Big Island recs for vacation with kids

[formerlyak]

We are taking the kids to Hawaii's big island in July. We are staying at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott as a point of reference, since I understand the island is large and not like Maui or Kauai where you can do things all over the island. The boys are 1 and 9. Any suggestions of fun activities or places to eat?

Thanks!

[pagas]

A day trip to Volcanoes National Park is a must. We took a helicopter tour with Blue Hawaiian, they were fantastic.

Cafe Pesto is a popular place on the north of the island, Finley loved the pizza there. There is a place upstairs from it that has burgers and stuff, but the main draw is Dole Whip. I love Da Poke Shack, amazing poke! Our favorite place is He'e, it is in an strip center near Kona, very unassuming place. The poke there is amazing and Finley said it was the best grilled cheese she has ever had.