The Big Island is home to five volcanoes, offering a diverse landscape and some of the island's most unique experiences. Its size also makes it a challenge for those planning a vacation there and looking to squeeze in as much fun as possible in a short stay.
Anneke Marchese
Anneke Marchese, owner of AM|FM Luxury + Adventure Travel in Bend, Oregon, started her business nine years ago after visiting the Big Island for the first time. This was the first Hawaiian island she visited, and she has since visited every island she could. She holds the Hawaii Island Master Specialist Certification and the Marama Experience Certification.
Ms. Marchese was happy to share her knowledge of the island and how she tailors trips to her clients with Travel Weekly readers.
question: For those who have never been to the Big Island, what do you think is the biggest difference between traveling to the Big Island and traveling to other islands?
answer: The first thing I always explain to them is that the Big Island is not Oahu, where Pearl Harbor is located. Let us all know that this truly is the Big Island, the largest of the archipelago. And he's the youngest. It's also the most rugged place, where you can be active and connect with nature, and there's so much land to explore.
It really is a double island. There are 10 microclimates to explore as you traverse the island, so it's best to discover them in two parts. Part of your time will be spent on what locals call the Kona side, and some time will be spent on what locals call the Hilo side.
Photo by Jen Martins
question: What do you think is the perfect Big Island itinerary?
answer: I usually take people to Kona. We'll be spending 3, 4, or 5 nights in Waikoloa or Kona, but we'll probably split it up. Some stay near Captain Cook and Kealakekua Bay and then as far north as Mauna Kea. [Resort] Something like Hapuna. If you can share that part with the participants, I think it will be a really wonderful itinerary.
Then I invite them to drive across the island. …If they can stay in Hilo for a few days, what we usually do is leave Hilo on the morning of the last day, fly to Honolulu, spend a day at Pearl Harbor, and fly home in the evening.
question: You said you were going to divide the island. Is it common to separate the two sides of the island?
answer: If you can convince people, yes. It's really a matter of timing. If you have a week, some people will give you time to spend 2 nights in the Keauhou area, Captain Cook area, such as 3 nights north in Waikoloa and 2 nights in Hilo. I really think that's the most balanced and gives you variety. Because if you don't, you're really missing out.
question: How often do customers ask about the Big Island compared to other islands? Is there a lot of demand?
answer: It is still not as popular as other islands. We feel we have a high conversion rate from people who have been to the island before and want to experience a new island, or perhaps those who have never been to the island and have heard good things about it.
question: What are the popular activities for travelers to Hawaii Island?
answer: If you go to the Big Island of Hawaii, you have to swim with manta rays. It shouldn't be missed.
Fair Wind and Seaquest are two operators I recommend. However, I prefer working with the naturalists at Mauna Kea Resort. There, you can swim out to the manta rays without using a boat. …If you're afraid of getting into the water, sit on the Fairmont She Orchid Toe Sandbar when it's dark. Then you can see the water splashing in the light.
I've also taken the Kona Sea Salt salt pan tour, which sounds really weird, but it's something you do when you have to get on a plane and try to see something you've never seen before. This is great if you just have one.
Morning coffee overlooking Hilo's Klania Pier Falls.Photo credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA)/Courtesy of Heather Goodman
I give my clients hiking guides so they are encouraged to get out and explore. Visit coffee farms such as Greenwell Farm and, of course, spend time on the beach. [are also recommended].
question: How many days are you planning to spend in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park?
answer: I like two days. That is, preferably the whole day, from morning until literally sunset, after dark, etc. Therefore, you will spend at least the whole day in the park.
If they have trouble exercising, 2 hours in the morning and 1-2 hours in the evening is fine, but I always encourage them to stop by Volcano House, have a glass of wine, and watch the glow. Masu. (At the time of publication, the volcano is not erupting and there is no glow.)
I feel having a guide to experience Volcanoes National Park makes a huge difference, especially since the Jaguar Museum is not available. (The Museum of Volcanic Science was damaged in the 2018 Kilauea eruption. There are plans to reopen, but a date has not yet been announced.)
question: Did you find a national park guide?
answer: Well, Hawaii Forest & Trails usually has guides that work well. I love them.
question: Are you trying to find a place for your client to stay near the park? Or will they be driving back to Hilo?
answer: it depends. If you need a hotel, if you need room service, if you need to do those things, obviously you're going to come back to Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo. If you're feeling a little more rugged, there are some cute inns there that we recommend.
question: Is there anything else you would like to share with advisors and their clients?
answer: Please be careful when traveling. Don't follow me on Instagram. There are some super sacred places that should remain sacred. … I require all travelers traveling to the islands, especially the Big Island, to take the Pono Pledge. I feel like that's super important.
