This special ranch is located about an hour from Kona International Airport and just 15 minutes from the Waikoloa resorts at the 12,500-foot level of the Kohala Mountains. The ranch is situated in the midst of the small ranching town of Waimea where horses, cowboys and saddles don’t afford a second look. The ranch is over 100 years old and the historical value continues today in the preservation of the area’s history, artifacts and collections that are unique to Hawaii. The ranch has a wonderful gift shop filled with unique and special gifts. Tours are scheduled daily for those who want to be introduced to a special part of Hawaii’s history and culture.
Estimated to be between 200 and 1000 years old, these eerie, timeless remnants of Hawaii's past are at the end of a 0.7 mile paved trail. The trail is easy to maneuver and the scenery is amazing. The first part travels over a vast expanse of lava rock. Eventually it leads into a dry wood forest where crude symbols are carved into large rocks. The historic site is located in the Holoholokai Beach Park.
With its shade trees, picnic tables and gentle surf, this is a great place for family outings or afternoon naps. It is a quiet neighborhood beach just outside of Kawaihae. The same elements that draw swimmers and snorkelers tend to dissuade surfers, windsurfers and other thrill seekers. The shore-break is gentle and usually small. Facilities include barbecue pits, showers and even tennis courts. The soft, golden sands are usually not very crowded.
Standing tall at 13,803 feet (4,207.3 meters), Mauna Kea is the highest peak in the state of Hawaii. It is also one of five volcanic hot spots on the island, but is currently dormant, having witnessed its last eruption about 3,600 years ago. The mountain is sacred to the native Hawaiian people, and only high ranking members of the community were traditionally allowed to ascend the peak. Its summit is considered one of the best astronomical observation sites in the world and is home to a number of observatories. Numerous trails exist on the mountain, some of which lead up to the summit.
The tallest peak in Hawai'i, Mauna Kea is famed for snow dusted slopes through the winter season. Natural deposits left by Ice Age glaciers are easily visible to any science buff. People with an interest in archaeology may want to hike the 40-minute path to Lake Waiau, where an archaeological site still shows remnants of ancient pre-contact Hawai'i. Plenty of other people come here to get a good look at the island from the vantage point of 13,000 feet above sea level. Note: Limited access to rental cars. Check before attempting to make the drive.