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Road Trip: Going to Volcano

May 13, 2022/0 Comments/in Hawaii, Things to do, Vacation Rentals/by Alice Hughes

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a must on any Big Island itinerary and makes for a great day trip. The volcanoes in Hawaii are a rare treat to explore as the landscape is ever-changing and is home to seven of the world’s thirteen climates. You will pass through a lush rain forest known for precipitation to a desert filled with lava rocks, see the active crater and hopefully some glowing lava, stand next to steam vents, and drive along the crater roads while exploring this fantastic park.

The road trip to the Volcano is an adventure in itself, and we will cover everything you need to know about it in this blog post.

Road to Hawaii Volcanoes National Parks

Which route to choose and how to prepare

You can take several routes to get to the Volcano National Park: through the north part of the island (through Waimea), through the middle via the new Saddle road, and through the south. We recommend taking the north route if you plan on staying in one of the Kohala Coasts resorts, and here is why.

Going through the north is probably the most scenic way to get to the Volcano. You will be driving along the historic Hamakua Coast on the eastern side of the island with expansive ocean views, lush vegetation, and several exciting stops on the way. The north route is also not as long as the south one, so you will not be completely exhausted when you get back.

Plan to spend all day on the trip and leave in the morning. Pack some warmer clothes as the park is located at a higher elevation, and the weather can be unpredictable there. Colder temperatures and occasional rain are pretty typical.

Waimea Coffee Shop

Recommended stops

You can stop in Waimea for a cup of coffee and some breakfast at the Waimea Coffee Shop, then drive along Hwy 19 towards Hamakua. Once you get to the other side of the island, you will see the small town of Honokaa – a quiet, charming place with a few good restaurants and shops on its main street.

Akaka Falls

‘Akaka Falls State Park

Following down the Hamakua coast, enjoy breathtaking ocean views on the left and eucalyptus forests on your right side. About 11 miles north of Hilo is a famous Akaka Falls State Park, home to the cascading Kahuna Falls and the free-falling ‘Akaka Falls, which plunges 442 feet into a stream-eroded gorge. The paved route, which includes multiple steps in places (not wheelchair accessible), makes an easy-to-follow loop offering stunning viewpoints of the two waterfalls. The park is open daily from 8 am till 5 pm, and for more info about their entrance and parking fees, visit their website.

Onomea Bay

Pepe’ekeo (Onomea) Scenic Drive

As you get closer to Hilo (about 7-8 miles from the city), don’t miss this hidden gem on your way. The turn is rather inconspicuous and is marked as a “scenic drive.” The Pepe’ekeo (also known as the Onomea bay) scenic drive is the most famous scenic route on the Big Island. It is a 4 mile stretch of the old Mamalahoa highway that snakes from scenic spot to scenic spot through wild, lush tropical forest and gives some stunning views of Onomea Bay.

Half the drive, the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Gardens are a must-see if you like tropical plants and flowers and are one of our favorite short hikes on the Big Island. They are often described as a “walk in paradise” and “stunningly beautiful” and host many trails and over 2000 species of plants.

Downtown Hilo

Downtown Hilo

You can stop for lunch or some refreshments in downtown Hilo, the largest population center on the Big Island. Reminiscent of old Hawaii, the town never fully recovered from the 1960 tsunami, but it still bears its old Hawaiian charm. Our favorite place for lunch is Cafe Pesto, located on the main street. This award-winning restaurant serves world-class pizzas, specialty seafood dishes, amazing salads, classic comfort foods, and delectable desserts. The restaurant offers plenty of seating, and you can almost always get a table for lunch without a reservation.

Cafe Pesto Hilo Bay sign

Hilo’s city market, steps away from the restaurant, offers an excellent selection of local produce and goods for half the price you would pay in the resorts and is worth checking out.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

After leaving Hilo, head to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Since the 2018 eruption of the Kilauea volcano, parts of the park have been closed. Either consult the National Park Service website to confirm what is open, or you can visit the Kilauea Visitor Center. There you can get the newest information about what you can access. The Jaggar Museum and Thurston Lava Tubes are fun parts of the park to explore.

