As the chill of winter bites and distant thoughts drift to sun-drenched shores, there’s one destination that consistently beckons with its promise of warmth and wonder: Hawaii.
More than just a tropical paradise, Hawaii offers a complete sensory experience. It’s the gentle rhythm of island life, the incredible bounty of fresh, wholesome cuisine, the soft kiss of sand beneath your feet, the exhilarating rush of the surf, and the sheer joy of living outdoors from dawn till dusk. Each island in this magnificent archipelago holds its own unique charm and hidden treasures, inviting discovery and promising unforgettable memories.
Over the coming weeks, we embark on an exciting journey to explore my most recent Hawaiian adventure: a captivating exploration of Hawaii Island, affectionately known as The Big Island. Prepare to immerse yourself in its diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and thrilling activities.
Hawaii Island: The Big Island of Contrasts
Nearly twice the size of all the other Hawaiian islands combined, Hawaii Island – or as it’s more commonly and aptly called, The Big Island – truly lives up to its name. It’s a geographical marvel, a dynamic canvas painted with dramatic contrasts that captivate every visitor. This island is a study in diverse ecosystems, from lush rainforests to stark volcanic landscapes, and from pristine white-sand beaches to unique black-sand shores.
The eastern side of Hawaii Island, home to the charming city of Hilo, is a verdant wonderland. Here, emerald rainforests thrive, fed by the frequent, gentle rains that give this side its lush character. The weather in Hilo can be wonderfully unpredictable, transforming from cloudy, windy, and misty to gloriously sunny and pleasant within minutes, adding to the dramatic beauty of the landscape. It’s a region of stunning waterfalls, botanical gardens, and a rich cultural heritage that reflects its history as a major port.
In stark contrast, the western side of the island, where the bustling city of Kona is situated, boasts a consistently sunny and warmer climate. This drier region is renowned for its world-famous coffee plantations, idyllic beaches perfect for snorkeling and diving, and vibrant resorts offering a more classic tropical vacation experience. Kona’s leeward position shields it from much of the rain, making it a popular choice for those seeking endless sunshine.
While we’ll venture into the sunny splendors of Kona later in this series, our immediate focus today is on the captivating highlights and unique adventures awaiting you in the Hilo area. Prepare to discover a side of Hawaii that is both wild and wonderfully welcoming.
Where to Stay on Hawaii’s Big Island: A Gem in Volcano Village
Hawaii Island offers an extensive array of lodging options designed to suit every traveler’s preference and budget. Whether you envision a sprawling vacation home rental for a family getaway, a cozy condo with ocean views, a charming boutique hotel, or a luxurious beachfront resort, The Big Island delivers. From rustic cabins nestled in rainforests to elegant suites, the perfect accommodation for your Hawaiian dream vacation awaits.
During my immersive exploration of the eastern side of Hawaii Island, I had the pleasure of staying at the Kilauea Lodge. This unique establishment, once a YMCA camp, has been lovingly transformed into an enchanting inn and restaurant, offering a blend of history, comfort, and authentic Hawaiian hospitality.
Nestled in the tranquil, unassuming village of Volcano, Kilauea Lodge boasts an enviable location just one mile from the entrance to the magnificent Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This strategic position makes it the ideal base camp for adventurers keen to explore the park’s mesmerizing volcanic landscapes, steaming vents, and dramatic craters. After a full day of hiking, sightseeing, and immersing yourself in the island’s geological wonders, the lodge provides a wonderfully comfortable and serene sanctuary to unwind and rejuvenate.
The lodge features 12 inviting rooms on its main property, complemented by four additional units located conveniently nearby. Each space is thoughtfully decorated with traditional Hawaiian flair, creating an authentic and welcoming ambiance. Guests will find bright, comfortable bedding – a welcome luxury as nights in Volcano Village can be surprisingly crisp and cool, a delightful contrast to the tropical daytime heat. The rooms are adorned with beautiful stained glass and captivating Volcano-inspired art, adding a touch of local artistry. With ample space to spread out and relax, Kilauea Lodge ensures a peaceful and restorative stay.
