Embark on an adventure across the diverse landscapes of Hawaii, where every moment is an opportunity for discovery. From volcanic peaks to serene beaches, dive into thrilling adventures, immerse yourself in cultural richness, and create lasting memories in this tropical paradise. Explore the wonders that await, and let Hawaii's beauty captivate your senses.
Nestled in the rolling green hills of Waimea, Anna Ranch Heritage Center, a National Historic Site, is a 110-acre ranch that is dedicated to the celebration of the history of ranching in Hawaii. Known locally as the First Lady of Ranching, Anna Perry-Fiske was an accomplished pau rider, a devoted community advocate and innovative rancher, running her family property until the age of 95. Anna Ranch continues to be a community hub and an important cultural site to the diverse history of Hawaii Island.
Coffee devotees worldwide celebrate the depth of flavor of Kona coffee. A small area on the slopes of Hualalai mountain, Kona’s rich volcanic soil and cool, misty afternoons are uniquely suited to growing some of the world’s finest Arabica Typica coffees. At Kona Joe’s family coffee farm, the plant goes from seed to cup on property, making it a hyperlocal treat. Farm tours and tastings are available daily and should not be missed.
Within the Mauna Lani Resort area lies the ancient Puako Petroglyph Archeological Preserve. After passing through a small kiawe forest, visitors will emerge onto a large plain filled with more than 3,000 ancient petroglyphs. Humans, canoes, turtles and other forms dating back to 1200 AD are etched into rocks throughout the site. While the true meanings behind the carvings are unknown, historians believe that the ancient Hawaiians created carvings for significant events in peoples’ lives. The site is family friendly, and a pair of sneakers is recommended.
On the far side of Waimea is Hawaii Island’s sacred Valley of the Kings, more commonly referred to as the Waipio Valley. About a one hour drive from Mauna Lani, the Waipio Valley Overlook boasts breathtaking vistas of the one mile wide and five mile deep valley. With plunging waterfalls, verdant taro fields and 2,000 foot cliffs, the Waipio Valley is home to some of Hawaii’s most spectacular scenery, but the significance of the area goes back much further. King Kamehameha I grew up in this valley and it was once home to thousands of Native Hawaiians. If you want to go into the valley, contact the concierge to set up a horseback ride or guided van tour.
Down slope from the coffee farms of Kona lies the Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park. The turquoise waters of the bay are home to coral reefs teeming with tropical fish life, and pelagic creatures like dolphins are known to frequent the bay. Snorkel the brilliant waters or enjoy the stunning sights through a kayak tour of the bay. Onshore, visit the monument to Captain James Cook, the first Westerner to make contact with the Hawaiian Islands in 1778. Cook was killed here in Kealakekua Bay in 1779.
Hawaii Island is famous for its black sand beaches, but it also boasts large swaths of golden sand beaches, and even a green sand beach. After you enjoy the soft white sand at the Mauna Lani Beach Club, venture out to Hapuna Beach State Park, just 10 minutes north of Mauna Lani. A half mile stretch of golden sand, Hapuna has a frequent shore break that makes boogie boarding, body surfing and skim boarding fun for the whole family. Or, if the lure of one of the world’s only green sand beaches is calling to you, pack up the car and head down to the Kau district near South Point. Expect to spend a full day exploring Kau and the Olavine-rich shores that create Papakolea’s unique olive green sands.
The Mauna Lani golf courses are immediately recognizable for the stark contrasting beauty of black lava and emerald green fairways.
South Course
The South Course is the former home to the annual Senior Skins Game from 1990 - 2000. The resort is now home to the prestigious Hawaii State Open. The South Course snakes through the stark, rugged a'a lava of the prehistoric Kaniku lava flow, offering a panorama of mountain and ocean views alongside a challenging golf experience. No. 15 is one of the most photographed over-the-water golf course holes in the world.
North Course
The North Course represents the quintessential golf experience on the Big Island. Built on a lava bed, it is characterized by rolling terrain punctuated by kiawe (mesquite) forests. Number 17 is a par three tucked into a natural lava amphitheater and one of Mauna Lani resort signature holes.
Drive about 4 miles south of Mauna Lani to the Waikoloa Resort. (808) 886-7888.
King’s Course
Designers Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish crafted a Scottish links-style layout at the Kings’ that fits with Weiskopf philosophy of demanding the best from the golfer, yet does not overly penalize miss-hit shots.
Beach Course
Created in 1981 by Robert Trent Jones II, this course offers dramatic ocean views especially from the number 7 tee box. Better players have the opportunity to go low and make birdies, but families and new golfers will also enjoy the course for the sheer fun it allows.
About 8 ½ miles from Mauna Lani is Mauna Kea’s 18-hole championship golf course. (808) 882-5400.
