How to live like the locals on the Island of Hawaiʻi

The Island of Hawaiʻi offers dramatic volcanic terrain, and connection to land and culture for those who seek it. Just follow the locals.

Arriving on the Island of Hawaiʻi, the terrain looks molten and raw, streaked with hardened lava flows that run toward a restless ocean. The youngest and largest of the Hawaiian Islands, nicknamed the ‘Big Island’ is still being shaped by fire. At its heart is Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of volcanoes and fire – a powerful presence, spoken of with reverence by locals who understand the land as a living force.

Volcano chasing may be the drawcard, but to reduce the island to lava alone is to miss its deeper story. This is an island of farmers, fishermen and storytellers who honour place through food, music and ritual. The Hawaiian concept of kuleana (responsibility) guides daily life, shaping how visitors are welcomed and how the land is cared for.

“I am personally held accountable and responsible for the care of my home, community and our visitors – in work and life,” says Nani Kupihe, Director of Cultural Experiences at OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa.

That ethos is echoed everywhere, from sunrise chants on sacred shores to menus showcasing what the land and sea provide. Before arriving, visitors are encouraged to take the Pono Pledge, a simple commitment to tread lightly and travel mindfully, setting the tone for a more grounded experience on the Island of Hawaiʻi.

Discover the the Island of Hawaiʻi. (Credit: Island of Hawai’i Visitors Buereau/ Mahesha Thapa)

Island of Hawaiʻi restaurants and bars

1. Huggo’s on the Rocks

Few places capture the Island of Hawaiʻi’s laid-back vibe quite like Huggo’s. With sand underfoot and the Pacific lapping at the edge of the terrace, this beachfront institution could feel kitschy with palm-fronded entry, tropical cocktails topped with umbrellas, but instead it’s fun and welcoming. Locals and visitors sit side by side at the bar, swapping stories over Mai Tais and Mahalo Margaritas.

2. Merriman’s

Step into Merriman’s flagship.

Peter Merriman is widely credited as a pioneer of Hawaiʻi’s regional cuisine and this is where it began. Merriman’s flagship showcases island-grown produce and sustainable seafood within a rustic dining room. Try the tako ‘escargot’, where octopus replaces snails, swimming in garlic-parsley butter and served with grilled house bread.

3. Meridia

Sit down to delicious seafood dishes.

Chef Sotiros Kontos brings Mediterranean sensibility to this swoonworthy coastal restaurant. Kontos spent 17 years in New York kitchens after being spotted in Greece by Robert De Niro, before trading Manhattan intensity for island life. Here seafood shines: the Meridia crudo features the catch of the day marinated in a dirty martini leche de tigre, finished with finger lime.

Island of Hawaiʻi guide

Morning

Explore Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. (Credit: Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority/ Kirk Aeder)

Nani recommends hiring a car for ultimate flexibility. Start the day by joining an E Ala E sunrise ceremony, a traditional chant welcoming the day and honouring the ocean. Coffee naturally follows; sip a locally roasted Kona brew before heading inland with Hawaii Forest & Trail to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Expert guides bring the landscape to life, explaining the island’s volcanic past and Pele’s enduring influence. Pause for lunch at the historic Volcano House, perched on the rim of Kīlauea, looking directly into Halema‘uma‘u crater.

Afternoon

Visit Pu‘ukoholā Heiau National Historic Site. (Credit: Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority)

Obsessed with the historical drama Chief of War? Visit Pu‘ukoholā Heiau National Historic Site, bringing to life the epic rivalry between warrior chiefs Karmehameha and Keōua Kū‘ahu‘ula. Through cinematic screens, brutal artefacts and imposing lava rock temple, the experience feels visceral rather than museum bound.

Evening

Nani recommends that visitors looking an immersive cultural experience join Kona’s Feast & Fire Luau. Enjoy music, dance and shared food on the Keauhou Bay oceanfront, participation encouraged. Arrive early to learn basic hula steps, then dine under the stars as dancers bring ancestral stories to life.

Island of Hawaiʻi accommodation

1. OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa

Check into OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa.

Perched on top of lava-rock cliffs, immerse into local culture and the Island of Hawaiʻi’s natural beauty at this family-friendly resort. Enjoy features like an oceanfront pool, waterslide and a strong focus on cultural connection.

2. The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort

Chekc into The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort for understated luxury and direct beach access. Join in cultural and wellness activities offered by the resort, like lei making and beachfront yoga.

Shopping on the Island of Hawaiʻi

Pick up locally-made souvineers at Nālani Farm Store. (Credit: Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority/ Ben Ono)

Wander downtown Hilo and trawl for handmade and vintage finds at KD’s Gifts & Crafts, pick up locally made goods from Nālani Farm Store and check out Hilo Farmers Market – one of Hawaiʻi’s most vibrant, where tropical fruit, fresh flowers and yes, durian, jostle for attention. Cool off with Kula Shave Ice or refuel at this community-minded precinct at the beloved Cafe Pesto.

More ways to explore

Visit Hawaiʻi’s underwater inhabitants. (Credit: Getty-Dai Mar Tamarack)

Take to the water with Kohala Blue, Hawaiʻi’s only renewable electric sailing charter, for eco-conscious whale watching, snorkelling or sunset sails. For something truly unforgettable, join Eka Canoe Adventures for close up encounters with manta rays aboard the traditional double-hulled canoe Kini Kini.

Start planning your Island of Hawaiʻi adventure at gohawaii.com.