I recently had the chance to visit the island of Hawaii, often referred to as the Big Island, and let me tell you, it was an absolute adventure. There’s just something about this place that makes it feel like a whole other world.
First of all, let’s talk about the island itself. Hawaii is the largest of the Hawaiian Islands, and it’s home to a variety of different landscapes, from sandy beaches and lush rainforests to snow-capped mountains and active volcanoes. It’s truly a place like no other.
Many Activites
One of the things I love most about the island is all the different activities you can do. Whether you’re into surfing, snorkeling, or just lounging on the beach, there’s something for everyone here. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even take a hike up to the top of Mauna Kea, which offers some of the most incredible views of the island.
But the island is more than just beaches and outdoor activities. The island is home to some of the best food in the state, with everything from delicious seafood to mouthwatering BBQ. And if you’re a fan of nightlife, then you won’t want to miss out on the vibrant bar scene in Kailua-Kona. It’s definitely worth staying out a little later to experience.
Excellent Shopping on the Island
And if you’re a fan of shopping, then you’re in luck. The island is home to some of the best shopping in the state, with everything from high-end designer stores to charming local boutiques. And if you’re looking for souvenirs, there are plenty of places where you can find unique and locally made items to bring home with you.
But even though the Big Island is a bit more developed than some of the other Hawaiian islands, it still has plenty of natural beauty to offer. The island is home to some stunning botanical gardens, and there are plenty of spots where you can enjoy the beauty of the island’s waterfalls and rainforests.
So, if you’re thinking about taking a trip to Hawaii and want to experience a bit of everything the islands have to offer, then I highly recommend giving the island a visit. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, there’s something for everyone on this amazing island. Aloha!
About the Big Island
The island of Hawaii is the largest and southernmost island of the Hawaiian archipelago. It is known for its diverse landscapes, including active volcanoes, black and white sand beaches, and snow-capped mountains. In this blog post, we will explore some of the unique features of the island of Hawaii and its geology, ecology, and history.
The Geology of the Big Island
First, let’s take a look at the geology of the island of Hawaii. The island was formed by volcanic activity and is home to five of the world’s most active volcanoes: Kilauea, Mauna Loa, Hualalai, Mauna Kea, and Loihi. Kilauea, in particular, is one of the most active volcanoes in the world, with a continuous eruption since 1983. The island’s highest peak, Mauna Kea, reaches an altitude of 13,796 feet and is considered one of the best places in the world for astronomical observation. The island’s cliffs and beaches are also unique, formed by volcanic activity and erosion, with black, white and green sand beaches.
The Ecology
The ecology of the island of Hawaii is also unique, with a diverse range of flora and fauna. The island is home to several unique ecosystems, including the rainforests of the Hamakua Coast, the volcanic deserts of the Kohala Mountains, and the alpine tundra of Mauna Kea. The island’s rainforests are also home to a variety of native Hawaiian plants, including the kukui tree, which is the state tree of Hawaii. The island’s coral reefs are also a popular destination for snorkelers and divers, as they are home to a variety of marine life, including sea turtles, dolphins, and humpback whales.
The History of the Island
The history of the island of Hawaii is also rich and unique. The island was settled by ancient Polynesians around 1000 AD, and it was later conquered by the Hawaiian chief Kamehameha I in the late 1700s. The island was then used for agriculture and ranching, and it later saw a growth in the tourism industry. Today, the island is a popular tourist destination, known for its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor activities.
The island of Hawaii is also home to a number of unique cultural and historical sites. The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, for example, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers visitors the chance to see the active volcanoes and learn about the island’s volcanic history. The Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park is also a popular destination, known for its traditional Hawaiian architecture and ancient Hawaiian temples.
The New Eco-Tourism
In recent years, the island of Hawaii has also become a popular destination for eco-tourism. Visitors can explore the island’s diverse landscapes, including the active volcano, black sand beaches, and snow-capped mountain, while also learning about the island’s traditional Hawaiian lifestyle and history. There are also a number of tour operators that offer guided eco-tours of the island, which allow visitors to experience the best of what the island of Hawaii has to offer.
One of the most popular activities on the island is hiking. The island of Hawaii offers a wide variety of trails, from easy nature walks to strenuous backcountry hikes. The Kilauea Iki Trail, for example, takes hikers through a volcanic crater and offers views of the active volcano. The Mauna Kea Summit Trail, on the other hand, takes hikers to the summit of the island’s highest peak and offers breathtaking views of the island and the surrounding ocean.
8 Great Things to Do on The Big Island
1. Haleakalā National Park: Sunrise Above the Clouds
Witnessing the sunrise from the summit of Haleakalā is a transformative experience. As the sun emerges above the horizon, it paints the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple, offering a mesmerizing view from over 10,000 feet above sea level.
2. Road to Hana: A Scenic Journey
The Road to Hana is a winding, scenic drive that takes you through lush rainforests, past cascading waterfalls, and along rugged coastlines. Stop at the black sand beaches, explore the Seven Sacred Pools, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Maui.
3. Molokini Crater: Snorkeling Adventure
This crescent-shaped, partially submerged volcanic crater is a marine sanctuary teeming with vibrant marine life. Molokini Crater offers some of the clearest waters for snorkeling, with visibility often exceeding 150 feet.
4. Iao Valley State Park: Walk Through History
Home to the iconic Iao Needle, the Iao Valley State Park is a lush region steeped in Hawaiian history. The park offers serene walking trails, showcasing Maui’s verdant landscapes and its cultural significance.
5. Waianapanapa State Park: Black Sand and Sea Caves
Located along the Road to Hana, Waianapanapa State Park boasts a stunning black sand beach, freshwater caves, and sea arches. The contrast of the dark sands against the turquoise waters creates a surreal and picturesque setting.
6. Maui Ocean Center: Marine Life Up Close
The Maui Ocean Center in Ma’alaea offers an in-depth look at Hawaii’s marine life. Walk through the 750,000-gallon Open Ocean exhibit with a 240-degree view acrylic tunnel and get up close with sharks, rays, and tropical fish.
7. Upcountry Maui: Farms, Food, and Lavender
The slopes of Haleakalā, known as Upcountry Maui, are home to farms, ranches, and the aromatic Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm. Explore the region, sample fresh produce, and immerse yourself in the fragrant fields of lavender.
8. Makena Beach State Park: Sun and Surf
Also known as Big Beach, Makena Beach offers golden sands and azure waters, making it perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and body surfing. The backdrop of black lava cliffs adds to its dramatic beauty.