Hawaii County, Hawaii

When we chose to visit the volcanic big island of Hawaii, we knew that seeing an active lava flow was a must do. We decided to go at sunset and into the evening, as the lava flow would be spectacular under the dark night sky - we were right.  Start by driving to Kalapana, south of Hilo, on the e...

This beach lives up to Hawaii’s stunning fame. You can park in the curved area that is set away from the road, or along the street. Follow the little signs down the trail to the beach. It’s a bit of a scamper down some lava rocks to get there, so be careful.  A highlight of this beach is that it ...

Starting at the Kilauea Visitor Center, this 18.8 mile drive begins its 3,700 foot elevation change by meandering through the rainforest. Follow signs from the visitor center (near the entrance of the park) to Crater Rim Drive. Chain of Craters Road begins off of Crater Rim Drive, 3.3 miles south...

Everyone knows that Hawaii was formed from a series of volcanoes over millions of years. But did you know that you can experience one of them up close? Well, as close as you can while staying safe, obviously. The Halema'uma'u Crater has been active since 2008 when the vent first erupted. Since t...

Rainbow Falls is a gorgeous and easily accessible pull-off from Highway 11. This is not really a hike - just a short walk from the parking lot to a gorgeous 80 foot waterfall (making this fun for all ages!). Hit up Cafe Pesto in Hilo for a meal after.  If you want to learn about the mythology sur...

Running or biking on Old Mamalahoa Hwy is a treasure! The path is marked as a 'Scenic Drive' but you can park your car along the way and run, or bike through. This area is north of Hilo's downtown so you'll follow Mamalahoa Hwy north (the only highway that goes around the north side of the island...

While you can drive right to the summit of Mauna Kea on the 14 mile access road, the last 7 miles are on a very bumpy dirt road, so make sure your vehicle has plenty of clearance and good tires. All wheel drive will help a lot.The drive up is amazing itself. Usually there is some fog lingering ar...