Big Island Sightseeing Suggestions

Cheryl Lee • August 29, 2025

Get out and explore! All points of interest contain This Week Map coordinates and are free unless noted.

N. Kohala / Kohala Coast / Kailua-Kona


Pololu Valley Lookout 

Morning is best to see the dramatic seaside cliffs and beyond at this drive-up treasure. The road there is through North Kohala's quaint villages; park at the end of the Hwy. 270. Map G:E2


King Kamehameha Statue 
Standing sentinel over Hwy. 270 in Kapa‘au, the colorful statue commemorates the island son who unified the Hawaiian Islands. First lost at sea and recovered in 1912, this statue is the original—Honolulu’s is a replica. Map G:D1


Pu‘ukohola Heiau 
This National Historic Site is rich with cultural landmarks within walking distance, informative displays and an excellent gift shop. Marvel at the massive temple built by hand in 1790. On Hwy. 270 in Kawaihae, nps.gov/puhe/index.htm. Map A:E5


Hulihe‘e Palace
Restored to its 1880s Victorian grandeur, the seaside summer home of Hawai‘i’s royalty is a museum offering spectacular furnishings and a gift shop. Located on Ali’i Drive in Historic Kailua Village. Admission fees apply and reservations are recommended. Map C:D8


Hamakua Coast / Hilo


Waipi‘o Valley Lookout 
Located at the end of Hwy. 240 on the Hamakua Coast, the lookout offers sweeping vistas of the valley and seaside cliffs. Limited parking.Map D:D3


Boiling Pots 
A series of cascading pools on Hilo’s Wailuku River often fills up with turbulent water resembling “boiling pots” after an upslope rain. Map E:F1


Lili‘uokalani Gardens 
Dedicated in 1917, this 25-acre Japanese garden on Hilo’s Banyan Drive evokes serenity with arching bridges over fishponds and pagodas. Enjoy scenic seaside and mountain views.
Map E:F12


Note: Map coordinates noted in blog article are referencing the This Week Big Island maps in the printed magazine. Pick up a FREE book when you arrive at any of our airports, rental car locations and various hotels across Hawaii!

View the Big Island/Hawaii Island's digital magazine click here: https://twbidigitaledition.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com/index.html


Banner Photo: Puukohala Heiau

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