The Land of Lava
All of the Hawaiian islands, formed by ancient (and ongoing) volcanic activity, are synonymous with volcanoes, but nowhere in the island chain is this more true than on the Big Island. Here, you can look down into the steaming caldera of the world’s most active volcano (Kilauea), stargaze from the top of Hawaii’s tallest volcanic peak (Mauna Kea), and take the drive of a lifetime up the world’s largest volcano (Mauna Loa).
Unlike other volcanoes across the globe, all of these geological giants are easily accessible, with both Kilauea and Mauna Loa within the confines of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and just a short drive (or hike/bike ride) away from Volcano Village Estates. Given how sprawling these volcanic zones are, much of this land is preserved and protected, maintaining the rugged and spectacular topography from when the islands first formed.
A Big Island Without the Big Crowds
Whether it is towering volcanic peaks or never-ending stretches of undeveloped coastline, everything is massive in scale on the Big Island, genuinely living up to its name. To put it into perspective: if you were to combine all of the other Hawaiian islands and then multiply that by two, the Big Island would still be more prominent in size!
Many people are surprised to learn that one of America’s biggest cattle ranches (called Parker Ranch, and they offer tours) is actually on the Big Island, taking up almost 10% of the island’s total area. Combining its expansive landmass with the fact that its population is only 20% of Oahu’s population, pristine landscapes take center stage on the Big Island, a world away from the crowded beaches on some of the other isles.
Sightseeing in a Natural Paradise
Anchored by Kona on the east side and Hilo on the west side, much of the land along both coasts exists in its natural state, without the overly-glamorous and touristy hotels of some other tropical destinations. Rather than shopping malls and high rises, you’ll find waterfalls (such as the 442-foot high Akaka Falls), tropical botanical gardens (a must-add to your itinerary and located just outside of Hilo), and exotic black sand beaches. You’ll also be just a short drive from some of the best snorkeling on the planet (Kealakekua Bay is a protected marine area with perfect water for spending hours coral-gazing and fish-spotting). And the island’s rich volcanic soil produces orchids, coffee, and tropical fruit that will make your taste buds sing.
Reserve your stay today and explore the vast beauty unique to the Big Island!
