1. Legends of Hawaiʻi Lūʻau

Among the top rated lūʻau in the state, the Legends of Hawaiʻi Lūʻau at Hilton Waikoloa Village is a truly stunning experience. Starting with live music, ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian language) lessons and an intro class to hula dancing for visitors, dinner is preceded by a exhilarating torch run, where the men of Tihati Productions light the torches of Kamehameha Court to the pulsating beat of polynesian drums. From there, visitors can eat and relax as the main event begins and talented performers share moʻolelo (legends) of Hawaiʻi. 

For tickets and more information, visit the Legends of Hawaii Luau’s website. 

2. Voyagers of the Pacific

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Picture this. You’re sitting outside on a beautiful Hawaiian day, watching the sun set over gorgeous Kailua Bay. It’s time for the all-you-can-eat Hawaiian feast promised by the Voyagers of the Pacific lūʻau, which includes ʻono (delicious) local fare like locally sourced poi, teriyaki beef, fresh pineapple and haupia pudding. Stuffed to your heart’s content, it’s time for the show, an epic that tells the story of ancient Hawaiian and Polynesian culture, which ultimately culminates in an awe-inspiring Polynesian fire knife dance. 

For tickets and more information, visit the Voyagers of the Pacific’s website. 

3. Pilikana Waterfront Local Hawaiian-Style Luau

In the heart of Kona town is the Pilikana Waterfront Local Hawaiian-Style Luau, put on by Kona Inn Village. Pre-show activities include keiki (kid)-friendly Polynesian-style tattoos, hula lessons and Polynesian drumming. Through music and song, the show tells stories of Hawaiʻi, while the buffet meal—catered by local favorite Umekes Fish Market Bar & Grill—provided beforehand gives lūʻau-goers an insight at the local fare produced here in Hawaiʻi.

For tickets and more information, visit the Pilikana Waterfront Local Hawaiian-Style Luau’s website. 

4. Waikoloa Sunset Lūʻau

 

 

 

 

 

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Hawaiʻi sunsets and lūʻau go hand-in-hand, combining the islands’ most fiery natural display with a cultural showcase and ʻono food. A seriously fresh dinner—concocted by executive chef Jayson Kanekoa—features J.A. Farms Garden Salad, Waipi’o Valley poi, Keāhole shrimp, hōʻiʻo fern shoots, Pūlehu steaks and grilled chicken with Hamakua mushrooms. After the sun has set and the food has been enjoyed, performers will take diners on a journey through Tahiti, New Zealand, Hawaiʻi and Sāmoa through song and dance. 

For tickets and more information, visit the Waikoloa Sunset Luau’s website here. 

5. Luau at Mauna Kea Beach Hotel

Easily one of the nicest properties and resorts on island, the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel’s lūʻau festivities are as authentic as they are luxurious. Tables are laden with kālua pig, fresh island fish, lomi lomi salmon and piles of locally sourced fruit. Through music, culture and Hawaiian legends, the folks at Mauna Kea Beach Hotel aim to dazzle its guests with magnificent hula performances and dazzling fire knife dances. 
For tickets and more information, visit the Luau at Mauna Kea Beach Hotel’s website here.

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What many consider to be the Olympics of hula, the 2022 Merrie Monarch Festival will be once again rounding up the best and most storied hula halau (hula schools) in the state for a week of nail-biting competition, wonderful performances and cultural parades. 

While the festival is once again welcoming live audiences back for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic, actually getting one of the 2,000 seats in the Edith Kanakaole Stadium—located on the Big Island—is incredibly difficult. People wait all year for the tickets to go live, and they sell out quickly. This year is especially difficult, if not impossible, to get a ticket to watch the event live as there will be no general tickets available, so seats can be reserved for the halau and festival sponsors. 

The cultural crafts fair and parade however are still open to the public, and tickets only cost $5 for general admission. If you really want to catch the competitions live, don’t fret, you can still watch the event unfold from the comfort of your own home.