Crater Rim Drive

Crater Rim Drive

After the visitor center, head to the steam vents and steaming bluff. The steam is the result of hot rocks boiling rainwater below the surface. The Caldera Rim Path is an easy trail that is about ¼ mile. It is wheelchair and stroller accessible. There are great views of Kilauea here as well.

The steam vents through the Devastation Trail are part of the Crater Rim Drive. It is an 11-mile stretch of road that circles the Kilauea Caldera. Unfortunately, some of the attractions along the route are closed due to the recent volcanic activity, but it is still worth driving along as far as you can.

Next, head to the Ka’akulamanu (Sulphur Banks) Trail. It is an easy walk that is about 1.2 miles round trip. The trail starts across the street from the Steam Vents. Here volcanic gases ooze out of the ground producing a smell of rotten eggs. The gas then crystallizes into colorful mineral deposits.

After that, head to the Kilauea Iki Overlook. This crater was the site of a lava lake that erupted in 1959 in Volcanoes National Park.

Holei Sea Arch

Chain of Craters Road

The Chain of Craters Road will take you about 90 minutes, depending on how long and how often you stop. Craters and other volcanic highlights are found in the first four miles. It is a fun area to drive through and get out of the car when something catches your eye. Mauna Ulu stop is especially enjoyable. There are lava flows from as recent as 1979.

The Chain of Craters Road ends at the Holei Sea Arch. The arch is about 90 feet tall and was cut into the cliff of an ancient lava flow from approximately 500 years ago.

Punalu'u Black Sand Beach

Punalu’u Black Sands Beach

After exploring Volcanoes National Park, visit the nearby Punalu’u Black Sands Beach if you have some time left. It is the most famous black sand beach in Hawaii. Small pieces of lava make up the sand. There are strong currents here, so be careful if you plan on swimming. You also have a good chance of seeing the endangered Hawksbill and green turtles sunbathing on the beach.

New Saddle Road

Coming Back

The best and shortest way to come back to the west side is by taking the new Saddle Road, aka Highway 200 or Daniel K. Inouye Highway. However, you would have to go back to Hilo, as the road starts there. Built a few years ago, the highway goes through the saddle between Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa volcanoes (hence the name) and is one of the best roads on the island. Once you cross the path, you may see the sunset from a higher elevation, which is quite stunning. If you have to drive back after dark, be mindful of the driving conditions. Sometimes you can encounter thick fog or rain going through the mountains, and there are not many street lights along the way, so using caution is always recommended.

If you don’t get to see everything you want, no worries! Save it for your next visit to the island. The most important thing is to enjoy your trip, have fun, and learn something new while doing so.

Save on your Hawaii vacation rental

Remember, you can always save 10% on your vacation rental when you book direct with us and mention “Aloha escape” in your reservation.

We hope to see you soon – a hui hou!

 

https://kohalacoastpropertiesinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/road_to_volcano_feat.jpg 456 1200 Alice Hughes https://kohalacoastpropertiesinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/kohala-coast-retail-properties-big-island-trans2-sm.png Alice Hughes2022-05-13 10:17:102022-05-13 10:17:10Road Trip: Going to Volcano

The Best Places for Mother’s Day Brunch on the Big Island

April 29, 2022/0 Comments/in Hawaii, Things to do, Vacation Rentals/by Alice Hughes

Mother’s Day is right around the corner, and if you are planning to be on the island with the mothers in your life, you are probably wondering how to celebrate it. Of course, a traditional Mother’s Day brunch is always a good option, and what can be a better place to do it than in Hawaii! The Big Island offers many brunch events where you can enjoy fresh local foods in a beautiful tropical setting and a relaxed atmosphere.

Kohala Coast luxury hotels and resorts usually host the best culinary events on the island, including Mother’s Day brunches. However, you may find that these events are not advertised and often are not even mentioned on restaurants’ websites. That is because they are always in high demand and typically sell out pretty quickly. Therefore, we highly recommend making reservations well in advance by calling a restaurant or resort and provide their info in this blog post.

