Driving around the Big Island generally takes around 6 to 8 hours— provided you don’t make any stops or run into traffic. But if you wish to explore the area and its natural beauty, you will most likely end up with at least a 12-hour itinerary filled with must-see attractions along the way.
True to its name, the Big Island is the largest island in Hawaii. At over 4,000 square miles, it is bigger than all the other Hawaiian islands combined.
If you’re planning a drive around the Big Island of Hawaii, it may be helpful to know what to expect so that you’re not caught off guard and are prepared well in advance.
This article covers all the factors that affect the total time it would take to drive around the Big Island, helpful tips for planning the road trip, recommended itineraries, and more.
Driving time around the Big Island
Exploring the big island by car allows for the perfect blend of adventure and leisure. Though the circumference of the island can be traversed in 6-8 hours, truly experiencing all it has to offer takes a bit longer.
The island is home to an array of picturesque routes and breathtaking landscapes, making it a beloved road trip destination.
To fully immerse yourself in the island’s natural beauty and cultural significance, plan to spend at least six days savoring each stop along the way.
Factors that influence driving time around the Big Island
Due to its size and incredible diversity, there is so much to see and explore on the Big Island, especially if you are driving around.
Several factors can influence the driving time around the Big Island:
Length and layout of the island
Due to the sheer size of the island, navigating around it can be a daunting task, especially if you are not prepared. What makes the Big Island particularly unique is the fact that it is continuously growing.
Volcanic eruptions and the consequent lava flow keep adding more and more surface area to the island.
After the historic 2018 eruptions that wreaked havoc on the island, it had gained over 800 acres by the time the worst of the eruptions ended.
This factor affects both the roads and driving conditions, which is why it is best to go in prepared.
Traffic and road conditions
The traffic on the Big Island, being primarily rural, is generally light and easy to navigate when compared to the big cities.
However, as one approaches popular tourist destinations, congestion can cause delays and necessitate a slower pace of travel.
Also, since the roads on the Big Island are narrow and winding, driving after dark and in extreme weather conditions requires an extra level of caution, causing you to slow down.
It is best to start your journey early in the morning so that you do not encounter any unforeseen circumstances due to the weather or lack of visibility.
The roads on this massive island can be difficult to maintain in some parts, which is why potholes and rough patches are also a common sight.
Points of interest and detours
The Big Island encompasses a huge area with so much to see and experience. If you drive around the island without stopping anywhere, you can easily cover it end-to-end within 6 to 8 hours.
However, if you are a tourist and wish to properly explore the island, you will have to stop at the popular spots along the way, which would naturally add a couple of hours to the itinerary.
By including various sights and stops for lunch, you will most likely end up with a 12-hour itinerary. You could also include more days to your road trip and enjoy every attraction to the fullest.
Estimating the driving time around the Big Island
Here is an estimate of the driving time around the Big Island.
Average driving speed
When estimating the driving time around the Big Island, your driving speed will have a direct impact on it.
The maximum speed limit for the rural freeways in Hawaii is 60mph; however, the law requires the drivers to assess the road and weather conditions to determine a safe driving speed.
No matter how far behind you are on your schedule, never drive above the recommended speed limit.
Speeding laws are taken very seriously in Hawaii, and you can expect to attract fines and jail time for speeding and reckless driving.
Distance around the island
To calculate the total time it would take for you to drive around the Big Island, you will need to take both the speed of your car and the distance you need to cover into consideration.
Compared to other Hawaiian islands, the Big Island has a bigger surface area to cover. It measures 93 miles from the south point to the northern tip and 76 miles from east to west.
If you circumvent the entirety of the island, it will take you approximately 6 to 8 hours. However, if you decide to go through the middle of the island from one point to another, you may be able to save a few minutes of driving time.
Time for breaks and sightseeing
What’s the point of driving around the Big Island if you don’t take time for breaks and sightseeing? You don’t want to be cooped up inside a rental car throughout the road trip, do you?
Depending on how many breaks you take and how long you stop at each tourist attraction, it will add to the total driving time.
How long does it take to drive from one side of the Big Island to the other without stopping?
