Hawaiʻi (island)

Hawaii Island, usually called the Big Island, is the choice for volcanoes, stargazing and long scenic drives. It is the largest of the islands, which is both the appeal and the catch: base yourself on two sides, or budget real hours behind the wheel. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is the headline. Kilauea has been erupting in episodes of lava fountaining at Halemaumau crater, with all vents and flows confined to the crater inside the park, so check the park's status before you go. Maunakea rises to nearly 14,000 feet and needs a four-wheel-drive vehicle above 9,200 feet, with help at least two hours away. It holds major spiritual significance to Native Hawaiians, so stay on marked roads and trails and leave everything as you found it.