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HAWAIIDRIVEGUIDE
The Original Driving Magazine
41YearsandCounting
DRIVE GUIDEwelcomes you to the ISLAND OF HAWAII
Puuhonua o
HonaunauPhoto by Ann Cecil
Maps I Coupons I Best Beaches I Win A Free Trip! Page 66
March — June 2015
Features
8 Welcome fromthe Publisher
E Komo Mai
15 How to Use Your Drive Guide
32 Recommended Beaches
Some of our favorites
46 Up in the Air
Zip, zip, zip
58 Volcano!
Hot, hot, hot
59 Shopping
Island creations, Hawaii-style
60 Golf Directory
The best, of course
62 Air Tours
Hawaii Island from above
69 Bed-and-BreakfastAccommodations
Home away from home
70 Perfect Days Hawaii
Share the best
Perfect Drives
16 Kona
34 Kohala
42 Hamakua
48 Hilo
54 Puna and Ka‘u
Bonus Savings
69 Valuable Coupons
Go ahead, save some money
Maps
12-A Island Map
62 Drive Maps Begin
Thirteen detailed
maps to steer you
around the island
AKAKA FALLS
Photo by Maridav / Shutterstock.com
Contents
HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE
March-June 2015 I Vol. 39, No. 1
Perfect Drives
www.hawaiidriveguides.com 3
FREE Inter-Island Gear Return
bossfrog.com
No need to shell out big bucks at the
hotel to take a peek at the reef. Boss Frog
has a better deal. Get a complete snorkel
set for just $1.50
per day or $9.00 per week. Looky here.
2 FOR 1
ON ALL
WEEKLY
SNORKEL
SETRENTALS
HAWAIIAN LUAU
& FIREKNIFE SHOW
This is Hawaii’s premier oceanfront luau with
live music, and much more. Fun for everyone!
Save $14/
couple
Reg. $82
$
7495
SNORKELING
SAIL ADVENTURE
sea turtles & more. Deli lunch with chips,
island fruit, juice, soda, beer & wine included.
Save $26/
couple
Reg. $89
$
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DOLPHIN SEACAVE
RAFTING TRIPSee dolphins, sea caves & Captain Cook’s
Monument. Go snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay.
Includes snacks, drinks, & lunch. 4 hrs of fun!
Save $10/
couple
Reg. $75
$
6995
LAVA WATERFALL
HELICOPTER
Volcano, tropical rainforests, waterfalls, black
sand beaches, and more . 45- 50 minute tour!
Save $18/
couple
Reg. $178
$
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PARASAILINGEARLY BIRD SPECIAL DEAL
Soar 600 feet high above the ocean on a
thrilling tour! Take-off and land from the boat
& enjoy views of Kona! $70 all other times.
Save $10/
couple
Reg. $70
$
6495
ZIPLININGSave $24/
couple
Reg. $159
$
14695
Top Quality Panoramic Mask, Snorkel & Fins, Carry Bag, Snorkel Map,
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Prices, features & tours subject to change w/o notice. All prices are per person
& subject to tax, fuel surcharges, harbor fees, & 3% booking fee. Limited seats available on
some trips. Can not combine offers. Must present ad in advance. HDG03-0615
Free week rental of a boogie board with any activity purchased.
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---Frommer’s
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One of the most fun activities in Hawaii, if you
haven’t done it yet - go now! Soar over the
Honolii river, waterfalls & through rainforests.
This is Hawaii’s only real submarine adventure!
Dive deep in air conditioned comfort. See
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$
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900
PER WEEK
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FROM
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FROM
75-5725 Ali’i Drive, In the Heart of Kona Town,
Across from the Kona Inn at the Kona Marketplace
Dive & Surf R
Located at Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay
808.930.4900
LOCALLY SOURCED
BIG ISLAND CUISINE AND
HANDCRAFTED COCKTAILS
Experience Hawai‘i’s abundant farm-to-table bounty
and the culinary artistry of Chef de Cuisine Jayson Malla
alongside live music nightly and stunning ocean views.
/RAYSONTHEBAY @RAYSONTHEBAY #RAYSONTHEBAY
3)
2)1)
Please join us in:
Snorkel Bob’s Family Values!
"Only with me, Snorkel Bob, do family values mean more fun on fewer dollars. Your
junior barracuda will be reef confident in Snorkel Bob fins, Li'l Bubba™ snorkel and Li'l Mo Betta™ mask (Rx in
stock!)–no snuks, leaks or implosion trauma. I, Snorkel Bob, have Rx masks for adults too and Bigfoot fins (15-17) for
the mongo among you."
Snorkel Bob admitted to sleep deprivation since Larry arrived.“Worse yet,he interrupts Catfish & me,Snorkel Bob,
if you get my drift. On the bright side, neither hairballs nor missing the litter box can deter our joy. Catfish is the
mother of our kitten. Our family may be rebuked on some channels, but we’ll have each other and maybe you too on
Mask, Fins, Snorkel, Gear bag, No-Fog, Fish ID, Map ’n Tips & a FREE Bubba™ dry snorkel
to use with every set for $9/week!
"So we snorkel happily ever after, with the little feets kneading, the little motors purring, the sandpaper tongues on
my chinny chin chin, and if that ain’t love, then what?”
Let the Values Begin with a FREE turtle art beach bag or a boogie board for
the week when you reserve 2 seats on most snorkel trips, luaus, ziplines, surf lessons or helicopter rides.
And now... reserve multiple activities, get $5 off per person on 2nd or more activities. Because
family values mean not paying too much, no matter how often you want to snorkel.
She’sacat.I’mSnorkelBob. We’restillinlove. AndBabyLarrymakes
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Kailua-Kona 329-0770
Kohala/Waikoloa 885-9499 @ The Shops at Mauna Lani
Snorkelspawn is among us.
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I mean you, Bubba,
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Does your dry snorkel
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whining over snuks & womb
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The Bubba snorkels (pat pending)
drain splash water, block backwash
and clear easy as ptuey! The Li’l
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small format EVER. Kids gag on
adult snorkels or junk kid snorkels
that collapse. Salt water in the
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happy as a meadowlark in springtime.
The Ultima Bubba™, for 100
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and stays dry.
It won’t flop,
leak or crunch
and is simply
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market today.
FREE BUBBA (Li’l or Ultima)
for use with gear for the week!
Kailua-Kona 329-0770
Kohala/Waikoloa 885-9499
All Islands 8-5 Every Day
No snuks, leaks,
or pond scum in
the gear wash.
EKomoMai
T
hank you for choosing to
spend your vacation time
with us here on the Big
Island of Hawaii. At 4,038 square
miles, the island is nearly twice
the size of all the other islands
combined and, thanks to our ac-
tive volcano, getting bigger every
day. On behalf of all our advertis-
ers, we wish each and every visitor
a safe and enjoyable stay. To those
of you who are returning to the
Big Island, we extend a sincere
mahalo and welcome back! You can also visit our website
at:www.honolulupublishing.com and our digital site at
www.hawaiidriveguides.com
Editor — Brett Uprichard
Art Director — Darrell Ishii
Production Director — Patty O’Hara
Associate Art Director — Rodney Gardine
Internet Marketing Director — Darrell Grindstaff
Advertising Design — Renaissance Blue Design
Copy Editor — Kathy Reimers
Administrative Assistant for Hawaii Drive Guides — Melisa Kitsuki-Shearer
Accounting — Kathy Yamada, Brianna Yanagida
Circulation/Distribution — Hawaii Folder Service 808-960-0432
ADVERTISING SALES
HAWAII AND KAUAI DRIVE GUIDE — Fax: 808-531-2306; 808-245-6419
Publisher — Maurina Borgatti — 808-245-8910
Hawaii Island Sales and Marketing Executive:
Rene¯e Resureccion — 808-935-9822
MAUI, MOLOKAI AND OAHU DRIVE GUIDE — Fax: 808-873-6280
Publisher — Winona L. Higashi
800-724-6200, Ext. 24; 808-873-6240, Ext. 24
Maui Sales and Marketing Executive:
Herb Tedebjörk — 808-442-2735
Oahu Sales and Marketing Executive:
Dawn Gohara — 800-272-5245, Ext. 205
Oahu and Molokai Sales and Marketing Executive:
Chris Sold — 800-272-5245, Ext. 228
The HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE is published three times a year by Hon-
olulu Publishing Company, Ltd., 707 Richards St., Suite PH3, Honolulu,
Hawaii 96813. Telephone 808-524-7400. From Neighbor Islands, call
toll free 800-272-5245. Chairman: David Pellegrin; President and Chief
Executive Officer: N.C. Tinebra; Executive Vice President–Group Pub-
lisher: Winona L. Higashi; Vice President–Production: Patty O’Hara. All
rights reserved. No part of this GUIDE may be reproduced without per-
mission of the publisher. All contents copyright © 2015 by Honolulu
Publishing Company, Ltd. Requests for DRIVE GUIDES should be
accompanied by $5 per copy for handling and first-class mailing.
MAURINA BORGATTI
Gifts from
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9 9 9 9 9 9 9 8 1 9 5 8 - Calendar 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 8 0 5 0 2 - Sarong9 9 9 9 9 9 9 8 0 5 0 1 - Mug
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hen something is done
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That’s why “quality” is one of our main
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roasted to golden perfection resulting in a superior product
people have enjoyed for over 30 years. We are dedicated
to offering only the finest macadamia nuts
in 12 delicious flavors.
isit our Visitor Center where you can enjoy free
samples and shop for an assortment of island treats
and gifts including an exclusive selection of Mauna
Loa®
products. Then view how we create our
delectable flavors of macadamia nuts at our
factory. Enjoy a 3 mile drive through macadamia
nut orchards as you approach our Visitor Center.
From Hilo:
South on Highway 11 for 5 miles,
turn left on Macadamia Road
From Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park:
North on Highway 11 for 20 miles,
turn right on Macadamia Road.
OPEN DAILY 8:30am to 5:00pm
Factory typically does not operate on weekends or holidays
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Save some money, go online. Email us at reservations@safarihelicopters.com.
Tours vary depending on weather. 24 hr. cancellation. Weight restrictions apply.
Fly v ctiv v & 9 stru n
O C l v l es & s ylights
VOLCANO COAST SPECIAL
16900$ includes
all fees
40-45 Minutes
Safari Helicopters
While you are online, read about Safari’s founder Preston Myers who was in
the Navy during Vietnam and flew for Air America before he started Safari
Helicopters. His military training and discipline have helped him create the
procedures and standards that have contributed to Safari’s excellent safety
record and consistently high quality. Safari regularly wins numerous awards
locally and nationally.
See more of it on our Deluxe tour that includes views of majestic waterfalls and
volcanic activity that may include cinder cones, lava lakes, glowing skylights
and lava flowing to the sea, depending on Madame Pele’s moods.You didn’t
just fly over 4000 miles to miss this! We also have a popular Volcano/Coast tour.
Go to our web site for more details.
You can expect the highest standard of service and attention that can only be
provided by a family-owned business. Safari is small enough to pay attention to
every detail and large enough to be competitive with huge tour corporations.
Safari is one of the most respected names in touring
There is a good reason they call it the big Island
Safari gives you service with the spirit of Aloha
Come on Safari with us and see
what everyone else is going to be missing
H E L I C O S
THE
PEOPLES CH
OICE
SINCE 1987
Big Island 808-969-1259 Kauai 808-246-0136
Toll Free 800-326-3356
www.safarihelicopters.com
Save some money
Big Island video
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THE MOST BEAUTIFUL AREA IN HAWAII
Onomea Rain Forest and Flower Jungle
Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden A GARDEN IN A VALLEY ON THE OCEAN
HAWAII TROPICAL BOTANICAL GARDEN is dedicated
to preserving a spectacular Hawaiian rain forest. Located at
Onomea Bay seven miles north of Hilo, this beautiful valley is
a sanctuary and nature preserve for rare and endangered trop-
ical plants from around the world, endemic Hawaiian plants
and endangered tropical wildlife.
SEE THE GARDEN’S BEAUTIFUL DISPLAY OF
ORCHIDS in a natural setting. A nature lover and photog-
rapher’s paradise, the Garden has over 2,000 species of flow-
ers, palms and plants all growing in an unspoiled environ-
ment. It is the only botanical garden in Hawaii fronting the
ocean, with natural streams, a cascading 3-tier waterfall and
palms as tall as 100 feet. Our new visitor center features a
Historical Museum and our exquisite Garden Gift Shop.
PLEASE PLANYOUR DAYTO ARRIVE EARLY—You will
want to spend at least two hours to enjoy this one-of-a-kind
Hawaiian nature preserve. Open daily from 9:00am to
5:00pm. Last entry at 4pm. Member of American Association
of Botanical Gardens and Arboreta. Adult admission charged;
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www.hawaiigarden.com
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How to Use Your
Drive Guide
EKomoMai!Welcome to Hawaii Island, commonly
known as “the Big Island,” because it’s the largest island in
the Hawaiian chain (nearly twice as big as the other islands
combined) and to differentiate it from the state’s name. Other
nicknames include the Volcano Isle and the Orchid Isle, for
the profusion of orchid farms that thrive here.
The HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE is designed to help visitors get the
most out of their vacations on this special island, which boasts
one of the world’s most active volcanoes and two of the largest
mountain masses on Earth. Our goal is to steer you in the right
direction for the finest scenic attractions, beautiful beaches, great
dining and fun shopping. Hawaii is also a terrific place for a wide
range of activities for all ages and abilities, from exciting deep-sea
fishing to relaxing boat cruises. The island is rich in cultural heri-
tage, fascinating museums, a variety of special events and world-
famous annual festivals, including Hilo’s Merrie Monarch Festival.
Driving around the Big Island is certainly no one-day affair. Ideally,
the island should be approached with several day tours. We have
divided the island into five Perfect Drives, mapping out these
geographical areas to simplify your driving and walking tours:
•Page 16: Kona, including the seaside town of Kailua-Kona.
•Page 34: Kohala, the land of paniolo (cowboys).
•Page 42: Hamakua, the expansive coastline once home
to sugar plantations.
Digital Drive Guides at
www.hawaiidriveguides.com
FOLLOW US
www.facebook.com/PerfectDaysHi
www.twitter.com/PerfectDaysHi
www.youtube.com/PerfectDaysHi
www.pinterest.com/PerfectDaysHI
•Page 48: Hilo, a charming town worth strolling leisurely.
•Page 54: Puna and Ka‘u, with Hawaii Volcanoes National
Park, the main attraction of the area.
The 13 detailed maps are conveniently grouped together in the
back section of your DRIVE GUIDE. Refer to the table of contents
for details on each region, including referenced area maps, major
attractions and information about dining, shopping and activities.
Have a safe, carefree visit, but don’t let your guard down. Even
paradise has a few bad apples, so precautions are advised: Never
carry excess cash and never lock valuables, such as cameras and
jewelry, in your rental car. Never swim at a beach alone and,
whenever possible, select beaches with a lifeguard or where locals
can inform you of ocean conditions. In general, conduct yourself
as you would back home. If you plan to drink alcohol, choose a
designated driver. Always avoid poorly lit areas late at night. As in
many other places, it is prohibited to use cell phones and other
electronic devices while operating a motor vehicle. In the event of
an emergency, you can dial 911 from any pay phone without
depositing money. For non-emergency help, dial 211.
From the largest R&D data pool in the world comes Sumo™
.
Designed for the average-to-full-visage range,Sumo™
will broaden subaqueous horizons like never before.Coast-to-Coast/
Heaven-&-Earth (CtC/H&E) technology renders the reef global at last. With HD/EZ-adjust buckle, compression-molded
subframe,Apollo XIX re-entry polymer mainframe, Ultra-lite Engineering (UlE), crystal silicone skirt & strap, Sumo™
will
bellybutt any other mask in any arena––2’ to 200’!
Sumo™
WILL OUTLIVEYOU.It will not leak or break with normal use. So don’t pussyfoot around on snuks,glugs & a hard
sell on a timeshare. Get to a reef & SEE what you been missing. Oh, & hey! Fishfood is killing our reefs. I, SB, don’t sell it.
If it’s new in snorkeling, it’s from me, Snorkel Bob.
“The Sumo
™
is the best BIG VIEW mask in the world!”
––Snorkel Bob, Himself
No snuks, leaks, or pond scum in the gear wash.
Kailua-Kona 329-0770
Kohala/Waikoloa 885-9499
Kona
PUUHONUA O HONAUNAU is among the historical Hawaiian treasures that dot North and South Kona. Other key sites in this area
include Ahuena Heiau, Hulihee Palace, Mokuaikaua Church and the Captain Cook Monument in Kealakekua Bay. I PAGE 30
ST. BENEDICT’S PAINTED CHURCH, a hidden jewel near Honaunau,
dates back to 1842. Father John Berchmans Velge painted its interior with
dramatic scenes from the Bible. I PAGE 20
Hawaiian royalty chose
a prime location along
Kailua-Kona’s scenic bay for
HULIHEE PALACE, built in
the early 1800s as a summer
retreat. I PAGE 18
16 HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE March-June 2015
PhotosbyCleanfotos/Shutterstock.com;BrettUprichard
TopDriveGuidePicks
SEE MAPS ON
PAGES 62, 63, 65 & 66
is the shining jewel of the area and its main thoroughfare is
Alii Drive. Starting at Kailua Pier ( on Map 1-A, D-4),
Alii Drive follows the shoreline and is a perfect strolling
road. Shaded by giant banyan trees and lined with shops
and restaurants, a good place to begin is at the pier, over-
looking Ahuena Heiau ( on Map 1-A, E-4). This ancient
Hawaiian temple faces Kamakahonu (literally, “eye of the
turtle”), a small, sandy stretch of beach where King Kameha-
meha the Great maintained his royal residence until his
death in 1819. Nearby Mokuaikaua Church ( on Map
1-A, C-4) is the oldest Christian church in Hawaii, built by
missionaries in 1820.
Across the street, along
the shoreline, is one of the
most important historical
structures in Kailua,
Hulihee Palace ( on
Map 1-A, C-4). Built in
the 1800s for royalty, it
is today a fascinating
museum dedicated to
preserving Hawaii’s
unique cultural heritage.
Farther south along Alii Drive, best
reached by car, is Magic Sands
( on Map 1, H-2) and Kahaluu
Beach Park ( on Map 1, I-2),
as well as Keauhou Bay ( on
Map 1, J-1). Save time to stop by
the quaint little blue chapel,
St. Peter’s Church ( on Map
1, I-2) and some of the beaches
north of Kona, including Anaehoo-
malu Beach Park( onMap3,E-2).
amous for its clear blue waters,
world-class sport fishing and
marine life, Kona has just about every water activity imagina-
ble. Make it a point to spend some time getting in the water
or at least on the water while you’re here. Several water
activities are based at Honokohau Harbor ( on Map 1,
E-1), along Alii Drive at Kailua Pier ( on Map 1-A, D-4)
and at beautiful Keauhou Bay ( on Map 1, J-1).
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Romantic Kailua-Kona
18 HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE March-June 2015
LET’S PLAY Chase some world-class big
game on the open sea, get a bird’s-eye
view of the Kona Coast, scuba dive in a bay
that made international history.
LET’S EAT Choose from a variety of
excellent restaurants for some fresh catch
of the day, right out of Kona waters, or satisfy
a hearty appetite with a big, juicy steak.
LET’S SHOP Add a touch of aloha to
your home with renowned Kona art,
Hawaiian floral rugs, inspired jewelry, Island
collectibles and perhaps some fun souvenirs
for friends back home.
Kona
FOn the west coast of the Big Island, the districts
of North and South Kona deserve several days of
exploration. Once the capital of the Hawaiian
Kingdom, the Kona region is rich in history. It’s also famous for
its mild climate, sunny beaches, water activities, stunning sun-
sets and prime real estate. The town of Kailua-Kona and the
entire area from the airport to Keauhou are often referred to
simply as Kona.
HULIHEE PALACE
OceanImagePhotography/Shutterstock.com;BrettUprichard
www.hawaiidriveguides.com 19
Bite Me Sportfishing ( on Map 1, E-1)
(808-936-3442). Located in Honokohau
Harbor, 74-425 Kealakehe Parkway,
No. 17. Bite Me Sport Fishing has been
rated Kailua-Kona’s No.1 sport-fishing
charter since 2000. Harboring five
beautiful boats and a restaurant/fish market, fishing in
Hawaii has never been more accommodating. Don’t forget
to ask to have your catch cooked for you.
E-mail: konafishing@bitemesportfishing.com
www.bitemesportfishing.com
Body Glove Cruises ( on Map 1-A, D-4) (888-247-8509).
The Snorkel and Dolphin Adventure guarantees dolphin
sightings or come again for FREE. Enjoy breakfast, a barbecue
lunch, snorkeling, a 20-foot water slide and a 15-foot-high
dive. Instruction, flotation devices, toys and all gear provided,
with SCUBA, SNUBA, GoPros, Torpedo underwater scooters
and wetsuits available for a bit extra. Historical sunset dinner
and lunch cruises to Kealakekua Bay are offered, as well as
seasonal whale-watching excursions. The beautiful 65-foot
catamaran has three restrooms, freshwater showers, cushioned
seating, plenty of shade, a premium cash bar and is wheel-
chair accessible.
www.bodyglovehawaii.com
Boss Frog’s Snorkel, Surf & Cycle ( on Map 1-A, D-4)
(808-331-1990). Located in the Kona Marketplace at 75-5725
Alii Drive. Boss Frog’s has everything you need for the beach:
snorkel gear, boogieboards, surfboards, stand-up paddle-
boards, digital underwater cameras, coolers, umbrellas, beach
chairs, wet suits, sun hats, beach towels, sunscreen, visors and
great discounts on activities.
www.bossfrog.com
Captain Zodiac ( on Map 1, E-1) (808-329-3199).
Located at Honokohau Harbor. Captain Zodiac, voted
“Best Tour in Kona,” is an exciting ride, highlighted by the
Kealakekua Bay Marine Preserve destination. Explore the sea
caves and enjoy close encounters with dolphins and whales
on the fast, highly maneuverable Zodiac rafts. Small groups,
an informative captain and crew, and a beautiful snorkel spot
make this one of the island’s most popular tours. Morning,
afternoon and midday tours are available. Beat the Crowd is
the midday tour (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) and includes lunch.
Swim with dolphins and fewer people at Kealakekua Bay.
Wild Dolphin Swim, an amazing new experience, allows you
4
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Kona by the bay
Photo by Brett Uprichard
LET’S
PLAY
Call for Details
“Book 2 or More Trips & Save!”
Email: SunLightOnWater@gmail.com
www.SunlightOnWater.com
DOLPHIN SWIMS, Daily
MANTA SNORKELS, Nightly
WHALE WATCHING CHARTERS, Jan-Feb-Mar
NEW! SNORKEL KEALAKEKUA BAY, Afternoons
MANTA
Join us for an unforgettable journey
that will speak to your Heart & Spirit!
Snorkel Gear, snacks & photos included on all tours.
CaCalallll fforor
“B“BoBoookk 2 orr MoMorrBBBooookok 2 oror MoMoror
MMANTANT
r DDetettaiaililsls
rere riripipsps & SaSaveve!!”!”TTTrTrrere riripipsps & SaSaaveve!e!!TTr
TTAA
to join dolphins in their natural habitat. Whale-watching
December through April features small groups, so everyone
has front-row seats, and fast Zodiacs get you to the action
quicker, with frequent close-up encounters.
www.captainzodiac.com
Expedia Local Expert ( on Map 1, F-1) (888-353-8523).
The Big Island is known for its volcanoes and marlin fishing.
This fun activity center helps visitors get the best prices daily
on helicopter volcano tours, snorkel and scuba diving, para-
sailing, fishing, horseback riding, luaus and more. Meet with
friendly staff, who know the island, answer your questions
and do the legwork while you relax.
Fair Wind II ( on Map 1, J-1) (808-345-3340). A snorkel
cruise to Kealakekua Bay aboard the 60-foot Fair Wind II is a
treat for the whole family. She features two 15-foot water
slides, a high-jump platform, freshwater showers and a
no-host bar. Flotation devices, boogie boards with viewing
windows, snorkel gear (including prescription masks), view
boxes and inner tubes with seats for the children are provided.
The shallow mooring gives easy access to all the sights, and
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Kona
Sitting on the volcanic
slopes of the Big Is-
land’s Mauna Loa, St.
