A vacation on the big Island will be filled with green experiences

Whether you stay in a vacation rental in Hilo, Waimea, Kona or other town on Big Island, you can plan a trip filled with green experiences. Travelers are increasingly seeking green vacations, in some regard, and the islands offer multi-faceted options.

Planning a Big Island vacation? Check out our selection of Kona vacation rentals for your stay.

Experiences such as living like a local, eating fresh fruits and vegetables, dining at farm to fork eateries, visiting internationally recognized sites and seeing native flora and fauna will enthrall travelers. Green travel seems to renew spirits and Big Island guests would likely agree. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is not only one of the most revered island sites among Hawaiians, but it is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage and World Biosphere Site (for its history and natural diversity). Trails for all skill levels, captivating scenery and much flora and fauna dot the textured landscapes of the park. Your excursion to explore the lava and lore is important; the nature trails near your vacation rental are likely also worth exploration, whether they lead to the beach or nearby site. Notice the native birds and spend as much time looking up as you do looking ahead or down.

Tour the coffee farms to see how Kona coffee is grown

Farms, herb gardens and farmers’ market feed Big Island’s local eateries with both good food and drink so dig into pan Asian cuisine made with ingredients from the island’s land and sea. Tour the coffee farms, visit the markets and talk with local farmers about their farming philosophies and what sustainable, local and green mean to them. Meat, seafood, fruits, herbs, vegetables and coffee are all available for you to create your own local dining experience in the gourmet kitchen of your vacation rental or indulge in a green dining experience with an acclaimed island chef.

Staying in one of our Waikola condos allows you to create your own local dining experience in the gourmet kitchen.

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Explore the Big Island’s ancient past at Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park

A luxury vacation rental stay on Big Island in Kona is an enviable location, with miles of culture stretching out one scenic mile after another. King Kamehameha spent his last days here and the vast area’s draw is still clear today, with historic churches, dramatic sea cliffs and diverse marine life.

Planning a vacation to the Big Island? Experience all of Kona’s culture from one of our Kona luxury rentals.

Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park
Spending time at your vacation rental, by the pool and at the beach should all be part of the trip. Additional experiences for guests wanting to soak up culture along with sun are simple with national and state historical parks. The fish ponds, heiau, lava rock structures and petroglyphs tell the story of Big Island’s ancient past. Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park is a lovely place for hiking, fishing, snorkeling, wildlife viewing and cultural demonstrations. Pack a picnic and explore.

Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park
For those who want to snorkel, Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park is the place to see the tropical fish in the ocean, sea turtles resting on the shore and endangered wetland birds flying overhead. The historic Mamalahoa Trail and Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail feature historic points and the Ala Hele Ike Trail is a hike to the beach with native plants and historic structures along the way.

Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park

Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park is a great place to kayaking, snorkel and scuba dive

Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park is a water sports paradise, with kayaking, snorkeling and scuba diving. Bluegreen waters, tropical fish in the bay and the Hikiau heiau (sacred temple honoring Hawaiian god, Lono) will delight you as you explore the land from the sea’s vantage points.

For more places to stay in Kona, take a look at our selection of Kona vacation rentals.

After excursions to the parks, if you still want to see Kona’s culture and heritage, visit a coffee farm for tours and tastings. Take some home and make sure to buy a bag to enjoy during your stay in your luxury vacation rental.

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Get the most out of your Big Island vacation by staying at one of our scenic Big Island luxury rentals

Hale O’Lihi Kai
Envision a home that sits above the water, in two ways, both scenic and architecturally impressive. Hale O’Lihi Kai in Kona is a multi-level home in a gated community within walking distance of downtown Kailua Kona. The estate overlooks a seaweed-strewn beach and also boldly stands on pillars in the water. It will not only feel like your own island, but it really is an oasis. Wonderfully spacious rooms, a gourmet kitchen and several outdoor spaces to take in the view from fantastic vantage points make it all the more inviting. The privacy, heated pool, scenic small ponds, outdoor shower and many other amenities make this a top luxury rental.

