Curator’s statement
The Island of Hawai’i is truly one of the most diverse vacation spots in the world. The summit of Mauna Kea, the active lava flows of Kīlauea, the beaches of Kohala coast, and the lush rain forests of the Hilo side of the island—there is something for everyone and a vast array of activities to do. As someone who spent many summers here as a kid, this island is special to me and one of my favorite places on earth.
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Where to stay on Hawai’i
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Things to do on Hawai’i
Overlooking Pololū Valley
Volcanoes National Park
National park on the east side of the island, which contains Kīlauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. The Kīlauea Iki hike, in which you hike on a solidified lava lake from the 1959 eruption, is a particular highlight.
Akaka Falls State Park
Hike through lush rainforest to see two beautiful waterfalls. While the waterfalls are definitely the highlight, the hike through the rainforest is truly amazing.
Snorkeling & scuba diving with manta rays
Get up close and personal with manta rays spanning approximately 15 inches.
Waipi’o and Pololu Valleys
These two valleys are about an hour drive apart from each other, and I recommend visiting them together. While the Waipi’o valley is more famous, the Pololu valley and the trail that takes you down into the valley are, in my opinion, more of a standout.
Hawai‘i Tropical Botanical Garden
A beautiful tropical botanical garden that contains tropical plants from around the world.
Beach days
Depending on where you are staying, I highly recommend Hāpuna Beach, a state park and easily accessible, and Mauna Kea Beach.
Tip: Mauna Kea Beach is only accessible with a permit from parking at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, and parking is very limited so get there early for a spot.
There is a hike which goes from Hāpuna Beach to Mauna Kea Beach, and I have definitely used that to go drink cocktails at Mauna Kea Hotel’s beachside bar.
Places to eat & drink on Hawai’i
Moana
Moana: Beautiful beach-side restaurant at the Kona Village resort. Serving farm-to-table cuisine with friendly and cheerful service.
Cheeky Tiki: Laid-back tiki bar in Kailua-Kona overlooking the water. The Pacific 19 Mai-Tai and Mac Nut Chi Chi were our favorite cocktails.
Beach Tree Restaurant & Bar: The Four Seasons beachside Italian restaurant, serving fairly traditional Italian food with a stunning view.
Hawaiian Style Cafe: Casual eatery with locations in Waimea and Hilo serving Hawaiian comfort food. In my opinion, the best breakfast/brunch on the island.
Waipi’o Fruit Shack: Roadside fruit shack 10 minutes before the Waipi’o Valley. Extremely cute photo-op serving some of the best fresh tropical fruits I’ve ever had.
Gill’s Lanai: Very casual surf shack with great food. One of the few places to eat near the Waipi’o and Pololu Valleys.
Need to know
Even though it’s Hawai’i, pack at least one cold-weather outfit. Parts of the island (i.e. at elevation) can get chilly.
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Steven Langert
Steven Langert
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