Spirit of Aloha | Explore the Islands | Hawai'i

Exploring Hawai'i

The Island of Hawai‘i is much loved for its active volcanoes and fields of hardened black lava, lush northern pasturelands, snowcapped peaks and sleepy “Wild West” towns. With a landscape this riveting, it can be easy to overlook the Big Island’s coastal wonderlands of golden, black and even olivine sand beaches and plenty of sun, plus unique up-close-and-personal marine life experiences that rival or sometimes even exceed those on the neighboring islands.

In the Kailua-Kona area, take a sailboat cruise to Kealakekua Bay, a national marine preserve and site of Capt. James Cook’s demise in 1779. This restful undersea paradise features clear, deep waters brimming with rainbows of tropical fish, exotic corals and sea urchins the size of bowling balls—a perfect spot for a morning or an afternoon of snorkeling. In the evening, head to Sheraton Keauhou Bay Re­sort & Spa to see the giant manta ray from the shore, or even night snorkel or scuba dive among them with the Sheraton’s memorable Manta Ray Experi­ence. For a more “Heming­wayesque” water adventure, try sports fishing—Kona is fa­mous for its billfish and other big sea game.

On the Hilo side of the island, the Kapoho Tide Pools await you at the end of a drive through the rural Puna District. Graced with the rugged beauty for which the Big Island is noted, many of the tide pools harbor geothermally heated water as well as abundant life, making a visit both delightful and educational. Tread lightly to preserve this fragile environment for the next resident or visitor. Wherever you choose to explore the Big Island’s coastline, you’re sure to find a little taste of heaven.

Exploring a Big, Big Island

Body Glove Cruises
offers snorkeling and scuba diving at Pawai Bay, a marine preserve. Witness tropical fish, sea turtles and dolphins among beautiful coral reef gardens. Break­fast, lunch, flotation toys and much more. Also join in for a sunset cocktail cruise, two-hour open bar, heavy püpü and live entertainment. Call 326-7122 or 800-551-8911 and visit www.snorkelkona.com

Boss Frog’s Dive & Surf
With two locations in Kona, you’ll rent the best snorkel sets at the lowest price. Boss Frog’s covers all your beach rental needs from surfboards to golf clubs, as well as discounts on all activities. In Kailua-Kona at 75-5725 Ali‘i Drive, Suite C111 and down the street at 75-6082 Ali‘i Drive, Suite 10-C. 331-1990 or toll free at 888-700-3764. Visit bossfrog.com

Harper Car and Truck Rental
is the Big Island’s only specialty rental company, featuring five- to 15-passenger four-by-four recreation vehicles and trucks. Hilo and Kona. Call 969-1478, 800-852-9993 or visit www.harpershawaii.com

Safari Helicopter Tours
People’s No. 1 choice since 1987, Safari Helicopters offers 1.5-hour Ulti-mate and Eco Tour Adventures. Safari is the first and only company legally authorized to provide a remote landing where Jurassic Park was filmed. Safari features the ASTAR 350 B2 with huge windows, Bose stereo headsets and an FAA-ap­proved multiple-camera system in DVD of your actual tour. FAA Part-135 certified. Call 800-326-3356 or visit www.safarihelicopters.com for great savings.

Snorkel Bob
Brand™ masks include the Seamo Betta™ and Li’l Mo Betta™ if you need Rx lenses. Snorkel Bob’s Compleat Reef Video is the what-for and where-from of snorkeling, and it’s free over­night when you get gear from Snorkel Bob. All islands 8-5 every day. Kona (329-0770) and Kaloko (329-0771). Visit www.snorkelbob.com

Volcano Winery
Wine tasting in paradise is just a sip away at the Big Island’s Volcano Winery. Come taste these award-winning wines, including Sym­phony Dry and sweet Macadamia Nut Honey wine. Tasting is free. Open daily, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Located near Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park at the 30-mile marker. Call 967-7772 or visit www.volcanowinery.com