View the livestream of the 2022 Merrie Monarch Festival here, where you can watch the three major competitions on their respective dates and times. 

The hoike performances mark the beginning of the Merrie Monarch Festival competitions and starts on Wednesday, April 20th. On the 21st, the Miss Aloha Hula contest begins and is one of the most watched as it crowns a single wahine hula dancer as the year’s Miss Aloha Hula. The hula kahiko performances begin on the 22nd and feature ancient styles of dance, while the more modern version of hula—hula ʻauana—is showcased on the 23rd. The awards ceremony will also be broadcasted on the 23rd and all events start at 6 p.m.

If you’re planning to watch a single night of competition—or all four—connect your livestream to your television, invite over some friends and make a night of it. The Merrie Monarch Festival is something to be celebrated—it’s a true showing of Hawaiian culture and arts, and is absolutely worth tuning in for. 

For more information on the 2022 Merrie Monarch Festival’s schedule and events, visit its website here.

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People come to the Big Island to slow down — to disconnect from the day-to-day madness that is life and reconnect with family and the beauty of nature.

The Big Island has more than its fair share of the latter, in fact, that you will need more than a few days to make it from one side of the island to the other. And there are things to do with your family here that you won’t get to do on any other island.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Tops the List of Family Activities

At the top of that list is a visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park where you can go under the Earth to explore a dark, damp lava tube, stand at the edge of a massive volcanic crater, marvel at the mysterious plumes of steam that billow from cracks in the ground, and explore the largest petroglyph field in the Pacific.

After hiking or biking to your heart’s content, make an educational stop at the Jaggar Museum or the visitors center to learn all about volcanoes, Hawaiian rainforests, Hawaiian culture, and the fire goddess Pele.

Beachin’ It with the Family

The beaches on the Big Island are also different from other islands in the Hawaiian island chain. The west side has its beautiful white sand beaches, but on the east and south side of the island, you’ll find glistening black sand shores like Punalu‘u Black Sand Beach on the Ka‘u Coast. This stretch of beach is easily accessible and a favorite sunbathing spot for Hawaiian green sea turtles.

The Big Island also has all the fun beach activities you think of when you imagine spending your days in the salty sea: boogie boarding, snorkeling, and kayaking as well as stand-up paddleboarding (SUP).

Stargazing

Another unique family-friendly Big Island experience is a trip to Mauna Kea. At the Onizuka Center for International Astronomy visitor information station at 9,200 feet, you will find the best amateur observation site on the globe with free evening stargazing programs. (Children under 16 are not allowed past the visitor station.)

Horseback Riding and ATV Adventures

Paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) culture still thrives on the Big Island. Families looking to explore this part of Hawaiʻi’s heritage can saddle up for a horseback tour of pastureland in Waimea or the historic waterfall trails of Waipiʻo Valley. Or, for the older kids, you can hop on the back on an ATV and try some off-roading.

Family Activities in Hilo

The east side of the island is the opposite of the dense resort areas of Kona and Waikoloa. It’s also far wetter. In Hilo, you’ll want to visit botanical gardens, Rainbow Falls, and Akaka Falls (both easy hikes for families).

Head to the ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center, a 40,00 square foot exhibition and planetarium complex, where adults and children alike can learn about the universe and how ancient Hawaiians navigated over vast oceans with the stars as their guide.

Then there’s the Pana‘ewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens, the only naturally occurring rainforest zoo in the U.S. They offer free admission, interesting rainforest animal exhibits, and the best playground in town.

The post Family Activities on the Big Island appeared first on Hawaii.com.

Rare Small-Town Charm

Although Holualoa Village is a trendy hub for artists in the Kona Districts, it’s maintained a small-town charm that’s rare to find in today’s contemporary, hustle and bustle world. Visitors can stroll through the shops to discover local art like handcrafted woodwork, paintings, sculptures and photography.

