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Aloha and welcome to Hawaii, the Hawaiian island that
has more than earned its nickname as “The Big Island.” The Big Island
is the largest of all the islands, twice the size of the other main
islands combined and the perfect embodiment of all Hawaii has to offer.
Hawaii’s stunning beauty is surpassed only by her ability to continue
expansion thanks to the constant flow of molten lava from Mt. Kilauea,
the world’s most
active volcano.
The Big Island is considered the golfing Mecca of Hawaii with 20 diverse
and challenging courses and is also known as the sportfishing capital
of Hawaii. Here you can tour the largest privately owned ranch in the
country (Parker Ranch), stay in
luxurious oceanfront resorts, visit
Hawaii’s last authentic native fishing village (Milolii) and spy on
mysterious lava glowing in the deep night as the volcanic creation process
ensues. The diverse activities and natural views here on the Big Island
are truly unparalleled.
Geography and Climate
Comprising 62% of the state’s total area, the Big Island’s land base
is 4,038 square miles and growing by the second. Hawaii is considered
the most ecologically diverse of all the islands due to a very diverse
range of natural environments. Those who love packing in a broad range
of outdoor activities will never be bored on the Big Island.
Temperatures here average between 71 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit (21.6-25
C), dropping as you travel upwards into the mountain lands. It is not
uncommon for temperatures to plunge below freezing atop snowcapped Mauna
Kea. The Big Island contains 11 out of 13 of the world’s climatic zones,
so bring layers if you plan to do some volcano hiking. Expert skiers
with a 4-wheel drive vehicle might like to challenge themselves if the
right conditions present themselves!
The Five Volcanoes
Hawaii is comprised of five distinct volcanoes that through repeated
eruptions eventually came to overlap one another to form one solid island.
Visit Kohala, Mauna Kea, Hualalai, Mauna Loa and Kilauea for a visual
look at Hawaii’s rich geological history. Mauna Loa, the world’s largest
volcano, and Kilauea, the world’s most active volcano, are both active
volcanoes, although Mauna Loa hasn’t erupted since 1984. Mauna Kea volcano
is considered to be the tallest mountain in the world, measuring a total
of 32,000 feet (9,753 m) from base to tip. The Mauna Kea Observatory
is a hub of significant astronomy research – from Mauna Kea’s tip, 90%
of all the stars within our Earthly perspective can be viewed!
Beaches
With 266 linear miles of coastline, the Big Island of
Hawaii is home to over one hundred diverse beaches. However, the typical
white-sand beaches as one knows them from the other islands are rarer
here. On the Big Island, you will find four unique types of sand beaches:
black sand beaches,
green sand beaches, white sand beaches and “salt
and pepper” beaches, which contain a mixture of black and white sand.
For many visitors, the Big Island will be their only chance to visit
a green sand beach (at Ka Lae), where the sand was created from olivine
crystals.
Punaluu Bay on the Big Island’s south shore is popular for
its frequent green sea turtle sightings.
Hilo
Hilo Town, also graced with the nicknames "America's
Wettest City" and "Orchid Capital," emits a feeling of true tropics
here on the Big Island’s east shore. Hilo averages a rainfall of over
100 inches (254 cm) and, as you can imagine, the lush tropical flowers
and plants here are mesmerizing and awe-inspiring. Stop by Liliuokalani
Gardens and Wailuku River State Park for more breathtaking scenery.
Kohala
Kohala, located on the west shore, has the unofficial claim to fame
of being the sunniest spot in the Hawaiian Islands. Luxury resorts combine
with a rich cultural history to form a desirable playground for those
who like to vacation in style. Don’t miss the ever-popular white sand
sun spot
Hapuna Beach.
Waipio Valley
To visit
Waipio is to get a sense of what paradise truly
should be. Waipio Valley on Hawaii’s north shore is fittingly nicknamed
"The Valley of the Kings.”
This expansive and lush green valley, accessible only
by 4-wheel drive or on foot, rewards curious visitors with utopian views
of waterfalls, fruit trees, fishponds, streams and endless visions to
delight the senses.
Macadamia Nut Capital of the World
The town of
Honokaa is on Hawaii’s northeast coast in the Hamakua District,
famous for its gorgeous tropical landscape. Visit the plantation town
that earned this locale the title of “Macadamia Nut Capital of the World.”
As you trek through the wild jungle setting of the Hamakua District,
you won’t want to miss Akaka Falls, the highest waterfall in Hawaii.
What makes the Big Island unique?
Start your journey with a northbound tour along eastern Hawaii’s Hamakua
Coast, then head back down the west side along the Kohala Coast for
spectacular ocean views. Whatever route you choose, and whatever activities
you cram into your time on the Big Island of Hawaii, you’ll have a memorable
and scenic ride that leaves you anticipating your next visit. Many would
agree that the Big Island is the best Hawaii has offer, a natural beginning,
a place where the origins of these volcanic islands are crystal clear
and the creation of life awakens a spiritual side of all who explore
here.
When
searching for
Big Island real estate many buyers prefer to stay in
Big Island vacation rentals to see how they like the area.
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