Volcano ART CENTER
offers free, guided rain-forest tours every Monday at 9:30 a.m. at Niaulani Campus in Volcano Village; a retail art gallery in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park; hula shows, concerts, workshops and much more. Call 967-8222/967-7565 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org

Waikoloa Beach Resort
offers two championship golf courses for golfers of all levels. The Beach Course winds its way through ancient lava fields along the Kohala Coast—quite simply, resort golf at its finest. The Kings’ Course is a 7,000-plus-yard links-style course that offers stunning views of the towering volcanoes of the Big Island framed by palm trees and vibrant flowers surrounded by ancient lava fields. Call 877-WAIKOLOA or visit www.waikoloabeachresort.com

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Buy, Buy, Buy

CaboandCoral.com
Capture the aloha spirit with Cabo & Coral Go Surfing! Inspirational and educational, it teaches about sharing waves, surfing etiquette, living in harmony with our environment and respecting the beach. Partial proceeds go to Surfrider Foundation. Visit CaboandCoral.com

CRAZY SHIRTS
Founded in 1964, Crazy Shirts is a brand of top-quality T-shirts and apparel made from the finest materials available and decorated with original, fun art. There are 37 retail stores located in Hawaii Guam, California, Nevada and Florida. Call the catalog store at 800-771-2720 or visit www.crazyshirts.com

HILO HATTIE
the store of hawAI‘I is where you will discover the largest selection of Big Island souvenirs, fashions, T-shirts and gifts, with low manufacturer prices. Kona (329-7200) or Hilo (961-3077). Free transporation from most hotels or visit HiloHattie.com

HILTON WAILOKOA VILLAGE
is set on 62 lushly landscaped acres along the beautiful Kohala Coast. Cruise aboard mahogany boats, discover art and cultural treasures, award-winning dining, world-class shopping, 36 holes of golf and the Kohala Sports Club & Spa. Call 886-1234 or visit www.HiltonWaikoloaVillage.com

The Indich Collection
specializes in unique hand-woven Hawaiian Rugs® in designs of plumeria, heliconia, bird of paradise and more. Wide range of sizes. In Kona, Old Industrial Area, 74-5599 Luhia St. Call 329-6500. Also on O'ahu and Maui. Visitwww.hawaiianrugs.com

Kama‘aina Woods
“the koa bowl specialists” since 1976, features a factory and gift shop in Honoka‘a. Introducing “Huli Hands,” handcrafted and sold only from the factory. 775-7722. For phone orders, call 800-551-9306 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.or visit hulihands.com

Kings' Shops
is a charming, first-class shopping center that features luxury designer boutiques with a splash of quaint Hawaiian shops. Enjoy a refreshing beverage while relaxing by the cascading waterfalls, or stroll the center enjoying the native Hawaiian plants and dramatic murals depicting Old Hawai‘i. With complimentary nightly entertainment center stage, you will enjoy the Hawaiian-style ambiance. Open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Call 886-8811 or visit www.kingsshops.com

KOA COFFEE PLANTATION
produces 100 percent Kona coffee that is consistently smooth, with a rich, well-balanced flavor. Called the “Best Coffee in America” by Forbes magazine. A truly delicious cup of coffee! Call 866-562-5282 or visit koacoffee.com

Lahaina galleries
Among the most respected names in the art world, Jim and Nancy Killett opened Lahaina Galleries in 1976. Paintings and sculptures by renowned artists, including Hart, Buffet, Ginzburg, Campanile, Luongo, The Twins and more. Located at The Shops at Mauna Lani (885-7244).

