The Big Island of Hawaii is known for its truly best kept secrets; they are secrets because, often, visitors can't find the places that are mentioned in guidebooks! Hawaiian people really keep their favorite places quiet; you won't find billboards that guide you to a particular place, nor will you see big ads or even a mere mention of some of the area's most interesting attractions! Therefore, before you leave for the Big Island, buy a good guidebook and scour it for information and directions and read up on some of the Big Island's secret gems here.

The first secret gem is the Green Sand (Mahana) Beach that is located on the east side of South Point. Believe me, you won't casually find this place: You need to know exactly where it is. To get to the beach, you have to walk a little more than two miles from Kaulana Boat Launch on a dirt road (or rent a four wheel-drive vehicle). At the end of the road, you will be rewarded by a beautiful view of the beach: The unique green sand is created by the constant waves eroding and mixing black sand with the semi-precious gem olivine. Some visitors have claimed that sometimes it's possible to find large nuggets of the mineral here. Even though it takes some effort to get to it, don't miss the rare opportunity of seeing this green sand beach! 

Two other of Hawaii's best secret gems are the Champagne Pond and Ahalanui Warm Spring. We did find the Warm Spring but couldn't find the Champagne Pond even with a map; it might be that somebody's private property has closed access to the pond. However, you might have better luck finding this unique and interesting attraction. These two ponds are located in Lower Puna on Kapoho Bay. You will be surprised to discover crystal clear, volcanically-heated ponds, which have marine life swimming in them. It is very cool to find yourself in a naturally created hot tub with temperatures of 90 degrees or greater.

Looking for a nice, secluded beach? Kekaha Kai Beach (also Mahaiula) is just outside of Kona. It is great for swimming and strolling and only requires a five-minute walk to get to it. The black sand beach Makolea, just north of Kona, is unknown even to locals; you might just find some fishermen who know about it, but that's about it. To reach this beach, you have to park your car Kekaha Kai State Park's beach and walk along the shoreline for 20 minutes. It's a perfect place for snorkeling and scuba diving.

In my opinion, many places in Hawaii's Big Island, outside of Hilo and Kona, are secret gems since people often come to the Big Island and don't venture beyond these cities. So, if you want to see something off the beaten path, search for the sights. Bring detailed maps with you, and don't be afraid to ask local residents for advice.

This tidbit of real travel advice was contributed by seasoned traveler Taylor Shay. 

Heading to the Big Island to find some hidden gems of your own? Book a vacation home and hop on the next plane there!

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