Hawaii Vacations: Big Island Vacations
With your tour guide,
Anne P. Mitchell
| Summary: When thinking of Hawaii vacations, do you think of skiing? Black, green, or gold sand? You'll find these, and more, on a Big Island vacation! |
Travel to any major Hawaiian island and you’ll find some of the most amazing places on earth to scuba dive, snorkel, swim and sunbathe. Travel to Hawaii’s Big Island and you’ll also find a great place to ski and some of the most unique beaches in the world. On Hawaii’s Big Island you’ll find an unusual assortment of mesmerizing black sand beaches, brilliant green sand beaches and sparkling gold sand beaches.
The Big Island is home to Punalu’u Beach, one of the few black sand beaches in the world. Located on the southeast part of the island, Punalu’u Beach is covered in soft lava granules that many describe as calming and soothing underneath the feet. Visitors can swim, kayak and picnic on Punalu’u Beach and there is also a curio shop which sells a variety of unique souvenirs.
The Big Island’s green sand beach, Papakolea Beach, is located in the Kau District on the southwestern part of the island. The journey to the beach by 4×4 and on foot can be a difficult one so wear comfortable shoes, bring plenty of sunscreen, food and water, and keep in mind that there are no bathrooms on the hike from the 4×4 to the beach. Plan to spend 2-3 hours on the excursion all together. While this hike can be challenging and strenuous at times, the rewards are truly great. Where else in the world can you walk on an emerald green sand beach covered in crushed olivine?
Once you’ve explored some of the most unique beaches on the planet, why not indulge in underwater exploration by submarine or explore the island on horseback? Atlantis Submarines features a 48-passenger submarine that will take you 100-feet beneath the surface to explore vast coral reefs and spectacular marine life. The tour is typically 1.5 hours and the cost may range from $80-$115 per person. Call 888-609-5665 to book a tour, or you can visit the website at www.allbigislandhawaiitours.com.
Visitors to Hawaii’s Big Island have endless opportunities to explore, but an exciting way to experience the island and the great Hawaiian outdoors is by horseback. The Hidden Valley Waterfall Ride is a five-hour horseback/hiking tour that takes the rider on a tour of dozens of waterfalls, small and large. Riders will also have to opportunity to picnic and swim underneath many majestic waterfalls. For further information or to book a tour, call 877-877-1222 or visit www.hawaiiactivities.com.
The ultimate Big Island adventure doesn’t involve touring on horseback, swimming underneath a waterfall or exploring black sand beaches. While these experiences are very unique and exciting, there’s nothing like looking down from a snow-capped peak and seeing the ocean at your feet. With 2400 acres of skiable area, Mauna Kea (which means ‘White Mountain’ in Hawaiian) on the Big Island offers the ultimate skiing adventure. You’ll need a four-wheel drive vehicle to get to Mauna Kea and you won’t find any lifts, lodges or equipment rentals here, so come prepared and brace yourself for a pure and unforgettable skiing experience. There are also many world-class observatories along the way. For information about Manua Kea observatories, phone 808-961-2180.
Strange but beautiful beaches, an unusual but exhilarating ski destination, and a place that takes underwater exploration to new levels - Hawaii’s Big Island never ceases to amaze its natives and visitors alike, just as it will amaze you.
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