Louis Vuitton
has been synonymous with the history of travel since 1854 and this year will celebrate its 150th anniversary. Experience Louis Vuitton's fashion-from travel goods, handbags and accessories to the current season's men and women's shoe collection. Located in the Waikoloa Beach Resort-Kings' Shops (886-0262). Visit www.louisvuitton.com

Maui Divers Jewelry
as an exquisite selection of fine jewelry. Located at Kings’ Shops in Waikoloa (886-0055), Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Visitor Center (966-7692) in Hilo, Royal Kona Coffee Visitor Center (328-1313) in Captain Cook, Kona Square (329-9560) in Kona, Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa (324-7979) and in Hilo Hattie Hilo (961-3615) and Kona (329-6682). Visitwww.mauidivers.com

Nā Hoku
As diverse and beautiful as the Big Island itself, Nā Hoku's collection of fine jewelry accents your individuality, taste and style. Nā Hoku captures the essence of the Hawaiian lifestyle with exquisite creations from Kabana, Steven Douglas, Wyland and other renowned artists. Located at Kona Marketplace (329-5080); Kings' Shops (886-7599); Hilton Waikoloa Village (886-5019). Visit www.NaHoku.com

Original Hawaiian Chocolate Factory
Original Hawaiian Chocolate . . . the only chocolate of its kind in the world! Made and grown on the island of Hawai‘i. You are invited to savor our exceptionally unique handcrafted Original Hawaiian Chocolate. Chocolate is Aloha!® Call 322-2626 or visit www.originalhawaiianchocolatefactory.com

The Original Plumeria Lei Collection
features beautiful bracelets, earrings, pendants and rings created by designer Denny Wong, available on the Big Island at Royal Gold (886-7701, 331-8818), Originals by Oscar (322-6767) and Mountain Gold Jewelers (882-4653).

Pearl Factory
At the authentic Pearl Factory, Hawai‘i’s original Pearl-in-the-Oyster, you’ll discover some of the most beautiful, high-quality saltwater cultured pearls in the Islands. Pearl Factory offers a wide range of locally created settings, with an equally wide range of prices. Located in the Kona Marketplace (327-1749).

QUEEN’S MARKETPLACE
is the exciting new Hawaiian lifestyle shopping destination at Waikoloa Beach Resort, a 23,000-square-foot Island gourmet marketplace that hosts everything a family desires. The marketplace offers a place to find everything from everyday necessities to favorite foods and special souvenirs and a selection of quality local and national brand retailers caters to visitors and residents alike. The food court offers a quick bite, while the variety of restaurants hosts sit-down, family-style dining. Open daily 9:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Call 886-8822 or visit www.queensmarketplace.net

Sandal Tree
Since 1837, Tiffany & Co. has captivated the world with elegant design and remarkable craftsmanship. Here you will find the timeless creations that have made Tiffany the world’s premier jeweler and America’s house of design. Visit Tiffany.com

Tiffany & Co.
has an outstanding selection of footwear for men and women for every occasion and a great line of accessories. At the Hilton Waikoloa Village (886-7884). Visit sandaltree.com

Tommy Bahama
retail emporiums offer a broad range of refined men’s and women’s collections of sportswear, swimwear, footwear, home décor and accessories. Tommy Bahama compounds, consisting of a retail emporium and Tropical Café, offer the complete lifestyle environment that takes you to a unique destination with the full flavor of the Islands. Tommy Bahama emporiums are located in Honolulu, Kïhei, the Kohala Coast, Lahaina and Waikoloa (opening Spring 2008). Tommy Bahama compounds are located in Kïhei and the Kohala Coast. Visit tommybahama.com

VOLCANO ART CENTER GALLERY
ocated in the historic 1877 Volcano House in Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, the gallery features fine art and crafts by more than 300 artists. Much of the work—including wood and glass, painting and photography—is one-of-a-kind and can be found nowhere else in Hawai‘i. Call 967-7565 daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. or visit volcanoartcenter.org

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Dining

Café Pesto
is noted for its fresh seafood, exotic pizzas and Asian pastas and salads. Open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and till 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Located in Kawaihae (882-1071) and in downtown Hilo in the S. Hata Building (969-6640). Visit www.cafepesto.com

