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 Always a wild ride |
Kailua Pier (Palani Road) Hawaii, HI 96740 United States +1 808 329 2754 |
Leisurely cruises and sedate snorkel tours are fine, if you are in the mood to relax. If you want something a little more fast-paced though, hop on a Jet Ski for a few minutes of adrenaline-inducing fun. Anyone who has ridden a jet ski knows that it is fairly simple to operate. Aloha Jet Ski offers rentals by the half hour and hour; rates can be per rider or per couple. The rental office is centrally located at the Kailua Pier. Instruction and safety gear are provided. Rental rates start at $20 per person, per half-hour. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Kona Coast paddle experts |
75-5744 Ali'i Drive (Kona Inn Shopping Village) Hawaii, HI 96740 United States +1 877 322 1444 http://www.alohakayak.com |
This locally owned company leads tours all over the Kona Coast, venturing into sea caves, hidden coves and secluded beaches. The owner was born on the Big Island and has spent his entire life since that time exploring its many nooks and crannies, lava tubes and coral reefs. He and the other excursion guides know all the best places to snorkel and explore along the coastline. Guided tours and kayak rental are both available. Call for prices and reservation information. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Departing daily from Kona |
75-5669 Alii Drive Hawaii, HI 96740 United States +1 800 548 6262 http://www.atlantisadventures.... |
Get a fuss-free view of Hawaii's underwater world on this deep-sea tour. Get up close and personal with tropical fish, sea turtles and coral kingdoms while you dive to depths of as deep as 100 feet without getting wet. No gear or training is necessary, but be sure to call and book one of the daily tours. Tours depart from the Kona Pier at 10:30am, 11:30am and 1:30pm. Atlantis also facilitates snorkel, whale watching (December through April) and helicopter tours. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Pauline Bernbom |
 An award-winning experience |
P.O. Box 384473 Hawaii, HI 96732 United States +1 808 886 1768 http://www.bluehawaiian.com |
Nicknamed the The Cadillac of helicopter tour companies, (Frommer's Hawaii) this tour company aims to provide each guest with a perfect flight experience. Each year, it is awarded a Five Star Diamond Award by the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences, proof that it has met its goal. Each helicopter is spacious and comfortable, offering 180-degree views. Tours include: Kilauea Volcano, lava fields, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the Hamakua coast, the Kohala coast and Waimanu Valley. Call for tour prices and reservations. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mike Johnston  |
 Photo: Sonya Brockman |
 Photo: Sonya Brockman |
 Photo: Ryan Masuga |
 Photo: annalivia02 |
 Photo: Kevin Kanarski |
 Photo: Ross Dunn |
 Photo: Gina Benedetti |
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Party on the water |
73-4800 Kanalani Street Hawaii, HI 96740 United States +1 808 349 7888 http://www.top-10-hosting.com/ |
This full-scale booze-and-buffet adventure is for adults (21 and over) only. The festivities take place aboard a vessel large enough to be described as a barge. Tourists are shuttled from their hotels in the late afternoon and the boat leaves the Kailua Pier just before sunset. Guests are invited to eat and drink as much as possible, and live local entertainment is provided. Shuttle service is provided from the Mauna Kea, Waikoloa and Kailua areas. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Dolphin Discoveries |
Keauhou Bay Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 United States +1 808 322 8000 http://www.dolphindiscoveries.com |
Learn about Hawaii's history while falling a little bit in love with the state's favorite creatures. The husband-and-wife duo that runs these tours take very small groups (about five people) out to sea in a motor-powered raft. The journey travels the Kona coast, visiting Kealakekua Bay Marine Preserve for snorkeling. April is the last (and warmest) month of the humpback whale season. Pilot whales, sperm whales and gleeful dolphins can be spotted year-round. Call for more information. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Deep sea dabblers call here |
P. O. Box 37 Hawaii, HI 96745 United States +1 808 329 3013 http://www.fishkona.org/ |
This sturdy, comfortable craft is perfect for families and leisure groups. Captain Chip and his knowledgeable crew are happy to teach beginners or to swap fish stories with longtime fishermen. Marlin, mahi, tuna and spearfish have all been caught from this boat. While some of them have been enormous, this boat doesn't necessarily go after the monsters all the time. Rates are low, starting at $295 to charter the entire boat for a half day. There is a six-passenger maximum. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 State-of-the-art course |
68-1310 Mauna Lani Drive Hawaii, HI 96743 United States +1 808 885 6655 http://www.maunalani.com/ |