Benedict’s Painted Church
is one of Hawaii’s treas-
ured historic structures.
The wooden edifice, built
in 1842 to serve South
Kona’s predominantly
Hawaiian population at
the time, is located off
Honaunau Road in the
midst of lush farm lands
where avocado, banana
and coffee plants flourish. A marvelous time of day to visit the
Painted Church is near sunset, when the setting sun lights up
the church, its white exterior glowing brightly against the
dark clouds that cling to the mountain slopes at day’s end.
Today, serving the area’s Catholics, mostly part-Hawaiian
and Filipino families that still work the land, St. Benedict
Roman Catholic Church is listed on the Hawaii State Register
of Historical Places and theNational Register of Historical
Places. ( , Map 2, E-3)7
ST. BENEDICT’S
PAINTED
CHURCH
BrettUprichard
SWIM WITH DOLPHIN’S
DOLPHIN • SNORKEL • SAILING
KAMANU CHARTERS
KONA’S ONLY “REAL” SAILING CATAMARAN
CALL
329-2021
Whale Watching
December - April
Manta
Snorkel
Dolphin
Encounters
Leave the crowds
to the other boats.
24 guest maximum
(usually less)
4 Different Exciting Trips Daily
Snorkel Sail •Sunset Sail •Dolphin Swim
Sunset Manta Ray Snorkel
Take 2 or more trips and save!
SUNSET SAIL
Pupus and open bar
included on this
adults-only sunset sail
20 guest maximum
Sailing Daily from
Honokohau Marina
24 hour
cancellation notice
$
20 OFFPER COUPLE
ON ANY TRIP
or $10 OFF per adults.
Call direct and mention this ad.
Not valid with any other offer. kamanu.com
KAMANU CHARTERS 329-2021
Kona
you’ll be treated to a living rainbow of tropical fish and
beautiful reef formations. Add to that a great selection of food
and refreshments and Fair Wind II is your base for excitement
and relaxation.
www.fair-wind.com
GyPSy Guide (866-477-4171). If you’re planning to drive
to Volcanoes National Park from Kona or the Kohala Coast,
download the GyPSy Guide driving tour app. It’s just like
having a tour guide in your car! GyPSy Guide plays interesting
commentary automatically as you drive, telling you about the
fantastic sites and features before they whip by. The tour
provides an introduction as you drive to the volcano and
explains key places to visit when you get there. Download the
app to iPhone or Android devices over Wi-Fi. Requires no
data or cellular connection while you are touring. Search
“gypsy guide Hawaii” in your app store.
www.gypsyguide.com
Hawaii Forest & Trail ( on Map 1, E-2) (800-464-1993).
Located at 74-5035B Queen Kaahumanu Highway. Hawaii
Forest & Trail staff would like to help you discover the Hawaii
they know and love. The nature adventures showcase the
island’s amazing diversity, from private waterfalls to soaring
mountain summits and an active volcano. All tours are fully
catered and outfitted, and feature relaxed, easy walks led by
professionally trained, interpretive guides who share with you
the landscapes, legends and life of Hawaii.
www.hawaii-forest.com
Hula Kai ( on Map 1, J-1) (808-345-3340). Hula Kai
is a luxurious, 55-foot power catamaran that combines
first-class comfort with exhilarating cruising speeds to many
spectacular locations along the South Kona Coast. Features
include individual seats, freshwater showers, private restrooms,
expansive deck space and personalized service. The experienced,
lifeguard-certified crew makes your underwater journey fun,
safe and educational, with high-quality snorkel equipment.
Each expedition includes scrumptious refreshments.
Join Hula Kai on a journey you’ll never forget.
www.fair-wind.com
Kamanu Charters ( on Map 1, E-1) (808-329-2021).
Hop aboard the catamaran Kamanu for an uncrowded,
3½-hour adventure to Pawai Bay. Relax while you glide over
blue waters in quiet comfort as the breeze fills the sails of
Kona’s popular sailing catamaran. Snorkel amid multitudes of
rainbow-hued reef fish while looking for endangered sea turtles
and elusive manta and eagle rays. Explore the amazing under-
water terrain of coral-encrusted lava archways, ledges and
caves in the protected bay. A tropical lunch is included, with
complimentary beer, wine, juice and sodas. Departs daily at
9 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. from Honokohau Marina.
www.kamanu.com
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Ahuena Heiau
Photo by
Alberto Loyo /
Shutterstock.com
22 HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE March-June 2015
Kona Style ( on Map1-A, D-4) (808-936-1323). Explore
the majestic Kona Coastline while you sail through the rich
history of this sacred island onboard the Noa Noa, a 50-foot
sailing catamaran. Venture to “secret spots” to snorkel lush
coral gardens. Watch for tropical fish, turtles, dolphins, manta
rays and whales (seasonal). Delight in tropical fruit platters,
pastries, a deli-style lunch and an exotic cocktail from the
full bar. Enjoy the cool island breezes from the shaded cabin
or suspended over the ocean in a trampoline net on the
morning, afternoon and sunset adventures.
www.konasnorkelandsail.com
Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation ( on Map 2,
A-2; on Map 3, J-3) (808-345-6600). Two locations: GPS
731944 Hao St. in Kailua-Kona and GPS 797469 Hawaii Belt
Road in Kainaliu. This coffee is grown at the highest elevation
of any coffee in Hawaii, and on the largest organic coffee farm
in the state, as well. Come join the free daily tours, offered
every hour. You can also make an appointment for a VIP tour
or a “roast master for a day” class. On the VIP tours, see lava
tubes and green tea, cacao (chocolate) and vanilla growing.
Mountain Thunder offers Japanese tours Monday through
Friday or visit the café at the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel.
www.mountainthunder.com
Ocean Encounters ( on Map 1, E-1) (808-484-9150).
Have the encounter of a lifetime on a Kona coastline tour.
Join majestic dolphins in the water and see humpback whales
making their yearly migration to Kona. Witnessing these
exquisite creatures in their natural environment is something
you won’t soon forget. All Ocean Encounters include snacks
and drinks, snorkel gear, lights and wetsuits, with plenty of
shaded areas during the day, and a warm cabin for Manta Ray
Night Snorkel adventures. Ocean Encounters—sightings are
guaranteed, or you get another trip free.
www.SwimWithDolphinsAndMantas.com
Paradise Helicopters ( on Kona International Detail Map)
(866-876-7422). Enjoy unique, fun and flexible air adventures
across Hawaii Island. Feel the volcanic power of lava and ride
with the doors off or hover next to 2,000-foot waterfalls as
you photograph the remote beauty of the rain-forest valleys
and green-sand beach. These helicopter tours offer diverse
adventure options. Whether you are departing from Kona or
Hilo on Hawaii Island, or from its exclusive helipad on the
North Shore of Oahu, Paradise has exceptional pilots and
awesome aircraft ready to show you all the amazing things
there are to see in Hawaii. This is one flight you will remember
for a lifetime.
www.paradisecopters.com
Seahorse Farm ( on Map 1, B-1) (808-329-6840). See the
world’s only living and breeding gene bank of seahorses and
sea dragons on fun, educational and interactive tours. Explore
8
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1
4
1
1
Explore
Enjoy
Dining:
Dairy Queen / Orange Julius
Genki Sushi
McDonalds
Panda Express
Subway
Taco Del Mar
Ultimate Burger
Services:
AT&T
Bank of Hawaii
Century 21 All Islands
Go Wireless
Supercuts
Trixx Beauty Salon
T-Mobile - Coming Soon
Shopping:
Hawaiian Island Creations
Jeans Warehouse
Office Max
Petco
Ross Dress for Less
Sports Authority
The Vitamin Shoppe
Target
Kona’s destination for
SHOPPING DINING&
www.konacommons.com
Located at 74-5450 Makala Blvd
Gateway to Historic Kailua Village
Kona
the science and solutions for ocean conservation on the
3-acre, oceanfront seahorse farm that is home to more than
30 endangered species. Great for families and all ages.
www.seahorse.com
Sea Paradise ( on Map 1, I-2) (808-322-2500). A “must
do” says the Travel Channel. Depart from Keauhou Bay
aboard the luxurious Hokuhele, a 50-foot sailing catamaran.
Enjoy a tropical-style breakfast while cruising along the Kona
Coast to Kealakekua Bay, a marine preserve and home of the
Captain Cook Monument. Snorkel the pristine waters of the
bay, known to locals as the finest snorkeling on the Big Island.
After your snorkel adventure, dine on a sumptuous deli
buffet lunch. From Kelakekua Bay, head to Red Hill for more
snorkeling or just relaxation. At night, visit “Manta Village”
and see the magnificent manta rays up close.
www.seaparadise.com
11
Sea Quest Rafting ( on
Map 1, J-1) (808-329-
7238). Sea Quest has been
snorkeling the Kona Coast
since 1988. It specializes in
small groups and narrow sea
caves to provide its guests
unique and intimate
snorkeling adventures in one of the most unusual and beautiful
places on Earth. Because it departs from Keauhou Bay, the closest
harbor to the best snorkel sites on the island, it is able to offer
three different snorkel tours to multiple snorkel sites and
different experiences designed to fit anyone’s budget or sense of
adventure. It also offers a unique wild-dolphin swim combined
with a coral-reef snorkel tour that includes a deli lunch.
www.seaquesthawaii.com
Snorkel Bob’s Kona ( on Map 1, F-1; on Map 1-A,
C-5) (808-329-0770). “Only I, Snorkel Bob, have Snorkel Bob
Brand Masks, including the SEAMO™ and the SEAMO BETTA™
if you need Rx lenses. The Bubba snorkels drain splash water,
block backwash and clear easy as ptuey!” What’s more? Boogie-
boards, beach chairs and 24-HOUR INTERISLAND EXPRESS
GEAR RETURN. SB’s 250-page fish photography book, Every
Fish Tells a Story, is $7.50 with a snorkel set for the week (reg.
$28). Book two seats on most activities and get a FREE boogie-
board or turtle beach bag for the week (reg. $26). All island
locations open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Located off Alii Drive,
behind the Royal Kona Resort. Voted “Best Snorkeling
Company” by Hawaii Magazine readers.
www.snorkelbob.com
12
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Photocourtesyof
SeaQuestRafting
OFF PER
COUPLE!$20when you call direct and
mention this ad.
CALL 329-RAFT
Cannot be combined with
other discounts.
Snorkeling Kona Since 1988!
Swim with Wild Dolphins
PLUS Snorkel Kealakekua Bay(conditions permitting)
Tropical Snacks PLUS Deli Lunch
Explore the Kona Coastline & Watch for Whales
Check In 8:00 AM Depart 8:15 AM Return 1:15 PM
DOLPHIN ENCOUNTER LUNCH
5HOURS
SHADE
DOLPHIN
SWIM
SNORKEL
SITES
LUNCH
5HOURS
3
SHADE
EXPEDITION SOUTH KONA
CAPTAIN COOK EXPRESS
NIGHT MANTA EXPERIENCE
Snorkel Kealakekua Bay (Capt. Cook Monument)
Afternoon Tour & Great for Beginners
Tropical Snacks
Sea Caves, Lava Tubes, Look for Dolphins & Whales
Check In 12:30 PM Depart 12:45 PM Return 3:45 PM
Night Snorkel with Wild Manta Rays
Kona Sunset from the Water
Snacks and Hot Chocolate
Check In Time Varies Seasonally
SNACKS
1.5HOURS
AT NIGHT
www.SeaQuestHawaii.comwww.SeaQuestHawaii.com
DELUXE MORNING ADVENTURE
Snorkel Kealakekua Bay (Capt. Cook Monument)
Snorkel Honaunau Bay (Place of Refuge)
Tropical Snacks
Sea Caves, Lava Tubes, Look for Dolphins & Whales
Check In 7:45 AM Depart 8:00 AM Return at Noon
Snorkel Kealakekua & Honaunau Bays
Bonus Third Snorkel Site (Location Varies)
Tropical Snacks PLUS Deli Lunch
Sea Caves, Lava Tubes, Look for Dolphins & Whales
Check In 8:00 AM Depart 8:15 AM Return 1:15 PM
Snorkeling Konna Since 1988!
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Indich Collection’s Hawaiian Rugs ( on Map 1-A, C-2)
(808-329-6500). Inspired by the beauty and culture of Hawaii, it
offers a unique selection of floral designs as well as tropical foliage
and petroglyph-inspired rugs. Persian and decorative carpets in
wool and silk are also offered. Worldwide shipping. Open daily
in Kailua-Kona in the Kona Industrial Park at 74-5599 Luhia St.
www.hawaiianrugs.com
Kona Bay Books ( on Map 1-A, C-1) (808-326-7790)
( on Map 5, C-5) (808-935-9234). Located at 74-5487
Kaiwi St. and, in Hilo, 829-A Leilani St. Residents know this
is where to shop for used books, CDs and DVDs at a fraction
of retail prices. Open daily 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
www.konabaybooks.com
Kona Commons ( on Map 1, E-1; on Map 1-A, C-1).
Located at 74-5450 Makala Blvd. Kona Commons is a premier
shopping destination with great shops such as Target, Jeans
Warehouse, Hawaiian Island Creations, Ross Dress for Less,
Sports Authority and Petco. Stop in for a bite at Panda
Express, Ultimate Burger, Genki Sushi and more.
www.konacommons.com
KTA Super Stores ( on Map 1, I-2 ; on Map 1-A, B-2)
(808-322-2311; 808-329-1677) KTA Super Stores is ready to satis-
fy all your vacation needs with six locations in Hilo, Kona, Waimea
and Waikoloa. Find meals to go, beer, wine, Hawaii coffee and gifts,
beach supplies and more at KTA, serving the Big Island since 1916.
www.ktasuperstores.com
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26 HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE March-June 2015
Kona
Sunlight on Water ( on Map 1, E-1) (808-896-2480). Ever
dreamed of swimming with free dolphins in their natural habitat?
Or swimming with manta rays at night? Kona is one of the few
places you can experience both, which have been voted two of
the top-10 activities in Hawaii. Sunlight on Water offers after-
noon snorkel trips to the pristine waters of Kealakekua Bay, the
best coral reef in Hawaii. All gear, snacks, drinks and photos
provided on all activities. The lifeguard-certified crew will be
your swim guides. Book two or more trips and save!
www.SunlightOnWater.com
4
Bite Me Fish Market Bar & Grill ( on
Map 1, E-1) (808-327-3474 (FISH). Located
in Honokohau Harbor, 74-425 Kealakehe
Parkway, No. 17, near the airport. Not
many restaurants can say they catch their
own fish; however, Bite Me is not like other
restaurants. Hidden away in the Honokohau Harbor, Bite Me
is known for its affordable, tasty tacos, friendly staff, cold beer,
fine wines and freshly caught Island fish. Hawaii’s best-kept
secret isn’t going to stay secret for long, so come on in and
grab a bite today. It has the freshest fish and chips you’ll
find anywhere.
www.bitemefishmarket.com
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. ( on Map 1-A, D-5) (808-331-
8442). Located on Alii Drive in Kailua-Kona. Bubba Gump
Shrimp Co. captures the charm and American spirit that
made Forrest Gump a smash hit. Bubba Gump is famous for
shrimp, any way you like it, friendly service and an entertain-
ing, down-home atmosphere. Shrimp is the specialty, but
in this fun, casual setting there is definitely something for
everyone. From award-winning ribs to out-of-this-world
seafood dishes and, of course, remarkable desserts, you’re
sure to go home happy.
www.bubbagump.com
Daylight Mind Coffee Co. ( on Map 1-A, D-5) (808-339-
7824). Located in Waterfront Row at 75-5770 Alii Drive. Visit
the premier oceanside location for locally sourced cuisine and
extraordinary coffee, freshly roasted on site. Whether you’re
interested in sitting down to a satisfying meal, exploring the
nuanced world of coffee or delighting in artisanal bread, you will
enjoy the beautiful, two-story loft, where you can learn and relax.
www.daylightmind.com
Kona Brewing Co. ( on Map 1-A, D-1) (808-334-BREW,
808-334-2739). Located on Kuakini Highway, minutes from
downtown. Enjoy a huge selection of Hawaii’s best craft ales,
lagers and fresh local cuisine. Daily tours and tastings are
offered. Extensive gift shop. Open for lunch and dinner daily.
www.konabrewingco.com
4
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2
LET’S
EAT
Outback Steakhouse Kona ( on Map 1, F-2; on Map
1-A, D-5) (808-326-2555). Located in the Coconut Grove
Marketplace. Every day, Outback starts fresh to create the
flavors the mates crave. Best known for grilled steaks, chicken
and local fresh fish of the highest quality, Outback also offers a
wide variety of crisp salads and freshly made soups and sides.
Open for dinner 4 to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday, lunch
and dinner 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
www.outback.com
Patricio’s Mexican Taqueria ( on Map 1-A, B-2; on
Map 1, C-2) (808-334-1000 and 808-334-1008). Located in
the Kona Coast Shopping Center, 74-5586 Palani Road, next
to Payless Shoes and at Matsuyama’s Shopping Center,
73-4038 Hulikoa Drive, next to Kona Mountain Coffee. This
authentic Mexican taqueria features food made from scratch,
often with local ingredients from Big Island farmers. Patricio’s
is known for delicious food at affordable prices, homemade
salsas, cold beer, sangria and daily specials. Mexican cuisine
is made with fresh, healthy, natural ingredients and home-
made recipes. Patricio’s is a casual, family-friendly restaurant
that offers dining in as well as takeout.
www.patriciostaqueria.com
7 15
5 2
LET’S
SHOP
Photocourtesyof
IndichCollection’sHawaiianRugs
*The Travel Channel called it -
“The Hottest
Helicopter Ride
on Earth!”
*The Travel Channel called it -
“The Hottest
Helicopter Ride
on Earth!”
Hawai‘i’s Most Unique
Landing Adventures
Hawai‘i Island’s ONLY True
Circle Island Helicopter Tour
Exclusive!
DOORS-OFF*
over K lauea Volcano
Departing from Kona, Hilo
and the North Shore of O‘ahu
808-969-7392
www.paradisecopters.com
Departs from Hilo
Departs from Kona
Departs from Kona
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as Hawai‘i Is
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d
Sh
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s
p i h
U
i
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SEAFOOD PLATTER PLATE
OPEN 10AM – 9PM
HONOKOHAU
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808-327-FISH (3474)
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See Map 1, E-1
• ALWAYS-LOCAL FRESH
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YOU CAN SIT AT THE
DINING BAR AND WATCH
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MARKET & KITCHEN.
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ậ
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Kaahumanu Hwy.
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AIRPORT
KONA
k
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FREE 8X10 Photo of yourcaught fish over 20lbs.
WE WILL
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2011 “BEST OF THE NORTH & WEST HAWAII NEWS”
2012 “CERTIFICATE OF EXCELLENCE FOR BEST FISHING CHARTER ”
KIDS OF ALL AGES WELCOME!
1/2, 3/4, FULL DAY & SHARE CHARTERS
Tim’s Awesome
Smoke Fish Dip
Dine in Only. Must Present Coupon.
Cannot Be Combined. 7-20-2015
Dine in Only. Must Present Coupon.
Cannot Be Combined. 7-20-2015
Dine in Only. Must Present Coupon.
Cannot Be Combined. 7-20-2015
1/2 POUND
Peel and
eat Shrimp
1/2 POUND
Snow Crab legs
boiled potatoes
corn on the cob
HDG HDG HDG
30 HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE March-June 2015
South
Kona
in house, from sauces and dressings to desserts. Enjoy a
cocktail or an ice-cold draft beer at the new full bar or on the
beautiful ocean-view lanai. Open daily 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
www.anniesislandfreshburgers.com
Rays on the Bay Restaurant ( on Map 1, J-2) (808-930-
4949). Located at the Sheraton Kona Resort and Spa at
Keauhou Bay, 78-128 Ehukai St., Kailua-Kona. The coast’s
coolest dining hot spot is perched on lava cliffs so close to the
ocean, you’ll have the world’s only tableside view of giant
manta rays, spectacular sunsets and delicious, Island-inspired
cuisine. Signature cocktails and the ice-cold beer all served
with live, local entertainment nightly.
www.RaysontheBay.com
Donkey Balls Store and Factory ( on
Map 2, A-2) (808-322-1475). Located 8
miles south of Kona, in Kainaliu. Visit the
original Donkey Balls factory, featuring
Donkey Balls, Goat Balls, more than 70
chocolate confections, Hawaiian-made
treats and gifts. Sample Donkey Balls’ gourmet chocolate and
100-percent Kona coffees. See your chocolate made daily,
from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
www.donkeyballstore.com
Kimura Fabrics ( on Map 2, A-2) (808-322-3771) This
cheery, old-fashioned general store in the heart of Kainaliu has
been in business for more than 70 years, specializing in every
brand of pattern, with one of the state’s largest selections of
fabrics, including batiks and imported silks. Open Monday
through Saturday 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
13
2
1
InKeauhou,at the end of Alii Drive,
Kamehameha III Road connects with
Highway 11, which heads south into Kona
coffee country through the towns of
Kealakekua and Captain Cook (see Map 2,
South Kona). Set aside some time to explore
St. Benedict’s Painted Church ( on Map 2,
E-3) and Puuhonua o Honaunau ( on Map 2,
E-1), an important historical site where you
can learn a great deal about Hawaiian culture.
Greenwell Farms Estate Coffee ( on
Map 2, B-1) (888-592-5662). Producing
only 100-percent pure Kona coffee, this
estate is situated on 35 acres of prime land
at an elevation of 1,500 feet. A family-
owned business since 1850, it continues
to maintain a tradition of high quality, which can be tasted
in every cup of Greenwell Estate Coffee. Open daily 8:30 a.m.
to 5 p.m.
www.greenwellfarms.com
Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation ( on Map 2, A-2;
on Map 3, J-3) (808-345-6600). Two locations: GPS
731944 Hao St. in Kailua-Kona and GPS 797469 Hawaii Belt
Road in Kainaliu. This coffee is grown at the highest elevation
of any coffee in Hawaii, and on the largest organic coffee farm
in the state, as well. Come join the free daily tours, offered
every hour. You can also make an appointment for a VIP tour
or a “roast master for a day” class. On the VIP tours, see lava
tubes and green tea, cacao (chocolate) and vanilla growing.
Mountain Thunder offers Japanese tours Monday through
Friday or visit the café at the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel.
www.mountainthunder.com
Paleaku Peace Gardens Botanical Sanctuary ( on
Map 2, D-3) (808-328-8084). Located at 83-5401 Painted
Church Road in Captain Cook. This hidden treasure of
tropical beauty is Paleaku, a 7-acre botanical garden with a
unique collection of rare plants and exotic flowers. Stroll on
easy paths and view ancient petroglyphs, a labyrinth and
the world’s first astronomy garden of the Milky Way. Open
Tuesday through Saturday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday by
appointment only. Affordable admission.
www.paleaku.com
Annie’s Island Fresh Burgers ( on
Map 2, A-2) (808-324-6000). Located
eight miles south of Kona in the Mango
Court Center. Annie’s serves gourmet burg-
ers, salads, fresh fish, desserts and vegetari-
an treats. Only Big Island, grass-fed beef is
used, and as much local and organic produce as possible,
much from its own on-site garden. Annie’s makes everything
8
7
5
4
1
6
3
LET’S
PLAY
LET’S
EAT
LET’S
SHOP
This national historical park, which has been restored to
the way it looked prior to the 1700s, is the ideal place
to travel back in time for a glimpse of life in ancient
Hawaii. Designated by early Hawaiians as a puuhonua (place
of refuge), Honaunau was an oasis along the shoreline to which
defeated warriors and kapu-breakers could flee, avoiding death.
Today, visitors to the park can take self-guided tours, as well
as listen to an orientation by park rangers in the amphitheater,
to learn about the historical significance of the refuge.
PuuhonuaoHonaunau
OceanImagePhotography/Shutterstock.com
HawaiiIslandRecommendedBeaches
HOW TO BE A SMART TRAVELER:
When you are having fun on your vacation, it’s easy to let your guard down. Here in Hawaii,
even paradise has its bad apples, so there are some common-sense precautions to keep in mind:
Never carry excess cash and never lock any valuables, such as cameras, in your rental car. Never
swim at a beach alone and, wherever possible, select beaches with a lifeguard. Never leave your
valuables unattended on the beach. Keep all valuables in the hotel safe, or in a safe place. In
general, conduct yourself as you would back home. In the event of any emergency, you can dial
911 from any pay phone without depositing any money.