The drive between Hilo and Kailua-Kona takes about 1 hour and a half along the Hilo-Hamakua Coast Route 19. The Kau-South Kona route, on the other hand, takes a little over 3 hours.
The newly renovated Saddle Road (Route 200) that runs across the Big Island can save up to 20 minutes compared to the north coastal route.
Can you drive all around Hawaii?
You can easily drive all around Hawaii. It is the preferred mode of transportation and is incredibly flexible and economical, allowing you to reach more places and explore more attractions according to your schedule.
Although some roads in Hawaii can be rough, they are properly signed, and there are strict traffic laws to keep motorists safe. Some Hawaiian islands have more roads than others, and you probably won’t have to spend too much time in traffic.
Read our detailed guide on how long it takes to drive around Maui, the second-largest island in Hawaii.
How long is the drive around the Big Island of Hawaii?
The drive around the Big Island of Hawaii is around 6 to 8 hours long if you drive without any breaks or detours.
With breaks for eating, fuelling up, and stretching, it is best to give yourself up to 12 hours for a comfortable trip.
How many miles around the Big Island of Hawaii driving?
When driving on The Big Island, you will have to cover around 300 miles of the road if you stick to the perimeter. However, if you make stops at tourist destinations or deviate from the main roads, the total distance can increase significantly.
Highways 11 and 19 are the two main roads creating a big loop around the island.
Highway 11 is 125 miles long around the South between Hilo and Kailua-Kona, and Highway 19 stretches 98 miles around the North from Hilo to Kailua-Kona.
Although you can drive around the Big Island, it is not a complete coastal drive, and you will have to turn inland at two points for about 20 miles each.
Tips for planning a driving trip around the Big Island
A good road trip is fun and spontaneous and allows you to stop and explore pretty places when the opportunity strikes.
While traveling by car offers a ton of flexibility, it also requires a bit of research and preparation before hitting the road.
Here are a few simple tips for planning a driving trip around the Big Island:
Check for road closures and construction updates
While the weather in Hawaii is mostly favorable, occasional weather events can affect the infrastructure and result in road closures.
You need to pay special attention to posted warnings and signs for flash flooding or landslides.
Additionally, it is important to stay informed about any ongoing construction updates.
You can check weekly updates on road work and maintenance from the Department of Public Works for the State of Hawaii.
Make room for extra time for unexpected delays
You need to keep in mind that even though you may plan every detail of the trip beforehand, you must allow some extra time for unexpected delays.
Also, since the distance you can cover in a given time varies from person to person, you may want to be a bit flexible with your Big Island itinerary and go with the flow.
Stay rested and alert while driving
A good night’s rest before you embark on your journey is crucial to stay awake and alert while driving.
Make regular stops every two hours or so for a quick stretch. If you are traveling with someone, take turns while driving so you don’t get too tired at the end.
Is it hard to drive on the Big Island?
It is not hard to drive on the Big Island; however, there are a few safety precautions that you can take to ensure a safe drive all the way through.
Most of the main roads and highways on the island are well-maintained with proper signage, but many roads are in rougher shape with potholes.
The weather is a huge factor when driving around the island. The rains can often be extreme and cause flash floods or landslides with very low visibility.
Night-time driving is also discouraged, especially if you are unfamiliar with the layout of the land, as it can get extremely dark and difficult to navigate through.
Depending on the time of the year, the sun sets around 6 or 7 p.m., which is your cue to make a stopover for the night if you are still on the road.
What is the best side of the Big Island of Hawaii?
The Big Island of Hawaii has a total of 9 districts and can also be broken down into 6 regions. Some of these areas are more touristy while others are more secluded.
Most people visiting the Big Island prefer the west coast, either in Kona or on the Kohala Coast, where there is plenty of sunshine, and the weather is nice and warm.
With almost constant sunny weather, the west side of the island is said to be covered in eternal springtime. Home to beautiful resorts and the best beaches, it is ideal for snorkeling and swimming with Manta Rays!
The east side of the island is covered in green and lush tropical rainforests made possible by abundant rainfall. Home to several beautiful waterfalls, it has an interesting terrain that is shaped by the rains and winds.
