We've visited Big Island 7 times over the past 10 years and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is truly the spectacular destination you can't find anywhere else in the world. Obviously, with each trip we'll make it a point to stop in Volcanoes National Park and do some hikes, listen to presentations, visit museums and sites at the National Park. In addition, Big Island is also special to observatories on Mauna Kea. Because of clear skies for much of the year, the summit of Mauna Kea is truly the world renown site to observe the stars. We make it a point to stop in at their visitor center. With small kids, we haven't had the pleasure of visiting the Summit yet, but plan to when the kids get old enough.
We continue to visit Hawaii each year, one of the reasons is for the culture and their friendliness, but the islands being the most secluded on earth, there is a feeling of isolation, but safe enough if any of the family members need medical attention, there is a hospital, doctors and dentists up the road. Occasionally, we'll stop in Waimea or Hawi and take in the local fare, but we like to partake in the various famous fare offered on the island. Which btw on the Big Island best cuisine in all of the islands offered. Over the years we visited SS&S, Mauna Kea Clambake/Sunday Brunch, Hakone Japanese Buffet, Monstera, Sam Choy's, Hilo Bay Cafe, Merrimans, Charlie Thai, Hapuna Prince Crab Night, Kona Village Luau, Gathering of the Kings (some of these events are legends,a nd no longer). Lighter Fare we've eaten at Ken's, Big Island Grill, Pine Tree Cafe, Kiawe Kitchen, etc. Run of the mill fare such as Ruth's Chris, Tommy Bahama's, Browns Beachhouse, Sansei are favorites as a family, and very kid friendly. Vanilla Bean Factory has an excellent lunch as well. We like to sun, fun, eat and explore. Perhaps though we have a different taste in what we want to do as we have kids and have to keep it family friendly. I understand there is underground secret findings to explore, and there is going to be endless opportunities to explore local life. At the end of the day, the events we undertake and nourishment consumed needs to be kid friendly. Having sick kids would not be fun on any vacation.