BIG ISLAND
HAWAII…The Big Island
Hawaii is not only the largest island in the chain. But it is growing larger every day. That is a result of the lava flow from Kiluea, the only active volcano in the state. The lava flows slowly to the ocean, where its impact with the sea causes billow of steam to rise and actually creates new land shelves in the same way the entire island chain was created many years ago. The volcano is such a major attraction, it is surrounded by its own park, Volcanoes National Park.
The Big Island’s size also contributes to a variety of visitor and living experiences. There are 11 different climate zones that create every environment from lush tropical rain forests to arid deserts to snow capped mountain peaks. In fact, it is not unusual to land at Kailua-Kona International Airport and to be welcomed by temperatures in then eighties while enjoying a vista of snow atop Mauna Kea, the world’s tallest mountain measured from the ocean floor.
The largest island is over 4.083 square miles with 266 miles of coastline, and is believed to be the first Hawaiian Island discovered by Polynesians. The island is home to numerous ancient Hawaiian temples and is known as the birthplace of Kamehameha 1, also referred to as Kamehameha The Great, whose signal accomplishment was the unification of the Hawaiian Islands under his rule.
Some highlights of the Big Island include:
Hilo: The rainiest city in the state is know for its historic downtown section, its picturesque harbor and some of the most affordable housing opportunities in Hawaii. Hilo is also the government center and County Seat for the Big Island.
The Hamakua Coast: A pristine and rugged coastal section with magnificent vistas, relatively low population and lush forests. The drive along this coast takes some time, but the natural setting is so spectacular makes every minute worth it.
The Kohala Coast: Noted for its beautiful beaches, warm climate and world-class resorts and golf courses. Some of the more notable Destinations include Mauna Kea, Mauna Lani, Hualalai and Keauhou, all located close to Kona
International Airport and Kailua-Kona.
Mauna Kea: Take an excursion here to play in the snow while overlooking the sun-baked shores over 13,000 feet below. Make your visit part of a tour and parkas will be provided, which are necessary as the temperature around the peak’s observatories is usually at freezing or below.
Hawaii is not only the largest island in the chain. But it is growing larger every day. That is a result of the lava flow from Kiluea, the only active volcano in the state. The lava flows slowly to the ocean, where its impact with the sea causes billow of steam to rise and actually creates new land shelves in the same way the entire island chain was created many years ago. The volcano is such a major attraction, it is surrounded by its own park, Volcanoes National Park.
The Big Island’s size also contributes to a variety of visitor and living experiences. There are 11 different climate zones that create every environment from lush tropical rain forests to arid deserts to snow capped mountain peaks. In fact, it is not unusual to land at Kailua-Kona International Airport and to be welcomed by temperatures in then eighties while enjoying a vista of snow atop Mauna Kea, the world’s tallest mountain measured from the ocean floor.
The largest island is over 4.083 square miles with 266 miles of coastline, and is believed to be the first Hawaiian Island discovered by Polynesians. The island is home to numerous ancient Hawaiian temples and is known as the birthplace of Kamehameha 1, also referred to as Kamehameha The Great, whose signal accomplishment was the unification of the Hawaiian Islands under his rule.
Some highlights of the Big Island include:
Hilo: The rainiest city in the state is know for its historic downtown section, its picturesque harbor and some of the most affordable housing opportunities in Hawaii. Hilo is also the government center and County Seat for the Big Island.
The Hamakua Coast: A pristine and rugged coastal section with magnificent vistas, relatively low population and lush forests. The drive along this coast takes some time, but the natural setting is so spectacular makes every minute worth it.
The Kohala Coast: Noted for its beautiful beaches, warm climate and world-class resorts and golf courses. Some of the more notable Destinations include Mauna Kea, Mauna Lani, Hualalai and Keauhou, all located close to Kona
International Airport and Kailua-Kona.
Mauna Kea: Take an excursion here to play in the snow while overlooking the sun-baked shores over 13,000 feet below. Make your visit part of a tour and parkas will be provided, which are necessary as the temperature around the peak’s observatories is usually at freezing or below.
