Big Island, Hawaii: 3-Day Adventure Itinerary

Spent a week in Hawaii last October, with 3 epic days exploring the Big Island—here’s the ultimate guide! ✈️ Flights Oahu → Big Island: 50-min flight (left-side seats for best views!). Chose Kona (west coast) for easier itinerary access. Pro tip: Fly early on weekdays to avoid crowds. 🚗 Car Rental 4WD mandatory for Mauna Kea’s rugged terrain. Kona Airport: Shuttle to rental center → stocked up on water/snacks. 🏠 Accommodation 3 nights in Airbnbs (budget-friendly vs. resorts): 2 nights near Volcanoes National Park 1 night near Kona Airport 🗓️ Day 1: Kona Coast + Mauna Kea Sunset Kua Bay: Crystal-clear waters (even prettier than Oahu’s!). Mauna Kea Summit: Stopped at visitor center to acclimate. Bumpy 20-min drive to the top (checked by staff). Freezing but breathtaking—caught a near-full moonrise! 🌕 Night drive to Volcano Airbnb: Rain + fog made it harrowing (low visibility!). 🌋 Day 2: Volcanoes National Park $30 7-day pass. Rainy all day—couldn’t see craters from lookout points. Explored lava fields + rainforest trails, then drove to east coast for sunshine. Skipped Hilo due to downpour → cozy Airbnb night. 🌴 Day 3: Epic Road Trip Volcano Park (round 2!): Clear skies revealed steaming craters. South Coast Loop: Punalu’u Black Sand Beach: Lucky sea turtle sighting! 🐢 Southernmost Point in the U.S. Two Step Beach: Snorkeling paradise. Kua Bay (again!): Sunset finale before airport Airbnb. ✅ Verdict Hit ALL bucket-list spots—volcanoes, cloud oceans, turtles, and lava landscapes. *10/10 would repeat!* #Hawaii #BigIsland #MaunaKea #Volcano #Rainforest #Sunset #TravelGuide