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Hawaii

Whitney Eshleman

“E Komo Mai." Welcome.

Hawaii, also referred to as The Big Island, is best known for its white sandy beaches, Mai Tais and swaying palms. The Big Island gets its name from its surface area, which is larger than the land surface area of all other Hawaiian Islands combined, and is the largest island in the United States.

In addition to having the largest volcano in the world, The Big Island is home to the tallest sea mountain, 9 micro climates and a melting pot of ethnicities and cultures, including Hawaiian, Japanese, Chinese, Korean and Portuguese. Needless to say, there is a rich diversity reflected in Hawaii’s welcoming spirit, amazing food and landscape.

Hawaii is synonymous with relaxation. There’s no better way to spend your day than laying back and soaking up the sun on one of Hawaii’s many beaches. Kauna’oa Beach, also referred to as Mauna Kea Beach, is great for families. Enjoy a day of snorkeling, sandcastle building & sunbathing on the beautiful white sand beach.

Consistently voted among the “best beaches of the world,” Hāpuna runs half a mile long, offers year-round sun and has a continuous shore break ideal for body surfing enthusiasts. Take a shaded break and refuel in the picnic pavilion. Another great beach for families to splash and play in.

For a change of scenery, head down to Punalu’u beach, the most famous black sand beach of Hawaii. Easily accessible, Punalu'u black sand beach is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, coastal hikes and seeing turtles. Perfect for the ultimate nature lover.

Head for the trails at green sand beach, Papakōlea, for some adventure and picturesque island views. The beach is carved in a 49,000-year-old cinder cone belonging to the Mauna Loa volcano that contains the green crystals (olivines) that give the beach its name.

During your visit, be sure to enjoy the local fare. After a long, hot day on the beach, head to One Aloha Shave Ice for a refreshing cup of shave ice topped with your favorite tropical fruit flavor.

For some hardier meals, check out Umeke’s or Poke Shack for a fresh poke bowl, or head to Monstera for a great selection of sushi. For local farm-to-table eats, try Foster's Kitchen or Laulima Food Patch.

Experience some of the best sunset views in Kona town at Kona Inn Restaurant, which also boasts a mean Mai Tai. If local beer is more your thing, Kona Brewing Company features locally crafted beer and pizza. Locals and visitors alike appreciate the relaxed vibe and family friendly setting. For a more upscale experience, visit Lava Lava Beach Club, tucked up in the Kohala Coast and located on Anaho’omalu Bay. It's laid back luxury is sure to enhance your dining experience.

On The Big Island, it’s hard to find a bad cup of local coffee. Kona Coffee & Tea Company is family owned, including the coffee farm where they grow, hand pick, mill and roast their own beans. Most mornings, you’ll find the locals getting their caffeine fix, conducting business and connecting with others in the community. Start your day off with the freshest cup of coffee you could wish for.

After your morning coffee, head to Holualoa Village, just south of Kailua Kona, for a taste of old Hawaiian charm. Wander around M. Field Gallery where artist, Mike Field, does all the art work for his art pieces, swimwear, clothing and accessories. His art work defines his love for Hawaii. Before you leave, head into COCO + LITA for unique accessories, gifts and clothing – great for souvenirs.