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Wonderful Woods of Hawaii

March 24, 2023/0 Comments/in Hawaii, Things to do, Vacation Rentals/by Alice Hughes

The Big Island of Hawaii is known for its stunning natural beauty, from its dramatic volcanic landscapes to its pristine beaches and lush rainforests. One of the island’s lesser-known but equally enchanting natural wonders is its unique and diverse forests, which are home to a remarkable variety of plant and animal life. In this blog post, we will explore the wonderful woods of Hawaii, with a particular focus on the Big Island.

The forests of the Big Island are a product of Hawaii’s unique geology and climate, which have created a rich and varied ecosystem over millions of years. The island’s terrain is dominated by two massive shield volcanoes, Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea, which rise over 13,000 feet above sea level. These volcanoes have created a range of microclimates on the island, from humid rainforests to dry shrublands and everything in between.

Woods on the hill Hawaii

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

One of the most famous forests on the Big Island is the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which covers over 330,000 acres of land and is home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. The park’s lush rainforests are characterized by towering tree ferns, towering ohia trees, and a wide variety of other native plants and animals. We wrote about the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park in our previous blog posts, so we only repeat some of it here. However, we want to remind you that National Par Fee-Free Day is coming up on 04/22/23, so it is an excellent opportunity to visit the park for free.

Forest in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Pu’u Wa’awa’a Forest Reserve

Another unique forest on the Big Island is the Pu’u Wa’awa’a Forest Reserve, which covers over 33,000 acres of land on the island’s western slopes near the Kona area. The reserve is home to a number of rare and endangered species, including the Hawaiian hawk, the Hawaiian hoary bat, and the endangered Hawaiian goose. The forest is also home to several miles of hiking trails, which allow visitors to explore the reserve’s diverse ecosystem up close. You can find more information about directions and exploring the reserve here.

Tropical forest Hawaii
In addition to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Pu’u Wa’awa’a Forest Reserve, the Big Island is also home to several other beautiful forests, including the Kaloko Cloud Forest and Honua’ula Forest Reserve, two must-visit destinations for anyone who loves nature and the outdoors.

Kaloko Cloud Forest

The Kaloko Cloud Forest is located on the slopes of Hualalai, the third-largest volcano on the Big Island. This forest is unique because it is a cloud forest shrouded in mist and clouds most of the year. The cloud forest is home to a variety of native bird species, including the Hawaiian honeycreeper, and is also home to several rare and endangered plant species. Visitors to the Kaloko Cloud Forest can hike through the forest and explore the unique ecosystem, unlike any other forest in Hawaii.

To get to the Kaloko Cloud Forest, visitors can take Mamalahoa Highway to Kaloko Drive and follow the signs to the Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park. From there, it is a short hike to the forest entrance. Visitors should be prepared for wet and misty conditions and bring appropriate clothing and footwear.

Hawaiian highland forest and fog

Honua’ula Forest Reserve

The Honua’ula Forest Reserve is another beautiful forest on the Big Island that is well worth a visit. This forest is located on the slopes of Mauna Loa, the largest volcano on the island, and covers over 19,000 acres of land. The forest is home to various native plant and animal species, including the endangered Hawaiian hawk, and is an important watershed for the island’s water supply.

Visitors to the Honua’ula Forest Reserve can explore the forest on hiking trails, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the nearby coastline. The forest is also home to several natural hot springs, a popular destination for those looking to relax and unwind in the beautiful natural surroundings.

To get to the Honua’ula Forest Reserve, visitors can take Saddle Road from Hilo or Kona to the Mauna Loa Observatory Road. From there, they can follow the signs to the forest and the hiking trails.

Hawaiian woods

Eucalyptus Forests

On the island’s east side, several forests of non-native eucalyptus trees are a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. These forests were planted in the early 20th century for lumber and have since become a unique feature of the island’s landscape. The eucalyptus forests are home to a variety of native and non-native bird species, and the hiking trails that wind through the forests offer stunning views of the coastline and the surrounding mountains.

The eucalyptus forests on the Big Island are also known for their medicinal properties. Eucalyptus oil is a popular natural remedy for various ailments, and many people believe the air in the forests has healing properties. Visitors to the woods can enjoy the fresh, clean air and the soothing scent of the eucalyptus trees, which are said to have a calming effect on the mind and body.

