How Big Island Vacation Packages Work
The Big Island is twice the size of all other Hawaiian islands combined, which changes how you plan a trip. A rental car is not optional — it is a requirement. The island has two airports (Kona on the west, Hilo on the east), two distinct climate zones, and attractions spread across 4,028 square miles. Any good Big Island package must include a car.
The Big Island receives about 1.5 million visitors per year, making it the third most visited Hawaiian island. Lower visitor volume means less competition for package deals, which can work in your favor — prices tend to run 10-20% below equivalent Maui packages.
Kona vs. Hilo: Which Airport to Fly Into
This decision shapes your entire trip:
- Kona (KOA): The resort side. Sunny and dry. Most direct mainland flights land here. Choose Kona if you want beaches, snorkeling, manta ray tours, and resort-style accommodations.
- Hilo (ITO): The rainy, lush side. Fewer flights, lower prices. Choose Hilo if volcanoes, waterfalls, and rainforests are your priority. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is 45 minutes from Hilo.
Pro tip: If visiting for 5+ nights, fly into Kona and out of Hilo (or vice versa) to avoid backtracking. Some packages allow open-jaw flights.
Best Big Island Package Providers
Expedia Big Island Packages
Expedia offers packages for both Kona and Hilo with 50+ properties. Their open-jaw flight option makes the Kona-in/Hilo-out routing easy. Search Big Island packages on Expedia.
Costco Travel
Strong Big Island options at Waikoloa Beach resorts (Hilton, Marriott) and Mauna Lani. Costco Cash Card bonuses ($50-$150) add extra value.
Booking.com
Good for vacation rentals and smaller properties outside the resort corridors. Compare Big Island hotels on Booking.com.
Big Island Package Pricing by Season
| Season | Months | Package Range (per person) | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peak | Dec-Mar, Jun-Aug | $1,600 - $3,200 | Moderate-Heavy |
| Shoulder | Apr-May, Sep | $1,100 - $2,000 | Light-Moderate |
| Value | Oct-Nov | $900 - $1,600 | Light |
The Big Island offers the best value of any Hawaiian island during shoulder and off-peak seasons. For monthly detail, see best time to visit the Big Island.
Where to Stay on the Big Island: Package Hotel Picks
- Waikoloa / Kohala Coast (West): The resort corridor. Sunny, dry, and beach-accessible. Top picks: Hilton Waikoloa Village, Mauna Lani, Fairmont Orchid.
- Kailua-Kona (West): Town-based. Walking distance to restaurants and Ali'i Drive. More affordable than Kohala Coast resorts. Good for shorter stays.
- Hilo (East): Budget-friendly hotels and B&Bs. Base camp for Volcanoes National Park, waterfalls, and botanical gardens.
- Volcano Village: Small inns near the park entrance. Cool, misty climate. Ideal for nature-focused trips.
Full breakdown: where to stay on the Big Island.
Must-Do Activities for Your Big Island Package
- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: See active lava flows at Kilauea, walk through lava tubes, and hike the Crater Rim Trail. Free with $30 vehicle entry. Volcano park guide.
- Manta Ray Night Snorkel: Swim with manta rays off the Kona coast after dark. One of the most unique wildlife experiences in Hawaii. $80-$140 per person. Big Island snorkeling guide.
- Mauna Kea Stargazing: The summit at 13,796 feet offers some of the clearest skies on Earth. Guided tours include dinner and telescopes. Mauna Kea details.
- Kealakekua Bay Snorkeling: Captain Cook monument area with pristine coral and spinner dolphins. Access by boat tour or kayak. Book Big Island tours on Viator.
- Luau: The Big Island has fewer luau options than Oahu or Maui, but quality is high. Big Island luau guide.
Tips for Booking the Best Big Island Package
- A rental car is mandatory. The Big Island is massive. Compare Hawaii car rental rates.
- Split your stay between Kona and Hilo if visiting for 5+ nights. Two nights on the Hilo side puts you close to volcanoes and waterfalls.
- Book manta ray tours early — the best operators (like Sea Paradise and Kona Ocean Adventures) sell out during peak season.
- The Big Island is the best value for money in Hawaii. If budget matters, choose this island over Maui.
- Use our trip cost calculator to estimate your total spend.
