5 Things to know when visiting the Big Island

To capitalize on your Hawaiian vacation we have compiled a life of 5 tips to know when visiting the Big Island. 

The Big Island is home to 11 of the 13 climate zones that exist on the globe. Each nook of the island has its own charm and feel to it.

1. 1. Rent a vehicle. If you really want to experience all that this island has to offer, you will need some wheels to get yourself around. The island is big and most of the main attractions are spread apart. Taxis are expensive and uber is sparse. So if you want to see all of extraordinary sites on the island, do yourself a favor and follow the number one tip for visiting the Big Island.
   2. Spend at least a week on the island. It takes awhile to get to this beautiful piece of paradise in the middle of the pacific. If you really want to get the most out of your experience, budget more time to get to and from the various locations on this island. 
   3. Research your desired activities. There are an abundance of attractions on this island. We suggest making a list all of the attractions on the island that appeal to you most. To optimize your time, look at which destinations are close on the map so that you can knock a few off your list in the same day.
      1. Recommended must do activities:
         1. Paddle Kealakekua Bay
         2. Manta Ray Night snorkel
         3. Wapio Valley
         4. Waterfalls in Hilo
   4. Pick activities based on your ability. While it is definitely fun to explore new options, you want to be able to fully enjoy the activity that you are paying for. Match your desired activity with your physical abilities. Remember that the guides are there to keep you safe and best facilitate your experience. Also be sure to ask the guides for any tips they may have on activities to do.
   5. Be mindful of the cosmetic products you put on your body while here. The Island of Hawaii is known for its natural beauty. Chemicals and non-natural products pose a threat to the livelihood of the local environment. We want this island to continue to be a travel destination for years to come. To best preserve the environment we need to reduce the impact we have on the environment. Check out our blog post of the importance of reef-safe sunscreen.

This is just a few small tips on things to consider when planning a trip to the Big Island. You can check out more tips from the locals on this blog post: 10 things locals want you to know before visiting the Big Island.