Welcome to our ultimate guide to Big Island Hawaii, where we’ve handpicked the top 10 Instagrammable spots you absolutely can’t miss on this breathtaking island. From stunning volcanic landscapes to pristine beaches and lush valleys, we’ll take you on a visual journey through the most picturesque locations. Get ready to capture the essence of paradise in every shot!

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1 Isaac Hale Park

2 Kaumana Caves

3 Mauna Kea

4 Waipiʻo Valley Lookout

5 Kona City Center

6 Lauhalaland

7 Akaka Falls

8 Kilauea Overlook

9 Kaimu Beach

10 Pololū Valley


1. Isaac Hale Beach Park

GPS Coordinates: 19.4716° N, 154.8484° W

Enjoy the serene beauty of Isaac Hale Park, featuring black sand beaches, lush greenery, and stunning ocean views. Perfect for capturing sunrise or surf shots.

Note: The park will be closed during evening hours, so ensure you depart on time.

How to Get There

Located in Pohoiki, accessible via Highway 137 (Kalapana-Kapoho Road) from Pahoa. Parking is available onsite.

Big Island Isaac Hale Park Lifeguard tower

2 Kaumana Caves

GPS Coordinates: 19.6967° N, 155.0875° W

Venture into the dark depths of Kaumana Caves, a network of lava tubes formed by ancient volcanic activity. Capture dramatic shots of the cave interiors and unique rock formations.

How to Get There

Located near Hilo, accessible via Highway 200 (Kaumana Drive). Look for the Kaumana Cave State Park parking area.


3 Mauna Kea

GPS Coordinates: 19.8208° N, 155.4681° W

Discover the stunning beauty of Mauna Kea, Hawaii’s tallest mountain. Take in mesmerizing sunset views or gaze at the stars from the Maunakea Visitor Information Station or summit. Explore various nearby spots and the entire region surrounding Mauna Kea for more breathtaking sights.

How to Get There

Accessible via Saddle Road (Hwy 200) from Hilo or Waimea. Four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended for the summit.

Big Island Mauna Kea Area
Big Island Mauna Kea Volcano Region

4 Waipiʻo Valley Lookout

GPS Coordinates: 20.1158° N, 155.5978° W

Take in the breathtaking views of Waipiʻo Valley from the overlook, showcasing its lush green cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and black sand beach. Perfect for capturing panoramic shots of the valley.

How to Get There

Accessible via Waipiʻo Valley Road (Highway 240) from Honokaa. Limited parking is available at the lookout point.


5 Kona City Center

GPS Coordinates: 19.6400° N, 155.9969° W

Explore the vibrant streets of Kona City Center, lined with colorful storefronts, historic sites, and bustling markets. Don’t miss capturing the iconic Kailua Pier and the stunning ocean views along Ali’i Drive.

How to Get There

Easily accessible by car or foot from most accommodations in Kona. Parking is available in designated areas.


Big Island Lauhalaland
6 Lauhalaland

GPS Coordinates: 19.6372° N, 155.9483° W

Discover the hidden gem of Lauhalaland, a tranquil oasis nestled amidst lush greenery and vibrant flora. Capture serene nature shots and immerse yourself in the island’s beauty.

How to Get There

Located in the Hamakua Coast region, accessible via Highway 19 (Mamalahoa Highway). Look for designated parking areas along the road.


7 Akaka Falls

GPS Coordinates: 19.8524° N, 155.1277° W

One of our top Big Island Instagram Spots are the Akaka Falls nearby Hilo. Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Akaka Falls, plunging gracefully amidst lush greenery. Perfect for capturing breathtaking nature shots. Note: The park may close before sunset, so plan your visit accordingly.

How to Get There

Situated near Hilo, accessible via Highway 220 (Akaka Falls Road) from Honomu. Follow signs to Akaka Falls State Park, where parking is available.

Big Island Akaka Falls

8 Kilauea Overlook

GPS Coordinates: 19.4261° N, 155.2889° W

Marvel at the breathtaking vistas of Kilauea volcano and its surrounding landscapes from the Kilauea Overlook. Capture panoramic shots of the volcanic caldera and steam vents.

How to Get There

Located within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, accessible via Crater Rim Drive. Follow signs to the Kilauea Overlook parking area.


9 Kaimu Beach

GPS Coordinates: 19.4958° N, 154.8178° W

Relax on the black sand shores of Kaimu Beach and capture stunning ocean views against the backdrop of volcanic cliffs. Perfect for beachscape and sunset photography.

How to Get There

Located near Pahoa, accessible via Highway 137 (Kalapana-Kapoho Road). Follow signs to the parking area near the lava fields.

Big Island Instagram Spot Kaimu Beach

10 Pololū Valley

GPS Coordinates: 20.2186° N, 155.7783° W

The last recommendation of our top 10 Big Island Instagram Spots is Pololū Valley. It offers breathtaking vistas of dramatic cliffs, lush landscapes, and a captivating black sand beach. Perfect for landscape photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

How to get there

Accessible via a scenic hike from the Pololū Valley Lookout, situated at the end of Highway 270 near Kapaau. Remember to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water for the hike.