There’s never a shortage of things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii. You can swim with manta rays, hike through a lush rainforest and swim in a waterfall, watch molten lava flow as you soar above the island in a helicopter, zip through the tree tops, speed over the ocean in search of whales, dolphins, and other marine life before snorkeling and discovering the life below, or go a little deeper while scuba diving. While the options are endless, here are my top five Big Island adventures:
Manta Ray Night Snorkel with Hula Kai Adventures
The manta ray night snorkel was voted “one of the top 10 things to do in your life” by the Travel Channel! As the vessel’s diving lights shine through the crystal-clear water, these gentle giants arrive to feed on plankton. Jump in the water for a once-in-a-lifetime chance to night snorkel with Hawaii’s friendly manta rays.
Big Island Kohala Canopy Zipline Adventure
Swing across the lush trees of North Kohala and get a bird’s-eye view of the Big Island’s tropical forest! Experience the thrill of rushing through the air on this state-of-the-art, nine-line zipline system. Whether you are a zipline enthusiast or a first-time adventure-seeker, this Kohala zipline adventure in Kapaau, a small town on the northern tip of the Big Island, will be an exhilarating experience you’ll never forget!
Paradise Helicopters Tours
This exclusive Big Island helicopter tour includes not only wonderful views of Hawaii’s famous volcanoes, but also a private landing in a secluded location so you can enjoy your own piece of paradise! The three-hour adventure starts with a flight over Kilauea in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Kilauea is one of the most active volcanoes on the planet and often spews lava from its crater. Then fly north to the lush Kohala Coast, where you will land in a remote area and enjoy your own private paradise for an hour.
Captain Zodiac Raft Cruises
Skim across the waves on an exciting Big Island Zodiac tour to Kealakekua Bay, site of the Captain Cook monument and Hawaii’s finest marine sanctuary. Snorkel with a rainbow of tropical fish among beautiful coral gardens in the bay’s clear, crystal waters. Enjoy the delightful picnic snack provided before you head out again, exploring vast sea caves, lava tubes and the rugged beauty of the coastline. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch a close up glimpse of Hawaii’s marine life.
Deluxe Morning Snorkel & Dive Cruise with Hula Kai Adventures
Hula Kai is the Big Island’s newest snorkel and diving vessel –designed and built specifically for those seeking Hawaii’s ultimate snorkel and dive adventure. Hula Kai’s unique Hydrofoil Technology allows for faster speeds and smoother rides than other conventional catamarans. Many remote and exotic destinations are now easily accessible. This is an adventure not to be missed!
Bucket List Publications 
I would love to do that night Manta dive!!!!!
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It was one of the best adventures of my life! Considering the price tag isn’t excessive, I’d suggest everyone visiting Hawaii make it part of their trip. It’s well worth it. 🙂
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Every one of them an adventure!
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Thanks. We’re on our way there this week and will check out the Manta dive!
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I can’t wait to hear about it. Please share your experiences! It was one of the best water experiences of my life.
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Having just returned home from Hawaii I know what you’re talking about! I love Hawaii!
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It’s so unbelievable, isn’t it? What was your favorite experience there?
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wow!
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I was just in Hawaii myself – beautiful location 🙂
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Which island did you visit?
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Oahu for the first week and Maui for the second.
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Awesome…!! 🙂
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Also: Hawaii Volcanic National Park is a jewell. For folks interested in Hawaiian culture, there are some great petroglyph sites. –Curt
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Pingback: 5 Best Big Island Tours « donniebishop
Some of us, it appears, sure know how to have FUN!
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This seem really exciting, invite me next time….. oh snap. I cant swim. :)))
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We went there years ago for three weeks. Loved it. Going to have to play the Florida Lottery, then win, to try some of your activities. My sister did the helicopter tour. Apparently she didn’t know they were filming her and her potty mouth. Hysterical.
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I have to watch my language now that I have a little copycat for a daughter. It’s amazing what she picks up. Which island did you visit?
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Would love to do the night snorkel with the mantas- have been to other tropical locales hoping to see one and haven’t yet- this seems like a can’t miss.
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It was my favorite water adventure ever! If you get the chance, don’t miss it. What was your favorite tropical destination?
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I’m from Hawai’i, and this post is spot on! You really did a great job of highlighting fun things to do for active visitors.
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What’s your favorite Hawaiian adventure? I’d love to hear your thoughts.
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Hmm…that’s a tough one. It isn’t on the Big Island, but I think hiking the Kalalau Trail on Kauai is a must (during the dry season) for any of the outdoorsy/athletic types!
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Great post! I have been to the Big Island twice and really enjoyed it both times. My favorite was visiting the Pololu Valley Lookout, right next to Hawi in the north. There is a black sand beach and incredible hiking along the valleys and ridges, it was awesome! It looked a lot like your picture of the Paradise Helicopter Tour. Also, the Ironman World Championship makes Kailua come alive every October 🙂
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Have you visited the other islands too? I’ve only been to The Big Island but I’m definitely returning for more.
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Nah, unfortunately just the Big Island… and I’d also love to return some day for more! Currently in Korea and will dedicate my travels to SE Asia though first!
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Been to the Big Island twice and stayed at The Mauna Lani – Paradise!… and you feel such a strong spiritual connection there. One thing I wanted to do but didn’t get the chance was that Night Swim with the Rays…..if I go back, I am determined to do it!! Congrats on a great trip and a great post ❤
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Don’t miss it next time. It was the best water adventure of my life. Have you been to any of the other islands?
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Not being quite as adventurous as you, I probably wouldn’t have done this dive on my own. Yet, I was inspired by your post and my “I’ll do anything” husband to try the Manta Dive. It was amazing. Such huge creatures, yet so gentle.
We spent most of our HI time on the Big Island and loved it – great hiking, beaches and golf. My favorite thing was hiking the Awini Trail in the Pololu Valley – past the black sand beach and up to the next ridge. Absolutely breathtaking views.
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