There are eight major islands that comprise the State of Hawaii. The largest bears the same name as the state, Hawaii, and is often referred to as the Big Island. Divided into moku, the Hawaiian word for district, Kona is one of those districts. As a visitor, here are some highlights that you will not want to miss. `
One of several National Parks, Puuhonua o Honaunau, is 180 acres of Hawaiian history and culture. To fully appreciate the grounds, there is a self guided tour where you can leisurely stroll through the remains of sacred temples that have been beautifully restored. There is a temple, very sacred to the Hawaiians, where the skeletal remains of 23 chiefs have been put to rest. There is the Great Wall that was built to protect the people. You can see evidence of the Hawaiian religious beliefs with wooden statues of Hawaiian Gods. This National Park is a snapshot of the history and culture of the Hawaiian people.
Keauhou Resort is blessed with sunny weather, making it perfect for snorkeling and kayaking. It is easy to spot manta rays and Hawaiian green turtles, called honu, in the shallow tide pools. This area features spas, golf courses and resorts and welcomes many tourists. The Historic Kailua Village is only minutes away by car. Every October, the Village is the starting point for the world famous Iron Man Triathlon.
At the center of the Kailua Village you will find the Hulihee Palace. This palace was the summer home to Hawaiian Monarchs years ago. Built in 1938 is houses furniture, ornaments and artifacts original to the Hawaiian culture. The sense of history and culture of the monarchy is a history lesson in itself.
Kaloko Honokohau is another historical National Park. The Park has a wealth of man made and natural wonders. There are four sea to mountain land divisions, which the Hawaiians call ahupuaa. There are sacred temples and two engineered fish ponds. At the visitor center, you can learn all about the guided tours that are available.
Kealakekua Bay Historical Park is the place to go for snorkeling and scuba diving. The surrounding brilliant waters of the bay are exceptionally colorful with tropical fish and vivid coral reefs. The park is historic as this is the land that Captain James Cook first landed on when he sailed to Hawaii in 1778. Before Cook, the Hawaiians had not seen any Westerners. Despite the fact that he was killed in a dispute one year later, the Hawaiians esteemed him and erected an obelisk in his honor.
Amidst coffee plantations, there is a small village known as Holualoa. Coffee lovers world wide appreciate the coffee grown in the rich volcanic soil. With nearly 600 coffee plantations, visitors can find a few with public tours. This is also home to the local art community. Come for the coffee and the art.
Narrow your scope of exploring as a tourist, and you will get a lot more out of the experience. The beauty of this island is not only found in nature. Learning about the history and culture of Hawaii is just as meaningful and allows tourists to really appreciate all the island has to offer. Westerners have come to the islands and left their large footprint, but if you look closely the old Hawaii is still there. It should not be missed.
One of several National Parks, Puuhonua o Honaunau, is 180 acres of Hawaiian history and culture. To fully appreciate the grounds, there is a self guided tour where you can leisurely stroll through the remains of sacred temples that have been beautifully restored. There is a temple, very sacred to the Hawaiians, where the skeletal remains of 23 chiefs have been put to rest. There is the Great Wall that was built to protect the people. You can see evidence of the Hawaiian religious beliefs with wooden statues of Hawaiian Gods. This National Park is a snapshot of the history and culture of the Hawaiian people.
Keauhou Resort is blessed with sunny weather, making it perfect for snorkeling and kayaking. It is easy to spot manta rays and Hawaiian green turtles, called honu, in the shallow tide pools. This area features spas, golf courses and resorts and welcomes many tourists. The Historic Kailua Village is only minutes away by car. Every October, the Village is the starting point for the world famous Iron Man Triathlon.
At the center of the Kailua Village you will find the Hulihee Palace. This palace was the summer home to Hawaiian Monarchs years ago. Built in 1938 is houses furniture, ornaments and artifacts original to the Hawaiian culture. The sense of history and culture of the monarchy is a history lesson in itself.
Kaloko Honokohau is another historical National Park. The Park has a wealth of man made and natural wonders. There are four sea to mountain land divisions, which the Hawaiians call ahupuaa. There are sacred temples and two engineered fish ponds. At the visitor center, you can learn all about the guided tours that are available.
Kealakekua Bay Historical Park is the place to go for snorkeling and scuba diving. The surrounding brilliant waters of the bay are exceptionally colorful with tropical fish and vivid coral reefs. The park is historic as this is the land that Captain James Cook first landed on when he sailed to Hawaii in 1778. Before Cook, the Hawaiians had not seen any Westerners. Despite the fact that he was killed in a dispute one year later, the Hawaiians esteemed him and erected an obelisk in his honor.
Amidst coffee plantations, there is a small village known as Holualoa. Coffee lovers world wide appreciate the coffee grown in the rich volcanic soil. With nearly 600 coffee plantations, visitors can find a few with public tours. This is also home to the local art community. Come for the coffee and the art.
Narrow your scope of exploring as a tourist, and you will get a lot more out of the experience. The beauty of this island is not only found in nature. Learning about the history and culture of Hawaii is just as meaningful and allows tourists to really appreciate all the island has to offer. Westerners have come to the islands and left their large footprint, but if you look closely the old Hawaii is still there. It should not be missed.
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