Holualoa Gallery

Holualoa Gallery is one such destination. Owners Matt and Mary Lovein are about as friendly and down-home as one would expect in this lovely country town. They opened the gallery over 25 years ago and love to chat and visit with locals and visitors alike. Mary is known for her creative work that beautifully expresses the beauty she sees in life. Her husband Matt is famous for his signature piece called a “Wish Keeper” which came to him in a dream. If you stop by the gallery, Mary will be happy to share this inspirational story with you.

The Heart of Kona Coffee Country

Coffee is also considered an art form in Holualoa. This little town in the heart of Kona coffee country runs on caffeine and is proud of their coffee culture heritage. The climate is perfect for growing the temperamental bean, and many coffee orchards in Holualoa offer public tours so visitors can learn about how coffee is grown, harvested and processed. After the tour, sip on some delicious Kona coffee and you’ll be hooked for life!

Annual Holualoa Village Coffee & Art Stroll

If art and coffee are a few of your favorite things, you may want to schedule your visit to Holualoa in November for the annual Holualoa Village Coffee & Art Stroll. Taste a variety of Kona Coffees while chatting with local artists and farmers. Holualoa also hosts a First Friday event every month with new art, music, and creative food vendors.

Slow Food at Holuakoa

If you want to indulge in a gourmet meal, check out Holuakoa Gardens and Cafe. One of the best-kept secrets on the Big Island, this slow food establishment offers high quality cuisine in an ethereal setting of twinkle lights that feels like you’re dining as a character in a fairy tale.

Annual Holualoa Music and Light Festival

Last, but not least, is the annual Holualoa Music and Light Festival in December. Visitors and town folk gather for the lighting of the town Christmas tree, listen to live Christmas music and sample free treats from the charming galleries and shops. You’ll even get a surprise visit from Santa himself. It doesn’t get much better than that!

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Volcano Village

Nestled among the lush rainforest, the charming village of Volcano is well-known for its serene beauty and artsy vibe. A sanctuary for artisans and craftsmen, Volcano Village is set amidst a tranquil fern forest and is the perfect place to get away from it all. Located only minutes from the entrance to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, there is plenty of access to popular hiking trails and stunning, impressionable views. Small in size but big on quality, Volcano Village offers an array of homey bed and breakfasts, a rustic beautiful lodge and even a couple of famously built treehouse rentals. It even gets cool enough at night to curl up in front of a fireplace or wood stove!

Eats and Treats

For foodies, Volcano offers a variety of cafe and restaurants ranging from upscale cuisine at Ohelo’s Cafe to several casual dining options, two Thai restaurants and a Sunday morning farmer’s market. For wine lovers, the Volcano Winery offers tours, tastings and sells locally produced wine. After lunch, stroll through an orchid farm located within the native Olaʻa Rainforest Reserve or check out the Volcano Art Center for their scheduled ‘After Dark in the Park’ nature walks.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Of course, one can’t visit Volcano Village without exploring Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Established in 1916 the park expands over 500 square miles and offers one-of-a-kind hiking, camping and viewing opportunities. The Kīlaueaʻiki crater is one of the most magnificent and moderately easy hikes on Hawaiʻi Island. There are plenty of things to see and do, including lava flows, steam vents, ancient lava tubes and over 150 miles of hiking trails. Located at an elevation of 4,000 feet and within a rainforest, it’s prudent to pack a raincoat and sweater as temperatures can be considerably cooler than the rest of the island.

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Coffee Country

Coffee lovers rejoice because South Kona is renowned for growing some of the most expensive coffee in the world. As you head south out of Kailua-Kona, you’ll head to a higher elevation which is perfect for farming not only coffee but delicious tropical delicacies like passion fruit, guavas, Kona oranges, and macadamia nuts. Stop by the Kona Coffee Living History Farm just outside Captain Cook at mile marker 110 and learn about how the rare beans are grown and enjoy some tasty samples as well. Afterward, turn down Napoʻopoʻo Road toward Kealakekua Bay/Captain Cook’s Monument and Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Park to take in a plethora of historical and culturally significant sites.

