Is It Safe To Vacation On The Big Island
Should you vacation on the Big Island? Safety is at the forefront of everyone’s mind when they are planning a vacation. Different destinations have different safety concerns, and whether you’re traveling to Hawaii or not, it’s important to know which locations are safe and unsafe.
Of course you want to visit the Big Island, Hawaii’s largest island. But maybe the Pacific Tsunami Museum isn’t at the top of your island sight-seeing list, or perhaps Halema’uma’u Crater is completely skipped over on your hula dance pilgrimage (“that’s okay,” I’ll nod understandingly as you meander through my 40 acres of tropical plants that originally came from every island”). You can forget about high-rising hotels and quaint ’60s-style bungalows; instead I have Airbnb vacation rentals that range from a shared bunk house studio apartment with a single bath to a three-bedroom ’50s ranch home with 1.5 baths and WiFi for up to 5 people.
The island of Hawaii played a large part in the lives of those who live here and it continues to be of great importance. There are many places for visitors to see and enjoy. Here I will list some of them along with a few of the best times to visit so you can get the most out of your trip.
Best Months to Visit
The best time to visit Hawaii’s Big Island is between September and November. That’s when the island’s generally reasonable room rates take the most significant plunge. Temperatures remain constant throughout the year – generally in the high 70s or low 80s – so you might want to avoid the priciest season, from December to March, unless you like to surf.
Weather in Hawaii – The Big Island
SWITCH TO CELSIUS/MM
Average Temperature (°F)
79.2
63.6
79.4
63.5
79.2
64.7
79.3
65.6
80.6
66.7
82.2
68
82.5
69.2
83.2
69.4
83.4
69
82.7
68.5
80.7
67.2
79.5
64.9
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Average Precipitation (in)
0.38
0.35
0.56
0.49
0.32
0.29
0.42
0.39
0.36
0.38
0.61
0.41
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
See details for When to Visit Hawaii – The Big Island
Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center
What You Need to Know
- You will need a cameraWe did mention the flowing lava and the black sand beaches, right? Well, your best bet for seeing the former is at night, though you should call the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park‘s visitor center to check on Kilauea before you head out.
- You will need a sweaterThose snow-capped mountains aren’t an optical illusion. The higher elevations of the Big Island make it cooler on this island than others in the chain.
- You will need all-wheel driveIf you’re driving (and we recommend that you do), you’ll soon learn that the island’s varied terrain is easier to cover in a sturdier car.
Is It Safe To Vacation On The Big Island
How to Save Money in Hawaii – The Big Island
- Stay in Hilo You won’t be near the west side beaches that tourists love so much, but there are a terrific selection of bed-and-breakfasts in this area. And you can load up on affordable souvenirs, snacks and more at the weekly Hilo Farmers Market. Plus, you’ll be closer to Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park.
- Take the bus You might miss some of the Big Island’s splendor this way, but the public bus charges just $2 per trip.
- Plan a fall trip Tourism slows on Hawaii’s Big Island in October and November. It’s only a small window, but you could find a great package deal on some of the four-star hotels around this time.
Culture & Customs
If you’re traveling from the United States and someone asks you where you’re from, you can reply with the “mainland” or your particular state or city. Don’t make the mistake of replying with “United States.” After all, Hawaii is a part of the U.S. too.
Although Hawaii is an expensive place to visit, it’s also an expensive place to live and work. Keep in mind that many in the tourism and hospitality industries – from servers at restaurants to valets at hotels to taxi drivers rely on tips to pay their bills. If you can, tip generously.
Make sure to take extra care of the land by removing personal trash and belongings from beaches and nature areas. On Big Island, it’s important to “Leave No Trace” of your presence. Hawaii also discourages travelers from taking sand or sea shells; in the national parks, it’s illegal.
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What to Eat
Expect to encounter plenty of Hawaiian fusion restaurants in the hotel areas, serving shredded pork, poi (Hawaiian dessert) and other regional favorites. Those in the tourist industry expect vacationers to want what they perceive as authentic Hawaiian cuisine, and the restaurants are more than willing to provide. Fresh seafood is also a staple in many restaurants, as is locally grown produce. Kona coffee is also something you’ll want to try in Big Island and perhaps take home a bag or two. To taste test at the source, head to Kona Coffee Living History Museum, Hula Daddy Kona Coffee or Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation. Of course, you can also try a cup of Kona at Big Island coffee shops and breakfast joints.
You’ll find the best eateries are the establishments on the Kohala coast, near Kona, but you should be prepared to pay the special “tourist” price. ULU Ocean Grill at the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai earns high praise for its delectable menu and ocean views, but it’ll cost you. There are cheaper spots in Kona, such as 808 Grindz Café, but for more reasonable prices, head to Hilo establishments like Hilo Bay Café, which earns high marks from travelers for its sushi, and local favorites like Paul’s Place and Pineapples. For cheaper eats, try Puka Puka Kitchen.
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Safety
Crime is rare on the Big Island. Your primary concern should be water safety. While the water temperature is almost always agreeable, winter surf can get very rough, especially along the north shore and on the beaches in the west coast. Strong currents have caused drownings in the past, so swim with caution and never enter the water alone or without the supervision of a lifeguard. If you plan to hike or walk along the coastline, be sure to wear sneakers or protective footwear so that your feet aren’t exposed to sharp rocks. You should also wear sunscreen, especially at higher altitudes.
Getting Around Hawaii – The Big Island
The best way to get around Hawaii’s Big Island is by car. The island is simply too large to affordably and conveniently navigate without one. You can pick up a rental car at either the Kona International Airport (KOA) or the Hilo International Airport (ITO), or if you want to let go of some serious cash, you could take a taxi from the terminal to your hotel. Once near your lodging, you might be able to get around town on the island bus system, just keep in mind that its schedule is not always convenient for tourists.
Many travelers who visit the Big Island have a connecting flight from O’ahu‘s Honolulu International Airport (HNL), from which you’ll fly into Hilo airport on the eastern side. Kona airport near the west side will probably be more convenient if you’re staying by the Kona or Kohala coast.