STILL NEED HELP?
The Visitor Aloha Society of Hawaii (VASH) was created to “Share the Aloha” of our Island home
with visitors affected by crime, accidents, medical emergencies and other adversities. After filing
a police report, VASH services are provided on Oahu: 808-926-8274, Maui: 808-244-3530,
Kauai: 808-482-0111, and the Big Island, Hilo: 808-756-1472 Kona: 808-756-0785.
Don’t bury your head in the
sand—be safe and take your
valuables with you.
32 HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE March-June 2015
KONA
Honokohau      63
Kahalu’u Beach Park        63
Kuki’o Beach     68
Old Airport Rec. Area       65
Kealakekua Bay     66
White Sands Beach Park        66
KOHALA
Anaeho’omalu Beach        68
Hapuna State Beach        68
Spencer Beach Park        68
Lapakahi State Historic     71
Keokea Beach Park     71
HAMAKUA
Laupahoehoe Point Park     72
Kolekole Beach Park     72
HILO
Coconut Island Park      74
Reeds Bay Park    74
Onekahakaha Beach Park        74
PUNA-KA’U
Isaac Hale Beach Park    12
MacKenzie State Rec. Area   12
Punalu’u Beach Park       77
Whittington Park   77
swimming
snorkeling
restrooms
freshwater
parking
sandybeach
lifeguard
mappage
A
s the youngest in the Hawaiian chain, the Hawaii Island is in
a growing phase, with active volcanoes that add real estate
to the southern shoreline as lava flows into the sea. And
while many areas of the island are still covered with jagged lava,
the west side of the island is home to many top-ranked white sandy
beaches. You’ll also find black, gray and green sand beaches as
well as oceanfront parks all around the island to enjoy.
Hapuna State Beach
$9/Week
Captain Cook
Snorkel Trips
Rx Masks
24 Hour Interisland
Gear Return
FREE Boogie Board when you book 2 seats on most activities.
Kailua-Kona 329-0770
Kohala/Waikoloa 885-9499 @ The Shops at Mauna Lani
SB Kailua-Kona
SB Mauna Lani
PhotosbyBrettUprichard;MarisaEstivill/Shutterstock.com
Kohala
TopDriveGuidePicks
Located on the sunny Kohala Coast, HAPUNA BEACH gets high marks as one of America’s finest beaches, graced with white sand, lots
of sun and pristine waters. I PAGE 36
POLOLU VALLEY, which equals
nearby Waipio Valley’s natural
grandeur, features a scenic look-
out and a relatively easy hike
down to the beach. I PAGE 38
KAPAAU’S claim to fame—
besides its small-town charm—is
being home to the original statue
of King Kamehameha, located on
Highway 270. I PAGE 37
34 HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE March-June 2015
Make A Difference
Be Inspired and
Reinvigorate your connection to the ocean
while swimming with dolphins and
supporting vital marine conservation.
Learn More dolphinquest.com
A portion of the proceeds supports vital marine education,
conservation and research.
Kohala
Kamuela
Photo by Brett Uprichard
Kohala is a land of contrasts. Often referred to as “the
gold coast,” the area between Kona and North
Kohala is home to the island’s best white-sand beaches
and some of the finest hotels in the world. Kohala is also a land
of lush green hills, cattle ranches and the Kohala Mountain
Range. Although primarily known for its beaches (including
world-famous Hapuna Beach) and nearly perfect weather,
there are multitudes of other daytime activities to enjoy here:
Shop the unique stores and boutiques or go for a horseback
ride; hike and explore the historical sites or take an aerial tour
of the beautiful Kohala landscape. After a day in the sun,
visitors can enjoy a spectacular sunset and take the drive north
for a delicious dinner at one of the many fine restaurants in
Hawi, Kawaihae and Waimea.
Among the points of interest are Puukohola Heiau
( on Map 3, C-1) and Lapakahi State Historical
Park ( on Map 3-A, B-1). Puukohola Heiau is the
sacred Hawaiian site where Kamehameha made initial
moves to unite the Hawaiian Islands, which he eventually
accomplished just before the turn of the 19th century.
At Lapakahi State Historical Park, visitors can experience
what life was like for the average Hawaiian commoner
during Kamehameha’s day. This re-creation of a seaside
village offers a unique peek into Hawaii’s past.
Some of Hawaii’s best beaches are in this area, including
Anaehoomalu Beach Park ( on Map 3, F-1) and
Hapuna Beach State Recreation Center ( on Map 3,
C-1). Hapuna Beach has been rated among the top 10
beaches in the world, noted for its sandy beach, usually
calm waters and sunny weather.
For a trip back in time, we recommend the wonderful
drive to Pololu Valley Lookout ( on Map 3-A, B-3).
There are two ways to reach the northernmost coastline of
the Big Island: the lower seaside road or the upper road
through the mountains. The coastal route (Highway 270)
through Kawaihae offers beautiful views of the ocean and
tiny secret beaches, and along the way you can often see
12
3
4
11
9
SEE MAPS ON PAGES 68 & 71
PhotosbyAnnaAbramskaya/Shutterstock.com;BrettUprichard
36 HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE March-June 2015
LET’S PLAY Tee up for 18 holes of
spectacular golf, snorkel in pristine
waters, have the adventure of a lifetime on
a thrilling zipline course.
LET’S EAT Fresh Big Island fish,
passion-fruit margaritas, dreamy Kona
coffee and barbecued steaks are just a few
of the amazing selections.
LET’S SHOP Incredible shopping
possibilities are offered up in Kohala,
from world-class resort boutiques to fun
art galleries that have taken up residence
in historic rustic buildings.
HAPUNA BEACH
STATE RECREATION CENTER
This is a perfect beach for the entire family, with great
sunbathing, turquoise waters, a white-sand beach and
convenient tree shade when you’ve had enough sun.
During the times the surf is up, locals come here to enjoy
bodysurfing. Always check with on-duty lifeguards for
current water conditions.
the island of Maui and Mount Haleakala rising in the
distance. Highway 250 is a picturesque, winding road that
runs upland from Waimea through the Kohala Mountains
to the quaint towns of Hawi and Kapaau, home to the
historic statue of King Kamehameha the Great ( on
Map 3-A, A-2). Take along your cameras to capture shots
of the valley. There are some fun shops and casual dining
spots in both towns, or you can bring along your own
fixings and enjoy a picnic at Keokea Beach Park ( on
Map 3-A, A-3).
One of the best ways to see the inaccessible
part of this region is via Blue Hawaiian
Helicopters ( on Map 3, E-2) (808-
961-5600). Blue Hawaiian has a track
record of leadership and the finest pilots,
with state-of-the-art aircraft, including the
all-new, ultra-quiet, ultra-spacious, 21st-century “Eco-Star,”
a Blue Hawaiian first. The company was the first in the U.S.
to be certified under the rigorous TOPS program for tour
helicopter safety. It has a four-camera digital video system
and Bose® electronic, noise-cancelling headsets for every
guest. Every year since 1998, it has been awarded the FAA’s
prestigious “Diamond Certificate of Excellence.” Departures
from Hilo and Waikoloa.
www.bluehawaiian.com
Dolphin Quest ( on Map 3, E-1) (808-886-2875). Located
at the spectacular Hilton Waikoloa Village. Enjoy the magical
world of dolphins with fun educational programs that allow
you to touch, swim with and even kiss a dolphin. Call and
make a reservation today.
www.dolphinquest.com
Hamakua Macadamia Nut Co. ( on Map 3, B-2; on
Map 3-A, D-2) (808-882-1690). Located in sunny Kawaihae,
at 61-3251 Maluokalani St., off Highway 270. Hamakua
Macadamia Nut Co. has been creating mouth-watering,
flavored macadamia nuts since 1998, including the original
wasabi and, yes, Spam-flavored macadamia nuts. Stop in
for a guided tour, to shop for gifts, enjoy free samples of
flavored macadamia nuts and chocolates and a complimentary
cup of 100-percent Kona, Ka‘u or Hilo coffee while you
observe the processing of macadamia nuts. Friendly, fun
staff, great customer service and lots of aloha! Open daily
9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
www.HawnNut.com
7
8
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5
214
LET’S
PLAY
www.hawaiidriveguides.com 37
KAPAAU
The North Kohala Coast is a
wonderfully quiet region with
charming small towns, including
Hawi and Ka-
paau, home to
the original King
Kamehameha statue.
The famous statue was
cast in Italy in the late 1800s,
but was lost at sea en route
to Hawaii. Eventually it was
salvaged off the Falkland Is-
lands and brought here, not
far from his birthplace. Ka-
paau was fortunate to receive
the original statue because a
replacement statue had al-
ready been erected across
from Iolani Palace in historic
Honolulu. On Kamehameha
Day, a holiday celebrated
statewide, Kapaau honors the
great king’s birth with a parade
through the town.
Kohala Zipline ( on Map 3-A, A-2) (808-331-3620).
Located in Hawi, at 55-5515 Hawi Road. Join Kohala Zipline
for a canopy experience like no other. Nine ziplines, five sky
bridges and a rappel—all submerged in a rain-forest canopy
above the historic lands of King Kamehameha—make this
Hawaii’s only world-class aerial trekking course. Whether
you’re a zipline enthusiast or first-time adventure seeker,
this is truly an unforgettable experience.
www.kohalazipline.com
Makalei Golf Club ( on Map 3, I-2) (808-325-6625).
This beautiful 18-hole championship course overlooks the
Kona-Kohala Coast from the slopes of Hualalai, offering a
cool, woodland golf experience. The course features challenging
play, panoramic views and nesting areas for wildlife, including
more than 100 wild peacocks. Voted West Hawaii’s “Best
Golf Course” in West Hawaii Today’s Annual Readers’ Choice
Awards, and a four-star rating in Golf Digest’s 2008/2009
and 2013 “Best Places to Play.”
www.makalei.com
Snorkel Bob’s Kohala ( on Map 3, D-1) (808-885-9499).
“Only I, Snorkel Bob, have Snorkel Bob Brand Masks, including
the SEAMO™ and the SEAMO BETTA™ if you need Rx
lenses. The Bubba snorkels drain splash water, block back-
wash and clear easy as ptuey!” What’s more? Boogie boards,
beach chairs and 24-HOUR INTERISLAND EXPRESS GEAR
RETURN. SB’s 250-page fish photography book, Every Fish
Tells a Story, is $7.50 with a snorkel set for the week (reg. $28).
Book two seats on most activities and get a FREE boogie
board or turtle beach bag for the week (reg. $26). All island
locations open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Near Waikoloa/Kohala
in The Shops at Mauna Lani. Voted “Best Snorkeling
Company” by Hawaii Magazine readers.
www.snorkelbob.com
For a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, check out Star Gaze
Hawaii ( on Map 3, C-2) (reservations 808-323-3481).
Take a guided tour of the universe in your shorts and aloha
shirt from the comfort of sea level at regularly scheduled
stargazing sessions at the Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel, Hilton
Waikoloa Village and Fairmont Orchid. Reservations are
required. Please leave a call-back number. (See coupon page
for special offer.)
www.stargazehawaii.com
Waikoloa Village Golf ( on Map 3, D-3) (808-883-9621
for 24-hour reservations). A Robert Trent Jones Jr.-designed
course, Waikoloa Village Golf Club features generous fairways
and well-guarded greens. Located approximately at an
800-foot elevation, golfers are treated to spectacular views of
five volcanoes and the Kohala coastline. Situated in an arid
location, which virtually assures favorable playing conditions
2
9
10
8
5
365 days per year, Waikoloa Village Golf Club is an Island
favorite not to be missed.
www.waikoloavillagegolf.com
Bamboo Restaurant ( on Map 3-A,
A-2) (808-889-5555). Hawi, at the junction
of Highways 250 and 270, North Kohala.
Zagat rates it “Excellent,” “Most Popular”
and “Best Bang for Your Buck.” Also voted
“Best Restaurant on the Big Island,” featuring
innovative and affordable Island-style cuisine and local
Hawaiian favorites. Bamboo serves grass fed, Big Island burgers
and steaks, free-range chicken, and local, organic produce.
Relax in the historic building and lush, tropical atmosphere as
you enjoy a passion fruit margarita or mojito—invented here!
Your server may dance the hula at any time. Closed Sunday
night and Monday.
www.bamboorestaurant.info
Blue Dragon Coastal Cuisine and Musiquarium ( on
Map 3, B-2; Map 3-A, E-2) (808-882-7771). Located
in Kawaihae on Highway 270, across from Kawaihae Harbor.
Enjoy award-winning coastal cuisine, wonderful live
entertainment and dancing under the stars. “Fabulous
food, scintillating live music . . . it’s the kind of dining
experience everyone hopes to find,” according to a popular
Big Island magazine. Open Thursday through Sunday
5:30 p.m. till closing.
www.bluedragonhawaii.com
Kohala Coffee Mill ( on Map 3-A, B-2) (808-889-5577).
Located in Hawi. Known for the best mochas on the island,
the mill serves 100-percent Kona coffee and unique house
blends, a wide selection of black, green and herbal teas,
smoothies, gluten-free treats, bagels, memorable Hawaiian
gifts and gourmet products. A great stop for breakfast or
lunch and also a large selection of Tropical Dreams ice
cream. Check out the delicious homemade Hawaiian
fudge with flavors such as passion fruit and chocolate
macadamia nut. Also serving, at its finest, North Shore
Shave Ice made with natural syrups. Free Wi-Fi. Open
Monday through Friday 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday and
Sunday 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
4
13
1
6
Kohala
LET’S
EAT
38 HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE March-June 2015
POLOLU VALLEY
O
ne of Hawaii Island’s most scenic valleys,
Pololu was carved out of the steep coastline
of North Kohala. The scenic lookout is
located at the end of the road, beyond Kapaau. A rela-
tively short hike downhill reveals a striking black-sand
beach and often stormy surf. There are no lifeguards,
so check with folks who are familiar with the current
conditions if you wish to enter the water.
MarisaEstivill/Shutterstock.com
Your Guide to
808.331.3620 kohalazipline.com808.331.3635 hawaii-forest.com
Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park / Daytime or Twilight • Canopy Zipline
Adventures • Private Waterfalls • Coffee Tours • Big Island Highlights &
Culture • Rainforest & Birding • Maunakea Summit • Choose Your Own
Adventure / Private & Custom
Gaze into the summit of the world’s most active volcano. Soar through
a tropical rainforest. Explore hidden waterfalls. Uncover rich history and a
vibrant culture. Whatever Big Island journey you seek, our expert guides
pave the way for your personal Hawaiian adventure.
Full & Half-Day Adventures | All Inclusive & Award Winning
INGREDIENTS FOR A
PERFECT VACATION
H
ave a unique adventure, eat to your heart’s content and
walk off the extra calories with shopping offered nowhere
else on Earth. Now that’s a holiday!
Here on the golden coastline of Kohala, where sunny days and
glorious weather are unmatched, all the ingredients for a memo-
rable vacation are in place. Consider just a few of the options:
wake early for a deep-sea fishing adventure, then reward yourself
with a fresh fish lunch (even if it’s not your own personal catch
of the day). Next, stretch your legs with some window shopping
at one of the classy venues along this coast, including Queens’
MarketPlace, Kings’ Shops and the Shops at Mauna Lani. Finish
your day with sunset libations and romantic fine dining.
There are lots of other options: swimming with dolphins,
world-class golf, free Polynesian entertainment and a 4-D
Hawaii-themed theater. Check out the gourmet markets and
Hawaiian craft shops (including one with collectible ukuleles),
or pamper yourself by getting your nails done. Meander past koi
ponds, enjoy free local music and go snorkeling at one of the
nearby beaches.
Locals and visitors alike love to spend time at these
attractive centers updating their stylish wardrobes, with every-
thing from the latest beachwear to world-class fashions. Pick up
an aloha shirt, a colorful muumuu and fun T-shirts for the
youngsters.
When it comes to food, fun and aloha, Hawaii Island—and
the Kohala Coast in particular—makes your holiday an experi-
ence to remember forever.
The Shops at Mauna Lani
Queens’ MarketPlace
40 HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE March-June 2015
Healthways II ( on Map 3-B, C-3)
(808-885-6775). Locally owned, it offers
fresh organic produce (locally grown
whenever possible), herbs and grains. The
grocery department includes many gluten-
free items. Healthy breakfast and lunch
menus are offered daily, including fresh juices and smoothies,
using mostly organic products from the in-store deli. It proudly
offers a wide selection of supplements and bodycare items.
Open Monday through Saturday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sunday
9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
2
Kohala
LET’S
SHOP
Mountain Thunder Café at the Honu Bar ( on Map 3,
E-2) (808-885-1480). Located at the Honu Bar at Mauna Lani
Bay Hotel. Enjoy 100-percent Kona coffee straight from the
Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation: cappuccino, lattes,
frappes and espresso. Also come by and enjoy breakfast or
lunch, have a glass of wine or local beer, and do some
shopping for the folks back home with all the great Mountain
Thunder products right there at the café, farm direct. Stop
by and take the farm tour.
www.mountainthunder.com
Ruth’s Chris Steak House ( on Map 3, D-1) (808-887-
0800). Located at The Shops at Mauna Lani, 68-1330 Mauna
Lani Drive, on the Kohala Coast. At Ruth’s Chris Steak House,
you’ll always find exceptional steaks, selected from the top
2 percent of the country’s beef—broiled in 1,800-degree ovens
and served sizzling hot on 500-degree plates, so every bite is
hot and delicious. This New Orleans-inspired cuisine features
the finest USDA prime steaks, fresh Island seafood, an award-
winning wine list and a variety of appetizers, side dishes and
desserts. An Island favorite. Just follow the sizzle to Ruth’s
Chris Steak House.
www.ruthschrishawaii.co
7
9
PhotocourtesyofRuth’sChrisSteakHouse
KTA Super Stores ( on Map 3-B, B-2) (808-885-8866).
KTA Super Stores is ready to supply all your vacation needs
with six locations in Hilo, Kona, Waimea and Waikoloa. Find
meals to go, beer, wine, Hawaii coffee and gifts, beach sup-
plies and more at KTA, serving the Big Island since 1916.
www.ktasuperstores.com
Queens’ MarketPlace ( on Map 3, F-2) (808-886-8822).
Located in the beautiful Waikoloa Beach Resort. If you’re
searching for special gifts to take home, check out the hidden
gems at the Queens’ MarketPlace. You’ll find shopping, din-
ing, entertainment and activities at “The Gathering Place of
the Kohala Coast.” Open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
www.QueensMarketPlace.net
The Shops at Mauna Lani ( on Map 3, D-1) (808-885-
9501). In the heart of the Kohala Coast, The Shops at Mauna
Lani is the place for dining, art, shopping and entertainment.
Find that special gift and wonderful dining at some of the best
shops and restaurants on the island. The Shops at Mauna Lani
offers the perfect balance between brand-name quality and
unique local craftsmanship. You will find the only 4D Adventure
Ride movie theater in the state, as well as Foodland Farms, a full-
service gourmet market complete with deli and bakery. The free
Polynesian hula shows feature amazing fire dancing every Monday
and Thursday at 7 p.m. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
www.TheShopsAtMaunaLani.com
The Gallery at Bamboo ( on Map 3-A, A-2) (808-889-
1441). Located inside Bamboo Restaurant in historic Hawi
Town, sip a lilikoi margarita as you enjoy this colorful, fun
and affordable gallery. The gallery features local artists in silk,
oils, watercolors and pencil, Hawaiian and Pacific handcrafts,
jewelry, wall art, kitchen items and books. The eclectic gallery
offers handmade
Hawaiian soaps and
lotions, a large selection
of Hawaiian quilts,
Hawaiian koa wood
pieces and other one-
of-a-kind items from
the Islands. The Gallery
at Bamboo has plenty
of T-shirts and boasts
one of the largest
collections of adult
and children’s aloha
shirts on the island.
Closed Monday.
3
9
4
1
Anaehoomalu Bay
Photo by Kuma / Shutterstock.com
PhotoscourtesyofTheGalleryatBamboo
42 HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE March-June 2015
Hamakua
TopDriveGuidePicks
An important and well-populated place in Hawaii’s earliest days, WAIPIO VALLEY is now home to a small community of farmers
who grow taro, an important staple in the Hawaiian diet. I PAGE 45
The ruggedly beautiful peninsula of LAUPAHOEHOE
was the site of a disastrous tsunami on April 1, 1946,
commemorated today by a memorial to those who
perished. I PAGE 45
PhotosbyBrettUprichard;DarrellIshii
HONOKAA TOWN is one of our favorite
small towns in the Hawaiian Islands, noted
for its quiet charm, creative little shops and
fun spots to grab a bite to eat. I PAGE 44
Hamakua
The Hamakua district is famous for its elevated
coastline, once covered with vast fields of sugar
cane that are today being replaced by a variety of
diversified crops, including world-class coffee and colorful
tropical plants. The fascinating heritage of the early
plantation days is still evident in towns like Honokaa and
Laupahoehoe, where a train museum transports you
back in time. Rugged gulches spanned by old railroad
bridges dot this wetter, windward side of the island, a
vibrant green jungle fed by streams and waterfalls flowing
down the sides of 13,796-foot Mauna Kea, the highest
point in the Hawaiian Islands. The grand effect of these
geological rumblings can be seen all along the coast, from
Waipio Valley south to Hilo along Highway 19. Save time
to explore the quiet charm of old Honokaa Town and
nearby villages, with plantation-era stores that keep
traditional Hawaiian arts alive.
SEE MAP ON PAGE 72
Key points of interest include Waipio Valley Lookout
( on Map 4, B-3), Kalopa State Park ( on Map
4, D-2), the 4-mile scenic drive past Onomea
Bay ( on Map 4, J-2) and Honokaa Town (Map 4, C-2).
Both the lookout and park are great places for midday picnic
lunches, or you can drop into Honokaa for a hot sit-down
meal, followed by some leisurely shopping in the quaint shops
of this former plantation town. Photo opportunities abound all
along the coast, where waterfalls and cliffs meet the sea.
Among the jewels of Onomea is Hawaii
Tropical Botanical Garden ( on
Map 4, J-3) (808-964-5233). Located at
Onomea Bay, 7 miles north of Hilo on the
4-mile scenic route. A tropical rainforest
nature preserve, the garden has more than
2,000 species of tropical flowers, plants and colorful birds, in-
cluding macaws. Waterfalls and streams wind throughout the
forest and palm jungle. The visitor center features a museum and
Garden Gift Shop. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Last entry
is at 4 p.m. Admission is charged; children 5 and under free.
www.hawaiigarden.com
RideTheRim ( on Map 4, B-2) (808-775-1450). The entire
family can have the adventure of a lifetime on a RideTheRim
ATV or buggy ride to the top of Waipio Valley. See the longest
black-sand beach and the tallest single-drop waterfall in the
state. Three-hour tours are offered twice daily, all with
knowledgeable, fun, local guides. Enjoy views into the valley,
explore the grotto and plunge into a lava tube, swim in the
headwaters of Hiilawe Falls and learn the area’s extraordinary
history, from ancient times to today. Enjoy snacks and beverages,
too. Get down, get dirty, RideTheRim of Waipio.
www.RideTheRim.com
2 3
9
8
1
LET’S
PLAY
44 HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE March-June 2015
Hamakua
LET’S PLAY Walk through a tropical
wonderland, ride the rim of Waipio on
an all-terrain vehicle, have a bucket-list
adventure on a thrilling zipline.
LET’S EAT Fruit—fresh from this
verdant land—healthy smoothies and
plantation-style plate lunches are among
the favorites in Hamakua.
LET’S SHOP Carved wooden art, some
of the world’s best coffee treats and other
Island keepsakes are some of the favorite
offerings on the vast Hamakua Coast.
PhotosbyBrettUprichard;DarrellIshii;Vacclav/Shutterstock.com;ZipIsleZipLineandSegwayToursatBotanicalWorld;
WorldBotanicalGardensatBotanicalWorldAdventures
HONOKAA
“Downtown” Honokaa is beauti-
ful in more ways than one. First,
it is historic, with old classics like
the People’s Theatre, which dates
back to the 1930s. Then there
is the quiet rural charm, with
fascinating little spots to dine and
shop. It’s one of our favorite small
towns in Hawaii, with a wonder-
ful agricultural heritage.
