Sometimes you choose a destination because it’s on a list of places you’ve always wanted to visit, and sometimes you go because a friend chooses it as their destination wedding location. In this case, my trip to Hawaii was the latter and I couldn’t have been more excited to go.

We were going to The Big Island of Hawaii, and were so fortunate to have friends with us that had previously lived there to guide us in the best beaches, hikes, and adventures. Five of my friends and I rented a large Airbnb on the hillside overlooking the town of Kailua-Kona and the ocean. The house had a large lanai (a porch or veranda), and a private yard with plenty of space. It was also in a great neighborhood near a running and walking path. Our friends that were getting married were staying in a gorgeous villa nearby and we spent a few afternoons enjoying the infinity pool there.

Before visiting Hawaii, I pictured the landscape as lush and green everywhere, up to the shorefront of the beaches. While that is true in some parts, in others it is extremely dry. Perhaps even more surprising to me was seeing the expanses of lava fields - miles of black land that, until you get close to it, you almost don’t realize it is hardened lava. In case you forget that there are numerous volcanoes on the island, driving past these lava fields will constantly remind you.

Walk Through a Lava Tube

One of the first days we were there, we drove over towards the Hilo side of the Island to explore a lava tube. There are thousands of these lava tubes under the ground’s surface on the Big Island, left from volcanic eruptions decades ago. We wandered into a wooded area (keep in mind this is not a guided tour) with headlamps and flashlights, and down into what I can only describe as a large hole in the ground to enter the opening of a lava tube. While in the cave I had to keep reminding myself that what I was walking on and surrounded by was once lava.

Hike Down to the Black Sand Beach in the Pololu Valley

Later in the week, my friend and I took a day trip to the Pololu Valley and Waipi’o Valley. The Pololu Valley is known for its spectacular views, lush landscape, and the black sand beach at the base of the cliffs. It did not disappoint. We hiked the short, but steep trail down from the top of the valley to the beach below. The black sand can get extremely hot during the day so we walked along it with our sandals on. It can be difficult to swim here due to the strong current and rocky floor but we waded in a bit anyway.

Visit the Waipi’o Valley

After grabbing a fresh fruit smoothie from a farm stand leaving Pololu, we then headed towards Waipi’o Valley. This valley was equally as impressive as Pololu and looks like a scene from Jurassic Park. The valley is nearly six miles deep, and stretches up cliffs of almost 2,000 feet high. Years ago this area was a favorite for Hawaiian kings. The view point from the top (where I took the photo below) is a stunning view, but you can also hike trails in the area if you have more time to spare.

Spend a Day at Makalawena Beach

One of the highlights of the trip for me was Makalawena Beach. It’s somewhat off the beaten path and we needed to walk over a mile over a lava field just to get to the beach (bring more rugged shoes than your beach flip flops). Once we got there, however, we nearly had the entire white-sand beach and clear waters to ourselves. If you visit this beach, be sure to bring plenty of water and food and plan for the fact that there are no restrooms or facilities. Despite that, it was well worth it, and one of the most beautiful and pristine beaches I’ve ever seen.

Watch the Sunset at Magic Sands Beach

We spent our last day at Magic Sands beach in Kona, staying until sunset just a few hours before our flight home. It was such a beautiful way to spend our last evening, catching all the rays possible before leaving.

Hawaii: The Big Island - heatherrinder.com

Visit a Farmer’s Market

I love going to farmer’s markets on trips like this because you really get a flavor for the local flowers, and fruits and veggies. Since I was staying in Kona, I visited the Kona Farmers Market and it didn’t disappoint. We picked up fresh fruit for breakfast smoothies.

Stargaze at the Mauna Kea Observatory

Mauna Kea is Hawaii’s tallest volcano and is considered one of the best places to view the stars. Go up to the summit early to catch the sunset and then see the stars.