The biggest attraction on this side of the island is the Kilauea volcano and the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
The Southern part of the Big Island also has the Papakolea green sand beach, which is one of only four green sand beaches in the world!
How many days should you stay on the Big Island?
The Big Island has enough to offer to keep you busy for months. Ideally, you should spend at least 6 days on this massive island to give you ample time to visit all the major tourist attractions while also giving you some time to relax.
Depending on how much you can afford and how much you wish to see, you may consider adding more time if possible.
If that is not an option, you can prioritize the spots and activities most important to you and try to cover them all in the time you have available.
Where can I rent a car on the Big Island of Hawaii?
Renting a car is the best way to get around the Big Island. If you wish to see all this beautiful Hawaii island has to offer, having a car at your disposal is the best way to go about it.
It is very easy to rent a car in Hawaii, and you can do so from the Kona International Airport, which you’ll most probably be flying into.
Some of the major car rental companies with locations on the island include Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and Hertz.
You can find them at the Kona International Airport and in major towns such as Kailua-Kona, Hilo, and Waimea.
You can also find local car rental companies, you can search online or ask locals for recommendations.
You can book a car in advance through the car rental website so that it’s taken care of even before you land.
Just keep in mind that you’ll be given an estimate of the charges per day, and the rental car companies may include add-ons at the counter, such as GPS and insurance.
The roads on the Big Island are mostly well-paved and easy to navigate in any type of car. There are, however, some roads where a 4WD car may be preferred or required.
For the most part, you can easily drive around in a regular rented car.
Recommended itinerary
The Big Island, also known as the island of Hawaii, is the largest island in the United States. It boasts some of the most exceptional landscapes, making it a top vacation destination.
Abundant with natural wonders, it encompasses coastal jungles, snowcapped mountains, volcanic landscapes, cascading waterfalls, 5-star resorts, sleepy little towns, and national parks.
Formed by 6 different volcanoes – Mahukona, Kohala, Mauna Kea, Hualalai, Mauna Loa, and Kilauea – it is a spectacular sight to behold and lends itself to an array of climates, from warm coastal areas to cold mountain tops and everything in between.
With so much to see and explore on this beautiful island, you must consider spending at least 6 days here to take it all in.
You can start your journey on the west side of the Big Island in Kona, where you’ll arrive on your flight, spend some time at the Volcanoes National Park situated in the middle of the island, and end it on the eastern side in Hilo.
A perfect balance of sightseeing, adventure, and relaxation, here’s how you should spend 6 days on the Big Island:
Day 1 Big Island: Beach Day at Kona
To ease into your fun-filled Big Island road trip, spend the first day exploring the cute beach town of Kailua-Kona.
This laid-back town is a hot spot for tourism and a great place to start your journey.
Walk along the waterside Ali’i Drive, lined with several shops and restaurants geared towards tourists. You might even see dolphins just offshore!
If you are a history lover, stop by the Mokuaikaua Church – Hawaii’s oldest Christian Church – and do a tour of the Hulihe’e Palace.
Stop by the Farmers Market at Kona and stock up on some delicious tropical fruit and vegetables.
Alternatively, you can book a full-day boat tour for snorkeling prime spots and swim with Hawaiian green sea turtles and a variety of neon-colored fish in one of the best snorkeling destinations in all of Hawaii.
Day 2 Big Island: Night Swim with Manta Rays
Spend the day lazying around the beach because, come sunset, you’re going to be a part of one of the best and most unique experiences on Hawaii’s Big Island!
Swimming at night with manta rays is an experience exclusive to the Big Island and happens only at night time when there is more plankton for the manta rays to feed on.
Touted as one of the top ten things to do in your lifetime, make sure to book your tour beforehand so that you don’t miss out on this amazing experience.
If you are not comfortable swimming in the ocean at night, you can see the manta rays from the boat as well. They will swim by and eat the plankton that the boat lights will attract.
Day 3 Big Island: Dreamy Black Lava Beaches
One of the most spectacular things about visiting the Big Island is its dreamy black lava beaches, and none make your jaw drop quite like the ones found on this massive island!