What’s Shakin’ ( on Map 4, I-3) (808-
964-3080). Located on the 4-mile scenic
route at Onomea, 1 mile north of Hawaii
Tropical Botanical Gardens. Owners Patsy
and Tim serve amazing fresh fruit smooth-
ies, with much of the fruit grown right on
their 23-acre farm. Healthy lunch choices include locally made
tamales served with delicious homemade salsa and garden-fresh
salad, avocado and fish wraps, and mouth-watering sandwiches.
Vegan and gluten-free choices are also available. Sit on the out-
side veranda that wraps around this cheery plantation-style
building and enjoy the breathtaking view and ocean breeze.
Just look for the What’s Shakin’ hula-girl sign holding a
delicious fruit smoothie. Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
7
Zip Isle Zip Line and Segway Tours at Botanical World
( on Map 4, I-3) (808-963-5427; toll free 888-947-4753).
Located on Highway 19 at mile-marker 16. All the adventure
and fun is at Botanical World Adventures. The new, two-wheel
stand-up Segway® personal transporters let you glide through
the rain forest to waterfalls, lush gardens and more. These
unique Segway rain-forest tours are the only botanical Segway
tours in Hawaii. Fly through the rain-forest canopy on the
seven-stage, family-friendly Zip Isle Zip Line Adventure tour
which climaxes with dual ziplines nearly a quarter-mile long.
For a unique adventure that can’t be beat, combine a Segway
tour with a Zip Line tour. Open daily 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
www.botanicalworld.com
5
LET’S
EAT
Skyline Eco-Adventures–Akaka Falls Zipline Tour ( on
Map 4, I-3) (808-878-8400). Soaring nearly 250 feet over pri-
vately owned KoleKole Falls, Skyline Eco-Adventures sets a
new standard for family adventure on the Big Island. Its zip-
lines pass above jaw-dropping scenery and across unrivaled
spans. Skyline is the United States’ first and most experienced
zipline operator, making Skyline Eco-Adventures–Akaka Falls
the most trusted and proven zipline operation on the Big
Island of Hawaii.
www.zipline.com/hawaiidriveguide
The Umauma Experience ( on Map 4, H-3) (808-930-
9477) is located on the beautiful Hamakua Coast, at 31-313
Old Mamalahoa Highway. Experience Hawaii’s most extreme
zipline adventure. Featuring four dual lines and five single
lines, this is everything you came to Hawaii to experience.
With beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean, a 200-foot
suspension bridge, almost 2 miles of ziplines high above the
famous Umauma River and numerous waterfalls, you’ll see
why Umauma Zipline Experience was voted best zipline in
East Hawaii. This is also the home of the famous Umauma
Falls triple-tier waterfall, and a beautiful tropical garden with
river walks through a palm forest. The experience is fantastic,
fun and a feast for the eyes. Open daily 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
(See coupon for special offer.)
www.ZiplineHawaii.com
World Botanical Gardens at
Botanical World Adventures
( on Map 4, I-3) (808-963-
5427; toll free 888-947-4753).
Located on Highway 19 at mile-
marker 16. This popular botani-
cal garden showcases ancient
history on unique and exciting
adventure tours ranging from
Segway Glide off-road tours to
Zip Isle Zip Line flying tours
through the rain-forest canopy.
Don’t miss the exclusive Guided
Botanical Discovery Tour of the
lush gardens with hundreds of
orchids, bromeliads and exotic plants (reservations, please).
Or enjoy the new Gardens Audio Tour at your leisure. In ad-
dition to the gardens, visitors enjoy the world-class maze and
Kamaee Waterfall. Enjoy the 360-degree vistas that include
Mauna Kea and sweeping ocean views.
www.botanicalworld.com
6
4
5
www.hawaiidriveguides.com 45
R
ich in Hawaiian legends and natural beauty,
Laupahoehoe is also a special place that re-
minds us of nature’s potential destructiveness.
On April 1, 1946, years before warning
systems were in place, an earthquake in the Aleutian
Islands generated a tsunami that swept over Hilo and
completely inundated the peninsula of Laupahoehoe,
killing 20 students and four teachers who were on a
field trip that day. More about this tragic event can be
learned through the commemorative monument at
Laupahoehoe Point and at the Pacific Tsunami
Museum in Hilo.
LAUPAHOEHOE
A
t the top of lists
for awesome
Hawaii Island
sights is Waipio Valley
Lookout, an amazing
aerial view of a lush valley
and a long black-sand
beach. A steep road leads
down to the valley floor,
accessible only by foot or
by four-wheel-drive vehicles.
Most visitors capture the
view from the top, taking
in the historic region with its patchwork of taro fields,
the magnificent cliffs and the black beach often con-
trasting with the white foam of crashing waves.
WAIPIO VALLEY
Photo by Brett Uprichard
LIVE IT UP—
In the Air!
The thrilling new sport of ziplining has taken
Hawaii by storm. Some say you haven’t really
lived till you experience the adventure of
seeing Hawaii Island from this unique perspective.
Many of the Big Island’s zipline companies operate
on the lush eastern side of the island, where the
scenery is as amazing as the adventure. Favorites
include a zipline with wonderful views of Akaka
Falls, one of Hawaii’s premier attractions, a
spectacular falls that cascades dramatically down
a sheer volcanic cliff.
Nearby is another natural wonder, Umauma, a
wonderland carved on the slopes of massive
Mauna Kea by the Umauma River. The river breaks
into a series of triple-tiered waterfalls. It’s a
picture-perfect landscape, topped off with a view
of snowcapped Mauna Kea in the winter months.
Other favorites include the natural forest canopy
in Kohala, on the northern tip of the island,
where zipline platforms and arching suspension
bridges are placed in majestic trees, offering
fabulous views.
For more information about how to add a little zip
to your Hawaii adventure, check out:
www.ZiplineHawaii.com
www.zipisle.com
www.kohalazipline.com
www.zipline.com
www.ziplinehi.com
Photos courtesy of Kohala Zipline; Umauma Falls and Zipline
Experience; Zip Isle at Botanical World; Skyline Eco-Adventures
46 HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE March-June 2015
Hilo
TopDriveGuidePicks
Dozens of streams and waterfalls—including RAINBOW FALLS—are fed from waters that flow down the slopes of massive Mauna Kea,
eventually making their way to the sea. I PAGE 50
LILIUOKALANI GARDENS is a favorite spot for
visitors and residents alike, who come here for the
garden’s tranquil beauty and excellent views of Hilo Bay
and Mauna Kea. I PAGE 53
48 HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE March-June 2015
PhotosbyMichaelWarwick/Shutterstock.com;BrettUprichard;DarrellIshii
HILO FARMERS’ MARKET offers
the bounty of fruits, vegetables
and flowers that are harvested fresh
from Hilo farms, as well as fascinating
arts and crafts created
locally. I PAGE 52
Places to go, things to do
from a local’s point of view.
LIKE US ON
Onomea Bay,
Hawaii Island
PerfectPPP
Days
Perfect
Days
Hawaii
Reduce your entry fees at 10 of the
Big Island’s top museums with the
Telephone (808) 963-5091
Destination Hilo
strives to offer unique experiences and
provide innovative visitor activities.
Where your Hawaiian
adventure begins...
BIG ISLAND
MUSEUM
Discount Pass
BIG ISLAND
MUSEUM
Discount Pass
To purchase GO TO
www.destinationhilo.com
Hilo
SEE MAP ON PAGE 74
T
he center of commerce, business
and government for the island,
Hilo has managed over the years
to maintain its small-town charm and
reputation as one of the friendliest places
in the Hawaiian Islands. While retaining
cherished values, Hilo keeps its leading
edge with astronomy and research
centers, a local branch of the University
of Hawaii, and some of the most
progressive restaurants on the island.
With an abundance of sun, rain and rich volcanic soil, the area is
ideal for cultivating colorful tropical flowers, including some of
the finest anthurium and orchid varieties in the world. It’s also
famous for its lush botanical gardens, historical museums,
waterfalls and beautifully maintained public parks. Built around
the crescent of Hilo Bay, the town was a trading spot for early
Hawaiians and today offers a wonderful array of specialty shops.
PhotosbyBrettUprichard;DarrellGrindstaff
LET’S STAY Hilo is one of the choice
locations to set up accommodations for
the perfect “staycation,” combining relaxation
with amazing scenery.
LET’S PLAY Fly over an active,
steaming volcano, travel (figuratively)
into space and visit some of the most
important cultural sites on the Big Island.
LET’S SHOP Fresh-cut flowers and
fruits straight from nearby farms, aloha
wear for the entire family, cookies and candies
you will never forget—all available in Hilo.
50 HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE March-June 2015
Hilo Fishing
Photo by Brett Uprichard
RAINBOW FALLS
O
ne of Hilo’s favorite attractions is Rainbow Falls
( on Map 5, B-1), where visitors gather at the
lookout for photos of the falls, often graced by early-
morning rainbows. The water travels from the lush upper
slopes of Mauna Kea, down to nearby Boiling Pots ( on
Map 5, B-1) (so named for the turbulence created as water
tumbles down the rocky stream bed), then spills into the scenic
Rainbow Falls pond. The water continues past the historic
Wailuku River Bridge and, ultimately, empties into Hilo Bay.
One of the most pleasant places to enjoy a panoramic view
of Hilo (with a picnic lunch, perhaps) is at Liliuokalani
Gardens ( on Map 5, A-4) and on nearby Coconut
Island ( on Map 5, A-4).
A stroll around Hilo should include a stop by the Hilo Farmers’
Market ( on Map 5, A-3), where fresh flowers, produce and lo-
cal arts are on sale every Wednesday and Saturday morning. With-
in walking distance is Wailoa State Park ( on Map 5, A-4).
1
1
10
9
6
8
DOWNTOWN
HILO
Mon-Sat 7am to 9pm
Sun 7am to 7pm
321 Keawe St.
(808) 935-3751
PUAINAKO
5:30am to Midnight
50 East Puainako St.
(808) 959-9111
Pharmacy
(808) 959-8700
KEAUHOU
7am to 10pm
Keauhou Shopping
Center (808) 322-2311
Pharmacy
(808) 322-2511
KAILUA-KONA
5am to 11pm
Kona Coast
Shopping Center
(808) 329-1677
WAIMEA
6am to 11pm
Waimea Center
(808) 885-8866
Pharmacy
(808) 885-0033
WAIKOLOA
6am-9pm
Waikoloa Village
Market
(808) 833-1088
Pharmacy (808) 883-3434
HiloKona
Waimea
Local Produce Kona CoffeeBeverages
Beach SuppliesMeals to Go Your
One -Stop
Vacation
Shop.
Hawaii Gifts PharmacyFresh Poke & Seafood
local food and gifts with friendly, expert service.
www.ktasuperstores.com
www.waikoloavillagemarket.com
$
10Value
Coupon Good
3/1/15 to 6/30/15
or While Supplies Last
Free at no additional cost. $50 Purchase must be in a single transaction. This coupon must be
presented at the time of purchase. Gift card, alcohol, or tobacco can not be counted towards the
total purchase amount. Cannot be doubled, tripled, quadrupled or exchanged for cash or refund.
Void if copied or transferred. May not be used in combination with any other offer. LIMIT ONE
COUPON PER PERSON, PER TRANSACTION. Valid at any KTA Super Stores or Waikoloa Village Market.
52 HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE March-June 2015
Hilo
Hale Kai Hawaii Bed & Breakfast (
on Map 5, A-3; on Map 4, J-2) (808-
935-6330). Enjoy a spectacular oceanfront
view of the Pacific, Hilo Bay and Honolii
surfing beach. Delicious full breakfast
included. Oceanfront rooms, private bath,
free WiFi, cable TV, pool and hot tub. Recommended by
Frommer’s, Fodor’s, Lonely Planet, TripAdvisor (Certificate of
Excellence) and Hawaii, The Big Island Revealed. Turn off
Highway 19 at mile-marker 5, toward the ocean, on Paukaa
Drive, then right to 111 Honolii Place. Located 2 miles north
of Hilo, 10 minutes from the airport. Nightly rates from $169.
Credit cards accepted. Smoke-free.
www.halekaihawaii.com
Blue Hawaiian Helicopters ( on Map
5, A-7; on Map 3, E-2) (808-961-5600).
Blue Hawaiian has a track record of leader-
ship and the finest pilots, with state-of-the-
art aircraft, including the incredible, all-
new, ultra-quiet, ultra-spacious, 21st-century
“Eco-Star,” a Blue Hawaiian first. The company was first in the
U.S. to be certified under the rigorous TOPS program for tour
helicopter safety. It has a four-camera digital video system and
Bose® electronic, noise-cancelling headsets. Every year since
1998, it has been awarded the FAA’s prestigious “Diamond
Certificate of Excellence.” Departures from Hilo and Waikoloa.
www.bluehawaiian.com
4
10
15
6
Destination Hilo (808-963-5091). This nonprofit visitor-in-
dustry organization has partnered with 11 museums and the
County of Hawaii Department of Research and Development
to offer the Big Island Museum Discount Pass through the
Internet. Drive around Hawaii Island and see its best-known
cultural, historical and science centers. Save up to $60 in en-
trance fees for two adults by purchasing this pass for only $8.
Destination Hilo strives to offer unique Hawaiian experiences
and provide innovative visitor activities.
www.destinationhilo.com
‘Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaii ( on Map 5,
D-2) (808-969-9700, recorded information, 808-969-
9703, during business hours). The center weaves today’s
newest astronomy findings and Hawaii’s cultural heritage
into a compelling story of star exploration. The center
features more than 100 exhibits, including a 3-D theater,
the Kumulipo experience, a replica of sacred Mauna Kea
with the night sky overhead and full-dome shows within
the state’s largest high-tech planetarium. It is one of the
first discovery centers to incorporate both Hawaiian and
English languages to enhance the cultural and learning
experience. Located at 600 ‘Imiloa Place, off Komohana
Street. Open Tuesday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Save time for the ‘Imiloa Sky Garden Restaurant and
museum store. (See coupon for special offer.)
www.imiloahawaii.org
KapohoKine Adventures ( on Map 5, A-3) (808-964-
1000) 224 Kamehameha Ave., on Hilo Bay. Thrill seekers,
nature lovers and avid explorers go to KapohoKine Adventures
for unforgettable tours. Zipline Through Paradise boasts the
longest course on Hawaii Island. Zip nearly 2 miles alongside
your best bud, hike through Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
or take a helicopter ride. Whatever tour you choose, you’ll get
an insider’s view of Hawaii Island. Big groups, lone travelers—
more than 400 happy customers on TripAdvisor give top
ratings. Visit the Hilo store for quality camping gear.
www.kapohokine.com
Lava Ocean Tours (808-966-4200 for reservations) Get an
up-close and personal view of lava on the popular Lava Boat
Tours and Hot Lava Hikes. Hilo also boasts great charter fishing,
wildlife and waterfall tours, scuba diving, private charters and
volcano boat tours. Three U.S. Coast Guard-rated vessels are
available, with comfortable seating for six to 49 passengers.
Let the experienced local guides make your Hawaii dream
a reality today.
www.seelava.com
2
5
LET’S
PLAY
LET’S
STAY
Fresh papaya, mango,
banana, decorative
flowers, locally made arts
and crafts—they are all on sale
for terrific prices at the Hilo
Farmers’ Market. “From dawn
till it’s gone,” the market takes
place every Wednesday and
Saturday in Hilo’s historic
district ( on Map 5, A-3).
Dating back to 1988, the
market now features more
than 200 vendors, offering
everything from hydroponic
vegetables to specialty products
created on the Big Island. Food vendors will whip you up
a tasty Japanese bento box, Vietnamese spring rolls and
refreshing coconut water out of a green coconut opened
on the spot.
6
PhotosbyDarrellIshii;HiloBayBooks;DarrellGrindstaff
Hilo Bay
Photo by Darrell Ishii
www.hawaiidriveguides.com 53
Lyman Museum ( on Map 5, B-2) (808-935-5021).
Located at 276 Haili St., the Smithsonian-affiliated Lyman
Museum tells the story of Hawaii’s islands and its people
through exhibits on Hawaii’s volcanic origins, unique flora
and fauna, and Hawaiian culture. Admire worldwide
collections of sea shells and minerals, and learn about
missionary life on a tour of the historic Lyman Mission House,
the island’s oldest wooden structure, built in 1839. Open
Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
www.lymanmuseum.org.
Paradise Helicopters ( on Map 5, A-7) (866-876-7422)
Paradise helicopter tours offer unique, fun and flexible air
adventures across Hawaii Island. Feel the volcanic power of
lava and ride with the doors off or hover next to 2,000-foot
waterfalls as you photograph the remote beauty of the rain-
forest valleys and green-sand beach. These helicopter tours
offer diverse adventure options. Whether you are departing
from Kona or Hilo, or from its exclusive helipad on the
North Shore of Oahu, Paradise has exceptional pilots and
awesome aircraft ready to show you all the amazing things
there are to see in Hawaii. This is one flight you will
remember for a lifetime.
www.paradisecopters.com
Safari Helicopter Tours ( on Map 5, B-6) (Hilo: 808-969-
1259; 800-326-3356). Located at the Commuter Air Terminal
in Hilo, Safari Helicopters was founded in 1987 by retired
Naval Reserves commander Preston Myers. Myers wants
passengers to fully enjoy their adventure and considers safety
first. He holds to the axiom, “There are old pilots and there
are bold pilots, but there are no old, bold pilots.” All his pilots
adhere to his high standards of professionalism. Safari features
the Super ASTAR 350 B2-7, with air conditioning, Bose-X
stereo headsets, an FAA-approved multiple-camera system to
record videos and a two-way intercom system. After 26 years
of service, it continues to offer FAA 135 certification. Tours
depart from Hilo.
www.safarihelicopters.com
15
14
3
Big Island Candies ( on Map 5, C-4)
(808-935-8890). Located at 585 Hinano
St., Big Island Candies has been creating
delectable treats since 1977, including its
famous diagonally dipped shortbread cook-
ies. Stop by for a free sample of cookies and
chocolates complemented by a cup of 100-percent Kona coffee
and see how Hawaii’s finest confections are made. Special
attention to detail and exemplary customer service are what
make this a favorite stop for kamaaina (locals) and malihini
(visitors) alike. Open 365 days a year from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
www.bigislandcandies.com
Hilo Bay Books ( on Map 5, C-5) (808-935-
9234) ( on Map 1-A, C-1) (808-326-7790).
Located in Hilo at 829-A Leilani St. and in
Kona at 74-5487 Kaiwi St. Residents know this
is where to shop for used books, CDs and DVDs
at a fraction of retail prices. Open daily 10 a.m.
to 6 p.m.
www.konabaybooks.com
7
12
3
LET’S
SHOP
WHAT’S SHAKIN’Located on the 4-mile scenic route at
Onomea, one mile north of the Hawaii
Tropical Botanical Gardens. Owners Patsy
and Tim serve amazing fresh fruit smoothies
made with fruit grown right on their 23-
acre farm. Healthy lunch choices include
locally made tamales served with homemade
salsa and garden-fresh salad. Vegan and
gluten-free choices are available. Just look
for the What’s Shakin’ hula girl sign holding
a delicious fruit smoothie. Open daily 10 a.m.
to 5 p.m. ( on Map 4, I-3)7
Hilo Hattie ( on Map 5, D-5; on Map 6, A-2) has five
stores throughout the Hawaiian Islands, making it Hawaii’s
largest retailer and manufacturer of Hawaii fashions and gifts.
Voted by Hawaii residents as “The Best Place for Hawaiian
Fashions” since 2001, Hilo Hattie offers the best values and
largest selection of Made-in-Hawaii gifts, including aloha
attire, souvenirs, jewelry, gourmet foods and more, with a
100-percent quality guarantee.
www.hilohattie.com
KTA Super Stores ( on Map 5, E-4) (808-959-9111).
Whatever you want—groceries, an ahi poke bowl, beer, wine,
Kona coffee, Hawaii-grown produce, chocolate, macadamia
nuts, souvenirs, slippers, sunblock or a prescription filled—
come and get it at KTA Super Stores, the Big Island’s go-to
place for, well, everything. Find wide selections of your fa-
vorite brands and taste authentic local specialties. With six
convenient locations in Hilo, Kona, Waimea and Waikoloa,
feel the aloha at KTA, serving the Big Island since 1916.
www.ktasuperstores.com
11
113
LILIUOKALANI PARK AND GARDENS
Queen Liliuokalani, Hawaii’s last reigning monarch,
donated this 30-acre site to the city of Hilo for all future
generations to enjoy. Japanese gardens were planted in
the early 1900s, adding a touch of elegance to the curve
of Hilo Bay. The park is reached via Banyan Drive, on
Waiakea Peninsula. Key features include Waihonu Pond,
pagodas and Japanese statuary. Nearby Coconut Island is
a good spot to capture another view of Hilo Bay and
Mauna Kea in the distance.
Puna&
Ka‘u
Here is a land of fire and ice, with molten lava
pouring continuously into the sea, visible
from the top of majestic Mauna Loa, one of
the world’s most massive mountains.