Standard rooms at Kilauea Lodge comfortably accommodate between two and four guests, with rates starting at $195 per night. For those seeking extra luxury and space, the four larger, deluxe rooms on the property are an excellent choice. These premium accommodations feature private lanais (balconies), complimentary WiFi, and cozy fireplaces, perfect for chilly evenings. Deluxe rooms begin at $215 per night, offering enhanced amenities for a truly indulgent experience.
A full, delicious breakfast at the lodge’s renowned restaurant is included with all room reservations, ensuring a delightful start to your day of exploration. Furthermore, all guests have exclusive access to the lodge’s soothing hot tub and charming gazebo, providing perfect spots for relaxation under the stars or quiet contemplation amidst the lush surroundings.
Dining at Kilauea Lodge: A Culinary Delight
The Kilauea Lodge restaurant isn’t just a place to eat; it’s a dining destination celebrated for its hearty, delicious cuisine and warm, inviting ambiance. Open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a special Sunday brunch, it caters to hungry travelers and local residents alike, offering a menu filled with comforting and expertly prepared dishes.
My culinary journey at Kilauea Lodge began with absolute satisfaction. I wholeheartedly recommend starting your meal with their fried zucchini and sautéed mushrooms – both appetizers are so incredibly flavorful and perfectly prepared that you might find yourself wishing you could enjoy them all night long. For the main course, the “catch of the day” is consistently an excellent choice, showcasing the freshest local seafood. You have the delightful option of having it prepared in one of three exquisite ways:
- Sautéed in Piccata Sauce: A classic preparation that highlights the fish’s natural flavors with a zesty, buttery finish.
- Broiled and Topped with Mango Chutney Glaze and Crushed Macadamia Nuts: This option is an absolute triumph of Hawaiian flavors – the sweetness of the mango chutney perfectly complements the delicate fish, while the macadamia nuts add a delightful crunch. It is, in a word, SO good!
- Blackened Cajun Style with Papaya Salsa: For those who appreciate a bit of spice and a tropical twist, this preparation offers a bold flavor profile balanced by the fresh, vibrant papaya salsa.
To my sincere regret, I didn’t have the opportunity to experience their renowned Sunday Brunch. However, word among locals and fellow travelers is that it’s as skillfully prepared and satisfying as their dinner service. If you find yourself there on a Sunday, please indulge in their intriguing dish called Crossing Lava for me. Imagine: Smoked salmon and perfectly poached eggs served atop grilled English muffins, all generously drizzled with a rich Hollandaise sauce. Doesn’t that sound absolutely amazing and worthy of a culinary pilgrimage?
Adding to the unique charm of the lodge restaurant is a captivating centerpiece: the International Fireplace of Friendship. Constructed in the 1930s, this historic fireplace is embedded with coins and stones collected from all corners of the globe, each telling its own silent story. It serves as a fascinating conversation starter and a symbol of global connection, making your dining experience even more memorable.
Kilauea Lodge
19-3948 Old Volcano Road
Volcano Village, HI 96785
808-967-7366
www.kilauealodge.com
What to Do on The Big Island: Eastern Adventures Await
The Big Island’s eastern side, particularly around Hilo and the Puna district, is an adventurer’s playground, brimming with unique experiences that tap into the island’s raw natural beauty and dynamic geological forces. Are you dreaming of the thrill of biking down a majestic volcano, soaring through a lush rainforest canopy on a zipline, or exploring the mesmerizing expanse of a black sand beach? You can immerse yourself in all these exhilarating activities and discover even more incredible adventures on the vibrant eastern side of Hawaii Island.
