The island of Hawaii is big—giving it its nickname: The Big Island! While you may think of tropical beaches and palm trees when you think about a trip to Hawaii, the Big Island offers so much more. If you are pressed for time, 3 days on the Big Island may be all you have. But don’t stress about it. A good 3 day Big Island itinerary can hit all of the hot spots, and more. Our Big Island road trip, an around the island road trip, is designed to do just that!
From the rainy Hilo side to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park where lava often flows— growing the island, to the coffee and macadamia plantations, the ranches and farms up in the cowboy country and the sunny, dry Kauila-Kona and Waikoloa beaches, there is so much to see on the Big Island. If you have plenty of time, good for you! You will enjoy every minute in Hawaii, no matter how long you stay. Perhaps you would be better looking at our Big Island 5 Day Itinerary, or our Big Island Budget Guide.
But maybe you only have 3 days on the Big Island. Perhaps you are on a very tight budget, or have very limited vacation time. Or maybe you are visiting the Big Island while touring all of Hawaii. Rest assured, with a good 3 day Big Island itinerary you will not feel like you missed out. Our round the island road trip will hit almost everything!
This 3 Day Big Island Itinerary includes:
- Day 1: Waikola
- Hapuna Beach
- The Kohala Coast
- Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historic Park
- Hawi
- Kapa’au
- Pololu Beach
- Waimea
- Paniolo Country
- Day 2: Coffee Country
- Kaleakula Bay
- South Point Hawaii
- Naalehu
- Volcanoes National Park
- Day 3: Hilo
- Wailuku River State Park
- Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden
- Akaka Falls
- Umauma Falls
- Honokoa
- Waipo Lookout
- Back to Waikola
I put together this three day Big Island road trip route to hit what I think are the best and most interesting sites around the island. My guess is you’ll want to come back for more if you have a chance. After almost 30 visits, I am still finding fascinating new places.
Where to Stay for your Big Island Road Trip
Most visitors stay at one of the hotels or resorts on the Kona-side of the Island. If you are staying longer than 3 days on the Big Island, you will want plenty of time in the sunshine relaxing on the beach. This the side you want to stay on!
First class shopping with stores like Macys, Coach, Tiffany’s and Tommy Bahamas at Queens Marketplace and Kings Shops are on this part of the island too.
Waikola
Waikoloa Beach hotels are located in a particularly dry and sunny part of the island. This is also where you will get those glorious Hawaiian sunsets. Waikoloa makes a perfect base for this round the island road trip.
Hilton Waikola Village
The Hilton Village is sometimes referred to as Disneyland, with its trams and canal boats and a multi-million dollar collection of Asian art. It is a popular place to stay, but it’s also worth a stop here to take a quick stroll to see the gardens.
There are a number of different options within the Hilton properties, so there is probably something that suits you. We travel with a lot of family members, so the condo options at The Bay Club often works for us. As you would expect, each condo has multiple bedrooms, a living room area, and a full kitchen.
You can check out the rooms at The Bay Club to see if they are right for you, or even make a reservation.
The other Hilton options with the Village include The Ocean Tower, the Kohala Suites, and King’s Land.
Getting Around on the Big Island
One main road, called the Belt Road (Routes 11 & 19), circles the island making it easy to drive around the whole island. On the Northwest, there is another road going up to the tip and dead-ending at the Poipu Lookout.
While you are in your resort, you will not need any means of transportation. However, once you are setting out on your Big Island road trip, you will need a car. In most cases you will have to pick up your car at the Kona International Airport, but if you reserve ahead of time you can pick up at the Waikola Village Airport.
Check rental car options and prices for Waikola.
Things to Know About the Big Island
Black Lava is Everywhere on The Big Island
Black lava from volcanic activity stretches from the 14,000’ + Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea volcanos to the sea. Visitors are sometimes surprised when they get off the airplane in Kona to see black lava everywhere instead of white sand beaches and palm trees. It’s part of the history and the uniqueness of this island.
The Godess Pelé is said to live on the Big Island. As you travel around the island, you will, no doubt, be impressed by her magic and fire. There are several legends about her, including The Curse of Pelé. On your round the island road trip you will see lots of lava and feel the spirit of Pelé.