TopDriveGuidePicks
HAWAII VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK is the island’s star attraction, featuring an active “drive-in” volcano, an informative visitors’
center and the marvelous Chain of Craters Road. I PAGE 57
Years of volcanic activity and the ocean’s relentless grinding on the
lava shoreline have created PUNALUU BLACK SAND BEACH,
located on Hawaii Island’s southern coast. I PAGE 58
PhotosbyJuancat,Tralong,DavidLousick/Shutterstock.com
One of Puna’s best-kept secrets, a short drive from Hilo, is
PANAEWA RAINFOREST ZOO, America’s only zoo
located in a tropical rain forest. I PAGE 56
54 HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE March-June 2015
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  • 1. View digital version at www.hawaiidriveguides.com or download app on iTunes or Amazon.com HAWAIIDRIVEGUIDE The Original Driving Magazine 41YearsandCounting DRIVE GUIDEwelcomes you to the ISLAND OF HAWAII Puuhonua o HonaunauPhoto by Ann Cecil Maps I Coupons I Best Beaches I Win A Free Trip! Page 66 March — June 2015
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  • 3. Features 8 Welcome fromthe Publisher E Komo Mai 15 How to Use Your Drive Guide 32 Recommended Beaches Some of our favorites 46 Up in the Air Zip, zip, zip 58 Volcano! Hot, hot, hot 59 Shopping Island creations, Hawaii-style 60 Golf Directory The best, of course 62 Air Tours Hawaii Island from above 69 Bed-and-BreakfastAccommodations Home away from home 70 Perfect Days Hawaii Share the best Perfect Drives 16 Kona 34 Kohala 42 Hamakua 48 Hilo 54 Puna and Ka‘u Bonus Savings 69 Valuable Coupons Go ahead, save some money Maps 12-A Island Map 62 Drive Maps Begin Thirteen detailed maps to steer you around the island AKAKA FALLS Photo by Maridav / Shutterstock.com Contents HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE March-June 2015 I Vol. 39, No. 1 Perfect Drives www.hawaiidriveguides.com 3
  • 4. FREE Inter-Island Gear Return bossfrog.com No need to shell out big bucks at the hotel to take a peek at the reef. Boss Frog has a better deal. Get a complete snorkel set for just $1.50 per day or $9.00 per week. Looky here. 2 FOR 1 ON ALL WEEKLY SNORKEL SETRENTALS HAWAIIAN LUAU & FIREKNIFE SHOW This is Hawaii’s premier oceanfront luau with live music, and much more. Fun for everyone! Save $14/ couple Reg. $82 $ 7495 SNORKELING SAIL ADVENTURE sea turtles & more. Deli lunch with chips, island fruit, juice, soda, beer & wine included. Save $26/ couple Reg. $89 $ 7595 DOLPHIN SEACAVE RAFTING TRIPSee dolphins, sea caves & Captain Cook’s Monument. Go snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay. Includes snacks, drinks, & lunch. 4 hrs of fun! Save $10/ couple Reg. $75 $ 6995 LAVA WATERFALL HELICOPTER Volcano, tropical rainforests, waterfalls, black sand beaches, and more . 45- 50 minute tour! Save $18/ couple Reg. $178 $ 16295 PARASAILINGEARLY BIRD SPECIAL DEAL Soar 600 feet high above the ocean on a thrilling tour! Take-off and land from the boat & enjoy views of Kona! $70 all other times. Save $10/ couple Reg. $70 $ 6495 ZIPLININGSave $24/ couple Reg. $159 $ 14695 Top Quality Panoramic Mask, Snorkel & Fins, Carry Bag, Snorkel Map, Fish I.D. Believe It! We Carry Super Sanitized Gear In All Sizes From Eency Weency To Extra Huge And R/X Masks for Mildly Myopic to Basic Blind, Boogie Boards, Surfboards, Bikes, Golf Clubs, Digital Underwater Cam- eras, etc. OR: ... For just $9.00 per week get 2 Panoramic Masks, Snorkels & Fins, Carry Bags, Fish I.D. & Snorkel Maps. $ 50 or $ 900 Prices, features & tours subject to change w/o notice. All prices are per person & subject to tax, fuel surcharges, harbor fees, & 3% booking fee. Limited seats available on some trips. Can not combine offers. Must present ad in advance. HDG03-0615 Free week rental of a boogie board with any activity purchased. BIKE RENTALS PADDLEBOARD SUP RENTALS SURFBOARD RENTALS UNDERWATER VIDEO CAMERA RENTALS GOLF CLUB RENTALS BOOGIE BOARD RENTALS BEACH RENTALS SNORKEL RENTALS By High Prices! “Boss Frog’s Dive & Surf Shops will rent you everything you need.” ---Frommer’s SUBMARINEFOR LOW PRICE CALL One of the most fun activities in Hawaii, if you haven’t done it yet - go now! Soar over the Honolii river, waterfalls & through rainforests. This is Hawaii’s only real submarine adventure! Dive deep in air conditioned comfort. See exotic sea creatures. 50 minutes and 120 ft. down. Bring your camera for amazing photos. $ 15 $ 20 $ 30 $ 15 $ 29.95 $ 5 $ 150 $ 150 PER DAY PER DAY PER DAY PER DAY PER DAY PER DAY PER DAY PER DAY FROM FROM FROM FROM $ 50 $ 75 $ 60 $ 50 $ 150 $ 15 $ 500 $ 900 PER WEEK PER WEEK PER WEEK PER WEEK PER WEEK PER WEEK PER WEEK PER WEEK FROM FROM FROM FROM 75-5725 Ali’i Drive, In the Heart of Kona Town, Across from the Kona Inn at the Kona Marketplace Dive & Surf R
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  • 6. Located at Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay 808.930.4900 LOCALLY SOURCED BIG ISLAND CUISINE AND HANDCRAFTED COCKTAILS Experience Hawai‘i’s abundant farm-to-table bounty and the culinary artistry of Chef de Cuisine Jayson Malla alongside live music nightly and stunning ocean views. /RAYSONTHEBAY @RAYSONTHEBAY #RAYSONTHEBAY
  • 7. 3) 2)1) Please join us in: Snorkel Bob’s Family Values! "Only with me, Snorkel Bob, do family values mean more fun on fewer dollars. Your junior barracuda will be reef confident in Snorkel Bob fins, Li'l Bubba™ snorkel and Li'l Mo Betta™ mask (Rx in stock!)–no snuks, leaks or implosion trauma. I, Snorkel Bob, have Rx masks for adults too and Bigfoot fins (15-17) for the mongo among you." Snorkel Bob admitted to sleep deprivation since Larry arrived.“Worse yet,he interrupts Catfish & me,Snorkel Bob, if you get my drift. On the bright side, neither hairballs nor missing the litter box can deter our joy. Catfish is the mother of our kitten. Our family may be rebuked on some channels, but we’ll have each other and maybe you too on Mask, Fins, Snorkel, Gear bag, No-Fog, Fish ID, Map ’n Tips & a FREE Bubba™ dry snorkel to use with every set for $9/week! "So we snorkel happily ever after, with the little feets kneading, the little motors purring, the sandpaper tongues on my chinny chin chin, and if that ain’t love, then what?” Let the Values Begin with a FREE turtle art beach bag or a boogie board for the week when you reserve 2 seats on most snorkel trips, luaus, ziplines, surf lessons or helicopter rides. And now... reserve multiple activities, get $5 off per person on 2nd or more activities. Because family values mean not paying too much, no matter how often you want to snorkel. She’sacat.I’mSnorkelBob. We’restillinlove. AndBabyLarrymakes Snorkel Bob & Catfish Renew Vows! Kailua-Kona 329-0770 Kohala/Waikoloa 885-9499 @ The Shops at Mauna Lani Snorkelspawn is among us. No snuks, leaks or pond scum in the gear wash.
  • 8. I mean you, Bubba, & Li’l Bubba too–– Does your dry snorkel flop? Does your swivel leak or crunch sand? Is that your kid whining over snuks & womb implosion trauma? Well, look at this: The Bubba snorkels (pat pending) drain splash water, block backwash and clear easy as ptuey! The Li’l Bubba™ is the first dry snorkel in small format EVER. Kids gag on adult snorkels or junk kid snorkels that collapse. Salt water in the sinuses burns. The Li’l Bubba™ snorkel and its counterpart, the Li’l Mo Betta™ mask will keep your junior barracuda happy as a meadowlark in springtime. The Ultima Bubba™, for 100 pounders or better, breathes free, clears easy and stays dry. It won’t flop, leak or crunch and is simply the best dry snorkel on the market today. FREE BUBBA (Li’l or Ultima) for use with gear for the week! Kailua-Kona 329-0770 Kohala/Waikoloa 885-9499 All Islands 8-5 Every Day No snuks, leaks, or pond scum in the gear wash. EKomoMai T hank you for choosing to spend your vacation time with us here on the Big Island of Hawaii. At 4,038 square miles, the island is nearly twice the size of all the other islands combined and, thanks to our ac- tive volcano, getting bigger every day. On behalf of all our advertis- ers, we wish each and every visitor a safe and enjoyable stay. To those of you who are returning to the Big Island, we extend a sincere mahalo and welcome back! You can also visit our website at:www.honolulupublishing.com and our digital site at www.hawaiidriveguides.com Editor — Brett Uprichard Art Director — Darrell Ishii Production Director — Patty O’Hara Associate Art Director — Rodney Gardine Internet Marketing Director — Darrell Grindstaff Advertising Design — Renaissance Blue Design Copy Editor — Kathy Reimers Administrative Assistant for Hawaii Drive Guides — Melisa Kitsuki-Shearer Accounting — Kathy Yamada, Brianna Yanagida Circulation/Distribution — Hawaii Folder Service 808-960-0432 ADVERTISING SALES HAWAII AND KAUAI DRIVE GUIDE — Fax: 808-531-2306; 808-245-6419 Publisher — Maurina Borgatti — 808-245-8910 Hawaii Island Sales and Marketing Executive: Rene¯e Resureccion — 808-935-9822 MAUI, MOLOKAI AND OAHU DRIVE GUIDE — Fax: 808-873-6280 Publisher — Winona L. Higashi 800-724-6200, Ext. 24; 808-873-6240, Ext. 24 Maui Sales and Marketing Executive: Herb Tedebjörk — 808-442-2735 Oahu Sales and Marketing Executive: Dawn Gohara — 800-272-5245, Ext. 205 Oahu and Molokai Sales and Marketing Executive: Chris Sold — 800-272-5245, Ext. 228 The HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE is published three times a year by Hon- olulu Publishing Company, Ltd., 707 Richards St., Suite PH3, Honolulu, Hawaii 96813. Telephone 808-524-7400. From Neighbor Islands, call toll free 800-272-5245. Chairman: David Pellegrin; President and Chief Executive Officer: N.C. Tinebra; Executive Vice President–Group Pub- lisher: Winona L. Higashi; Vice President–Production: Patty O’Hara. All rights reserved. No part of this GUIDE may be reproduced without per- mission of the publisher. All contents copyright © 2015 by Honolulu Publishing Company, Ltd. Requests for DRIVE GUIDES should be accompanied by $5 per copy for handling and first-class mailing. MAURINA BORGATTI
  • 9. Gifts from paradise that they will love Locations also on Oahu, Maui and Kaua‘i. The largest selection of Made-In-Hawaii products with a 100% quality guarantee. Redeem at any Hilo Hattie store for your Free Hawaiian with any purchase of $25 or more. Redeem at any Hilo Hattie store for your Free Hawai‘i with any purchase of $10 or more. Offers Expires 7/15/2015 Valid at time of purchase,no splitting of transactions allowed.Offer(s) cannot be combined with any other promotion,discount or coupon.One free gift per person per day.Selection may vary.Not valid on fine jewelry,concessions or at HiloHattie.com.Free gifts are limited to stores availability.Stores reserve the right to substitute free gift with any available gift at time of redemption. HawaiiDriveGuideBigIsland HawaiiDriveGuideBigIsland Offers Expires 7/15/2015 Valid at time of purchase,no splitting of transactions allowed.Offer(s) cannot be combined with any other promotion,discount or coupon.One free gift per person per day.Selection may vary.Not valid on fine jewelry,concessions or at HiloHattie.com.Free gifts are limited to stores availability.Stores reserve the right to substitute free gift with any available gift at time of redemption. 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 8 1 9 5 8 - Calendar 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 8 0 5 0 2 - Sarong9 9 9 9 9 9 9 8 0 5 0 1 - Mug Hilo - Prince Kuhio Plaza 111 E. Puainako 96720 (808) 961-3077
  • 10.
  • 11. hen something is done right, you can taste the difference! That’s why “quality” is one of our main ingredients. Mauna Loa® macadamia nuts are dry roasted to golden perfection resulting in a superior product people have enjoyed for over 30 years. We are dedicated to offering only the finest macadamia nuts in 12 delicious flavors. isit our Visitor Center where you can enjoy free samples and shop for an assortment of island treats and gifts including an exclusive selection of Mauna Loa® products. Then view how we create our delectable flavors of macadamia nuts at our factory. Enjoy a 3 mile drive through macadamia nut orchards as you approach our Visitor Center. From Hilo: South on Highway 11 for 5 miles, turn left on Macadamia Road From Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park: North on Highway 11 for 20 miles, turn right on Macadamia Road. OPEN DAILY 8:30am to 5:00pm Factory typically does not operate on weekends or holidays (808) 966-8618 or (888) 628-6256 (toll free) • www.maunaloa.com DRY ROASTED WITH SEA SALT DRY ROASTED UNSALTED MAUI ONION GARLIC WASABI AND TERIYAKI HONEY ROASTED BUTTER CANDY GLAZED KONA COFFEE GLAZED MILK CHOCOLATE CHOCOLATE CARAMEL CLUSTERS MILK CHOCOLATE COCONUT MILK CHOCOLATE TOFFEE DARK CHOCOLATE
  • 12. Save some money, go online. Email us at reservations@safarihelicopters.com. Tours vary depending on weather. 24 hr. cancellation. Weight restrictions apply. Fly v ctiv v & 9 stru n O C l v l es & s ylights VOLCANO COAST SPECIAL 16900$ includes all fees 40-45 Minutes Safari Helicopters While you are online, read about Safari’s founder Preston Myers who was in the Navy during Vietnam and flew for Air America before he started Safari Helicopters. His military training and discipline have helped him create the procedures and standards that have contributed to Safari’s excellent safety record and consistently high quality. Safari regularly wins numerous awards locally and nationally. See more of it on our Deluxe tour that includes views of majestic waterfalls and volcanic activity that may include cinder cones, lava lakes, glowing skylights and lava flowing to the sea, depending on Madame Pele’s moods.You didn’t just fly over 4000 miles to miss this! We also have a popular Volcano/Coast tour. Go to our web site for more details. You can expect the highest standard of service and attention that can only be provided by a family-owned business. Safari is small enough to pay attention to every detail and large enough to be competitive with huge tour corporations. Safari is one of the most respected names in touring There is a good reason they call it the big Island Safari gives you service with the spirit of Aloha Come on Safari with us and see what everyone else is going to be missing H E L I C O S THE PEOPLES CH OICE SINCE 1987 Big Island 808-969-1259 Kauai 808-246-0136 Toll Free 800-326-3356 www.safarihelicopters.com Save some money Big Island video Fly over Kauai Family owend and operated since 1987 DVD of your actual tour availab Helicopter Association International Part 135 Certified Certified FAA evthaw meoC The gisseleonee eeryyoneev tiwriafSaonme theodi ssiimebotgnoig eesndass ah ut dbig Islanhttilcal gnssi fl vy fltsuj ngiwolfavaavand l ytivitcaicancolvvol otifoeromeeS iHtpliH ngirudyvaavNeth oerou ayelihWWh The ifarSa b sewwero outGo 4000revoylf aMnongindeped,easeo thtng nesocrednie cdulcy inaay inmthaty dulcnithatroutexuleDn ouro cipline haining and ditlitai mAriAroffowenam and flteiVing ouffouns’irt Safauobd aaer,nlineo theonaserreodogasierreThe esprrespected nmosthetofenois .slitaederomrfoetib s e also hWWe also h!sthissio mtslemi4000 nou didYYou did.dsoos m’elePdamea htgilykkysingwolg,eska lavavl,nes lfaretic watmajesff majesosweivesd thetd him cple hcipline h rd Safaetre he starfoebcairem ho was inwsreyMMynotesrPrdeoun dbig Islanehttilcalyy caleey gntourinimesaespected n saoColcano/VVolcano/pularope avve aave also h t’n sht ls and the ir ho was in g .routts yeeynomesomvee somaS operated since 1987operated since 1987 Family owend andand ommeosevveaavS itand nayllacol sinocd androcer andesrudecorp iH.sertpoclieH fSa l and laitaedyrevvee fy abydedivorp t thcepxeou canYYou can esrl us atiamE.eninloog,yeno .yllnao eriraffaSa.yy.tualiqhghiyy hilntetssi buitrnocevveavds that hrtandasand cipline hsaining and dirtyrlitais m wceirveou sysevigira itepmocebothgnoueegrl and la i israffaSa.sesniusbdenwo-yliamffam ivresfodrt standasheghiet th s.retpocileihrns@safaoitavrees rawaawousreumninswylrgulae yteffeasntellecxxces’iro Safatdetbu theetaerd him ceplee hvve havcipline h aAlohoftiirpsthehtiw oitaroprocrouteguhthiwevveit tnety ataay ato pthgnouellmasi is ylnon that canoitnete and atc .moc sd y the .nso otnoit eby d oediid vdlanIsligiB Certified ailab tual Part 135 Certified AAF oursT Big Island cancellation.r24 h.rary depending on weathevours .safarihelicopters.comwww 800-326-3356oll FreeT 808-969-1259Big Island .yeight restrictions applW.cancellation .safarihelicopters.com 800-326-3356 808-246-0136Kauai L I CEH iiaauuaaKKererovovyyllFF SC O InternationalInternational c noiciatoAss co retpoileH
  • 13. THE MOST BEAUTIFUL AREA IN HAWAII Onomea Rain Forest and Flower Jungle Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden A GARDEN IN A VALLEY ON THE OCEAN HAWAII TROPICAL BOTANICAL GARDEN is dedicated to preserving a spectacular Hawaiian rain forest. Located at Onomea Bay seven miles north of Hilo, this beautiful valley is a sanctuary and nature preserve for rare and endangered trop- ical plants from around the world, endemic Hawaiian plants and endangered tropical wildlife. SEE THE GARDEN’S BEAUTIFUL DISPLAY OF ORCHIDS in a natural setting. A nature lover and photog- rapher’s paradise, the Garden has over 2,000 species of flow- ers, palms and plants all growing in an unspoiled environ- ment. It is the only botanical garden in Hawaii fronting the ocean, with natural streams, a cascading 3-tier waterfall and palms as tall as 100 feet. Our new visitor center features a Historical Museum and our exquisite Garden Gift Shop. PLEASE PLANYOUR DAYTO ARRIVE EARLY—You will want to spend at least two hours to enjoy this one-of-a-kind Hawaiian nature preserve. Open daily from 9:00am to 5:00pm. Last entry at 4pm. Member of American Association of Botanical Gardens and Arboreta. Adult admission charged; children 5 and under free. Be sure to visit our web site at www.hawaiigarden.com Hertzlich Willkommen Unsere Deutschen Freunde Bienvenu a Nous Amis Français SHOW US YOUR RENTAL CAR KEYS FOR A FREE GIFT WITH PAID ADMISSION HAWAII TROPICAL BOTANICAL GARDEN P.O. Box 80 Papaikou HI 96781 27-717 Old Mamalahoa Hwy. (808) 964-5233
  • 14. Add a Touch of Aloha! FINE ORIENTAL CARPETS & HAWAIIAN RUGS® INDICH collection FREE SHIPPING TO CONTINENTAL US & INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING AVAILABLE KAILUA-KONA BIG ISLAND K o n a I n d u s t r i a l P a r k 7 4 - 5 5 9 9 L u h i a S t r e e t 8 0 8 . 3 2 9 . 6 5 0 0 SHOWROOMS OPEN EVERYDAY 10 AM WWW.HAWAIIANRUGS.COM 8 0 8 . 5 2 4 . 7 7 6 9 H O N O L U L U O A H U 8 0 8 . 5 9 6 . 7 3 3 3 K A H U L U I M A U I 8 0 8 . 8 7 7 . 7 2 0 0
  • 15. How to Use Your Drive Guide EKomoMai!Welcome to Hawaii Island, commonly known as “the Big Island,” because it’s the largest island in the Hawaiian chain (nearly twice as big as the other islands combined) and to differentiate it from the state’s name. Other nicknames include the Volcano Isle and the Orchid Isle, for the profusion of orchid farms that thrive here. The HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE is designed to help visitors get the most out of their vacations on this special island, which boasts one of the world’s most active volcanoes and two of the largest mountain masses on Earth. Our goal is to steer you in the right direction for the finest scenic attractions, beautiful beaches, great dining and fun shopping. Hawaii is also a terrific place for a wide range of activities for all ages and abilities, from exciting deep-sea fishing to relaxing boat cruises. The island is rich in cultural heri- tage, fascinating museums, a variety of special events and world- famous annual festivals, including Hilo’s Merrie Monarch Festival. Driving around the Big Island is certainly no one-day affair. Ideally, the island should be approached with several day tours. We have divided the island into five Perfect Drives, mapping out these geographical areas to simplify your driving and walking tours: •Page 16: Kona, including the seaside town of Kailua-Kona. •Page 34: Kohala, the land of paniolo (cowboys). •Page 42: Hamakua, the expansive coastline once home to sugar plantations. Digital Drive Guides at www.hawaiidriveguides.com FOLLOW US www.facebook.com/PerfectDaysHi www.twitter.com/PerfectDaysHi www.youtube.com/PerfectDaysHi www.pinterest.com/PerfectDaysHI •Page 48: Hilo, a charming town worth strolling leisurely. •Page 54: Puna and Ka‘u, with Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the main attraction of the area. The 13 detailed maps are conveniently grouped together in the back section of your DRIVE GUIDE. Refer to the table of contents for details on each region, including referenced area maps, major attractions and information about dining, shopping and activities. Have a safe, carefree visit, but don’t let your guard down. Even paradise has a few bad apples, so precautions are advised: Never carry excess cash and never lock valuables, such as cameras and jewelry, in your rental car. Never swim at a beach alone and, whenever possible, select beaches with a lifeguard or where locals can inform you of ocean conditions. In general, conduct yourself as you would back home. If you plan to drink alcohol, choose a designated driver. Always avoid poorly lit areas late at night. As in many other places, it is prohibited to use cell phones and other electronic devices while operating a motor vehicle. In the event of an emergency, you can dial 911 from any pay phone without depositing money. For non-emergency help, dial 211. From the largest R&D data pool in the world comes Sumo™ . Designed for the average-to-full-visage range,Sumo™ will broaden subaqueous horizons like never before.Coast-to-Coast/ Heaven-&-Earth (CtC/H&E) technology renders the reef global at last. With HD/EZ-adjust buckle, compression-molded subframe,Apollo XIX re-entry polymer mainframe, Ultra-lite Engineering (UlE), crystal silicone skirt & strap, Sumo™ will bellybutt any other mask in any arena––2’ to 200’! Sumo™ WILL OUTLIVEYOU.It will not leak or break with normal use. So don’t pussyfoot around on snuks,glugs & a hard sell on a timeshare. Get to a reef & SEE what you been missing. Oh, & hey! Fishfood is killing our reefs. I, SB, don’t sell it. If it’s new in snorkeling, it’s from me, Snorkel Bob. “The Sumo ™ is the best BIG VIEW mask in the world!” ––Snorkel Bob, Himself No snuks, leaks, or pond scum in the gear wash. Kailua-Kona 329-0770 Kohala/Waikoloa 885-9499
  • 16. Kona PUUHONUA O HONAUNAU is among the historical Hawaiian treasures that dot North and South Kona. Other key sites in this area include Ahuena Heiau, Hulihee Palace, Mokuaikaua Church and the Captain Cook Monument in Kealakekua Bay. I PAGE 30 ST. BENEDICT’S PAINTED CHURCH, a hidden jewel near Honaunau, dates back to 1842. Father John Berchmans Velge painted its interior with dramatic scenes from the Bible. I PAGE 20 Hawaiian royalty chose a prime location along Kailua-Kona’s scenic bay for HULIHEE PALACE, built in the early 1800s as a summer retreat. I PAGE 18 16 HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE March-June 2015 PhotosbyCleanfotos/Shutterstock.com;BrettUprichard TopDriveGuidePicks
  • 17.
