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.
Among Big Island's white sand spots, this one stands out and is regularly ranked among the top beaches in the world. The sand is sugar-fine, warm and clean and stretches as far as the eye can see. The waves are deep blue in the distance, foamy when they hit the shore. The strip also has great facilities like a paved walkway leading from the parking lot, which is a rarity in Hawaii. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day on the beach, an opportunity to explore marine life, or a picturesque spot to watch the sunset, this beach park has something to offer for everyone seeking a taste of Hawaii's paradise.
For an experience extraordinaire, arrange for a visit to the Subaru Telescope site atop Hawaii's dormant volcano. For as many as 15 days a month, 30-minute tours are organized for those interested in increasing their knowledge of the fiery bowels of the earth. Both Japanese and English guides will aid tourists, but children and those susceptible to illness are strictly barred. Reservations should be made a week in advance and participants are expected to be dressed for a rough walk. After intense preparations, one will be rewarded with awesome views of naturally sculpted landscapes and loads of information about volcanoes.
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.
As if a fantastic range of offerings for avid shoppers was not enough, The Shops at Mauna Lani bring a slice of enchanting Hawaiian culture to visitors. Every week on Monday and Thursday at 7p, folks in the area gather around the Center Stage in the mall for a viewing of Polynesian hula shows. These spectacular shows are performed by the Te'E'a O Te Turama troupe, and are free of charge. Talented dancers put on a fantastic hula dance, including the traditional Maori welcome ceremony and the traditional Kupaianaha show.
The Gates Performing Arts Center showcases the talents of students attending the Hawaii Preparatory Academy. The center includes a variety of multipurpose spaces including a style stage, costume rooms and a dance floor. With a comfortable capacity of 360, the center often sees a packed audience for performances.
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.
Among Big Island's white sand spots, this one stands out and is regularly ranked among the top beaches in the world. The sand is sugar-fine, warm and clean and stretches as far as the eye can see. The waves are deep blue in the distance, foamy when they hit the shore. The strip also has great facilities like a paved walkway leading from the parking lot, which is a rarity in Hawaii. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day on the beach, an opportunity to explore marine life, or a picturesque spot to watch the sunset, this beach park has something to offer for everyone seeking a taste of Hawaii's paradise.
For an experience extraordinaire, arrange for a visit to the Subaru Telescope site atop Hawaii's dormant volcano. For as many as 15 days a month, 30-minute tours are organized for those interested in increasing their knowledge of the fiery bowels of the earth. Both Japanese and English guides will aid tourists, but children and those susceptible to illness are strictly barred. Reservations should be made a week in advance and participants are expected to be dressed for a rough walk. After intense preparations, one will be rewarded with awesome views of naturally sculpted landscapes and loads of information about volcanoes.
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.
The Gates Performing Arts Center showcases the talents of students attending the Hawaii Preparatory Academy. The center includes a variety of multipurpose spaces including a style stage, costume rooms and a dance floor. With a comfortable capacity of 360, the center often sees a packed audience for performances.
As if a fantastic range of offerings for avid shoppers was not enough, The Shops at Mauna Lani bring a slice of enchanting Hawaiian culture to visitors. Every week on Monday and Thursday at 7p, folks in the area gather around the Center Stage in the mall for a viewing of Polynesian hula shows. These spectacular shows are performed by the Te'E'a O Te Turama troupe, and are free of charge. Talented dancers put on a fantastic hula dance, including the traditional Maori welcome ceremony and the traditional Kupaianaha show.