Where to Find the Best Views on the Big Island of Hawaii

To see the Big Island in style, take to the air on a helicopter tour. As you soar above the island you'll get a bird's-eye view of towering volcanoes; crashing waterfalls; and the famous white-, green-, and black-sand beaches. Opt for a doors-off tour and take photos without a window obstructing your shot or view.

For a clear view of the stars, head up to Mauna Kea which rises 13,796 feet (4,138 meters) above sea level. Take advantage of telescopes at Mauna Kea Visitor Information Center—some 9,300 feet (2,790 meters) up—and enjoy sweeping views of spectacular sunsets and sunrises. As an added bonus, it's possible to see snow on Mauna Kea in winter.

Go on the water to get a different perspective of the Big Island. Cruising options include sailboats, catamarans, Zodiac rafts, and outrigger canoes. If the timing works out, you might even see lava flowing into the ocean—Hawaii is one of the only places in the world where such a sight is possible.

One major appeal of the Big Island is its diverse sea life. Manta rays appear regularly off the Kona coast at night, and you can spot dolphins, turtles, and reef sharks while snorkeling or scuba diving. In winter, look out for humpback whales, whale sharks, and hammerhead sharks.

One of the most scenic valleys in all of the Hawaiian islands, Waipio Valley or the "Valley of the Kings," is around 6 miles (10 kilometers) deep with a long black sand and boulder beach, as well as a scenic overlook which stands at nearly 2,000 feet (610 meters) above the valley floor. If you've got more time, hike or drive down to the valley and see one of the tallest waterfalls in Hawaii, the towering Hiilawe waterfall.

The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is home to two of the most active volcanoes in the world: Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Volcanic activity can affect what’s open, but possible sights include craters, old volcanic flow, lava tubes, and petroglyphs. Then, drive the Chain of Craters Road when it’s open—the scenic road stretches for 19 miles (30 kilometers) to the Holei Sea Arch and offers many overlooks, pullouts, and hikes.