We're pretty well planned out for our 2 weeks on the Big Island and one week on Kauai next month. But if anyone has any off-the-beaten-path sights, restaurants, drives, stops, etc., I'd love to hear them.
We've read many guides and will be traveling with The Big Island Revealed and Kauai Revealed, which seem to be well researched and reflect the author's insights and opinions. But I welcome those of my fellow Slow Travelers as well.
Thanks in advance.
Big Island spelling completed for search engine.
This message has been edited. Last edited by: Doru,
We've had two stays on the Big Island - each for two weeks. That book Big Island Revealed was our guide, and it is fabulous. I'm glad you've already discovered it.
Our first stay was in the home of an acquaintance - on remote Puna. If you want off the beaten track - that's it. Very few restaurants or hotels - little infrastructure for visitors. It's residential and some farming and alternative living. It's also incredibly beautiful. The locals call the road numbered 137 "the red road." It runs along the ocean for a number of miles, and it is amazingly cool and scenic. I recommend that you drive it. The guide book tells you how to find the wonderful black sand beach, with useful tips. (pictured below) Pahoa is an interesting little frontier place. Again, this isn't upscale tourist Hawaii, but its authentic and wonderful.
Our second visit was spent on Alii Drive, south of Kailea Kona - the polar opposite of our stay in Puna. Not much undiscovered there, but do go to Kahaluu Beach Park and be surprised by the incredible snorkeling to be done right off the beach. North of Kailea Kona, there are a couple of great state parks on the ocean - go to them. And be sure to take the Kohala Mountain Road - looks like you're in Wyoming! Be sure to go to the Painted Church. It's so beautiful.
Of course there are many more well known places to go, and I won't go into them all. Have a great time. Linda
Posts: 669 | Location: Outlying area of Chicago | Registered: 15 September 2004
Aloha Dave, Whatever you do and see in Hawaii, you will have a great time. Although I am a maui girl, I love the Big Island. Just driving from one point to another is like a whole new world. The guides you have are excellent, the best in my opinion. I am sure you have all the main attractions covered, but when we visit the Big Island, we love a helicopter tour, especially now to view the flowing lava. We like going without the doors(yes, no doors) for better pictures and airborne feel. Do not forget a light jacket, as it gets chilly up there and on the island in general especially if you are staying in the Hilo side. That is my one suggestion, since I am sure Big Island Reveled has given you many.
For Kauai, don't forget to check out Pauline's notes on Kauai on Slow Travel. She lists her favorite restaurants and sites to see. We are garden lovers and enjoyed the tour of Allerton Estates. You can find out more information about the garden and how to schedule a tour on their website.
Dave - I have been to Big Island and to Kauai a number of times and love B.Island especially. I understand there is considerable building happening on Kauai since I have been there.Big Island Revealed is comprehensive - an excellent guide. I was there in Feb. this year and you may have seen my report. Have a great time! MayK
Posts: 95 | Location: Vancouver B.C. Canada | Registered: 28 August 2006
While on a trip to the Big Island with 4th graders many years ago, we visited the Lyman House Museum. I found it quite interesting. It is located in Hilo. I also was amazed with the trees at the Lava Tree Park near the Volcano area but I am not sure of the status of the park today. I have read things about trying to get rid of the frogs there and damage to the trees. You might want to inquire when you get there. The Thurston Lava Tube is also a fun place to visit (also in the Volcano area). And by the way, the Volcano area is cold not warm as I thought it would be). If the lava is flowing into the ocean and you are up for a hike, you might want to check it out while there.
let me know I have quite a few recommendations to submit for your consideration! Since I use to work in sales for Hawaiian Tour Company...I was there A LOT!
If you would like to view a few of my photos of the Hawaii Tropical Plantation on Hilo side..
go to this link and scroll down to the Hawaii Album
