Tour a working cattle ranch, Kahua Ranch, on a rugged all-terrain vehicle; it's the way the modern paniolos do it. Motor across open pastures, up hillsides and down rocky slopes. The terrain is varied and challenging. A shooting range is on the property. You can also opt for horseback-rides, followed by a barbecue dinner with a mesmerizing landscape in the backdrop. Call for rates and reservations.
The art of Hawai'i and Polynesia has a distinctive style that appeals to a variety of people from around the world. Visit this gallery and see it for yourself. The upcountry venue features the work of some of Hawaii's best artists and crafters. You will see paintings and sculptures, jewelry, Koa wood furniture and Hawaiian quilts. Also available are tribal art of the Pacific and pieces from Indonesia and New Guinea.
Nestled on the southern foothills of Mauna Kea, Mauna Kea State Recreation Area may be less famous than its counterparts, but remains a popular stop among visitors who come to see the stunning dormant volcano. This volcano forms a formidable backdrop for the surrounding scenery. The recreation area is set in the Mauna Kea Forest Reserve and spans across 20 acres (8.09 hectares) of wilderness. Trails crisscross over shrub-lands to form the landscape of this dry and windy terrain. There are camping and picnic facilities as well as a playground for children.
Situated on the majestic Mauna Kea, Onizuka Center for International Astronomy Visitor Information Station is where you can get all the information you need about the mountain and its observatories. Through visual displays and info-graphs, the center provides an overview of the history of the observatories, along with the cultural significance of Mauna Kea. This is also the spot used by hikers and climbers for a much need acclimatizing stop, before conquering 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.