Netgirl Enterprises Web Design Privacy Policy

Hawaii’s Big Island is not only the biggest island but also the youngest in the Hawai'ian archipelago.  And, it’s still growing.  There are 11 of the world’s 13 climatic zones on the Big Island.  The scenery is dramatic.  The beaches are beautiful.  And, if you were to ever tire of the out-of-doors, the Big Island has many historical and cultural sites to visit.  Here are some ideas for exploring Hawaii.

The Land

  • Hiking: The Big Island’s topography is dramatic and the landscape is varied.  Hike in the rainforests, along unoccupied sandy beaches or up to snow on a 14,000-foot peak. Take a long day trip or enjoy a short, kid-friendly walk. 

  • Biking: Follow the Kona Ironman course to Hawi and back, or take a friendly, less-strenuous tour in Waimea. Mountain bike in cowboy country. Lots of local locations rent bikes and provide maps.

  • Helicopter rides: See the volcanoes from a unique perspective.  View the ancient canyons of the Hamakua coast.  Blue Hawaiian Helicopters

  • Volcanoes: See the earth being born. Drive around the Mauna Loa crater and down the Chain of Craters road to watch the lava flow into the sea. Visit the famous Volcano House in the Volcanoes National Park.

The Sea

  • Fishing: Marlin fishing in Kona

  • Swimming/snorkeling: Swim in the warm Pacific waters off the white sands of the Mauna Kea Beach.  Snorkel the reefs on each end of the beach, or join a snorkeling tour in Kona.

  • Kayaking / Canoes: Rent a kayak,  and enjoy the island in a whole new way.

  • Tours: Swim with dolphins and watch the whales

Culture

   

  • Rockefeller Art Collection:  The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel is home to a 1,600 piece collection of Asian and Oceanic art assembled by Laurance Rockefeller in 1965.  Among the displayed pieces are Hawaiian quilts, tapa cloths, Polynesian treasures, and ceremonial items from China, Japan, Southeast Asia and India.

  • Performances:  Experience a a traditional Hawai'ian Luau.

  • Historical Sites: Visit ancient Hawaiian temple ruins, King Kamehameha I’s birthplace, or the place where Captain James Cook was killed by natives in 1779.