Island of Hawaii
Island of Inspiration
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Welcome to the Island of Hawaii
The island of Hawaii is the youngest and largest island in the Hawaiian chain. Nearly twice as big as all of the other Hawaiian Islands combined (hence, its nickname, “Big Island”), its sheer size is awe-inspiring. You can travel through all but four of the world's different climate zones here, ranging from Wet Tropical to Polar Tundra, a result of the shielding effect and elevations of the massive volcanoes Maunakea and Maunaloa. From the many geological features at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to the snow-capped heights of Maunakea; from the lush valleys of the Hilo and Hamakua Coasts to the jet-black sands of Punaluu Beach, the island of Hawaii is an unrivaled expression of the power of nature. However you decide to experience the island, it is sure to leave you humbled! Check out the island of Hawaii's regions to explore this vast island.
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Regions of Island of Hawaii
Island of Hawaii
Take a memorable drive from Hilo to the Waipio Valley Lookout to see scenic overlooks, waterfalls, botanical gardens and small towns.
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This friendly, small town is the gateway to the Waipio Valley, and home to cute local shops and restaurants.
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Located on the northern Hamakua Coast, the sacred Waipio Valley was the boyhood home of King Kamehameha I and an important center for political and religious life in Hawaii.
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The Hilo Farmers Market is one of the best open markets in Hawaii, featuring fresh fruit, vegetables, plants and local crafts.
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Liliuokalani Gardens is a beautifully landscaped, 30-acre Japanese garden featuring fishponds, pagodas and rock gardens.
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Akaka Falls State Park features two amazing waterfalls, Akaka Falls (442 feet) and Kahuna Falls (100 feet).
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Downtown Hilo is the island of Hawaii's biggest small town, featuring centuries-old wooden storefronts—many of which are on the National Register of Historic Places—housing a variety of sophisticated galleries, shops, restaurants and cultural sites.
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If you’re looking for a waterfall near Downtown Hilo, take a short drive west on Waianuenue Avenue to Wailuku River State Park.
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This famous black sand beach is a great photo opportunity and is almost as popular with honu (green sea turtles) as it is with visitors.
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The southern-most point in the Hawaiian Islands (and the United States) offers beautiful ocean views.
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One of the state’s most famous attractions is a testament to the power of nature and a rare opportunity to see an active volcano.
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Part of the National Park System, this historic site is home to one of the largest and last heiau (temple) built in Hawaii.
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The Puako Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve is one of the most extensive petroglyph fields in Hawaii.
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Hapuna Beach on the Kohala Coast is one of the largest white sand beaches on the island of Hawaii.
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The Pololu Valley Lookout offers a breathtaking view overlooking Pololu Valley, a black sand beach and the northeastern coastline.
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Visit Puuhonua o Honaunau and learn about early Hawaiian history at this National Historic Park, historic place of refuge and former royal grounds.
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The Keauhou resort area, just south of Historic Kailua Village in Kona, is where you can often spot manta rays and honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles).
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Historic Kailua Village is a lively seaside town in the heart of Kona home to shopping, dining and important historic sites.
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Travel back to the days of the Hawaiian monarchy at Hulihee Palace, located right on Alii Drive in the heart of Historic Kailua Village (Kailua-Kona).
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Just south of Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport, is Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park. Explore this coastal park and discover how an early Hawaiian settlement survived on the rugged Kona coast.
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This seven-acre State Monument is home to unusual lava tree structures that rise up out of the ground.
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Visit this charming artist community located five minutes from Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
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Once a historic town partially destroyed by lava, now a lava viewing area on the southeastern coast of the island of Hawaii.
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If you’re driving along the Hamakua Coast be sure to stop to explore some of its hidden gems, including taro farms, black sand beaches, splendid waterfalls and more.
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The perfect place to explore local shops, a famous farmers market, beautiful beaches and dramatic waterfalls.
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See dramatic features such as lava trees and molds at Lava Trees State Park and swim in volcanically heated tide pools.
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See an active volcano at Hawaii Volcanoes National park and learn how the Hawaiian Islands were formed.
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Bright blue water, abundant resorts, coffee tastings, and unique historical and cultural landmarks — your options are plentiful.
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The island of Hawaii is often called the “Golf Capital of Hawaii” because of the renowned courses found along the Kohala Coast.
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Plan Your Trip to the Island of Hawaii
Mele Kaapuni no Keawe Kū i ka Moku
The Hawaiian Islands Weather
Get a Free State of Hawaii Official Visitors’ Guide
Weddings on the Island of Hawaii
Travel Pono Pledge
One’s love for the planet is an inseverable relationship. Please take the island of Hawaii Pono Pledge and ask your friends and family to do the same.
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