Kailua Pier

Ali`i Dr, Honokohau Harbor, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

Description: KONA COAST. A great launching point for sightseeing and fishing excursions, this pier is always a-bustle. On one day, an excited crowd may gather to see the weigh-in for a lucky angler's enormous marlin. On another, folks may witness the frenzy that takes place as more than 1500 world-class competitors await the sounding of the gun for the first leg of the Ironman Triathlon. Of course, there's much more to do. Fishing tackle can be rented by landlubbers wary of getting too far from terra firma. Plus, sunsets are nothing short of spectacular ­ rumor has it that the end of the pier has heard more than its share of marriage proposals.

Kawaihae Harbor

N Kohala Mountain Rd, Kawaihae, HI

Description: KOHALA COAST. Historically, Kawaihae Harbor is significant because from here King Kamehameha the Great and his followers set out to conquer other civilizations on the archipelago. Years later, ships dropped anchor with the first horses and cattle to set foot on the Big Island. In more recent times, the bay served as the setting for portions of Kevin Costner's film, Waterworld. Visitors may take in a stunning view of the bay from the Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site, a structure built in the late 18th century to honor the god of war, Kuka'ilimoku. Towering Mauna Kea is visible from the bay on clear days.

Laupahoehoe Beach Park

Laupahoehoe Point, off Hwy 19 N, Laupahoehoe, HI 96764

Description: LAUPAHOEHOE. Easily offering one of the best vistas on the island, this leaf-like peninsula extends far into the Pacific. In the mid-'40s, tragedy struck the village located here when a tsunami swept across the peninsula and claimed the lives of 24 people. A memorial in the park remembers that dreadful incident. Today, Laupahoehoe Point is a terrific place to spend the afternoon, whether your aim is to explore surrounding waterfalls or do some fishing. (Have care: the undertow can be deadly during winter months.) Camping is permitted at the park, and facilities include a pavilion area, restrooms, showers, and camping sites with drinking water and electrical outlets.

Mauna Kea Summit & Onizuka Visitor Center

Mauna Kea Access Rd, Mauna Kea, HI 808-961-2180

Description: MAUNA KEA STATE RECREATION AREA. From the ocean floor to Mauna Kea's 14,000 foot summit, this majestic mountain is the world's tallest. Its elevation, combined with its relative isolation from air pollution, also makes it one of the world's foremost locations for stargazing, a fact not lost on astronomers. Indeed, 11 countries, including Japan, France, and scores of American universities, have set up ultra-modern telescopes to peer into the vastness of space. Be sure to stop by the Onizuka Visitor Center, which offers lecture series and nighttime stargazing programs. Dress warmly ­ at 9500 feet, temperatures tend to drop quickly at sundown, no matter what time of year it is. Most car rental companies prohibit customers from taking cars ­ even 4X4s ­ to the summit, so it's best to make alternate arrangements if that's your intention. And make sure to take a full tank of gas.
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Pololu Valley Lookout

Hwy 270, Mile Marker 28, HI 96719

Description: KOHALA COAST. Make it to the end of scenic Highway 270 and experience the majesty of the Big Island's dramatic Kohala coastline. High above waves that crash onto jagged rocks are several lookout areas that offer sweeping vistas of verdant cliffs and sliver-like waterfalls cascading over them. Folks wanting a touch of adventure can make the strenuous hike down to the black-sand beach at the base of the cliffs. Have care, though: the waters are not good for swimming, and no lifeguards are on duty.