Roc Slide
Mauna Lani is the location of Roc Slide, a vacation rental for as many as 12 to enjoy their trip comfortably. A partial ocean view and partial mountain view gives the best of both in this location. Some of the features guests love include the double bath in the master suite, the covered lanai and large pool. Entertaining at home is an opportunity to enjoy the good life, both indoors and outside. Double glass doors, a sanctuary feel with the garden landscapes and nearby shops give you everything you need to luxuriate in your time on Big Island. Five refrigerators mean you can relax and enjoy a cool beverage and snacks pretty much from any area of the home. Guests appreciate the convenience of their ride to the beach—the golf cart (included in the vacation rental).

Kolea 8 Oceanfront Home – The Blue Wave
An oceanfront resort home in the resort community of Waikoloa, the lavish vacation rental is a wonderful Big Island hideaway. Cozy canopy beds, a media room and a master suite with private hot tub gives you plenty of places to luxuriate. The finely furnished home includes a personal sauna and a sea view to revel in while bathing, all in complete privacy. The resort’s Beach Club Pavilion has a natural lava hot tub, infinity edge pool, and a children’s pool with a sand bottom and waterfall. Blue emanates from every viewpoint; relax with cocktails on the partially covered lanai and watch soft winds flow through the Banyan trees that frame the pool area.

Experience oceanfront views from our Big Island luxury rentals

Hale Ohi’a Kai
A home that brings elements of nature into it in elegant harmony makes you want to spend time both indoors and outside. The fire pit, infinity pool overlooking the sea and Banyan trees, the rustic partially covered lanai and gourmet kitchen are all places around which to gather. Kona’s beauty is highlighted through every window with a sense of serenity. It’s no wonder the resting sea turtles have discovered this area. Nearby White Sands Beach, the private pool and the Jacuzzi all beckon so enjoy active days, lazy days and begin the nights with cocktails and appetizers seaside watching the sunset before a leisurely gourmet meal.

Hibiscus
The name evokes the scent of tropical beauty and the home in a gated Kona Bay community was designed by a talented local architect who appreciates the best things about island living. All within a mile are the pier, fresh seafood, white sand beach, a lagoon and plenty of inviting views along the way. A waterfall and pond greet your entry to the home and it’s master bedroom will give you one of the best views on the block. Park yourself in a lounge chair and watch the pool, the sea and trees with cocktail in hand. Whether you visit as a couple or a family, this luxurious estate meets many needs in a fine and unbelievably relaxing manner. Have meals catered, host a pool party and at all times, feel a sense of safety as the community offers 24 hour security so you can feel at home while exploring.

Kolea 14 Ocean View Home
An intimate home that gives you cozy spaces and also room to relax, the biggest decisions will be along the lines of whether to rest in a hammock or luxuriate in a lounge chair. Either way, you can relax by the pool, retreat to the partially covered lanai or soak in the natural lava hot tub. The Waikoloa resort area offers plentiful shops, eateries and golf. A chef’s kitchen, infinity edge pool and walking distance to places to eat and browse make Kolea 14 an enviable choice. The garden and waterfall setting add to the visual appeal of this private home. Nearby is the white sand beach of Anaeho’omalu Bay, perfect for a sunny day lazing and picnicking before retreating back to your luxurious vacation rental.

Enjoy the nearby white sand beaches

Hale Nana Kohala
Magnificence elevated to a new level, this Puako home offers a Zen retreat that invites guests to spend their vacation lounging in the best way. An infinity pool flanked by Banyan trees that do not block the seaside beauty make it an obvious space for dining around and, of course, swimming. The privacy, the impressive gourmet kitchen, spacious and cozy sleeping rooms and grand bathrooms are added benefits for a group of friends or family to stay. The architecture is impressive, with cathedral ceilings and a covered lanai from which you can whale watch in multiple places, including the third floor with a 360° view. The home sleeps eight, so if you go with extended family or a group of friends, you don’t need to worry about fighting for the best room—there are two master suites.

