Mauna Kea Access Rd, Hilo, HI

Mauna Kea Summit is the tallest mountain in Hawaii, which sits 4,207 meters above a dormant volcano. Standing at the top will feel like stepping into another world, above the clouds, where the air is crisp and the volcanic views take your breath away. The sunset provides panoramic vistas of the horizon, radiating its fiery colors. At night, the stars come out and it suddenly becomes a moment when you’re lost in time.

Mauna Kea Summit is one of the Best things to do in Hawaii and it’s located right in the middle of the island, next to Mauna Kea Ice Age Natural Area Reserve, sandwiched between Ka’Ohe Game Management Area and Hakalau Forest National Wild Refuge. An SUV or truck might be a good vehicle to rent here, ideal for navigating the winding roads in the natural backdrop.

Kalaoa, HI 96740

Manini'owali Beach is a popular idyllic beach in the northwest of Hawaii’s Kona Coast, next to Pu’u Wa’awa’a Forest and Kukio. The waters here are crystal-clear turquoise and the sand is white and soft. If you’re a surfer, bodyboarder, or snorkeler, it’s heaven on earth.

It’s often referred to as Kua Bay by both locals and visitors. People come here to relax, unwind, top up their vitamin D with a spot of sunbathing and take in the paradisical bliss of the surrounding natural beauty. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot some of the Hawaiian Monk Seals.

75-5718 Ali'i Drive, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

Huliheʻe Palace is the historic former palace of the royal family who once ruled Hawaii. It was built in 1838 by High Chief John Adams Kuakini, and showcases the former imperial dynasty’s preserved rooms, period furnishings and exhibits the island’s cultural legacy. It was originally a lava rock residence, transforming into a lush palace that reflected the prestige of the era.

There are six rooms to visit, spaced across two floors, filled with koa wood furniture, heirlooms and portraits that reflect a time gone by. The building itself is a blend of influences, infusing both Western and Hawaiian architecture, representing the island’s transition.

75-5683 Alii Drive, Kailua-Kona, Island of Hawaii, HI 96740

Just a stone’s throw away from Hulihe'e Palace is The Fish Hopper Seafood and Steaks. So if you’re visiting the former royal residence and feeling hungry, it’s a great place to feast on some gastronomic delights. It’s a short drive up Ali’I Drive, and you’ll experience a pleasant coastal view along Kailua Bay, with parking available at the on-site customer parking lot.

There are breakfast, lunch and dinner menus. The dinner menu (served between four and nine pm) consists of succulent starters such as crab cakes, crispy coconut shrimp, and oysters on the half shell. Mains include Kona brew fish and chips, teriyaki chicken breast, and 10 oz filet mignon. Explore more of the best restaurants in Hawaii.

75-5660 Palani Road, Kailua-Kona, Island of Hawaii, HI 96740

Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel is located on the east coast of the island, next to Honu’ula Forest Reserve. There’s on-site parking for your Kailua-Kona car rental, with valet options available. It’s situated close to Wai’aha Springs Forest Reserve, Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park and Maka’eo Walking Path, so if you’re planning on visiting those places, they’re a very short drive away.

Amenities include an outdoor pool, great for a cool down. And you don’t need to worry about your clothes getting dirty, as there are on-site laundry facilities. Also, it has access to the beach on Kamakahonu Bay. The ‘Best hotels in Hawaii’ runs through some other places to stay on the island.