The Big Island of Hawaii is a trip all of it's own.
From scenic beaches to lava fields, the Big Island has a little bit of every type of terrain. The island is split into two sides: Hilo and Kona. The Hilo side is rainier but of course with the rain comes the lush green jungle that is also characteristic of Hilo. Here is where you'll find the picturesque and quintessential Hawaiin scenes. It's a great spot to see waterfalls and hike through the jungle. Orchids, hibiscus', and too many other flowers to name are everywhere gracing the landscape. Pineapples, coconuts, jack fruit, lichee, and my personal favorite, lilikoi grow wild all over Hilo; makes you want to forget about slaving away for a meal and go live off the land.
Kona side is a bit rockier and at times you may feel like you are in Wyoming instead of Hawaii, but this also has much beauty, especially because with the open grassy and rocky fields is usually an expansive view of the ocean. Kona side also holds South Point, the southernmost tip of the United States. Aside from the novelty of being the farthest south you can possibly be in the U.S., there is a very fun hole to jump into that leads out into the open ocean. After you jump, you swim out and grab onto a hanging ladder and climb back up the cliff face. Chances are some locals will encourage you to take the plunge, but it's well worth it and not as scary as it looks.
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| South Point Jumping Hole! |
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| Grab the ladder! |
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| School's out! |
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"Sea Urchine" or "Vana" in Hawaiin. Watch out for these guys! They hurt. |
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| Deep Blue |
Activities to partake in on the Big Island are nearly endless. It is paradise after all, and even doing nothing but relaxing in the warm weather is a wonderful daily activity, but there is so much more. Hikes abound for many different skill levels and there is much to see including exploring lava tubes such as the popular Thurston tube among others that are a bit more off the beaten path. Snorkeling, kayaking, surfing, and diving, are just a few of the water sports you can enjoy as well.
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| Honoli'i Surf Spot |
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| Ho'okena Beach Campground |
The Big Island is magical. I can't get enough of it. And I sincerely hope my travels find me back there again soon. Special thank you to Ron and Kareen Haskin, my amazing grandparents and Kamaina (name given to residents after 5 years living in Hawaii) for taking me around to see so much of the island! Mahalo!
