The Big Island, HI

Many Lands – One Paradise

The island of Hawaii, known as “The Big Island,” is the largest of the Hawai’ian Islands. Living up to its name, Hawaii encompasses over half the area of the entire chain of islands. It is a land of extremes that includes Mauna Loa – the world’s largest mountain by volume – and Mauna Kea – the world’s tallest mountain from its base on the seafloor to its peak. It also the home of Hawaii Volcanos National Park, which is where the world’s most active volcanos can be found. The land is so varied that the interior part of the island sees weather and temperatures that require warm clothes. It is this diverse land that makes Hawaii an incredible place to visit. A day on the Big Island can be spent relaxing on the beach, hiking snow-covered peaks and snorkeling in the clear blue waters.

The Big Island is extremely varied across its six regions that range from warm beaches and towns to mountainous, barren terrain. East Hawaii is the windward side where much of the precipitation falls and where Hilo – Hawaii’s biggest city – can be found. The land ranges from rainforest with waterfalls to dry open fields with horses and donkeys. West Hawaii is on the leeward side of the island and sees much warmer weather and far less rain. West Hawaii is the best place for ocean based activities like snorkeling, swimming and easy surfing. The northwest region is called Kohala and is where the top resorts and absolute world-class golfing can be found. Hamakua, on the east side, is where guests should take a helicopter tour to view the towering waterfalls, majestic cliffs and soft rolling hills. The east side of Hawaii is known as Puna and is where visitors can view active volcanos spilling into the bubbling sea to create newly formed land. Ka’u, is the least visited region on Hawaii and offers a more subdued experience with its vacation rentals, little beaches and tiny towns.

The Big Island truly has endless opportunities for every kind of holiday, from action-packed outdoor adventures to visits to national parks to time spent in the towns around the island. Hawaii Volcanos National Park offers trails that traverse tropical rain forests and snake along volcanic craters. To experience the abundant tropical sea life on Hawaii, the many snorkeling and scuba diving outfitters provide guides, equipment and training. Because Hawaii is so big, the best way to see the entire island is with a helicopter tour. Tours depart from Hilo and Kona and take guests above the incredible sights, including active volcanos, mountains valleys and unspoiled coastline. The accommodations on Hawaii are as varied as the land they are on. Everything from locally owned B&B’s to palatial major brand resorts are available for your time on Hawaii.