7 Wonders of Hawaii, The Big Island:

1) HAWAII VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK

In the domain of Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of fire, you will find Kilauea, the world’s most active volcano. The current eruption, ongoing since January 1983, is the largest and longest volcanic flank eruption in history. Crater Rim Drive is a wonder of Sulphur banks, steam vents, lava tubes and landscapes of strange lava formations.

2) THE LANDSCAPE OF MAUNA KEA

Drive the Daniel K. lnouye Highway (Saddle Road) to the Visitor Information Station of 1 3,700-foot-high Mauna Kea and see a world of sweeping moonscapes and cinder cones. You’ll need a 4-wheel drive to reach the observatories at the summit where scientists from all over the world view outer space. It’s cold and the air is thin so children and those with weak hearts should not attempt this high-altitude trek.

3) WAIPI’O VALLEY

Visit one of the most ravishingly beautiful valleys in the world. Route 240 ends at an overlook that amazes with its views of towering cliffs, waterfalls, black beaches and lush green fields. For a closer look at the valley, call from the overlook for a ride down in a 4-wheel drive. Do not attempt this ¡n a rental car; the road is too steep and in bad condition. You can hike down as it’s just over one mile, but remember you’ll have to hike back up!

4) PLACE OF REFUGE

During ancient times, this peaceful place ensured safety for vanquished warriors and those who had offended the mighty Hawaiian chiefs. At the Pu’uhonua o Honaunau, such offenders were protected from their enemies by the gods.  Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park in South Kona has been completely restored and offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into Hawai’i’s past. 

5) ‘AKAKA FALLS

Akaka Falls foams and plunges 420 feet in one sheer drop. The falls are surrounded by lush jungle, giant bamboo, yellow ginger, orchids and exotic tree ferns. Legend says ‘Akaka Falls was created by the god ‘Akaka, who, when his wife caught him in an adulterous act, fled, slipped and fell to the water below, creating the waterfall we know today. A paved, easy trail leads to ‘Akaka Falls and the nearby Kahona Falls.  ‘Akaka Falls State Park is near the small town of Honoma, 12 miles north of Hilo.

6) UNDERTHE SEA

Kona’s crystal waters teem with colorful fish and marine life. Swimming at Kahalu’u Beach Park will offer you close encounters with trumpet fish, turtles, moray eels, parrot fish and humuhumunukunukuapua’a. Snorkel cruises will take you to secluded bays, including Kealakekua Bay where you can see the monument to the British explorer Captain Cook who met his fate at this deceptively peaceful place. Dolphins frolic and manta rays glide through these waters.

7) UNDERGROUND LAVA TUBES

Explore the underworld by venturing through entwined miles of lava tubes. Wander through caverns 30-feet high, or crawl through coffin-like tunnels decorated by Pele, the goddess of fire. Thurston Lava Tube (also known as  Nahuku) at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and Kaamana Cave County Park, on Saddle Road near Hilo, are easily accessible.