Since the Big Island is the youngest island in Hawaii, it has the largest share of black sand beaches created by volcanic activity and lava flowing into the ocean.
The Manini’owali/Kua Bay is just a half-hour drive from Kona and is worth exploring if you’ll be heading across the other side of the island soon, which is lush and jungly with far fewer sandy beaches.
You may also check out Mauna Kea beach and Hapuna beach as well if you are interested in exploring the northern coast of Kona.
For incredible views, you can drive to the summit of Mauna Kea, a dormant volcano, which is the highest point on the island.
Here, you can enjoy the beautiful sunset and stargaze. Make sure to pack warm clothes as it can get incredibly cold.
Day 4 Big Island: Hike Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
A Big Island trip would be incomplete without spending a day exploring the marvelous landscapes within the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Just a 90-minute drive around the southern tip of the island, the Volcanoes National Park makes a great stop on your way to the eastern side of the island and is home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes – Mauna Loa and Kilauea.
You can stay the night at or near the park to minimize driving time and allow yourself more time to explore the beauty and natural wonders.
Will I see Lava in Volcanos National Park?
Visitors to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island of Hawaii can see the lava flow in the park. However, the availability of lava viewing opportunities depends on volcanic activity and safety conditions.
Lava from the 2022 Mauna Loa eruption is over, and there is no active lava to be seen on the surface at the moment.
Lava-viewing is an absolute must-do activity if you are on the Big Island when one of the volcanos is actively erupting.
How close you can get to the lava depends on several factors, such as where the flow is active and which lava viewing locations are open and accessible.
Access can oftentimes be restricted if the conditions are deemed unsafe or if the path leading to the flow crosses private property.
It is recommended to check with the park for the most current lava flow information and to plan your visit accordingly.
Where to stay near Volcanos National Park?
With so much to see and do at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a day trip will simply not suffice. You will need to spend at least an entire day (and night) at this beautiful tourist spot to enjoy every aspect of it.
If seeing an active volcano and flowing lava is on top of your things-to-see list, we suggest watching it around dusk and then coming back later in the night to see how the volcanic eruption has changed.
There are several lodging options at the park. You can stay in the park itself at the Volcano House, operated by the Hawaii Volcanoes Lodge Company.
Alternatively, you can stay at the Volcano Vanilla Lodge, which is hardly a 6-minute drive from the park.
Day 5 Big Island: Tour Lava Tubes and Steam Vents
Start by visiting the Kilauea Visitor Center, where you can get the latest updates, including eruption information, hiking information, the schedule for ranger-led activities, and a 25-minute film.
Walk along the Crater Rim Trail, where you’ll pass wonders such as a volcanic crater, ancient petroglyphs, and lava tubes, and experience the rising steam caused due to the heat of volcanic rock.
End the hike at the Holei Sea Arch Viewing Area, where you’ll get to see a mesmerizing view of the ocean and see traces of lava flowing into it!
Day 6 Big Island: Waterfalls and Sea Turtles
Head over to the island’s east side for a more lush and tropical landscape. Compared to Kona, Hilo has a more local feel and is one of the Big Island’s biggest cities to explore on foot.
Head to the eastern shore and admire the Banyan trees across Hilo Bay and walk over to Coconut Island for a relaxing time.
You can snorkel at Carlsmith Beach Park and see sea turtles on this part of the island! Be sure to check out the spectacular Akaka Falls State Park, just about 11 miles north of Hilo.
What should you not miss on the Big Island?
Here are some of the best spots:
Snorkelling in Kealakekua Bay
Kealakekua Bay is a popular snorkeling destination located on the Big Island of Hawaii.
The bay offers crystal clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and a diverse array of marine life, including Hawaiian green sea turtles, dolphins, and a variety of tropical fish.
The bay is also home to the Captain Cook Monument, a memorial to the 18th-century British explorer who first landed on the islands. Visitors can access the bay by boat tour or by kayak, and snorkeling gear can be rented on-site.
It’s recommended to check the weather and ocean conditions before heading out and to be aware of the marine life protection rules.