Pololu Valley Lookout

From Kona, drive north on the main highway toward the Kohala Coast where you’ll take Highway 270 north toward the little town of Hawi. The black lava fields will evolve into the rolling, lush pasturelands of North Kohala. Keep going until the road ends – you won’t be disappointed! When you turn that last corner, be ready for the eye candy of a lifetime as you soak up the indescribable, dramatic view at Pololū Valley Overlook. It is without a doubt one of the most magnificent, awe-inspiring views on the island.

Waipio Valley Lookout

Sacred Waipiʻo Valley is located on the northern Hāmākua Coastline. Called “The Valley of the Kings,” Waipiʻo is not only dramatically breathtaking but is also an important historical and cultural site on the Big Island. Over five miles deep with cliffs reaching up to 2,000 feet high, Waipiʻo Valley is home to the island’s tallest waterfall, Hiʻilawe, which tumbles 1,300 feet to the valley’s floor. Take in the views from the overlook at the end of Hamakua Heritage Corridor drive. Driving down isn’t recommended, as the road is extremely steep and is prohibited by most rental car companies. To get to Waipiʻo Valley, turn off of the Hawaiʻi Belt Road (Highway 19) onto Highway 240 at the town of Honokaʻa. Follow Highway 240 for about 9.5 miles where it dead-ends at the valley’s lookout point.

Akaka Falls

Located along the northeastern Hāmākua Coast, ʻAkaka Falls State Park is home to two beautiful waterfalls. A casual, 0.4-mile hike takes you strolling through an orchid-filled rainforest filled with lush ferns and bamboo trees. The paved footpath winds through this tropical haven toward the Big Island’s most famous waterfall, ʻAkaka Falls, which descends almost 450 feet into the stream below. To get to Akaka Falls, take Hwy 19 north from Hilo for about 20 minutes to the turnoff for Hwy 220 (west). The Hwy 220 turnoff is between the 13-mile and 14-mile posts. Follow the Hwy 220 signs through Honomū Town for about 3 miles. Don’t forget to lock your vehicle and take valuables with you. Enjoy!

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Photo: Cindy Ellen Russell / crussell@staradvertiser.com

The Island of Hawaiʻi loves hosting festivals, and the year 2020 will be no exception.

The Big Island’s festivals are fun, tasty and entertaining; sure to please locals and visitors alike. Packed with music, culture, food and performances, there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy.

Waimea Ocean Film Festival

The Waimea Ocean Film Festival brings together filmmakers and film lovers for several days of immersion into island culture and environmental adventures. The festival aims to raise awareness and understanding of issues affecting the health and well-being of our oceans through visual film experiences. The festival will kick off the new year January 1-4 in Waimea, as well as The Fairmont Orchid and Mauna Kea Resort. The fun continues January 5-8 at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai. For more information, visit https://www.waimeaoceanfilm.org/

Hawaiʻi Island Steel Guitar Festival

This special festival takes place February 7-9, 2020 at the Mauna Lani Hotel in Kamuela, to help celebrate the grand re-opening and completion of the property’s renovation project. This festival features steel guitar performances of Hawaiʻi steel guitar masters, workshops and jam sessions, where festival guests can play along with steel guitar masters. This rescheduled festival will not affect the date of the 4th annual festival, which is tentatively scheduled for December 11-13, 2020. For more information, visit https://www.hawaiisteelguitarfestival.com/

Kona Brewer’s Festival

This popular annual event will take place March 14, 2020 in Kailua-Kona. The island’s best chefs join forces with craft brewers from the Hawaiian Islands and the mainland to collaborate through food, beer, fun and art. With live music and entertainment, the Kona Brewer’s Festival is unique in that it features a culinary experience with craft beers difficult to find in Hawaiʻi. Ticket sales raise funds for 28 Hawaii Island youth, culture, and environmental programs. For more information, visit http://konabrewersfestival.com/

Merrie Monarch Festival

The Merrie Monarch Festival is Hawaiʻi’s premier hula competition. It takes place every spring, the week following Easter Sunday. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful stories of ancient Hawaii told through song and dance. The 2020 event will take place April 12-18 in Hilo, Hawaii. Click here for more information.

