To avoid confusion with the name of the 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 humbling. Mauna Kea , the world’s largest sea mountain, and Kilauea , the world’s most active volcano, only add to the intimidation factor. You’ll find 11 of the world’s 13 climatic zones within this island’s shores. The Big Island offers opportunities for on-land adventures, with mountain biking on Mauna Kea as well as biking, horseback riding, and ATVing in the Waipio Valley . Snorkelers will delight in the underwater sights of Kealakekua Bay and Lapakahi State Historical Park . The Big Island is also the site of the most extreme event of them all—the Ironman Triathlon, held in October.
Home to numerous ancient Hawaiian heiau (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. Hilo , hosts the state’s biggest and most prestigious hula festival, the Merrie Monarch Hula Festival . The Puuhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park is a reconstructed 180-acre village that was the home of Kona’s alii (royalty). Mookini Luakini Heiau is one of Hawaii’s oldest and most sacred religious sites, where kings would pray and make human sacrifices to Ku, the god of war. Though not the place for the resort-hopper, the Big Island’s offerings are sure to astound the intrepid traveler.
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For 52 years, we have published the world’s favorite budget travel guides, written entirely by students and updated every year. With pen and notebook in hand and a few changes of underwear stuffed in our backpacks, we spend months roaming the globe in search of travel bargains.
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