Among the many memorable moments of my trip, one experience truly stood out: my very first time ziplining. I know, it’s hard to believe it took me this long to try such an exhilarating activity! But rest assured, it will most certainly not be my last. From the moment I pushed off, I was completely hooked. My sincere gratitude goes out to the incredible crew at KapohoKine Zipline Through Paradise for making my inaugural zipline experience absolutely unforgettable!
Ziplining in Hilo: An Exhilarating Rainforest Adventure
Our ziplining adventure began at the KapohoKine Adventures headquarters, conveniently located in bustling downtown Hilo. After signing the necessary waivers, we had a chance to browse the impressive array of outdoor gear and souvenirs in their store. For those eager to capture every moment of their thrilling journey, GoPro equipment rentals are readily available – a fantastic option if you don’t have your own camera.
With preparations complete, we embarked on a journey that was both rustic and beautiful: a very (and I mean very) bumpy but incredibly scenic drive up to Honoli‘i Mountain. The winding path through the lush Hawaiian landscape built anticipation for the adventure ahead. Upon arrival, our fantastic guides – Alex, Mike D., and Mike H. – immediately put us at ease with their professionalism, humor, and clear instructions. We commenced gearing up, meticulously ensuring our harnesses were secure, all while listening attentively to the crucial safety briefing. Their emphasis on safety instilled confidence, allowing us to fully embrace the excitement.
Then, the moment arrived: it was time for the first zipline. For anyone new to ziplining, the initial approach to the launch platform, especially the rocky footbridge leading up to it, can feel a little intimidating. There’s a natural apprehension before that first leap of faith. Thankfully, our guide Alex was exceptional, offering calm reassurance and friendly encouragement that helped everyone, including myself, feel completely at ease and ready to take flight.
And then, it was my turn! The sensation of pushing off and soaring through the air was absolutely AMAZING. KapohoKine’s Zipline Through Paradise boasts eight distinct zipline runs, each varying in length and offering a unique, breathtaking vista. What makes this experience truly special is that all runs are tandem, allowing you to share the thrill with a friend or family member, or simply enjoy the expansive views as you glide over the rainforest canopy, past cascading waterfalls, and across lush valleys.
I had the distinct pleasure of sharing this incredible adventure with a fun and engaging group, including fellow travel writers Adam Sawyer and Diane Merlino, alongside Erin Kinoshita, who was representing our gracious trip hosts, the Big Island Visitors Bureau.
While I managed to capture several GoPro videos (many of which, admittedly, feature a fair amount of over-excited, rookie zipliner screaming “WOOOOOHOOO!!!”), and despite wishing I had taken even more photos while suspended in the air, the memory of the experience is etched vividly in my mind. Here’s one of the GoPro videos where I managed to maintain a semblance of composure!
Ziplining truly was the pinnacle of my experiences on this trip to Hawaii, the Big Island. It was an incredibly fun, exhilarating, and breathtaking way to kick off our week-long adventure. The glorious sunny day, coupled with the camaraderie of my friendly and hilarious trip mates, made every moment unforgettable. I wholeheartedly loved every aspect of this experience, and the exceptional guides elevated it even further. If you’re planning to add ziplining to your next itinerary on Hawaii Island, I cannot recommend KapohoKine Zipline Through Paradise enough.
Tours operate come rain or shine, embracing the island’s dynamic weather. Prices are subject to change, but at the time of publication, children aged 12 and younger could zipline for $169 each, while adult tickets were priced at $179 each. For those in your group who prefer to keep their feet on solid ground, there’s a “Walk Along” option for $49, allowing them to follow along on foot and watch their friends zip overhead, capturing photos and enjoying the scenery from below. Participants must weigh between 35 and 275 pounds, be able to comfortably navigate stairs, and be capable of lifting 15 pounds. Light snacks and refreshing beverages are provided, with an option to purchase a boxed lunch for extended tours. For more detailed information, including essential tips on what to wear and bring, please visit the KapohoKine Adventures website.
