Hawaii (Big Island) Travel Forum

East Coast of the Big Island?
Posted: Thu April 16, 2009 05:22 PM UTC

Aloha! I am hoping someone can give me the scoop on the best place and area to stay on the east coast of the Big Island? My husband and I are staying 2 nights on the west coast (Kona) and then will head to the east for our last 2 nights. We fly in and out of Kona but our departure back to the mainland isn't until late evening so we will have the entire day after we checkout. We plan to do a boat or helicopter tour to view the lava and also some site seeing by foot in the Nat'l park. We would like to do the drive to see the amazing waterfalls, green sand beach, etc. but I am not sure if we should stay one night at the Nat'l Park and another in Hilo or both nights in Hilo or somewhere in between. I am also hoping to checkout the Hilo market before we leave. Really, we are just hoping to see the highlights in our short stay. Can anyone help with some recommendations or suggestions for our brief trip to the east coast? Much Mahalo! Bridget

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Re: East Coast of the Big Island?
Posted: Thu April 16, 2009 07:09 PM UTC

I think that splitting up the two areas are fine except for the fact that you are flying in and out of Kona. The advantage is of course a late flight. It is a 2 hour drive on the North Hawaii Belt Road from Kona to Hilo and you are wise to spend at least one night in Hilo. The waterfalls of Akaka and Rainbow are on the Hilo side of the Island. The area where the active caldera is located is neat to stay in as well. My wife and I stayed at the Volcano House but did not give up our room in Waikaloa. Crazy, but it meant less packing to go to see the lava flows. You might even want to base yourself at the volcano for it is only about 35 minute drive to Hilo. Taking the long way back to Kona from Hilo past the volcano or from the volcano to Kona is a great way to see the other loop of the Hawaii Belt Road and enjoy the last full day. The drive alone without stops is about 2 1/2 to 3 hours long. So, plan some great stops on the way back like the Old Hawaiian Village at Pu'uhonua o Honaunau, 2 hour drive, and then to Kailua Kona in about 45 miutes and your last day will be spent sightseeing before flying out of Kona.

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travelgourmet

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Re: East Coast of the Big Island?
Posted: Thu April 16, 2009 07:57 PM UTC

Thank you so much TravelGourment! Your info is very helpful!

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Re: East Coast of the Big Island?
Posted: Thu April 16, 2009 11:20 PM UTC

Kona has lot's of vog from volcano, but hotels at Waikoloa are good choice. Marriott & Hilton have good air. We drive up there just to clear our lungs and eyes. Been this way for several months. Hilo side is nice so enjoy the view.

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KonaMax

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Re: East Coast of the Big Island?
Posted: Mon April 20, 2009 03:58 PM UTC

Thank you!

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Re: East Coast of the Big Island?
Posted: Tue May 5, 2009 01:36 PM UTC

Thanks for the recommendation...we are difinitely going to do the helicopter tour!

We have decided to stay 2 days at the same place on the east coast but I am having trouble deciding which district to chose (Hamakua/Hilo/Puna/Ka'u). Does anyone have any helpful info or suggestions on these areas? We are going to visit the main attractions (Volcano, Akaka Falls, Hilo Farmers Market, etc.) We would prefer to have an ocean view but not too far of a drive from a restaurant (I don't cook on vacation) and not a condo. Thank you so much again for any info you can provide!

Bjudge

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