The Big Island of Hawaii is full of amazing sights to see and activities to do. If you are an active traveler, there are plenty of must-see sights that will leave you hanging to explore more of the ever-changing island. The green sands beach is in a location so remote that only the determined make the trip. A monument dedicated to a British explorer hides behind tall cliffs, with waters abundant with ocean life. Enormous harmless manta rays swim right up to you and kiss your face. When planning your trip, consider the following recommendations; you won’t be disappointed.
Travel down to the south tip of the island, and gain bragging rights to having stepped foot on the southern most point of the United States. A road a short drive away leads to a gravel parking lot just off the ocean. Pack light food and water, and don’t forget protection from the unforgiving sun. A 2 ½ mile hike along a well worn path will lead you to the most unique and remote green sand beach, sheltered by a giant wall of a cliff. You can climb right down to the tiny beach, and enjoy the emerald sand and the feeling of being far away from the real world.
Near the southwest coast of the island lies Kealakekua Bay. Kayaks can be rented about a mile south from the monument of Captain Cook. Pack lunch and snorkel gear and head out. Along the way, head closer to the rocks and hop in the water. The ocean comes to life with fish of all colors, and the friendliest swimmer, the spinner dolphin. Float and observe a life completely different from your own.
Find a dive shop with a good reputation – Kona Honu Divers worked well for me – and schedule yourself to dive or snorkel on a Manta Ray excursion. First, you will do an early evening outing, exploring the beautiful reefs as the fist search for places to stay for the night. Once the sun sets and darkness overcomes the ocean, you’ll hop back in armed with a dive flashlight and a glowstick to identify yourself. Giant graceful manta rays swim back and forth, eating plankton attracted by your light. If you’re lucky, they’ll swim right up to you and eat right off your light.
The big island has many things to offer, but the above are three that are not to be missed. To touch, feel and sunbathe on a green sand beach is unforgettable. Kayaking next to dolphins is incredible. Feeling small next to a giant manta ray is humbling. The big island is for adventurers, so take a deep breath and give it a shot.
Leave a Reply