Our Hawaii 3 Day Big Island Itinerary
I’m going to assume you came in yesterday or even have been here for a few days and are ready to explore this BIG fascinating island. It is best that you are well relaxed, as we have plenty of adventure ahead of us. Get a good night’s sleep so that you can hit the road for your Big Island 3 day itinerary very early each day. The days will be packed.
Hawaii Round the Island Road Trip Day 1- The Kohala Coast
We are going to enjoy a day trip today to explore this part of the Big Island, called North Kohala. Wear or bring your bathing suit, a hat, tennis or hiking shoes, and sunscreen. If you are visiting during the winter months, bring your binoculars along too.
Breakfast – Kona Coffee and Malasadas
Start your day with Kona coffee at your hotel or one of the local coffee shops. Then pile in the car and drive north on Highway 19.
Hawaiian (or Portguese) pastries, called malasadas, are rolled in sugar stuffed with chocolate, guava, mango, haupia or Bavarian cream. They have become intrinsic to the Hawaiian culture, so they are one of the treats you must have during your 3 days on the Big Island.
As you continue your drive north from Waikoloa Beach, on the side of the road right before Hapuna Beach, you’ll see the Hot Malasadas Truck (395 A Mamalahoa Hwy). You shouldn’t leave Hawaii without having a malasada, and it’s the best way to start your Big Island road trip.
Hapuna Beach
Hapuna is one of the prettiest beaches on the Big Island. Swim for an hour or so and watch the surfers. It costs $5 to get in for non-locals, and there is plenty of parking. There is also a snack bar, if the malasadas didn’t fill you up.
Tip: You can go a little further up the road to a smaller beach with shade trees called Beach 69 that has no parking fee.
Your dip in the ocean complete, get back on Route 19 for a few more miles north, where you will be turning left towards Kawaihie.
Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historic Park
Even a short 3 day Big Island itinerary should allow some time to experience some of the Native Hawaiian history. Stop at Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park on over 182 acres for a glimpse at the history of where refuge could be sought. The temple was built in 1650 and housed the bones of at least 23 chiefs. It was a place of safety for any within its walls. There is an entrance fee of $5 per car.
North Kohala
After your swim, I know you are getting hungry again. Don’t despair, we are going to a great place for lunch and it’s only about 25 minutes away. From Kawaihie, turn onto Route 270 for the 20-mile drive up to Hawi.
You’ll be driving on a road that gives you great ocean (and maybe whale) views. Rolling hills and cattle are to your right and ocean views all the way to Maui to your left.
From November to April, Humpback whales migrate to these waters to calve their babies. The ocean views along this road are often are filled with breeching whales. The Hawaiian word kohala means whale.
Caution: Don’t try to spot them while driving. Pull over. Often, you’ll see other cars pulled over and usually they are watching the whales breech and splash.
Hawi
The cute, little town of Hawi is just a few blocks long. Art galleries, one of a kind jewelry and crafts provide some authentic souvenirs or gifts to take home. My favorite place to buy pearls is the shop called Pacifica.
Lunch at Bamboo Restaurant and Gallery in Hawi
Bamboo Restaurant and Gallery is in a building built in 1911 as a hotel in the sugar plantation days. You’ll feast on fresh Hawaiian Island style cuisine.
To give you an idea of the vibe: on the wall was posted a sign that said, “TODAY’S Special: Naked Chefs and Wild Women.” We saw neither. However, the last time we were there, three elegant barefooted ladies danced a couple of hula dances while we ate.
After lunch, yummy macadamia ice cream is available across the street at the Kohala Coffee Mill. Gifts and coffee are sold there too.
Kapa’au
No, you can’t take a nap. We are going for a hike. Get back in the car and drive north a few more miles to King Kamehameha’s birthplace. This is another stop on our Big Island road trip where you can learn about the Hawaiian culture. There are some great shops and art galleries here in Kapa’au, home of the original King Kamehameha I Statue.
If this statue of the first Hawaiian King, Kamehameha looks familiar, that is because there are several around the world. We wrote about the one in Honolulu in our Oahu Budget Guide, and there is another in Washington D.C.. If you would like to know a little more about the Kingdom of Hawaii, we share a bit of the history in our 7 day Oahu itinerary.
