The state of Hawaii is comprised of eight major islands. Of these, the Island of Hawaii is the largest and referred to as the Big Island. The Island is divided into districts, which the Hawaiians call moku. Kona is one moku, or district of the Big Island. There are many highlights to visit in this district.
Puuhonua o Honaunau is one of a few National Parks in the district. The one hundred eighty acres are filled with history sacred to Hawaiians. You can walk the self guided tour of restored remains complete with a sacred temple that houses the bones of more than twenty Hawaiian chiefs. The park has its own great wall that is ten feet high and seventeen feet thick. Years ago, long before the Westerners came, this is where the Hawaiian lawbreakers came to hide. The wooden images that depict Hawaiian Gods are further evidence that to Hawaiians this is a sacred place.
Keauhou Resort is blessed with sunny weather, making it perfect for snorkeling and kayaking. It is easy to spot manta rays and Hawaiian green turtles, called honu, in the shallow tide pools. This area features spas, golf courses and resorts and welcomes many tourists. The Historic Kailua Village is only minutes away by car. Every October, the Village is the starting point for the world famous Iron Man Triathlon.
At the center of the Kailua Village you will find the Hulihee Palace. This palace was the summer home to Hawaiian Monarchs years ago. Built in 1938 is houses furniture, ornaments and artifacts original to the Hawaiian culture. The sense of history and culture of the monarchy is a history lesson in itself.
Kaloko Honokohau is another historical National Park. The Park has a wealth of man made and natural wonders. There are four sea to mountain land divisions, which the Hawaiians call ahupuaa. There are sacred temples and two engineered fish ponds. At the visitor center, you can learn all about the guided tours that are available.
Kealakekua Bay Historical Park is the place to go for snorkeling and scuba diving. The surrounding brilliant waters of the bay are exceptionally colorful with tropical fish and vivid coral reefs. The park is historic as this is the land that Captain James Cook first landed on when he sailed to Hawaii in 1778. Before Cook, the Hawaiians had not seen any Westerners. Despite the fact that he was killed in a dispute one year later, the Hawaiians esteemed him and erected an obelisk in his honor.
In the heart of coffee plantations, there is little village called Holualoa that is a center for the art community. The volcanic soil is uniquely perfect for the coffee bean. There are almost six hundred coffee farms here, some of which have public tours. Whether you are coming for the art or the coffee, you will not be disappointed.
To really get a feel for the culture and history of a place, it is best to confine your stay to a small area. This will give you the time to take in all the sights and read about the stories and culture behind the sites. Westerners have left a huge footprint on the land, but the old Hawaii can still be seen and appreciated. Stop and smell the flowers. You will not regret it.
Puuhonua o Honaunau is one of a few National Parks in the district. The one hundred eighty acres are filled with history sacred to Hawaiians. You can walk the self guided tour of restored remains complete with a sacred temple that houses the bones of more than twenty Hawaiian chiefs. The park has its own great wall that is ten feet high and seventeen feet thick. Years ago, long before the Westerners came, this is where the Hawaiian lawbreakers came to hide. The wooden images that depict Hawaiian Gods are further evidence that to Hawaiians this is a sacred place.
Keauhou Resort is blessed with sunny weather, making it perfect for snorkeling and kayaking. It is easy to spot manta rays and Hawaiian green turtles, called honu, in the shallow tide pools. This area features spas, golf courses and resorts and welcomes many tourists. The Historic Kailua Village is only minutes away by car. Every October, the Village is the starting point for the world famous Iron Man Triathlon.
At the center of the Kailua Village you will find the Hulihee Palace. This palace was the summer home to Hawaiian Monarchs years ago. Built in 1938 is houses furniture, ornaments and artifacts original to the Hawaiian culture. The sense of history and culture of the monarchy is a history lesson in itself.
Kaloko Honokohau is another historical National Park. The Park has a wealth of man made and natural wonders. There are four sea to mountain land divisions, which the Hawaiians call ahupuaa. There are sacred temples and two engineered fish ponds. At the visitor center, you can learn all about the guided tours that are available.
Kealakekua Bay Historical Park is the place to go for snorkeling and scuba diving. The surrounding brilliant waters of the bay are exceptionally colorful with tropical fish and vivid coral reefs. The park is historic as this is the land that Captain James Cook first landed on when he sailed to Hawaii in 1778. Before Cook, the Hawaiians had not seen any Westerners. Despite the fact that he was killed in a dispute one year later, the Hawaiians esteemed him and erected an obelisk in his honor.
In the heart of coffee plantations, there is little village called Holualoa that is a center for the art community. The volcanic soil is uniquely perfect for the coffee bean. There are almost six hundred coffee farms here, some of which have public tours. Whether you are coming for the art or the coffee, you will not be disappointed.
To really get a feel for the culture and history of a place, it is best to confine your stay to a small area. This will give you the time to take in all the sights and read about the stories and culture behind the sites. Westerners have left a huge footprint on the land, but the old Hawaii can still be seen and appreciated. Stop and smell the flowers. You will not regret it.
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