Visiting the Big Island of Hawaii in the fall offers a unique experience characterized by fewer crowds, pleasant weather, and a range of prestigious events such as the Ironman World Championships and Kona Coffee Cultural Festival. We have put together a fantastic 5-day autumn Big Island itinerary where travelers can enjoy the variety and diversity of the island's stunning regions.

Be sure to also check out our list of fun Island of Hawaii events happening this fall.

Day 1: Kona Coast & Coffee Country

The Kona Coast of the Big Island offers a diverse array of activities that cater to all types of travelers. There are some amazing snorkeling and scuba diving spots in crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant marine life. The coastline is also home to the famous night dives with manta rays, allowing you to swim alongside these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. It can be a bit spooky jumping in the open ocean at night, so this seems like a fitting adventure to schedule around Halloween.

As most of us are aware, Kona is world famous for their coffee beans. There are dozens of coffee plantations in Kona, many of which offer guided farm tours that will teach visitors about the growing and harvesting process. The Kona Coffee Cultural Festival is celebrating its 53rd anniversary in early November. The 10-day event has all sorts of unique community events such as parades, tastings, talks, farm tours, and more. Purchase some coffee beans on day one that you can then brew up during the rest of your vacation!

Lastly, head to the Kona Farmers Market, where you can find fresh local produce. Celebrate harvest season island-style with selections of tropical fruits and vegetables. If you are lucky, you may be able to pick up an island-grown pumpkin or two!

Day 2: Volcanoes National Park

When you think of autumn, the colors of red, yellow, and orange come to mind. We can’t think of a better place to witness these colors in Hawaii through the display of molten lava! Visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a captivating experience that immerses you in the dynamic landscape shaped by volcanic activity.

The park features two of the world's most active volcanoes, Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, offering visitors a chance to witness the raw power of nature firsthand. One of the highlights is the Halemaʻumaʻu Crater, where you can often see the glow of molten lava, particularly at night, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.

The Chain of Craters Road provides a scenic drive that leads you past numerous craters and lava flows, showcasing the park's geological history. For those who enjoy hiking, trails like the Kīlauea Iki Trail allow you to walk across a solidified lava lake, while the Thurston Lava Tube offers a unique underground adventure through ancient lava formations.

Day 3: Beach Day

While fall temperatures start to drop around most of the United States, Hawaii enjoys tropical temperatures pretty much year-round. Take advantage of the warm days and inviting ocean waters by spending a solid day at the beach. Whether you like to snorkel, play in the waves, or lounge in colorful sand, we have a whole write-up on our favorite Big Island beaches.

Hapuna Beach State Park is often celebrated for its expansive white sands and gentle waves, making it perfect for swimming and sunbathing, while Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach provides a striking contrast with its dark sands and is a great spot for spotting Hawaiian green sea turtles basking in the sun. For those seeking adventure, Kua Bay (Manini'owali Beach) features crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling and swimming, surrounded by dramatic lava rock landscapes.

Two Step Beach at Honaunau Bay is renowned for its excellent snorkeling opportunities, where visitors can explore vibrant coral reefs just steps from the shore. Additionally, Waialea Bay, also known as Beach 69, offers a more secluded experience with calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Each beach on the Big Island presents its own charm, so we encourage you to try a few beaches to see which one you enjoy the most.

Day 4: Explore Hilo

Hilo, located on the lush eastern side of The Island of Hawaii, offers a wealth of activities that showcase its natural beauty and rich culture. Visitors can marvel at the breathtaking Akaka Falls, a 442-foot waterfall surrounded by tropical rainforest, and take a short hike to the equally stunning Rainbow Falls, known for its vibrant rainbows on sunny mornings. Additionally, exploring the Kaumana Caves, a fascinating lava tube formed by volcanic activity, offers a unique underground adventure.

Hilo is also home to the Big Island’s zoo. Interact with animals from around the world and on Saturdays a special petting zoo is opened up to allow kids to touch chickens, guinea pigs, sheep, goats, miniature horses, pigs, and other friendly animals. A Boo at the Zoo event scheduled on October 26th and 27th can be a fun opportunity to show off that Halloween costume or score some trick-o-treat candy while on vacation!

For those interested in science and astronomy, the ʻImiloa Astronomy Center provides engaging exhibits about Hawaiian culture, celestial navigation, and the universe. Kids will love the hands-on exhibits that encourage them to learn more about the sky above.

Day 5: Drive North & End the Day at Mauna Kea

The Big Island is large, and each region offers a different climate, setting, and vibe. Spend the first half of your day driving north to the charming town of Hawi. Explore eclectic boutiques and enjoy delicious meals at charming restaurants nestled among colorful plantation buildings. We highly recommend lunch at Bamboo Restaurant which has an impressive history and even more memorable tiki themed décor. Cap off your drive north with a stop at Pololū Valley Overlook, which provide a stunning backdrop to your Hawaiian adventure.

Save some energy for an evening under the stars. Mauna Kea is the highest peak on the Big Island of Hawaii, close to 14,000 feet above sea level. Drive up the volcano and plan to be at the summit for sunset where you can witness different colors and hues reflect off the blanket of clouds below.

After the sun goes down, the night has the potential to get even more memorable. Public star gazing events are held numerous nights of the week. On clear nights you can see thousands of stars filling the night sky. Guides will point lasers at certain constellations and significant stars allowing participants to get close-up looks through portable telescopes. It will be a night to remember if the conditions are right!