HAWAI'I (BIG ISLAND), HI

The Island of Hawai'i is the furthest south of any in the island chain, and it's larger than all the other islands put together. It's also the home of the world's highest mountain (Mauna Kea) though much of the base is submerged. Nearby Kiluaea is the most active volcano in the world, and is also the most popular visitor attraction in a state that's full of visitor attractions. The Big Island, as it's called, is the only place where one can ski in the daytime and walk barefoot in a warm sea at sundown.

Kona

This spread-out district stretches from South Kona, the location of Honaunau Bay, to the vast Kona State Park. The inland area resembles a run-of-the-mill mainland suburban community. The Kona Airport is located a few miles north of Kailua-Kona on Highway 19. The most heavily populated area is Kailua-Kona. It's the site of the Kailua Pier, the main tourist shopping drag. Just below Kailua-Kona is Keahou-Kona. Most of the area hotels are ranged down the coast, from Kailua to Keahou.

Central Kailua-Kona has a half-dozen attractions, including Ahu'ena Heiau and Hulihe'e... more