Big Island Chocolate Festival

One of the most anticipated and tasty galas of the year is the Big Island Chocolate Festival’s Annual Gala and Silent Auction. More than 30 chef booths with sweet and savory chocolate tastings will be on hand, as well as vegan and vegetarian options, which are available at the Ulu Mole Bar. There is also plenty of beer, wine and sponsored tequila cocktails. Enjoy an evening of dancing, chocolate and more at this sell out event, taking place April 18, 2020.

Kaʻu Coffee Festival

On May 8-17, Kau coffee lovers will “toast the roast” and discover what makes the rural Kaʻu area so special for growing coffee. Participate in mountain hikes, stargazing, music, hula, food and more! Ka’u coffee is grown, hand-picked and produced on the farms gracing the gentle slopes of Mauna Loa in the lush, green Ka’u region of Hawaii’s Big Island.

Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament

Anglers and teams from around the world come together on the Island of Hawaiʻi every September to spend five days competing in Kona’s famous waters. Fishing aboard some of the finest charter boats, the sport’s legends gather for the thrill of capturing the prestigious HIBT Governor’s trophy. Dates of 2020’s competition TBA.

Hawaii Food and Wine Festival

This premier food and wine festival is a must-attend event for all foodies! The islands of Hawaiʻi, Maui and Oʻahu host this exquisite culinary event every October with world-class chefs, winemakers and master sommeliers for thousands of wine and food lovers. The next festival is scheduled for October 2-25, 2020. Details to be announced.

Ironman World Championship

Every year, the best athletes from around the world gather in Kona to compete in the grueling Ironman World Championship. The next race will be held on Saturday, October 10, 2020. The Ironman World Championship centers on the dedication and courage exhibited by participants who demonstrate the mantra that “Anything is possible.” Visitors witnessing this challenging race can attest to the truthfulness of this mantra!

Kona Coffee Cultural Festival

Come and celebrate all things coffee! The Kona Coffee Cultural Festival includes nearly 50 events over 10 days. Every November, Kona coffee’s world-renown reputation and its unique cultural heritage celebrate the coffee traditions that produced some of the world’s most expensive and tasty coffee. The Kona Coffee Cultural Festival experience is unique, educational and ensures the story of Kona coffee’s cultural heritage continues to be shared with residents and visitors. The 50th Annual Kona Coffee Cultural Festival will be held November 6-15, 2020.

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Magic’s Beach Grill

Magic’s Beach Grill. Photo: Karen Rose.

With a magnificent view of the Kona coastline, Magic’s Beach Grill is quickly becoming a favorite among Kona residents and visitors. Chef Dan Robayo creates fresh dishes that highlight local farmers and food producers. Menu items include the Kimchi Gumbo and the Kimchi Rueben sandwich. Another popular dish is the Ulu Fries with a trio of sauces that include malt vinegar aioli, spicy ketchup and mango mustard. Don’t forget to top off your meal with a slice of the Okinawan Sweet Potato Haupia Pie! Magic’s Beach Grill is located at 77-6452 Ali‘i Drive in Kailua-Kona and is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, and brunch on Sundays.

Kuleana Rum Shack

Located in the Queens’ MarketPlace in Waikoloa, Kuleana Rum Shack serves up fresh island dishes and handcrafted cocktails made with rum from their on-island distillery. The Rum Shack features authentic yet creative cuisine inspired by the melting pot of Hawaiian cultures. Try the Pipikaula Lumpia, Hawaiian salted beef dried in the sun, served with Swiss cheese, house-made kimchi and kochu-jang aioli. There are plenty of amazing dishes to choose from, but whatever you choose, be sure to save room for dessert. The malasadas (Portuguese donuts) are freshly fried to perfection and served with three self-serve injector fillings of chocolate, haupia and lilikoi. It’s the food your Hawaiian aunty made with an epicurean flare.

