The Big Island of Hawaii is home to five volcanoes and offers a diverse landscape as well as some of the most unique island experiences. It also offers a challenge, due to its size, to anyone planning a vacation there and wanting to squeeze as much enjoyment out of a short stay as possible.
Ann Marchese
Anneke Marchese, owner of AM|FM Luxury + Adventure Travel in Bend, Oregon, started her business nine years ago after her first visit to the Big Island. It was the first island she visited in Hawaii, but since then she has been to every island one can visit. She holds a Master’s Specialist Certificate and a Malama Experience Certificate from the Big Island of Hawaii.
Marchese was happy to share with Travel Weekly readers his knowledge of the island and how he tailors trips for clients.
Q: For people who haven’t been to the Big Island, what would you say are the biggest differences between traveling there versus the other islands?
A: The first thing I always explain to them is that the Big Island is not Oahu, where Pearl Harbor is. Let’s just make sure we all know that this is indeed the Big Island, the largest island in the chain. He is also the youngest. I also say it’s the healthiest and really allows you to get active and connect with nature and still really have a lot of land to explore.
It really is a double island. There are 10 microclimates you’ll pass through crossing the island, so it’s really best to discover it in two parts. Some of your time will be spent in what the locals call Kona Country and some of your time will be in what the locals call Hilo Country.
Photo: Jen Martins
Q: What do you think is a perfect Big Island itinerary?
A: I will usually introduce people to Kona. We will do three, four or five nights in Waikoloa or Kona, possibly splitting them up. Some people will stay down near Captain Cook and Kealakekua Bay and then also as far north as Mauna Kea [Resort] or Hapuna. I think it’s a really great route if we can get people to share even that part.
Then I encourage them to drive across the island. … If they can stay in Hilo for a few days, what we will usually do is have them leave Hilo on the morning of the last day, fly to Honolulu to spend a day at Pearl Harbor and come home at night.
Q: You mentioned the division of the island. Is it common to split each side of the island?
A: If I can convince people, yes; it’s really just a matter of time. If people have a week, some people give me time to spend two nights in the Keauhou area, the Captain Cook area, like three nights in Waikoloa up north and then two nights in Hilo. I really think it’s the most well-rounded and gives you that variety because otherwise you’re really missing out.
Q: How often do customers ask you about the Big Island compared to other islands? Is there a high demand?
A: It is still not as popular as the other islands. I feel like I have a higher conversion rate with those who have been to the islands before and want to experience a new island or maybe haven’t been there and have heard good things about it.
Q: What are some of the best things for visitors to do on the Big Island?
A: If you’re going to be on the island of Hawaii, you have to swim with a manta ray; this is not to be missed.
Fair Wind and Seaquest are two operators I would recommend – although I prefer to work with a naturalist at Mauna Kea Resort where you can swim to the manta rays without a boat. … If you’re afraid to get in the water, sit on the sand bar with Fairmont Orchid’s toes after dark and see them splash in the lights.
I also did the salt farm tour at Kona Sea Salt, which sounds so weird, but it’s great if you have a flight to catch and you’re just trying to do something and see something you’ve never seen before.
Morning coffee overlooking Kulaniapia Falls in Hilo. Photo: Courtesy of Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA)/Heather Goodman
I give clients a hiking guide, so I encourage them to get out and explore. Visiting coffee farms, such as Greenwell Farms, and of course relaxing on the beach [are also recommended].
Q: How many days should people plan to spend in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park?
A: I like two days. I mean, all day if you can, like all day from morning to literally sundown, like after dark. So at least one full day in the park.
If they have mobility issues, you can do two hours in the morning and maybe an hour or two at night, but I always encourage them to stop by and have a glass of wine at Volcano House and watch the glow happen. (As of publication, the volcano is not erupting and has no glow.)
When I take people to experience Volcanoes National Park with a guide, I feel it makes a big difference, especially since the Jaggar Museum is not accessible. (The Volcano Science Museum was damaged during Kilauea’s 2018 eruption; there are plans to reopen, but no date has yet been announced.)
Q: Did you find national park guides?
A: Yes, so usually Hawaii Forest & Trail has guides who do a great job. Love them.
Q: Are you trying to find customers a place to stay near the park? Or are they going back to Hilo?
A: It depends. If some people need a hotel, need to have room service, need to do those things, then of course they come back to the Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo. If they are a bit more robust, there are some beautiful inns I recommend right there.
Q: Is there anything else you’d like to share with advisors and their clients?
A: Travel carefully, please don’t follow Instagram. There are some places that are super sacred that should remain sacred. … I urge every traveler traveling to the islands, but especially the Big Island, to take the Pono promise. I feel this is super important.
