Plus appréciés Attractions à Hawai'i (Big Island)

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.

This is one of the Big Island's best places to swim, sunbathe, picnic and bodysurf. A dirt road off Highway 19 (aka Queen Ka'ahumanu Highway), leads out to Mahai'ula Beach, where a picturesque crescent of golden sand meets the head of a protected bay. Kua Bay, located about a four-mile hike north from the beach, is a good place for more activities. Divers frequently visit the underwater tunnels and the shipwreck off shore. In vehicles that aren't four-wheelers, drives down the one-mile unpaved road to the beach will be a difficult one.

A visit to this site is a visit to one of the most historical and revered heiau in all of Polynesia. Located on a hill between Spencer Beach Park and Kawaihae Harbor, this heiau is dedicated to the Hawaiian War God Ku. It is the location where King Kamehameha launched the unification of the Hawaiian Islands after the death of Keoua. The area is sunny and warm, and the experience includes a short video, a gift shop and several attendants that will answer any questions and provide local insight to the temple, the area and more.

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.

Located along the main highway that connects Kawaihae to Hawi in North Kohala, Lapakahi State Historical Park is certainly off the beaten path. Quiet and pristine, this park offers an opportunity for visitors to learn more about life in pre-contact Hawaii. The native Hawaiian fishing village has been preserved in this arid area of the island. The self-guided tour will take you through some of the experiences and conditions of islanders and the way they lived in this coastal settlement. The area encompasses over 260 acres of land and includes restored remains of shelters, fishing ponds and much more. There is a visitors kiosk, displays, and restrooms are also available.

Located at the very end of the Honokaa-Waipio Road, this valley is perhaps one of the most sacred in the islands. Burial caves and other relics of ancient Hawaiians still exist in the valley. The endangered Hawaiian hawk is also spotted here. This place has beautiful waterfalls falling straight into the ocean, a black sand beach and friendly wild horses all around. The lookout point here unfolds breathtaking view of the area with deep blue sea, lush green mountains and a light blue sky. Today, the valley is home to taro farmers who live in a perfect harmony with the rich environs around them. The valley is accessible by trail or four-wheel drive vehicles only. It is a mesmerizing place one must visit at least once in his lifetime.