The Big Island of Hawaii is home to five volcanoes and offers a diverse landscape as well as some of the most unique experiences on the islands. Due to its size, it also poses a challenge for anyone planning a vacation there and looking to get as much out of a short stay as possible.
Anneke Marchese
Anneke Marchese, owner of AM|FM Luxury + Adventure Travel in Bend, Oregon, started her business nine years ago after her first visit to the Big Island. This was the first island she visited in Hawaii, but she has since been to every island you can visit. She holds a Master Specialist Certificate and a Malama Experience Certificate from the Big Island of Hawaii.
Marchese was happy to share with Travel Weekly readers her knowledge of the island and how she tailors trips for clients.
Question : For people who have never been to the Big Island, what do you think are the biggest differences between traveling there and the other islands?
A: The first thing I always explain to them is that the Big Island is not Oahu, like Pearl Harbor is. Let's just make sure we all know that this is indeed the Big Island, the largest island in the chain. Plus, he's the youngest. I also say it's the most rugged type of terrain and really allows you to be active and connect with nature while still having plenty of land to explore.
It really is a double island. There are 10 microclimates you'll experience as you cross the island, so it's best to experience it in two parts. Part of your time will be spent on what the locals call the Kona side, and part of your time will be spent on what the locals call the Hilo side.
Photo credit: Jenn Martins
Question : What do you consider to be a perfect Big Island itinerary?
A: I usually take people to Kona. We will spend three, four or five nights in Waikoloa or Kona, possibly splitting them up. Some people will stay near Captain Cook and Kealakekua Bay and then also up north, for example Mauna Kea (Resort) or Hapuna. I think it's a really awesome route if we can get people to share even this part.
Then I encourage them to drive across the island. …If they can stay in Hilo for a few days, we will normally have them leave Hilo the morning of the last day, fly to Honolulu to spend a day at Pearl Harbor, and fly home in the evening.
Question : You talked about dividing the island. Is it also common to divide each side of the island?
A: If I can convince people to do it, yes; It's really a question of timing. If people have a week, some give me time to spend two nights in the Keauhou area, Captain Cook area, like three nights in Waikoloa up north and then two nights in Hilo. I really think it's the most comprehensive and gives you that diversity, because otherwise you're really missing something.
Question : How often do guests ask you about the Big Island compared to the other islands? Is there a lot of demand?
A: It is still not as popular as the other islands. I feel like I have a higher conversion rate with those who have already been to the islands and want to experience a new island or maybe haven't been and heard good things about it.
Question : What are the main activities visitors can do on the Big Island?
A: If you go to the island of Hawaii, you must swim with the manta rays; this should not be missed.
A favorable wind And Sea Quest are two operators I would recommend – although I prefer working with a naturalist at Mauna Kea Resort, where you can swim up to manta rays without a boat. …If you are afraid of entering the water, sit at the Fairmont OrchidFeet in the sandbar at nightfall and you'll see them splashing in the lights.
I also visited the salt farm at Kona Sea Saltwhich sounds so weird, but it's great if you have to take a flight and you're just trying to do something and see something you've never seen before.
Morning coffee overlooking Kulaniapia Falls in Hilo. Photo credit: Courtesy Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA)/Heather Goodman
I give my clients a hiking guide, so I encourage them to get out and explore. Visiting coffee plantations, like Greenwell Farms, and of course spending time at the beach (are also recommended).
Question : How many days should people plan to spend in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park?
A: I like two days. I mean, a full day if you can, like a full day from morning to sunset, like after dark. So at least a full day in the park.
If they have mobility issues, you can do two hours in the morning and maybe an hour or two in the evening, but I always encourage them to stop and have a glass of wine at Volcano House and watch the glow occur. (At the time of publication, the volcano is not erupting and there is no glow.)
When I invite people to experience Volcanoes National Park with a guide, I feel like it makes a big difference, especially since the Jaggar Museum is not available. (The Volcano Science Museum was damaged during the 2018 Kilauea eruption; a reopening is planned, but no date has yet been announced.)
Question : Have you found any guides for the national park?
A: Yeah, so usually Hawaii Forest and Trail has guides that work very well. I love them.
Question : Are you trying to find guests a place to stay near the park? Or are they going back to Hilo?
A: It depends. If some people need a hotel, room service, those kinds of things, then of course they go back to the Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo. If they are a little more robust, there are some lovely hostels locally that I recommend.
Question : Is there anything else you would like to share with advisors and their clients?
A: Travel mindfully, please unfollow Instagram. There are some super sacred places that should remain sacred. …I ensure that all travelers who go to the islands, but more particularly to the big island, do so Pono Commitment. I feel like it's super important.