Located on the gorgeous Mauana Lani Resort, these courses are known for the level of difficulty, aesthetic value and cutting-edge amenities. Both of them have won the Gold Medal Award from Golf Magazine. The lush, perfect greens are situated in the center of harsh, black lava rock. The ocean that borders the South Course looks almost unnaturally blue. It seems the sun is always shining. Futuristic solar-powered golf carts carry passengers quietly to and fro. Facilities are extensive and include driving and putting ranges and multiple restaurants. Green fees start at $100. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Hapa Laka |
P. O. Box 2051 Kailua-Kona, HI 96745 United States +1 808 322 2229 www.hapalakafishing.com |
This is a good boat to charter if you're fishing for fun. While catching fish is important to the crew, they understand if people are more interested in snorkeling or sailing. They won't encourage a guest to go after a 500-pound marlin when a couple of 30 pound tuna will do just as well for dinner. The boat is new and comfortable, equipped with all kinds of fishing gear. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 A familiar place |
75-5815 Ali'i Drive Hawaii, HI 96740 United States +1 808 329 8866 http://www.hardrock.com/ |
It's as American as apple pie—maybe even more so in this generation. Not only that, but in sleepy Kailua-Kona, it's an integral part of a limited nightlife scene. Locals and tourists alike come here to enjoy burgers, brews, lively nights and some of the best sunsets in the world. Depending on your taste, you can either try to spot the legendary green flash (happens when the sun meets the horizon) or check out a piece of rock memorabilia. Live music and club nights are sometimes featured. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Julie Perry |
 Photo: crunkfist |
 Photo: Cory Gurman |
 Photo: Mark Brown, Seattle |
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 Photo: Paul A. Martinez |
 Photo: Janice O'Brien |
 Photo: Aaron Warren |
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Awe-inspiring natural scenery |
74-5035B Queen Ka'ahumanu Highway Hawaii, HI 96740 United States +1 808 331 8505 http://www.hawaii-forest.com |
A 500-foot waterfall, a rainforest, an active volcano; this is just the beginning of the Big Island's natural phenomena. For some expert advice and guidance, contact Hawaii Forest & Trail. This organization offers guided tours through some of the island's most amazing landscape. Hike through Cloud Forest, see the lava tube caves at Volcanoes Park, explore Kaupulehu Cave or view the breathtaking Kapoloa falls. Morning, afternoon and all-day trips are available. Average tour cost is USD145 for adults. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Taylor Sherman |
 Photo: Padraic Shafer |
 Photo: James Gideon |
 Photo: David Lepelstat |
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Hawaii Volcanoes National Park |
Highway 11 Volcano Hawaii, HI 96785 United States +1 808 985 6000 http://www.nps.gov/havo/ |
More than two million people visit the active Kilauea Volcano each year, enthralled by the sight of the forbidding black mountain and the fiery streams of molten lava that flow from it. The other active volcano, Mauna Loa, is the largest one on earth; the summit towers at more than 13,000 feet above sea level. There are many hiking trails in the park, which spans 217,000 acres. The Kilauea Visitor Center and Jaggar Museum offer the chance to learn more about the park's history and geology. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Fine ceramic art |
76-5921 Mamalahoa Highway Hawaii, HI 96725 United States +1 808 322 8484 http://www.lovein.com |
This gallery, owned by artist couple Mary and Matthew Lovein, is located along the main strip of Holualoa Village. Aside from the each of the owner's solo work, collaborative efforts are also spotlighted. Paintings, glasswork, sculpture and raku ceramics are all available. Ceramic art vessels, painted in a multitude of ways and often featuring female imagery, are a speciality. The gallery also has its own private label of Kona Coffee, which is estate-grown nearby. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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See Where It All Begins |
77-6261 Mamalahoa Highway Hawaii, HI 96725 United States +1 800 334 0348 (Toll Free) / +1 808 322 9937 http://www.konalea.com/ |
Visit a Kona roasting plant in the quaint upcountry town of Holualoa, located on the Kona coffee belt of the island. Take a tour of the coffee orchards and witness the roasting process firsthand. Tours are free, as are coffee tastings. Once you have been educated, relax in the retail shop with a cup of Kona's best. Beans are available wholesale. Take advantage of the prices here, because they go up significantly once the coffee becomes an export. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: David Landsel |
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Upcountry artist colony |
Highway 180 Hawaii, HI 96740 United States +1 808 322 8484 http://www.holualoahawaii.com/ |