Nui Italian

The Hilton Waikoloa Village has brought authentic Italian cuisine to Hawaii Island, with Nui Italian Restaurant. Fresh from Italy, Chef Gino Cipriano serves up delicious, traditional dishes from his native country and turns food into art. Everything is fresh and superbly tasty — even the bread is beyond compare. One can’t go wrong with a genuine Italian pizza and the great selection of Italian wines. Nui has exceptional food with attentive service and true Hawaiian hospitality.

Ola Brew

Known for their tasty brews and ciders, Ola Brew now offers a menu of light but certainly not boring pub-grub to pair with your favorite suds. The flatbreads are perfect to share with friends, and the Poke Melt turns this traditional Hawaiian dish into an entirely new experience. The Poke Melt is made with locally baked focaccia bread and poke from The Poke Shack, which was rated the No. 1 poke spot in the world on Yelp. Topped with cheese and slightly heated just to melt the cheese, it’s the best tuna melt you’ll ever taste. Ola Brew is located in the Old Industrial area of Kailua-Kona.

Pele’s Wok Bistro & Bar

Pele’s Wok. Photo: Karen Rose.

The most recent addition to Shops at Mauna Lani on the Kohala Coast is Pele’s Wok Bistro & Bar. This Chinese-inspired restaurant elevates Chinese take-out to a whole new level. Committed to supporting local food producers, the chef pairs the best Chinese ingredients with locally sourced seafood and meats. The menu items are a bit pricier than your average Chinese food but well worth the extra expense. The quality of the dishes and the portion sizes make it a decent value. Be sure to try the Wok Tossed Brussels made with vinegar, honey, chili, sesame, garlic and fish sauce, and the Red Ginger Cake with Mango Ice Cream.

The post 5 Restaurants to Check Out on the Big Island in Summer of 2019 appeared first on Hawaii.com.

A trip to the Island of Hawaiʻi isn’t complete without touring and learning about one of the island’s most unique industries — coffee. Hawaiʻi is the only state in the country that grows coffee, so get your jitters on and check out some of these not-to-miss coffee tours.

Kona View Coffee Farm

Located on three acres of land on the volcanic slopes of Hualalai, the elevation and soil at Kona View Coffee Farm is ideal for producing the infamous Kona Coffee. The farm harvests their coffee cherries from August through December, making only 100% Kona Coffee. Known for their unique, single-origin espresso called “Sweet Waves,” the blend utilizes three different roasts with varying flavors to create a rare and complex cup of coffee. All their coffee is roasted on-site, and they roast to order any day of the week.

Visit Kona View Coffee online at www.konaviewcoffee.com.

UCC Hawaii Kona Coffee Estate

UCC Hawaii Kona Coffee Estate lies at the foot of Mt. Hualalai on the west side of the Big Island, approximately 30 minutes from Kona International Airport. Open daily from 9:00 to 4:30 (Tour hour: 9:30-3:00). Our free estate tour provides an excellent opportunity to learn more about how coffee is grown in Kona. Or create your own private coffee label and custom roast for a truly distinct signature coffee of your own. You can try your hand at the century-old craft of coffee roasting and roast your “one of a kind” private reserve. ($45.00~/person)

Call us at 1-808-322-3789 or visit www.ucc-hawaii.com for your reservation.

Greenwell Farms

As one of the largest and oldest coffee producers in Kona, Greenwell Farms is proud to celebrate its history and spread the spirit of aloha. Offering farm tours daily from 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m., Greenwell Farms provides educational and immersive opportunities for visitors and families. Check out coffee harvesting season with a group tour or take a personal walking tour of the coffee fields and processing facilities. Learn about the steps we take to produce top-quality 100% Kona Coffee and enjoy free samples at our onsite store, which offers a variety of coffee products and Hawaiian goods. From premier Kona coffee and decadent chocolates to organic Hawaiian honey, Greenwell Farms offers a taste of the islands with an abundance of unique, local goods.

Visit Greenwell Farms online at greenwellfarms.com.

