Adventure Travel; "Into the Pacific"

Since we weren't able to go on an adventure this past weekend, I have compiled a list of the top places to view while visiting the Big Island; 1. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park; with an active volcano, in which visitors are guaranteed an epic experience, in which the hot, molten lava bursts forth with aggressive force from the caldera and enthralls many in the evening hours with its brilliant glow. Furthermore, the hiking areas will provide hours of outdoor entertainment, from the short hikes through the naturally formed Thurston Lava Tube, to the longer treks into the back country and down Kilauea Iki trail to the lava lake . This is a place which remains for most as a top item in their bucket list! 2. Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area; from body boarding the endless waves, to viewing the gorgeous sunsets, visitors are captured by this place in beauty, nature and the thrill of an ocean experience. One may either visit for the day and for those who love camping, try their cabi...

                                For this past week's outdoor adventure, we ventured just down the road and hiked into Ha'ena Beach. Also known as Shipman Beach, this beautiful white sand oasis is a 2.5 mile hike through the jungle, opening out to a breathtaking view of the ocean. It never gets old, because every time you hike this, you feel a renewed sense of yourself, in complete connection with nature and the ocean! I took videos and photos to document our time on the trail, as my kids always have interesting pointers or thoughts to share:)! One interesting part of the hike, are the historic walls, overgrown with moss and dating back to the 1800's. This trail is an ancient hiking path, which adds to the sense of excitement as one journeys onward. What were those people's thoughts so many years ago and did they feel the same as they finally saw the ocean? Another fascinating feature of the trail, i...

Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens, a free and fun destination, has been our go to site for hours of play and viewing the variety of animals. If just visiting the Big Island or living here with children, this zoo is perfect for a relaxing daytime outing. This site is the only tropical rainforest zoo in the entire United States and is located just four miles outside of Hilo! Although Pana'ewa is smaller in size than some, there are approximately 80 species of both tropical and endangered species, including the regal tigers (Siracha and Tzatziki), different species of monkeys, lemurs and other mammals, as well as numerous tropical birds, amphibians and reptiles. The Nene, the endangered Hawaii state bird, inhabits the zoo with other animal nomads such as peacocks, wild chickens and geese, which roam freely among visitors and animals alike. The playground in front of the pavilion and picnic area, offers a shaded seating area for parents to watch their keiki play safely. The...

The Relaxing oasis of Ahalanui Ahalanui County Beach Park, also fondly known as the "Warm Ponds," has become a favorite among our local destinations. Only fifteen minutes from Pahoa, this beautiful pool is heated naturally by the volcano, creating a relaxing ocean environment. During high tide, we enjoy basking in the warm depths, as fresh ocean waters rush in through the channel, refreshing the water constantly. Although this spot can be crowded at times, one always feels the zen experience, as everyone is mindful of others and is there to relax also. The park includes lifeguards on duty until 4:30 pm, then after, it is a personal responsibility to swim safe until closing at 7 pm. The park is open daily from 7 am and is free of charge. Not only is swimming the main attraction, but also sightseeing and photography. Local vendors frequent this spot, with fish taco stands, fresh fruit and music playing. As you enter the park, you'll see people either relaxing on the wa...