Orchid Court Restaurant

Orchid Court at Fairmont Orchid Hotel

Fairmont Orchid is a luxury resort and spa located in the beautiful Mauna Lani Resort. It is surrounded by 32 oceanfront acres of lush tropical gardens, cascading waterfalls, and a tranquil white sand beach and lagoon, and it is worth exploring on its own if you haven’t been there yet.

Waffle with fresh fruits

Fairmont will be offering a buffet-style Mother’s Day Brunch at the Orchid Court Restaurant from 11 am till 2 pm. You can sip mimosas and savor a wide selection of island-inspired fare, including local fruit and fresh seafood. Though they have not shared their special menu for Mother’s Day with us, Fairmont’s cuisine never disappoints. The cost is $95 per adult and $45 per child, and reservations are required. Call 866-540-4474 to learn more and to reserve your spot.

Halani Restaurant

Halani at Mauna Lani Resort

Another hidden jewel within Mauna Lani Resort is Halani Restaurant and Bar. This year’s Mother’s Day, they offer a culinary showcase buffet featuring hosted champagne stations, locally-sourced raw bars, grill, seafood, omelets, fresh-baked desserts, and custom flower arrangements made for soulful celebrations dedicated to Mom.

Halani dishes

The brunch is scheduled from 11 am till 2:30 pm. Reservations are required, and the cost is $150 per adult and $75 per child. Learn more about the restaurant on their website or call 808-885-6622 to make a reservation.

Meridia restaurant

Meridia at Westin Hapuna Beach Resort

Meridia Restaurant is located at the Westin Hapuna Beach Resort. They offer a Mediterranean-inspired menu dedicated to the islands. Usually featuring a charcuterie and crudo bar, brilliant cocktails, and an award-winning global wine list framed by the forever views of Hapuna Beach, Meridia presents innovative cuisine in an unrivaled setting. Hawaii Magazine named them 2019’s Best New Big Island Restaurant and The American Culinary Federation – 2018 Restaurant of the Year.

Meridia dishes

This year Meridia hosts their special Mother’s Day Brunch from 10 am till 2 pm. It will be a buffet-style event with an expansive menu including crab legs, prime rib, desserts, and many more delicious fares. The costs are $95 per adult and $45 per child (5-12 years old). Meridia’s special brunches are usually in high demand, so we highly recommend making your reservations as soon as possible. Call 808-880-1111 to reserve your spot.

If you didn’t get a reservation, do not despair. There are still great restaurants within the resorts’ area where you can treat your Mom to a beautiful lunch and have a great time. Here is a couple of them to try.

Tommy Bahama Restaurant

Tommy Bahama Restaurant and Bar

Located at The Shops at Mauna Lani, Tommy Bahama Restaurant and Bar offers plenty of indoor and outdoor seating and a locally-inspired menu. Even though they do not do brunches, the restaurant is open for lunch starting at noon. Indulge in the aloha-inspired flavors of Chef Stennis’ fresh local produce and mahi-mahi. A must-try is their World-Famous Coconut Shrimp and Pina Colada Cake, which are quite amazing. Reservations are recommended, but walk-ins are welcome. Learn more about their menus on their website.

Lava Lava Beach Club Restaurant

Lava Lava Beach Club

Lava Lava Beach Club is a beach-front restaurant situated at the Anae’hoomalu Beach at the Waikoloa Beach Resort. You couldn’t ask for a better setting for a casual lunch in Hawaii. You can have lunch on the beach with the sand between your toes, relax and enjoy breathtaking ocean views. The restaurant offers a Hawaiian-inspired menu featuring locally-sourced fresh fish, meats, produce, and excellent tropical cocktails. They do not take reservations, and seating is on a first-come, first-serve basis. Lunch starts at 1 pm. You can find more information on their website.

We hope you will have a wonderful Mother’s Day in Hawaii, and we wish all of you, mothers out there, a Happy Mother’s Day!

Save on your Hawaii vacation rental

Remember, you can always save 10% on your vacation rental when you book direct with us and mention “Aloha escape” in your reservation.

We hope to see you soon – a hui hou!