Heavenly Hawaiian Farms

High on the slopes of Holualoa in the heart of Kona, Heavenly Hawaiian coffee grows, processes, and roasts three varieties of 100% Kona coffee: Heavenly Hawaiian Farm, The Other Farm, and Big Bean Reserve. Since 2000, Heavenly Hawaiian’s three varieties have been earning awards including First Place winner in the Kona coffee division of the Hawaii Coffee Association’s Cupping Contest. Farm tours are available from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday. See the farm, experience the milling and drying process, and finish up by sampling award-winning coffee and candy!

Visit Heavenly Hawaiian Farms online at heavenlyhawaiian.com.

Pacific Coffee Research

For visitors wanting to attend “coffee college,” the Pacific Coffee Research is a training campus for coffee education. Located in South Kona in the middle of coffee country, they offer specialty coffee classes and workshops for visitors at all levels of experience. Classes and workshops are for beginners to professionals and include topics such as pour-over skills, coffee tasting, espresso skills, and home roasting basics.

Visit Pacific Coffee Research online at pacificcoffeeresearch.com.

Keoki’s Roadside Café

Not a coffee farm, but a great place to stop for delicious Kona coffee and some famous ono fish and chips, Keoki’s Roadside Café is the place. Hawaiʻi Island residents drive for hours to indulge in Keoki’s Ono Fish and Chips served up with a big side of aloha. With hot coffee, tasty food, outdoor seating, and good service, it’s the perfect stop on any coffee tour itinerary.

See Keoki’s Roadside Café menu here.

Kau Coffee Mill

Kaʻu Coffee Mill offers their free “Seed to Cup” farm tours daily at 10 a.m., 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. Tours last approximately 30 minutes and cover the history of Kaʻu from the sugar plantation era to today’s thriving coffee industry. Visitors will tour the roasting room and get to experience and taste a variety of Kaʻu coffees. The gift shop offers a variety of coffee-related products for purchase.

Visit Kau Coffee Mill online at kaucoffeemill.com.

Big Island Coffee Roasters

Take a farm tour with Big Island Coffee Roasters to learn the process of coffee production from farm to cup. Beginning in the field and finishing in the roastery, visitors will learn how boutique coffees are made. See several varieties of coffee trees while strolling the farm’s artisan pulping, drying and milling process. Learn the importance of grading coffee and how grade names can be deceiving to the consumer. The coffee tour is $30 for up to 6 people and $10 for each additional person. Send an email to April@bigislandcoffeeroasters.com to schedule your tour.

Visit Big Island Coffee Roasters online at bigislandcoffeeroasters.com.

See also: Take a Kona Coffee Driving Tour and Taste Kona Coffee All Day Long!

The post The Hawaii Island Coffee Tour Guide We’ve All Been Waiting For appeared first on Hawaii.com.

Transportation When Snowboarding and Skiing

Unlike Aspen or Vail, there are no 4 star resorts, or fancy ski lifts on the volcano. In order to get to the summit, you’ll need a four-wheel drive vehicle and an additional driver to pick you up at the bottom of the run and drive you back to the top. There are no ski rentals either, so bring your own snowboard or skis. Best leave your fancy gear at home, however, because there’s a good chance your ski run will go from snow to lava rock quite abruptly, and your equipment could sustain some serious damage (not to mention your backside).

Safety First

The air pressure at the summit is significantly less than at sea level, making it difficult to breathe if you’re not in good physical health. Altitude sickness is common, and not fun. The sun’s rays are also very strong so bring sunscreen and good sunglasses. During the winter months when there is snow, temperatures range from 25 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit, and the wind chill can make it feel much colder. In fact if the wind is blowing too hard, it’s considered too dangerous and the road will most likely be closed. Before you head up, it’s best to check out the Mauna Kea forecast by the Hawaii Institute for Astronomy to get current weather conditions on the summit.

Taking It All In

Late January through March is usually the best time to visit Mauna Kea if you want to try snowboarding or skiing. Although the snow conditions are unpredictable, the views are always beautifully consistent. On a clear day, you can see the Big Island’s other massive volcano, Mauna Loa, and Maui’s Haleakalā Volcano.