Secrets of Puna Tour: Exploring Eastern Hawaii Island’s Hidden Gems
Building on our adventurous spirit on the eastern side of Hawaii Island, our next captivating experience was the Secrets of Puna tour, another thoughtfully curated offering by KapohoKine Adventures. This tour provides a deeper dive into the unique history, geology, and culture of the Puna district, showcasing a different facet of the Big Island’s allure.
Our first stop on this enlightening journey was the historic Painted Church, officially known as Star of the Sea Painted Church. This charming, decommissioned church carries a remarkable story of resilience and faith, having been moved by dedicated locals not once, but twice, to safeguard it from encroaching molten lava flows. Its survival against the powerful forces of nature makes it a poignant symbol of the community’s spirit and determination.
Stepping inside, visitors are immediately captivated by the vibrant wall paintings that adorn its interior, depicting biblical scenes with a unique, folksy charm. Alongside these artistic treasures, you’ll discover a fascinating collection of photos and written memorabilia that beautifully weave together the rich tapestry of stories, legends, and historical events of the Puna region. Directly across the street, an intriguing Noni Juice factory offers a glimpse into local agriculture and health practices, a detail I look forward to sharing more about in a future post within this series.
After absorbing the history of the Painted Church, we gathered in the gravel lot, where our guide had prepared a truly delicious barbecue lunch. The aroma alone was enough to make our appetites soar! While the stylish shoes pictured below were certainly not on the menu, I must admit I had worked up such an impressive hunger that I might have been tempted to consider a bite, had it not been for the absolutely fantastic and satisfying BBQ spread prepared for us!
Black Sand Beaches and Volcanic Landscapes of Puna
Following our delightful lunch, our adventure continued to explore the mesmerizing beauty of the newest black sand beaches, born from the powerful 1983 volcanic eruption. The sight is nothing short of breathtaking: the stark contrast of the glistening, jet-black molten lava rock against the brilliant azure Hawaiian sky creates an absolutely stunning visual spectacle. Yet, beneath this captivating beauty lies a slightly unsettling realization – the very ground upon which you stand was once a vibrant part of the community, perhaps someone’s home, a thriving business, or a traditional light-sandy beach, now transformed by nature’s immense power.
The allure of these unique beaches was so profound that I found myself taking countless photographs, eager to capture every nuance of this magnificent display of nature’s transformative ability. It’s a powerful reminder of how completely the landscape, and by extension, the lives of its inhabitants, can be altered. To avoid overwhelming you (and to ensure swift loading times for this page), I’ll share just two of my favorite captures from this awe-inspiring location:
The Secrets of Puna tour then wound its way through Mackenzie Park, a coastal area where adventurous souls can snorkel in the pristine waters and explore fascinating lava coves, revealing the underwater wonders created by ancient flows. The tour culminates at the evocative Lava Tree State Park, a truly unique natural sculpture garden where you can marvel at incredible lava formations – the haunting molds of tree trunks that were consumed by molten lava centuries ago, leaving behind a testament to the island’s fiery origins.
Throughout the entire tour, our exceptional guide kept us utterly captivated with fascinating local history, intriguing lore, and enchanting Hawaiian legends. His depth of knowledge was truly impressive, and his engaging storytelling made the landscape and its history come alive. The Secrets of Puna tour, an immersive journey lasting approximately six hours, is available by special request. For more detailed information or to book your unforgettable exploration, contact KapohoKine Adventures.
From the lush, rainy vibrancy of Hilo to the dramatic, ever-changing volcanic landscapes of Puna, the eastern side of Hawaii Island offers a depth of experience that goes far beyond the typical tropical getaway. It’s a place where adventure meets culture, where nature’s power is palpable, and where every turn reveals a new wonder. Whether you’re soaring above rainforests, savoring local flavors, or walking on newly formed earth, The Big Island’s east side promises memories that will last a lifetime.
My question for you today: Have you ever experienced the thrill of ziplining before, and what was your take on it? If not, does the idea of soaring through the air on a zipline pique your interest?