7 Free Things to Do in Big Island Hawaii (You Can’t Miss These!)

This post is all about 7 Free Things to Do in Big Island Hawaii (You Can’t Miss These!)

Whether it’s your first time going to Big Island Hawaii or you’ve been here before, it can be challenging to figure out what the best things to do in Big Island Hawaii are.

I remember my first trip to Big Island Hawaii, I had so many things I wanted to do and so few days, I had no idea what would even be worth my time and money!

Well, have no fear. I’ve put together the ultimate guide for the 7 amazing and totally free things to do in Big Island Hawaii, including unique things to do in Big Island Hawaii, hidden gems, and the #1 thing to do in Big Island, Hawaii. Sit back, relax, and here’s how to make the most of your trip without spending a dime.

This post is all about 7 Free Things to Do in Big Island Hawaii (You Can’t Miss These!)

Green Sand Beach - Papakōlea Beach

At the TOP of my list of free things to do in Big Island, Hawaii, is the hidden gem Green Sand Beach otherwise known as Papakōlea Beach, Located on the Big Island, or Kona, it is one of the rarest beaches in the world. It is also one of the most unique and free things to do on the Big Island.

💡 Pro Tip: Check out my detailed Green Sand Beach guide for tips on how to get there and what to bring.

There are only four green sand beaches, the others in Guam, Norway, and the Galapagos Islands. They are pretty difficult to visit, requiring an almost four-hour roundtrip drive and a five-mile hike, but I’ve laid out the best possible way to visit in my Green Sand Beach guide here.

It was truly one of my favorite things to do on The Big Island.

Need A Car? We rented ours from Sixt and absolutely loved it. You can rent one here.

2. Punaluu Black Sand Beach

If you’ve never seen a black sand beach, your jaw is about to drop with Punaluu Black Sand Beach! This is another must-visit if you’re hunting for free things to do in Big Island Hawaii.

It’s one of the easiest black sand beaches to get to compared to the one in Maui and

If you’re also looking for information on this beach, don’t miss my post on Is Punaluu Black Sand Beach in Hawaii Worth It? An Honest Review —it’ll give you a deeper dive into the black sand beach and what to bring!

3. Waipiʻo Valley Lookout

For something a bit more under the radar, check out Waipiʻo Valley Lookout. It’s one of the more unique free things to do in Big Island Hawaii.

Most visitors skip this spot, but if you’re chasing those picture-perfect waterfall views you’ve seen all over Instagram, this is where you’ll find them.

It’s just a short drive from Akaka Falls and offers breathtaking scenery for zero dollars.

4. Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area

Another gem when looking for free things to do in Big Island Hawaii is Hapuna Beach. Not all the beaches in Big Island are built the same and some are a little smaller than others.

However, Hapuna Beach is a local favorite, and the sunsets here are truly out of the world. Plus, the parking meters sometimes don’t work, making it a potential free thing to do in Big Island Hawaii. Don’t forget your camera—you’ll want to capture every golden moment.

5. Kaloko Honokohau National Historical Park

Looking for free things to do on the Big Island and want to see wildlife up close? If you’ve never seen a green sea turtle before, I can’t wait for you to visit this place. Kaloko Honokōhau National Historical Park is a must-visit!

We ended up seeing eight green sea turtles, and it is truly one of the most unique and free things to do in Big Island, Hawaii, that no one talks about.

Just make sure not to touch them, as it’s illegal in Hawaii and could damage them.

6. South Point (Ka Lae)

Last but not least, one of the most bucket-list-worthy things you can do in Big Island, Hawaii, is to go to South Point, also known as Ka Lae.

It’s the Southernmost point of the entire United States, and you feel like you’re standing at the edge of the world.

You can even go cliff diving here, but locals recommend only doing it in the summer as there is no supervision, and you can really get swept up during the winter. It’s another bucketlist worthy free thing to do on Big Island Hawaii.

7. Laupahoehoe Point

Another hidden gem on your list of free things to do in Big Island Hawaii has to be Laupahoehoe Point; it showcases a mix of black lava rocks and has the most beautiful deep blue ocean color. It’s relatively quiet here and easily accessible by car; we saw so many locals here, so it’s definitely a local park.

Loved these 7 Free Things To Do in Big Island Hawaii?

Add even more must-see to your Hawaii itinerary! Check out my other guides:

10 Things to Do in Oahu for your first time

8 Things To Do In Maui Hawaii For Your First Time

And there you have it! 7 free life-changing things to do in Big Island, Hawaii that will definitely make you fall in love. From volcanic landscapes to rare green sand beaches and even mindblowing sunsets, the Big Island has it all.

After this trip, the Big Island became one of my favorite islands, and I know you will absolutely love it here, too. I hope you have the most amazing trip!