Manta Ray Night Dive
Manta Ray Night Dive is a popular diving experience offered on the Big Island of Hawaii, where divers can observe the majestic Manta Rays swimming and feeding under the cover of darkness.
The dive typically takes place during the evening hours, and divers use powerful lights to attract the plankton on which the manta rays feed. Divers can get close to these gentle giants and watch their acrobatic maneuvers while they feed.
Manta Ray Night Dive is suitable for certified divers, diving centers located in Kona and Keauhou offer this activity with professional guides.
It is important to note that this activity may not be available year-round, and the best time for diving with Manta rays is during the summer months.
Waipi’o Valley
Waipi’o Valley is a beautiful and secluded valley located on the Big Island of Hawaii, known for its lush vegetation, cascading waterfalls, and stunning black sand beach.
The valley is home to several ancient Hawaiian settlements and is considered sacred by many native Hawaiians. Visitors can access the valley by a steep and winding road or by hiking down a steep trail.
There are guided tours available for those who want to explore the valley’s rich cultural and historical significance. The valley offers a variety of activities like hiking, horseback riding, swimming, and picnicking.
Hapuna Beach
Hapuna Beach is a popular beach located on the Big Island of Hawaii, known for its white sandy beaches and clear blue waters.
The beach is considered one of the best beaches in Hawaii and is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and other water activities.
Hapuna beach park has facilities like restrooms, showers, picnic tables, and lifeguards on duty. It’s a great spot for families and visitors looking for a relaxing day out.
The beach is also a popular spot for snorkeling, bodyboarding, and stand-up paddleboarding.
Akaka Falls State Park
Akaka Falls State Park is a beautiful park located on the Big Island of Hawaii, known for its cascading waterfalls.
The park features a 0.4-mile loop trail that takes visitors through a lush tropical rainforest where they can see two spectacular waterfalls, Akaka falls, and Kahuna falls.
Akaka falls is a 442 feet waterfall that drops into a pool of water, and Kahuna falls is a 100-foot waterfall. The park offers great views of the waterfalls and the surrounding rainforest.
The park also has picnic areas and restrooms. It’s a great spot for nature lovers, hikers, and families looking for a peaceful and scenic getaway.
However, it’s important to note that the trail can be slippery, and some parts may be steep and challenging for some visitors.
Other Big Island day adventures
Other adventures you can enjoy on the Big Island include:
Big Island in a Day Tour: Volcanoes, waterfalls, sightseeing, history
Experience the best of the Big Island in one day with a guided tour that includes visits to volcanoes, waterfalls, and other must-see sights.
If possible, you can leave the driving to someone else and sit back and relax as you take in the natural beauty and rich history of the island.
Check the price and availability of the Big Island in a Day Tour here.
Mauna Kea Summit Tour
The Mauna Kea Summit Tour offers a unique opportunity to witness the beauty of a Hawaiian sunset and experience the magic of stargazing from the highest point in the Hawaiian islands.
Not only will you be able to take in the breathtaking views of the sunset, but you will also have the chance to learn about the history and culture of the mountain from your guide.
This tour is a must-do for any nature and science enthusiast visiting the island.
Check the price and availability of the Mana Kea Summit Tour here.
Accommodations around the big island
Here are some accommodation options on the Big Island
Where to stay in Hilo?
SCP Hilo Hotel is one of the best resorts on the eastern side of the Big Island. It offers easy access to all the nearby attractions and makes for a truly comfortable stay.
Check prices and availability here.
Where to stay in Kona, Hawaii?
Royal Kona Resort faces the Pacific Ocean on Kailua Bay. It is a great choice for travelers looking for luxury and comfort.
Check prices and availability here.
Conclusion
If you’re planning a road trip around Big Island Hawaii, driving around would take around 6 to 8 hours to complete.
Depending on several factors, such as your driving speed, the road and weather conditions, and the number and duration of stops you make, it may take anywhere between 12 hours to a week to explore the entire island.
Make sure to plan ahead and be prepared for a safe and enjoyable road trip.
Some places to visit include Hike Volcanos National Park, Akaka Falls State Park, and Hapuna Beach.
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