The Big Island is the birthplace of King Kamehaha the Great.
On the Big Island of Hawaii you can stand at the southernmost tip of the United States or at the peak of the world's tallest mountain and volcano. On the same day, you can drink a cup of freshly brewed, world-famous Kona coffee while relaxing on the lanai of a coffee plantation, or hike the rim of one of the most active volcanoes on earth. The Big Island of Hawaii, the youngest of the eight main islands in the chain, is a haven for adventurers and history buffs.
City of Refuge
In ancient Hawaii, there were strict kapus, or laws. When a commoner broke a kapu, he was chased down and put to death, unless he could reach a puuhonua, or place of refuge, and receive absolution from a kahuna. Situated on the Kona coast, about 20 miles south of Kailua-Kona, lies one of the most well preserved of these refuges, Pu'uhonua o Honaunau, also known as the City of Refuge. History buffs will enjoy this archaeological site where you can watch canoes being crafted in the ancient tradition and view royal fishponds and petroglyphs. Hikers can use the trail, dating back to 1871, to view ancient temple and home sites. Even if you don't plan on hiking, sturdy walking shoes are recommended. It can get quite warm in Honaunau so be prepared with hats and sunscreen. The entrance fee in 2010 is $5.00 per vehicle. If arriving on foot or bicycle, the entrance fee is $3.00 per person.
Pu'uhonua o Honaunau
P. O. Box 129
Honaunau, HI 96726
808-328-2326
nps.gov/puho/
Volcanoes
The lava is flowing at Kilauea.
The Hawaiian Islands were formed as the result of volcanic action on the ocean floor. Each island has at least one volcano and the Big Island has five, including the largest volcano in the world, Mauna Loa, and one of the most active volcanoes on earth, Kilauea. In fact, Kilauea has been steadily erupting since 1983. Madame Pele, the goddess of Hawaii's volcanoes puts on a spectacular pyrotechnics show that any visit to the Big Island should include. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park offers views of the volcano, as well as both past and current eruptions. Tours are designed according to how much time visitors wish to spend exploring the area, either by car or on foot. Be aware that because the volcano is currently erupting, the gaseous fumes may be harmful to those with respiratory disease, children and pregnant women. Kilauea is located 98 miles from Kailua-Kona and 30 miles southwest of Hilo.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
1 Crater Rim Dr.
Hawaii National Park, HI 96718
808-985-6000
nps.gov/havo
Sport Fishing
It can take several hours to fight and land a huge billfish.
For over 50 years, anglers from around the globe have flocked to Kailua-Kona for the Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament. What most anglers seek, whether it's tournament or sport fishing, is the Pacific blue marlin. Marlin, as well as mahi mahi, and ahi, or tuna, thrive in the deep, warm waters off the Kona coast, and charter fishing boats are available to get you into the action. This is not an inexpensive activity, as the cost of a full-day, exclusive charter costs upwards of $750, depending upon the boat. You can economize by booking a half day charter, for under $600 or sharing the charter with others and the price comes down to $100 to $200 per person. All prices quoted are as of 2010. For people who thrive on adrenaline rushes, sport fishing in Kona is a must.
The Charter Desk
74-381 Kealakehe Parkway
Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
808-329-5735
Tags: Island Hawaii, National Park, active volcanoes, active volcanoes earth, City Refuge, Hawaii Volcanoes