  • 18. SEE MAPS ON PAGES 62, 63, 65 & 66 is the shining jewel of the area and its main thoroughfare is Alii Drive. Starting at Kailua Pier ( on Map 1-A, D-4), Alii Drive follows the shoreline and is a perfect strolling road. Shaded by giant banyan trees and lined with shops and restaurants, a good place to begin is at the pier, over- looking Ahuena Heiau ( on Map 1-A, E-4). This ancient Hawaiian temple faces Kamakahonu (literally, “eye of the turtle”), a small, sandy stretch of beach where King Kameha- meha the Great maintained his royal residence until his death in 1819. Nearby Mokuaikaua Church ( on Map 1-A, C-4) is the oldest Christian church in Hawaii, built by missionaries in 1820. Across the street, along the shoreline, is one of the most important historical structures in Kailua, Hulihee Palace ( on Map 1-A, C-4). Built in the 1800s for royalty, it is today a fascinating museum dedicated to preserving Hawaii’s unique cultural heritage. Farther south along Alii Drive, best reached by car, is Magic Sands ( on Map 1, H-2) and Kahaluu Beach Park ( on Map 1, I-2), as well as Keauhou Bay ( on Map 1, J-1). Save time to stop by the quaint little blue chapel, St. Peter’s Church ( on Map 1, I-2) and some of the beaches north of Kona, including Anaehoo- malu Beach Park( onMap3,E-2). amous for its clear blue waters, world-class sport fishing and marine life, Kona has just about every water activity imagina- ble. Make it a point to spend some time getting in the water or at least on the water while you’re here. Several water activities are based at Honokohau Harbor ( on Map 1, E-1), along Alii Drive at Kailua Pier ( on Map 1-A, D-4) and at beautiful Keauhou Bay ( on Map 1, J-1). 8 9 7 10 8 12 9 4 12 8 10 4 Romantic Kailua-Kona 18 HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE March-June 2015 LET’S PLAY Chase some world-class big game on the open sea, get a bird’s-eye view of the Kona Coast, scuba dive in a bay that made international history. LET’S EAT Choose from a variety of excellent restaurants for some fresh catch of the day, right out of Kona waters, or satisfy a hearty appetite with a big, juicy steak. LET’S SHOP Add a touch of aloha to your home with renowned Kona art, Hawaiian floral rugs, inspired jewelry, Island collectibles and perhaps some fun souvenirs for friends back home. Kona FOn the west coast of the Big Island, the districts of North and South Kona deserve several days of exploration. Once the capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom, the Kona region is rich in history. It’s also famous for its mild climate, sunny beaches, water activities, stunning sun- sets and prime real estate. The town of Kailua-Kona and the entire area from the airport to Keauhou are often referred to simply as Kona. HULIHEE PALACE OceanImagePhotography/Shutterstock.com;BrettUprichard
  • 19. www.hawaiidriveguides.com 19 Bite Me Sportfishing ( on Map 1, E-1) (808-936-3442). Located in Honokohau Harbor, 74-425 Kealakehe Parkway, No. 17. Bite Me Sport Fishing has been rated Kailua-Kona’s No.1 sport-fishing charter since 2000. Harboring five beautiful boats and a restaurant/fish market, fishing in Hawaii has never been more accommodating. Don’t forget to ask to have your catch cooked for you. E-mail: konafishing@bitemesportfishing.com www.bitemesportfishing.com Body Glove Cruises ( on Map 1-A, D-4) (888-247-8509). The Snorkel and Dolphin Adventure guarantees dolphin sightings or come again for FREE. Enjoy breakfast, a barbecue lunch, snorkeling, a 20-foot water slide and a 15-foot-high dive. Instruction, flotation devices, toys and all gear provided, with SCUBA, SNUBA, GoPros, Torpedo underwater scooters and wetsuits available for a bit extra. Historical sunset dinner and lunch cruises to Kealakekua Bay are offered, as well as seasonal whale-watching excursions. The beautiful 65-foot catamaran has three restrooms, freshwater showers, cushioned seating, plenty of shade, a premium cash bar and is wheel- chair accessible. www.bodyglovehawaii.com Boss Frog’s Snorkel, Surf & Cycle ( on Map 1-A, D-4) (808-331-1990). Located in the Kona Marketplace at 75-5725 Alii Drive. Boss Frog’s has everything you need for the beach: snorkel gear, boogieboards, surfboards, stand-up paddle- boards, digital underwater cameras, coolers, umbrellas, beach chairs, wet suits, sun hats, beach towels, sunscreen, visors and great discounts on activities. www.bossfrog.com Captain Zodiac ( on Map 1, E-1) (808-329-3199). Located at Honokohau Harbor. Captain Zodiac, voted “Best Tour in Kona,” is an exciting ride, highlighted by the Kealakekua Bay Marine Preserve destination. Explore the sea caves and enjoy close encounters with dolphins and whales on the fast, highly maneuverable Zodiac rafts. Small groups, an informative captain and crew, and a beautiful snorkel spot make this one of the island’s most popular tours. Morning, afternoon and midday tours are available. Beat the Crowd is the midday tour (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) and includes lunch. Swim with dolphins and fewer people at Kealakekua Bay. Wild Dolphin Swim, an amazing new experience, allows you 4 8 11 4 Kona by the bay Photo by Brett Uprichard LET’S PLAY Call for Details “Book 2 or More Trips & Save!” Email: SunLightOnWater@gmail.com www.SunlightOnWater.com DOLPHIN SWIMS, Daily MANTA SNORKELS, Nightly WHALE WATCHING CHARTERS, Jan-Feb-Mar NEW! SNORKEL KEALAKEKUA BAY, Afternoons MANTA Join us for an unforgettable journey that will speak to your Heart & Spirit! Snorkel Gear, snacks & photos included on all tours. CaCalallll fforor “B“BoBoookk 2 orr MoMorrBBBooookok 2 oror MoMoror MMANTANT r DDetettaiaililsls rere riripipsps & SaSaveve!!”!”TTTrTrrere riripipsps & SaSaaveve!e!!TTr TTAA
  • 20. to join dolphins in their natural habitat. Whale-watching December through April features small groups, so everyone has front-row seats, and fast Zodiacs get you to the action quicker, with frequent close-up encounters. www.captainzodiac.com Expedia Local Expert ( on Map 1, F-1) (888-353-8523). The Big Island is known for its volcanoes and marlin fishing. This fun activity center helps visitors get the best prices daily on helicopter volcano tours, snorkel and scuba diving, para- sailing, fishing, horseback riding, luaus and more. Meet with friendly staff, who know the island, answer your questions and do the legwork while you relax. Fair Wind II ( on Map 1, J-1) (808-345-3340). A snorkel cruise to Kealakekua Bay aboard the 60-foot Fair Wind II is a treat for the whole family. She features two 15-foot water slides, a high-jump platform, freshwater showers and a no-host bar. Flotation devices, boogie boards with viewing windows, snorkel gear (including prescription masks), view boxes and inner tubes with seats for the children are provided. The shallow mooring gives easy access to all the sights, and 6 12 Kona Sitting on the volcanic slopes of the Big Is- land’s Mauna Loa, St. Benedict’s Painted Church is one of Hawaii’s treas- ured historic structures. The wooden edifice, built in 1842 to serve South Kona’s predominantly Hawaiian population at the time, is located off Honaunau Road in the midst of lush farm lands where avocado, banana and coffee plants flourish. A marvelous time of day to visit the Painted Church is near sunset, when the setting sun lights up the church, its white exterior glowing brightly against the dark clouds that cling to the mountain slopes at day’s end. Today, serving the area’s Catholics, mostly part-Hawaiian and Filipino families that still work the land, St. Benedict Roman Catholic Church is listed on the Hawaii State Register of Historical Places and theNational Register of Historical Places. ( , Map 2, E-3)7 ST. BENEDICT’S PAINTED CHURCH BrettUprichard SWIM WITH DOLPHIN’S DOLPHIN • SNORKEL • SAILING KAMANU CHARTERS KONA’S ONLY “REAL” SAILING CATAMARAN CALL 329-2021 Whale Watching December - April Manta Snorkel Dolphin Encounters Leave the crowds to the other boats. 24 guest maximum (usually less) 4 Different Exciting Trips Daily Snorkel Sail •Sunset Sail •Dolphin Swim Sunset Manta Ray Snorkel Take 2 or more trips and save! SUNSET SAIL Pupus and open bar included on this adults-only sunset sail 20 guest maximum Sailing Daily from Honokohau Marina 24 hour cancellation notice $ 20 OFFPER COUPLE ON ANY TRIP or $10 OFF per adults. Call direct and mention this ad. Not valid with any other offer. kamanu.com KAMANU CHARTERS 329-2021
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  • 22. Kona you’ll be treated to a living rainbow of tropical fish and beautiful reef formations. Add to that a great selection of food and refreshments and Fair Wind II is your base for excitement and relaxation. www.fair-wind.com GyPSy Guide (866-477-4171). If you’re planning to drive to Volcanoes National Park from Kona or the Kohala Coast, download the GyPSy Guide driving tour app. It’s just like having a tour guide in your car! GyPSy Guide plays interesting commentary automatically as you drive, telling you about the fantastic sites and features before they whip by. The tour provides an introduction as you drive to the volcano and explains key places to visit when you get there. Download the app to iPhone or Android devices over Wi-Fi. Requires no data or cellular connection while you are touring. Search “gypsy guide Hawaii” in your app store. www.gypsyguide.com Hawaii Forest & Trail ( on Map 1, E-2) (800-464-1993). Located at 74-5035B Queen Kaahumanu Highway. Hawaii Forest & Trail staff would like to help you discover the Hawaii they know and love. The nature adventures showcase the island’s amazing diversity, from private waterfalls to soaring mountain summits and an active volcano. All tours are fully catered and outfitted, and feature relaxed, easy walks led by professionally trained, interpretive guides who share with you the landscapes, legends and life of Hawaii. www.hawaii-forest.com Hula Kai ( on Map 1, J-1) (808-345-3340). Hula Kai is a luxurious, 55-foot power catamaran that combines first-class comfort with exhilarating cruising speeds to many spectacular locations along the South Kona Coast. Features include individual seats, freshwater showers, private restrooms, expansive deck space and personalized service. The experienced, lifeguard-certified crew makes your underwater journey fun, safe and educational, with high-quality snorkel equipment. Each expedition includes scrumptious refreshments. Join Hula Kai on a journey you’ll never forget. www.fair-wind.com Kamanu Charters ( on Map 1, E-1) (808-329-2021). Hop aboard the catamaran Kamanu for an uncrowded, 3½-hour adventure to Pawai Bay. Relax while you glide over blue waters in quiet comfort as the breeze fills the sails of Kona’s popular sailing catamaran. Snorkel amid multitudes of rainbow-hued reef fish while looking for endangered sea turtles and elusive manta and eagle rays. Explore the amazing under- water terrain of coral-encrusted lava archways, ledges and caves in the protected bay. A tropical lunch is included, with complimentary beer, wine, juice and sodas. Departs daily at 9 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. from Honokohau Marina. www.kamanu.com 3 12 4 Ahuena Heiau Photo by Alberto Loyo / Shutterstock.com 22 HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE March-June 2015
  • 23. Kona Style ( on Map1-A, D-4) (808-936-1323). Explore the majestic Kona Coastline while you sail through the rich history of this sacred island onboard the Noa Noa, a 50-foot sailing catamaran. Venture to “secret spots” to snorkel lush coral gardens. Watch for tropical fish, turtles, dolphins, manta rays and whales (seasonal). Delight in tropical fruit platters, pastries, a deli-style lunch and an exotic cocktail from the full bar. Enjoy the cool island breezes from the shaded cabin or suspended over the ocean in a trampoline net on the morning, afternoon and sunset adventures. www.konasnorkelandsail.com Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation ( on Map 2, A-2; on Map 3, J-3) (808-345-6600). Two locations: GPS 731944 Hao St. in Kailua-Kona and GPS 797469 Hawaii Belt Road in Kainaliu. This coffee is grown at the highest elevation of any coffee in Hawaii, and on the largest organic coffee farm in the state, as well. Come join the free daily tours, offered every hour. You can also make an appointment for a VIP tour or a “roast master for a day” class. On the VIP tours, see lava tubes and green tea, cacao (chocolate) and vanilla growing. Mountain Thunder offers Japanese tours Monday through Friday or visit the café at the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel. www.mountainthunder.com Ocean Encounters ( on Map 1, E-1) (808-484-9150). Have the encounter of a lifetime on a Kona coastline tour. Join majestic dolphins in the water and see humpback whales making their yearly migration to Kona. Witnessing these exquisite creatures in their natural environment is something you won’t soon forget. All Ocean Encounters include snacks and drinks, snorkel gear, lights and wetsuits, with plenty of shaded areas during the day, and a warm cabin for Manta Ray Night Snorkel adventures. Ocean Encounters—sightings are guaranteed, or you get another trip free. www.SwimWithDolphinsAndMantas.com Paradise Helicopters ( on Kona International Detail Map) (866-876-7422). Enjoy unique, fun and flexible air adventures across Hawaii Island. Feel the volcanic power of lava and ride with the doors off or hover next to 2,000-foot waterfalls as you photograph the remote beauty of the rain-forest valleys and green-sand beach. These helicopter tours offer diverse adventure options. Whether you are departing from Kona or Hilo on Hawaii Island, or from its exclusive helipad on the North Shore of Oahu, Paradise has exceptional pilots and awesome aircraft ready to show you all the amazing things there are to see in Hawaii. This is one flight you will remember for a lifetime. www.paradisecopters.com Seahorse Farm ( on Map 1, B-1) (808-329-6840). See the world’s only living and breeding gene bank of seahorses and sea dragons on fun, educational and interactive tours. Explore 8 4 1 4 1 1 Explore Enjoy Dining: Dairy Queen / Orange Julius Genki Sushi McDonalds Panda Express Subway Taco Del Mar Ultimate Burger Services: AT&T Bank of Hawaii Century 21 All Islands Go Wireless Supercuts Trixx Beauty Salon T-Mobile - Coming Soon Shopping: Hawaiian Island Creations Jeans Warehouse Office Max Petco Ross Dress for Less Sports Authority The Vitamin Shoppe Target Kona’s destination for SHOPPING DINING& www.konacommons.com Located at 74-5450 Makala Blvd Gateway to Historic Kailua Village
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  • 25. Kona the science and solutions for ocean conservation on the 3-acre, oceanfront seahorse farm that is home to more than 30 endangered species. Great for families and all ages. www.seahorse.com Sea Paradise ( on Map 1, I-2) (808-322-2500). A “must do” says the Travel Channel. Depart from Keauhou Bay aboard the luxurious Hokuhele, a 50-foot sailing catamaran. Enjoy a tropical-style breakfast while cruising along the Kona Coast to Kealakekua Bay, a marine preserve and home of the Captain Cook Monument. Snorkel the pristine waters of the bay, known to locals as the finest snorkeling on the Big Island. After your snorkel adventure, dine on a sumptuous deli buffet lunch. From Kelakekua Bay, head to Red Hill for more snorkeling or just relaxation. At night, visit “Manta Village” and see the magnificent manta rays up close. www.seaparadise.com 11 Sea Quest Rafting ( on Map 1, J-1) (808-329- 7238). Sea Quest has been snorkeling the Kona Coast since 1988. It specializes in small groups and narrow sea caves to provide its guests unique and intimate snorkeling adventures in one of the most unusual and beautiful places on Earth. Because it departs from Keauhou Bay, the closest harbor to the best snorkel sites on the island, it is able to offer three different snorkel tours to multiple snorkel sites and different experiences designed to fit anyone’s budget or sense of adventure. It also offers a unique wild-dolphin swim combined with a coral-reef snorkel tour that includes a deli lunch. www.seaquesthawaii.com Snorkel Bob’s Kona ( on Map 1, F-1; on Map 1-A, C-5) (808-329-0770). “Only I, Snorkel Bob, have Snorkel Bob Brand Masks, including the SEAMO™ and the SEAMO BETTA™ if you need Rx lenses. The Bubba snorkels drain splash water, block backwash and clear easy as ptuey!” What’s more? Boogie- boards, beach chairs and 24-HOUR INTERISLAND EXPRESS GEAR RETURN. SB’s 250-page fish photography book, Every Fish Tells a Story, is $7.50 with a snorkel set for the week (reg. $28). Book two seats on most activities and get a FREE boogie- board or turtle beach bag for the week (reg. $26). All island locations open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Located off Alii Drive, behind the Royal Kona Resort. Voted “Best Snorkeling Company” by Hawaii Magazine readers. www.snorkelbob.com 12 6 14 Photocourtesyof SeaQuestRafting OFF PER COUPLE!$20when you call direct and mention this ad. CALL 329-RAFT Cannot be combined with other discounts. Snorkeling Kona Since 1988! Swim with Wild Dolphins PLUS Snorkel Kealakekua Bay(conditions permitting) Tropical Snacks PLUS Deli Lunch Explore the Kona Coastline & Watch for Whales Check In 8:00 AM Depart 8:15 AM Return 1:15 PM DOLPHIN ENCOUNTER LUNCH 5HOURS SHADE DOLPHIN SWIM SNORKEL SITES LUNCH 5HOURS 3 SHADE EXPEDITION SOUTH KONA CAPTAIN COOK EXPRESS NIGHT MANTA EXPERIENCE Snorkel Kealakekua Bay (Capt. Cook Monument) Afternoon Tour & Great for Beginners Tropical Snacks Sea Caves, Lava Tubes, Look for Dolphins & Whales Check In 12:30 PM Depart 12:45 PM Return 3:45 PM Night Snorkel with Wild Manta Rays Kona Sunset from the Water Snacks and Hot Chocolate Check In Time Varies Seasonally SNACKS 1.5HOURS AT NIGHT www.SeaQuestHawaii.comwww.SeaQuestHawaii.com DELUXE MORNING ADVENTURE Snorkel Kealakekua Bay (Capt. Cook Monument) Snorkel Honaunau Bay (Place of Refuge) Tropical Snacks Sea Caves, Lava Tubes, Look for Dolphins & Whales Check In 7:45 AM Depart 8:00 AM Return at Noon Snorkel Kealakekua & Honaunau Bays Bonus Third Snorkel Site (Location Varies) Tropical Snacks PLUS Deli Lunch Sea Caves, Lava Tubes, Look for Dolphins & Whales Check In 8:00 AM Depart 8:15 AM Return 1:15 PM Snorkeling Konna Since 1988! OUTH K OU EDITION SPXXPEEX HIN ENCCODOLP t 8:15 AM Rrepack In 8:00 AM DChe oastline & Wona Ce the KKoExplor eli LS DUUSLal Snacks PopicrTTr a Bayuekealakkeel KKeS SnorkUUSLP olphinsild Dwim with WWiS ONA OUNTER OUTH KKO eturn 1:15 PMt 8:15 AM R halesch for WWhatce & WWa uncheli L ermittingonditions pc((ca Bay L MIWS NIHPLOD HADES HOURS5 UNCHL OOK EXP OUTH K t 8:00 AM R EDITION SPXXPEEX t 8:15 AM R AIN CTTAAPCCA CBay ((Cekealakel KKeSnork repack In 8:00 AM DChe ok for Do, Less,uba TTu, Lavess,avea CS eli LS DUUSLal Snacks PopicrTTr e (Lel Sitted Snorkus ThironB a & Honaunau Baysuekealakel KKeSnork repack In 7:45 AM DChe ok for Do, Less,uba TTu, Lavess,avea CCaS al SnacksopicrTTr lael Honaunau Bay (PPlSnork Ca Bay ((Cuekealakel KKeSnork ORNING ADUXE MDEL RESS ONAOUTH KKO eturn 1:15 PM OOK EXP ument)ok MonCpttC on t 8:15 AM R haleolphins & WWhok for D uncheli L ries)aation VVacoe (L a & Honaunau Bays eturn at Not 8:00 AM R halesolphins & WWhok for D ge)efuge of Rlac ument)ok Mono. 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  • 26. Indich Collection’s Hawaiian Rugs ( on Map 1-A, C-2) (808-329-6500). Inspired by the beauty and culture of Hawaii, it offers a unique selection of floral designs as well as tropical foliage and petroglyph-inspired rugs. Persian and decorative carpets in wool and silk are also offered. Worldwide shipping. Open daily in Kailua-Kona in the Kona Industrial Park at 74-5599 Luhia St. www.hawaiianrugs.com Kona Bay Books ( on Map 1-A, C-1) (808-326-7790) ( on Map 5, C-5) (808-935-9234). Located at 74-5487 Kaiwi St. and, in Hilo, 829-A Leilani St. Residents know this is where to shop for used books, CDs and DVDs at a fraction of retail prices. Open daily 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. www.konabaybooks.com Kona Commons ( on Map 1, E-1; on Map 1-A, C-1). Located at 74-5450 Makala Blvd. Kona Commons is a premier shopping destination with great shops such as Target, Jeans Warehouse, Hawaiian Island Creations, Ross Dress for Less, Sports Authority and Petco. Stop in for a bite at Panda Express, Ultimate Burger, Genki Sushi and more. www.konacommons.com KTA Super Stores ( on Map 1, I-2 ; on Map 1-A, B-2) (808-322-2311; 808-329-1677) KTA Super Stores is ready to satis- fy all your vacation needs with six locations in Hilo, Kona, Waimea and Waikoloa. Find meals to go, beer, wine, Hawaii coffee and gifts, beach supplies and more at KTA, serving the Big Island since 1916. www.ktasuperstores.com 4 3 12 5 1 511 26 HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE March-June 2015 Kona Sunlight on Water ( on Map 1, E-1) (808-896-2480). Ever dreamed of swimming with free dolphins in their natural habitat? Or swimming with manta rays at night? Kona is one of the few places you can experience both, which have been voted two of the top-10 activities in Hawaii. Sunlight on Water offers after- noon snorkel trips to the pristine waters of Kealakekua Bay, the best coral reef in Hawaii. All gear, snacks, drinks and photos provided on all activities. The lifeguard-certified crew will be your swim guides. Book two or more trips and save! www.SunlightOnWater.com 4 Bite Me Fish Market Bar & Grill ( on Map 1, E-1) (808-327-3474 (FISH). Located in Honokohau Harbor, 74-425 Kealakehe Parkway, No. 17, near the airport. Not many restaurants can say they catch their own fish; however, Bite Me is not like other restaurants. Hidden away in the Honokohau Harbor, Bite Me is known for its affordable, tasty tacos, friendly staff, cold beer, fine wines and freshly caught Island fish. Hawaii’s best-kept secret isn’t going to stay secret for long, so come on in and grab a bite today. It has the freshest fish and chips you’ll find anywhere. www.bitemefishmarket.com Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. ( on Map 1-A, D-5) (808-331- 8442). Located on Alii Drive in Kailua-Kona. Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. captures the charm and American spirit that made Forrest Gump a smash hit. Bubba Gump is famous for shrimp, any way you like it, friendly service and an entertain- ing, down-home atmosphere. Shrimp is the specialty, but in this fun, casual setting there is definitely something for everyone. From award-winning ribs to out-of-this-world seafood dishes and, of course, remarkable desserts, you’re sure to go home happy. www.bubbagump.com Daylight Mind Coffee Co. ( on Map 1-A, D-5) (808-339- 7824). Located in Waterfront Row at 75-5770 Alii Drive. Visit the premier oceanside location for locally sourced cuisine and extraordinary coffee, freshly roasted on site. Whether you’re interested in sitting down to a satisfying meal, exploring the nuanced world of coffee or delighting in artisanal bread, you will enjoy the beautiful, two-story loft, where you can learn and relax. www.daylightmind.com Kona Brewing Co. ( on Map 1-A, D-1) (808-334-BREW, 808-334-2739). Located on Kuakini Highway, minutes from downtown. Enjoy a huge selection of Hawaii’s best craft ales, lagers and fresh local cuisine. Daily tours and tastings are offered. Extensive gift shop. Open for lunch and dinner daily. www.konabrewingco.com 4 13 12 2 LET’S EAT Outback Steakhouse Kona ( on Map 1, F-2; on Map 1-A, D-5) (808-326-2555). Located in the Coconut Grove Marketplace. Every day, Outback starts fresh to create the flavors the mates crave. Best known for grilled steaks, chicken and local fresh fish of the highest quality, Outback also offers a wide variety of crisp salads and freshly made soups and sides. Open for dinner 4 to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday, lunch and dinner 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. www.outback.com Patricio’s Mexican Taqueria ( on Map 1-A, B-2; on Map 1, C-2) (808-334-1000 and 808-334-1008). Located in the Kona Coast Shopping Center, 74-5586 Palani Road, next to Payless Shoes and at Matsuyama’s Shopping Center, 73-4038 Hulikoa Drive, next to Kona Mountain Coffee. This authentic Mexican taqueria features food made from scratch, often with local ingredients from Big Island farmers. Patricio’s is known for delicious food at affordable prices, homemade salsas, cold beer, sangria and daily specials. Mexican cuisine is made with fresh, healthy, natural ingredients and home- made recipes. Patricio’s is a casual, family-friendly restaurant that offers dining in as well as takeout. www.patriciostaqueria.com 7 15 5 2 LET’S SHOP Photocourtesyof IndichCollection’sHawaiianRugs
  • 27. *The Travel Channel called it - “The Hottest Helicopter Ride on Earth!” *The Travel Channel called it - “The Hottest Helicopter Ride on Earth!” Hawai‘i’s Most Unique Landing Adventures Hawai‘i Island’s ONLY True Circle Island Helicopter Tour Exclusive! DOORS-OFF* over K lauea Volcano Departing from Kona, Hilo and the North Shore of O‘ahu 808-969-7392 www.paradisecopters.com Departs from Hilo Departs from Kona Departs from Kona S h as Hawai‘i Is a d Sh m s p i h U i dSas N pa a a V ca B ack Sa d B ach G Sa d B ac h
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  • 29. SEAFOOD PLATTER PLATE OPEN 10AM – 9PM HONOKOHAU HARBOR ౹౹౹౹౹౹ www.BITEMEFISHMARKET.com 808-327-FISH (3474) Very Close To Airport See Map 1, E-1 • ALWAYS-LOCAL FRESH FISH, NEVER FROZEN OR IMPORTED. • THE ONLY RESTAURANT YOU CAN SIT AT THE DINING BAR AND WATCH THE FRESH FISH COMING OFF THE BOAT TO THE MARKET & KITCHEN. X ậ Queen Kaahumanu Hwy. l AIRPORT KONA k KealakehePkwy. Kealakehe Pkwy.Gas Station Take 3rd Left Here X FRESHEST FISH & CHIPS IN KONA FISH & CHIPS AND FISH TACOS All day-Every Day FREE 8X10 Photo of yourcaught fish over 20lbs. WE WILL COOK YOUR CATCH AT OUR RESTAURANT FOR YOU www.BITEMESPORTFISHING.com|808-936-3442 2011 “BEST OF THE NORTH & WEST HAWAII NEWS” 2012 “CERTIFICATE OF EXCELLENCE FOR BEST FISHING CHARTER ” KIDS OF ALL AGES WELCOME! 1/2, 3/4, FULL DAY & SHARE CHARTERS Tim’s Awesome Smoke Fish Dip Dine in Only. Must Present Coupon. Cannot Be Combined. 7-20-2015 Dine in Only. Must Present Coupon. Cannot Be Combined. 7-20-2015 Dine in Only. Must Present Coupon. Cannot Be Combined. 7-20-2015 1/2 POUND Peel and eat Shrimp 1/2 POUND Snow Crab legs boiled potatoes corn on the cob HDG HDG HDG
  • 30. 30 HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE March-June 2015 South Kona in house, from sauces and dressings to desserts. Enjoy a cocktail or an ice-cold draft beer at the new full bar or on the beautiful ocean-view lanai. Open daily 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. www.anniesislandfreshburgers.com Rays on the Bay Restaurant ( on Map 1, J-2) (808-930- 4949). Located at the Sheraton Kona Resort and Spa at Keauhou Bay, 78-128 Ehukai St., Kailua-Kona. The coast’s coolest dining hot spot is perched on lava cliffs so close to the ocean, you’ll have the world’s only tableside view of giant manta rays, spectacular sunsets and delicious, Island-inspired cuisine. Signature cocktails and the ice-cold beer all served with live, local entertainment nightly. www.RaysontheBay.com Donkey Balls Store and Factory ( on Map 2, A-2) (808-322-1475). Located 8 miles south of Kona, in Kainaliu. Visit the original Donkey Balls factory, featuring Donkey Balls, Goat Balls, more than 70 chocolate confections, Hawaiian-made treats and gifts. Sample Donkey Balls’ gourmet chocolate and 100-percent Kona coffees. See your chocolate made daily, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. www.donkeyballstore.com Kimura Fabrics ( on Map 2, A-2) (808-322-3771) This cheery, old-fashioned general store in the heart of Kainaliu has been in business for more than 70 years, specializing in every brand of pattern, with one of the state’s largest selections of fabrics, including batiks and imported silks. Open Monday through Saturday 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. 13 2 1 InKeauhou,at the end of Alii Drive, Kamehameha III Road connects with Highway 11, which heads south into Kona coffee country through the towns of Kealakekua and Captain Cook (see Map 2, South Kona). Set aside some time to explore St. Benedict’s Painted Church ( on Map 2, E-3) and Puuhonua o Honaunau ( on Map 2, E-1), an important historical site where you can learn a great deal about Hawaiian culture. Greenwell Farms Estate Coffee ( on Map 2, B-1) (888-592-5662). Producing only 100-percent pure Kona coffee, this estate is situated on 35 acres of prime land at an elevation of 1,500 feet. A family- owned business since 1850, it continues to maintain a tradition of high quality, which can be tasted in every cup of Greenwell Estate Coffee. Open daily 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. www.greenwellfarms.com Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation ( on Map 2, A-2; on Map 3, J-3) (808-345-6600). Two locations: GPS 731944 Hao St. in Kailua-Kona and GPS 797469 Hawaii Belt Road in Kainaliu. This coffee is grown at the highest elevation of any coffee in Hawaii, and on the largest organic coffee farm in the state, as well. Come join the free daily tours, offered every hour. You can also make an appointment for a VIP tour or a “roast master for a day” class. On the VIP tours, see lava tubes and green tea, cacao (chocolate) and vanilla growing. Mountain Thunder offers Japanese tours Monday through Friday or visit the café at the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel. www.mountainthunder.com Paleaku Peace Gardens Botanical Sanctuary ( on Map 2, D-3) (808-328-8084). Located at 83-5401 Painted Church Road in Captain Cook. This hidden treasure of tropical beauty is Paleaku, a 7-acre botanical garden with a unique collection of rare plants and exotic flowers. Stroll on easy paths and view ancient petroglyphs, a labyrinth and the world’s first astronomy garden of the Milky Way. Open Tuesday through Saturday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday by appointment only. Affordable admission. www.paleaku.com Annie’s Island Fresh Burgers ( on Map 2, A-2) (808-324-6000). Located eight miles south of Kona in the Mango Court Center. Annie’s serves gourmet burg- ers, salads, fresh fish, desserts and vegetari- an treats. Only Big Island, grass-fed beef is used, and as much local and organic produce as possible, much from its own on-site garden. Annie’s makes everything 8 7 5 4 1 6 3 LET’S PLAY LET’S EAT LET’S SHOP This national historical park, which has been restored to the way it looked prior to the 1700s, is the ideal place to travel back in time for a glimpse of life in ancient Hawaii. Designated by early Hawaiians as a puuhonua (place of refuge), Honaunau was an oasis along the shoreline to which defeated warriors and kapu-breakers could flee, avoiding death. Today, visitors to the park can take self-guided tours, as well as listen to an orientation by park rangers in the amphitheater, to learn about the historical significance of the refuge. PuuhonuaoHonaunau OceanImagePhotography/Shutterstock.com
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  • 32. HawaiiIslandRecommendedBeaches HOW TO BE A SMART TRAVELER: When you are having fun on your vacation, it’s easy to let your guard down. Here in Hawaii, even paradise has its bad apples, so there are some common-sense precautions to keep in mind: Never carry excess cash and never lock any valuables, such as cameras, in your rental car. Never swim at a beach alone and, wherever possible, select beaches with a lifeguard. Never leave your valuables unattended on the beach. Keep all valuables in the hotel safe, or in a safe place. In general, conduct yourself as you would back home. In the event of any emergency, you can dial 911 from any pay phone without depositing any money. STILL NEED HELP? The Visitor Aloha Society of Hawaii (VASH) was created to “Share the Aloha” of our Island home with visitors affected by crime, accidents, medical emergencies and other adversities. After filing a police report, VASH services are provided on Oahu: 808-926-8274, Maui: 808-244-3530, Kauai: 808-482-0111, and the Big Island, Hilo: 808-756-1472 Kona: 808-756-0785. Don’t bury your head in the sand—be safe and take your valuables with you. 32 HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE March-June 2015 KONA Honokohau      63 Kahalu’u Beach Park        63 Kuki’o Beach     68 Old Airport Rec. Area       65 Kealakekua Bay     66 White Sands Beach Park        66 KOHALA Anaeho’omalu Beach        68 Hapuna State Beach        68 Spencer Beach Park        68 Lapakahi State Historic     71 Keokea Beach Park     71 HAMAKUA Laupahoehoe Point Park     72 Kolekole Beach Park     72 HILO Coconut Island Park      74 Reeds Bay Park    74 Onekahakaha Beach Park        74 PUNA-KA’U Isaac Hale Beach Park    12 MacKenzie State Rec. Area   12 Punalu’u Beach Park       77 Whittington Park   77 swimming snorkeling restrooms freshwater parking sandybeach lifeguard mappage A s the youngest in the Hawaiian chain, the Hawaii Island is in a growing phase, with active volcanoes that add real estate to the southern shoreline as lava flows into the sea. And while many areas of the island are still covered with jagged lava, the west side of the island is home to many top-ranked white sandy beaches. You’ll also find black, gray and green sand beaches as well as oceanfront parks all around the island to enjoy. Hapuna State Beach $9/Week Captain Cook Snorkel Trips Rx Masks 24 Hour Interisland Gear Return FREE Boogie Board when you book 2 seats on most activities. Kailua-Kona 329-0770 Kohala/Waikoloa 885-9499 @ The Shops at Mauna Lani SB Kailua-Kona SB Mauna Lani
  • 33.
