The "white" world depicted by Mauna Kea in the northern part of Hawaii Island
Mauna Kea
Located in the northern part of the Big Island, Mauna Kea boasts an elevation of approximately 4,205m. As its name, which means "white mountain" in Hawaiian, suggests, the summit is covered in pure white snow from November to April, and it is a sacred place where the snow goddess Poliahu has long been said to live. It is known for its dignified beauty, even among the Hawaiian islands, which have a strong tropical image. Due to its high altitude and clear air, the summit area is dotted with observatories from around the world, and activity tours such as stargazing and sunrise experiences are held throughout the year. The pure white snow scenery covering the top of a mountain higher than Mt. Fuji is breathtakingly beautiful, so why not enjoy the stars and the sunrise that paints the landscape crimson red? In winter, tours may be canceled due to heavy snowfall, so please check in advance. Of course, it gets very cold near the summit, so it is essential to take thorough measures against the cold!
A mysterious tourist spot! "Black" Punaluu Black Sand Beach
Punaluu Black Sand Beach
After enjoying the pure white snow covering Mauna Kea, why not take a look at the jet black beaches that stretch along the coastline? Punaluu Black Sand Beach, located near Naalehu, a small town in the southeast of the Big Island, is a mysterious place where the coastline is covered with pitch black sand, just as its name suggests. The black sand is actually lava that has fallen from the Big Island's constant volcanic activity and been crushed into sand grains. Punaluu Black Sand Beach is famous as a beach where sea turtles visit, so be sure to check out their adorable appearance. By the way, the Big Island not only has black sand beaches, but also green sand beaches, which are rare around the world, so if you're interested, be sure to check them out.
If you're visiting Hawaii Island, you must see Kilauea Volcano! The "red" of the earth
Kilauea Volcano
On a trip to see the beautiful colors of the Big Island, the color you can't miss is the "red" of the volcano, which gives you a sense of the energy of the earth. Kilauea Volcano, located about 48 km southwest of Hilo and with an elevation of about 1,247 m, is known as one of the most active volcanoes in the world. As its name, which means "to erupt" or "to scatter in large quantities" in Hawaiian, suggests, it is known for frequent lava outflows, and it is surprising that eruptions have been occurring without interruption since January 3, 1983. Kilauea Volcano has many attractions, including the Kilauea Visitor Center, where you can get the latest information on eruptions, the Crater Rim Drive, a circular road that goes around the Kilauea caldera, the huge Halemaumau Crater, where Pele, the goddess of fire, is said to live, and the Pu'u O'o Crater, where lava flows out. There are also lava walks and helicopter tours to view the crater. You can enjoy the powerful and primordial beauty of volcanic activity from various angles. In addition, at the Kalapana Lava Viewing Area on the eastern side of the Big Island, you can see the lava flow from the Puu O'o crater into the ocean. Of course, the status of volcanic activity changes daily, so please research the latest information when you visit the area.
A beautiful and spacious "green" area in Waimea
Waimea
Heading east from the volcanic Kohala Coast in the north of the Big Island, you will find beautiful green pastures. This is Waimea, an area where "paniolos (Hawaiian cowboys)" live. Even in the Big Island, where the diverse nature of the sea and mountains is attractive, this is a place where you can encounter majestic and expansive "green" scenery. You can also try horseback riding tours. Also, if you want to enjoy the scenery around Waimea, we recommend renting a car and going for a drive. Kohala Mountain Road (Highway 250), which starts on the north side of Waimea and leads to Polulu Valley Lookout, is known as one of the most scenic driving routes on the Big Island. Watch the horses and cows grazing leisurely on the green pastures that go up and down, and enjoy the panoramic view from the coastline... Enjoy this beautiful journey.
Enjoy the brilliant blue waters of the Kona Coast on the Big Island of Hawaii
Kona Coast
The Big Island is surrounded by beautiful ocean, but if you want to enjoy the beautiful "blue" that is unique to Hawaii, head to the Kona Coast, which stretches along the west coast of Shimano. This area, which is blocked by the wind by Mount Mauna Loa, which stands at about 4,169 meters above sea level, is famous for its relatively calm ocean. There are many marine activities available, such as snorkeling, diving, and sailing, and it is known for being able to encounter dolphins, sea turtles, and manta rays. In addition, in winter, you can participate in whale watching to see humpback whales, so why not give it a try? In addition, the Kona Coast, which continues south of Kona International Airport, is dotted with the beautiful town of Kailua-Kona, where King Kamehameha spent his later years, and national historical parks lined with ancient heiau (temples), so you will never get bored during your stay at the resort. The charm of the Kona Coast is that you can enjoy the sparkling blue ocean, history, and town activities.
A tourist spot where you can encounter a rainbow of seven colors! Wailuku State Park
Wailuku River State Park
Travel around the Big Island and encounter beautiful colors. The perfect place to end your trip is Wailuku River State Park, located in the eastern part of the island. This park is easily accessible from downtown Hilo, a cute town lined with historical buildings, and is home to the 24m Waianuenue Falls, also known as Rainbow Falls, where rainbows are often seen. The water volume of the falls increases during the rainy season, which usually runs from November to April, so the chances of seeing a beautiful rainbow increase. It is recommended to visit the area early in the morning. The mysterious rainbow colors created by the water flowing down the green valley. The beauty of this waterfall is sure to be a great memory of your trip to the Big Island.
Comment
The Big Island experiences winter and rainy season from November to April each year, but the average daytime temperature is around 25℃ to 26℃. It rarely rains all day, and you can swim in the ocean during the day, so you can enjoy a relaxing resort vacation. However, if you go to high places such as Mauna Kea, don't forget to be fully prepared!
*Some content was updated on July 26, 2019.
To the Big Island, the largest island in the Hawaiian Islands
The contents published are accurate at the time of publication and are subject to change.
