I have been asked many times if I have ever had island fever. My response has always been that’s it is not possible on the Big Island with so much to see and do. You need to take advantage of the many outdoor adventures. With over 4,000 square miles, there is always a new adventure waiting around the corner. Being outside and enjoying near-perfect weather is a special gift for those living on the islands.
With so much outdoor beauty waiting to be explored, finding your perfect golden nugget can be a difficult decision to make. Where do you start, and what do you start with?
Unique Big Island Outdoor Adventures
- You can snorkel at night with manatees and view the majesty of these huge “sea cows.”
- Take a kayak ride with North Kohala’s “Flumin Kohala” with three miles of scenic Hawaiian history and landscape.
- See the islands from a different perspective on Horseback in Waipio Valley.
- Leave the kayak behind and discover the underwater riches by snorkeling or scuba diving.
- Visit the southernmost point of the United States and the fantastic green sand beach.
- Experience the hidden subterranean environment in thousand-year-old lava tube systems with Kaula Kai Caravans.
- With over 2,000 species of tropical plants in a 40-acre valley, the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Gardens is a mini world in itself.
Historical Landmarks on the Big Island
You can also find hidden golden nuggets in Hawaii’s rich history and culture. From national parks to petroglyph preserves to ancient battle sites, you get the opportunity to dive deep into the history and culture and experience it hands-on.
A couple of landmarks that are my favorite are:
- Lapakahi State Historical Park
- Waikoloa Petroglyph’s
- The Place of Refuge “Pu’uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park”
- Mo’okini Heiau
The Curve of the Earth
With an altitude of 13,800 feet, Mauna Kea is Hawaii’s highest mountain. Being on the top of the mountain for sunrise or sunset is one of the most extraordinary things I have ever experienced. Not only do you have an unparalleled view of the Island, stars, and the curve of the earth. But seeing the Island from a different perspective changes your outlook on the Island and your inner world.
Letterboxing or Geocaching
I have friends who just arrived on the Big Island for the first time and told me about their treasure hunts with Letterboxing/Geocaching. I think it’s a beautiful idea because it pushes you to explore somewhere new that may not be in your “Hawaii The Big Island Revealed” book. If you are new to Letterboxing, you can learn more about it at www.atlasquest.com.
Enjoy the Big Island Outdoor Lifestyle
With so many adventures and hidden nuggets, the Big Island outdoor lifestyle never gets old. There truly is so much to see, and the experiences are never-ending. Finding your golden nugget and your happy place in the outdoors is the real adventure to living the island lifestyle.
I’d love to hear about your golden nugget and what outdoor experience makes you happy on the Island. Tell me your story and adventures!
Mahalo,
Leeana
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