Searching for ways to save on your Big Island vacation? Of course you are! Luckily, there are plenty of free things to do on Big Island that will make activities and sightseeing a breeze.
This short hike is seriously stunning.
If you’re in the Hilo area, you can conveniently access Akaka Falls State Park as it’s just a short 13 miles away. Located along the Hamakua Coast, you can view two spectacular waterfalls on one short hike. An easy-to-hike paved footpath loops through a lush rainforest, leading you to the 100-foot Kahuna Falls and then the 442-feet Akaka Falls. There is a small fee of $1 for walk-ins and $5 for cars.
Image by freeimageslive.co.uk – photoeverywhere
2) Kalapana Lava Viewing Area
The Big Island is famous for its active volcano. If you want to see molten lava, the Kalapana Lava Viewing Area offers an excellent vantage point. Best of all, you can witness the hot lave gushing into the ocean, one of the must-see sights for any vacationer on the Big Island. Conditions change daily, so be sure to call the viewing hotline (808-961-8093) for up-to-date conditions during your trip.
3) Lava Tree State Park
It’s a fairly safe bet you’ve never seen a lava tree before. Don’t miss your chance to do so while on the Big Island. As one of the most unique free things to do on Big Island, the Lava Tree State Park, located off Pahoa-Pohoiki Road (less than three miles southeast of Pahoa), is a forest of lave trees to behold. What exactly are lava trees? Formed by a lava flow that swept through the area, the trees that are left are coated in thick lava. It’s a unique sight to behold.
Yelp/Em P.
4) Mokupapapa Discovery Center
Dive into discovery at the Mokupapapa Discovery Center, which offers free admission Tuesday through Saturday. The center highlights the diverse marine life of Papahanaumokuakea Marine Nation Monument, a pristine ocean environment that is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The best part of the center is the 2,500-gallon saltwater aquarium.
Mauna Kea, Neal Simpson / flickr
5) Mauna Kea
Rise to an elevation of 9,000 feet at Mauna Kea, the Big Island’s dormant volcano. At the Visitor Information Station, you can learn about the famous astronomical observatories. Plus, once evening begins volunteers bring out telescopes. You can gaze at the stars from this amazing vantage point for absolutely free.
6) Puukohola National Historic Site
One of th most interesting free things to do on Big Island for history buffs is up next. Experience Hawaii history first-hand at Puukohola. Hawaii’s largest heiau (temple) is located here and was built under the direction of King Kamehameha I. The founding of the Hawaiian Kingdom can be directly linked to this site, making it a true Kohala coast history lesson.
7) Panaewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens
Bring your family to explore this 12-acre rainforest zoo free of charge. Located just south of Hilo, lush botanical gardens with over 100 varieties of flora and fauna, a petting zoo and a White Bengal Tiger are available to enjoy at Panaewa Rainforest Zoo.
8) Wailuku River State Park
Another of the top-rated free things to do on the Big Island is visiting Wailuku River State Park. Why so? Well, it's home to the cascading waterfall known as Rainbow Falls. This natural sight is easy to see, as there's no hiking involved, making it a favorite of many. In addition, the 80-foot falls is famous for its misty rainbows. Be sure to visit in the mornings for the best chance of catching a rainbow at the falls!
Fun & Free Things to Do on Big Island
With this list, you'll be able to have an enjoyable time on the Big Island without spending a dime! Do you have any free favorites we missed? Tell us about them in the comments.