Road in a tropical forest Hawaii

One of the fascinating aspects of the forests on the Big Island is their cultural significance to the Native Hawaiian people. For centuries, these forests have been the source of food, medicine, and other resources for the island’s indigenous population. Today, many of the plants and animals that are found in these forests are considered sacred by the Native Hawaiian people and are an important part of their cultural heritage.

The forests of the Big Island are also a popular destination for eco-tourists, who come to experience the natural beauty and unique ecosystem of this island paradise. Whether you’re interested in hiking, bird-watching, or simply soaking up the tranquility of the forest, there is something for everyone in the woods of Hawaii.

If you’re planning a trip to the Big Island, be sure to include a visit to one of the island’s many beautiful forests in your itinerary. Whether exploring the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park or hiking through the Pu’u Wa’awa’a Forest Reserve, you’ll be treated to an unforgettable experience of Hawaii’s natural wonders.

 

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/2023/03/hawaiian_woods_0004_Layer-2.jpg 630 1200 Alice Hughes https://kohalacoastpropertiesinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/kohala-coast-retail-properties-big-island-trans2-sm.png Alice Hughes2023-03-24 16:00:462023-03-24 16:00:46Wonderful Woods of Hawaii

Big Island Events You Don’t Want to Miss

March 10, 2023/0 Comments/in Hawaii, Things to do, Vacation Rentals/by Alice Hughes

Hawaii is all about the ocean and beautiful beaches; however, if you want to learn more about Hawaiian culture and have a different kind of fun experiences, consider participating in one of the events this year.

March 11, 2023 – Kona Brewers Festival

This year, Kona Brewers Festival celebrates its 28th anniversary. It was first started in 1996 to commemorate the creation of Kona Brewing Company, and over the years has become one of Hawaii’s premier events.

The Ke Kai Ala Foundation hosts the festival, and its mission is to support Hawaii’s environment, culture, and youth. The festival draws thousands of people together to enjoy incredible craft beer, island-style cuisine, great music, and the company of good friends.

This year, the event will showcase 17 of Hawaii’s finest brewers and select mainland breweries. In addition, each guest receives a commemorative glass mug, (10) 4 oz drink tokens, and unlimited food tastings. The ticket cost is $100, and only a few are left. For more information and to purchase tickets, click here.

Each year the Kona Brewers Festival happens in Kailua-Kona, HI, on the Big Island and is hosted on the lawn area between King Kamehameha Courtyard Marriott and the beach behind the resort. The address is 75-5660 Palani Rd, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740.

Hawaiian steel guitar

March 23-25, 2023 – Kona Steel Guitar Festival

For music fans, the first annual Kona Steel Guitar Festival can be a great event to visit. It will be held at the Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa (formerly Sheraton), located in Keauhou, about a half-hour south of the Kona airport.

The festival brings together legendary steel guitarists to celebrate the Hawaiian Steel Guitar and provides opportunities for Kona area steel guitarists to join steel guitarists from other parts of Hawai’i and the US to share their talents.

The festival will offer a Hawaiian pageant featuring the Hawaiian Steel Guitar, singing and hula, Steel Guitar Workshop, Open Stage Sessions, Jam Sessions, Hands-on Steel Guitar Experience, and Vintage Steel Guitar Exhibit.

The event is free and open to the public. For more info, visit their website.

Hula dancers

April 09-15, 2023 – Merrie Monarch Festival 2023

Merrie Monarch Festival is one of the Big Island’s most significant international events, and this year, it celebrates its 60th anniversary. The festival perpetuates Hawaiian traditions, native language, and arts.

This week-long event features an internationally acclaimed hula competition, an invitational Hawaiian arts fair, hula shows, and a grand parade through Hilo town. If you want to immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture, there is no better chance than this one.

You can learn about the ancient Hawaiian art of hula, the language of the heart, and enjoy the performances, arts, and fares provided by local vendors.

For more information, visit their website.

Puʻukoholā Heiau

April 22, 2023 – National Park Fee-Free Day

Nature enthusiasts love visiting the Big Island because of its breathtaking beauty, environmental diversity, and abundance of things to see and explore. However, only some know that the Big Island is home to five national parks, each offering a unique experience.

You may not be able to visit all five in one day, but you can choose the one that interests you the most and take advantage of the Nationa Park Fee-Free Day on April 22.

In future posts, we will cover these parks in detail, but here is the list for now.

Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park

Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site

Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau (City of Refuge) National Historical Park

Cacao pods

April 28-29, 2023 – Big Island Chocolate Festival 2023

Hawaii is the only state in the country where cacao is grown. Naturally, there are a few cacao farms on the Big Island producing our own delicious chocolate!

The Big Island Chocolate Festival is presented by the Kona Cacao Association and features several excellent chefs and their chocolate creations competing for the People’s Choice Awards.

The events will include an Original Hawaiian Chocolate Factory Plantation and Farm Tour, Cacao Farm Seminars and College Culinary Competition, Culinary Demo Seminars, Fundraising Gala and Silent Auction, and, of course, delicious food tastings of savory and sweet chocolate dishes.

For more info and to buy tickets, visit the festival’s website.

June 09-11, 2023 – Hawaii Kuauli Pacific & Asia Cultural Festival

This festival is a celebration of Hawai’i Island and its beauty as a cultural melting pot. This 3-day event will be packed with fashion, food, cultural expressions, a hula hō’ike, a fire knife competition, a culinary event, and so much more!

The festival takes place at the King Kamehameha Kona Beach Resort at the heart of Kona. Ticket prices vary depending on the event, and you can find more information here.

 

We will keep you posted on the upcoming exciting events, and if you participate in any of them, please let us know about your experience!

 

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/2023/03/BI-events_0002_Layer-1.jpg 630 1200 Alice Hughes https://kohalacoastpropertiesinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/kohala-coast-retail-properties-big-island-trans2-sm.png Alice Hughes2023-03-10 19:36:092023-03-10 19:36:09Big Island Events You Don’t Want to Miss

How to Plan Your Hawaiian Vacation

February 24, 2023/0 Comments/in Hawaii, Things to do, Vacation Rentals/by Alice Hughes

A trip to Hawaii is a dream vacation for many, and if you have already been here, you would want to return. The tropical paradise, with its breathtaking nature and unique culture, is on many people’s vacation lists. However, how you plan your vacation to Hawaii can significantly alter its outcome.

In this blog post, we share several tips on making the most of your trip by planning ahead and turning your Hawaiian vacation from good to great.

Hapuna Beach

Choose the best time to go

There is never a wrong time to visit Hawaii. The climate is perfect year-round, and the great beaches and beautiful blue ocean are always here. However, there are some nuances in timing worth noting.

Like any popular tourist destination, Hawaii has busy and shoulder seasons. The busiest time is winter, from December through April, when many people escape the cold weather on the mainland. Another busy season is summertime, when the kids are out of school, and families take their vacation time.

Seasoned travelers usually pick the shoulder seasons, May through mid-June or September through mid-October, when there are fewer crowds and airfare and accommodations costs are lower. In addition, you have to consider holidays and significant events when choosing your timing, when tons of visitors come to the islands, and the travel costs are at their highest. You may have trouble finding decent accommodations or renting a car during these times. Here are some examples:

Christmas and New Year
Valentine’s Day
Golden Week
Golden Week (from the end of April to the beginning of May) is when people in Japan have four-holiday breaks without work. Hawaii is the favorite vacation destination for the Japanese, and it may get crowded this week.
Ironman
The Ironman international Triathlon Championship is held on the Big Island every mid-October, bringing athletes and their supporters from all over the world.

Weather-wise, the winters are cooler, with more rain, which can be more suitable for people with low heat tolerance. Winter also brings bigger swells, so if you are into surfing, that is a better time to come. The ocean is warm and mellow during summertime, perfect for snorkeling and frolicking on the beach.

Think about what you want to get out of your vacation and what you want to do, and pick the best time to visit based on that.

Spencer Beach

Decide on which islands to visit

All Hawaiian islands are great to visit but deliver a different experience. For example, Oahu offers more busy time with shopping and nightlife; Maui has excellent beaches, though it is pretty overcrowded; Kuai has beautiful nature and is very quaint. But, of course, the Big Island has the best combination – great beaches, wide open spaces, and plenty of things to see, explore, and do, some of which you can only find on the Big Island, like visiting the Mauna Kea summit or seeing active volcanoes. It also has the most historical places to see, should that interest you.

You may also choose to visit several islands in one trip. In that case, plan your interisland travel ahead of time and check out airlines like Mokulele and Southwest for airfares.