The little settlement of Holualoa was founded as an agricultural center, but has evolved into what many consider to be the artistic center of the Big Island. Artists from around the world have gathered here, inspired by the beauty and the serenity of the island. You will find a multitude of galleries open daily on the main street. Take a moment in between viewings to relax over a cup of Kona coffee; after all, it did make the region famous. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A longtime favorite |
75-5828 Kahakai Road Hawaii, HI 96740 United States +1 808 329 1493 http://www.huggos.com/ |
With more than 30 years of tradition and a solid reputation among locals and mainlanders, this restaurant is said to offer the quintessential Hawaiian dining experience. It is set on stilts above the ocean; you can't get much closer than that. While the original Huggo featured a menu that was heavy on the steak-and-seafood angle, his son eschews these dishes in favor of more contemporary cuisine. Menu items include Cajun Seared Ahi and Wild Mushroom Pasta. Some combination of live entertainment, karaoke and dancing is featured nightly in the adjacent bar. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: rdelucchi |
 Photo: ndaygin |
 Photo: sheik_yerbouti22 |
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Marine preserve and historic site |
Pu'uhonoa Road and Mamalahoa Highway Hawaii, HI 96750 United States |
Snorkelers and divers flock to this bay, which is a designated marine preserve and home to hundreds of varieties of tropical fish, sea turtles and even some dolphins. Kayakers also enjoy the calm, warm waters. History buffs will be more interested in the monument to Captain James Cook, the first British sailor to venture to Hawai'i. Cook was at first revered by the Hawaiians, who believed him to be the god Lono, but eventually they killed him in a skirmish upon his return to the island. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sebastian Schulz |
 Photo: Lisa |
 Photo: Ger and Audrey van B |
 Photo: Stephen Thorley |
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 Photo: natural born hikers |
 Photo: Derek Wolfgram |
 Waikoloa shopping bliss |
250 Waikoloa Beach Drive (Waikoloa Beach Resort) Hawaii, HI 96738 United States +1 808 886 8811 |
Located in one of the most famous vacation resorts in the U.S., this spacious shopping center boasts a number of boutiques, specialty shops, casual dining establishments and upscale restaurants. Buy island fashions at Noa Noa or Malia Waikoloa, shop for fun souvenirs at The Gecko Store or Crazy Shirts or pick up something extra-special at Na Hoku or Maui Divers. Snack spots include Nachos and Wild Boar, while formal restaurants include Roy's and Big Island Steakhouse. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: khhawaii |
 Photo: Christina Groth-Bisw |
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Hawaii United States |
The name translates to "Gold Coast." At first, it's hard to understand why this place deserves its name; the terrain is harsh, barren and almost spooky. That is, until one reaches the resort districts. The first one is Ka'upulehu, home of the Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jay Hood |
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Great scenery and spacious trail |
P. O. Box 437185 Hawaii, HI 96743 United States +1 808 889 0022 |
The secluded green expanses and breathtaking coastline of Kahua Ranch are the site of these horseback excursions. The trail is wide enough to allow for "open range riding," where horses are allowed to get abreast of one another. It passes by cinder cones, grazing pastures and the ruins of ancient Hawaiian villages. There's plenty of sights to seeand plenty of places to gallop! Book space in advance and call to confirm. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Hawaii United States |
This spread-out district stretches from South Kona, the location of Honaunau Bay, to the vast Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Yvette Keohuloa |
 Photo: Elektra Noelani Fisher |
 Photo: Steve Jurvetson |
 Photo: Fumiaki Yoshimatsu |
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 Photo: Fumiaki Yoshimatsu |
 Photo: Josse Ford |
 Photo: Steve Jurvetson |
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Beer lovers welcome |
75-5629 Kuakini Highway Hawaii, HI 96740 United States +1 808 334 2739 http://www.konabrewingco.com/ |
More than just a restaurant or nightspot, this place is an attraction in its own right. Guests can take a tour through the brewery and end in the tasting room, where a selection of the brewery's eight varieties of beer and ale are available to sample. The free tours run from 10:30a - 3p Monday through Friday. The restaurant/bar portion is a large, friendly place where hefty, gregarious locals serve pizzas, salads, sandwiches and of course, frosty mugs of beer. For an educational and delicious experience, be sure to check out Kona Brewing Company and you'll be sure to leave satisfied. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: James Rubio |
 Photo: Paul & Shelly Pamrow |
 Photo: Serenity Forbes |
 Photo: G Morrow |