Mauna Kea is sacred and culturally significant to the Hawaiian people and should be treated with respect. It is also one of the world’s best locations for astronomy, so please be respectful of observatory staff. If you’re up for a challenging adventure, are in good shape, and have the luck of Mother Nature on your side, you could be in for one of the most unique ski experiences of a lifetime!

The post Let It Snow! Snowboarding and Skiing on Mauna Kea appeared first on Hawaii.com.

What was once a thriving fishing community, Lapakahi is now an archaeological site with fascinating ruins preserved to tell a story of Hawaiʻi’s ancient past.

Historic, Self-Guided Walking Tour

Take an easy and informative one mile walking tour through the remains of the coastal village.

There are 23 interpretive displays throughout the walk, describing the people and their cultural story. Once an industrious settlement, what remains are the puzzle pieces of an ancient life with burial and home sites, storage areas, tools and games.

The park has remained much the same since its origin as park staff and archaeologists have preserved and restored many of the sites.

A Life Revolving Around Fishing

Because their way of life revolved around fishing, there is an inlet on the shore, most likely making a convenient area for taking canoes in and out of the water.

Archaeologists also discovered a deep well for providing drinking water and a way to water crops – a necessary requirement for surviving in such a barren and dry environment.

The beautiful landscape didn’t come without its challenges for the many generations of Hawaiians who called Lapakahi home.

Imagine an Ancient Life

Gaze around at the original remains of the lava rock walls and imagine the homes of small thatched huts that once filled the settlement. Close your eyes and you can almost hear the chattering of fisherman and squeals of young children playing within the walls of the village.

Lapakahi Marine Life Conservation District

Lapakahi Marine Life Conservation District lies just offshore from the park and is the perfect place to take in the panoramic ocean views or, during the winter months, look for Humpback whales.

Directions to Lapakahi Historical State Park

Lapakahi State Historical Park is located 11 miles north of Kawaihae and 7 miles south of Hawi on Highway 270.

There is little shade, so it’s best to visit the park in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat. Bring your own drinking water as there is none available in the park.

If visiting the northern coast of the Big Island, be sure to include a visit to this rich historical site.

You’ll be glad you did.

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Mokupapapa Discovery Center. Photo: Andy Collins.

Many of Hawaii’s treasures are a part of the landscape, in ancient villages and temples. Other pieces of history are displayed in museum collections and exhibits. Here are five museums and cultural centers to visit on the Big Island of Hawaii.

1. Hulihee Palace, Kona

Huliheʻe Palace was built in 1838 by Gov. John Adams Kuakini for his daughter-in-law Princess Ruth. The Kuakini Room contains many delicate and precious heirlooms from pre-contact and post-contact Hawaii.

2. Imiloa Astronomy Center, Hilo

Photo: Imiloa Astronomy Center.

The ʻImiloa Astronomy Center, an extraordinary facility where the volcano and its telescopes meet indigenous Hawaiian culture and language to — at last — articulate the intriguing link between the secrets of the stars and the ancient path of Hawaii’s native culture.

3. Lyman Museum and Mission House, Hilo

The Lyman Museum and Mission House brings Hawaii’s past to life and the family home is now the oldest wooden frame building on the Big Island. More than 26,000 volumes, documents, and historic photos of Hawaii are on display in the museum, which exists solely to tell the story of Hawaii, its islands and its people.

4. Laupahoehoe Train Museum, Laupahoehoe

Laupahoehoe Train Museum and Visitors Center features a handsomely restored railroad employee home, beautifully decorated in early 1900s furnishings.

5. Mokupapapa Discovery Center

Mokupapapa Discovery Center. Photo: Andy Collins.

Mokupapapa Discovery Center is rich with informaitn about one of the last wild places on earth — the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument which includes the Northwest Hawaiian Islands. It’s a great place to take the family, as there are lots of hands on exhibits.

The post 5 Museums and Cultural Centers to Visit on the Big Island appeared first on Hawaii.com.