The Big Island of Hawaii, a Vacation Paradise
If you are looking for a lush tropical Hawaiian vacation, consider the Big Island of Hawaii, one of the newest islands in the Hawaiian chain of Oahu, Maui, Kauai, Lanai, or even Molokai…
Jan Geiser of James TravelPOINTS recently visited the Big Island of Hawaii with her husband to re-visit and experience island paradise.
The Big Island of Hawaii, also known as the Orchid Isle, is the youngest and largest of the Hawaiian islands. Its land mass is twice as large as all the other main Hawaiian islands combined.
Here, there are always many new adventures to be had, with its diverse geological areas covering huge tracts of land. From fresh lava flows on the south end, to fertile fern forests on the Hilo side, and from cool upland northern side of the Kilauea Volcano area, the lush valleys on the Hamakua Coast, to the cool rolling ranch lands of Waimea and Hawaii and even to the snow-capped, winter mountain peaks and everything in between; the Big Island can’t be beat for its size and diversity.
The Big Island offers plenty of adventures and activities that will give you guaranteed thrills and lasting memories. It’s the only island where you can fly over an active volcano or watch lava flow into the sea from the land, sea or air (volcano permitting). At Kealakekua Bay you can kayak and snorkel in some of the island’s most pristine waters. There are many adventure options as well, such as waterfall hikes, a heap of ocean activities, one of the most popular is whale watch boat trips (in the winter). While enjoying a SNUBA or snorkel above reefs filled with colorful fish, you may spot the docile Honu (green sea turtles).
Try an ATV ride or horseback through tropical rain forests to hidden waterfalls.
The Kona Coast is known for its Technicolor sunsets, which when combined create the magical world of
“Manta Heaven”. Night time manta ray snorkel and dive excursions will give you an out-of-this-world experience, you’ll never forget. Kona is also known for its big game fishing and has acquired a well-deserved reputation as “blue marlin capital” of the world.
The Big Island is also home to the world’s most active volcanoes. A visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is one of the biggest visitor destinations in the State and a must see destination. It is an extraordinary geological wonderland. You will experience an extraordinary showcase of Hawaii’s forces of creation and destruction from fresh barren lava flows to thick and earthy fern forests. You can even walk through the
Thurston Lava Tube. You can feel the heat and smell the sulphur emitting from steam vents bordering the Kilauea Crater. As a result of the current lava flows, the newest Hawaiian island, Loihi, is under construction 22 miles offshore to the southeast.
Resorts for every travel budget can be found on the island of Hawaii.
One resort recently completed its multi-million dollar repair and renovation.
Here, your deluxe ocean view accommodations offer beautiful furnishings and amenities including a rain shower with private views of the ocean. Exceptional cuisine is offered in its numerous dining venues.
This resort fronts a Kauna’oa Beach recognized by readers of Conde Nast as one of the best beaches in the world. Golf is available at reduced rates for its guests on its 18-hole, par 72 championship course.
Another premier resort in the Hualalai area has also just completed its renovations.
Deluxe accommodations with private lanais include an outdoor tropical shower complete with bamboo, orchids and ferns. Excellent dining is available ocean side.
This resort offers something for everyone — tennis, sports club and spa with lap pool, numerous pools including King’s Pond. Here you can actually swim with the fish and resident manta ray.
For adventure seekers there is even a rock climbing wall. For golfers, another world class course.
In fact, the island of Hawaii has a total of 25 golf courses.
Hawaii offers culture and history not found on the other islands. Hawaii was the birthplace of the great King Kamehameha I. Numerous heiaus (ancient Hawaiian shrines) dot the island. You can also view petroglyphs and wood carvings of gods. A week would be just an introduction to just some of the 101 Things to Do on the Big Island of Hawaii. To learn more about this island and other Hawaiian vacations, contact Jan at 303-442-2340 at James TravelPOINTS.
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