FAMILY AND LUXURY VACATIONS, CRUISE AND DISNEY DESTINATIONS | WHITNEY WORLD TRAVEL
  • Home
  • Our Story
    • Our Team
    • Join Our Team >
      • Become a Disney Travel Agent
      • Become a Global Travel Advisor
    • Testimonials
    • FAQ
  • Cruises
    • AmaWaterways
    • Carnival Cruises >
      • Carnival Vista from Galveston
    • Norwegian Cruise Line
    • Princess Cruises
    • Royal Caribbean >
      • Royal Caribbean Discounts and Offers
      • Allure of the Seas | Galveston Cruise
      • Royal Caribbean Wine Tasting
    • Do I Need a Passport for a Cruise?
    • Request a Cruise Quote
  • Disney Destinations
    • Authorized Disney Vacation Planner
    • Adventures by Disney >
      • Destinations and Experiences
      • Antarctic Expedition
      • Egypt Adventure NEW
      • European River Cruises
    • Aulani in Hawaii >
      • Latest Offers
    • Disneyland >
      • Disneyland Resorts
      • Disneyland Offers and Discount
    • Disney Cruise Line >
      • The New Disney Wish
      • Value of a Disney Cruise
      • Special Offers- Disney Cruise Line
      • Disney Cruise Line- Texas
      • Destinations
      • Disney Cruise Line | Summer 2024
    • Walt Disney World >
      • Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser
      • Walt Disney World Offers and Discount
      • Why Stay at a Walt Disney World Resort
      • Walt Disney World Resorts
      • Disney World Quick Height Guide
      • Kosher at Disney World
      • Disney Special Events
    • Disney Parks Military Discount
    • RunDisney Experiences
    • Request a Disney Destination Quote
  • Global Destinations
    • Caribbean >
      • Sandals Resorts
      • Beaches Resorts
    • Hawaii
    • Universal Orlando Resort >
      • Ultimate Guide to Butterbeer
    • Guided Adventures
  • Contact
    • Let's Talk
    • CDC Guidance
    • Leave a Review
    • Subscribe to Our Newsletter
    • Client Registration
    • Make a Payment
    • Planning Fees Terms & Conditions

10/7/2015

Explore the Beauty of the 'Big Island', Hawaii

0 Comments

Read Now
 
Picture
With so many amazing options, clients often ask me where the should visit when the take their family vacation to Hawaii. Most people do not realize that Hawaii offers several very diverse options with some of the more popular options being the islands of Maui and Oahu. But if you want to get a real sense of the more natural beauty of the state I always suggest you head over to the 'Big Island', or the island of Hawaii itself.

The largest and youngest island in the Hawaiian chain, the Hawaii Island is still growing. Home to the world's most active volcano (Kilauea) and the tallest sea mountain (Maunakea), this unique island offers all but two of the world's climate zones. From pristine beaches to lush rain forests, active volcanoes to snow capped mountain tops, there is certainly something for everyone on this beautiful island. So check out below for the amazing places to visit during your vacation to the 'Big Island'.

Picture
The island of Hawaii is separated into seven distinct vacation areas with different experiences and focuses available for your family vacation-- Kohala, North Kohala, Kona, Kau, Puna, Hilo, and Hamakua. 

Kona

Kona is the gateway to the majestic island of Hawaii. Here is where your travels will typically begin as you land at the Kona International Airport. The coastline of this region is lined with lava rocks and the area features expansive coffee farms, beautiful beaches, and historic Hawaiian landmarks.

Kona Highlights:     
  • Keauhou- This resort area, just south of Historic Kailua Village, is where you can often spot manta rays and honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles).  
  • Historic Kailua Village - a lively seaside town home to shopping, dining and important historic sites.
  • Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park - This Marine Life Conservation District is a historic area that marks the site where the first westerner, Captain James Cook, landed on the island.
  • Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park- Learn about early Hawaiian history at this historic place of refuge and former royal grounds.
  • Holualoa- This small town and art enclave, located on the slopes of Hualalai Volcano, is located in the heart of Kona Coffee country.
  • Hulihee Palace- this was a historic vacation home for Hawaiian royalty.

Picture
Kohala

The Kohala region is home to some of the finest resorts on the 'Big Island' and is only a short 20-minute drive from the Kona International Airport. Beautiful resorts, amazing golf, and breath taking lava landscapes await you here.