 

https://kohalacoastpropertiesinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/tropical_fruit_plate_feat.jpg 456 1200 Alice Hughes https://kohalacoastpropertiesinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/kohala-coast-retail-properties-big-island-trans2-sm.png Alice Hughes2022-04-29 13:50:042022-04-29 13:50:04The Best Places for Mother’s Day Brunch on the Big Island

Celebration of Hula and Hawaiian Culture

April 14, 2022/0 Comments/in Hawaii, Things to do, Vacation Rentals/by Alice Hughes

Hula is probably the most quintessential form of Hawaiian art. You may have seen it performed alongside the Samoan fire dance, Tahitian otea, and Maori haka, particularly in luau shows in Hawaii. But hula should not be confused with those traditions from other lands. Hula is distinctively Hawaiian, and it is much more than a dance. So what is hula?

Hula Kahiko

What is hula?

On its surface, hula is the storytelling dance of the Hawaiian Islands. As with all of the Hawaiian culture, much deeper, more powerful, empowering truths may be revealed when you are fortunate enough to learn more about it. Hula is a part of a cultural practice of sharing a wealth of stories that connect dancers and audiences to the foundation of Hawaiian ancestral knowledge. Since ancient Hawaiians didn’t have a written language, hula became a way to animate history, genealogy, prophecy, and the tales of those who came before and pass them on to the next generations.

Hula Kahiko

Two styles of hula are hula kahiko (ancient hula) and hula auana (modern hula). Hula kahiko is traditionally performed as part of or extension of a ceremony, set to an oli (chant) and accompanied by percussion instruments. Hula auana is a less formal hula performed without ceremony. Instead, a story is told with the accompaniment of song and stringed instruments such as guitar, bass, steel guitar, and ukulele.

Men performing hula kahiko

Interestingly, in ancient Hawaii, hula was performed by men, as women were prohibited from participating in entertainment activities. Even though most hula practitioners are women in modern times, men still practice it as well and take an active part in chanting and ceremonies.

Kaumakaiwa Kanakaole

The true meaning of hula

If you go deeper, hula is also a spiritual practice meant to connect the practitioner to the land, nature, and ancestral knowledge, which is essential to native Hawaiians. The true meaning of hula is best described below by a well-known Kumu hula (hula teacher), Kaumakaiwa Kanakaole:

“What is hula? That is a very broad question. Hula is the physical modality by which we consciously engage, participate and grasp what is ancestral memory. For our land. Our foundation. That is hula.

When the hula is performed, the desired outcome is transcendence. To be able to leave the vessel and transform the space around you. It feels like teetering on the cusp of conscious and subconscious. We call that the dream state. Hula facilitates the physical aspect of that moment of transcendence. We are an expression of our environment. My indigenous identity and my land base are one of the same. And it is the continuity of self and the resonance of our land base that my hula and my chanting affirm.”

You may not encounter the real hula kahiko performed for the public, but be respectful if you come across this type of ceremony. Maintain a respectful distance, be silent and refrain from taking pictures and videos. More often than not, these ceremonies are considered sacred and reserved for selected practitioners.

Kids learning hula

Learning Hula

Hula is not an easy art to learn. It is a journey of a lifetime. The best hula dancers usually start from an early age of 5-6 and continue their practice well into old age. Hula dancers train for years with much physical intensity under a Kumu hula (hula teacher) guidance before performing in public. Every move has meaning and must be performed just right with grace, coordination, and expression to tell a story.

Hula performance at the Merrie Monarch Festival

Merrie Monarch Festival

If you happen to be on the Big Island between April 17 and 23, you have a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the art of hula during a week-long Merrie Monarch Festival.

The festival is dedicated to the legacy of King David Kalakaua, who inspired the perpetuation of Hawaiian traditions, native language, and arts. He famously said that “Hula is the Language of the Heart. Therefore the Heartbeat of the Hawaiian people.” The week-long festival features an internationally acclaimed hula competition, an invitational Hawaiian arts fair, hula shows, and a grand parade through Hilo town.