Hale Aouli
Mauna Lani is home to Hale Aouli, Blue Vault of Heaven, which is a breathtaking estate, from which you can peacefully enjoy the land and sea. It’s a private home in a gated community and an extended family would revel in the quality time spent together and amongst themselves, as the home provides for both in its spaciousness. The obvious places to gather are the grand poolside area, gourmet kitchen and partially covered lanai. The unique features include an outdoor tub for the ultimate bubble bath amidst nature, with a lava rock wall and extreme privacy. Stately rooms and surreal walkways bring Big Island living to a luxurious best and the nearby private beach is steps away. You’re 30 minutes from the airport, away from congestion. Local caterers will whip up a fantastic gourmet meal to celebrate your island stay with the freshest and finest ingredients. Hale Aouli at Pauoa Bay offers community amenities too, with plenty to do during your visit.

For more luxurious places to stay on your Hawaii vacation, check out our complete selection of Big Island luxury rentals.

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Explore wildlife, sealife and unbelievably captivating Big Island landscapes

The Big Island vacation rentals in Kona are masterpieces in architecture and the serenity of setting will make you want to become a permanent resident. Black lava rock, fishponds, heiau and other significant Kona landscapes provide much to explore. Kona’s many sights, including the multiple parks—national and state—give Hawaii vacation travelers so much to explore, wildlife, sealife and unbelievably captivating Big Island landscapes.

Hale Kona A’ekai Beachfront Home at Kona Bay
An oceanfront home in a private gated community, it would be entirely too simple to label it a seaside oasis. The home offers views overlooking a wild coastline, with lava rock and powerful waves. Watch from the tranquility of your designer infinity pool, with waterfalls, an expansive lanai, sandy bottom wading pool, ponds, plus a patio. Guests staying in the home or adjoining cottage can sip coffee in the morning or wine in the evening with plenty of space to spend time together or enjoy their own reverie. Teak, bamboo and granite are materials used in the home; everything is top-notch for staying home or exploring to return to a sanctuary.

Keauhou Laukaha
Located at the birthplace of royalty, Keauhou Bay, this home seems to bring leisure and luxury to those staying in it. Whether visiting as a family, with a loft for the kids, or a couple enjoying a romantic hideaway, it’s a place to watch the Ironman or participate in whale watching excursions. The pool, lanai within the master suite and palm fronds you’ll see from the windows are features guests love in this cozy home. Keauhou Shopping Center is a five minute drive, as are eateries and Kahalu’u Beach Park.

Enjoy a Kona sunset from one of our Kona vacation rentals

The Kona View House
The home lives up to its name, as the focus beyond the walls of this lovely home, is the view of the midnight blue waters, heightened by the dark lava lined infinity edge sea pool. The home offers a unique way for architecture to meld with nature. Day trips to Volcanoes National Park, eateries and for coffee tasting will keep the adventures exciting and varied. A hot tub, spacious living areas and pretty views from each window are some features of this home, just a brief walk to Magic Sands and Kahalu’u Beaches.

Hale Ohi’a Kai
A place to marry or enjoy after marrying, this dreamy estate offers architecture that reflects the nature of the area. Kona’s famous beaches, Magic Sands and Kahalu’u, plus Lyman’s Bay are all nearby for swimming, sunning, paddling and fishing. The infinity pool, driftwood bench on the lanai, outside fire pit, intimate tub, wet bar and other features make Hale Ohi’a Kai a top pick for a vacation with all your favorite Big Island features, both in the home and nearby. Many guests opt to stay longer so they find the balance of lounging and enjoying the home and also to explore the nearby sights.

Kona landscapes provide much to explore

12 Alii Point
The home is a magnificent estate that appreciates the natural beauty of Kona and art and architecture as well. Four tastefully furnished bedrooms, lots of light through windows and balcony reveal views of blue skies and blue waters. Enjoy sunning by the lap pool or getting more exercise by swimming after a game of tennis. Whale watching in December and year-round leisure are additional reasons to visit and experience Kona’s many offerings while staying in this private home in gated community. While you’ll have seclusion, you won’t feel isolated with the many sights, shops and eateries within short driving distance.

