The big island of Hawaii is home to some of the most amazing activities on the planet! Whether it is seeing the active volcanoes, exploring the impressive waterfalls, or simply watching whales on a cruise, there is an endless number of different things to do around the island. And the best part is, everyone in the family can join in on the fun! So to help fill your itinerary, this article is here with a list of top-rated activities for families visiting the big island!
Why The Big Island Is The Perfect Family Vacation Destination
The Big Island of Hawaii is an ideal vacation spot for families looking for more than just beaches and sunshine. Its expansive landscapes are dotted with stunning waterfalls, lush forests, and the world’s most active volcano, which offers awe-inspiring views of its immense power. Nature lovers can go on hikes throughout various climates ranging from temperate rainforest to tropical desert. The abundance of outdoor activities like camping, fishing, scuba diving, and surfing make it a perfect small adventure spot.
Seeking some educational fun? Then it’s off to explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park or visit Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historic Park to learn about the island’s rich cultural heritage. With its incredible mix of cultural experiences, fantastic nature-filled attractions, and relaxed atmosphere, The Big Island is sure to please everyone in your family.
Top-Rated Activities for Families Visiting Hawaii
Once you arrive on this tropical paradise of an island, the first thing you’ll be blown away by is its diversity. Whether it’s the secluded beaches, the dramatic mountain views, or the vast array of water activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of the top-rated activities for families visiting Hawaii:
Tour Lavaloha Chocolate Farm
Visiting the Lavaloha Chocolate Farm on the Big Island of Hawaii is a great way to spend special time with your family. You will be immersed in an incredible experience learning all about chocolate and how it is made – from bean to bar. It all starts with seeing the cocoa trees that line the path as you explore the tropical gardens of the farm. As you walk along, you will have a chance to observe how each cocoa pod is harvested by hand.
To top off the visit, your family can sample some of their delicious homemade chocolates and even customize their flavor concoction by adding different nuts, dried fruits, and flavoring ingredients. As a bonus, each member of your family will take home their custom creation to enjoy later! Touring Lavaloha Chocolate Farm will create amazing memories with your loved ones that will last a lifetime.
Swim With Dolphins At Dolphin Quest
Swimming with dolphins at Dolphin Quest on the Big Island of Hawaii is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that all family members can enjoy. It’s an incredible opportunity to witness these amazing creatures up close and to learn more about them as they play, swim, and show off their talents in their natural habitat. Even more special is the chance to engage with them through touching, playing, or even signing their names into a wet felt board and watching their response!
Each encounter is unique and often leads to lasting memories of your time together. Not only can you watch the dolphins at Dolphin Quest, but educational programs are available for all ages teaching about marine conservation and how everyone can help protect the ocean. With each visit, you and your family will come away feeling inspired about nature and awed by the majestic beauty of these incredible animals.
Hike Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is an incredible experience the whole family will never forget. From learning about the history of the Hawaiian islands to enjoying the lush terrain and exotic wildlife, a hike through this volcanic national park is an adventure like no other. It’s a chance to make memories that last a lifetime and to appreciate the natural beauty of these powerful volcanoes up close.
Although some more daunting hikes are available on the big island, hiking at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park with your children is an incredibly exciting opportunity to explore safely while creating one-of-a-kind family experiences.
Enjoy The Voyagers of the Pacific Luau
There’s no better way to enjoy a family vacation in Hawaii than by attending the Voyagers of the Pacific Luau on the Big Island. This traditional Polynesian feast offers delicious and unique Hawaiian fare and provides an insight into a culture steeped in solid values and traditions – something every family should take the time to experience. Local artisans will showcase their talents while authentic dances, songs, and stories transport you to another world.
Make sure not to miss the imu ceremony – an ancient tradition involving layers of banana leaves wrapping underground-cooked food items that are slowly revealed during a show-stopping stage moment. With an unforgettable night filled with delicious food and cultural learning, a luau at Voyagers of the Pacific is undoubtedly an activity all members of your family can enjoy!
Stroll Through The Pana’ewa Rainforest Zoo
Visiting Pana’ewa Rainforest Zoo on the Big Island of Hawaii with your family can be a memorable and unique experience. It’s not just any zoo – it is the only natural tropical rainforest zoo in a U.S. state! With 1,200 wild animals of more than 80 species, you’ll have plenty to explore and see while enjoying the fresh Hawaiian air. The zoo is open every day from 10 am to 3 pm, so you can choose when to visit and make the most out of your time as a family.
You may even catch educational shows at The Plantation Gardens Theater or discover something new at the Manukaki Aviary, where many species of beautiful rare birds call home. Not only will you get to spend quality time together outdoors, but you will also learn about different animals in the rainforest habitat – an experience that your whole family can enjoy and treasure for years afterward.
Visit Rainbow Falls
Nothing quite compares to the breathtaking beauty of Hawaii’s Rainbow Falls. Located on the Big Island, it’s an amazing sight that instantly draws visitors in with its lush foliage, providing the perfect backdrop for a family vacation. With bright rainbows reflecting off the glittering water and crashing down 80 feet below, it’s an awe-inspiring experience that can bring people closer together and provide lifelong memories.
Although no swimming or wading is allowed due to strong currents, venturing along the hiking trails or simply admiring from afar creates lasting impressions of a destination even more beautiful than words can properly describe. A visit to Rainbow Falls ensures that your family will take home unforgettable memories and a deeper understanding of the majestic wonders in Hawaii’s heart.
Enjoy Some Of The Amazing Activities For Families On The Big Island!
Whether you want to explore the beautiful natural landscapes of Hawaii or dive into the local culture, a family vacation on the Big Island offers something for everyone. Whether you hike through the stunning volcanoes or attend an unforgettable luau, there is no shortage of incredible activities for families waiting for you and your loved ones. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip to the Big Island today, and start creating memories that will last a lifetime!