Big Island Attractions

Beautiful, well maintained gardens with many interesting plants. $10 entrance fee.

Hawaiian Tropical Botanical Garden pictures and information

The desolate and wind swept south point region. For the explorer who doesn't mind bumpy roads.

South Point pictures and information

Nice views and a pleasant drive on Kohala Mountain Rd through Kohala ranch lands

Kohala Ranch pictures and information

Makaiwa Bays Fish ponds are a great place for a leisurely walk followed by swimming and snorkeling at the adjacent beach.

Makaiwa Bay Fish Pond pictures and information

Brilliant snorkeling with beutifully clear water.

Honaunau Bay pictures and information

Excellent snorkeling at the far end of the bay, reached with a kayak or boat

Kealakekua Bay pictures and information

The remains of an enourmous 200 year old fishpond, teaming with turtles. The beautiful turquoise water is calm and good for swimming, but the snorkeling is dissapointing. Access is via a 25 minute...

Kiholo Bay pictures and information

An interesting historical landmark, and directly next to Honaunau Bay (seen in the panorama) which has excellent snorkeling

Place of Refuge pictures and information

A warm spring in a lovely setting that gets refreshed by the ocean

Ahalanui Warm Spring pictures and information

The view seen from chain of craters road while driving toward the ocean

Chain of Craters Road pictures and information

The mother of all Hawaiian tide pools with great snorkeling and hours of exploration. Can be crowded on weekends but quiet during the week

Kapoho Tide Pools pictures and information

The largest crater in Volcano Nationals Park

Kilauea Crater pictures and information

Steam from the 1959 eruption still escapes the floor of the once lava lake. In startling contrast, a trail through rain forest leads to the lake bottom

Kilauea Iki Crater pictures and information

A quiet camping and picnic park but no safe water access

MacKenzie State Park pictures and information

For reference - this section of the coast

Paradise Park pictures and information

A lava tube that extends 300 meters, the first 40 meters easily accessible and lit.

Thurston Lava Tube pictures and information