Hawaii, The Big Island

Not only big in size, the Big Island offers a large variety of terrain, possibly best put down to the fact that it is home to 11 of the earth's 13 climatic zones. The contrasts will astound you; from lush, green forests to black-sand beaches, andflowing molten lava, to snow-capped mountains. 

Treat yourself to a helicopter ride for a bird's-eye view of this spectacular island and witness lush coastlines, tropical valleys, and the raw power and beauty of the famous Kilauea Volcano. Whether you love hiking, swimming, snorkelling, walking or driving, The Big Island is where you'll find it.

 

 

Places in Hawaii

Kona

On the western side, the sunny Kona Coast is home to the famous Kona Coffee, and is a vibrant resort and shopping area on the island, as well as a popular spot for game fishing and golf. Or head to the long stretch of breathtaking Hamakua coastline and witness cascading waterfalls, verdant valleys and spellbinding seascapes along the drive.

Diversity in terrain extends to diversity in experiences on Hawaii's largest island. Go snorkelling in Kealakekua Bay, watch a local Maui band play in Hilo or view molten lava flow from an active volcano. A must do is a hike through Waipio, the 'Valley of the Kings'.

Hilo

Head to the east's laid-back town of Hilo, the island's capital city and home to an abundance of lush, tropical gardens and lovely architecture. Hilo is also the gateway to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park in the south, where lava flows from an active volcano.

Head west to Wailuku River State Park to discover one of nature's beauties; Rainbow Falls, a large waterfall that forms rainbows through the surrounding mist.

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Kilauea

Located on the southern part of the 'Big Island' Kilauea is one of the youngest and most active volcanoes of Hawaii. The volcano is 1,227 meters above sea level and contains a popular lava lake, know as Kupaʻianaha.

This constantly active volcano last erupted in May 2015, spraying gas, lava, and rocks into the air. This eruption saw the lave lake reach a record-high level!
 

Brocken Inaglory

Molten lava streams down Hawaii's Kilauea volcano - helicopter footage

Did you know...
The Thurston Lava Tube located in the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is big enough to swallow a car!

Gallery

Images courtesy of Hawaiian Tourism Authority. See www.gohawaii.com/au/ for more information about Hawaii.