The most popular and well known attraction on the Big Island is Hawaii's Volcanoes National Park. The park is located on the south side of the island and is home to Kilauea crater, which is over 2 miles long and 2 miles wide. The active volcano provides a continuous flow of lava, which destroyed the homes and towns of Kapaahu and Kalapana.

Traveling further south will take you to southernmost point in the United States.  Ka Lae or "South Point" as it is referred to, features rugged coastlines and remnants of some of Hawaii's oldest settlements.

Located on the south west side of the island is the town of Captain Cook.  The area was named after Captain James Cook, who was killed at Kealakekua Bay and is now home to many coffee growers.

As you travel north from Captain Cook you will reach the scenic and historic Kona Coast.  The town of Kona offers a peaceful atmosphere with plenty of shopping and dining.  There are many historical sights in Kona, as this was home to King Kamehameha the Great.  The restored royal compound is located adjacent to the King Kamehameha Hotel, which offers free guided tours.

Traveling north will bring you to the Kohala district.  The area is vast with ranches covering the northern district and resorts draping the South Kohala coast.  As you travel east from the town of Waimea you will notice the lush and tropical Waipi'o valley.  The Waipi'o Valley lookout has a pavilion where you can relax and gaze into the valley, or you can hike down into the valley along the jeep road.

Arriving in Hilo you will notice a long stretch of coastline with the majestic Mauna Kea Volcano in the background.  The town offers may attractions which include Liliuokalani Gardens, historic churches and Wailoa River State Park.  Located outside of Hilo is one of the islands spectacular waterfalls, Akaka Falls.

 

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photo credits: Iolanda Marquardt