HAWAII – THE BIG ISLAND
Kilauea volcano on the big island is one of the few places in the world where you can see an active volcano. You can literally watch the island grow. Plan to visit the historic 150,000 acre Parker Ranch and learn about the Paniolos, Hawaiian cowboys. They have rodeos and other ranch activities for you to enjoy. As with all the other islands there are beautiful sandy beaches and unbelievable star-lit skies to take your breath away. As you travel along the roads you can observe the sugar cane and pineapple fields. If you like fruit, try the fruits from these fields, freshly harvested and with their natural juices at the peak. I think you will notice the difference from the fruit we generally buy at the super market.
| THINGS TO DO | THINGS TO SEE |
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The island of Hawaii is almost twice as big as the other five major islands combined. It was spawned from 5 major volcanoes over many centuries. Through the years these molten lava flows have forced their way over the land destroying every living thing in their path, eventually pushing into the sea. These flows sometimes taking many years to cool and eventually form the cliffs, sand dunes and the black-sand beaches you see today. This island has a diversity of landscapes and terrain, going from 13,796 Mauna Kea to a hot barren sandy beach in just a few minutes drive. Kilauea is said to be the worlds most active volcano. It can be accessed by SR 11 within Hawaii Volcano National Park by car and by foot. Access may be restricted at times due to volcanic activity. Park is usually open 24 hours a day and there is an admission fee.
Kilauea Volcano
Located within Hawaii Volcano National Park, Kilauea is one of the few relatively active volcanos in the world. This park is located 29 miles Southeast of Hilo. It consists of 333,000 acres. The park is open 24 hours each day. Crater Rim Drive is approximately 11 miles long and circles the Kilauea Caldera. The visitors center is located on Crater Rim Drive and is a good place to learn about this remarkable geological feature.
Parker Ranch
Established in 1847 by John Parker. The ranch with its 150,000 acres is beautiful, They have many activities available including ATV and horseback rides, rodeos, a visitors center where the operation of the ranch is explained. In addition to entertaining the many visitors this is a working cattle ranch and produces large amounts of quality beef each year.
Swimming Activities
Swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling and surfing are generally best around Kawaihea and Anacho Bay in the Kohula coast area, near Kona. In general the number of good beaches on thy "big island" are limited compared to the other islands. Rip tides can be vicious.
World Botanical Gardens
Located of SR 19 at mile post 16. This beautiful area consists of 275 acres and feature the Rainbow Gardens, the Rain forest walk, an arboretum, a stream, a childrens maze and a triple-tiered falls. You may select a guided or unguided tour as you walk through the trees, flowers and lush vegatation.
