Kona and the west coast
Manta ray night snorkel in Kona
The one activity I would book before the flights.
Things to do on the Big Island
The island is too big for a top-50 list. These are the outings I would actually book on a first trip, grouped by coast, with a straight answer on whether the paid version is worth it.
Kona and the west coast
Most first-timers sleep here. The water is the reason to book something.
Volcano and the saddle
A guided day pays off when you are based in the west. From Hilo, drive it yourself.
Kohala
The green north. One paid half-day is enough. The lookouts are free.