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Kona Coffee Living History Farm |
82-6199 Mamalahoa Highway P.O. Box 398 Captain Cook, HI 96704 United States +1 808 323 2006 wwwkonahistorical.org |
It isn't often that one has an opportunity to see the way people lived and worked in past generations. This 'Living History' farm allows just that opportunity. It is a representation of the Kona coffee industry in the years between 1925 and 1945. Observe the procedures of an Old Hawaii coffee plantation, from the orchards and fields to the roasting plant. Artifacts and authentic landscapes add to the effect. There is a gift shop onsite. The admission prices are very high. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Upscale mall in a former hotel |
75-5744 Ali'i Drive Hawaii, HI 96740 United States +1 808 329 6573 |
The former Kona Inn has been transformed into a stylish, classy shopping center. More than 50 shops and eateries are housed in all the buildings of the former hotel. The mall occupies a prime strip of oceanfront property across the street from the Kona Marketplace. Stores include Island Life, Toejam, Kona Inn Jewelry and Overboard Swimwear. The Kona Coffee Cafe is a great place to get a cup o' joe, island-style. Church services are held by the sea every Sunday. Credit card acceptance policies vary by merchant. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Hopping hangout spot |
75-5819 Ali'i Drive Hawaii, HI 96740 United States +1 808 331 2633 |
By day it's a sunny oceanfront dining spot, by night a boisterous bar. This is a local favorite, thanks to its wide selection of beers, mixed drinks and generous portions. While sandwiches and burgers are served, the emphasis food-wise is on munchies (or "pupus" as the locals say). Some seafood entrees are also available-think breaded shrimp and fries. This restaurant is upstairs from Durty Jake's, a popular breakfast place. The crowd tends to be a mix of locals and tourists. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Rex Bautista |
 Photo: Kendra Loveless |
 Photo: Alworth |
 Photo: Linda J Haberlach |
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Peaceful and beautifully secluded |
72-3890 Hawaii Belt Road Hawaii, HI 96740 United States +1 808 325 6625 |
Take in the fresh upcountry air, the scents of flowers and trees, and the sights of hidden Hawai'i at this peaceful upcountry course. It is nestled amidst the foothills of Hulalei Mountain, elevated about 2,000 feet above the Kona Coast. The level of play is somewhat difficult. The natural phenomena have been incorporated into the design, and golfers will often find themselves playing around lava tubes, cinder cones and hills. Facilities include a restaurant, pro shop, driving range and putting green. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Only Gay Bar on the Island |
75-5660 Kopiko St (Kopiko Plaza) Hawaii, HI 96740 United States +1 808 329 8558 http://www.themaskbar.com |
This "alternative lifestyle" bar in Kona is a popular hangout-although if you don't know what to expect, it might be a little surprising. Whether the customers are gay or straight (and most of them are gay), they tend to be wild, crazy and out to have fun. The service is kindly and sarcastic-a combination often found at such hangout places. Burgers, fries, beers and mixed drinks are served. A dance club atmosphere prevails at night. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Among the world's best |
62-100 Mauna Kea Beach Drive Hawaii, HI 96743 United States +1 808 882 5400 |
Critics, whether they be from Hawaii, the mainland or another country, simply can't say enough good things. At nearly par 74, it is, according to advanced golfers, one of the most "playable" courses. And the setting, on isolated Mauna Kea at the foot of the volcano and the edge of the island, is peerless. This is another Robert Trent Jones masterpiece. Among other accolades, the course has earned a four and a half-star ranking from Golf Digest and a four-diamond award from the local panel. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tracey Birch |
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Journey to the stars |
P. O. Box 9027 Hawaii, HI 96745 United States +1 808 322 2366 / +1 888 322 2366 http://maunakea.com/ |
The Big Island of Hawaii is known to have some of the world's best stargazing. These sunset and stargazing tours begin with sunset at the summit of Mauna Kea (at 13,800 feet). Enjoy one of the island's most breathtaking views while your guide educates the group on Hawaii's natural history. Once the sun goes down, you will get in-depth information about the Hawaiian night sky. View the cosmos through a telescope; you will leave with a lot of new and fascinating knowledge. Warm clothing and a light meal are provided. Cost is USD175 per person. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tim Ahlers |
 Photo: Walt K |
 Photo: David L Bigelow |
 Photo: therealpinkfloyd |
 Photo: Tiana Rasmussen |
 Photo: Vadim Kurland |
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Mauna Loa Helicopters |