Waiulaula A102 Kitchen Vacation Rental

Pick the best accommodations

Hawaii is a paradise, but not all locations on the island are created equal. Especially if you are visiting for the first time, we strongly recommend researching the area where you will stay. If you choose to visit the Big Island (as we hope you will), keep in mind that the island is Big and has 11 of the 13 climate zones, so if you see a cheap vacation rental somewhere on Craigslist in the hills above Kona, you may end up having rain every day, which is not what most people come to Hawaii for.

The best microclimate on the island is on Kohala Coast, which is why people call it the Gold Coast. With mostly sunny weather and very little rain, it is also home to the island’s best white sand beaches and luxury resorts. You can stay near the ocean, like in Waikoloa Beach or Mauna Lani resorts, where it is a little warmer. If you prefer a slightly cooler climate, book a place on a higher elevation, like Wai’ula’ula in Mauna Kea Resort.

Since hotel prices have skyrocketed in the last few years, the best accommodation is a vacation rental condo or private house. Not only will it cost less, but you will also get more space, a full kitchen to cook your own meals, and everything you need to have a great vacation. It is like having your own vacation home in Hawaii with the flexibility to pick and choose the location for every specific trip.

There are plenty of options close to the beach, on the golf course, or right next to dining and entertainment. Click here to see some of them.

Rent a car

Many of our guests ask us if they should rent a car when coming to the island, and the answer is always a resounding Yes! Even if you are staying in a resort where everything is seemingly a walking distance from your condo, you may find out that, in reality, it is not so close to walk to the beach or the nearest grocery store. The island is big (hence the name Big Island), and everything is very spread out. If you are staying in one of the Kohala Coast Resorts like Waikoloa Beach Resort, Mauna Lani, Hapuna, or Mauna Kea, you will be away from major population centers, which may be a good thing for vacationers on the one hand, but not so good if you need to do some shopping outside the resorts or run some other errands.

If you plan to explore the island and experience its breathtaking natural beauty, having a car is a must. Also, the resorts, although relatively close, are not connected to each other (except for some hiking trails), so you cannot just stroll to an adjacent resort if you want to have dinner in one of the restaurants there.

Secondly, you should book your car well ahead of time. We occasionally have car rental shortages, so it pays to plan in advance. Besides usual rental companies, you can check car rental sites like Turo, which offer a lot of great options.

And lastly, make sure that the vehicle you rent will meet your needs. For example, if you are coming with your family and would like to stop by Costco on the way from the airport, make sure your car will fit your passengers, luggage, and groceries comfortably.

Surfing in Hawaii

Plan your activities ahead of time, but don’t overthink it

If you have specific activities in mind, book them ahead of time because they may sell out and not be available once you get on the island. However, don’t over plan it. You want your vacation to be pleasant, relaxing, and fun, and not have to take a vacation from your vacation when you come back.

Choose a couple of activities you want to do for sure, book them, and let the rest flow. And if you don’t do everything you wanted – more reasons to return to the island!

Mauna Kea summit sunset

Bring the right clothing

As mentioned earlier, the island has 11 climate zones, so you will want to have suitable clothing depending on where you stay and what you want to do. Besides usual tropical wear, you may pack a light jacket, a sweater, or a rain jacket. Also, bring hiking shoes and clothes if planning to go hiking, and definitely some warm clothes for going to Mauna Kea summit because it is freezing up there!

Whatever style you choose, remember the Hang Loose! motto famous in Hawaii. You want to be comfortable and relaxed, enjoy yourself, and not worry about your outfits too much.

We hope these tips will help you plan your next vacation to Hawaii, and if you have any questions, let us know. We live here and will be happy to help!

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/2022/01/hawaiian_vacation_0007_Layer-96.jpg 630 1200 Alice Hughes https://kohalacoastpropertiesinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/kohala-coast-retail-properties-big-island-trans2-sm.png Alice Hughes2023-02-24 10:34:592023-02-24 10:34:59How to Plan Your Hawaiian Vacation

Best places for Valentine’s Day Dinner on the Big Island

February 10, 2023/0 Comments/in Hawaii, Things to do, Vacation Rentals/by Alice Hughes

One of the definitions of aloha is love — which makes the Aloha State, i.e., Hawaii, a perfect place to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Of course, there are many special ways to celebrate this holiday on the island, but if you want an unforgettable romantic dinner, here are some ideas.