The festival is considered the most prestigious of all hula contests, with many national and international hālau hula – schools – attending. The celebration of Hawaiian culture builds from arts and crafts fairs, festivities, exhibitions, and parades to a peak of hula competitions of three nights. This year’s Merrie Monarch Festival event starts April 17 to 23, 2022. You can find the schedule of the event here.

Along with the festival, Hilo Hawaiian Hotel invites everyone to join the celebration at the hotel from April 20-23. You can shop at the craft fair featuring local artisans, enjoy live music and hula performances, and refuel at food stations with a Hawaiian or local-style meal. The craft fair is scheduled from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day in the hotel’s Mokuola Ballroom.

Come with an open heart and open mind and enjoy the festivities and the language of the heart that is hula.

Save on your Hawaii vacation rental

Remember, you can always save 10% on your vacation rental when you book direct with us and mention “Aloha escape” in your reservation.

We hope to see you soon – a hui hou!

 

https://kohalacoastpropertiesinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/hula_feat.jpg 456 1200 Alice Hughes https://kohalacoastpropertiesinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/kohala-coast-retail-properties-big-island-trans2-sm.png Alice Hughes2022-04-14 18:38:372022-04-14 18:38:37Celebration of Hula and Hawaiian Culture

The Best Classes to Take on the Big Island

April 1, 2022/0 Comments/in Hawaii, Things to do, Vacation Rentals/by Alice Hughes

Vacations are not only an essential part of self-care. They are a gift of time that you can use to do something you normally wouldn’t or have no time to do. Besides the usual tourist activities like beaches and sightseeing, the Big Island offers many classes and lessons that can make your vacation more enjoyable. We feature some of them in this blog.

The Yoga Barre Studio

Yoga and Fitness Classes

The Big Island boasts a large concentration of yoga studios and some of the best yoga teachers you can find in the country. If you are in the mood to do some good for yourself and your loved ones, visit Yoga Barre Hawaii and try one of their classes.

The studio is conveniently located at the heart of Waikoloa Beach Resort, in the Queen’s Shopping Center. They offer several yoga and fitness classes suitable for any age and fitness level. Most of them are held under the shade in the beautiful Queens Marketplace Coronation Pavilion, and you can enjoy our beautiful Hawaiian weather while taking a yoga class.

Handstand

A must-try is a Wednesday morning Pau Hana Yoga class taught by one of Hawaii’s best teachers Noah Giltner. Noah is a sought-after instructor born and raised on the Big Island of Hawaii. His teaching style helps his participants access and engage deep parts of themselves, allowing for a unique practice, even for regular practitioners. Practicing with Noah is an authentic experience that you will treasure.

His approachable and welcoming vinyasa class will encourage a reset of your body, mind, and spirit after a day of travel or sightseeing. This practice aligns your body, leaving you in a vibrant and peaceful state. Meet in Queen’s Marketplace Coronation Pavilion at 8:20 am. The class is held outdoors and socially distanced. Bring your mat and props.

In addition to yoga practice, Yoga Barre offers Barre, HIIT, pilates, and other fitness classes. Choose what works best for you and enjoy the vitality that movement brings into your body and soul.

Besides classes, the studio features a juice bar where you can get fresh cold-pressed juices and acai bowls and a small yoga apparel shop if you need a fresh outfit or a new yoga mat. Yoga Barre is open daily till 7 pm, and you can find more information about class schedules on their website.

Surfing in Hawaii

Surfing Lessons

Not many people know that the Big Island is the birthplace of surfing. It all started at Lyman’s Point, which was once a location of the royal residency and where the first surfers used to entertain the royals by riding the big waves on their wooden longboards. As part of ancient Polynesian culture, surfing was viewed as more than just recreation or sport, but instead as an art form.

So, it is no surprise that many famous professional surfers come from the Big Island, and some of the best surfing instructors live and work here.
If you like a fun physical challenge, you will love surfing, and you can have a blast learning to catch a wave during your Big Island vacation!

It’s best to schedule surf lessons at the beginning of your trip since water conditions don’t always cooperate with your scheduled time, leaving you time to reschedule your lesson. Ask the company about their policy regarding this before booking to make sure it works for you.

Take a lesson or two from one of these schools, and you’ll be riding the waves in no time!

