The Big Island of Hawaii is the newest and largest of the chain. Much of it is still considered old Hawaii because so much of the land is still virtually untouched. The Island is unlike the others as it is the only one where you can surf and snow ski all in the same day. Thanks to the five volcanoes on the Big Island, each section of the island offers a different landscape from lush green jungle to dry, desert-like plains.
Drive Around the Island
Driving around the entire island takes about four hours without stopping, so making it a day trip isn't troublesome. There are numerous beaches and points of interest to explore during the island drive, so plan for an eight hour day. The Puna district, which is located on the south end of the East side of the island, is home to one of the most popular snorkeling destinations in the world and is also where the volcanically heated ponds can be found.
Hilo provides the opportunity to jump off statues into the water at Coconut Island, and is also home to the Tsunami museum. Waimea is located on the Northern side of the island and is home to the cowboys, known in Hawaii as Paniolos. A seahorse museum is located just south of the Kona airport, and South Point is home to the only green sand beach on the island.
Visit the Lava
The active lava flow that has been erupting since 1983 isn't actually seen at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, but instead can be seen by driving to the visitor viewing area end of Hwy 130 which is about 12 miles east of the Volcano summit. Steam vents and activity at the summit can be viewed at the park which also offers numerous trails, lava tubes and a museum to explore.
Go Snorkeling
There are various marine sanctuaries found around the island, all of which provide excellent snorkeling opportunities due to the clear and calm waters in each area. Stores found in any major city around the island sell inexpensive snorkeling gear, and you can rent it in Hilo or Kona as well. Richardson's beach park in Hilo is famous for the sea turtles that don't have a problem swimming with snorkelers, and the Kapoho Tide pools found south of Pahoa on the east side of the island are home to thousands of protected sea creatures.
Experience the Horses
The Big Island is extremely engaged in the cowboy culture. You can find horses around the entire island as they are ridden on and off the local roads. Horseback riding in Waimea provides breathtaking views of the countryside and the ocean, while riding on the west side of the island is more like a desert experience. There are numerous wild horses in Waipio Valley, and a hike down the steep road (only 4x4 vehicles that are not rentals are allowed to drive down it) will afford you an up close and personal meeting with them.
Go Beach Hopping
The beaches in Hawaii are all free and they are all public, even the ones found behind hotels and private homes. The Big Island has different kinds of beaches depending on what part of the island you are on. The beaches on the west side of the island are mostly white sand beaches with easy access and conveniences like bathrooms. The east side of the island offers an entirely different perspective with its black sand beaches and dramatic lava cliffs that go on for miles. Water holes along the lava cliffs are great for getting wet and hanging out in. Some are even deep enough to swim in.
Hit the Slopes
Although the snow peaks of Mauna Kea are not easily accessible, a four wheel drive and some ski equipment is all that's needed to get some skiing or snowboarding in. There are no ski lifts or amenities on the mountain and most car rental companies will not allow their vehicles to be driven all the way up to the snow because it is not maintained, so hiring a guide such as Ski Guides Hawaii or going with friends who live in the area is required in order to enjoy this activity.
Member Comments