This year, traveling (among many other things) is pretty limited. When life gives you lemons, turn them into a Big Island staycation! Many hotels are currently offering discounted rates, so what better way to ring in the holidays and the new year with a getaway weekend? Explore new restaurants, beaches, and hikes for a fresh perspective on the island we all know and love.
Treat yourself to a stay in a hotel
Who doesn’t love waking up to an amazing view and fresh hotel linens every morning? There are plenty of hotels across the island such as Fairmont Orchid, Royal Kona Resort, and Hilo Hawaiian Hotel, as well as the recently reopened Mauna Lani Hotel, that are offering kama’aina discounts right now, so get in this spirit this holiday season and celebrate Christmas in elegance at one of these Big Island hotels.
Visit a local museum or national park
A hike among the giant craters of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park or a stroll through Laupahoehoe Train Museum might give you a glimpse of normalcy while supporting these attractions that have undoubtedly seen a decline in their normal number of visitors this year. Some may not currently be open to the public just yet, so check in with these Big Island museums and cultural destinations for the latest news for your next stop on your staycation.
Go on a quest for new local cuisine
Check out these local restaurants for your next in-person dine-in experience on your journey for the ultimate staycation experience. On the way, be sure to pick up some local delicacies such as hot sauce or chocolate to take home back with you.
Kick back at the beach
Sightseeing is what draws people to Hawai’i—everywhere you look, there’s beauty. Make a pit stop on your staycation adventure at a beach you’ve never been to before, because there are plenty to be seen.
West Hawai’i beaches to visit on your Big Island staycation:
- Makalawena Beach (you’ll need four-wheel drive)
- Two-Step (bring your snorkel and fins!)
- Beach 69
East Hawai’i beaches to visit on your Big Island staycation:
- Laupāhoehoe Beach Park
- Waipi’o Black Sand Beach
- Pololū Beach (bring hiking shoes!)
Take a hike
Discover new terrain in parts of the island that you’ve never experienced before for breathtaking landscapes and perhaps even a waterfall or two.
West Hawai’i hikes to take on your Big Island staycation:
- Kaloko Trail
- Hike to Papakolea Beach (Green Sand Beach)
- Captain Cook Monument Trail
East Hawai’i hikes to take on your Big Island staycation:
- Onomea Bay Trail
- Kaumana Caves State Park
- Puna Trail
No matter what you end up doing on your Big Island staycation, enjoy looking at our Island through the eyes of a vacationer. You’re almost guaranteed to see something new!
