THE ISLAND

WHERE: Half-hour drive from house on the way to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

WHAT: This beautiful black sand beach is a great spot to stop for a picnic lunch on the way to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The surf at this beach does not make for great swimming conditions, but walking along the black sand looking for Hawaiian green sea turtles isn’t a bad way to spend an afternoon!

WHERE: Two-hour drive from the house to the national park.

WHAT: Kilauea is one of the world’s most active volcanos. You might get lucky and catch an eruption during your trip! There is an assortment of hikes you can do in the park during the day. The Nahuku – Thurston Lava Tube is a short hike that is a must-do for visitors to the park.

WHERE: Hour-and-a-half drive to the north end of the Island from the house.

WHAT: The valley boasts spectacular views both of the shoreline and the valley behind. It is the area where King Kamehameha grew up and home to sacred burial grounds. There is a trail leading down to the black sand beach and ocean below. The hike down takes about 30 minutes, but it gets hot in the afternoon, so don’t forget your sunscreen!

WHERE: 10-minute drive from the house.

WHAT: Easy ocean access with calm waters. A perfect spot to snorkel and see a variety of tropical fish and other ocean life. Hawaiian green sea turtles are plentiful here, so keep your eyes peeled!

WHERE: Two-hour drive from the house on the opposite side of the Island in Hilo

WHAT: This bay is surrounded by lava rock and reef which makes it a great place to wade around and cool off from the heat. The water is crystal clear and calm and provides another great spot for snorkelling.