With almost 800 kilometres of paved road and a plethora of natural wonders on which to feast your eyes, Hawaii's Big Island is a road tripper's paradise. Literally. From lush rainforests and volcanic deserts to beautiful beaches and snowcapped mountains, this island has it all. It is also home to one of the world's most active volcanoes, the world's largest sea mountain and the most massive mountain in the world. Not to mention Hawaii Volcanoes National Park where visitors can watch fiery molten magma flowing into the sea.

 

Big Island also has plenty of culture on offer for those who want to see the man-made sights. Head up to cowboy country in Waimea in the island's north to see paniolo (Hawaiian cowboys) working on the cattle ranches, or roll down the windows and put back the roof to make plenty of room for purchases when you visit the historic Kailua Village.

 

Luxury Stay. There are more resorts here than you can poke a well-manicured fingernail at, but TLTB likes the Four Seasons Hualalai at Historic Ka'upulehu. The resort is oceanfront on the island's most exclusive stretch of coast, and in addition to gorgeous spacious suites, it has a newly expanded spa, high-end shopping for those who can't bear to leave and a Jack Nicklaus signature golf course.