5 Record-Breaking Wonders You Need to Witness on Hawaiʻi Island
From the world’s tallest mountain to one of its only green-sand beaches, discover once-in-a-lifetime experiences across the Big Island.
People travel thousands of miles to reach Hawaiʻi—one of the most isolated landmasses on Earth. Its eight main islands help form a 1,500-mile archipelago, the longest island chain in the world. Aptly nicknamed, the Big Island is the largest of Hawaiʻi’s islands and home to one of the most varied climate ranges anywhere. The island itself contains even more natural extremes, from the planet’s tallest mountain to its newest lands, and some of the world’s most awe-inspiring sites.
1. ʻAkaka Falls
This short and beautiful trail at ʻAkaka Falls State Park leads to the impressive 442-foot ʻAkaka Falls. // Photo by Aaron K. Yoshino
This 442-foot waterfall is the tallest, most easily accessible one in Hawaiʻi. Head to ʻAkaka Falls State Park and pay the nonresident fee ($10 per vehicle, $5 per pedestrian) or enjoy free entry if you’re kamaʻāina. Follow the shaded loop trail—less than half a mile long—and wind through a lush rainforest on a paved path. At the midpoint, you’ll reach the viewing platform .
ʻAkaka Falls State Park, dlnr.hawaii.gov
2. Kazumura Caves
Traverse into the cave on a guided tour to learn about “lava-cicles”—stalactite-like formations made of lava.
Although another lava tube was recently discovered that surpasses its size, Kazumura Caves remains the longest tourable lava tube in the world, spanning more than 40 miles. Begin above ground, where you’ll get a lay of the land while being fitted with gloves and a hard hat, both for your safety and to protect the cave. Descending via ladders made of PVC pipes and metal rods adds to the adventure. And never fear, as the owner-guide assured me, “You’re not dealing with heights—you’re simply experiencing varying degrees of depth.” Traverse into the cave to spot what he calls “lava-cicles”—stalactite-like formations made of lava—and learn about how the geological phenomena came to be. Choose from three guided tours: the easy-to-moderate Lava Falls ($60 per person), the moderate-to-challenging Pit Room ($120 per person), and the Maze ($140 per person) for experienced cavers and climbers only.
3. Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
Visitors watch episode 33 of Kīlauea’s eruption in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. // Photo by NPS Photo/J.Wei
The largest national park in the state, this UNESCO World Heritage Site encompasses two of the world’s most extraordinary volcanoes: Mauna Loa, the largest on Earth, by volume at nearly 20,000 cubic miles, and Kīlauea, the most active in the U.S. The latter has made recent headlines for its episodic eruptions—episode 35 in mid-October 2025 produced record-breaking lava fountains, the tallest of which reached nearly 1,500 feet. One of the world’s longest recorded eruptions also occurred here, lasting from 1983 to 2018. Use your national park pass or pay the $30 entry fee to explore the park via scenic drives or hiking trails for all levels.
4. Mauna Kea
With some of the world’s clearest, darkest skies, Mauan Kea is a great spot to stargaze.
While Mount Everest has the world’s highest elevation, it isn’t the world’s tallest mountain. At 29,000 feet above sea level, its total height is surpassed by Mauna Kea, which rises roughly 33,500 feet from its base on the seafloor to its peak. Head up the mountain for breathtaking sunrises, sunsets and stargazing in some of the world’s clearest, darkest skies. Join a guided tour to the summit or drive yourself to the Visitor Information Station for free activities like a challenging day hike. Or just relax under the stars.
Travel Tip: Acclimate gradually as you ascend the volcano, especially if driving yourself in a 4×4, to avoid altitude sickness.
Maunakea Access Road, hilo.hawaii.edu/maunakea
5. Papakōlea Beach
Papakōlea Beach on Hawaiʻi Island. // Photo by Getty Images/Damien VERRIER
Venture to the southernmost point in the U.S. for expansive ocean views and a bit of perspective. The road to Papakōlea Beach winds through sand dunes and along rugged lava-rock coastline, making it especially treacherous for novice drivers and most rental vehicles. Some locals offer unofficial shuttle services; hiking is also an option if you’re prepared for 5.5 miles of full sun exposure. Still, the payoff is worth it: One of the only green-sand beaches in the world, its distinctive hue is formed by olivine crystals from nearby volcanic rocks that glisten in the sunlight.
READ MORE: The Ultimate 3-Day Weekend on Hawaiʻi Island