73-310 U'u Street Kailua Kona, HI 96740 United States +1 808 334 0234 www.maunaloahelicopters.com |
If you've ever wanted a truly "up-close-and-personal" flying experience, this is your opportunity. Mauna Loa Helicopters offers a one-on-one tour that allows you to see all of the beauty of the Big Island. Map out your own course, based on what you want to see. There is no set route, as interests vary by passenger. Your guide is a knowledgeable, personable island local, with all the background information to make your trip a memorable one. Call in advance to reserve a time. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Come to where the nuts are |
One Macadamia Road Hawaii, HI 96720 United States +1 800 832 9993 http://www.maunaloa.com |
You've seen the blue cans and boxes in the drug store; now visit the source. At the Mauna Loa farm and factory, visitors can tour the grounds, sample the products and stop by the Visitor Center. Not only is there a gift shop onsite, but the prices are wholesale. Buy the macadamia nuts plain, salted, in brittle or covered in milk chocolate. Gift baskets and other specialty items are also for sale. Admission to the factory is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Laura Borchert |
 Photo: Ken Mizell |
 Photo: Cal-i-for-ni-a Mike |
 Photo: Faith Donna Yeo |
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Local brews |
275 East Kawili Street Hawaii, HI 96720 United States +1 808 934 8211 http://www.mehana.com |
Mehana Brewing Company is Hilo's only microbrewery. It produces five different ales and lagers, all inspired by tropical breezes and balmy beach days. Tours and tastings are available daily. Visit the gift shop to browse through a selection of souvenirs. While there is no real bar area on the premises, you can certainly buy a six-pack to take back to the hotel. Mehana distributes its product throughout the island and the state as well as California, Arizona and Florida. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Hawaiian-style air tours |
P.O. Box 830 Hawaii, HI 96725 United States +1 808 326 7070 |
Volcanoes and valleys, waterfalls and lava flows, see the natural phenomena that comprise the Big Island of Hawaii. Mokulele Flight Service is family owned and offers an authentic island tour experience. Tours are small and plenty of personal attention is given to each guest. Air tours encircle the island, honing in on areas of interest. Aircraft are high-winged, providing the most unobstructed view possible. Window seating is guaranteed, and a two-way radio system allows for pilot/passenger communication. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Play in the water |
Highway 11 74-425 Kealakehe Parkway Hawaii, HI 96750 United States +1 808 324 7873 |
So you are in Hawaii, but you have never really tried an ocean sport. That is no reason to stay out of the water! The experts here are perfect to see you well on your way, whether your interest is in scuba, surfing or paddling. Get personalized attention in learning the water sport of your choice, while you enjoy the pristine, sheltered, tropical surroundings of Kealakekua Bay. Tour guides are all knowledgeable Big Island locals. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Spacious and modern theater |
Prince Kuhio Shopping Plaza Hawaii, HI 96720 United States |
With nearly a dozen screens showing first-run movies, this theater dispels the notion that the tropics are "behind" the mainland. The films vary from comedies to dramas to children's cartoons, but they all have one thing in common: a Hollywood big budget. This is not an art house or a quaint island movie theater. The theaters have stadium seating, special equipment for the hearing impaired and easy wheelchair access. Ticket prices are exactly comparable with those of Mainland theaters. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Island-style entertainment by the sea |
75-5852 Ali'i Drive (Royal Kona Resort) Hawaii, HI 96740 United States +1 808 329 3111 |
Here's a good way to introduce a little culture into your spring break while still having a good time. Enjoy a delectable Polynesian buffet, live music and hula dancing. Each event begins with a shell lei greeting. The buffet offers such local favorites as kalua pork, poi and pineapple upside-down cake. The Polynesian revue spotlights musicians and dancers, as well as specialty performers. A gorgeous oceanfront location makes this luau especially appealing. Admission: USD55 Adult; USD23 Children 6-12. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Brooke G |
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Safe dive tours |
77-349 Emalia Place Hawaii, HI 96740 United States |
Do you love the idea of scuba diving, but feel slightly intimidated by all the gear and training involved? If so, SNUBA is your perfect alternative. SNUBA is a system that allows for safe, shallow reef diving, without requiring a heavy tank as an air source. Instead, the air source is contained within a hose attached to an elongated snorkel. Both morning and afternoon tours are available by reservation. Each tour includes all gear and plenty of personalized instruction. Ages eight to 88 are welcome. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The island by sky |