Napua Restaurant
Napua

Napua is the best-kept secret of Mauna Lani. Once a private club available only for homeowners within the Mauna Lani Resort, Napua is now open to the public for lunch daily, 11 a.m.11 a.m. – 4 p.m.4 p.m., and dinner 5 – 8:30 p.m.8:30 p.m. Situated right on the shore at the exclusive Mauna Lani Beach Club, the restaurant offers open-air oceanfront fine dining and Hawaii-inspired cuisine. Every item on the menu is sourced from local farmers, ranchers, and fishermen, keeping the Island spirit. The setting couldn’t be better for a romantic dinner: white tablecloths, magnificent sunsets, top-of-the-line service, and live music performances by local talents.

Relax and take in the breathtaking landscape of Makaiwa Bay, overcome with the delicious and exotic flavors of locally-sourced food and the pleasant hum of live Hawaiian music in the background – a perfect Valentine’s Day dinner in Hawaii!

Brown's Beach House Restaurant

Brown’s Beach House Restaurant

If it is possible to be romanced by a property or courted by a restaurant, Brown’s Beach House is the place! The Big Island’s top AAA Four Diamond restaurant is located in Fairmont Orchid Hotel at Mauna Lani resort and is well-known for its incomparable Hawaii Regional Cuisine and spectacular oceanfront setting. The view is unbelievable, and the menu is fantastic! Sustainably grown and locally sourced foods are exquisitely prepared to please the palate, and an air of romance is enhanced with the lull of the surf rolling into the sand, only steps away, and the sounds of live Hawaiian music. Reservations are highly recommended.

Manta restaurant

Manta Restaurant

Manta is an open-air bay-view restaurant located at Mauna Kea Resort. You can enjoy the postcard views of Kauna’oa Bay from every table while savoring Manta’s superbly prepared cuisine. As the sun sets on the Island of Hawaii, the ambiance changes, turning into a majestic tropical sunset.
The restaurant features live entertainment throughout the year and an award-winning wine list. The superb menu showcases the best local, sustainable fish and produce, masterfully prepared by a Michelin award-winning Chef de Cuisine Bryan Nagao. Dinner is served Tuesdays – Sundays, 5:30 pm – 9:00 pm, and reservations are highly recommended.

Private Dining at Mauna Kea Resort

Private Romantic Dinner at Mauna Kea Resort

Private dining is the ultimate in dining experiences to mark any occasion, especially Valentine’s Day. You can make your Valentine’s Day dinner truly memorable by ordering a private romantic dinner at Mauna Kea Resort. Dine beneath the twinkle of stars above the shoreline of Kauna’oa Bay and enjoy personalized private dining service, all with personal touches and expert attention to detail to create lasting memories for a lifetime.

Your dining experience can be enhanced with photography, Hawaiian entertainment (Hula Dancer and Solo Musician), stargazing with an Astronomer and Telescope, lounge furniture, florals, seasonal specialty lei, and additional decorative flowers.

Lava Lava Beach Club Restaurant

Lava Lava Beach Club

If you prefer a less formal setting but still want to enjoy a great tropical ambiance and a beautiful sunset, try Lava Lava Beach Club. Located in Waikoloa Beach Resort, the restaurant features several hundred seats in an open-air setting with many seats directly outside on the beach where you can literally put your feet in the sand. Drawing upon swaying coconut trees, stunning sunsets, and tropical trade winds, the restaurant offers “relaxed island cuisine” and a varied menu with options for light dining on fresh fish tacos and burgers and the Chef’s creative preparations of steak, Hawaiian seafood, and more upscale options. For the Valentines’ Day dinner menu, click here.

Lava Lava Beach Club is a first come, first seated operation, and they do not accept reservations. If there is a wait, leave your cell phone number with the host, take a stroll along the beach, and enjoy all the beauty of Anaeho’omalu Bay. They will text you when your table is ready. The hours of operation are 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm daily, with live music from 5 pm until 8:30 pm each night.

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/2023/02/big_island_restaurant_0001_Layer-21.jpg 630 1200 Alice Hughes https://kohalacoastpropertiesinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/kohala-coast-retail-properties-big-island-trans2-sm.png Alice Hughes2023-02-10 16:16:062023-02-10 16:16:06Best places for Valentine’s Day Dinner on the Big Island

Visiting the Big Island of Hawaii in Winter

January 12, 2023/0 Comments/in Hawaii, Things to do, Vacation Rentals/by Alice Hughes

Knowing when to visit the Big Island of Hawaii is essential when planning your Big Island trip or vacation. There is really no wrong time to visit the Big Island – its incredibly wide diversity and geography suit almost any type of traveler. However, winter brings opportunities to see and do things that you may not be able to do during other seasons.

