small eateries, with highlights like Rebel Kitchen, famous for its burgers and tacos with a Hawaiian twist.

Related Post: Best Kealakekua Bay Snorkeling Tour – 7 Ways to Save Up to 12% Off

Hula Show: Wrap up your day with an unforgettable experience at the Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa. Enjoy an evening immersed in Hawaiian culture with traditional hula dance and music performances, offering a relaxing and enriching way to end your Big Island adventure.

The luau takes place every Monday and Thursday evening, with check-in starting at 5:00 PM, local craft demonstrations from 5:30 PM, dinner around 6:15 PM, and the main show beginning at 6:45 PM; the event lasts about 2–3 hours.

Pricing is family-friendly: children ages 6–12 start at $87.50 for general seating and $105 for private seating near the stage, while adults are $175 and $210 respectively (children 5 and under are free). The dinner menu features Hawaiian favorites like kalua pork, fresh local fish, taro rolls, and desserts such as malasadas or haupia, with options for special dietary needs upon request.

Day 4: Mauna Kea & Kona Market (or Volcano Village)

Kona Farmers Market: Start your morning at the Kona Farmers Market, where you’ll discover tropical fruits, handmade crafts, and local snacks. It’s the perfect spot to soak up the vibrant local atmosphere and pick up unique souvenirs to remember your trip.

Mauna Kea Scenic Drive, Summit & Stars Adventure: Spend your afternoon taking in the stunning views along the Mauna Kea Scenic Drive. Stop at the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station at 9,200 feet for astronomy talks and telescope viewing.

For something truly unforgettable, join the Big Island Mauna Kea Summit & Stars Adventure—a guided tour that includes stargazing and a trip to the summit at 13,796 feet. You’ll catch an incredible sunset and enjoy some of the clearest skies for stargazing.

Island Lava Java – Kailua-Kona: End your day with a relaxing, family-friendly dinner at Island Lava Java. Treat yourself to coconut pancakes or grilled fish tacos while taking in breathtaking ocean views. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and recharge after a busy day of adventure.

Optional Activity: Check out Volcano Village and take a day trip to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park—an absolute must-see on the island. Drive along Chain of Craters Road to take in epic volcanic landscapes and breathtaking views of hardened lava flows. Be sure to visit the Thurston Lava Tube, an incredible lava-formed tunnel with a super-easy trail that lets you walk right through this natural marvel.

7 Day Itinerary Big Island Pro Tip: Mauna Kea’s summit is not recommended for children under 13 due to the risks associated with high altitude. If you’re traveling with little ones, Volcano Village and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park offer a much more family-friendly experience, with accessible trails, fascinating sights, and plenty to keep kids engaged and safe.

Day 5: Relax & Explore The Kohala Coast

The Hilton Waikoloa Village is where relaxation meets adventure on the breathtaking Kohala Coast.

With oceanfront views, a saltwater lagoon, and plenty of family-friendly perks, it’s the perfect spot to dive into everything the Big Island has to offer.

Natural Saltwater Lagoon & Cultural Activities: Start your day exploring Hilton Waikoloa Village’s expansive grounds, featuring a saltwater lagoon where you can spot sea turtles, multiple pools with a 175-foot water slide, and a children’s beach area. Dive into Hawaiian culture with daily lei making, hula lessons, or ukulele classes. For a memorable experience, book a Dolphin Quest swim to interact with dolphins in a natural seawater habitat.

Anaehoʻomalu Bay Adventures: A short drive away, Anaehoʻomalu Bay (A Bay) offers calm waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. Explore ancient Hawaiian fishponds shaded by palm trees and try outrigger canoe paddling with the Waikoloa Canoe Club. On-site rentals make it easy to enjoy the bay’s activities.

If you’re looking for a farm-to-table experience, check out Napua at Mauna Lani Beach Club. It’s only 10 minutes away and offers an amazing oceanfront lunch spot.

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Waialea Bay Beach Park: Waialea Bay is just a quick 15-minute drive from the resort and perfect for an afternoon escape. With its soft white sand and clear waters, it’s ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or just kicking back and soaking in the beautiful views. You’ll also find restrooms, showers, and picnic spots to make your visit easy and comfortable.