You can also visit the museum about King Kamehameha across the street. The huge statue was brought from Paris via Germany but the ship sank. Later it was found and brought to Kapa’au.
Pololu
Continue driving north another 5 miles or so on Highway 270. You’ll literally come to the end of the road at the stunning Pololu Valley Overlook with a breathtaking view of the verdant green cliffs and black sand beach. Parking here is along the roadside, so take what you can find.
To hike down to the black sand beach, there is a wide path. It is a slippery hike if there’s been rain and it is a bit steep. A walking stick is a good idea. It is about a 30-minute hike down and perhaps a little longer coming back up.
If hiking isn’t your cup of tea, take some pictures from the Overlook. The view from the bottom is as stunning as that from the top though, and well worth the hike. Besides, any 3 day Big Island itinerary would be incomplete without at least one black sand beach!
Waimea
Drive back down to Hawi but instead of going back along the ocean road, in the middle of town, turn left and take Route 250 (Kohala Mountain Road) towards Waimea. Our Big Island roadtrip has many surprises for first time visitors, and this high road ride with its incredible ocean views and pastures full of horses and cows is usually one of them. There are several pull-offs where you can stop and take selfies or pictures of the pastures rolling down to the ocean.
This road dead-ends back on Route 19 and you’ll take a left into the town of Waimea (or the Post Office calls it Kamuela). A few miles in, Route 19 ends at route 190. Directly in front of you is The Parker Ranch Shopping Center with all things Hawaiian cowboy (or Paniolo) in the Parker Ranch Store!
The best burgers on the Island are here at The Village Burger. If you are not hungry yet, our 3 day Big Island itinerary will provide another opportunity to try it out, if you do crave a burger. Or just indulge in the goopy, garlic French Fries.
Paniolo Country
From the shopping center, turn left (south) onto Route 190 (Mamalaho Highway) to head back to your Waikola, through Paniolo, or Cowboy Country. Ranches and farms are serious business in this part of Hawaii, and if you have a longer vacation you can even plan a farm stay vacation in this area of the Big Island.
You will pass by the largest privately owned ranch in Hawaii and one of the largest in the whole USA. The Parker Ranch has history going back 160 years. 130,000 acres stretch from this high land, all the way down to the sea.
Still a busy, working ranch today, it produces the great tasting beef Hawaiian restaurants serve. You can tour two of the original ranch houses for free if you have the time.
Continuing on Route 190 for 11 miles, you then turn right onto Waikoloa Road. This drive takes you past high, grassy pastures and, if you are lucky, you might see some goats or, possibly, even a wild donkey. It is definitely not what most people expect to see on a Big Island road trip.
Happy Hour at Waikola
Happy hour is a popular practice in Hawaii, and it is a relaxing way to wind down the first day of your Big Island road trip.
Tommy Bahamas
When you get back to Route 19, turn right and go up to the Mauna Lani Shopping Center for a Mai Tai and tasty puu puu’s (appetizers) at Happy Hour at Tommy Bahamas.
Happy hour prices are the best of the day, and often there is a free hula show in the late afternoon in the middle of the shopping center! You may enjoy the cheap and delicious appetizers so much that you’ll decide to fill up and bypass dinner. This option is so budget friendly that I suggested in my Big Island budget guide.
Lava Lava Beach Club
Or, if you prefer to get back to the water, continue straight at the stoplight back into Waikoloa Beach. Follow the road around until you are in front of The King’s Shops, the turn right onto Ku’uali’i Place. You will find the beachfront Lava Lava Beach Club at the end of the road. You can watch the sun set (and perhaps see the infamous green flash!) from the patio, while you enjoy your happy hour specials. If you are still hungry, order dinner here.
Hawaii Round the Island Road Trip Day 2 Waikoloa To Hilo
Days 2 and 3 of our Big Island 3 day itinerary takes you south and then up the east coast. Our route will include Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, The Big Island’s other major town Hilo, and sites along the way. By the end of our 3 day Big Island itinerary, we will have circled the entire island.
