Spotlight's Big Island Gold Magazine

#1 - Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park

Here, in the domain of Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of fire, you will find Kilauea, the world's most active volcano. The current eruption, ongoing since January 1983, is the largest and longest volcanic flank eruption in history. Rangers at the Visitors Center will tell you where you can safely view the lava, or call (808) 985-6000. Crater Rim Drive is a wonder of sulphur banks, steam vents, lava tubes, and surreal landscapes of strange lava formations.

#2 - The Lunar Landscape of Mauna Kea

Drive the Saddle Road (check your car rental contract first), to the Visitors Center of 13,700-feet high Mauna Kea and see a world of sweeping moonscapes and cinder cones. You will need a 4-wheel drive to reach the observatories at the summit where scientists from all over the world view outer space. It's cold up there, the air is thin, and children and people with weak hearts should not attempt this high-altitude trek. Call (808) 961-2180.

#3 - Waipi‘o Valley

One of the most ravishingly beautiful valleys in the world. Route 240 ends at an overlook that amazes with its views of towering cliffs, waterfalls, black beaches, and lush green fields. For a closer look at the valley, call from the overlook for a ride down in a 4-wheel drive. Do not attempt this in a rental car, the road is too steep and in very bad condition. You can hike down, it's just over one mile, but remember you'll probably have to hike back up!

#4 - Place of Refuge

Reaching this peaceful place ensured safety for vanquished warriors and anyone who had offended the mighty Hawaiian chiefs or their gods. Once at the Pu‘uhonua o Honaunau, the offenders were safe from their enemies and protected by the gods. The site, in South Kona, has been completely restored and offers a fascinating glimpse into Hawai‘i's colorful past. Call (808) 328-2288.

#5 - ‘Akaka Falls

‘Akaka Falls foams and plunges 420-feet in one sheer drop. The falls are surrounded by lush jungle, giant bamboo, yellow ginger, orchids, and exotic tree ferns. A paved easy trail leads to the ‘Akaka Falls and the nearby Kahuna Falls. ‘Akaka Falls State Park is near the small town of Honomu, 12 miles north of Hilo.

#6 - The World Under the Sea

Kona's crystal waters team with colorful fish and marine life. Swimming at Kahalu‘u Beach Park will put you into close encounters with trumpet fish, turtles, moray eels, parrot fish, and humuhumunukunukuapua’a. Snorkel cruises will take you to secluded bays, including Kealakekua Bay where you can see the monument to the British Explorer, Captain Cook, who met his fate at this deceptively peaceful-looking place. Dolphins frolic, and manta rays glide, through the waters here.

#7 - The World Underground

Explore the world below Hawai‘i by venturing into entwined miles of lava tubes. Wander through caverns 30-feet high, or crawl through coffin-like tunnels. See caves decorated by Pele, the goddess of fire, with delicate chocolate stalactites and lace-like crystals. Kula Kai Caverns, Ka‘u (808) 929-7539. Thurston Lava Tube, at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, is easily accessible, as are Kaumana Caves on the Saddle Road near Hilo.