Legends of Hawaii Luau: Wrap up your day with the Legends of Hawaii Luau at Hilton Waikoloa Village. Spend the evening in the hotel and immersed in Hawaiian culture with live music, hula dancing, and fire performances, all while enjoying a delicious buffet of island-inspired cuisine. Plus, you’ll get to soak in breathtaking sunset views—it’s an experience you won’t forget.

Day 6: Kona’s Ocean Adventures & Whale Watching

The Kona Coast offers a mix of adventure, marine life, and serene sunsets. From pristine snorkeling spots to seasonal whale watching, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on Hawaii’s Big Island.

Rainbow Falls Morning Visit: Kick off your day at Rainbow Falls, one of the most stunning spots in Hilo. This 80-foot waterfall creates gorgeous rainbows in the morning mist—perfect for photos and a great start to your Big Island adventures.

Kona Morning Super-Raft Snorkeling Experience: Have unforgettable Kona Morning Super-Raft Snorkeling adventure. Explore stunning locations like Kealakekua Bay or Honaunau (Two Step), where you can swim among vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and even spot dolphins in their natural habitat. This 3–4 hour tour includes snorkel gear, snacks, and expert guides to ensure an incredible experience from start to finish.

Kona Snorkeling & Sailing with Lunch: Get ready for the ultimate Kona experience with the Kona Snorkeling & Sailing with Lunch tour. Cruise the beautiful Kona coastline, kick back on shaded decks, and enjoy a tasty lunch buffet onboard. Jump into clear waters to snorkel at amazing spots, or try out fun, family-friendly activities like waterslides and paddle boards.

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• 7 Day Itinerary Big Island Pro Tip: Don’t forget sunscreen and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated between snorkeling sessions.
• Seasonal Whale Watching Cruise: If you’re heading here between December and April, don’t miss the chance to go on a Whale Watching Cruise with Body Glove Hawaii. These 2.5–3 hour tours leave from Kailua Pier and give you amazing views of humpback whales breaching. Plus, expert naturalists are on board to share cool facts, making it an unforgettable and insightful experience.

Sunset Stroll & Seaside Dinner: Wrap up your day with a walk along Aliʻi Drive, checking out local shops and grabbing dinner at Island Lava Java or Huggo’s. Watch the sunset and soak in the beauty of Hawaii after a day full of adventure. End it all with a stay at the Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel—comfortable, convenient, and right by the ocean.

Day 7: Private Charters & Hotel Night Vibes

Private Kealakekua Snorkel & Kona Coast Adventure: Discover the stunning Kealakekua Bay with a Private Boat Charter: Kealakekua Bay Snorkel and Kona Coast Adventure. Swim through clear waters, take in the beauty of the Kona Coast, and uncover hidden sea caves or secluded beaches. With full flexibility, it’s an ideal getaway for families or small groups to explore at their own speed.

Kailua-Kona Lunch & Leisure: Once your morning adventure wraps up, make your way to Kailua-Kona for lunch. You can enjoy fresh poke at Umekes Fish Market Bar & Grill or grab a craft beer and pizza at Kona Brewing Co. Afterward, take it easy at Kamakahonu Beach—perfect for a swim or some paddle boarding.

Kona’s Culture: Spend your afternoon wandering the historic spots along Aliʻi Drive. Don’t miss the Huliheʻe Palace, once a royal getaway, and Mokuaikaua Church, the oldest Christian church in Hawaii.

Dinner & Beachfront Stroll: End your day with a delicious dinner at the Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel. Savor fresh, local Hawaiian flavors like poke bowls and grilled mahi-mahi.

Afterward, join a traditional Hawaiian luau hosted at the hotel. Experience live music, hula dancing, and a feast that celebrates the island’s rich culture. Or, enjoy a peaceful beachfront stroll or relax by the hotel pool, where the ocean breeze and gentle waves set the mood. It’s the perfect spot for stargazing and unwinding as you reflect on your Big Island adventures.

Common FAQs on 7 Day Itinerary Big Island

Your Big Island Glow-Up: 7 Day Itinerary Big Island

In just 7 days, you’ve road-tripped through lava lands, swim with manta rays, and collected more “Did that really happen?” moments than your phone storage can handle.

Whether you stayed in a jungle bungalow or beachside resort, this Hawaii Big Island 7 day itinerary serves up magic, mayhem, and moments you’ll be quoting on the flight home. You’ve visited the Big Island’s most iconic destinations and created memories that will last a lifetime.

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