Big Island Adventures

 
 

World famous beaches

While you have the top 2 most beautiful beaches in the world right in your backyard at Kumulani (Mauna Kea, Hapuna)... the list of gorgeous sandy beaches on the Big Island doesn't end there.  We also recommend these beaches as well, all on the West Side of the island.  

  • Wailea Beach in Puako (aka "beach 69") -  small local spot with calm waters
  • Mauna Lani Beach Club - for snorkeling

  • Kekaha Kai State Park:  This State park includes several beaches: Mahaiʻula Beach, Makalawena Beach and Kua Bay.  Highly recommend the hike to Makalawena - it's extremely private and beautiful! Just remember the sunscreen and water. 

  • Anaeho'omalu Beach at the Marriott Resort.  The beach itself is not amazing but the ancient Hawaiian fish ponds are interesting and the sunset views across the pond, lined with palm trees is excellent. 

  • Click Here for a map of Big Island Beaches

 

Day Trips + Adventures

Whether you are interested in ancient Hawaiian historical sites, nature hikes, or adventure sports... the Big Island has it all and more. 

  • Fun ATV guided rides in Kohala: ATV Outfitters tours

  • Kahua ranch or Waipio horse back riding: http://www.naalapastables.com/kahua.html

  • Zip line tours: http://www.thebigislandzipline.com

  • Lapakahi State Historical Site

  • Drive to Akaka falls - short hike through rain forest to a waterfall

  • Visit the Hilton Waikoloa (great for kids) - A really cool resort with 64 acres of gardens, pools, exotic birds, trams, waterways with boats, and a large Asian art collection.  There is also a dolphin swim program here so you can see the dolphins up close in their lagoon.

  • Drive to the Hamakua Coast - visit Honokaa town, Waipio valley lookout, Tex Drive Inn (famous for their Malasada donuts)

  • Spend a whole day going to Volcanos National Park - walk the craters, explore a lava tube - about 2-3 hour drive there from the resort area, so it does take a full day to visit. 

  • Head up to Kamuela (Waimea) - See the Parker Ranch Visitor center, Anna's Ranch, Waimea Coffee Co, Hawaiian Style Cafe, the Samuel Parker house/museum, drive out to Mana Road for a cool view of the ranchland

MORE DAY TRIPS INFO HERE

 

Island cuisine

If you want to cook at home in the condo there are a few options for groceries:

  • Foodland at Mauna Lani Shops (this is the closest, about 10 mins away)
  • Foodland in Kamuela (larger, much more selection, great fresh fish)
  • Costco in Kailua Kona (for wine, beer, staples for a long stay)

If you prefer to dine out, here are some of our all time favorite restaurants from many years living in Hawaii (and now visiting often):

 
lava lava.jpg