Fun 5 Day Kona/Big Island Itinerary for Exploring Hawaii!

If you’re searching to plan the ultimate first-time vacation on Hawaii’s Big Island, then my 5 day Kona itinerary is exactly what you need. But with so much ground to cover, it’s not always obvious how to fit everything into a short trip.

One of the biggest problems is knowing what to prioritise and where to base yourself. The Big Island is far larger than people expect, attractions are spread out, and poor planning can mean missed highlights or long, exhausting days on the road.

Having explored Kona and the Big Island myself, this itinerary is written for first-timers who want a realistic, well-paced plan. I’ll share my day-by-day breakdown that balances iconic sights with local experiences, so you can enjoy the island without the stress of overplanning.

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5-Day Kona Itinerary on the Big Island, Hawaii

If you’re looking for an escape that’s nothing short of spectacular, know that the Big Island was a fantastic destination for us. Kona was where we spent most of our time (as well as Honolulu), and I have to say, it was the ultimate highlight.

With its warm and sunny weather and gorgeous landscapes (from beaches to jungles to volcanoes), there’s no shortage of activities awaiting outdoor lovers like me.

Day 1 – Volcano’s & Lava Tube

Volcanoes National Park

Hawaii’s enchanting volcanic landscapes have been shaped by fire, lava.

Unlike most volcanoes, Hawaiian volcanoes are situated 2000 miles away from tectonic plate boundaries, yet they continue to erupt regularly, crafting new landscapes in the process. 

➡  Book Volcano National Park tours HERE with Viator, or HERE with GYG.

It’s hard to fathom the raw strength and power that create these towering peaks, hotspots, and fiery rivers of molten lava. The islands have been built and reshaped by this relentless volcanic activity, and it is hard not to feel humbled and inspired by their natural beauty. 

Among them is one especially noteworthy, a volcano that can be seen almost all the time, right outside the visitor centre. Here, we could catch our first glimpse of the fiery red light, a mesmerizing sight.

Thurston Lava Tubes

Our second site of the Thurston Lava Tube is an underground cave created by molten lava. It formed a unique geological wonder that leaves an everlasting impression on all those who take the opportunity to explore it. 

Lush vegetation surrounds the tube, along with the 500-year-old lava formations that line the walls. This captivating formation is a testament to Mother Nature’s power and beauty. 

We were lucky to choose a day tour that included everything above, as well as a short visit to Hilo and a couple of waterfalls. As much as we had our own car to drive around, the local knowledge and experience shared was unmatched, and I’m glad we did it this way. 

➡  Book Kona Accommodation HERE with Booking.com

Day 2 – Beach Day & Manta Rays

Beach Day

Beaches days are very flexible when planning your trip, but prepare to be amazed by the beauty and diversity of its beaches. Unlike the traditional golden sand beaches you might be used to, the Big Island is known for its white sand, coral, and lava rock beaches.

I recommend checking out Hapuna Beach, which is a true gem on the northwest coast. As one of the most family-friendly locations on the Island, this beach is everything you could ask for and more. 

With half a mile of sandy shore to explore, you’ll also enjoy ample sunshine during your visit. And let’s not forget, there’s a professional lifeguard on duty, so it’s a safe place to swim, sunbathe, picnic, and even go hiking.

Spend as little or as much time as you like there, but ensure you’re back in the early afternoon for your next tour.

Swim with Mantas

Diving was my biggest drawcard for visiting the Big Island, and I ended up swimming with the Mantas Rays three nights in a row. Departing from the Marina, this encounter takes you to an area with high concentrations of these gentle giants of the ocean.

➡  Check out Manta Tours HERE with Viator, or HERE with GYG.

And let me tell you, after diving with mantas all around the world, these are some of the biggest I’ve seen. 

The best news is you can choose to snorkel on top of the water or dive underneath (if you’re certified). All this, while waiting for the Mantas to come past while you admire their grace and beauty.

It was the most incredible experience and a definite highlight to your Kona Itinerary

Day 3 – Black & Green Sand Beach / South Point

Black Sand Beach

Punalu’u Black Sand Beach is one of Hawaii’s more famous natural attractions that has gained fame for two reasons.

• Firstly, the beach is covered with beautiful black sand,
• and secondly, you may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of Hawksbill and green turtles soaking up the sun. 

The sand is created from the small pieces of pitch-black lava that have been transported from nearby volcanos through natural weather processes. It may feel slightly coarse on your feet, so you almost need to wear something on your feet (at least most of the time). 

Green Sand Beach

We didn’t regret finding our way to Papakolea Green Sand Beach, where the sand is not your typical beige colour but instead a mesmerizing shade of green.

The reason behind the unique colour is due to the green olivine crystals that make up the sand, which come from the surrounding volcanic cone. 

Though considered too fine to be gemstones, the experience of walking along the beach feels like you are walking on real jewels. This type of beach is extremely rare, and only four Green Sand Beaches exist worldwide.

Unfortunately, this kind of beauty comes at a cost, and getting there is not the easiest. I suggest reading into my blog post linked above, as there are a few options and things you need to consider when going to see it.

South Point

Did you know that the most southern point of the United States is on the Big Island? That alone is cause to visit, but South Point is more than just a sightseeing spot with caves, rugged cliffs, and a 40 to 60-foot jumping opportunity. 

It is one of the windiest places in Hawaii, just perfect for thrill-seekers. So, hold onto your hat!

However, South Point is surrounded by stunning natural beauty and unique landscape features waiting for that picture-perfect photo op. 

