Big Island

Overview
The Big Island is a microcosm of Hawaii the state. From long white-sand beaches and crystal clear bays to rain forests, waterfalls, luau, exotic flowers, and birds, all things quintessentially Hawaiian are well represented here.

Climate
Like most of the Hawaiian Islands, Big Island has only two seasons: "summer" between May and October and "winter" between October and April.

Accommodation
The Big Island has 2 resort areas on the Kohala coast - Mauna Lani and Waikoloa Beach resort. The two resorts neighbor each other and feature hotels and condo/townhome rentals. There are also great Bed and Breakfast type places, vacation rental homes and small operator hotels too. The Big Island is the only county in Hawaii that has no restrictions on the operation of vacation rentals. Before making reservations it's best to review a map of the island and plan ahead. Think about the activities and sightseeing you'll want to do.

Stay safe
Note that even solidified lava flows can still be very dangerous, as there are hidden flows of molten lava with only an overlying thin crust of rock in many places between Pu'u O'o and the shoreline. And of course there's the threat of methane explosions and lava bench collapses, so do not walk to the edge of the lava bench unless the rangers say it is safe to do so.

The usual disclaimers about the more active things to do apply. If you have a tour guide, they often have insurance premiums to be beholden to and as such make them more aware of safety issues. But otherwise the island is mostly remote and help can be far away. Know your physical limits.