The Big Island of Hawaii is one of the most fascinatingly surreal places on Earth. At twice the size of the other islands combined and with only 120,000 residents, the Big Island also offers big time excitement. At its southeast shore, the impressive Kilauea Volcano continues to append an eerie display of additional coastline. At the island's center, two majestic volcanic mountains, Mauna Kea and Moana Loa, dominate the landscape. Both summits are over 13,680 feet above sea level. Moana Loa, the world's largest volcano, is more than 32,000 feet above the ocean floor, making it taller than Mt. Everest! Mauna Kea is the largest island-based mountain in the world.
There are basically two substantial areas on the Big Island within which to lodge-the environs in and around Kailua-Kona and the Kohala Coast about 30 miles down the road, with its three major resorts-Mauna Kea, Mauna Lani and Waikoloa. Also perched slightly above the Kohala Coast is Waikoloa Village, with its array of condos and private homes. Over the other side of the island, about 40 minutes above Hilo, is Volcano Village and the sensational Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Perhaps a personal story best sums up the Big Island experience. Several years ago, I had the pleasure of bringing my mom and dad to the moonlike landscape that is on display on a vast expanse of the Big Island. As we drove from the Kona airport toward the Kohala Coast through miles of stark and foreboding lava fields, my mom turned to me and said, "Are we really spending 10 days here?" Ten days later, as our plane lifted off from Hilo airport I heard, "When are we coming back?"
Airports:
- Keahole-Kona (KOA)
- Hilo International (ITO)
Major City/Town:
- Hilo
- Kailua-Kona
- Kamuela-Waimea
Man-made attractions:
- Hawi town
- Hulihe'e Palace
- Painted Church
- Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden
Mostly nature-made attractions:
- Hawaii Volcanoes Nat'l Park
- Pololu Valley
- Kealakekua Bay & Refuge
- South Point
- Hapuna Beach State Park
- Green Sand Beach
- Punalu'u Black Sand Beach
- Rainbow Falls
- Akaka Falls
- Waipi'o Valley
Family Vacations in Hawaii
Plan your next Family Vacation on the Hawaiian Islands. We can help with travel packages that include hotel, air, and car rentals. We know the Hawaiian islands and can give you the best advcie on the attractions you want to see. HDG is a leader in Hawaii Vacations and we can arrange vacations for non-golfers and you'll enjoy excellent savings. Our knowledge of Hawaii, accommodations, tourist attractions, and great travel experiences ensures you'll get the best experience possible. Enjoy the beauty of Oahu, Kauai, Big Island and Maui. Are you hoping to Visit Honolulu, Kailua, Hilo, Kaneohe, Pearl City, Waimalu, Waipahu or other cities? You can take Hawaii tours, go Hiking, do Sport Fishing, Food Tours, and Sunset Cruises among other fun activities. Make your Hawaii vacation a priority and enjoy a holiday that will revitalize your spirit and rekindle your love of life.