What do most people envision when they think of the Big Island – or Hawaii in general? Gorgeous sunsets, tropical weather, and of course the sandy beaches. While all of this is truly magical, there’s much more to it than that! Perhaps you’re considering a luxury home or estate on the Big Island and are curious about its history and other aspects of the island you’ll enjoy – outside of golfing and water activities! Here’s some of the greatest advantages of Big Island living.
Historic Places on the Island of Hawaii
Ever heard of Captain Cook? In 1778, Captain James Cook was the first westerner (and British explorer) to land on our island, specifically at Kealakekua Bay. Cook lost his life just a year later, after getting into a skirmish with Native Hawaiians on this same bay, where today you’ll find a monument memorializing his death on the shore of this historic state park, located 12 miles south of Kailua-Kona. Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park is where you can enjoy kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, or simply relaxing in the picnic area.
Ever wonder how Native Hawaiians lived in the past? Just over 12 miles north of Kawaihae Harbor, you’ll find Lapakahi State Historical Park, the site of a 600-year-old traditional fishing village that’s partially restored, rugged, and includes lava stone walls, restored houses, and more. The drive on Highway 270 (Akoni Pule Highway), between the Kohala Coast and North Kohala, is one you’ll no doubt enjoy as well! This is a 262-acre park you can enjoy at your leisure, as the tour is self-guided.
Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park, an early Hawaiian settlement, and Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, where you’ll experience sacred burial spots, petroglyphs, ponds and Native Hawaiian temple ruins are other historical areas you’ll want to explore in addition to those above!
Who Doesn’t Enjoy a Road Trip Every Now and Then?
Plenty of opportunities on the Big Island, whether you choose the coffee country scenic drive in South Kona; Chain of Craters Road; the Mauna Loa scenic drive, where you’ll cross old lava flows as you drive through the Koa forests, after climbing the slopes above Kilauea Volcano; or some of the other scenic road trips highlighted at Love Big Island.
As you’ll quickly learn, there’s so much more to living on the Island of Hawaii than beaches and gorgeous views!
If you’re in the market for an upscale home or estate on the Big Island, or looking to sell your luxury property, count on the team of experts at Mauna Kea Realty for exceptional guidance and results!