Travel

Hawaii the Sandwich Island

A primal lake of lava flows into the steaming sea. An indigo seascape stretches along the golden Kohala coastline. Clouds surround the snow-covered summit of the tallest sea mountain on Earth. Needless to say, a visit to Hawaii’s Big Island can be a humbling experience.
To avoid confusion with the name of the entire state, the island of Hawaii is called “Hawaii’s Big Island,” and what an appropriate name it is. Bigger than all of the other Hawaiian Islands combined, its sheer size can be intimidating. You’ll find 11 of the world’s 13 climactic zones within this island’s shores.
Home to numerous ancient Hawaiian temples, the birthplace of King Kamehameha I, and the landing spot for the first European missionaries, the Big Island is also an important place to learn about Hawaiian history. With so much to see, it’s best to experience the island in small pieces. There’s plenty of room on Hawaii’s Big Island for your return.

Hawaii Accommodations
Luxury resorts, hotels, bed and breakfasts, rental cottages, and condos are located throughout the island.

Getting to Hawaii’s Big Island
Hawaii’s Big Island has two main airports, Kona International Airport (KOA) and Hilo International Airport (ITO). There are direct flights from the mainland U.S. to Kona, but most flights arrive from Honolulu International Airport (HNL) on Oahu.

Staying on Hawaii’s Big Island
In Kailua-Kona and on the Kohala Coast you’ll find many hotels, luxury resorts, and condominiums. In Hilo, you’ll also find hotels of every size as well as small, charming inns. The area around Volcanoes National Park also has bed and breakfasts, lodges, and rentals.
If you’re staying in Kona, and you plan to visit Volcanoes National Park, consider staying in Hilo or in the Volcanoes National Park area for a night because a one-day round trip may not give you enough time to explore the park.
Anytime of year is a good time to visit Hawaii’s Big Island. The average temperature here is between 75˚-85˚ F.  Summer, between April and November, is warmer and drier while winter, between December and March, is a bit cooler. Trade winds keep things comfortable year-round.
The Kona side of the island is sunnier and drier, while the Hilo side is wetter and more tropical. Trade winds keep things comfortable year-round.

Traveling on Hawaii’s Big Island
Hawaii’s Big Island lives up to its name, so you should consider renting a car to really get the most out of your visit. Many visitors also enjoy taking bus tours to conveniently explore the Island. Other options include shuttles and taxis. The Hele-On Bus provides bus service between Kona and Hilo.

Honeymoons in Hawaii
Tropical flowers of every color surround your wedding party. Sea turtles swim in surrounding ponds while birds sing in the trees around your pristine reception site. The food is exquisite, prompting a flood of complements. Now just imagine the honeymoon.
Whether you’re walking down the aisle or spending some much deserved time together as man and wife, Hawaii’s Big Island offers a multitude of accommodations and services to make sure the biggest moments of your life receive the exceptional treatment they deserve.