Mentioned by Fodor's Choice
Sights in Big Island
"When Hurricance Iniki slammed into Hawaii in 1992, this park lost all of its sand, which is slowly returning decades later. The shoreline…"
"When Hurricance Iniki slammed into Hawaii in 1992, this park lost all of its sand, which is slowly returning decades later. The shoreline…"
"This awesome park is an ancient place of refuge – or puʻuhonua, a sanctuary where kapu (taboo)-breakers could have their lives spared. A half-mile walking tour encompasses major sites – the visitor center provides a brochure map with cultural information. You enter the park in the village-like royal grounds, where Kona aliʻi (chiefs) and their warriors lived; the spiritual atmosphere is greatly enhanced by gently breaking waves and wind-rustled palms. Throughout the grounds are wooden kiʻi (deity images) standing up to 15ft high."
"After breakfast continue south to the Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park (also known as the city of refuge or Honaunau Bay) to learn about the ancient practices and rituals of the native Hawaiians and finish up with some snorkeling at one of the best snorkeling on the island, Two Step (at 300 ft. from the park entrance). This is a favorite snorkeling spot for many locals. This is a very culturally significant place for the Hawaiian people so remember to be respectful of both the animals and the surroundings."
"If coffee isn’t your thing, cruise down the hill to Puʻuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park. Immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture on this beautiful 180-acre park, which was once a refuge for ancient Hawaiian taboo breakers."
"You’ll find this lesser-known park in between Kona City and the Kona Airport on the western side of the Big Island. It’s just across the street from the Costco and Home Depot. The park has a variety of walking trails that are perfect for a little pre-sunset stroll, and they allow you to scout the park for the most enviable sunset pics angles."
"Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park is just north of Kailua-Kona near the Honokohau Boat Harbor. Along a section of the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail, highlights of the park include Ai'opio Fishtrap, Honokohau Beach and the impressive Kaloko fishpond."
"At 13,796ft in the air, you are above 40% of the atmosphere and 90% of its water vapor – apparently perfect conditions for growing the giant mushroom-like observatories that have popped up around the summit. Glistening in the sun against the desolate terrain like a human colony on an alien planet, this is the greatest collection of telescopes on earth. You can practically feel the knowledge being sucked out of the sky."
"Manini’owali Beach – better known as Kua Bay – is part of Kekaha Kai State Park, a dreamy section of the Kona Coast that hides four spectacular beaches amid a vast and barren lava field. Kua Bay is the only beach within the park that is accessible via a paved road, which means that parking can be challenging on weekends and holidays."
"This cute little botanical garden admittedly doesn’t require much walking, but it’s a great serene spot to explore in Kona, stretch your legs, or bring your lunch. Each terrace of the garden showcases different plants, including native Hawaiian, Austalia, New Zealand, Indonesia, and Central America. There’s no admission fee, though donations are accepted, and you can stop and shop at the adjacent thrift store that supports the garden."
"The stores in Kona Commons shopping Center deal mainly in clothing, office supplies, and eateries. Here, even if your budget does not allow luxury shopping, the dishes in the onsite restaurants are a must-try. The mall features many restaurants that specialize in foods inspired by different cuisines from all around the world."
"#konacoastshoppingcenter #kcsc #kona #kailuakona #ootd #fashion #stylish. Kona Coast Shopping Center is situated a short drive from Kona Airport. The shopping mall has become a favorite choice for many shoppers in Hawaii because, besides its convenient location, Kona Coast Shopping Center has everything you may require in a department outlet, specialty store, or restaurant."
"Cuisine: Vegan-friendly, Organic, Pan-Asian, Juice bar, Non-veg. Serves meat, veg options available. Natural foods cafe featuring an extensive Pan Asian cuisine menu and drinks menu, and makes its own raw vegan gelato."
"Located right in the heart of downtown Kailua-Kona, this open-air restaurant features an oceanview that will make all your mainland friends jealous. The food is fantastic, and the customer service is even better. Their Kona coffee is roasted right on site (can you say FRESH?!), and you can even grab a bag of Kona coffee to take home with you."