Big Island advice would be great

[PasadenaTrudy]

I'm thinking of going to the Big Island this spring. I've been to Kauai three times, now I really want to try a different island. I've always wanted to go to Volcano Natl. Park. The island looks so huge it is overwhelming! I'm not sure where I should stay. Volcano, which looks really lush and at a high elevation? Down the hill in Hilo? I don't think I would like the Kona side as much, as I'm not a resort and beach person. When I visit Kauai, I stay way up on the north shore. I never go to the south and west sides of the island because they are too hot and dry.

thanks for any help!