The essential guide to sustainable tourism on Big Island Hawaii

Big Island Hawaii is a dream destination for many travelers. It is the largest and most diverse of the Hawaiian islands, offering a range of natural wonders, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures. Whether you want to explore the active volcanoes, swim with the dolphins, hike through the rainforests, or relax on the beaches, Big Island Hawaii has something for everyone.

But Big Island Hawaii is also a fragile and precious place that needs our respect and care. As tourists, we have a responsibility to minimize our impact on the island’s environment and its people. We can do this by practicing sustainable tourism, which means traveling in a way that conserves natural resources, supports local communities, and enhances cultural awareness.

Here are some tips and recommendations on how to be a sustainable tourist on Big Island Hawaii.

Choose eco-friendly accommodation and transportation.

One of the first steps to being a sustainable tourist on Big Island Hawaii is to choose eco-friendly accommodation and transportation. This means staying at hotels, resorts, or lodges that have green certifications or policies, such as using renewable energy sources, recycling waste, saving water, or supporting local conservation projects. Some examples of eco-friendly accommodation on Big Island Hawaii are Volcano Village Lodge, Hilton Waikoloa Village, and Kona Coast Resort.

Another step is to use public transportation or alternative modes of transportation whenever possible, such as buses, shuttles, bikes, or walking. This reduces your carbon footprint and also allows you to experience the island more authentically. If you need to rent a car, opt for a hybrid or electric vehicle and drive responsibly. You can also join organized tours or activities that use eco-friendly vehicles or methods, such as electric bikes, kayaks, or sailboats.

Support local businesses and products.

Another way to be a sustainable tourist on Big Island Hawaii is to support local businesses and products. This means buying souvenirs, food, or services from local vendors, artisans, farmers, or cooperatives that use sustainable practices and materials. This helps the local economy and preserves the island’s culture and traditions. Some examples of local products that you can buy on Big Island Hawaii are Kona coffee, macadamia nuts, honey, chocolate, soap, jewelry, or art.

You can also support local businesses and products by eating at local restaurants or cafes that serve authentic Hawaiian cuisine or dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. This reduces your food miles and also allows you to taste the island’s flavors and specialties. Some examples of local restaurants or cafes that you can eat at on Big Island Hawaii are Hilo Bay Cafe, Island Lava Java, or Merriman’s.

Respect the wildlife and their habitats.

Another aspect of being a sustainable tourist on Big Island Hawaii is to respect the wildlife and their habitats. This means observing the wildlife from a safe distance, not feeding, touching, or harassing them, and following the guidelines and regulations of the wildlife authorities or experts. This protects the wildlife and their habitats from harm and stress and also ensures your safety and enjoyment. Some examples of wildlife that you can see on Big Island Hawaii are sea turtles, dolphins, whales, manta rays, birds, or insects.

You can also respect the wildlife and their habitats by avoiding activities that damage or disturb them, such as littering, trampling vegetation, making loud noises, or using flash photography. You can also join activities that help conserve or restore them, such as volunteering for beach cleanups, reef surveys, or native plantings. Some examples of organizations that offer such activities on Big Island Hawaii are Hawaii Wildlife Fund, Malama Maunalua, or The Nature Conservancy of Hawaii.

Learn about the culture and history of Big Island Hawaii.

The final tip for being a sustainable tourist on Big Island Hawaii is to learn about the culture and history of the island. This means visiting cultural sites, museums, or monuments that showcase the island’s heritage and diversity. This increases your cultural awareness and appreciation and also supports the preservation and promotion of the island’s culture and history. Some examples of cultural sites, museums, or monuments that you can visit on Big Island Hawaii are Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, Hulihe’e Palace, or Imiloa Astronomy Center.

You can also learn about the culture and history of Big Island Hawaii by interacting with the local people, especially the native Hawaiians, who have a deep connection and respect for the land, the sea, and the sky. They practice traditional customs and rituals that honor their ancestors and their environment. They also share their stories, legends, music, dance, art, and cuisine with visitors and newcomers who want to learn more about their rich heritage.

Conclusion

Big Island Hawaii is a dream destination that offers a range of natural wonders, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures. But it is also a fragile and precious place that needs our respect and care. We can be sustainable tourists on Big Island Hawaii by choosing eco-friendly accommodation and transportation; supporting local businesses and products; respecting the wildlife and their habitats; and learning about the culture and history of the island. By doing so, we can enjoy the island’s beauty and diversity without compromising its health and sustainability. We can also contribute to its economic and social well-being and enhance our own travel experience.