Spring break on the Island of Hawaiʻi blends warm ocean days with unforgettable outdoor adventures. From volcanic landscapes and rainforest trails to dolphin encounters and sunny beach afternoons, the Big Island offers a family-friendly escape with space to explore and experiences that feel both exciting and educational. Whether visiting for the first time or returning to see a new side of the island, this five-day itinerary highlights some of the best ways to spend a spring break in Hawaiʻi.
Why Visit the Big Island in March?
March is one of the most rewarding times of year to experience the Big Island. Spring break travelers enjoy warm temperatures, vibrant landscapes, and seasonal wildlife sightings that make each day feel special.
March also marks the tail end of humpback whale season, offering excellent opportunities to spot whales breaching and caring for their calves along the Kona and Kohala coasts. Travelers visiting in late March may experience Prince Kūhiō Day celebrations on March 26, a statewide holiday honoring Hawaiian history and culture through parades, festivals, and community events.
Early March visitors may also catch the Kona Brewers Festival, a popular annual event featuring local food, craft beer, and live entertainment along the Kona coast. Combined with typically calm ocean conditions for snorkeling and marine excursions, as well as lush greenery around Hilo and Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, March is an ideal time for families to explore the island.
Day 1: Arrive and Head to the Beach
Arrive on the Big Island and enjoy the scenic drive to your vacation rental, passing lava fields, green pastures, and ocean views along the way.
Beach Time
After check-in, kick off spring break with a relaxed afternoon by the water. The Big Island is known for its diverse coastline, with white sand beaches, black sand shores, and calm coves ideal for families. On the Kona side, spring often brings gentle surf and clear water, perfect for swimming, boogie boarding, and tide pool exploring.
Sunset dinner
Wrap up your first day with a casual dinner and sunset views. Whether dining out or enjoying a meal at your residence, warm evenings and golden skies set the tone for the days ahead.
Day 2: Volcanoes and Stargazing
Spend the day exploring one of the most iconic landscapes in Hawaiʻi.
Explore Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
Spring break is an ideal time to visit Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, when mild temperatures make walking trails and overlooks more comfortable for families. See steam vents warmed by volcanic activity, walk across hardened lava fields, and explore the Thurston Lava Tube, an accessible lava cave that feels like stepping into another world.
Visit Puako Petroglyph Archaeological District
Continue the day with a visit to the Puako Petroglyph Archaeological District, home to one of the largest collections of petroglyphs in Hawaiʻi. A short walking trail winds through lava rock fields where thousands of ancient kiʻi pōhaku, or stone carvings, depict human figures, animals, and symbols tied to early Hawaiian life.
Evening stargazing
Return after sunset to enjoy clear spring skies and, when conditions permit, the distant glow of volcanic activity. There are numreous stargazing tours on the Big Island, including one hosted at Mauna Kea once the sun sets.
Day 3: Rainforest Adventure and Underwater Exploration
Go ziplining
Start the morning with an adrenaline-filled zipline tour through lush rainforest scenery. Many courses are designed for families and feature suspension bridges, tandem lines, and sweeping views over valleys and waterfalls. Spring weather brings vibrant greenery and comfortable temperatures for outdoor adventure.
Take a submarine ride
In the afternoon, head to the Kona coast for an underwater expedition aboard the Atlantis Submarine. Descending up to 100 feet below the surface, families can view coral reefs and tropical fish through large viewing windows in an air-conditioned cabin.
Day 4: Wildlife and Science in Hilo
Visit Panaʻewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens
Begin the day at the only tropical rainforest zoo in the United States. Set within a lush botanical garden, the zoo is home to Hawaiian nēnē geese, tigers, monkeys, and more. Spring is a pleasant time to stroll the shaded paths, and families enjoy the interactive exhibits, petting zoo on Saturdays, and large playground.
Explore ʻImiloa Astronomy Center
Continue the afternoon at the ʻImiloa Astronomy Center, where Hawaiian culture and modern astronomy come together. Interactive exhibits explain how ancient Polynesian navigators used the stars, while planetarium shows immerse visitors in the wonders of space and the universe.
Day 5: Marine Life Encounters
Get your hands wet at a seahorse farm
Visit the Ocean Rider Seahorse Farm near Kona Airport for a guided tour led by marine biologists. Families can see baby seahorses, pregnant males, and rare species such as sea dragons while learning about conservation and sustainable aquaculture practices.
Swim with dolphins
Close out spring break with a dolphin experience at Dolphin Quest or join a boat tour to spot wild dolphins in their natural habitat. Spring mornings often bring calm ocean conditions, making it an ideal time for marine life viewing along the Kona coast.
Final afternoon by the water
Spend your last afternoon soaking up the sun with one more beach visit before preparing for departure.
Plan Your Big Island Spring Break Stay
From volcano hikes and rainforest ziplines to beach days and marine life encounters, the Big Island offers a spring break vacation filled with variety and discovery. A five-day stay allows families to explore different regions of the island while still enjoying unhurried time together.
Booking early for spring break ensures the best selection of vacation rentals and provides time to plan activities at a relaxed pace. With warm weather, seasonal wildlife sightings, and hands-on experiences for every age, Hawaiʻi Island delivers a spring break trip that feels both adventurous and memorable.