We will be spending a night along the road, as this part really will be a round the island road trip. Bring a bag with some pajamas and your toiletries. Once again, wear or bring your bathing suit, a hat, tennis or hiking shoes, and sunscreen. If you prefer to have a more upscale dinner, bring a suitable change of clothes. You will probably want those binoculars again too!
Breakfast
Start your day with 100% Kona coffee and breakfast (maybe their famous cinnamon rolls and pull-a-parts) at Island Lava Java. In Waikoloa, they are at 68-1845 Waikoloa Rd. In you stayed in Kona, you’ll find them at 75-5801 Ali’i Drive, Bldg 1 in the Coconut Grove Shopping Center. They open at 7:00, so grab something to go, as this is a very busy day.
Hawaii’s Coffee Country
Ready to go? Head south on the Māmalahoa Highway (Route 11) about 12 miles. This is coffee country— 650 farms covering 3,500 acres cultivate Kona’s famous coffee on the hills here. Coffee growing, and drinking, has become a central part of the culture, and learning a bit more about it should be a part of every Big Island 3 day itinerary.
Greenwell Farms
Stop to learn about Kona coffee’s history, science, and culture with a free tour at Greenwell Farms. This plantation is one of the oldest on the island. Sip some more coffee and, perhaps purchase some to take home.
Greenwell is located in the town Kaleakua, and could be easy to miss. Once you pass McDonalds and the Post Office, pay attention to when the road begins to slope down. After that look for the white building with small green signs. You’ll see several other farms and tasting rooms along the road.
Tip: Greenwell tours are not offered until 10:00, so if you were able to hit the road at 7:00, head to Kaleakula Bay first. After some time in the water make the short trip back to Greenwell Farms.
Kaleakula Bay
Continue along Route 11 to Kealakekua Bay and Captain Cook. This is where Captain Cook arrived in 1779 and where he was later killed.
When you get to town, Route 11 will turn left, but go straight you’ll come to Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park. If you like to snorkel or just would like to have a quick morning swim, this is a good place to do it. Depending on your personal taste, you may find this to be the most beautiful place on your entire round the island road trip.
It’s going to be a busy day so the 2 1/2 hour hike to the Captain Cook Statue would be good for another day! If you are staying for more than 3 days on the Big Island, you may want to come back to make the hike, and for more snorkeling.
If you have more time, and you want to spend a half a day sailing and snorkeling at Kaleakula Bay, with gear provided, you can make arrangements now.
South Point Hawaii
From here, back on Route 11, the next 51 miles are hilly twists and turns snaking along, up above the shoreline. It is beautiful drive that ends at South Point (or properly called Kalae), the southern-most point in the United States.
Turn off Route 11 on the narrow, but well-marked road and travel in about 12 miles. It gets kinda surreal when you pass through a field of huge wind generators. At the parking lot at the end of the road, you will be standing on top of some steep cliffs.
Papkolea Beach
You may be more adventurous than me and want to take a 5.5 mile hike. I was satisfied just standing at the southern-most point. If you do want to hike, from the parking lot, the trail will take you to the Papakōlea Green Sand Beach. The truth is, the beach is more of an olivey-brown color, but up close, the sand crystals are green.
Swimming is not recommended here due to treacherous tides. Make sure your Big Island road trip starts out very early though, so you don’t have to cut yourself short at Volcanoes. You can check green sand beaches off of the bucket list!
Naalehu
Make your way back out to the highway 11 and turn right for a few more miles to the small town of Naalehu. For such a little town, there are some renowned places to eat. The Pahala Bake Shop and Visitor Center is a favorite place for Hawaiian sweet bread and Malasadas.
Lunch at Aloha Mix Food Truck in Naalehu
I’d suggest stopping here to have lunch at the Aloha Mix Food Truck. It is on your right as you drive into town right across from the Bake Shop. Set in a grassy yard with picnic tables, you can get some yummy steak and shrimp, acai bowls and great smoothies or kombucha.
Tip: We parked in the shopping center right north.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Continue for the next 24 miles to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This is an absolute must on any 3 day Big Island itinerary, but check here for the current volcanic activity. Though still considered active, the Kilauea Volcano was quiet when we visited in early 2020 after erupting violently in 2018.