HĀPUNA Beach Prince Hotel
boasts the award-winning Coast Grille & Oyster Bar, featuring fresh Island seafood and spectacular Kohala sunsets. Enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine and sizzling steaks at Hakone Steakhouse • Sushi Bar or the famous Sunday brunch served at the open-air Ocean Terrace Restaurant. For reservations, call 880-3023. Visit www.PrinceResortsHawaii.com

The Huala¯lai grille by Alan Wong
offers the best in Hawai‘i Regional Cuisine by the award-winning culinary team of chef Alan Wong. Located on the upper level of Hualälai Golf Clubhouse. For reservations, call 325-8525. Lunch 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Dinner 5:30 to 9 p.m. Visit hualalairesort.com

Jameson’s By The Sea
is located on the ocean just south of Kona at Magic Sands Beach, serves lunch weekdays on the lānai overlooking the crashing surf. Enjoy a beautiful sunset, with dinner served nightly from 5 p.m. Dishes prepared with the freshest ingredients include fresh fish—‘ōpakapaka, mahimahi, ‘ahi and ono—plus baked stuffed shrimp, scallops, lobster tails, New York steak and filet mignon. 77-6452 Ali‘i Drive, Kailua-Kona (329-3195).

KANALOA GRILL & Bar Restaurant
is located oceanfront at Outrigger’s Kanaloa at Kona, serves lunch and dinner daily while you enjoy the crashing waves and spectacular sunset. The newest addition to the Jameson’s Restaurant chain is a must-dine experience while in Kona. Look for Mahukai Street in Keauhou. Call 322-1003.

--> Kona Brewing Co.
serves hand-tossed gourmet pizzas, sandwiches, salads and fresh, handcrafted beers, which are sold in finer markets and restaurants statewide. 75-5629 Kua­kini Highway. Call 329-BREW. Sunday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Visit www.konabrewingco.com

L&L HAWAIIAN BARBECUE
Home of the original Hawaiian bar- becue, L&L features a fusion of American, Hawaiian and Asian entrées known as the Hawai­ian plate lunch, cooked fresh and made to order, with large portions at low prices. More than 170 locations and growing throughout the United States (50 in Hawai‘i). Call 866-951-9888 or visit HawaiianBarbecue.com

Outback Steakhouse
offers Australian-themed casual dining featuring steaks, fresh fish, chicken, shrimp, ribs and lamb. Dinner and take-away daily. Coconut Grove Market Place, Kailua-Kona (326-2555).

Roy’s Waikoloa Bar & Grill
is where you’ll find the now-famous Hawaiian fusion cuisine, and you’ll be back for the lively dining atmosphere. Kings’ Shops, Waikoloa (886-4321). www.roysrestaurant.com

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE
serves only the best steaks, selected from the top 2 percent of the country’s beef and served sizzling hot—with heaping sides of warm ambience and comfortable elegance. This New Orleans-inspired cuisine features the finest USDA Prime steaks, fresh seafood, an award-winning wine list and a wide variety of appetizers, side dishes and desserts, all served in a gracious environment with the warm hospitality you expect from Ruth’s Chris. To experience fine dining at its prime, just follow the sizzle to Ruth’s Chris Steak House. Located at The Shops at Mauna Lani, 68-1330 Mauna Lani Drive (887-0800). Visit www.ruthschris.com

The Seaside Restaurant
is a casual family restaurant over- ­­­look­­ing ponds filled with fish that are freshly caught for your dinner. Also serving prime rib, steak and lobster, chicken and pasta. 1790 Ka­lani­ana‘ole Ave. in Hilo (935-8825). Visit www.seasiderestaurant.com

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Your Very Own Estate

Brookfield Homes Hawai‘I
builds homes with enduring design and timeless architecture, all within nature’s most beautiful surroundings. Each one of our neighborhoods completes the resort experience. Visit KaMilo at the Mauna Lani Resort on Hawai‘i or Nihilani at the Princeville Resort and PiliMai at Po‘ipu¯ on Kaua‘i—and live the difference. Visit BrookfieldHawaii.com

Farm Credit Services of Hawai‘i
Planning to buy open or improved land, construct a new project or purchase livestock or equipment? Need funds to operate your business or refinance an existing mortgage? Farmers, ranchers, fishermen, nursery owners and country homeowners can call Farm Credit Services of Hawai‘i for help. Toll free 800-894-4996. Visit HawaiiFarmCredit.com .