P.O. Box 1941 Hawaii, HI 96766 United States +1 808 246 0136 http://www.safarihelicopters.com |
It is nearly impossible to take in all that Hawaii has to offer, if you are traveling by car. Safari Helicopter Tours offers a comfortable way to view the volcano from above, see Parker Ranch, the Kona Coast and the waterfalls of Waipio Valley; all may be viewed within the space of a few hours. It is the best way to see the major sights in a relatively short period of time. The air-conditioned helicopters offer forward-facing seats and 180-degree views. A video and sound system narrates the tour as you go and is also available for purchase. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Stefan Smolnik |
 Photo: Stefan Smolnik |
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Snorkeling adventures |
PO Box 1732 Hawaii, HI 96740 United States +1 808 938 0405 http://www.torpedotours.com |
There is a whole world to be found just underneath the surface of Hawaiian waters. You don't need to go far, in fact, you can stay on the surface. Just adventure out past the shoreline. Torpedo Tours offers eco-tours around the Kona Coast, including snorkel and scuba tours. The outstanding feature of these tours is that they actually use torpedos: you will have your own to power you along. These are perfectly safe and can be easily controlled by the diver. Both certified and non-certified divers are welcome on scuba tours; those interested in obtaining certification may complete the required coursework through Torpedo. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Award-winning art in Holualoa |
76-5931 Mamalahoa Highway Hawaii, HI 96725 United States +1 808 322 7733 http://www.ululani.com/ |
When you're passing through (or staying in) the village of Holualoa, stop by Ululani Gallery for a peek at some of the best in local art. The gallery is located along the main street, and it features the work of four well-known Big Island artists: Sachi Nifash, Joseph Boris Ster, Herb Kane and Chee Cha. A variety of two-and three-dimensional media are featured, including oil, watercolor, jewelry, raku pottery and metal wall sculpture. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Hawaii United States |
Inland from Waikoloa is the town of Waimea. It's small and out-of-the-way, but it has an abundance of personality. Businesses here are usually family-owned, and many of them feature island-made products. The land surrounding Waimea is either part of the Parker Ranch (the largest ranch in the state), or part of the Waipio Valley, which can only be toured on horseback or by covered wagon. Parker Ranch runs many attractions, though it is in the middle of construction and renovations currently. Hamakua Coast, the northeastern coastline of Hawaii, is often classified among the most scenic drives in the world. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: tom burke |
 Photo: tom burke |
 Photo: Heidi Whipple |
 Photo: Kristen Poynton |
 Photo: Dane Kantner |
 Photo: box of perfs |
 Photo: Simply Shot Maui |
 Photo: Eric Franke |
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An oasis between volcanoes |
68-1792 Melia Street Hawaii, HI 96738 United States +1 808 883 9621 |
Situated on a plateau 1,000 feet above sea level, this course is yet another of the Kohala Coast gems. It was designed by the famous Robert Trent Jones, Jr. in 1972 and has been perfectly maintained ever since. The par-72 course is a favorite of locals and tourists in the know. It provides a challenging game and a superb aesthetic experience for comparatively low rates. Greens fees: $80 (including cart). Facilities include a pro shop, driving range and clubhouse restaurant. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ziggy Lightworker |
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Funky old-fashioned country center |
On Highway 19 Hawaii, HI 96743 United States |
An antidote to Kailua-Kona's hectic scene or the Kohala Coast's outrageous prices can be found in this fun upcountry shopping center. A variety of locally owned shops provide hours of browsing entertainment. Check out Big Island Surf or newcomer It is All Good. Restaurants include Yong's Kal Bi Korean and Kona Healthways II. The center is housed in an old-fashioned complex, the front of which resembles a turn-of-the century general store. Credit card acceptance varies by business. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Jungle & valley adventure |
Old Government Highway 240 meet at Waipi'o Valley Artworks Hawaii, HI 96727 United States +808 775 1007 |
Anyone who's looking for a marathon horseback ride should call this place. While a normal two and a half-hour tour is available, people who really want to explore can sign up for the five-hour Hidden Waterfall Ride. Both tours travel along Waipio Valley to Hi'ilawe Falls, passing through cane fields and farmlands along the way. The five-hour journey follows the path of a stream back through the jungle, eventually arriving in a hidden rainforest paradise. Reserve in advance. Review © 2007, Wcities |