Monday, March 1, 2010

Spotlight on the Big Island of Hawaii

This weekend Hawaii was in the news about the approaching tsunami that was triggered by the earthquake in Chili. Luckily it was averted and the waves were just slightly above normal. On our last vist to the Big Island, our tour guide for our Grand Circle Hawaii tour spoke in detail about tsunamis and how serious they can be and how Hawaii reacts to tsunami warnings. This was definitely in effect this weekend.

There are great reasons to visit Hawaii and this article just brings up a bit about the Big Island- Hawaii:

Spotlight on Hawaii’s Big Island

Shaped over the course of several hundred thousand years by five volcanoes, the Big Island is the youngest and largest in the Hawaiian archipelago. And even today, Kilauea, a volcano that has been erupting nearly continuously since 1983, continues to change the terrain of Hawaii. To avoid confusion with the name of the entire state, the island of Hawaii is called “Hawaii’s Big Island.” Eleven of the world’s thirteen climactic zones are within the Big Island’s shores, and its varied geography makes for an unforgettable vacation. From lava fields to lush valleys, historical sites to sanctuaries, the Big Island has something for everyone. And those with an appetite for action can participate in activities such as hiking, horseback riding, jet skiing, diving, and sport fishing.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
With its dramatic landscapes and ever changing lava show, Hawaii Volcanoes
National Park is the number one visitor attraction in Hawaii. Kilauea Volcano
has earned a reputation as the world’s most active volcano, and if you visit
here, you can explore the steam vents, lava tubes, and old lava flows on foot or
take a helicopter tour to feel the lava heat.

Kohala Coast – The Kohala Coast boasts upscale resorts, a dramatic black
lavascape, and exceptional golf courses—plus rare flowers and picture perfect
beaches. Let's not forget the near picture perfect weather along the Kohala Coast and some of my favorite hotels- the Four Seasons and the Fairmont Orchid.

Waipio Valley – Located on the northern Hamakua Coast, the sacred Waipio Valley (Valley of the Kings) was a significant center for political and religious life in Hawaii. In addition to its importance as a site for Hawaiian history and culture, the Waipio Valley is a place of dramatic tropical beauty, highlighted by cascading waterfalls.

Mauna Kea – This seasonally snowcapped mountain is a haven of spirituality to the native Hawaiians and is considered to be the highest mountain in the world when measured from the sea floor. You can join a tour to travel to the top of Mauna Kea to see for yourself why stargazing atop here is such an unforgettable experience.

Black Sand Beach – A popular hangout spot for Hawaiian Sea Turtles, Black
Sand Beach is located on the south shore of the Big Island, just below Hilo town.

For more information on each of the islands of Hawaii, click here

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