Hawaii Realty Brokers & Associates
Specializes in luxury condominiums and townhomes, luxury homes and estates, vacation rentals and investment properties, vacant residential and agricultural land, beachfront, ocean or mountain views. Linda Kelly, principal broker, GRI, ABR. Call 895-2701 or visit hawaiirealtybrokers.com

Ke Kailani
means “the sea reaching for the heavens,” and is a place where terrestrial grandeur and ethereal grace coexist in harmony in a community unlike any other. In addition to its abundant natural beauty, this last parcel of oceanfront land in Mauna Lani Resort offers estate lots and villas with a host of extraordinary amenities. For information, contact Ke Kailani Realty at 886-2000 or visit kekailani.com

Kulalani at Mauna Lani
This gated community of two- and three-bedroom luxury townhomes along the champion­ship North Course embodies resort living and Hawai‘i’s indoor/outdoor lifestyle. Kulalani offers five exceptional floor plans, with Hawai‘i’s contemporary plantation-style architecture and features designer appointments and architectural touches, including high-vaulted ceilings, attached garages and la¯nai. Call 885-8577 or visit stanfordcarr.com

Waikoloa Beach Marriott
is set on 15 prime oceanfront acres along the sun-splashed Kohala Coast. The world-class, 545-room resort overlooks beautiful ‘Anaeho­‘omalu Bay and a half-mile crescent of golden sand. Call 800-922-5533 or visit waikoloabeachmarriott.com

Wai‘ula‘ula
The estate residences at Wai‘ula‘ula are Mauna Kea’s crown jewels. From the moment you arrive, you’ll understand why: luxurious and spacious, with Hawai‘i’s best views and all that the Mauna Kea has to offer. Call 888-657-4253 or visit waiulaula.com

WEHILANI at Waikoloa
Offers spacious floor plans, nearby beaches and championship golf courses, all the amen­ities of the Waikoloa Village and more. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the perfect life­style. Call 883-3300 or visit castle-cooke.com.

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Room with an Opulent View


Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel
on the stunning Kohala Coast is a luxurious beachfront hotel where one can experience the true essence of rejuvenation. Guests can relax in the elegant guest rooms, play championship golf, indulge in exquisite dining and enjoy all the amenities of the renowned Mauna Kea Resort. Call 880-1111 or 866-PRINCE-6. For tee times, call 882-5400. Visit www.princeresortshawaii.com

Kona Village Resort
is Hawai‘i’s only Polynesian-style resort, with 125 thatched-roof cottages scattered among lush tropical beaches, ancient fishponds and lava seascapes. Romantic, star-studded nights, cool tropical breezes and idyllic days. There are no intrusions from televisions, radios, clocks or telephones. Visit www.konavillage.com

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On the Road, Big Island-Style

Harper Car and Truck Rental is the Big Island’s only specialty rental company, featuring five- to 15-passenger four-by-four recreation vehicles and trucks. Hilo and Kona. Call 969-1478, 800-852-9993 or visit www.harpershawaii.com

Need to rent a car? Check out: Alamo Rent-A-Car (800-GO-ALAMO); Avis Rent A Car (800-331-1212); Budget Rent A Car (800-527-7000); Dollar Rent A Car (800-800-4000); Enterprise Rent-A-Car (800-RENT- A-CAR); Hertz (800-654-3131); National Car Rental (800-CAR-RENT); Thrifty Car Rental (800- 367-5238).