Out and about the Big Island…
Incredible rock formations and awesome blue waves are a short walk away. For miles along the cliffs, wait for a refreshing mist or even a splash from an incoming wave. Prop a fishing rod in one of the PVC holders set in the rocks.
Watch for the giant sea turtles bobbing in the water below, close to shore. In winter months, notice whales arching in the distance.
The Big Island is best known for its active volcano. Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park is 25 minutes away. Drive 20 minutes more to the current lava flow to the ocean.
Snorkel in nearby Kapoho. Nearby is an incredible huge hot springs swimming hole with lots of fish. Its gentle, comfortable waters are ideal for learning snorkelers.
Also nearby, you'll find a wide variety of restaurants, including Pahoa's offering of the best Thai-style cuisine in Hawai‘i. (For breakfast, try pancakes with coconut syrup, a popular and exquisite treat hard to find elsewhere in the world!)
Kona's sandy beaches and grand hotels, on the other side of the island, are just two hours away.
Within a half hour's travel are the three most popular surfing beaches and Hilo's swimming areas. You'll find lots of places for scuba diving, shoreline and deep sea fishing, outrigger canoeing, and kayaking.
Hiking and biking is right outside the front door. When it snows on Mauna Kea, skiing is 1½ hours away.
Hilo boasts the University of Hawaii.
Enjoy the flea markets: one on the way south to Pahoa and another in downtown Hilo. Watch for farmers' markets, orchid farms, and macadamia nut sellers all over. Savor fresh Hawai‘i!