The Big Island of Hawaii is made for adventure lovers. It has more land mass than all the other major Hawaiian Islands put together, and it's still growing. The Kilauea volcano has been adding to the island's southern shore on a regular basis. The varied topography, undulating coastline and favorable weather invite biking, boating or hiking to explore this outdoor paradise.
Biking Hawaii
One way to get out and explore the Big Island is to pedal your way around it. Bring your own bicycle or rent one from a local firm and take to the roadways, which lead you past sandy beaches and craggy cliffs, and across volcanic deserts. Ride the route used in the annual Ironman World Championships. This 112-mile ride stretches from Kailua-Kona in the south to the tip of the Kohala Coast. Much of it goes through the Kau desert, created by volcanic eruptions over the centuries. If you'd rather not take the trip on your own, some companies offer escorted bike tours suitable for all skill levels.
Skiing Mauna Kea
It is hard to imagine going in search of snow on a tropical island. On Hawaii's Mauna Kea, which appropriately means "white mountain" it does snow heavily enough to entice skiers to take a run down the mountain. This is skiing at a primitive level; no groomed runs and no lifts. Take a four wheel drive and at least one of your closest friends and drive to the summit. All but one skis down the mountain, while the remaining person makes the four wheel drive to the base of the mountain to pick up the skiers. Mauna Kea does not get the massive snowfalls seen on the mainland, nor is there a lodge with a roaring fire to welcome you back from the slopes, but it is a true Hawaiian adventure.
Snorkeling South Kona
Explore the underwater world of Kealekekua Bay Marine Sanctuary. The bay is layered with coral reefs that are home to scores of tropical fish, resident pods of spinner dolphins and the occasional green sea turtles. The dolphins have little fear of humans and it's not unusual for them to swim and leap close to boats and snorkelers. This also is your chance to visit the monument to Captain Cook, which sits on the only bit of land that still belongs to England. This British explorer not only put Hawaii on the British maps, he died on this very spot. Visitors must swim or boat to this isolated landmark. Rent a kayak and explore the bay and the monument on your own or join one of the many tour companies on the island.
Deep Sea Fishing
Kona, Hawaii, is known for its world class deep sea fishing. The annual Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament, held each August, draws anglers from around the world looking for that record sized marlin. The fishing is great year round. Join a half day or full day charter boat and try your luck on hooking one of these mega fish. Hooking the fish isn't even half the battle. Marlins are fighters and they will test your strength and endurance all the way into the boat. Many of the charter firms practice "catch and release" after collecting data and/or tagging the fish. Get your workout and contribute to scientific study at the same time.
Volcano Hiking
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a designated World Heritage site, offers over 150 miles of trails. Hike through primeval fern forests that are a throwback to the dinosaur age. Climb down into Thurston Lava Tube and discover insect life in the dark tunnel left behind by lava flows. Take the trails around the crater Halemaumau and through dated lava fields, and learn how life returns to an area after being covered in molten rock. Learn the difference between the smooth ropy lava called "pahoehoe" and the sharp, crumbly covering known as "a'a." Rumor has it that the "a'a" got its name because that's the sound you make when stepping on it. Be safe and leave the hiking boots on.
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