Big Island
The spirit and energy of creation surrounds you
everywhere on Hawaii's Big Island. Polynesian legend claims the
goddess Pele gave volcanic birth to the Islands of Aloha. Hawaii's
Big Island is her latest and greatest creation. One island. Still
warm from its fiery birth. Larger twice than its sisters combined
and growing every day as its active volcano, Kilauea, sends new
land to a steamy meeting with the ocean 4,000 feet below. Countless
waterfalls feeding rain forests of botanical wonder add a fantasy
flavor to the landscape. Massive black lava fields hint at the
island's relative youth. And multiples of uncrowded beaches let
you catch your breath amidst unspoiled beauty. It's thrilling.
The island of Hawaii, better known as "The
Big Island" is the youngest and largest of the Hawaiian Islands.
In fact, the island of Hawaii is so young, it really hasn't finished
growing up yet! The big island is home to Kilauea, the worlds
most active volcano. Kilauea most recently began to erupt in 1983
and continues to erupt today, continuing to increase the land
mass of the island. Tourists may visit Hawaii Volcano's National
Park and walk on newly hardened lava flows and see hot steam poring
from volcanic vents. An even better way to see the park is from
a helicopter, which affords a much better view of the active lava
flows.
Two huge volcanos, Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa form most of the big
island. Muana Kea is the largest, standing 13,796 feet tall, and
snow is a common site on its highest slopes. The big island's
sheer size contributes the the amazing diversity of climates which
are to be found. Snowy peaks, sun-drenched beaches, "lunar"
lava flows, tropical rain-forests and arid dry lands are all present.
Most visitor accommodations are found in two separate
areas on opposite sides of the island, each serviced by it's own
airport. The town of Kailua, situated on the big island's west
shore, is the hub for activities on the island. This is the leeward
coast, which means this area gets less wind and more sunshine
than the rest of the island. Hilo, situated on the eastern shore,
is the other resort area. The Hilo side is quieter and less built-up
than the Kailua side and is perfect for a real hawaiian get-away.
|
