Hawaii's largest island, know as The Big Island offers beauty and relaxation
for all. 4030 square miles, The Big Island is twice as large as all the
other islands combined. The island owns many volcanoes, but the two largest
are Manua Kea and Manua Loa.
MANUA KEA is 13,796 feet tall and is the largest island-based mountain in the
world.
MANUA LOA is 13, 677 feet above sea level and is the largest active volcano
in the world. This volcano last erupted in 1950.
KILAUEA is a third volcano. It is one on the world's most active craters. In
1992 it destroyed the ancient Hawaiian village of Kamoamoa.
The Big Island is the state's greatest producer of sugar, papayas,
vegetables, anthuriums, macadamia nuts, and cattle.
The island measures 93 miles long and 76 miles wide. The road around the
island is 300 miles and can be driven in a day, though it is recommended that
you take 5 days to drive it.
SHOPPING
In downtown Hilo you can find a collection of ethnic eateries, swap shops,
and Japanese groceries.
FLOWER NURSERIES
Visiting one of the many flower nurseries is a must!
Recommendations:
Orchids of Hawaii 959-3581
Nani Man Gardens 959-3541
Hilo Tropical Gardens 935-4957
DRIVES
Taking a day to explore the island in a car is always a nice change of pace.
Drive Banyan Drive and pass Hilo's nicest hotels and if you have green thumb,
this scenic drive offers much eye candy. Drive up Waianuenue Avenue to
Rainbow Falls, a foaming cascade in Wailuku River State Park. Panaewa Rainforest Zoo 959-7224
HOTELS
Hilo Seaside Hotel (800) 367-7000
Hilo Bay Hotel (800) 367-5102
Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel (800) 880-6060
Kona Bay Hotel (800) 367-5102
Kilauea Lodge 967-7366
Hawaii Naniloa Hotel (800) 367-5360
RESTAURANTS
Gwen's 961-2044
This is a great place to pick up a sandwich for a low price when you
are on the go.
Hukilan Restaurant 935-4222
This resturante's menu offers fresh seafood along with steak and
chicken meals.
Lehua's Bar & Grill 935-8055
The house specialties here are the angel hair pasta, stirfried
vegetables, and spinach lasagna.
SKIN-DIVING
For a change of pace try going skin-diving. Hawaii's coast offers some of the
world's best skin-diving and scuba diving. Some great spots are:
Kamakahonu Beach
Old Airport Beach
Hapuna Beach State Park
For tours and equipment, call Jack's Diving Locker at 329-7585 or Fair Wind
at 322-2788.
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