For more places to stay in Kona, take a look through all of our Kona vacation rentals.

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Escape to paradise with one of our Big Island luxury rentals as a base to explore

Hale O’Lihi Kai
Romance for some, family reunion for others and longtime friends gathering are a few types of travel scenarios for guests of Hale O’Lihi Kai. A fascination in architecture, upscale features including granite and teak, ocean views, keiki ponds and plenty of semi-outdoor seating areas that combine impressively with the natural setting. Kona’s snorkeling, deep sea fishing, spas and local eateries are convenient, especially if you want this luxury vacation home as a base to explore.

Roc Slide
A luxury rental for 12 or less, this private estate is expansive, with top-notch features. A gourmet kitchen with an island bar, home theater, covered lanai and private park with putting course and other amenities make this property a popular one. Guests seeking nearby spa, shopping and dining opportunities, plus beach time will find Roc Slide ideal and idyllic. The Shops at Mauna Lani include dining and entertainment so you might find anything from the Macadamia Nut Festival to concerts on an outdoor stage to lei making and hula lessons.

Hibiscus
Kailua Kona’s natural attractions enhance the setting for Hibiscus, a palatial ocean estate just three minutes from Keiki Beach. Waterfalls, ponds, multiple luxury suites and a gourmet kitchen that’s perfect for cooking and leisurely dining are all major draws for visitors who return annually to Hibiscus. The private pool, courtyard and expansive lounging areas both indoors and outside will entice you to stay at Hibiscus since all you need is on-site or nearby.

Enjoy upscale or casual restaurants nearby our Big Island luxury rentals

Kolea 8 Oceanfront Home – The Blue Wave
The Blue Wave lives up to its name and well beyond, with an oceanfront view, native trees and state-of-the-art appliances and electronics. Located in Waikoloa, the home features elegant and themed décor that will make each guest feel he has a place specially made for him. The lanai, pool, spa and cabana with sound system make this home its own private resort. The outside shower and other features of this luxury vacation rental are unique and evidently appeal to everything a traveler needs and wants for an island retreat. The area’s shops, restaurants and natural beauty offer an upscale yet casual resort feel.

Hale Nana Kohola
Hale Nana Kohola, Whale Watch House, is perfect for a nature lover’s paradise and anyone visiting Puako on Big Island will be drawn to this luxury home. Magnificent architecture, a place that whales breed in distant waters and where sea turtles laze are what you’ll see and be enthralled with upon initial sight.

You’ll instantly feel at home amidst the spacious living and sleeping areas, suites, and fine furnishings. Entertain for two or 10 with a media room and gourmet kitchen area with cathedral ceilings, covered lanai and 46’ 360 degree infinity pool. Bring the binoculars and retreat to the third story spot for whale watching, plus sunrise and sunset spectacles.

Check out our complete selection of Big Island luxury rentals

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These Waikoloa condos are inviting for a family or a romantic hideaway for a couple

Waikoloa Beach Villas D4
Rock-sheltered pool with waterfall, pool table and cozy loft and living areas make this Waikola beach villa warm and inviting for a family or a romantic hideaway for a couple. The private lanai, walk-in shower, Jacuzzi and grand entertainment center are features that make everyone feel like they’re truly on vacation on Big Island. Nearby are upscale restaurants, Kings’ Shops, Queens’ Marketplace and plenty of things to do. Also, gorgeous Waikola and Hapuna beaches are also within close proximity for sunset strolls, daily coastal walks, exploring trails, sunbathing and picnics.

Waikoloa Colony Villas 2701
This two-story villa is in the center of luxury, with championship golf courses, location in resort area, snorkeling and other water sports at Anaehoomalu Beach. The vacation rental, with its light and inviting colors, make nights at home warm and cozy. Play rounds of golf, head to the resort spas and then reward yourself further with a fine gourmet dining experience at Roy’s. Natural beauty and culture are found here, with nearby petroglyph sites and ancient fishponds.

