USA 2008 – Hawaii: Your days on “Big Island” – this is what you could do!

Having learned from our kind hosts at the Volcano Country Cottages, here some ideas what to do on “Big Island”.

Day 1:
Arrive and move in your apartment. Calm down, smell the air, listen to the forest, hear the raindrops falling, hug some trees – whatever, just bring yourself into the mood for exploring more. Having done that, drive down to Kalapana to see the lava melting into the ocean – and wait until the sun goes down to see more... Ask the guard if this is as close as possible you can drive to the lava if you want to avoid long walks during the night over the razor sharp lava stones. And don’t forget to bring enough water, lamps, good shoes and pants with you. On your way back drive into Pahoa and get a yummy dinner (e.g. at the Mexican restaurant “Luquin’s Cantina”).

Day 2:
Get up early and head to the Volcano National Park. You can get a very good lunch after 11 am (e.g. Sandwiches, Salads and Pizzas) at the restaurant in front of the park, right next to a small shop. Go back to the park and drive down the first street on your left hand side. You will have great sights over older lava fields and craters, and you can even take a walk over them. After having visited the park enjoy a sip of local wine at the “Volcano Winery” in the afternoon – tasting is free. When the sun has gone down go back to the park and drive down the chain of craters road to Kealakomo, if you like star gazing. But be aware: it’s windy and cold there, but surely worth it.

Day 3:
Heading to Hilo. If you have the chance go the local market (at least Wednesdays) before lunchtime. If you like shopping, check out Walmart and Ross – Dress for less near the airport. They will help you to fill up your bags… One thing you really shouldn’t miss is the “Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden”. It’s located at the “Scenic drive” between Hilo and Honomu. Give yourself enough time to see all the beauty and to sit down at the beach and watch the waves roll in. The 15$ entrance fee is worth every penny, trust me. Make sure to bring your camera with you to catch the orchids, birds and all the other marvelous sights. A little bit further down the road 220 you will find a sign to the Akaka Waterfalls. Indeed a nice look, but resist to only take a picture and rush on. The falls deserve a closer look.

Day 4:
Highway 11 direction Kona brings you at Mile 49, few minutes after the Volcano National Park, to a small Coffee shop at the side of the street. Don’t miss a chat with Lisa and try her fabulous coffee. With this caffeine boost you drive further down the road and keep left to the “Black Sandy Beach”. This is a great place to spot turtles. If you are hungry while driving through Na’alehu, give a try to Hana Hau, the “southernmost restaurant and bakery in the USA” – their promise is that you won’t get away hungry. The curvy road brings you then to Kona, there you will have the chance to shop and dine. Check out the beers at the Kona Brewery and meet the locals at the old airport while the sun is setting down.