7 Free Things to Do on the Big Island of Hawaii for an Epic Adventure
Planning to visit the glorious Islands of Hawaii?
Over the past decade, I’ve been fortunate to visit Hawaii multiple times to reconnect with family and friends. Each island has its own unique charm, but the Big Island holds a particularly special place in my heart.
As Hawaii’s largest island, the Big Island is also one of the least visited, making it the perfect escape from crowded spots and tourist traps. Here’s my curated list of favorite free things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii:
Top Free Things to Do on the Big Island
👉 Hike to Waipiʻo Valley
👉 Visit ‘Akaka Falls
👉 Visit Lili’uokalani Gardens
Free Things To Do on The Big Island for Spring Break
The Big Island is renowned for its volcanic landscapes, stunning black sand beaches, and world-class golf courses—offering something for everyone on this diverse island! While a trip to Hawaii can be a splurge, there are plenty of free activities to help you experience the island’s beauty without breaking the bank. Here are a few must-see spots to add to your itinerary!
1. Visit ‘Akaka Falls
‘Akaka Falls are also easy to get to with a ½ mile well maintained path, perfect for folks of all ages and athletic ability. The parking lot for ‘Akaka fills up quickly, if you can’t find parking you should be OK to park on the shoulder of the road as long as you don’t stay very long.
Shan’s Tip: ‘Akaka Falls is a 30 minute drive just north of the Rainbow Falls. The ‘Akaka Falls does have an entry fee of $5 for non-residents.
2. Visit Rainbow Falls
Located around 20 minutes north of Hilo, Rainbow Falls is a gorgeous waterfall. I’d recommend visiting early in the morning to catch a rainbow and to avoid crowds. This is a perfect activity for folks of all ages and athletic ability since the walk is less than .2 miles.
3. Enjoy Lili’uokalani Gardens
A wonderful gem on the island, the Lili’uokalani Gardens is right in Hilo. The last time I visited I just grabbed some take out from Two Ladies Kitchen and had a picnic in the Garden.
4. Tour Parker Ranch Historic Buildings
If you’re not up for horseback riding or hunting, Parker Ranch offers elaborate tours onsite. I was able to tour without a reservation but I was also visiting in the middle of summer.
I recommend still booking a time slot to be safe, once you arrive the team will give you a detailed guide for you to use on the self-guided tour of the historic buildings.
5. Discover the Petroglyphs
The Puakō petroglyph preserve is on the Northwest side of the Island. When I visited there were a few families having their own scavenger hunt trying to find the Petroglyphs. Please be mindful of the historic significance when visiting and be respectful of the land.
6. Tour the Hamakua Macadamia Nut Company
The visitor center is open all year long and allows you to walk around the facility for free. If you’re hoping to see the folks hard at work in the factory, try stopping by during the week.
7. Hike to Waipiʻo Valley
The main road leading to Waipi’o Valley is known to be the steepest with its length in the United States.The road has been closed sporadically the past few years due to local politics and construction.
This road is no joke! Bring plenty of water and snacks to get down and up the road safely. I recommend going early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid midday heat. As of fall 2024, access to the valley is limited to locals only.
Final Thoughts
The Big Island of Hawaii is an incredible destination year-round. Whether you’re snorkeling at vibrant beaches, hiking through lush valleys, or supporting local farms, you’re sure to have the trip of a lifetime. Do you want to explore a hidden gem in the Caribbean? Consider adding Montserrat Island to your bucket list to visit their incredible beaches.
Now it’s time to start planning your own adventure, Cheers!
