Big Island

In a nutshell

Despite being the largest island in the chain (it's twice as big as the others combined) Big Island is the least developed. Come here to see waterfalls, lush valleys and the only active volcanoes of the Hawaiian islands.

At Hawaii Volcanoes National Park the earth is alive and the scenery changes from one day to the next in a constant cycle of creation and destruction. The sight of molten lava glowing at night is pretty unique in the pantheon of great tourist experiences. Kilauea, at the centre, is the drive-in volcano, with everyone flocking to see the latest spectacular eruption.

Mauna Kea is the worlds tallest mountain (when measured from its submarine base). There's fantastic hiking in the area, and south of here at Ka Lae is the southernmost point in the USA.

The Kona coast has swimming, snorkelling, surfing, scuba diving and sailing. There are world-class golf courses and deep-sea fishing opportunities, and Kona coffee is grown here too, a smooth, fresh delight.

Also in the area are the old residences of Hawaii's monarchy, both ancient and modern. At Pu'uhonua o Honaunau is a well-restored Hawaiian village from pre-contact days, complete with thatch-roof hale (huts) and heiau guarded by imposing tiki.

North of Kona is South Kohala, which has the most sunshine of any part of the Hawaiian islands.

There are more great beach activities, golf courses and excellent seafood restaurants. Visit the appealingly old-fashioned capital of Hilo (mornings are best - it rains rather a lot in the afternoons!) and, north of there, travel the 50-mile Hamakua coast for one of the most beautiful drives in the world. You'll find yourself slowing down all the time as you pass spectacular gorges, streams and waterfalls, cliffs and gullies, blooming with colourful orchids and blossoms and lush jungle vegetation. Along the way you can stop to take it all in at Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden and venture into the rainforest to view the fabulous Akaka Falls.

Further north, the Waipio Valley overlook is one of the islands most stunning viewpoints.