Hopping Through Paradise: 8-Day Hawaii Itinerary – Big Island to Oahu (Days 1-4)
Hawaii is one of those destinations that seems to have it all—stunning landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences. If you’re planning a trip to the Aloha State, this 8-day itinerary will guide you through the best of both the Big Island and Oahu. Whether you’re hiking through volcanic craters, lounging on pristine beaches, or diving into Hawaiian history, this trip has it all. Here’s how we made the most of our time in paradise.
Day 1: Arrival in Kona – Big Island
Day 2: Volcanoes National Park Exploration
Volcanoes National Park Highlights:
Volcano National Park Sign:
Snap a photo at the entrance to this world-renowned park, where you’ll begin your adventure.
Halema‘uma‘u Crater Overlook:
Standing at the Halema‘uma‘u Crater Overlook, we were awestruck by the sheer magnitude and raw power of one of the most active volcanoes in the world. The crater, nestled within the vast Kīlauea Caldera, is a breathtaking sight that showcases the fiery heart of the Big Island.
The contrast of the barren, scorched landscape against the vibrant greenery surrounding the area is nothing short of stunning. If you’re lucky enough to visit at night, the glowing red lava deep within the crater creates an unforgettable spectacle that lights up the dark sky. This is truly a testament to the ever-evolving nature of Hawaii’s volcanic landscape, offering a rare glimpse into the dynamic forces that continue to shape the island.
Sulphur Banks:
Although the sulfur vents were closed during our visit in December, the Sulphur Banks are a fascinating geothermal site. The ground here releases sulfuric gases, creating a unique, almost mystical atmosphere. This area is named for the sulfuric smell in the air, and it’s a testament to the island’s volcanic activity.
Volcano House:
A historic hotel offering incredible views of Kīlauea Caldera, the Volcano House is an excellent place to stop and take in the scenery. You can also grab a bite to eat while overlooking the active crater.
Kīlauea Iki Crater Hike:
This 3.3-mile (5.3 km) loop takes you across the Kīlauea Iki Crater, where you’ll walk on a hardened lava surface, surrounded by lush rainforest. As one of the most active volcanoes in the world, this hike offers a truly unique experience. You can also visit Nāhuku (Thurston Lava Tube), an illuminated cave-like tunnel that was formed by molten lava.
Chain of Craters Road:
Drive along this scenic route, taking in the spectacular vistas and stopping at lookouts like Luamanu Crater, Pauahi Crater, Mauna Ulu Lookout, and the Holai Sea Arch.
Hōlei Sea Arch:
At the end of Chain of Craters Road, take a short walk to see the impressive Hōlei Sea Arch. This striking natural formation, standing 90 feet tall, is a beautiful reminder of the power of volcanic forces that shape the island.
Punalu‘u Black Sand Beach:
The black sand at this beach, formed from volcanic lava, was soft and warm underfoot. We spent some time relaxing, watching green sea turtles bask in the sun, and listening to the soothing sound of the waves.
Punaluʻu Bake Shop:
Stop by this charming bakery, the southernmost in the United States, for their famous malasadas—delicious, freshly fried Portuguese donuts. It’s the perfect snack to fuel your next adventure.
Day 3: Kona & Flight to Oahu
Breakfast at Papa Kona Restaurant & Bar:
Located by the beach, Papa Kona Restaurant offers a perfect setting for breakfast. Their macadamia nut pancakes are a must-try—light, fluffy, and packed with flavor.
Greenwell Kona Coffee Farm Tour:
Our next stop was the Greenwell Kona Coffee Farm, nestled in the heart of Kona’s coffee-growing region. This free, hour-long tour was a delightful experience. It took us through the lush coffee plantation. The air was filled with the rich, earthy aroma of coffee beans.
We learned about every step of the coffee-making process. From planting and harvesting to roasting the perfect beans, the guides covered it all. Their passion shone through as they shared fascinating insights into the history of Kona coffee and the farm’s legacy. The tour was both informative and enjoyable.
The highlight? Sampling the freshest cup of Kona coffee right on the farm—smooth, aromatic, and absolutely delicious. It was a true taste of paradise and an unmissable experience for any coffee lover visiting the Big Island.
Magic Sands Beach & Kohanaiki Beach Park:
After the coffee tour, we made our way to Magic Sands Beach. The turquoise waters were perfect for a swim, and we spent some time lounging in the sun, soaking in the laid-back vibe of Kona.
If Magic Sands Beach feels crowded, head to Kohanaiki Beach Park, also known as Pine Tree Surfing Beach. This less-visited spot is perfect for watching surfers or simply relaxing by the shore. The tranquil atmosphere makes it a great place to soak up the sun.
Flight to Oahu:
After a short flight, we landed in Honolulu, eager to dive into Oahu’s vibrant atmosphere. For dinner, we stopped by Big Kahuna’s Pizza. The pizza was hearty and delicious, served in a relaxed setting. We then checked into the Prince Waikiki for the rest of the trip. The luxurious ambiance and ocean views made for a great start to our Oahu adventure.
Bonus Day Idea: Snorkeling with Manta Rays & Mauna Kea Hike
If you have an additional day on the Big Island, there are two unforgettable experiences that are absolutely worth adding to your itinerary.
Day 4: Exploring Honolulu & Waikiki
Diamond Head Hike:
We woke up early to hike Diamond Head, Oahu’s iconic volcanic crater overlooking Honolulu. This moderately challenging 2-hour hike is one of Oahu’s most famous activities, and for good reason. The trail winds its way up the crater, offering a rewarding journey with panoramic views that span Waikiki Beach, the city’s skyline, and the vast Pacific Ocean. Reaching the summit just as the sun began to rise was absolutely breathtaking, with the golden hues casting a magical glow over the landscape. Getting there early not only ensured we avoided the crowds but also allowed us to experience the beauty of the sunrise in peace—a moment we’ll never forget.
Breakfast at Sunrise Shack:
After the hike, treat yourself to a delicious acai bowl at Sunrise Shack, located just a short drive from Diamond Head. This popular spot serves acai bowls topped with tropical fruit, granola, and macadamia nut butter—perfect for a healthy and refreshing post-hike meal.
Pearl Harbor National Memorial:
Visiting the USS Arizona Memorial was a profoundly moving experience. The serenity of the waters, combined with the powerful history of the site, left a lasting impact on us. We spent time exploring the exhibits, which provided deep insight into the attack on Pearl Harbor and the resilience of those who lived through it.
Lunch in Chinatown & Dinner at Marugame Udon:
For lunch, we explored Honolulu’s vibrant Chinatown. It’s a bustling area filled with lively markets and authentic eateries. We enjoyed a taste of both local and international flavors. Later, we headed to Marugame Udon at the Honolulu International Market Place for dinner. Known for its freshly made udon noodles, the restaurant serves these delectable noodles with a variety of flavorful broths and toppings. While the line at Marugame Udon was long, it moved surprisingly fast, and the wait was well worth it. The fresh, handmade noodles paired with rich, savory broths made for a comforting and satisfying end to the day.
Ready to continue the adventure?
Head over to Part 2: Oahu Adventures (Days 5-8) to discover the best of Oahu, from Kualoa Ranch to the North Shore!
