19/06/2023
"What are the Top 23 Free or Cheap Things to Do on the Big Island?"
See this 'Guide to the Top 23 Free or Cheap Things to Do on the Big Island!'
Aloha! Welcome to the Big Island, the largest and most diverse island in the Hawaiian archipelago. With its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and unique volcanic landscapes, the Big Island offers a wide array of activities for visitors on a budget. In this guide, we've compiled a list of the top 23 free or cheap things to do on the island.
From exploring national parks to attending cultural events, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So, without further ado, let's dive into the best free or low-cost attractions that the Big Island has to offer!
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Address: Highway 11, Hawaii National Park, HI 96718
Phone: (808) 985-6000
Website: https://www.nps.gov/havo/index.htm
Cost: $30 per vehicle (valid for 7 days)
Explore the incredible landscapes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to two active volcanoes: Kilauea and Mauna Loa. The entrance fee covers a whole week, so you can take your time to hike, enjoy scenic drives, and learn about the island's volcanic history.
Hapuna Beach State Park
Address: Old Puako Rd, Waimea, HI 96743
Phone: (808) 464-0840
Website: https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/hawaii/hapuna-beach-state-recreation-area/
Cost: Free
Hapuna Beach is known for its white sand, clear blue water, and excellent swimming conditions. It's the perfect spot for a beach day, with picnic facilities, restrooms, and showers available on-site.
Punalu'u Black Sand Beach
Address: Hwy 11, Pahala, HI 96777
Phone: N/A
Website: N/A
Cost: Free
Visit the famous Punalu'u Black Sand Beach, where the striking black sand is formed by volcanic activity. You might even spot green sea turtles basking in the sun!
Akaka Falls State Park
Address: End of Akaka Falls Road, Hilo, HI 96728
Phone: (808) 961-5797
Website: https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/hawaii/akaka-falls-state-park/
Cost: $5 per vehicle
Featuring a 442-foot waterfall, Akaka Falls State Park is a must-see natural attraction. A short, paved trail leads you through a lush rainforest to the stunning waterfall.
Pololu Valley Lookout
Address: End of Highway 270, Kapaau, HI 96755
Phone: N/A
Website: N/A
Cost: Free
Take in the breathtaking view of Pololu Valley from the lookout, or hike down to the black sand beach for an even closer look at this dramatic landscape.
Waipi'o Valley Lookout
Address: 48-5546 Waipio Valley Rd, Honokaa, HI 96727
Phone: N/A
Website: N/A
Cost: Free
Waipi'o Valley is known for its lush greenery, steep cliffs, and stunning waterfalls. Enjoy the view from the lookout, or embark on a hike to explore the valley floor.
Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park
Address: 73-4786 Kanalani St. #14, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Phone: (808) 329-6881
Website: https://www.nps.gov/kaho/index.htm
Cost: Free
Discover Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park
Address: Highway 160, Honaunau, HI 96726
Phone: (808) 328-2326
Website: https://www.nps.gov/puho/index.htm
Cost: $20 per vehicle (valid for 7 days)
Step back in time at this sacred Hawaiian site, once a place of refuge for those who broke ancient laws. Explore the reconstructed temple, royal fishponds, and cultural demonstrations.
Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station
Address: Mauna Kea Access Road, Mauna Kea, HI 96720
Phone: (808) 935-6268
Website: https://www.ifa.hawaii.edu/info/vis/
Cost: Free
Visit the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station to learn about the mountain's cultural and scientific significance. Enjoy stargazing programs at 9,200 feet above sea level, but be prepared for chilly temperatures!
Manta Ray Night Snorkel and Dive
Address: Varies by tour operator
Phone: Varies by tour operator
Website: Varies by tour operator
Cost: Varies by tour operator, but expect around $100 per person
Experience the thrill of swimming with manta rays at night. Although not entirely free or cheap, this once-in-a-lifetime adventure is worth the splurge.
Lava Tree State Monument
Address: Pahoa Pohoiki Rd, Pahoa, HI 96778
Phone: (808) 961-5797
Website: https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/hawaii/lava-tree-state-monument/
Cost: Free
Wander through a forest of lava molds, formed when hot lava engulfed and cooled around tree trunks. The easy, 0.7-mile loop trail takes you through this unique landscape.
Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens
Address: 800 Stainback Hwy, Hilo, HI 96720
Phone: (808) 959-9233
Website: http://www.hilozoo.org/
Cost: Free, donations appreciated
Visit the only tropical rainforest zoo in the United States, home to over 80 animal species. Highlights include the endangered nene goose, colorful parrots, and a white Bengal tiger.
Kona Coffee Living History Farm
Address: 82-6199 Mamalahoa Hwy, Captain Cook, HI 96704
Phone: (808) 323-2006
Website: https://www.konahistorical.org/index.php/kona-coffee-living-history-farm/
Cost: $15 for adults, $5 for children (ages 5-12)
Learn about the history of Kona coffee farming through hands-on experiences, such as picking coffee cherries, feeding animals, and grinding coffee beans.
Laupahoehoe Point Beach Park
Address: Laupahoehoe Point Rd, Laupahoehoe, HI 96764
Phone: N/A
Website: N/A
Cost: Free
Relax at this picturesque beach park, featuring tide pools, picnic areas, and a memorial dedicated to the 1946 tsunami victims.
Hilo Farmers Market
Address: Corner of Mamo Street and Kamehameha Avenue, Hilo, HI 96720
Phone: (808) 933-1000
Website: https://www.hilofarmersmarket.com/
Cost: Free to browse
Shop for local produce, artisan crafts, and delicious treats at the Hilo Farmers Market, open on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Puako Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve
Address: Holoholokai Beach Park Rd, Waimea, HI 96743
Phone: N/A
Website: N/A
Cost: Free
Discover over 3,000 ancient petroglyphs etched into lava rock, offering a glimpse into the lives of early Hawaiians. Follow the 1.5-mile roundtrip trail from the Holoholokai Beach Park to the preserve.
Rainbow Falls
Address: Rainbow Drive, Hilo, HI 96720
Phone: N/A
Website: N/A
Cost: Free
Visit this easily accessible waterfall, named after the rainbows that appear in the mist when the sun shines. The best viewing time is in the morning when the sun is at the perfect angle.
Four Mile Scenic Drive (Pepe'ekeo)
Address: Highway 19, Pepeekeo, HI 96783
Phone: N/A
Website: N/A
Cost: Free
Enjoy a picturesque drive through lush rainforest and scenic coastal views. Stop at the various lookout points to take in the beauty of the Big Island.
Old Kona Airport State Recreation Area
Address: Kuakini Hwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Phone: (808) 961-9540
Website: https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/hawaii/old-kona-airport-state-recreation-area/
Cost: Free
Relax at this beach park, featuring picnic facilities, a walking path, and a small sandy beach. The park is situated on the site of the former Kona airport runway.
Kahaluu Bay Beach Park
Address: 78-6710 Alii Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Phone: N/A
Website: N/A
Cost: Free
Kahaluu Bay is a popular snorkeling spot, with calm, clear waters and an abundance of marine life. Bring your own gear or rent some nearby.
Lili'uokalani Gardens
Address: Banyan Drive, Hilo, HI 96720
Phone: (808) 961-8737
Website: N/A
Cost: Free
Stroll through this beautiful Japanese garden, featuring pagodas, koi ponds, and stone lanterns. The 30-acre park offers a peaceful respite and lovely views of Hilo Bay.
Coconut Island (Moku Ola)
Address: Banyan Drive, Hilo, HI 96720
Phone: N/A
Website: N/A
Cost: Free
A short walk across a footbridge from Lili'uokalani Gardens, Coconut Island is a perfect spot for a picnic, swimming, or simply enjoying the views of Hilo Bay.
Kalapana Lava Viewing Area
Address: Highway 130, Pahoa, HI 96778
Phone: N/A
Website: N/A
Cost: Free
Experience the power of nature at the Kalapana Lava Viewing Area. While lava flow is not guaranteed, when conditions permit, you can witness the incredible sight of glowing lava making its way to the ocean.
We hope this guide has inspired you to explore the beautiful and diverse attractions that the Big Island has to offer. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or a beach enthusiast, there are plenty of free or low-cost experiences to enjoy on this stunning island. Aloha and happy exploring!