Kohala Coast Highlights:   
  • Puukohola Heiau National Historical Site- this historic site is home to one of the largest and last heiau (temple) built in Hawaii.  
  • Hapuna Beach State Park- one of the largest white sand beaches on Hawaii's Big Island.

North Kohala

While Kohala is known for its beautiful development that intertwines with its surroundings, North Kahala is known for its relatively untouched pastoral beauty. Besides being a beautiful area featuring the charming town of Hawi and the amazing Pololu Valley Overlook, this is also the home of some of the most historically significant sites on the Big Island from Puukohola Heiau to King Kamehameha's birthplace.

North Kohala Highlights:    
  • Pololu Valley Lookout- breathtaking view of Pololu Valley, a black sand beach and the northeastern coastline.  
  • Kamehameha Statue- The original King Kamehameha Statue can be found near his birthplace in North Kohala. 
  • Mookini Heiau State Monument- Built around 480 A.D. this sacred temple is located near Kamehameha's birthplace. 
  • Lapakahi State Historical Park- This partially restored fishing settlement is over 600 years old. 
  • Waimea- Travel to the cool, green pastures to discover paniolo (cowboy) country, fine dining, shopping and culture.

Hamakua

On the northeastern side of Hawaii's Big Island, just north of Hilo, lies the Hamakua Coast. With 84 inches of rainfall a year, this area is known for the Hamakua Heritage Corridor drive, a road trip along the coastline that passes by lush tropical rainforests, waterfalls and lovely seaside views.

Hamakua Highlights:     
  • Akaka Falls State Park- features two amazing waterfalls, Akaka Falls (442 feet) and Kahuna Falls (100 feet).  
  • Hamakua Heritage Corridor- Take a memorable drive from Hilo to the Waipio Valley Lookout to see scenic overlooks, waterfalls, botanical gardens and small towns. 
Picture
​Puna

This area on the eastern tip of Hawaii's Big Island stretches from the sea to the 4,000-foot summit of Kilauea volcano. On the coast you'll find roiling ocean, black-sand beaches and a spring warmed by the volcano's steam. Towards the volcano you'll find rainforests, steam vents and the rugged landscapes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Puna Highlights:     
  • Lava Tree State Park- 17-acre State Monument with excellent examples of unusual lava tree molds. 
  • Kalapana- Once a historic town partially destroyed by lava, now a lava viewing area on the southeastern coast of Hawaii's Big Island.
Kau

Vast, rural and remote, Hawaii Island's southernmost region, Kau, seems almost untouched by civilization except around the small communities of Naalehu and Pahala. In this area you'll discover things have moved along at a pace all their own.

Kau Highlights:     
  • Hawaii Volcanoes National Park- 330,000-acre park spanning the summit of Maunaloa to the sea and home to Kilauea, one of the world's most active volcanoes. 
  • Nahuku (Thurston Lava Tube)- located at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and is easy to explore. 
  • Ka Lae (South Point)- the southern most point in the U.S. and is believed to be the point where the first Polynesians landed on Hawaii. 
  • Punaluu Black Sand Beach- This is one of the most famous black sand beaches in Hawaii and a place to spot protected honu, or Hawaiian green sea turtles.

Interested in planning a vacation to the 'Big Island'? Then click on the button below to touch base with me! I'd be happy to help plan the perfect Hawaiian vacation.

Want to learn more about an amazing vacation to Hawaii? Fill our our travel consultation form and a member of our team will be in touch to help you plan an amazing vacation.

About the Author

Jennifer Whitney, Owner and Travel Advisor
Jenn has a passion for travel. She loves helping families create amazing memories while exploring the world.  From fun family road trips through the mountains of California, to climbing Machu Pichu, conquering Disney Parks, and even sailing the seas, she has either been there or helped a family get there! Jenn is an Accredited Cruise Counselor, Hawaii Destination Specialist, Certified Sandals Specialist and graduate of the Disney College of Knowledge. She also holds a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration from the University of North Texas.

Share

0 Comments



Leave a Reply.