Waikoloa is an excellent location with shops, eateries, spas and the spectacular Anaehoomalu Bay nearby

Waikoloa Beach Villas B4
Beautifully furnished, with an anticipation of every need, this villa is great for a small family, group of friends or couple. The great room, loft, sitting areas and master lanai with lounge chairs provide plenty of spots to enjoy a cocktail and conversation. The luxury amenities, including top-notch entertainment system, gourmet kitchen appliances, sports gear and other items will save you time and money while visiting so you can maximize time on the beach and exploring Waikoloa. The location is excellent, with shops and eateries, spas and the spectacular Anaehoomalu Bay just two minutes away.

Take a look at the rest of our Waikoloa condos on the Big Island.

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Take a romantic coastal walk on the Big Island

Big Island’s landscapes; bountiful flora and crystal foam rolling against black, green or golden sands create staggering coastal walks. The wildly rugged scenery, multi-colored sunsets and height of mountains surrounding the beach areas provide a draw for explorers, hikers and happy couples.

Planning to take a vacation on the Big Island? Check out our Kona vacation rentals.

Kekaha Kai (Kona Coast) State Park
Whether you strive for an almost five mile hike or a leisurely stroll, Kona Coast is a natural pick for a coastal walk. You can start with a hike on the Ala Kahakai historic trail and later, picnic and swim. The trail leads to Kua Bay and Pu’u Ku’ili, a remarkable cinder cone (almost 350 foot tall) and idyllic views of the coastline.

Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area
A dynamic trail loop, the Ala Kahakai Trail (Kawaihae-Anaehoomalu) is accessible from Hapuna Beach. It’s 15 miles, so plan accordingly to hike as little or as much of the trail as you wish. The coastline is a heritage one, with paths once walked by ancient fishermen and traversed by royalty. You can also venture to the petroglyph field via the Malama Trail. The Ala Kahakai Trail treats you to some of Big Island’s precious coastline areas, an ecotourism adventure, with ponds, crashing waves sea cliffs and areas with limited access except on foot.

Experience idyllic views of the Big Islands coastline

Lapakahi State Historical Park
The Lapakahi Village Interpretive Trail is a short but picturesque-packed trail that celebrates the restored remains of an ancient coastal settlement. Treat yourself to a gorgeous coastline, with the occasional whale providing a show in the distance. If you get tired or you’re traveling as a family and need to get back to the parking lot sooner than expected, the center of the trail is a shortcut. The full length of the trail is a mile.

Also, take a look at our Waikoloa condos for your stay on the Big Island.

Kehena Beach
Make a trip to Puna for the black sands of Kehena Beach. It’s a remarkable terrain, with black sand packed solid on the land and foamy waves crashing against a group of black rocks. Walk along this unique beach area and though initially, it’s hard to look away from the coastline and black sand, you can look just beyond for some dancing dolphins.

Take a trip to Puna for the black sands of Kehena Beach

Other notable coastal walks
Papakolea Beach is known for its eye-catching light mossy green sands. Leleiwi and Kaunaoa (Mauna Kea) Beaches are known for gentler, romantic coastal walks, with good picnic and sunset stroll options. White Sands Beach rounds out the trip to the black and green sands. Big Island’s varied sights, including the sea turtles and whales, contrasts of sand and distinct features such as craggy rocks and cove areas rank high for nature walks. The ancient sites, heiau, fishponds and lava rock are among the facets of scenic coastal walks on Big Island.

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Horseback riding will give you access to remote areas not accessible by vehicle

Horseback riding was once considered a rustic, countryside activity, but over the years, a need to find genuine respite has made many travelers look into experiences they wouldn’t normally consider. Furthermore, activities on the islands tend to heighten the activity simply because of the setting. One location, the Waipio Valley, is one of the best Big Island locations for horseback riding, for the cliffs reaching 2,000 feet, the taro fields, and the tallest waterfall, Hiilawe Falls. Known as the Valley of the Kings, the depth of the valley, the verdant landscapes and the rivers in this sacred heritage site will make every trip a scenic adventure. Driving to the Waipio Valley floor is exciting in itself and horseback riding will give you access to steep and remote areas not accessible by vehicle.

