Big Island
with Kids
Volcanoes, stargazing at Mauna Kea & world-class snorkeling — Hawaii’s wildest island
Why Big Island?
Big Island is unlike any other Hawaiian island — or anywhere else on earth. Where else can your family hike across active lava fields in the morning, snorkel with manta rays in the afternoon, and stargaze from the summit of the world’s tallest mountain that evening?
It demands both thorough planning and a solid budget, but with Costco Travel packages or smart points redemptions, it’s far more accessible than it looks. Book early — the best deals and accommodations go fast.
or Downtown Kona
Snorkel Cruise
& Stargazing
7-Day Itinerary
Two relaxing days at our resort in Waikoloa to unwind and soak in the sun after the long journey. Let the kids decompress — there’s no rush on Big Island.
An absolute trip highlight. Drive up to Mauna Kea in the afternoon to catch the breathtaking sunset above the clouds, then stay for stargazing. The sky from the summit is unlike anything you’ve ever seen — the kids were speechless.
Early start to the park. Visitor center first, then Sulphur Banks & Steam Vents trail — the volcanic landscape feels like another planet. Lunch at Lava Rock Cafe. Afternoon: Kīlauea Iki Trail — hiking across a hardened lava lake is one of the most surreal experiences of our lives.
The Fairwinds snorkeling tour at Kealakekua Bay was nothing short of spectacular. Crystal clear water, incredible marine life, and a crew that’s fantastic with families. One of the best snorkeling experiences we’ve ever had — book this early, it sells out.
The Place of Refuge — serene, culturally rich, and genuinely moving. The trail along the coast is gorgeous and kid-friendly. A great way to learn Hawaiian history together as a family.
Morning flight to Maui to continue the Hawaii adventure. Inter-island flights are short and inexpensive — highly recommend doing both islands in one trip.
On our Next Time list: Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, Akaka Falls & Waipio Valley Lookout near Hilo, and a Kona coffee farm tour — all highly recommended!
Where to Stay
Ideal Big Island flow: 4–6 nights in Waikoloa or Kona → 1 night near Volcanoes National Park → 1–2 nights in Hilo. Covers the whole island without backtracking.
💚 Value Stays
Royal Kona Resort / Outrigger Kona
Both offer oceanfront views in Kona at reasonable prices. We spent a day at Royal Kona’s pool with friends — the views were absolutely unforgettable.
✓ Kona OceanfrontVolcano House – Near Volcanoes NP
Stay right at the crater rim. Their restaurant The Rim serves delicious lunches with stunning crater views — a unique experience worth a night.
✓ Crater ViewsSCP Hilo Hotel
Charming stay in Hilo, perfectly positioned to explore the lush east side of the island. Great base for Akaka Falls and Waipio Valley.
✓ Hilo Base🏆 Best Hotels with Points
Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa
We used 50K Marriott points/night for two nights. Superb pools, live evening music, prime location on Anaehoomalu Bay beside an ancient fishing pond. Book 4 nights, get the 5th free!
★ 50K Marriott/nightHilton Waikoloa Village
Right next to the Waikoloa Marriott. Known for expansive property and unique amenities — monorail, boat rides, dolphin encounters. Book 4 nights, get the 5th free!
✓ Hilton PointsHoliday Inn Express Kailua-Kona (IHG)
We did 4 nights at 40K IHG points/night. Downtown Kona location, spacious rooms, and fantastic complimentary breakfast every morning. Book 3 nights with points, 4th night free!
★ 40K IHG/nightCourtyard King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach
Rich historical significance, beachfront access, solid Marriott points redemption in central Kona. Great location for exploring downtown.
✓ Marriott PointsNearby must-visit: Lava Lava Beach Club — right next to the Waikoloa Marriott. Vibrant beach atmosphere, great food, perfect sunset spot. Don’t miss it.
Getting There
Fly into Kona International Airport (KOA) — the main gateway for the west side where most resorts are. Smaller and easier to navigate than most mainland airports.
If island hopping, consider booking as a multi-city itinerary — fly into KOA, explore Big Island, then hop to Maui (OGG) on a short inter-island flight before flying home.
For our last trip, we used 41K Avios each via American Airlines from the Midwest. We also spotted United return flights for just 16K each through Turkish Airlines — keep an eye out, the deals are there.
Island hopping tip: Inter-island flights between Big Island and Maui are short (~30 min) and relatively inexpensive. Doing both islands in one trip is absolutely worth it.
Full flight booking strategy in our Flight Guide →
Booking with points? See the cards we use for Hawaii
Our Cards →