Volcanic landscapes, rainforests, waterfalls, lava fields, beaches
Hawaii Get directions

"Characterized by dramatic contrasts and vast size (nearly twice as large as all the other islands combined), the Big Island is presented as the destination for immersive adventures and deeper connections, offering natural wonders such as Hawaii Volcano National Park, the black-sand Panaluʻu Beach where green sea turtles can be spotted, coffee plantations, and the Hāmākua Heritage Corridor along the eastern coast, plus a wide range of activities that include chocolate and vanilla tastings, waterfall hikes, and helicopter tours." - Rachel Cheng
"A geographically vast island prized for dramatic volcanic landscapes and lava fields, small-town coastal character, notable local dining scenes (including coffee-growing regions), and accessible hikes across volcanic craters such as Kīlauea Iki." - Hannah Walhout Hannah Walhout Hannah Walhout is a senior editor at Travel + Leisure, where she edits the Discoveries section of the print magazine and develops longer stories focusing on food, wine, and spirits. She has previously worked at Food & Wine and in the writing program at NYU Abu Dhabi. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"As the state's largest island by area and this year's runner-up, I consider the Island of Hawaii "second to none," with every corner completely different—from rainforests and waterfalls to valleys, the ocean, and lava—and I find it notable that active volcanoes continue to create lava flows that expand the island's land mass." - John Wogan John Wogan John Wogan is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure and a contributing writer at T: The New York Times Style Magazine. He was previously a senior editor at Condé Nast Traveler and a travel features editor at Goop.com. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines

"Plan a trip to Hawaii with Hawaiian Airlines' bundle deals that include 20% off five nights at a resort with flights to Maui, Oahu, Kauai, and the Big Island."

"A U.S. state made up of volcanic islands in the central Pacific, known for its diverse natural scenery, oceanic surroundings, and warm tropical climate."