From Volcanoes to Waterfalls: Our Big Island Group Adventure

Our recent group trip to Hawaii's Big Island was nothing short of incredible! With so much to see and do on this breathtaking island, we knew we were in for an adventure. From relaxing at the Waikoloa Marriott Beach Resort & Spa to exploring Kohala Waterfalls, Volcano National Park, and even swimming with manta rays, our trip was a true bucket list experience. Here's a look at some of the amazing activities we enjoyed during our stay on the Big Island.

I selected Waikoloa Marriott Beach Resort & Spa for many reasons. It’s on the Kona side of the island (west), so it tends to get less rain. This resort is one of the few with a swimmable beach & an onsite spa. Plus, all our tours started on this side of the island.

We couldn't have asked for a better home base on the Big Island than the Waikoloa Marriott Beach Resort & Spa. This luxurious resort is located right on the beach, giving us easy access to the crystal-clear waters of the Pacific Ocean. I made sure there was down time on our itinerary, so we could relax lounging on the beach and sipping cocktails by the pool (lots of Mai Tai’s & Pina Coladas were enjoyed). The resort's restaurant and bar were also fantastic, offering a range of delicious bites and refreshing drinks.

We all agreed this was the perfect resort for us. It’s small enough you get to know the staff & other guests and yet big enough it doesn’t feel packed with people. Plenty of space and lounge chairs for everyone. They do have kid pools (water slide & shallow pool with mini man-made beach) & water sport equipment to use in the ocean (snorkel, SUP, kayaks, etc).

One of the highlights of our trip was touring Kohala Waterfalls. This breathtaking natural wonder is located in a lush rainforest and is home to several stunning waterfalls. We hiked through the forest with our guide, learning about the local flora and fauna along the way. The views of the waterfalls were absolutely mesmerizing, and we even got to take a refreshing swim in one of the pools. (Side note: these waterfalls must be viewed on a tour, as they are located on private property).

Bonus to the waterfalls was our guide took us to another private spot for our picnic lunch, which offered stunning views of the coastline. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone who enjoys hiking. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable about the island and all equipment was provided for the hike (towels, poles, rain gear, snacks & water).

No trip to the Big Island is complete without a visit to Volcano National Park. This park is home to Kilauea, one of the most active volcanoes in the world. We hiked through the park, marveling at the otherworldly landscapes created by the volcano. Our guides pointed out unique formations and explained why the landscape looks the way it does.

Perhaps the most thrilling activity we enjoyed on the Big Island was swimming with manta rays. We took a boat out to a location where the manta rays were known to feed, and then donned snorkeling gear to get in the water. The sight of these graceful creatures gliding through the water was truly awe-inspiring, and we felt so lucky to have had the opportunity to swim with them. (Side note: Kona is one of the few places in the world you can see manta rays).

Our group trip to the Big Island of Hawaii was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that we will never forget. From the luxurious surroundings of the Waikoloa Marriott Beach Resort & Spa to the natural wonders of Kohala Waterfalls and Volcano National Park, and the thrill of swimming with manta rays, we experienced so much on this amazing island. If you're looking for a destination that offers adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty, then the Big Island of Hawaii is the perfect choice.

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