Day 4 – Whales & Snorkelling

There are options for full-day and half-day tours on the water from Kona.

So, depending on what month you’re travelling to the Big Island, you can go Whale Watching and Snorkelling in the one day or just snorkelling!

Whale Watching

From December to April is Whale Watching season in Hawaii, and visitors can witness the majestic and playful giants of the ocean as they frolic and show off their agility.

➡  Find Whale Watching Tours HERE with Viator, or HERE with GYG.

Boat trips provide the perfect vantage point for spotting humpback whales breaching, blowing, and slapping their fins on the water. And if you’re fortunate, you might even catch sight of dolphins or schools of fish swimming below.

Snorkelling or Diving

However, you can also enjoy an underwater adventure at any time of year!

With endless opportunities to explore the vibrant marine life, brilliant coral reefs, and, of course, the sea turtles that call this paradise home.

➡  Find Snorkelling Tours HERE with Viator, or HERE with GYG.

The crystal clear waters offer a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean, and if you’re lucky, you may even spot a pod of the very cool spinner dolphins.

If you haven’t guessed, being underwater is my happy place, where your mind clears, and all you can hear are the sounds of fish nibbling on coral or whales singing in the distance.

Day 5 – Waterfalls & Luau Show

Waterfalls

The Hilo, or on the rainy side of the Big Island, lies a collection of stunning waterfalls. This includes the mesmerizing Boiling Pots to the fantastic Rainbow Falls and Umauma Falls.

But know, these Hilo waterfalls are among Hawaii’s most photographed wonders. 

➡  Compare Waterfall Tours HERE with Viator, or HERE with GYG.

However, it’s important to remember that these powerful beauties are not meant for swimming due to the strong currents and slippery rocks. So, take some time to appreciate these glittering cascades and enjoy the serene setting offered by Mother Nature. 

If you have your own car, you can list the highlighted falls and drive around on a time schedule that suits you. Or choose to take tours that include other activities you’re interested in. 

Luau Cultural Show

With every new country I visit, I like to indulge in some sort of cultural activities, try local food, and hopefully some music and dance.

All the Luau shows from the Big Island to Oahu are very similar, but I recommend seeing at least one of them. 

➡  Add a Luau Cultural Night HERE with Viator, or HERE with GYG.

Imagine yourself seated comfortably in a stunning outdoor setting with your loved ones, surrounded by the sound of traditional music and culture. All while savouring the aroma of mouth-watering Kalua pig and Poi.

You’ll be entertained by the best performers showcasing unique talents ranging from fire dancers to stunning Hula moves. 

It’s the perfect way to spend the last night on your Kona Itinerary. Have a couple of drinks, meet some like-minded travellers, and feel satisfied with all you have done on vacation.

Where to Stay?

When it comes to finding accommodation, I often find it tedious and draining when researching. However, for me, the answer has always been based on the location and the proximity to my desired activities.

➡  Compare prices for accommodation HERE with Booking.com

When on holiday, I want to make the most of my time and not waste it on long travel times. So, when I decided to visit The Big Island, I chose the central city area for my stay at the Kona Seaside Resort.

Not only was it close to the domestic airport, but it was also convenient for my daily Manta diving adventures. The beauty of it is that regardless of the area you choose, there is an abundance of accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly to five-star luxury.

How to Get Around?

When choosing how to get around, we weighed up our choices and chose to take advantage of a couple of options. This included with both hiring a car to drive around and taking organised tours when it suited us. 

With car hire, you can travel at your own pace and experience all the island has to offer on your own time. Along with having the freedom to stay as long as you want in certain spots or move on quickly to others. 

➡Find your favourite brand & compare prices for your Rental Car HERE

On the other hand, if you like to have a plan set in stone or appreciate local history and information, there are plenty of organized day tours you can book ahead of time for your travels. These tours take the stress out of planning and allow you to sit back and enjoy the ride. 

A mix of both can be the perfect solution for those who want a balanced structure and spontaneity.

Is it safe to visit?

At no time throughout my visit did I feel unsafe or run into any issues on the Big Island. However, I’m also aware that you shouldn’t dismiss common sense and take precautions even with a lower crime rate. 

Whether you’re traveling alone or with a group, it’s not a good idea to walk around dark alleys at night or isolated streets, especially when you’re by yourself. It’s also essential to keep a close eye on your bags and never leave them unattended. 

If you need to ask for directions, knowing that English is widely spoken is comforting for someone like me. Also, lock your hotel room door and balcony when you’re not using them, and always keep yourself informed about the town you’re visiting. 

When is the best time to visit?

Anytime between April and October is a good time to travel to Hawaii. But, the Big Island presents a fantastic option for those seeking year-round vacation destinations.

However, with the Big Islands popularity comes the challenge of choosing the best time to go. This is amidst the fluctuating weather patterns and high demand for accommodations. 

We ended up selecting the month of April, which is before the busy summer season, and accommodation rates were still reasonable. The weather was fantastic, with sunshine and warm days.

Although evenings were a bit cooler and required me to bring a light jumper. 

Wrap up!

To summarize, a 5 day Kona Itinerary enabled me to make the most of my time. Admiring its impressive beauty without feeling rushed or exhausted from all the vacation planning involved. I must say it was one of my most memorable trips, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a tropical getaway!

I fell in love with the beauty and hospitality and I’m excited to add my own recommendation to its growing list of admirers. If you’re looking for inspiration for your next vacation, please check out more USA posts on my website to help you plan!