Like the other Hawaiian islands, The Big Island was formed from volcanic activity initiated at an undersea hotspot. And it is, if you measure from the base of the mountain deep under the Pacific. Mauna Kea is “just” 13,796 feet above sea level but locals will tell you it is taller than Mount Everest. The Big Island grows coffee, has royal palaces, and has Hawaii’s tallest mountain, Mauna Kea.
The state is the southernmost state of the United States but, surprisingly, not the most westerly – that honor goes to Alaska. At 4,028 square miles, it’s the largest of the Hawaiian Islands. The Island of Hawai’i is often referred to as the Big Island or Hawai’i Island to distinguish it from the state of Hawaii. PAHOEHOE LAVA – “Ropy” shaped lava, one of two types found on the island, are constant reminders of the forces that shaped these islands. SUNSETS – Tropical temps, humidity, the geography of the islands and more give sunsets in Hawaii their original palette.ĬOFFEE FARMS – Kona Coffee is exclusive to the Big Island, and Greenwell Farms has a casual, yet informative tour.
GREEN SEA TURTLES “HONU” – Honu grow to around 3-4 feet but weigh up to 300-350 lbs or more! No touching, please.
HAWAII – THE BIG ISLAND – Snorkeling, sandy beaches, volcanoes, whale watching, the “shaka,” waterfalls, sunsets, culture, and coffee plantations.