  • 34. PhotosbyBrettUprichard;MarisaEstivill/Shutterstock.com Kohala TopDriveGuidePicks Located on the sunny Kohala Coast, HAPUNA BEACH gets high marks as one of America’s finest beaches, graced with white sand, lots of sun and pristine waters. I PAGE 36 POLOLU VALLEY, which equals nearby Waipio Valley’s natural grandeur, features a scenic look- out and a relatively easy hike down to the beach. I PAGE 38 KAPAAU’S claim to fame— besides its small-town charm—is being home to the original statue of King Kamehameha, located on Highway 270. I PAGE 37 34 HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE March-June 2015
  • 35. Make A Difference Be Inspired and Reinvigorate your connection to the ocean while swimming with dolphins and supporting vital marine conservation. Learn More dolphinquest.com A portion of the proceeds supports vital marine education, conservation and research.
  • 36. Kohala Kamuela Photo by Brett Uprichard Kohala is a land of contrasts. Often referred to as “the gold coast,” the area between Kona and North Kohala is home to the island’s best white-sand beaches and some of the finest hotels in the world. Kohala is also a land of lush green hills, cattle ranches and the Kohala Mountain Range. Although primarily known for its beaches (including world-famous Hapuna Beach) and nearly perfect weather, there are multitudes of other daytime activities to enjoy here: Shop the unique stores and boutiques or go for a horseback ride; hike and explore the historical sites or take an aerial tour of the beautiful Kohala landscape. After a day in the sun, visitors can enjoy a spectacular sunset and take the drive north for a delicious dinner at one of the many fine restaurants in Hawi, Kawaihae and Waimea. Among the points of interest are Puukohola Heiau ( on Map 3, C-1) and Lapakahi State Historical Park ( on Map 3-A, B-1). Puukohola Heiau is the sacred Hawaiian site where Kamehameha made initial moves to unite the Hawaiian Islands, which he eventually accomplished just before the turn of the 19th century. At Lapakahi State Historical Park, visitors can experience what life was like for the average Hawaiian commoner during Kamehameha’s day. This re-creation of a seaside village offers a unique peek into Hawaii’s past. Some of Hawaii’s best beaches are in this area, including Anaehoomalu Beach Park ( on Map 3, F-1) and Hapuna Beach State Recreation Center ( on Map 3, C-1). Hapuna Beach has been rated among the top 10 beaches in the world, noted for its sandy beach, usually calm waters and sunny weather. For a trip back in time, we recommend the wonderful drive to Pololu Valley Lookout ( on Map 3-A, B-3). There are two ways to reach the northernmost coastline of the Big Island: the lower seaside road or the upper road through the mountains. The coastal route (Highway 270) through Kawaihae offers beautiful views of the ocean and tiny secret beaches, and along the way you can often see 12 3 4 11 9 SEE MAPS ON PAGES 68 & 71 PhotosbyAnnaAbramskaya/Shutterstock.com;BrettUprichard 36 HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE March-June 2015 LET’S PLAY Tee up for 18 holes of spectacular golf, snorkel in pristine waters, have the adventure of a lifetime on a thrilling zipline course. LET’S EAT Fresh Big Island fish, passion-fruit margaritas, dreamy Kona coffee and barbecued steaks are just a few of the amazing selections. LET’S SHOP Incredible shopping possibilities are offered up in Kohala, from world-class resort boutiques to fun art galleries that have taken up residence in historic rustic buildings. HAPUNA BEACH STATE RECREATION CENTER This is a perfect beach for the entire family, with great sunbathing, turquoise waters, a white-sand beach and convenient tree shade when you’ve had enough sun. During the times the surf is up, locals come here to enjoy bodysurfing. Always check with on-duty lifeguards for current water conditions.
  • 37. the island of Maui and Mount Haleakala rising in the distance. Highway 250 is a picturesque, winding road that runs upland from Waimea through the Kohala Mountains to the quaint towns of Hawi and Kapaau, home to the historic statue of King Kamehameha the Great ( on Map 3-A, A-2). Take along your cameras to capture shots of the valley. There are some fun shops and casual dining spots in both towns, or you can bring along your own fixings and enjoy a picnic at Keokea Beach Park ( on Map 3-A, A-3). One of the best ways to see the inaccessible part of this region is via Blue Hawaiian Helicopters ( on Map 3, E-2) (808- 961-5600). Blue Hawaiian has a track record of leadership and the finest pilots, with state-of-the-art aircraft, including the all-new, ultra-quiet, ultra-spacious, 21st-century “Eco-Star,” a Blue Hawaiian first. The company was the first in the U.S. to be certified under the rigorous TOPS program for tour helicopter safety. It has a four-camera digital video system and Bose® electronic, noise-cancelling headsets for every guest. Every year since 1998, it has been awarded the FAA’s prestigious “Diamond Certificate of Excellence.” Departures from Hilo and Waikoloa. www.bluehawaiian.com Dolphin Quest ( on Map 3, E-1) (808-886-2875). Located at the spectacular Hilton Waikoloa Village. Enjoy the magical world of dolphins with fun educational programs that allow you to touch, swim with and even kiss a dolphin. Call and make a reservation today. www.dolphinquest.com Hamakua Macadamia Nut Co. ( on Map 3, B-2; on Map 3-A, D-2) (808-882-1690). Located in sunny Kawaihae, at 61-3251 Maluokalani St., off Highway 270. Hamakua Macadamia Nut Co. has been creating mouth-watering, flavored macadamia nuts since 1998, including the original wasabi and, yes, Spam-flavored macadamia nuts. Stop in for a guided tour, to shop for gifts, enjoy free samples of flavored macadamia nuts and chocolates and a complimentary cup of 100-percent Kona, Ka‘u or Hilo coffee while you observe the processing of macadamia nuts. Friendly, fun staff, great customer service and lots of aloha! Open daily 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. www.HawnNut.com 7 8 6 5 214 LET’S PLAY www.hawaiidriveguides.com 37 KAPAAU The North Kohala Coast is a wonderfully quiet region with charming small towns, including Hawi and Ka- paau, home to the original King Kamehameha statue. The famous statue was cast in Italy in the late 1800s, but was lost at sea en route to Hawaii. Eventually it was salvaged off the Falkland Is- lands and brought here, not far from his birthplace. Ka- paau was fortunate to receive the original statue because a replacement statue had al- ready been erected across from Iolani Palace in historic Honolulu. On Kamehameha Day, a holiday celebrated statewide, Kapaau honors the great king’s birth with a parade through the town.
  • 38. Kohala Zipline ( on Map 3-A, A-2) (808-331-3620). Located in Hawi, at 55-5515 Hawi Road. Join Kohala Zipline for a canopy experience like no other. Nine ziplines, five sky bridges and a rappel—all submerged in a rain-forest canopy above the historic lands of King Kamehameha—make this Hawaii’s only world-class aerial trekking course. Whether you’re a zipline enthusiast or first-time adventure seeker, this is truly an unforgettable experience. www.kohalazipline.com Makalei Golf Club ( on Map 3, I-2) (808-325-6625). This beautiful 18-hole championship course overlooks the Kona-Kohala Coast from the slopes of Hualalai, offering a cool, woodland golf experience. The course features challenging play, panoramic views and nesting areas for wildlife, including more than 100 wild peacocks. Voted West Hawaii’s “Best Golf Course” in West Hawaii Today’s Annual Readers’ Choice Awards, and a four-star rating in Golf Digest’s 2008/2009 and 2013 “Best Places to Play.” www.makalei.com Snorkel Bob’s Kohala ( on Map 3, D-1) (808-885-9499). “Only I, Snorkel Bob, have Snorkel Bob Brand Masks, including the SEAMO™ and the SEAMO BETTA™ if you need Rx lenses. The Bubba snorkels drain splash water, block back- wash and clear easy as ptuey!” What’s more? Boogie boards, beach chairs and 24-HOUR INTERISLAND EXPRESS GEAR RETURN. SB’s 250-page fish photography book, Every Fish Tells a Story, is $7.50 with a snorkel set for the week (reg. $28). Book two seats on most activities and get a FREE boogie board or turtle beach bag for the week (reg. $26). All island locations open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Near Waikoloa/Kohala in The Shops at Mauna Lani. Voted “Best Snorkeling Company” by Hawaii Magazine readers. www.snorkelbob.com For a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, check out Star Gaze Hawaii ( on Map 3, C-2) (reservations 808-323-3481). Take a guided tour of the universe in your shorts and aloha shirt from the comfort of sea level at regularly scheduled stargazing sessions at the Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel, Hilton Waikoloa Village and Fairmont Orchid. Reservations are required. Please leave a call-back number. (See coupon page for special offer.) www.stargazehawaii.com Waikoloa Village Golf ( on Map 3, D-3) (808-883-9621 for 24-hour reservations). A Robert Trent Jones Jr.-designed course, Waikoloa Village Golf Club features generous fairways and well-guarded greens. Located approximately at an 800-foot elevation, golfers are treated to spectacular views of five volcanoes and the Kohala coastline. Situated in an arid location, which virtually assures favorable playing conditions 2 9 10 8 5 365 days per year, Waikoloa Village Golf Club is an Island favorite not to be missed. www.waikoloavillagegolf.com Bamboo Restaurant ( on Map 3-A, A-2) (808-889-5555). Hawi, at the junction of Highways 250 and 270, North Kohala. Zagat rates it “Excellent,” “Most Popular” and “Best Bang for Your Buck.” Also voted “Best Restaurant on the Big Island,” featuring innovative and affordable Island-style cuisine and local Hawaiian favorites. Bamboo serves grass fed, Big Island burgers and steaks, free-range chicken, and local, organic produce. Relax in the historic building and lush, tropical atmosphere as you enjoy a passion fruit margarita or mojito—invented here! Your server may dance the hula at any time. Closed Sunday night and Monday. www.bamboorestaurant.info Blue Dragon Coastal Cuisine and Musiquarium ( on Map 3, B-2; Map 3-A, E-2) (808-882-7771). Located in Kawaihae on Highway 270, across from Kawaihae Harbor. Enjoy award-winning coastal cuisine, wonderful live entertainment and dancing under the stars. “Fabulous food, scintillating live music . . . it’s the kind of dining experience everyone hopes to find,” according to a popular Big Island magazine. Open Thursday through Sunday 5:30 p.m. till closing. www.bluedragonhawaii.com Kohala Coffee Mill ( on Map 3-A, B-2) (808-889-5577). Located in Hawi. Known for the best mochas on the island, the mill serves 100-percent Kona coffee and unique house blends, a wide selection of black, green and herbal teas, smoothies, gluten-free treats, bagels, memorable Hawaiian gifts and gourmet products. A great stop for breakfast or lunch and also a large selection of Tropical Dreams ice cream. Check out the delicious homemade Hawaiian fudge with flavors such as passion fruit and chocolate macadamia nut. Also serving, at its finest, North Shore Shave Ice made with natural syrups. Free Wi-Fi. Open Monday through Friday 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. 4 13 1 6 Kohala LET’S EAT 38 HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE March-June 2015 POLOLU VALLEY O ne of Hawaii Island’s most scenic valleys, Pololu was carved out of the steep coastline of North Kohala. The scenic lookout is located at the end of the road, beyond Kapaau. A rela- tively short hike downhill reveals a striking black-sand beach and often stormy surf. There are no lifeguards, so check with folks who are familiar with the current conditions if you wish to enter the water. MarisaEstivill/Shutterstock.com
  • 39. Your Guide to 808.331.3620 kohalazipline.com808.331.3635 hawaii-forest.com Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park / Daytime or Twilight • Canopy Zipline Adventures • Private Waterfalls • Coffee Tours • Big Island Highlights & Culture • Rainforest & Birding • Maunakea Summit • Choose Your Own Adventure / Private & Custom Gaze into the summit of the world’s most active volcano. Soar through a tropical rainforest. Explore hidden waterfalls. Uncover rich history and a vibrant culture. Whatever Big Island journey you seek, our expert guides pave the way for your personal Hawaiian adventure. Full & Half-Day Adventures | All Inclusive & Award Winning
  • 40. INGREDIENTS FOR A PERFECT VACATION H ave a unique adventure, eat to your heart’s content and walk off the extra calories with shopping offered nowhere else on Earth. Now that’s a holiday! Here on the golden coastline of Kohala, where sunny days and glorious weather are unmatched, all the ingredients for a memo- rable vacation are in place. Consider just a few of the options: wake early for a deep-sea fishing adventure, then reward yourself with a fresh fish lunch (even if it’s not your own personal catch of the day). Next, stretch your legs with some window shopping at one of the classy venues along this coast, including Queens’ MarketPlace, Kings’ Shops and the Shops at Mauna Lani. Finish your day with sunset libations and romantic fine dining. There are lots of other options: swimming with dolphins, world-class golf, free Polynesian entertainment and a 4-D Hawaii-themed theater. Check out the gourmet markets and Hawaiian craft shops (including one with collectible ukuleles), or pamper yourself by getting your nails done. Meander past koi ponds, enjoy free local music and go snorkeling at one of the nearby beaches. Locals and visitors alike love to spend time at these attractive centers updating their stylish wardrobes, with every- thing from the latest beachwear to world-class fashions. Pick up an aloha shirt, a colorful muumuu and fun T-shirts for the youngsters. When it comes to food, fun and aloha, Hawaii Island—and the Kohala Coast in particular—makes your holiday an experi- ence to remember forever. The Shops at Mauna Lani Queens’ MarketPlace 40 HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE March-June 2015 Healthways II ( on Map 3-B, C-3) (808-885-6775). Locally owned, it offers fresh organic produce (locally grown whenever possible), herbs and grains. The grocery department includes many gluten- free items. Healthy breakfast and lunch menus are offered daily, including fresh juices and smoothies, using mostly organic products from the in-store deli. It proudly offers a wide selection of supplements and bodycare items. Open Monday through Saturday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 2 Kohala LET’S SHOP Mountain Thunder Café at the Honu Bar ( on Map 3, E-2) (808-885-1480). Located at the Honu Bar at Mauna Lani Bay Hotel. Enjoy 100-percent Kona coffee straight from the Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation: cappuccino, lattes, frappes and espresso. Also come by and enjoy breakfast or lunch, have a glass of wine or local beer, and do some shopping for the folks back home with all the great Mountain Thunder products right there at the café, farm direct. Stop by and take the farm tour. www.mountainthunder.com Ruth’s Chris Steak House ( on Map 3, D-1) (808-887- 0800). Located at The Shops at Mauna Lani, 68-1330 Mauna Lani Drive, on the Kohala Coast. At Ruth’s Chris Steak House, you’ll always find exceptional steaks, selected from the top 2 percent of the country’s beef—broiled in 1,800-degree ovens and served sizzling hot on 500-degree plates, so every bite is hot and delicious. This New Orleans-inspired cuisine features the finest USDA prime steaks, fresh Island seafood, an award- winning wine list and a variety of appetizers, side dishes and desserts. An Island favorite. Just follow the sizzle to Ruth’s Chris Steak House. www.ruthschrishawaii.co 7 9 PhotocourtesyofRuth’sChrisSteakHouse
  • 41. KTA Super Stores ( on Map 3-B, B-2) (808-885-8866). KTA Super Stores is ready to supply all your vacation needs with six locations in Hilo, Kona, Waimea and Waikoloa. Find meals to go, beer, wine, Hawaii coffee and gifts, beach sup- plies and more at KTA, serving the Big Island since 1916. www.ktasuperstores.com Queens’ MarketPlace ( on Map 3, F-2) (808-886-8822). Located in the beautiful Waikoloa Beach Resort. If you’re searching for special gifts to take home, check out the hidden gems at the Queens’ MarketPlace. You’ll find shopping, din- ing, entertainment and activities at “The Gathering Place of the Kohala Coast.” Open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. www.QueensMarketPlace.net The Shops at Mauna Lani ( on Map 3, D-1) (808-885- 9501). In the heart of the Kohala Coast, The Shops at Mauna Lani is the place for dining, art, shopping and entertainment. Find that special gift and wonderful dining at some of the best shops and restaurants on the island. The Shops at Mauna Lani offers the perfect balance between brand-name quality and unique local craftsmanship. You will find the only 4D Adventure Ride movie theater in the state, as well as Foodland Farms, a full- service gourmet market complete with deli and bakery. The free Polynesian hula shows feature amazing fire dancing every Monday and Thursday at 7 p.m. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. www.TheShopsAtMaunaLani.com The Gallery at Bamboo ( on Map 3-A, A-2) (808-889- 1441). Located inside Bamboo Restaurant in historic Hawi Town, sip a lilikoi margarita as you enjoy this colorful, fun and affordable gallery. The gallery features local artists in silk, oils, watercolors and pencil, Hawaiian and Pacific handcrafts, jewelry, wall art, kitchen items and books. The eclectic gallery offers handmade Hawaiian soaps and lotions, a large selection of Hawaiian quilts, Hawaiian koa wood pieces and other one- of-a-kind items from the Islands. The Gallery at Bamboo has plenty of T-shirts and boasts one of the largest collections of adult and children’s aloha shirts on the island. Closed Monday. 3 9 4 1 Anaehoomalu Bay Photo by Kuma / Shutterstock.com PhotoscourtesyofTheGalleryatBamboo
  • 42. 42 HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE March-June 2015 Hamakua TopDriveGuidePicks An important and well-populated place in Hawaii’s earliest days, WAIPIO VALLEY is now home to a small community of farmers who grow taro, an important staple in the Hawaiian diet. I PAGE 45 The ruggedly beautiful peninsula of LAUPAHOEHOE was the site of a disastrous tsunami on April 1, 1946, commemorated today by a memorial to those who perished. I PAGE 45 PhotosbyBrettUprichard;DarrellIshii HONOKAA TOWN is one of our favorite small towns in the Hawaiian Islands, noted for its quiet charm, creative little shops and fun spots to grab a bite to eat. I PAGE 44
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  • 44. Hamakua The Hamakua district is famous for its elevated coastline, once covered with vast fields of sugar cane that are today being replaced by a variety of diversified crops, including world-class coffee and colorful tropical plants. The fascinating heritage of the early plantation days is still evident in towns like Honokaa and Laupahoehoe, where a train museum transports you back in time. Rugged gulches spanned by old railroad bridges dot this wetter, windward side of the island, a vibrant green jungle fed by streams and waterfalls flowing down the sides of 13,796-foot Mauna Kea, the highest point in the Hawaiian Islands. The grand effect of these geological rumblings can be seen all along the coast, from Waipio Valley south to Hilo along Highway 19. Save time to explore the quiet charm of old Honokaa Town and nearby villages, with plantation-era stores that keep traditional Hawaiian arts alive. SEE MAP ON PAGE 72 Key points of interest include Waipio Valley Lookout ( on Map 4, B-3), Kalopa State Park ( on Map 4, D-2), the 4-mile scenic drive past Onomea Bay ( on Map 4, J-2) and Honokaa Town (Map 4, C-2). Both the lookout and park are great places for midday picnic lunches, or you can drop into Honokaa for a hot sit-down meal, followed by some leisurely shopping in the quaint shops of this former plantation town. Photo opportunities abound all along the coast, where waterfalls and cliffs meet the sea. Among the jewels of Onomea is Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden ( on Map 4, J-3) (808-964-5233). Located at Onomea Bay, 7 miles north of Hilo on the 4-mile scenic route. A tropical rainforest nature preserve, the garden has more than 2,000 species of tropical flowers, plants and colorful birds, in- cluding macaws. Waterfalls and streams wind throughout the forest and palm jungle. The visitor center features a museum and Garden Gift Shop. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Last entry is at 4 p.m. Admission is charged; children 5 and under free. www.hawaiigarden.com RideTheRim ( on Map 4, B-2) (808-775-1450). The entire family can have the adventure of a lifetime on a RideTheRim ATV or buggy ride to the top of Waipio Valley. See the longest black-sand beach and the tallest single-drop waterfall in the state. Three-hour tours are offered twice daily, all with knowledgeable, fun, local guides. Enjoy views into the valley, explore the grotto and plunge into a lava tube, swim in the headwaters of Hiilawe Falls and learn the area’s extraordinary history, from ancient times to today. Enjoy snacks and beverages, too. Get down, get dirty, RideTheRim of Waipio. www.RideTheRim.com 2 3 9 8 1 LET’S PLAY 44 HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE March-June 2015 Hamakua LET’S PLAY Walk through a tropical wonderland, ride the rim of Waipio on an all-terrain vehicle, have a bucket-list adventure on a thrilling zipline. LET’S EAT Fruit—fresh from this verdant land—healthy smoothies and plantation-style plate lunches are among the favorites in Hamakua. LET’S SHOP Carved wooden art, some of the world’s best coffee treats and other Island keepsakes are some of the favorite offerings on the vast Hamakua Coast. PhotosbyBrettUprichard;DarrellIshii;Vacclav/Shutterstock.com;ZipIsleZipLineandSegwayToursatBotanicalWorld; WorldBotanicalGardensatBotanicalWorldAdventures HONOKAA “Downtown” Honokaa is beauti- ful in more ways than one. First, it is historic, with old classics like the People’s Theatre, which dates back to the 1930s. Then there is the quiet rural charm, with fascinating little spots to dine and shop. It’s one of our favorite small towns in Hawaii, with a wonder- ful agricultural heritage.