Created in 1964 by Robert Trent Jones, Sr., this famous course remains an all-time favorite in beauty and design with elevated, undulating greens and prevailing coastal winds that demand accuracy. The Mauna Kea course offers dramatic coastal views including the signature 3rd hole that stretches across a surging inlet. Golf Digest, America’s 100 Greatest Public Golf Courses, 2009-2016.
It’s an easy drive of about 8 ½ miles along Highway 19 to the Hapuna Golf Course. (808) 880-3000.
This beautiful course designed by Arnold Palmer and Ed Seay climbs from sea level to 700 feet and boasts a view of the coastline and the ocean from every hole. Well-designed, challenging for experienced players and fun for all levels of play.
Open for lunch and dinner, this oceanfront dining option features a delicious menu of locally-sourced meals. From burgers, sandwiches, and salads, to freshly caught fish and delicately prepared steaks, Napua at Mauna Lani Beach Club will surely please. The bar also serves beers from local Hawaii breweries and has an impressive wine list. Walk up for lunch or dinner after a day lounging on the beach below or plan a sunset happy hour with memorable ocean views. Reservations are recommended. Call (808) 885-5910.
This one-mile paved loop trail is the perfect option for the casual hiker. Walk past a wide assortment of plants and flowers that have been placed along the trail by local residents. Everything ranging from palm trees to cactus can be found along the trail that can be found in Kona within the Old Kona Airport State Recreation Area.
This hike is just a 10-minute drive south for guests staying in the Mauna Lani Resort area. Once you park, you can opt to hike to the right along the coastline toward Wainanali’I lagoon (known as Blue Lagoon) or to the left toward a secluded black sand beach. Pack your snorkel and keep your eyes peeled for Hawaiian sea turtles.
Located on the southern coastline of the Big Island, Hawaii Volcanoes Nation Park is a must-do for the avid hiker and nature enthusiast. Speak with park rangers and start off on a trail that best suits your interests. If you are lucky, you may even get to see lava spewing from the volcano during a natural eruption. Other highlights include trails that weave through recent lava flows and show the destruction that molten lava can create.
Located on the southern coastline of the Island of Hawaii, you may want to combine this hike with your visit to Volcanoes National Park.The four-mile roundtrip hike along the coastline can take an average of three hours to complete, but it comes with a rewarding treat. After two miles, you will arrive at Papakolea Beach (also called Mahana Bay). The blue ocean waters flanked by warped black cliff edges and eerily green sand all combine to create a stunning setting. The green sand is an unusual reaction that occurs when the mineral olivine is present. Be sure to pack your camera!
It is called the “Big Island” for a reason. At 4,028 square miles (and growing), it is over five times as large as the second largest Hawaiian Island, Maui. A helicopter tour of the Big Island is the perfect way to see as much of the island as you can while you are visiting. Take in views of active lava beds, waterfalls, remote beaches, and secluded areas that a pedestrian visitor will never get to visit.
There are numerous impressive volcanos on the Island of Hawaii to see, such as Mauna Lea, Mauna Koa, and Kilauea. Depending on the time of year you visit, some of these peaks may even be dusted in snow. Spend a day at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park where you can learn all about the unique geography found around an active volcano!
Kona coffee is known to be some of the best coffee in the world. Kona’s climate paired with traditionally low winds and volcanic rich soil create the perfect setting for growing tasty coffee beans. There are numerous family farms in Kona that offer tours of the grounds to learn about the coffee growing process. Even if you are not able to join a tour, you can still pick up a bag or two of grounds or beans to take home with you to share with your coffee-loving friends.
The magic of Hawaii can best be felt by getting out in nature and walking trails that traverse the rugged coastline, pass historic cultural sites, and bring you face to face with lava fields. Whether exploring the mountaintop elevations of Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea or hiking to the green sand beach at Mahana Bay, there are plenty of stunning hikes on the Big Island. Review our top hikes.
What is a seahorse farm you ask? Exactly what you think it is! Visit the Ocean rider Seahorse Farm, located in Kona, which has been a visitor-favorite activity since 1998. Naturalist and marine biologist will lead you through various seahorse-specific exhibits as you learn about dozens of species and even get to hold a live seahorse
The Kona Brewing Company has been brewing beer in the 50th state for over 25 years. In 2021 they just opened a brand new 30,000 square foot brewery. Stop by to sample a beer or two and also take a tour of the beer-brewing process.
The Island of Hawaii has a rich cultural history. King Kamehameha I was born in Kohala and there are numerous ancient heiaus (temples), traditional fish ponds, and even petroglyph carvings that date back to the 16th century. Visit the Waikaloa Petroglyph field or the Pukao Petroglyph field where you can see ancient carvings of birds, canoes, humans, and more.
Looking for a truly unique and memorable Big Island experience? A night time swim with giant manta rays should be near the top of your list. Due to the deep ocean waters off the Kona coastline, this part of the island is abundant with plankton. Flashlights in the water draw the plankton to the surface and the manta rays follow close behind for feeding. As you float at the surface, you will witness the rays coming up from the depths with their mouths wide open.
