The Big Island of Hawaii is Hot and Aromatic
Once you decide to vacation in Hawaii, you may have to choose which one of the many islands to stay on. The Big Island is the youngest of all the islands in Hawaii. Kilauea Volcano is still active increasing the land mass of this island.
The Big Island offers many different environments for vacationers to experience. Lush tropical rain forests ring the edges of snow capped mountains while the Kau Desert in Volcano National Park remains due to the northeast trade winds the keep this desert lifeless. The black sand beach of Punalu’u is one of the rarest natural wonders and a must see for any traveler.
Waipio Valley, nestled along the northeastern coast is referred to as the “Valley of Kings” by the locals. Modern highways span most of this area providing visitors with the ability to tour the area at a leisurely pace. Hiking trails and horseback riding trails are interspersed along the one mile long, five mile wide area. Waterfalls that appear to begin in the clouds plunge into pools of still water where visitors can stop and appreciate the pristine beauty of these natural wonders.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park features accommodations within the park. Many visitors find there are too many things to see and do in just one day. Three volcanoes, two of which are visible the third is under the ocean provide you with a glimpse into the power of nature.
Mauna Loa is considered the dormant volcano, last erupting in 1984.
Kilauea is still active! Molten lava churns and smoke rises much to the awe and delight of those who dare to visit.
Loihi continues to build itself deep under the ocean and may add a ninth island to Hawaii in another 250,000 years.
The park spreads over 330,000 acres in the southeast section of the Big Island. Driving tours, guided hiking trails, special programs such as films and ranger talks along helicopter tours are just a few of the many activities you will find available. Adventurous guest can even walk through a lava tube as it winds its way into the tropical rainforest.
Pristine beaches draw many visitors to Hawaii. The white sands of Samuel Spencer Beach Park make it one of the most frequented destinations on the Big Island. During peak travel periods it is quite crowded. Protected by a barrier reef the calm waters invite you to snorkel, scuba dive and float in the clear, refreshing water.
Within walking distance of this area you can experience the Pu’ukohola Heiau National Historic Site. This area provides visitors with a look into the past of the original inhabitants. This village built in the 1790’s by King Kanehameha I includes a temple. Many believe this temple was the last one built before western influence altered the Hawaiian culture.
Coffee connoisseurs will want to include a visit to the many coffee plantations on the Big Island. Located in the uplands of Kailua-Kona and Holualoa you will find over 600 coffee growers. Guided tours through the orchards include the history and meticulous processes that produces one of the most popular beverages on the planet.
Sometimes called the Kona Coast this is the only place in the world that is capable of growing Kona beans. A pound of 100% Kona beans will cost upwards of $27. Visitors however are treated to free samples of this aromatic beverage.
The diversity of the Hawaiian landscape, modern accommodations and nightly entertainment… who could resist a vacation on the Big Island?
C.L. Hendricks has been a Jill-of-all-trades and become an expert in some. She has also traveled extensively and now writes about travel destinations around the world for Vacation Things to Do and How to Get a Passport
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