A Massive Island Worth Exploring From East to West
At over 4,000 square miles, the Big Island is enormous in scale, offering up an unbelievable variety of terrain, climates, beaches, and places to explore. Given its size, first-time visitors often wonder what sets the different sides of the island apart and how they should plan their trip. The west and east sides (where Volcano Village Lodge is located) have distinctive qualities, each equally unique and worthy of including in your travel itinerary. And at just a 2-hour drive along Highway 11 to connect between the east and west regions, both sides are easily accessible by car during your Big Island stay.
East Side: Where the Trade Winds Blow, the Beaches Are Secluded, and the Landscapes Are Lush
The same northeast trade winds that ships once relied on to carry cargo across vast oceans are just as steady today, depositing humid ocean air over the east side of the Big Island. These winds run up against the spectacular volcanic slopes of Kilauea and Mauna Loa, both part of Volcanoes National Park. The trapped moist air settles over Hilo, Volcano, and the surrounding area, bringing incredible rainfall (over 150 inches a year in Hilo). And along with that plentiful rain comes one of the lushest landscapes in the world, with dense jungles, botanical gardens, and waterfalls that rival any in the world.
Its coastline is also untouched for the most part, and along the way, you’ll find black sand beaches, green sand coves, and unmarked beaches just waiting to be yours for the afternoon. It’s a nature lover’s dream, with its laidback (aside from the active volcanoes, of course!) and peaceful atmosphere, where it’s easy to avoid the crowds and enjoy this quiet and ruggedly beautiful side of Hawaii.
West Side: Eternal Sunshine, World-Class Snorkeling, and a More Developed Coastline
In contrast to the more tropical environment of the east side, the west coast of the Big Island is known for its noticeably drier climate. Lava flows from Hualalai and Mauna Loa, two nearby volcanoes, form the bedrock of the western coast. Although still stunning, the terrain is not as lush and less variable than the eastern flank. But the drier climate brings with it copious sunshine and temperatures that never dip below 70 degrees. Several stretches of the western coast are more developed, specifically near Kohala, with high-end resorts perched along the cliff sides.
Amongst this more touristy area, you’ll also find some of the best snorkeling in the world. At Kahalu’u Beach Park, located just 5 miles from Kona, a sheltered bay draws in magnificent coral and fish and is safe for swimmers of all abilities. The breakwater that forms the bay also creates a well-known surf break, so you can rent a board and try to get up on a wave between snorkeling sessions.
Book your stay with us on the east side of the Big Island, and the west side is just a scenic day trip away!