Many areas, including the Jagger Museum are still closed but you can drive the Crater Rim Road, and Chain of Craters Road, through the park down towards the sea. When you check in at the guard gate, they will give you a great map, showing the open roads and areas. There are a number of scenic overlooks and trailheads along the route. Your round the island road trip should include at least one hike at Volcanoes.
Hiking at Volcano National Park
Volcanoes has a number of trails that encompass a variety of landscapes, including crater rims, calderas, devastation areas, and sulphur banks. A favorite is the 1.5 mile round trip Thurston Lava Tube Trail, which passes through an area of lush rainforest and enters the 500 year old lava tube.
There is a gift shop and restaurant at Volcano House. This is close to the entrance and provides a view of the volcano and the steam being released. This view adds an otherworldly aspect to your Big Island 3 day itinerary.
Overnight at Volcanoes National Park?
You may have already had a long enough day and be ready to leave the rest of the drive for tomorrow.
Where to stay Volcano -Hale Ohu Bed and Breakfast
A great place to stay for grown-ups is the beautiful Hale Ohu Bed and Breakfast. It is near Volcano Village (located 5 minutes outside the entrance to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park).
In a rainforest, surrounded by lush garden, and historic home, the rooms here have been renovated and updated with every comfort. The breakfast is wonderful—the owners bake their own bread and serve papaya and pineapple and fresh guava juice!
If you have kids along, consider staying in one of the historic rooms or cabins at Volcano House.
If you are military, there are 90 cottages and apartments at the Kilauea Military Camp
Overnight in Hilo?
If, instead, you want to drive on to Hilo, it’s another 30 miles down the road. There is lush jungley scenery most of the way with some homes and a few small towns.
Ice Cream at Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Corp
About 6 miles before getting to Hilo, you must stop at the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Corp. You’ll drive a couple of miles through the 2,500-acre orchard to get to the visitor’s center. Taste the free samples. On weekdays, you can tour tour the factory.
We stop here on every Big Island road trip for the best chocolate macadamia ice cream in the world! While you eat your ice cream, you can get educated about macadamias by watching the short video that describes the whole, labor-intensive process.
Where to stay in Hilo – Hilo Hawaiian Hotel
I recommend the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel if you choose to stay in Hilo on your 3 day Big Island itinerary. It has gorgeous views of the Hilo Bay. Large, comfortable rooms all have lanai’s (porches) to relax on. From our room, we could see both Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. Looking out over the bay melted all tension and cares. The staff all exhibited the Aloha spirit with their friendliness.
The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls
If you are up for an off-the-grid Splurge, a few miles outside of Hilo is The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls. The 22 acre property is loaded with trails and bamboo and best of all, a beautiful waterfall.
You will also get a yummy breakfast. Nature surrounds you and while you certainly feel like you are in paradise, this is a different experience than sitting on the beach.
Dinner in Hilo
Hilo is a foodies paradise! There are a variety of restaurants offering all types of cuisine. It is a good thing that our Big Island 3 day itinerary gives you at least one night in Hilo to experience this.
Hilo Bay Cafe
If you want something upscale with a view of the Bay, eat at the Hilo Bay Cafe. Pacific Rim cuisine with an edge is served, showcasing some of Hawaii’s best farmers, fisherman, and purveyors.
Moon and Turtle
We also enjoyed Moon and Turtle where the food is served family style, giving everyone the opportunity to enjoy multiple tastes.
Hawaii Round the Island Road Trip Day 3 Hilo to Waikoloa
There is abundant rain and water on this side of the island. One day during our recent visit, Hilo got 20” of rain in 24 hours! This keeps the waterfalls flowing and beautiful. East Hawaii offers many waterfalls that are easily accessed.
Breakfast in Hilo
Breakfast at Ken’s House of Pancakes . It is a Hilo classic and it is open all day. The menu is pages and pages of something for everyone, not just breakfast.
TIP: If you can time your Big Island road trip to get to Hilo on a Tuesday or Friday, you’ll be rewarded by being able to visit the Wednesday or Saturday (BIG-200 booths) Hilo’s Farmer’s Market. On other days 10-50 booths are open. This is the place to buy your souvenirs. You will find jewelry, Aloha shirts and dresses, artwork, foods and more.
