Hawaii- Big Island, Big Attractions

What are the features which draw people to return to Hawaii's Big Island year after year? Is it the call of the mountain's, the rain forest, and the waterfalls? Is it the charm of the small villages, or the open spaces of the upland ranches and coffee plantations? Maybe it is just the magnificent beaches, and the world-class restaurants and hotels. Perhaps it is the magical secret garden known as the Valley of the Kings.

It could be the fascinating Kilauea Volcano, the lava flows of which are still shaping the island. The truth is that there is many reasons to return to the big Island as there are visitors who return to it.

If you are about to embark on your first visit to Hawaii's Big Island, however, you are in for the most magical vacation of your life. The Big Island is a study in contrasts where vast areas of pristine land border dynamic cities like Kona. If you are like most tourists, in fact, you will begin your stay on the island in Kona. Doing so will give you a chance to get your bearings, to soak up some sun on the Big Island's beaches, and enjoy some of Hawaii's underwater marvels by snorkeling through the coral reef in Kealakekuea Bay.  If you prefer to enjoy the water from above, rented kayak and paddle through the paths of spinner dolphins on your way to Captain Cook's monument.

You cannot leave the big Island without having visited a Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The Kilauea Volcano has been spewing lava for the past quarter century and is only one of the Big Island's five live volcanoes. The Mauna Loa volcano last erupted in 1984, but geologists expect that it will erupt again at any time.  Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has more than 140 miles of trails, and you really need to camp there if you are going to take advantage of your opportunities for exploration. Even if your time is limited, however, you should make a point of driving through the entire park.

The enormous amounts of rainfall which cascade on the city of Hilo each year have earned it the title of America's rainiest city. Do not let that prevent you from visiting, however, because this historic and charming little town will offer perfect picture taking opportunities with its 20 acre Nani Mau Gardens, and the legendary Naha and Pinao Stones. The Pinao Stone is said to them once been an entrance pillar to an ancient temple on the Wailuku River. Kamehameha the Great, the founder of Hawaii, is said to have 2 1/2 ton Naha Stone while still a teenager.

The town of Puako, just outside the Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area, is known for its enormous tide pools, which shelter numerous sea creatures including live corals.  Puako, however, is not on the major tourist routes, so there are few facilities there.

If you think any scenery looks better when viewed from the back of a horse, head for King’s Trail Rides O’Kona.  Their two-hour excursion will take you to the Capain. Cook monument at Kalakekua Bay, where you can enjoy a bit of snorkeling before remounting and returning to be stable. For a full day in the saddle, driving five-hour hidden waterfall adventure offered at the Waipi’o Ridge Stables.  You will circle the rim of the Waipi’o Valley and be given time to refresh yourself with a dip in the waterfall.

A rugged trail winds through the lush green spaces of the Pololu Valley, descending to Polulo Beach and a jagged coastline complete with a number of waterfalls. If you find the trail to challenging on foot, you can hire a sure-footed mule. The valleys beyond the Pololu Valley are the source of water for the big Island's Kohala Ditch, once used to transport water to the local sugar plantations. Kayak cruises are available through the ditch, if you are interested in learning more about the history of the sugar plantations.

No matter where you go on the Big Island, you will see more than you can fully appreciate in a single visit. So why not take it for granted that your first visit to the Big Island will be only one of many, many more!