The Big Island is known for its myriad natural attractions, first and foremost being Kīlauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. With eleven of the world’s thirteen sub-climates, the Big Island offers countless outdoor activities; however, there are rainy days here. If you are staying in Hilo or Volcano on the windward (east) side, it rains quite a bit. The Kona Coast and Kōhala on the leeward side (west) do not see nearly as much rain, though there are certainly days of inclement weather. No matter where you are on the Big Island, the weather can change at moment’s notice and you might find yourself wondering what to do in Hawaii Big Island when it rains. There are many fun and interesting Big Island rainy day activities to do when the weather is more fit for a duck than a human.
Indoor Big Island Rainy Day Activities
Leeward Side
In the heart of Kona on Ali‘i Drive you will find Hulihe‘e Palace. Built from native materials in 1838 by Governor John Adams Kuakini, Hulihe‘e Palace was home to several generations of Hawaiian royalty and houses a magnificent collection of original furnishings, artifacts and Hawaiian memorabilia. Nearby is the historic H.N. Greenwell Store Museum. Built in 1870, the store was central to the 19th century immigrant and ranching communities in Kona. You can also take advantage of Kona’s many eclectic shopping opportunities. Be sure to check out the Kona Wine Market, the Kailua Candy Company, or browse antiques and collectibles at the Kona International Marketplace.
Windward Side
If you are staying in or near Hilo, a rainy day is a perfect excuse to explore historic Hilo Town. Because it rains a lot in Hilo, most of the storefronts have large awnings, so you can cruise down the sidewalks and still stay dry. Check out the awesome shops, restaurants and boutiques along Hilo Bayfront, such as Sugar Coast Candy, Hana Hou Antiques, Basically Books, and Sig Zane Designs. You will also find fascinating museums such as The Hawai‘i Museum of Contemporary Art and the Mokupāpapa Discovery Center, which features an educational experience focused on Northern Hawai‘iʻs remote reefs and atolls. Hilo Bayfront also hosts a daily farmer’s market that is sheltered from the elements.
Rain, Rain… Go Out and Play!
You’ve come all the way to the Big Island with big plans, so you don’t want to just stay in and watch movies when those plans get rained out. There are many more answers to the question of what to do in Hawaii Big Island when it rains than those listed above, so contact us at ILoveHawaii today and let us help you set up an alternate Big Island activity plan that won’t leave you out in the rain.