Underground caves in Hawaii, more accurately called lava tubes, are formed when molten lava traveled underground thousands of years ago along designated passageways and tubes. Once an eruption occurred and the lava was emptied, all that was left was the empty lava tubes. While there are numerous lava tubes on the Island of Hawaii, the most popular is the Thurston Lava Tube located in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Visitors can walk this 600 ft cave that is illuminated with lights for better viewing.
For those unfamiliar with Hawaiian history, each island used to be under its own rule. It wasn’t until 1810 that King Kamehameha the Great was able to bring all the islands under one Hawaiian nation. There are many tales of King Kamehameha's size, strength, and battles. There are even tales of how he was born under unusual celestial conditions. A 1.5 mile hike in Kokoiki will take you to some rock temples and the original birthplace of this famous king.
Make the drive out to Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historic Park and witness large wood carvings, ancient heiaus (temples) and learn about this walled-off area that served as a refuge for any resident that was looking to escape a death penalty or seek forgiveness. The sacred grounds assured that someone could be protected if they were able to travel to this destination.
Art enthusiasts may want to stop by the Isaacs Art Center located in Kamuela. The center is dedicated to exhibiting art that depicts Hawaii scenes or showcases creative techniques practiced in the islands such as quilting, basket weaving, and wood carving. In addition to the large collection of full-time art ranging from furniture to rare books, the center also has a space dedicated to rotating exhibits. Stop by any weekday to walk through and explore.
Watch an entertaining form of performing art that is directly influenced by the Polynesian culture. Most luaus in Hawaii combine cultural games with authentically prepared cuisine and song and dance meant to tell a story. Learn about legends of how certain islands were formed and chants that may have been recited before going to battle. There are numerous luaus located at the various hotel resorts in Kona and Waikaloa.
Located in Hilo, the Lyman Museum is just the right size for exploring and learning about Hawaiian history. Learn about different cultural groups that inhabited Hawaii over the years and their impact on the ethnically diverse makeup of Hawaii today. Browse artifacts and souvenirs that date back centuries. Other exhibits focus on the landscape and unique indigenous species found in the Hawaiian Islands and nowhere else.
Located just a few minutes from anyone staying at the Islands at Mauna Lani or Mauna Lani Point, the Shops at Mauna Lani is a very convenient option for casual shopping or dining. Window shop over 30 different storefronts and check their event calendar to see if any special performances or pop-up artisan markets are planned. Located at: 68-1330 Mauna Lani Drive, Suite 100; Kohala Coast, Hawaii 96743.
Found in the Waikoloa Beach Resort, this outdoor shopping village hosts over 35 retail shops and dining options. Waikaloa Luxury Cinemas is also located on campus, where you can watch the latest blockbuster movie in an oversized theater chair where you can order food and drinks to be delivered right to your seat! Plan a movie night while on vacation. Located at: 69-201 Waikoloa Beach Dr., Waikoloa, HI 96738.
Also located in the Waikoloa Beach Resort, the Kings’ Shops are catered more toward a luxury shopper with storefronts from brands such as Tiffany & Co., Tori Richard, Martin & MacArthur, and more. There are also some great local surf shops to shop the latest island fashion such as Honolua Surf Co., Rip Curl, and Crazy Shirts. Be sure to try the professionally-designed 9-hole putting course that will challenge every member of the family! Located at: 250 Waikoloa Beach Drive, Waikoloa, HI 96738.
Catering to locals and tourists alike, this shopping center is located just south of Kona. Find a book to read on your Hawaii vacation, sign up for a fast-paced spin class, and shop local boutique designers for items you may not find in larger name-brand retail shops. The Keauhou Shopping Center is also home to Regal Theaters, where you can catch the latest movie playing on the big screen. The shopping center also hosts a farmer’s market every Saturday from 8am to noon. Located at: 6831 Ali‘i Dr #78, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740.
When it comes to groceries on the Island of Hawaii, your best option close to your CoralTree Residence Collection condo is Foodland Farms Mauna Lani. Located in the Shops at Mauna Lani, this Foodland branch is unique because it blends an impressive selection of island-grown, natural, organic selections with customer-favorite items found in the 30+ Foodland stores statewide. Don’t forget to pick up some poke! Located at: 1330 Mauna Lani Dr, Waimea, HI, 96743
Pick up some of that world-famous Kona coffee you have heard so much about or talk directly to a local farmer about what tropical fruit is in season. The Waimea Farmers Market showcases a wide collection of vendors from crafters to farmers. This is the perfect venue for picking up handmade souvenirs for friends and family back home. Relax with a smoothie in hand as you listen to live music. The market takes places Wednesdays and Saturdays 7:30 am through noon. Located at: 65-1224 Lindsey Road, Waimea .