Hilo Museums and the Zoo
Hilo is home to several museums, catering to a wide selection of interests. As a central part of the local culture in the city, it is essential to add at least one or two of them during your Big Island 3 day itinerary.
My favorite is the Lyman Museum, which documents the unique history of the many immigrants that have moved to Hawaii and contributed to the diverse culture. Today in Hawaii, no race has a majority. Almost 25% of Hawaiians have two or more races in their background. According to the last census, Hawai’i’s population is 38.6% Asian, 24.7% White, and only 10% is Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islanders. Hispanic, Black or African American, and American Indian and Alaska Native account for the rest.
Other Hilo museums include:
- The Hawaii Plantation Museum with the history of the Sugar Plantations.
- The Imiloa Center for Astronomy with a 120 seat Planetarium and exhibits about Hawaiian culture, the Mauna Kea Volcano and the stars.
- The Mokupāpapa Discovery Center houses a 3500 gallon aquarium and exhibits of nature, culture and ocean conservation of Northern Hawaii.
- The Pacific Tsunami Museum promotes public tsunami education and seeks to preserve history. Hilo has experienced several deadly tsunamis. The Museum serves as a living memorial to those who lost their lives in past tsunami events.
The museums do have entry fees.
And BUDGET TIP: The free Pana’ewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens houses over 80 rainforest and endangered Hawaii animals and is home to a large botanical garden.
As you can see, it would be easy to spend a whole day, just visiting these site, but they will not all fit into our 3 day Big Island road trip. We have much more to see on this side of the island—so pick one or two.
Rainbow Falls
A few minutes from downtown Hilo is Wailuku River State Park, where you’ll find Rainbow Falls and Boiling Pots. Most days, especially in the morning, you can see the rainbow in the mist as the falls cascade. There is an easy trail to hike up to the top. This is an island favorite, and a must for any Big Island road trip on the east side.
Enjoy and soak in Mother Nature’s gift and then head back through Hilo to Route 19 (Hawaii Belt Road) and turn left, going north.
Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden
Head North of Hilo and the Onomea Scenic Drive. After the mile 7 marker, you’ll see a road to the right leading down the “Onomea Scenic Drive.” It’s a 4-mile loop road across several one-lane wooden bridges. Even those not circling the full island make a short Big Island road trip here. You’ll see the Hawaiʻi Tropical Botanical Garden before returning to Hawaiʻi Belt Road at mile 10 in Pepeʻekeō.
This is another worth-it splurge. This is my very favorite place to visit during a Big Island 3 day itinerary, near Hilo: Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden comprises forty acres, overlooking Onomea Bay. It has over 2000 species of plants identified with little signs along hiking trails.
There is an entrance fee of $25 for adults and $12 for children but it is totally worth it!
Akaka Falls
Continue on the scenic drive north and you’ll once again be on Route 19. Turn right and head north to Route 220. Here, you’ll find Akaka Falls State Park, with the gorgeous 422 foot Akaka Falls.
There are good, easy paths to walk with Instagram- worthy views of the falls on a half-mile loop trail. There is a $5 per vehicle entrance fee.
Umauma Falls
A little further north on Route 19, are the triple-tiered Umauma Falls. For the adventurous, there are zipline tours or it’s an easy self-guided hike. If you make arrngements in advance, and get to Umauma early, you could fit the zipline tour in on your Big Island 3 day itinerary.
If you prefer to zipline over the beautiful Umauma Falls, you can make reservations right now.
Lunch at Tex Drive In
Route 19 takes you through the hills with tall eucalyptus trees and jungle to the left. To the right you’ve have a high ocean view. We’ll come to the town Honokaa soon, and the Waipi’o Lookout and Valley are at the northernmost end of this road.
But, first, If you’ve gotten hungry or just need a snack, stop at the famous Tex Drive In . Known for freshly baked Malasadas, you can also get “ono Kine grindz” (local Hawaiian food). Or order some food and have a picnic when you get to the Waipi’o Overlook.