MAUNA LANI SEA ADVENTURES
Guests staying at the Mauna Lani Resort can take surf lessons at the Mauna Lani Private Beach Club with Mauna Lani Sea Adventures. Lessons are first-come-first-serve and depend on the surf conditions for the day. Call them the morning you would like to go to check availability.

ALOHA SURF ADVENTURES
This school offers group, semi-private, and private surf lessons based in Kailua-Kona. They also offer tandem lessons for children ages eight and under.

FBI SURF SCHOOL
FBI (From Big Island) Surf School was founded in 2001. They are based in Kailua-Kona and offer group, semi-private and private lessons. Lessons come with all the gear you will need.

HAWAII LIFEGUARD SURF INSTRUCTORS HAWAIIAN SURF SCHOOL
Based out of Kailua-Kona, this surf school has been operating since 1998! They offer general admission, semi-private, private teens/adults, and private children’s surf lessons. Lessons start in the classroom, where you’ll learn all the basics before you get in the water, which means you’ll spend less time swimming and more time surfing when you get into the waves!

KONA TOWN SURF ADVENTURES
Based out of Kona, this surf school offers group, semi-private, and private lessons. They also offer surf and adventure tours, where you will search for the best surf on the Island.

Scuba diving in Kohala

Scuba Diving Lessons

There is no better way to explore the Big Island’s unique marine life than going underwater. The Kohala Coast has the least rainfall on Hawaii Island, which leads to spectacularly clear waters. As the oldest part of the Island, the reef has had time to develop into interesting ledges, arches, lava tubes, and tunnels teeming with sea life to explore. From the tiniest nudibranchs and invertebrates to giant mantas, dolphins, turtles, reef sharks, and even seasonal humpback whales, the selection of over 20 sites boasts all the best diving Hawaii has to offer.

With Kohala Divers, you can give scuba diving a try without the commitment of certifying. They have great experienced divers as instructors and over 30 years of experience on the Kohala Coast. In addition, the company is a recognized 5-star PADI facility. They offer several diving courses and instruction for people with different experience levels. If you are new to scuba, try it in the comfort of their 10-foot-deep pool environment. Take your first breaths underwater and experience your new passion.

Hula on the beach

Hawaiian Cultural Classes

A trip to Hawaii is not just a tropical getaway but a visit to special islands with a unique cultural history. Many visitors from around the world know of the hula, ukulele, and leis. But, do you know where they came from and why they are so famous today? You can learn more about local culture from Hawaiian Cultural Classes provided at the Hilton Waikoloa Village hotel, located at the Waikoloa Beach Resort.

Learn how to play ukulele, dance the hula, or make kukui nut bracelets and leis. Each class is about one hour, provides the basic knowledge of each skill, and is fun!

Sunset yoga

 

Save on your Hawaii vacation rental

Remember, you can always save 10% on your vacation rental when you book direct with us and mention “Aloha escape” in your reservation.

We hope to see you soon – a hui hou!

 

https://kohalacoastpropertiesinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/big_island_classes_feat.jpg 456 1200 Alice Hughes https://kohalacoastpropertiesinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/kohala-coast-retail-properties-big-island-trans2-sm.png Alice Hughes2022-04-01 10:58:432022-04-01 10:58:43The Best Classes to Take on the Big Island

Explore Kawaihae and Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site

March 18, 2022/0 Comments/in Hawaii, Things to do, Vacation Rentals/by Julia Winnicki

The Big Island offers a wealth of unique experiences and places to see not available anywhere else. Seeing the volcano, black sand beach, or the sunset from the Mauna Kea summit is on many visitors’ list of activities; however, they can take a lot of time, driving, and preparation, leaving you tired and exhausted at the end of the day. On the other hand, suppose you are not into all-day journeys and lots of driving but want to explore the island beyond the resorts. In that case, some interesting sites on the Kohala Coast will make for a fun, easy, and enjoyable trip any day of your Hawaiian vacation. Kawaihae is one such place outside the resort corridor and is worth visiting.

