Akaka Falls State Park

Akaka Falls State Park is nestled along the northeastern Hamakua Coast. The two mellifluous waterfalls are seen on only one short hike. A pleasant half a mile trek will take you through a lush rainforest of wild orchids, bamboo groves and coquettish ferns. You'll pinch yourself to find this is all indeed real, especially with the 100-foot Kahuna Falls and the towering Akaka Falls, which plummet down 442 feet.

• Web:

  dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/hawaii/akaka-falls-state-park

• Address:

  Akaka Falls Road, Honomu, Island of Hawaii

• Phone:

  +1 808 961 9540

• Opening hours:

  Daily 8am–5pm

Anaehoomalu Beach

This thin strip of white-sand beach is flanked by the Anaehoomalu Bay on one side and two ancient Hawaiian fishponds, Kuualii and Kahapapa, on the other. Located near the Waikoloa Marriott, it is a favorite spot for swimming, windsurfing, snorkeling and other water activities.

• Address:

  69-275 Waikoloa Beach Drive Waikoloa, Island of Hawaii

Hamakua Heritage Corridor

The Hamakua Heritage Corridor takes you on a scenic day trip along the Hamakua Coast. Drive 45 miles along sea cliffs, through lush valleys and tropical rainforests with ample opportunities to explore old plantation towns, see amazing waterfalls and take scenic detours.

• Web:

  www.gohawaii.com/islands/hawaii-big-island/regions/hamakua-coast/hamakua-heritage-corridor

• More info:

  The iconic Waipio Valley Lookout is a popular stop on the Hamakua Heritage Corridor

Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden

This beautiful garden showcases some of Hawaii's rich variety of plant life, with a great selection of orchids as the standout feature. A walk through the garden takes visitors down to the shoreline and back up again, providing some great views of the ocean.

• Web:

  htbg.com

• Address:

  27-717 Old Mamalahoa Highway, Papaikou, Island of Hawaii

• Phone:

  +1 808 964 5233

• Opening hours:

  Daily 9am–5pm

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

You have the unique opportunity to watch one of nature's most powerful, beautiful processes as the earth unfurls to release its magma from the volcanoes. As one of the most active volcanoes on the planet, Kīlauea volcano is consistently one of Big Island's biggest attractions. Its reputation precedes it as a sacred place for Native Hawaiians as well. Marvel at the active Mauna Loa, learn about volcanology at the Jaggar Museum, take a selfie at the viewpoint overlooking the Halema'uma'u Crater. The long, underground cave formed by ancient flowing lava called the Thurston Lava Tube (Nāhuku) is another must-see.

• Web:

  www.nps.gov/havo/index.htm

• Address:

  Kīlauea Visitor Center, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Island of Hawaii

• Phone:

  +1 808 985 6000

Hilo

Hilo is a region of Hawaii known for its dramatic waterfalls, fertile rainforests, blooming gardens and its geographic inverse of the volcanic Kohala Coast. Hilo is also the gateway to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, located 45 minutes south. You'll find plenty to do with a collection of renowned museums, art galleries, unique shops and everlasting favorites like the Hilo Farmers Market.

• Web:

  www.gohawaii.com/islands/hawaii-big-island/regions/hilo