  • 45. What’s Shakin’ ( on Map 4, I-3) (808- 964-3080). Located on the 4-mile scenic route at Onomea, 1 mile north of Hawaii Tropical Botanical Gardens. Owners Patsy and Tim serve amazing fresh fruit smooth- ies, with much of the fruit grown right on their 23-acre farm. Healthy lunch choices include locally made tamales served with delicious homemade salsa and garden-fresh salad, avocado and fish wraps, and mouth-watering sandwiches. Vegan and gluten-free choices are also available. Sit on the out- side veranda that wraps around this cheery plantation-style building and enjoy the breathtaking view and ocean breeze. Just look for the What’s Shakin’ hula-girl sign holding a delicious fruit smoothie. Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 7 Zip Isle Zip Line and Segway Tours at Botanical World ( on Map 4, I-3) (808-963-5427; toll free 888-947-4753). Located on Highway 19 at mile-marker 16. All the adventure and fun is at Botanical World Adventures. The new, two-wheel stand-up Segway® personal transporters let you glide through the rain forest to waterfalls, lush gardens and more. These unique Segway rain-forest tours are the only botanical Segway tours in Hawaii. Fly through the rain-forest canopy on the seven-stage, family-friendly Zip Isle Zip Line Adventure tour which climaxes with dual ziplines nearly a quarter-mile long. For a unique adventure that can’t be beat, combine a Segway tour with a Zip Line tour. Open daily 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. www.botanicalworld.com 5 LET’S EAT Skyline Eco-Adventures–Akaka Falls Zipline Tour ( on Map 4, I-3) (808-878-8400). Soaring nearly 250 feet over pri- vately owned KoleKole Falls, Skyline Eco-Adventures sets a new standard for family adventure on the Big Island. Its zip- lines pass above jaw-dropping scenery and across unrivaled spans. Skyline is the United States’ first and most experienced zipline operator, making Skyline Eco-Adventures–Akaka Falls the most trusted and proven zipline operation on the Big Island of Hawaii. www.zipline.com/hawaiidriveguide The Umauma Experience ( on Map 4, H-3) (808-930- 9477) is located on the beautiful Hamakua Coast, at 31-313 Old Mamalahoa Highway. Experience Hawaii’s most extreme zipline adventure. Featuring four dual lines and five single lines, this is everything you came to Hawaii to experience. With beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean, a 200-foot suspension bridge, almost 2 miles of ziplines high above the famous Umauma River and numerous waterfalls, you’ll see why Umauma Zipline Experience was voted best zipline in East Hawaii. This is also the home of the famous Umauma Falls triple-tier waterfall, and a beautiful tropical garden with river walks through a palm forest. The experience is fantastic, fun and a feast for the eyes. Open daily 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (See coupon for special offer.) www.ZiplineHawaii.com World Botanical Gardens at Botanical World Adventures ( on Map 4, I-3) (808-963- 5427; toll free 888-947-4753). Located on Highway 19 at mile- marker 16. This popular botani- cal garden showcases ancient history on unique and exciting adventure tours ranging from Segway Glide off-road tours to Zip Isle Zip Line flying tours through the rain-forest canopy. Don’t miss the exclusive Guided Botanical Discovery Tour of the lush gardens with hundreds of orchids, bromeliads and exotic plants (reservations, please). Or enjoy the new Gardens Audio Tour at your leisure. In ad- dition to the gardens, visitors enjoy the world-class maze and Kamaee Waterfall. Enjoy the 360-degree vistas that include Mauna Kea and sweeping ocean views. www.botanicalworld.com 6 4 5 www.hawaiidriveguides.com 45 R ich in Hawaiian legends and natural beauty, Laupahoehoe is also a special place that re- minds us of nature’s potential destructiveness. On April 1, 1946, years before warning systems were in place, an earthquake in the Aleutian Islands generated a tsunami that swept over Hilo and completely inundated the peninsula of Laupahoehoe, killing 20 students and four teachers who were on a field trip that day. More about this tragic event can be learned through the commemorative monument at Laupahoehoe Point and at the Pacific Tsunami Museum in Hilo. LAUPAHOEHOE A t the top of lists for awesome Hawaii Island sights is Waipio Valley Lookout, an amazing aerial view of a lush valley and a long black-sand beach. A steep road leads down to the valley floor, accessible only by foot or by four-wheel-drive vehicles. Most visitors capture the view from the top, taking in the historic region with its patchwork of taro fields, the magnificent cliffs and the black beach often con- trasting with the white foam of crashing waves. WAIPIO VALLEY Photo by Brett Uprichard
  • 46. LIVE IT UP— In the Air! The thrilling new sport of ziplining has taken Hawaii by storm. Some say you haven’t really lived till you experience the adventure of seeing Hawaii Island from this unique perspective. Many of the Big Island’s zipline companies operate on the lush eastern side of the island, where the scenery is as amazing as the adventure. Favorites include a zipline with wonderful views of Akaka Falls, one of Hawaii’s premier attractions, a spectacular falls that cascades dramatically down a sheer volcanic cliff. Nearby is another natural wonder, Umauma, a wonderland carved on the slopes of massive Mauna Kea by the Umauma River. The river breaks into a series of triple-tiered waterfalls. It’s a picture-perfect landscape, topped off with a view of snowcapped Mauna Kea in the winter months. Other favorites include the natural forest canopy in Kohala, on the northern tip of the island, where zipline platforms and arching suspension bridges are placed in majestic trees, offering fabulous views. For more information about how to add a little zip to your Hawaii adventure, check out: www.ZiplineHawaii.com www.zipisle.com www.kohalazipline.com www.zipline.com www.ziplinehi.com Photos courtesy of Kohala Zipline; Umauma Falls and Zipline Experience; Zip Isle at Botanical World; Skyline Eco-Adventures 46 HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE March-June 2015
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  • 48. Hilo TopDriveGuidePicks Dozens of streams and waterfalls—including RAINBOW FALLS—are fed from waters that flow down the slopes of massive Mauna Kea, eventually making their way to the sea. I PAGE 50 LILIUOKALANI GARDENS is a favorite spot for visitors and residents alike, who come here for the garden’s tranquil beauty and excellent views of Hilo Bay and Mauna Kea. I PAGE 53 48 HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE March-June 2015 PhotosbyMichaelWarwick/Shutterstock.com;BrettUprichard;DarrellIshii HILO FARMERS’ MARKET offers the bounty of fruits, vegetables and flowers that are harvested fresh from Hilo farms, as well as fascinating arts and crafts created locally. I PAGE 52
  • 49. Places to go, things to do from a local’s point of view. LIKE US ON Onomea Bay, Hawaii Island PerfectPPP Days Perfect Days Hawaii Reduce your entry fees at 10 of the Big Island’s top museums with the Telephone (808) 963-5091 Destination Hilo strives to offer unique experiences and provide innovative visitor activities. Where your Hawaiian adventure begins... BIG ISLAND MUSEUM Discount Pass BIG ISLAND MUSEUM Discount Pass To purchase GO TO www.destinationhilo.com
  • 50. Hilo SEE MAP ON PAGE 74 T he center of commerce, business and government for the island, Hilo has managed over the years to maintain its small-town charm and reputation as one of the friendliest places in the Hawaiian Islands. While retaining cherished values, Hilo keeps its leading edge with astronomy and research centers, a local branch of the University of Hawaii, and some of the most progressive restaurants on the island. With an abundance of sun, rain and rich volcanic soil, the area is ideal for cultivating colorful tropical flowers, including some of the finest anthurium and orchid varieties in the world. It’s also famous for its lush botanical gardens, historical museums, waterfalls and beautifully maintained public parks. Built around the crescent of Hilo Bay, the town was a trading spot for early Hawaiians and today offers a wonderful array of specialty shops. PhotosbyBrettUprichard;DarrellGrindstaff LET’S STAY Hilo is one of the choice locations to set up accommodations for the perfect “staycation,” combining relaxation with amazing scenery. LET’S PLAY Fly over an active, steaming volcano, travel (figuratively) into space and visit some of the most important cultural sites on the Big Island. LET’S SHOP Fresh-cut flowers and fruits straight from nearby farms, aloha wear for the entire family, cookies and candies you will never forget—all available in Hilo. 50 HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE March-June 2015 Hilo Fishing Photo by Brett Uprichard RAINBOW FALLS O ne of Hilo’s favorite attractions is Rainbow Falls ( on Map 5, B-1), where visitors gather at the lookout for photos of the falls, often graced by early- morning rainbows. The water travels from the lush upper slopes of Mauna Kea, down to nearby Boiling Pots ( on Map 5, B-1) (so named for the turbulence created as water tumbles down the rocky stream bed), then spills into the scenic Rainbow Falls pond. The water continues past the historic Wailuku River Bridge and, ultimately, empties into Hilo Bay. One of the most pleasant places to enjoy a panoramic view of Hilo (with a picnic lunch, perhaps) is at Liliuokalani Gardens ( on Map 5, A-4) and on nearby Coconut Island ( on Map 5, A-4). A stroll around Hilo should include a stop by the Hilo Farmers’ Market ( on Map 5, A-3), where fresh flowers, produce and lo- cal arts are on sale every Wednesday and Saturday morning. With- in walking distance is Wailoa State Park ( on Map 5, A-4). 1 1 10 9 6 8
  • 51. DOWNTOWN HILO Mon-Sat 7am to 9pm Sun 7am to 7pm 321 Keawe St. (808) 935-3751 PUAINAKO 5:30am to Midnight 50 East Puainako St. (808) 959-9111 Pharmacy (808) 959-8700 KEAUHOU 7am to 10pm Keauhou Shopping Center (808) 322-2311 Pharmacy (808) 322-2511 KAILUA-KONA 5am to 11pm Kona Coast Shopping Center (808) 329-1677 WAIMEA 6am to 11pm Waimea Center (808) 885-8866 Pharmacy (808) 885-0033 WAIKOLOA 6am-9pm Waikoloa Village Market (808) 833-1088 Pharmacy (808) 883-3434 HiloKona Waimea Local Produce Kona CoffeeBeverages Beach SuppliesMeals to Go Your One -Stop Vacation Shop. Hawaii Gifts PharmacyFresh Poke & Seafood local food and gifts with friendly, expert service. www.ktasuperstores.com www.waikoloavillagemarket.com $ 10Value Coupon Good 3/1/15 to 6/30/15 or While Supplies Last Free at no additional cost. $50 Purchase must be in a single transaction. This coupon must be presented at the time of purchase. Gift card, alcohol, or tobacco can not be counted towards the total purchase amount. Cannot be doubled, tripled, quadrupled or exchanged for cash or refund. Void if copied or transferred. May not be used in combination with any other offer. LIMIT ONE COUPON PER PERSON, PER TRANSACTION. Valid at any KTA Super Stores or Waikoloa Village Market.
  • 52. 52 HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE March-June 2015 Hilo Hale Kai Hawaii Bed & Breakfast ( on Map 5, A-3; on Map 4, J-2) (808- 935-6330). Enjoy a spectacular oceanfront view of the Pacific, Hilo Bay and Honolii surfing beach. Delicious full breakfast included. Oceanfront rooms, private bath, free WiFi, cable TV, pool and hot tub. Recommended by Frommer’s, Fodor’s, Lonely Planet, TripAdvisor (Certificate of Excellence) and Hawaii, The Big Island Revealed. Turn off Highway 19 at mile-marker 5, toward the ocean, on Paukaa Drive, then right to 111 Honolii Place. Located 2 miles north of Hilo, 10 minutes from the airport. Nightly rates from $169. Credit cards accepted. Smoke-free. www.halekaihawaii.com Blue Hawaiian Helicopters ( on Map 5, A-7; on Map 3, E-2) (808-961-5600). Blue Hawaiian has a track record of leader- ship and the finest pilots, with state-of-the- art aircraft, including the incredible, all- new, ultra-quiet, ultra-spacious, 21st-century “Eco-Star,” a Blue Hawaiian first. The company was first in the U.S. to be certified under the rigorous TOPS program for tour helicopter safety. It has a four-camera digital video system and Bose® electronic, noise-cancelling headsets. Every year since 1998, it has been awarded the FAA’s prestigious “Diamond Certificate of Excellence.” Departures from Hilo and Waikoloa. www.bluehawaiian.com 4 10 15 6 Destination Hilo (808-963-5091). This nonprofit visitor-in- dustry organization has partnered with 11 museums and the County of Hawaii Department of Research and Development to offer the Big Island Museum Discount Pass through the Internet. Drive around Hawaii Island and see its best-known cultural, historical and science centers. Save up to $60 in en- trance fees for two adults by purchasing this pass for only $8. Destination Hilo strives to offer unique Hawaiian experiences and provide innovative visitor activities. www.destinationhilo.com ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawaii ( on Map 5, D-2) (808-969-9700, recorded information, 808-969- 9703, during business hours). The center weaves today’s newest astronomy findings and Hawaii’s cultural heritage into a compelling story of star exploration. The center features more than 100 exhibits, including a 3-D theater, the Kumulipo experience, a replica of sacred Mauna Kea with the night sky overhead and full-dome shows within the state’s largest high-tech planetarium. It is one of the first discovery centers to incorporate both Hawaiian and English languages to enhance the cultural and learning experience. Located at 600 ‘Imiloa Place, off Komohana Street. Open Tuesday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Save time for the ‘Imiloa Sky Garden Restaurant and museum store. (See coupon for special offer.) www.imiloahawaii.org KapohoKine Adventures ( on Map 5, A-3) (808-964- 1000) 224 Kamehameha Ave., on Hilo Bay. Thrill seekers, nature lovers and avid explorers go to KapohoKine Adventures for unforgettable tours. Zipline Through Paradise boasts the longest course on Hawaii Island. Zip nearly 2 miles alongside your best bud, hike through Hawaii Volcanoes National Park or take a helicopter ride. Whatever tour you choose, you’ll get an insider’s view of Hawaii Island. Big groups, lone travelers— more than 400 happy customers on TripAdvisor give top ratings. Visit the Hilo store for quality camping gear. www.kapohokine.com Lava Ocean Tours (808-966-4200 for reservations) Get an up-close and personal view of lava on the popular Lava Boat Tours and Hot Lava Hikes. Hilo also boasts great charter fishing, wildlife and waterfall tours, scuba diving, private charters and volcano boat tours. Three U.S. Coast Guard-rated vessels are available, with comfortable seating for six to 49 passengers. Let the experienced local guides make your Hawaii dream a reality today. www.seelava.com 2 5 LET’S PLAY LET’S STAY Fresh papaya, mango, banana, decorative flowers, locally made arts and crafts—they are all on sale for terrific prices at the Hilo Farmers’ Market. “From dawn till it’s gone,” the market takes place every Wednesday and Saturday in Hilo’s historic district ( on Map 5, A-3). Dating back to 1988, the market now features more than 200 vendors, offering everything from hydroponic vegetables to specialty products created on the Big Island. Food vendors will whip you up a tasty Japanese bento box, Vietnamese spring rolls and refreshing coconut water out of a green coconut opened on the spot. 6 PhotosbyDarrellIshii;HiloBayBooks;DarrellGrindstaff Hilo Bay Photo by Darrell Ishii
  • 53. www.hawaiidriveguides.com 53 Lyman Museum ( on Map 5, B-2) (808-935-5021). Located at 276 Haili St., the Smithsonian-affiliated Lyman Museum tells the story of Hawaii’s islands and its people through exhibits on Hawaii’s volcanic origins, unique flora and fauna, and Hawaiian culture. Admire worldwide collections of sea shells and minerals, and learn about missionary life on a tour of the historic Lyman Mission House, the island’s oldest wooden structure, built in 1839. Open Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. www.lymanmuseum.org. Paradise Helicopters ( on Map 5, A-7) (866-876-7422) Paradise helicopter tours offer unique, fun and flexible air adventures across Hawaii Island. Feel the volcanic power of lava and ride with the doors off or hover next to 2,000-foot waterfalls as you photograph the remote beauty of the rain- forest valleys and green-sand beach. These helicopter tours offer diverse adventure options. Whether you are departing from Kona or Hilo, or from its exclusive helipad on the North Shore of Oahu, Paradise has exceptional pilots and awesome aircraft ready to show you all the amazing things there are to see in Hawaii. This is one flight you will remember for a lifetime. www.paradisecopters.com Safari Helicopter Tours ( on Map 5, B-6) (Hilo: 808-969- 1259; 800-326-3356). Located at the Commuter Air Terminal in Hilo, Safari Helicopters was founded in 1987 by retired Naval Reserves commander Preston Myers. Myers wants passengers to fully enjoy their adventure and considers safety first. He holds to the axiom, “There are old pilots and there are bold pilots, but there are no old, bold pilots.” All his pilots adhere to his high standards of professionalism. Safari features the Super ASTAR 350 B2-7, with air conditioning, Bose-X stereo headsets, an FAA-approved multiple-camera system to record videos and a two-way intercom system. After 26 years of service, it continues to offer FAA 135 certification. Tours depart from Hilo. www.safarihelicopters.com 15 14 3 Big Island Candies ( on Map 5, C-4) (808-935-8890). Located at 585 Hinano St., Big Island Candies has been creating delectable treats since 1977, including its famous diagonally dipped shortbread cook- ies. Stop by for a free sample of cookies and chocolates complemented by a cup of 100-percent Kona coffee and see how Hawaii’s finest confections are made. Special attention to detail and exemplary customer service are what make this a favorite stop for kamaaina (locals) and malihini (visitors) alike. Open 365 days a year from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. www.bigislandcandies.com Hilo Bay Books ( on Map 5, C-5) (808-935- 9234) ( on Map 1-A, C-1) (808-326-7790). Located in Hilo at 829-A Leilani St. and in Kona at 74-5487 Kaiwi St. Residents know this is where to shop for used books, CDs and DVDs at a fraction of retail prices. Open daily 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. www.konabaybooks.com 7 12 3 LET’S SHOP WHAT’S SHAKIN’Located on the 4-mile scenic route at Onomea, one mile north of the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Gardens. Owners Patsy and Tim serve amazing fresh fruit smoothies made with fruit grown right on their 23- acre farm. Healthy lunch choices include locally made tamales served with homemade salsa and garden-fresh salad. Vegan and gluten-free choices are available. Just look for the What’s Shakin’ hula girl sign holding a delicious fruit smoothie. Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. ( on Map 4, I-3)7 Hilo Hattie ( on Map 5, D-5; on Map 6, A-2) has five stores throughout the Hawaiian Islands, making it Hawaii’s largest retailer and manufacturer of Hawaii fashions and gifts. Voted by Hawaii residents as “The Best Place for Hawaiian Fashions” since 2001, Hilo Hattie offers the best values and largest selection of Made-in-Hawaii gifts, including aloha attire, souvenirs, jewelry, gourmet foods and more, with a 100-percent quality guarantee. www.hilohattie.com KTA Super Stores ( on Map 5, E-4) (808-959-9111). Whatever you want—groceries, an ahi poke bowl, beer, wine, Kona coffee, Hawaii-grown produce, chocolate, macadamia nuts, souvenirs, slippers, sunblock or a prescription filled— come and get it at KTA Super Stores, the Big Island’s go-to place for, well, everything. Find wide selections of your fa- vorite brands and taste authentic local specialties. With six convenient locations in Hilo, Kona, Waimea and Waikoloa, feel the aloha at KTA, serving the Big Island since 1916. www.ktasuperstores.com 11 113 LILIUOKALANI PARK AND GARDENS Queen Liliuokalani, Hawaii’s last reigning monarch, donated this 30-acre site to the city of Hilo for all future generations to enjoy. Japanese gardens were planted in the early 1900s, adding a touch of elegance to the curve of Hilo Bay. The park is reached via Banyan Drive, on Waiakea Peninsula. Key features include Waihonu Pond, pagodas and Japanese statuary. Nearby Coconut Island is a good spot to capture another view of Hilo Bay and Mauna Kea in the distance.
  • 54. Puna& Ka‘u Here is a land of fire and ice, with molten lava pouring continuously into the sea, visible from the top of majestic Mauna Loa, one of the world’s most massive mountains. TopDriveGuidePicks HAWAII VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK is the island’s star attraction, featuring an active “drive-in” volcano, an informative visitors’ center and the marvelous Chain of Craters Road. I PAGE 57 Years of volcanic activity and the ocean’s relentless grinding on the lava shoreline have created PUNALUU BLACK SAND BEACH, located on Hawaii Island’s southern coast. I PAGE 58 PhotosbyJuancat,Tralong,DavidLousick/Shutterstock.com One of Puna’s best-kept secrets, a short drive from Hilo, is PANAEWA RAINFOREST ZOO, America’s only zoo located in a tropical rain forest. I PAGE 56 54 HAWAII DRIVE GUIDE March-June 2015