There are eight major islands that comprise the State of Hawaii. The largest bears the same name as the state, Hawaii, and is often referred to as the Big Island. Divided into moku, the Hawaiian word for district, Kona is one of those districts. As a visitor, here are some highlights that you will not want to miss. `
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.
For kayaking and snorkeling, Keauhou Resort with its sunny weather is the perfect place. Snorkelers can spot manta rays and some honu, Hawaiian green turtles, in the tide pools. With golf courses, spas and fine dining Keauhou is a tourist favorite. Another historic site, Kailua Village is a short drive away. The Village serves as the starting point for the Iron Man Triathlon every year in October.
In the center of the Village is Hulihee Palace, which was the vacation home for the Hawaiian monarchy. Built in 1838, the palace is filled with artifacts and furniture that represents the local culture and artistry. The palace gives a feeling for the history and culture of Hawaii.
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.
People who love to snorkel and scuba dive will be thrilled with the Kealakekua Bay Historical Park. The bay waters are brilliantly clear and full of vividly colored tropical fish and breathe taking coral reefs. In 1778 this is where Captain James Cook first saw the native people. He was the first Westerner they saw and somewhat revered by the islanders. One year later Cook was killed in an angry dispute, but the people showed their respect by erecting a white obelisk memorial in his honor.
Amidst coffee plantations, there is a small village known as Holualoa. Coffee lovers world wide appreciate the coffee grown in the rich volcanic soil. With nearly 600 coffee plantations, visitors can find a few with public tours. This is also home to the local art community. Come for the coffee and the art.
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.
For kayaking and snorkeling, Keauhou Resort with its sunny weather is the perfect place. Snorkelers can spot manta rays and some honu, Hawaiian green turtles, in the tide pools. With golf courses, spas and fine dining Keauhou is a tourist favorite. Another historic site, Kailua Village is a short drive away. The Village serves as the starting point for the Iron Man Triathlon every year in October.
In the center of the Village is Hulihee Palace, which was the vacation home for the Hawaiian monarchy. Built in 1838, the palace is filled with artifacts and furniture that represents the local culture and artistry. The palace gives a feeling for the history and culture of Hawaii.
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.
People who love to snorkel and scuba dive will be thrilled with the Kealakekua Bay Historical Park. The bay waters are brilliantly clear and full of vividly colored tropical fish and breathe taking coral reefs. In 1778 this is where Captain James Cook first saw the native people. He was the first Westerner they saw and somewhat revered by the islanders. One year later Cook was killed in an angry dispute, but the people showed their respect by erecting a white obelisk memorial in his honor.
Amidst coffee plantations, there is a small village known as Holualoa. Coffee lovers world wide appreciate the coffee grown in the rich volcanic soil. With nearly 600 coffee plantations, visitors can find a few with public tours. This is also home to the local art community. Come for the coffee and the art.
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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