Details

    Get a Vacation Quote

    Subscribe to Our E-Mail

    Archives

    September 2022
    August 2022
    June 2022
    April 2022
    November 2021
    October 2021
    September 2021
    August 2021
    July 2021
    May 2021
    March 2021
    February 2021
    January 2021
    December 2020
    November 2020
    October 2020
    September 2020
    July 2020
    June 2020
    May 2020
    March 2020
    February 2020
    January 2020
    December 2019
    November 2019
    October 2019
    September 2019
    August 2019
    July 2019
    June 2019
    May 2019
    April 2019
    March 2019
    February 2019
    January 2019
    December 2018
    November 2018
    October 2018
    September 2018
    August 2018
    July 2018
    June 2018
    May 2018
    April 2018
    March 2018
    February 2018
    January 2018
    December 2017
    November 2017
    October 2017
    September 2017
    August 2017
    July 2017
    June 2017
    May 2017
    April 2017
    March 2017
    February 2017
    January 2017
    December 2016
    November 2016
    October 2016
    September 2016
    August 2016
    July 2016
    June 2016
    May 2016
    April 2016
    March 2016
    February 2016
    January 2016
    December 2015
    November 2015
    October 2015

    Categories

    All
    Adult Only
    Adventures By Disney
    Airlines
    Asia
    Aulani
    California
    Caribbean
    Central America
    Client Reviews
    Costa Rica
    Cruises
    Deals
    Disney Cruise Line
    Disney Dining
    Disneyland
    Domestic Travel
    Europe
    Featured Adventure
    Guided Adventures
    Hawaii
    Japan
    Luxury Travel
    Mexico
    Mountains
    New York
    North America
    Reviews
    Romance
    Royal Caribbean
    RunDisney
    Sandals & Beaches Resorts
    Ski Vacations
    South America
    South Pacific
    Souvenirs
    Sports Travel
    Star Wars
    Texas
    Travel Expert
    Travel Value
    Travel Video
    Universal Studios
    Walt Disney World
    Wave Season

    RSS Feed

Let's Talk Today
Join Email List
Join Our Team
​About Us
Privacy Policy

Copyright Whitney World Travel, LLC
​The Woodlands, TX
All rights reserved 2015-2023

CST# 2124114-70
Fla. Seller of Travel Reg No. ST40307 

As to Disney artwork, logos, and properties:
​©Disney | Ships' Registry: The Bahamas

​
Picture
Photo used under Creative Commons from Giuseppe Milo (www.pixael.com)
  • Home
  • Our Story
    • Our Team
    • Join Our Team >
      • Become a Disney Travel Agent
      • Become a Global Travel Advisor
    • Testimonials
    • FAQ
  • Cruises
    • AmaWaterways
    • Carnival Cruises >
      • Carnival Vista from Galveston
    • Norwegian Cruise Line
    • Princess Cruises
    • Royal Caribbean >
      • Royal Caribbean Discounts and Offers
      • Allure of the Seas | Galveston Cruise
      • Royal Caribbean Wine Tasting
    • Do I Need a Passport for a Cruise?
    • Request a Cruise Quote
  • Disney Destinations
    • Authorized Disney Vacation Planner
    • Adventures by Disney >
      • Destinations and Experiences
      • Antarctic Expedition
      • Egypt Adventure NEW
      • European River Cruises
    • Aulani in Hawaii >
      • Latest Offers
    • Disneyland >
      • Disneyland Resorts
      • Disneyland Offers and Discount
    • Disney Cruise Line >
      • The New Disney Wish
      • Value of a Disney Cruise
      • Special Offers- Disney Cruise Line
      • Disney Cruise Line- Texas
      • Destinations
      • Disney Cruise Line | Summer 2024
    • Walt Disney World >
      • Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser
      • Walt Disney World Offers and Discount
      • Why Stay at a Walt Disney World Resort
      • Walt Disney World Resorts
      • Disney World Quick Height Guide
      • Kosher at Disney World
      • Disney Special Events
    • Disney Parks Military Discount
    • RunDisney Experiences
    • Request a Disney Destination Quote
  • Global Destinations
    • Caribbean >
      • Sandals Resorts
      • Beaches Resorts
    • Hawaii
    • Universal Orlando Resort >
      • Ultimate Guide to Butterbeer
    • Guided Adventures
  • Contact
    • Let's Talk
    • CDC Guidance
    • Leave a Review
    • Subscribe to Our Newsletter
    • Client Registration
    • Make a Payment
    • Planning Fees Terms & Conditions