T StatmanTo culminate my summer before going to work, I was able to visit the beautiful Big Island of Hawai’i. The air was thick with humidity at 80 degrees, even rain would not spare our time there, but I loved every second of it. We were able to explore all over the Big Island, since we did not travel to any of the other islands.
Besides playing golf at some beautiful golf courses and snorkeling at the beach, this is what I did!
The Black Sand Beach
This is not only a beach with amazing views, but there is also some nice exercise that you get trying to hike to it. Don’t worry, the hike takes about 20 minutes, but it can be a little slippery so watch out. While the beach is pretty, it is not the kind that you would go swimming in. The current is too rough to do more than just putting your feet in.
Mountain Thunder Coffee
A drive through the clouds into the rainforest of the Big Island brings you to Mountain Thunder Coffee. The free tour is where knowledgeable staff shows you all the machinery it takes to make the coffee after they have gathered the beans. There is even an option to take a tour of the coffee plantation for an extra fee. Free samples of coffee are available and they have a cute gift shop that ranges from coffee beans to coffee infused lotions.
Volcano National Park
Even though there is no active flows at the moment (which they have posted everywhere at the park), the Volcano National Park is one of the most interesting National Parks that I have been to. Though many trails are closed due to the recent eruption, there are still plenty of old lava flows and other natural/human occurrences to see by hiking or scenic drive. You can walk to see the new lava flows as well at the end of the scenic drive.
Kohala Zipline
I am scared of heights and I really had to push myself to do this. After the first two lines, I was fine and having so much fun. It is incredibly safe and they make you certainly feel that way. The scenery is beautiful. So much green!!! This is a great time if you go with friends.
