Jordyn & Anthony

September 13, 2025 • Waikoloa Village, HI
134 Days To Go!

Jordyn & Anthony

September 13, 2025 • Waikoloa Village, HI
134 Days To Go!

Things to Do

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

Picture of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, HI 96718, USA
(808) 985-6011

Google: Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park protects some of the most unique geological, biological, and cherished cultural landscapes in the world. Extending from sea level to 13,680 feet, the park encompasses the summits of two of the world's most active volcanoes - Kīlauea and Mauna Loa - and is a designated International Biosphere Reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site.


Anthony: This is the coolest national park I have ever been to. When Jordyn and I went, it was slightly rainy, which made for an awesome tropical rainforest hike! We journeyed through lava tubes, felt the heat of the warm geysers, and saw the warm glow of the volcano!

Website

Mauna Kea Observatory

Picture of Mauna Kea Observatory
Island of, HI 96720, USA

Google: Visiting the Mauna Kea Summit and Observatories gives you the feeling of being on top of the world for good reason: You’re actually pretty close. Standing at 13,796 feet (4,138 meters), the mountain is Hawaii's tallest and the highlight of many visitors' trips to the Big Island of Hawaii. The Mauna Kea Observatories (MKO) feature some of the world's largest telescopes, including equipment from Canada, France, and the University of Hawaii, due to its designation as an unparalleled destination for stargazing.


Anthony: Jordyn and I went stargazing here and it truly was epic and serene. You can't actually drive all the way to the summit without a 4WD car, but you can drive most of the way up to the visitor center where there is some nice views and hiking to do. It is possible to hike to the top but we did not as it takes a significant amount of time and we just wanted to stargaze. Very beautiful, but make sure to pack some warm clothes as it does get chilly. P.S. we drove through a rainbow to get there. Highly recommend.

Manta Ray Dives of Hawai‘i

Picture of Manta Ray Dives of Hawai‘i
74-380 Kealakehe Pkwy slip c-01, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, USA
(808) 325-1687

Anthony: Jordyn and I did not actually do this since Jordyn doesn't like diving much, but from what I've heard/understand, the Manta Ray diving here is world-renowned if you're into that sorta thing!

Papakōlea BeachGreen sand beach

Picture of Papakōlea BeachGreen sand beach
Green Sand Beach Road, Naalehu, HI 96772, USA

Google: Papakolea is one of only four green sand beaches in the world. This very secluded sandy beach is located near Ka Lae (South Point) in the Kau district of Hawaii. Papakolea was once a cinder cone volcano. After it erupted, the lava that the volcano spewed was rich in olivine, an abundant mineral in Hawaii's natural volcanic rock. After the eruption, erosion from the ocean and weather slowly eroded the basalt rock until just the olivine was left behind, giving this beach its unique green color.


Anthony: This is another epic hike with gorgeous views, but for real bring some sturdy legs, some water, and some sunglasses as if it's windy, you will be bombarded by sand. The beach itself is so awesomely tucked away into its own corner of Earth and is like nothing you have ever seen before. The green sand... the carved stone you have to walk down to get to the beach... the undertoe on that beach will either kill you from laughter or will actually kill you if you aren't strong enough to escape it. Very awesome.

South Point Cliff Dive

Picture of South Point Cliff Dive
S Point Rd, Naalehu, HI 96772

Anthony: Fun fact: this is the southernmost point of the United States! There is an epic cliff-diving spot that is a must-do for thrill seekers. We did it when we went last time and we'll never forget it!

Waipiʻo Valley Lookout

Picture of Waipiʻo Valley Lookout
48-5546 Waipio Valley Rd, Waimea, HI 96743, USA

Google: Located on the Big Island’s northern shore, the Valley of the Kings (also known as Waipio Valley) is a sacred place with great importance to Hawaiian culture and tradition. By visiting the Valley of the Kings, you’ll not only be rewarded with incredible views of the natural wonders of Hawaii, but you’ll catch a glimpse of the history and culture that makes Hawaii so special.


Anthony: This is an epic and grueling hike. I guarantee that no hike you've ever done will be as steep as this one. Your epic effort spent descending the valley is rewarded with an epic waterfall view, and an awesome black sand beach. Jordyn and I did this hike and I highly recommend it if your legs and back are in functional shape.

Oceans Street Tacos

Picture of Oceans Street Tacos
75-5801 Alii Dr Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

Anthony: There are obviously tons of fantastic eateries all over Hawaii, but this was one of our personal favorite food spots. A little hole in the wall with 3 for 7$ authentic Hawaiian street tacos can't be beat!

On the Rocks

Picture of On the Rocks
75-5824 Kahakai Rd, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, USA
(808) 329-8711

Google: “The long vacant lot adjacent to our flagship Huggo’s restaurant became available for purchase and we jumped at the opportunity to create a more casual, toes-in-the-sand restaurant and bar that also showcases some of the most talented musicians from around the island,” Eric says.


The menu focuses on more casual dining options with an emphasis on island fresh foods, refreshing tropical libations; the vibe is fun and relaxed – a place for good friends and families to create memories together, he says.


Anthony: Best. Burger. In Hawaii. I highly recommend the Mauna Kea Burger if you enjoy bleu cheese religiously like I do. Alternatively, if you like spice like I do, I recommend the Kilauea Fire Burger. 1/2 Pound Hawai‘i Island Grass Fed Beef, Chipotle Aioli, Guacamole, Jalapeño, Bacon, Pepper Jack, Onion Ring, Activated Charcoal Bun. I am getting so hungry writing this.

Panaewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens

Picture of Panaewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens
800 Stainback Hwy, Hilo, HI 96720, USA
(808) 959-7224

Google: Located just outside Hilo, the Panaʻewa Rainforest Zoo is the only tropical zoo in the United States. In the zoo you can find a variety of rainforest animals and endangered Hawaiian animals such as spider monkeys, lemurs, nene geese (the Hawaiian State bird), and over 80 other animal species.


While not planned, the many labeled plants and trees showcased on the grounds make the Panaʻewa zoo also feel like a botanical garden. During your visit you will see many orchids, bamboos, varieties of palms, and a water garden.


Anthony: Hilo is known for its awesome gardens. If you love nature and animals like I do, then why not check out this nifty little zoo! Oh, did I forget to mention, admission is free!? WOOOOO!

Ziplining!

Picture of Ziplining!

Anthony: Jordyn and I wanted to zipline last time, but it was too windy on the day we had planned to... But there are tons of awesome zipline areas all over the island that send you through jungles and valleys and waterfalls! I recommend finding one that sounds the most appealing to you, or find one near another location that you plan on visiting for the day.

Pohoiki Bay and Hot Spring

Picture of Pohoiki Bay and Hot Spring
13-5579 Kalapana - Kapoho Rd, Pāhoa, HI 96778, USA

Google: The Pohoiki Warm Spring is actually a collapsed lava tube that is heated by volcanic energy. When it rains the water will flow into the earth, rather than directly into the ocean, and is heated by magma. The water will eventually find its way back to the surface where it will mix with the incoming tide and cool enough for bathers to enjoy its healing properties.

Starbucks

Picture of Starbucks

Anthony: There are at least 10 Starbucks locations on the Big Island. I know because Jordyn would not have gone if there wasn't. Needless to say, this was the true highlight of her Hawaiian adventures.

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