The Big Island offers an impressive array of beauty and activities, including some of the most stunning natural wonders in the world. From botanical gardens filled with lush green rainforests to spectacular volcanic peaks rising above aquamarine waters to unique beaches boasting hundreds of endangered species, there are plenty of adventures on Hawaii’s largest island. In this guide, you will look at some of Hawaii’s natural wonders and what makes them truly special. By the end, you’ll be ready to explore the Big Island and experience its many attractions firsthand.
What Makes Hawaii’s Natural Environment So Unique?
Hawaii is a place like no other; its natural beauty has been the envy of travelers worldwide. From cascading waterfalls and vibrant coral reefs to lush valleys and majestic volcanoes, it is no surprise that Hawaii’s unique natural environment has been so well-appreciated. The land formations on the islands have resulted in various habitats, ranging from rainforests to alpine climates – each offering something special to explore.
What many people find so remarkable about Hawaii’s environment is its vision of perfection: beaches are lined with palm trees, waterfalls serve as backdrops framed by lush forests, and dramatic volcanoes look across miles of ocean. Additionally, the diversity of marine life here stretches far beyond what most visitors could imagine; visitors can spot countless creatures swimming in almost every color imaginable!
Hawaii’s Natural Wonders On The Big Island
While every island in Hawaii offers its special brand of beauty, the Big Island stands out for its incredible variety of natural wonders. From stunning beaches to lush rainforests, visitors can explore various environments in one place.
Hi’ilawe Falls
Hi’ilawe Falls is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders of the world. Offering visitors a spectacular 200 feet drop into Waipiʻo Valley below, Hi’ilawe is renowned for its stunning power and beauty. Its usual crystal clear soaring against a wall of lush green is adeptly complemented by nearby colorful tropical flowers and vegetation, making it an unforgettable sight.
Home to Hawaiian culture and filled with stories of drama and inspiration, Hi’ilawe Falls offers a unique opportunity to experience an ancient land untouched by today’s modern world. It is an escape into the paradise that you will never forget.
Mauna Loa
The Island of Hawaii is renowned for its stunning beauty and lush landscapes, but many people need to realize that it is home to the largest active volcano on Earth – the majestic Mauna Loa. This incredible mountain stretches out over 19,000 feet above sea level, and stands watch over the entire island, reminding us of nature’s incredible power.
Its sheer size and might are unmatched, and a trip to Mauna Loa is often an unforgettable experience. Visitors can stand in awe of this powerful force of nature from the summit’s breathtaking views to explore its rugged terrain.
Punalu’u Black Sand Beach
Punalu’u Black Sand Beach is one of the most notable natural wonders you will find here. From a distance, it appears as if the beach has been colored inky black by some unknown force, but travelers who “take the plunge” and step onto the shoreline quickly discover that this seemingly unusual hue is due to the presence of volcanic rock fragments.
Although lava rock may make up much of these waters, visitors are sure to be delighted by the abundance of sea turtles which gather in its warm waters – a welcomed sight, especially after an adventurous journey to get here. After a long day of exploring, Punalu’u is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Ka Lae (South Point)
Ka Lae (South Point) is an iconic spot on the big island’s southwest tip. Known as “the southernmost point in the United States,” this unique geographical feature holds a special place in Hawaiian culture and history. In addition to its natural beauty, visiting South Point is a chance to explore ancient cultural practices. The area is home to numerous cultural sites, such as a reconstructed heiau (Hawaiian temple) built around 400-600 A.D. Visitors are invited to explore these ancient structures and understand more about traditional Hawaiian culture.
Even outside of its archaeological significance, Ka Lae is a stunning sight. From the towering cliffs of Pu’u Kaua and the gorgeous rolling hills to the panoramic views of huge ocean waves crashing onshore, South Point offers visitors a truly unforgettable experience.
Waipio Valley
Waipio Valley is a place of unrivaled beauty and vast cultural significance. Nestled in the lush Kohala Mountains, the valley was once home to hundreds of ancient Hawaiians drawn there by its remarkable storybook landscape and bountiful resources. Today, visitors come to admire its breathtakingly majestic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, black sand beaches, and flourishing tropical forest, which all help make Waipio Valley one of the most spectacular natural wonders in the entire state.
As you take in the sublime serenity of this special valley, it’s almost impossible not to be filled with awe at the beauty that nature can create. Even the most seasoned traveler will be captivated by Waipio Valley’s stunning beauty and remarkable history.
Papakolea Green Sand Beach
Papakolea Green Sand Beach is a gorgeous spot on the island’s southeastern coast. This beach is unique in its own right because of its beautiful green-tinted sand, which comes from Hawaii’s volcanic eruptions. Along the oceanfront, visitors will be delighted by the coves and tide pools that facilitate a unique beach experience. The hike to get to the beach is a remarkable reward for those willing to explore – it’s about two miles, but once reached, you can see down to Kawa Bay.
With no vendors or facilities surrounding it, you won’t find hordes of tourists here; visitors can enjoy this gem with few natural distractions. Papakolea Green Sand Beach gives those adventurous enough a chance for an exclusive look at natural beauty combined with an opportunity for reflection.
Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve And Botanical Gardens
The Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve and Botanical Gardens offers a chance to explore and connect with nature unlike anywhere else. Situated near Hilo on the Big Island, this tropical paradise has over 2,000 species of plants, many rare and endangered, providing an immersive experience for the eyes and spirit. Exploring the gardens’ paths will take you around lush landscapes and waterfalls and through its educational center, where one can learn about the ecology of Hawaii’s tropical forests.
Guided tours are available if you want to learn more in-depth information, while lakeside restaurants offer a relaxing place to review what you’ve seen. With its focus on conservation and education, the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve and Botanical Gardens is more than just a beautiful spot – it is a natural wonder!
Enjoy Hawaii’s Natural Wonders On The Big Island!
The big island of Hawaii is filled with awe-inspiring natural sightseeing, from its majestic mountains and rolling hills to its picturesque beaches and lush forests. Whether you’re exploring the ancient heiau of South Point or admiring the green sand beach in Papakolea, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy. So if you are searching for the best location to take in Hawaii’s natural wonders, look no further than the Big Island. You will surely be amazed and awestruck by the beauty and grandeur it has to offer!
