Giorno 5 — Hilo → Hawaii Big Island → Kailua Kona (Kona Coast)
Lush rainforests, vast lava fields, and dramatic volcanic landscapes accompany this fascinating journey across Hawaiʻi’s largest island. The route initially passes through the tropical eastern side of the island, where dense vegetation, waterfalls, and colourful gardens dominate the scenery. As you travel inland, the landscape changes dramatically. The road climbs into higher elevations, offering spectacular views of the massive slopes of Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea. Along the famous Saddle Road, open lava flows, rugged highland terrain, and wide grasslands create constantly changing scenery. The drive provides a remarkable insight into the island’s volcanic origins and offers breathtaking panoramas throughout. Approaching the west coast, the climate becomes noticeably drier and sunnier, while black lava fields and vast open landscapes define the character of the region. Kailua Kona faces the ocean along the western shore of Hawaii's Big Island, a town where Hawaiian history blends with coffee plantations and the crystal-clear waters of the Pacific. Along Ali'i Drive, the lively seafront strip, shops and restaurants sit beside historic sites such as Hulihe'e Palace, the former summer residence of Hawaiian royalty, and Moku'aikaua Church. Just to the north, Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park preserves ancient fishponds and temples (heiau) of Hawaiian culture. The volcanic slopes of Hualalai are home to the celebrated Kona coffee fields, among the finest in the world, with many estates open to visitors. The clear waters of the Kona Coast offer outstanding snorkelling and diving, including the famous night dive with manta rays, while Kealakekua Bay and the Captain Cook Monument draw kayakers and ocean lovers. Kailua Kona is the ideal base for discovering the authentic soul of Hawaii, among volcanoes, coffee and the sea.