Kawaihae Harbor

Kawaihae Harbor

The historic harbor town of Kawaihae is a port community on the northwest side of the Island of Hawaiʻi, located just a few minutes’ drive from the Kohala Coast resorts. It includes a fuel depot, shipping terminal, and military landing site. Outside of the man-made break wall is a popular surf spot, the Pua Kailima o Kawaihae Cultural Surf Park.

Kawaihae features a few restaurants and art galleries. To the north of the harbor are the Kawaihae Canoe Club and boat ramp. You can grab a quiet lunch or a cocktail at Seafood Bar and Grill, which serves the freshest local seafood in a casual, comfortable, and fun atmosphere. They have the best tiki bar on the island, and their tropical cocktails are extraordinary.

While you are there, stop by the Hale I’a Da Fish House. The shop doesn’t look like much from the outside, but it is the best place to buy fresh seafood on the island. Located right across from the harbor, the store offers “caught that day” fresh fish, super friendly staff, great poke, and reasonable prices.

Puʻukoholā Heiau

Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site

You cannot miss this site when going down towards the Kawaihae Harbor. Sitting on the top of the hill and overlooking the bay, this ancient temple is one of the most important historical sites on the Islands of Hawaii and is definitely a must-see.

From the moment you arrive at Pu’ukohola Heiau National Historic Site, you quickly realize the significance of this unique place. The great temple of Kamehameha the Great, Pu’ukohola Heiau, rises majestically above the turquoise waters of the Pacific, a silent testament to the most renowned king of Hawai’i. This site is where the history-makers of Hawai’i lived and where their history comes to life. It is interesting to note that Kamehameha I and his warriors built this temple by passing water-worn rocks from Pololu Valley over 20 plus miles. Amazingly, the temple was completed in one year using only manual labor and a “human chain” to pass the rocks.

Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site

Start from the visitor center, then walk the paved trails towards the temple and the offering tower. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to go inside, as the temple is considered sacred and used for Hawaiian religious ceremonies to this day by Hawaiians only.

Down below at the Pelekane Bay are the submerged ruins of a Hale o Kapuni Heiau (temple) that was once dedicated to sharks. Throughout the year, black-tipped reef sharks come into the bay, and the best time to see them is usually in the early morning. During the winter months, humpback whales are a very common sight, and you can sometimes spot spinner dolphins frolicking in the ocean as well.

Spencer Beach Park

Spencer Beach Park

Next to the heiau is the Spencer Beach Park, a quiet white sand beach backed by tree-shaded lawns and picnic tables and equipped with showers, restrooms, and a parking lot. A long shallow reef directly offshore and the extensive harbor landfill to the north provide good protection from the prevailing winds and offshore waves. Swimming, snorkeling, and skin diving opportunities are excellent. Hazardous conditions ordinarily occur only during severe storms. The protected beach and the facilities provided at the park have made it a very popular site, especially for families with little children. It can get crowded on holidays and weekends; however, weekdays are relatively quiet with just a few people around. It is a great place to have a picnic, watch the sunset, or both.

Being so conveniently located from the resorts, Kawaihae offers a unique opportunity to experience the island’s history, nature, and flavors without exhausting driving and need for preparation. So please put it on your list next time you visit the Big Island.

Save on your Hawaii vacation rental

Remember, you can always save 10% on your vacation rental when you book direct with us and mention “Aloha escape” in your reservation.

We hope to see you soon – a hui hou!

 

https://kohalacoastpropertiesinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/kawaihae_feat.jpg 456 1200 Julia Winnicki https://kohalacoastpropertiesinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/kohala-coast-retail-properties-big-island-trans2-sm.png Julia Winnicki2022-03-18 10:08:522022-03-18 10:08:52Explore Kawaihae and Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site
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  • Road to Hawaii Volcano National ParkRoad Trip: Going to VolcanoMay 13, 2022 - 10:17 am
  • Tropical fruit saladThe Best Places for Mother’s Day Brunch on the Big IslandApril 29, 2022 - 1:50 pm
  • Hula performance at the Merrie Monarch FestivalCelebration of Hula and Hawaiian CultureApril 14, 2022 - 6:38 pm

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