As winter hits the islands, it is the end of the heat and humidity. You don’t have to endure much of the late summer heat, usually between June-August. Instead, you will find pleasant trade winds, and it is the perfect temperature to enjoy an afternoon walk. You will find yourself wearing shorts and tank tops and still spending days at the beach.

 

Typically, temperatures during the winter months highs range from 70-80 degrees. The typical lows range from 64-69 degrees. These temperatures are typical of the South Kohala area (Waikoloa Beach Resort, Waikoloa Village, Mauna Lani Resort, and Mauna Kea Resort Areas) on the west side of the Big Island, which is considered the “semi-dessert” ecosystem.

December through February sees the coldest and wettest weather on the Big Island, but it’s still a pleasant time to visit. The winter weather makes for better surfing and waterfall chasing. It also brings the best chance of sighting whales, whale sharks, and hammerhead sharks. Here’s what to do on the Big Island in winter.

 

Whale watching

Winter is a season for whale watching. Hawaii is a favorite wintering spot for humpback whales, which means you can look out to sea on any winter day and spot these majestic creatures. Hawaii is the only state in the U.S. where humpback whales mate, calve and nurse their young, and has one of the largest seasonal populations of North Pacific humpbacks in the world. The whale season lasts from November to May, with the peak of the season between January and March. Join a whale-watching tour and search for migrating humpback whales in the shallow waters. Click here for whale watching best places and tips.

 

Star gazing

Take advantage of the clearer skies over Kona and go stargazing on Mauna Kea. The Big Island of Hawaii is one of the prime spots on earth for stargazing. You will be amazed at how close and clear the stars appear. The best place to do it is the Mauna Kea Summit which is the reason it is home to many world-class telescopes and observatories. Start by watching a beautiful sunset from the top of the mountain, then come down to the Visitor Center level for stargazing. Provided the sky is clear, this will be one of the most striking scenes you will ever see in your life. The sky appears white from the countless numbers of stars, and you can even see a swoop of the Milky Way, which is quite stunning. You can drive there by yourself or book a tour (recommended). For information, click here.

 

Waterfalls and ziplining

Waterfalls are at their fullest in winter, and it is a great time to see them or go ziplining over roaring rivers, waterfalls, or lush jungles. We recommend booking a Zipline Adventure tour with Hawaii Zipline Tours, the #1 zipline tour in Hawaii as voted by Hawaii Magazine’s Best of the Best Awards. You can ride seven amazing ziplines with awe-inspiring landscape and ocean views on a working agricultural farm on the historic Hamakua Coast on the island’s east side. Soar high above and over our private 250ft Kolekole waterfall! Kolekole Falls is just downstream from the Famous Akaka Falls. Learn about Hawaii Islands’ flora, fauna, and culture on this thrilling Big Island zipline adventure. For more info on booking a tour, visit the company’s website.

Surfing in Hawaii

Surfing

Wintertime brings with it high surf. You can take advantage of the higher swells and go surfing. You can also take a surfing lesson if you are not an experienced surfer. Learn how to surf from some of the best surfing teachers. This is a great way to have fun and try something new. Learn more about booking a surfing lesson here.

 

Hiking

Winter is also the best time for hiking, as it is not that hot, and the sun is not as intense as in summertime. The Big Island is an outdoor paradise for hikers. The low population density, miles and miles of hiking trails, waterfalls, and many different climate zones make hiking one of our favorite pastimes on the island. 11 out of 13 climate zones worldwide are represented on the Big Island, which means that you can see a totally different view around every corner. Click here for the five best hikes on the Big Island.

 

Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival

Many tourists are surprised that the Big Island celebrates cherry blossom season in early February. The Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival takes place early in the month as the stunning beauty of cherry trees over 60+ years old bloom at Church Row Park.

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/2022/08/A-Bay_beach.jpg 630 1200 Alice Hughes https://kohalacoastpropertiesinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/kohala-coast-retail-properties-big-island-trans2-sm.png Alice Hughes2023-01-12 20:11:372023-02-16 16:27:23Visiting the Big Island of Hawaii in Winter
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