In paradise I lei...🌺 Part 3
The Big Island is the third most visited and, as its name implies is the largest, covering 63% of the Hawaiian archipelago. The island is divided into 6 areas but the 2 major sides are known as Kona and Hilo. Kona being more touristy and suburban is where you can find most of the popular and major beach resorts. On the other hand, Hilo is the more tropical and quiet side.
As I couldn’t decide between the Mauna Kea Hotel and the Waikoloa Beach Marriott, I opted to split our stay in two in order to get a taste of both. In terms of accommodation and amenities, both hotels did not disappoint. But in terms of beach access, Mauna Kea is the unanimous winner. The beach is just a few steps from the hotel, with plenty of lounge chairs and tables along with beach umbrellas. The sand is soft and smooth and water is crystal clear. There’s also a cool beachfront bar and restaurant offering free fruits to guests during the day. Not sure though if this was a regular occurrence. I love how you can eat in casual open air setting with your toes dipped in the sand.
For the golf enthusiasts, the Mauna Kea Hotel features a championship golf course set in a majestic landscape amidst a breathtaking view of the ocean. Their iconic and intimidating par-3 hole 3 that requires a tee shot over the ocean, may likely challenge even a well-skilled player.
The Big Island is famous for its legendary volcanoes, stunning waterfalls, historical sites, abundant forests, gorgeous beaches, black sand beaches mainly due to volcanic debris and lots of beautiful sceneries. If you want to witness a volcano in motion, this is the place to go.
The Jaggar Museum at the Hawaiian Volcano National Park in Hilo has a view deck where you can see Halema‘uma‘u from a visibly good distance. Halema‘uma‘u is the crater of Mount Kilauea, one of two most active volcanoes in the island. I would suggest coming in early, before dark in order to secure a nice spot and be able to witness its dramatic transformation, from a regular volcanic landform into a radiantly giant glow-in-the-dark basin, as it spews out steam and flame from its massive opening.
While at the park, don’t forget to check Thurston Lava Tube, a 500 year old lava tube that is easily accessible by walking. Be prepared to get wet as you’ll be walking under a canopy of rich Hawaiian rainforest with water dripping from the ceiling. The tube is open 24 hours. Electrical lights have been recently installed to illuminate the tube but automatically go on and off by 10:00 am and 8:00 pm respectively. If you’re up for a bolder and more thrilling experience, go when the lights are off. But be sure to pack a handy light as it will be pitch dark inside.
Get a glimpse of the Hawaiian culture at the Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, a known place of refuge for those who broke the kapu law, which in old Hawaii is punishable by death. The park is situated along the south coast of Kona with its sacred grounds surrounded by coconut trees and guarded by carved tiki statues. Exploring the property may mean walking on sand, unpaved concrete and layers of dried lava debris under the scorching sun, but the calming and peaceful vibe it presents is enough compensation to get you going.
One seemingly striking route we took was at the World Botanical Gardens which provided a viewing access to the enchanting Umauma Falls, a triple tiered waterfall, with each fall standing consecutively on top of each other, surrounded by a lush pile of vegetation. As you walk past through, you will find a burial ground set in a charming tropical garden. Before you start feeling creepy, let me tell you that this is not your typical burial site, but a unique healing sanctuary featuring 10 gravestones, each representing an enemy that we commonly come face to face with, at least at one point in our human lives – anger, fear, hate, stress, destructive habits, unforgiveness, harmful beliefs, lies, illness, and all other unknown enemies. Choose which enemy you are currently fighting with, dig a hole and bury it in, while muttering a mantra. It won’t release you instantly from the burden, but it could initiate healing and coming to terms with whatever you’re going through at the moment. As of this writing, the Umauma falls and burial grounds can only be accessed through the Umauma Experience where you can also enjoy other activities like zip lining, hiking and ATV rides.
From the WBG, a 15-min drive will take you to the Akaka Falls State Park. Take a brief leisurely stroll on a paved path while feasting your eyes with the best of mother nature’s creation, to get to a lookout where you can enjoy a decent view of the stunning Akaka Falls, gracefully cascading 442 feet to the ground. A bonus treat awaits along the way, a second waterfall called the Kahuna Falls, a bit shorter at 100 feet but no less lovely and adorable.
These ladies and gentlemen sum up our experiences in the three beautiful islands of Hawaii. All are unique in their own special ways but each has a character distinct to itself. Oahu is vibrant and energetic, The Big Island is relaxed and exotic and Maui is somewhat in between. All three share the same enchanting beauty and inspiration.
I won’t be able to cover everything in this blog, so feel free to check the internet for other attractions and more activities that may pique your interest.
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