Planning a trip to the Big Island? Check out our Kona vacation rentals for your stay.

Waipio Valley
Overlooking the Hamakua Heritage Corridor, more paths for horseback riding amidst rainforests, cliffs and more green pastures. Picnic breaks overlooking a black sand beach, the World Botanical Gardens and jagged coastlines will energize you for the next ride.

Kahua Ranch
Another Big Island location for horseback riding is Kahua Ranch, adjacent to the Kohala Mountains, a private, working ranch that offers guided tours on their 8,500 acres. You’ll see a day at the ranch, with cattle, seemingly endless views of pasture, glimpses of wildly rugged coastlines and more.

Waimea

Embrace the paniolo (Hawaiian Cowboy) in Waimea

Another location that embraces the paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy). The multiple ranches in upcountry Big Island offer horseback adventures beyond the ride. Evenings around the campfire, music, local food, an opportunity to meet with local residents and roads you can’t drive by car will complete the horseback riding experience on Big Island.

Stay nearby Waimea’s multiple ranches in one or our Waikoloa condos.

As advisable for any excursion, make sure you ask questions of the tour outfitter or ranch. Find out what you need to bring, dress comfortably and carry snacks and essentials that are not provided for you.

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Surfing on the Big Island is outstanding throughout the year

The Big Island is a phenomenal surf spot so if you’re considering a trip to Hawaii and plan on starting with Oahu, consider finishing with The Big Island. The waves are powerful in the winter but surfing is outstanding throughout the year. The West side, Kona, has a good number of cool surf spots, including some for beginners. The East side, which is in Hilo and is the windward side is a place for experienced surfers.

Planning a surf trip to the Big Island? Stay in one of our Kona vacation rentals.

Banyans
Located on the Big Island’s West Shore, Banyans is a popular surf spot a few miles from downtown Kona. Beginners can use this surf spot to watch the experienced local surfers. The best swell directions are from the west and southwest and the best wind direction is from the northeast. Banyans is best to surf in the summer and the surfboards to use are shortboards, longboards, funboards or stand-up paddle boards. The waves are hollow and it’s a left reef break. The bottom is reef and coral so keep an eye out for the sharp rocks and sea urchins. It’s a local scene so if you surf, keep in check the standard surf etiquette and be prepared to show your skills.

Watch the experienced local surfers

Kahaluu
Both an excellent snorkeling and cool surf spot. Kahaluu is nifty, with three sections of reef with lagoons in between. The farther the reef, the bigger the waves. This surf spot is located past Magic Sands beach. Use shortboards, funboards, longboards or stand-up paddle boards for optimal surfing. The best wind direction is from the east and the best swells are from the west and southwest. Kahaluu is crowded in the summer it’s a reef and coral bottom, with sea life including sea urchin and sharp rocks so beginners need to be extra careful.

Honolii
The East side of Big Island has a wondrous surf spot, Honolii. You’ll find surfers and boogie boarders at this location beyond Hilo (Highway 19, past the cemetery). The best swell directions are from the east and northeast while the winds are from the west, southwest and south. Waves here, similar to some of the West side surf spots, are hollow and consistent, starting from three to five feet and up to 12’. It is a right and left rivermouth break. Look out for large, sharp rocks and keep in mind that it’s a local spot, so again, show respect for other surfers.

Stay nearby the east side surf breaks in one of our Kapoho vacation rentals.