Honokaa
Down the hill from Route 19 is the little town of Honokaa. More restaurants and shops with locally made crafts, gifts, jewelry, and antique/thrift stores populate a few blocks. After spending a little time here, take the main street (HI-240) to the the northernmost tip of the island, the Waipi’o Valley.
Waipo Overlook
The road takes you to a parking lot and viewing area. The road does continue but it is a rutted, steep, narrow road that can only navigated with a 4 wheel drive vehicle. Even so, it is a view that must be seen on any 3 day Big Island itinerary. You can take gorgeous pictures of you at the Overlook with the 2000 ft. cliffs in the background.
To really see this part of the island requires a helicopter unless you are up for a three day hike. Definitely a splurge.
If you want to see the Big Island, including the Waipo Valley by helicopter, you can make arrangements right now.
Waimea
Take Honokaa-Waipio Rd (HI-240) back to Honokaa and get back on Route 19 for about 14 miles back into Waimea. We’ve always enjoyed stopping at Isaacs Art Center to browse the wood furniture and artwork. More museum-like than a store, the pieces here are examples of using local woods to create magnificent works of art. This town has some fun antique/thrift shops and shops with local art and jewelry. Nice selections, not touristy knick-knacks.
Dinner in Waimea
Is your stomach growling? You are in luck! You need a good meal before winding down your Big Island road trip. Waimea has restaurants to fit all tastes and price ranges. Here are my favorite:
Merriman’s
The Splurge: You may want to treat yourself at least once on your Big Island road trip, and this is your chance. Merriman’s offers the best fine dining on the island for lunch and dinner. Meals are Hawaii Regional Cuisine incorporating all things local. Be adventurous and expect to be delighted. Merriman’s is located at: 65-1227 Opelo Road
Fish and The Hog
If you just want lots of basic options cooked Hawaii-style with fresh local ingredients at a reasonable cost. Fish and The Hog is a great choice for this.
With wood floors and a relaxed setting, there are two rooms filled with tables and a bar. Enjoy the fresh fish, BBQ, Burgers and more. The sticky ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender and tangy. Fish and The Hog is located at 64-957 Mamalahoa Highway.
The Village Burger
Do you love burgers? The Village Burger has an awesome, delicious variety. It is one of our favorites, and a must on a round the island road trip. While the ground brisket and chuck Big Island Burger, described as beefy, robust and arrogant, is one of the best burgers I’ve ever had, there’s more. How about a Lamb Burger with braised onions and kalamata olive tapenade? Or, maybe a veal or fish burger? Or a Wagyu Burger? It’s all here in a take out setting. There are a few outdoor tables or ample seating inside at the food court. The Village Burger is located at Parker Ranch Shopping Center
Back to Waikola
Now that your tummy is full, wrap up your 3 days on the Big Island with a good night’s sleep in Waikola for a sunshiny day tomorrow! From Waimea, head south on Route 190 (Mamalaho Highway). Drive 11 miles on Route 190 and then turn right onto Waikoloa Road and it will take you home.
Final Thoughts on our Big Island Road Trip
I hope you enjoy this Big Island 3 day itinerary as much as I did. The Big Island is big and diverse with culture and history that extend past the great beaches and palm trees! With good planning, you can experience a bit of all the there is, even with a mere 3 days on the Big Island. Aloha.
Thinking about other Hawaii travels? You may like our other stories:
- A Week on Oahu
- An Oahu Budget Guide
- Things to Do on Oahu North Shore
- 5 Fabulous Days in Maui
- A Big Island Budget Guide
- Cruising Around Kauai
- Waimea Canyon State Park
- NaPali Coast State Park
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About the Author
“If you’re not enjoying yourself, you’re doing it wrong” is Joeann Fossland’s motto. Bitten by the travel bug in the 70’s and she spent a year traveling the country with two small children. Since then, she has lived in a tipi at 8500’ with no running water or electricity for 18 months, explored 4 continents, 26 countries and dozens of beaches and islands. Seduced by her love of travel, Joeann loves to share travel insights and adventures to inspire others to make their dreams come true. Hawaii is her favorite place, and a Big Island road trip is one of her favorite ways to experience it. You can find more from Joeann on her website, Joeann’s View, on Facebook, on Twitter, and on Pinterest.
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