Pine Trees
A cool, remote spot that is perfect for beginners, Pine Trees is located near the airport north. Take Highway 19 and turn left when you see signs for the Natural Energy Lab. You’ll need a 4WD to get to Pine Trees. Both summer and winter are equally good surf seasons here, with wind directions flowing from the east. The swells are from the northwest, west and southwest, with a right reef break. Shortboards, longboards, funboards and stand-up paddle boards are all workable for a grand surf experience. Pine Trees has a reef and coral bottom, as do many of the Big Island surf spots. Weekends are a busy time and locals flock to this spot.

The Big Island has surf spots for all skill levels

Lymans
Located on the West shore in between Magic Sands and Kahaluu Beach Park. Here, you’ll find left breaking waves with swells from the northwest and southwest and winds from the east and southeast. Summer is when surfers most often visit Lymans. Bring your shortboard, longboard, funboards or stand-up paddle board. It’s another local spot but worthwhile for all skill levels. The reef and coral bottom are sharp, as are most of the other surf spots throughout the island.

Also, take a look at our Waikoloa condos located on the West shore of the Big Island.

Surfing on Big Island will bring plenty of exhilaration throughout the two seasons in Hawaii, summer and winter. The waters are generally clean and clear and most of the surfing here provides an opportunity to surf and watch local experts.

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The Big Island offers many shopping opportunities

A brief break from the nature and heritage experience on Big Island is easily provided through shopping. The open air markets, farmers’ markets, high end shops and authentic Hawaiian-made crafts are all part of the retail mix.

Planning a Big Island vacation? Stay in one of our Kona vacation rentals.

A classic car museum, divine chocolate treats, fine jewelry, quilts and high end apparel are a few places to check out at Queens’ Marketplace, which is more than just a shopper’s paradise. Daily koi feedings, chocolate and coffee tastings, quilting classes, hula and ukulele lessons, wildlife awareness presentations, Polynesian performances and even ipu (gourd drums) making are activities throughout the year at this bustling marketplace. While it’s shopping on the surface, it’s also an entertaining way to explore Hawaii’s heritage.

Make sure to explore the smaller shopping areas

Fine art and fine things are among the items available at the Kings’ Shops. Rent island transport (bikes, motorcycles, Segways and scooters), plan your day trips through the Visitor Center and outfit yourself with apparel, handbags, watches and jewelry. Make sure you visit Under the Koa Tree, a boutique that holds the work of Hawaii’s artisans who create fine woodwork, art, quilts and other handcrafted items.

In addition to kings and queens, a prince is usually not far behind. Prince Kuhio Plaza is a shopping mall with a variety of stores plus a movie theater on-site.

For more rentals in Kona, check out our Kona luxury rentals.

Parker Ranch Center, Waimea Center and Parker Square in Kamuela are smaller shopping areas, a neat way to experience local life. If you’re staying on Big Island a week or more, the conveniences of banking, groceries and other services are here in one place. You’ll also find local eateries, including coffee, pizza and burgers. A must stop shop is Reyn’s, the classic island wear store.

Tour the oldest and largest coffee processing Coop in the United States

The islands are home to macadamia nuts and a trip to Big Island to take home these island treats is a fun shopping and sightseeing experience. Take a tour of the site, orchards and watch the confections being created on-site at Mauna Loa in Hilo. Want coffee to go with those macadamian treats? Explore the Kona Pacific Farmers Cooperative and tour the oldest and largest coffee processing Coop in the United States. Taste local eats and shop for the items you can’t leave to go home without.

Also, please consider our Waikoloa condos for your stay on the Big Island.

Keauhou Shopping Center in Kailua-Kona has gifts, groceries, a few places to eat and a movie theater. Big Island is also home to multiple farmers markets, also known as sunshine or green markets. Shopping at these markets isa wonderful way to meet locals, find local foods and watch handcrafted items created before you. Big Island has six different farmer or flea markets, including Alii Gardens Marketplace, and farmers’ markets in Hilo, Keauhou, Kona, and Panaewa.

If you’re short on time, or aren’t one to spend too much time shopping, find a few hours to see a shopping center (for local artisans and places to eat) and a farmers’ market or food tour site, which counts as shopping and sightseeing in one.

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