Hawaii The Big Island Steeped in ancient legend, Hawaii is the largest and youngest of all the Hawaiian Islands. "The Big Island" is home to famous Mauna Kea, the world's largest mountain, rising more than 33,000 feet from the ocean floor. (The top of it is 13,796 feet above sea level.) It houses one of the world's most important observatories. To the north is snow-capped Mauna Loa which is 13,680 feet tall. Famous for its sugar cane plantations and Kona coffee, Hawaii has the fewest beaches, but the best weather. Be sure to visit Parker Ranch, where cowboys were branding steers back when the American West was still untamed. Hike the unforgettable black sand beaches. Relax and recharge with shopping and dining in Kona Village. Or view the spectacular eruptions that continue to build the island at Volcanoes National Park. With horseback riding, scuba diving, snorkeling, golfing on absolutely spectacular courses, and some of the world's most beautiful gardens -- The Big Island of Hawaii is an arena of beauty, diversity and constant change. Our Favorites: Accommodations Kona Village Resort Kaupulehu, Kona. –Most South Pacific atmosphere outside Tahiti! Individual hale (bungalow) with the feeling of utmost privacy and low key luxury. Snorkel, sail, walk to petroglyphs, and enjoy tennis, the full service spa, and deep-sea fishing. All within the resort. No TV’s, radio, telephones, just privacy and romance. Hilton Waikola –Disneyland of Hawaii. Sixty-two acres elaborately landscaped one-acre swimming pool with a meandering river that connects smaller pools and a 175-foot water slide. Guest travel between rooms and public areas by motor launch or tram. Complete fitness spa. Keahou Beach Hotel Kailua, Kona. –Adjacent to one of the best snorkeling beaches, convenient to restaurants, and shops. Large lanais, oceanfront property, signature restaurant and lounge with local entertainment. Things to do Kohala Mountain Kayak Cruise –A unique Eco-tourism journey along the historic Kohala sugar plantation irrigation system. The trek meanders within pristine rain forests, over ravines and past waterfalls through seven tunnels, over 4 flumes and in 5 ditches. The Best Luau Kona Village Luau, Kaupulehu, Kona –Good cuisine, romantic atmosphere and great entertainment, complete with imu (roast pig) ceremony. Most authentic buffet in the islands, complete with many rare items originating throughout Polynesia. 808-325-5555 Hawaii Volcanoes National Park –Explore lava tubes, moonlike terrain and steaming vents. Kileauea is one of two active volcanoes on Hawaii and has been in a steady eruptive stage since 1983, adding about forty acres of land a year to the islands land mass. Best snorkeling Sea Quest Rafting and Snorkeling Adventure. –Explore sea caves and lava tubes in six passenger rigid hull rafts. Snorkel at Place of Refuge and Captain Cook Monument. Enjoy the best snorkeling location in your own “private” launch. 808-329-7238 Restaurants Aloha Café Aloha Theater Complex, Hwy 11, Kainalui (Near Captain Cooks Monument). –Quaint little town south of Kona hosts this friendly roadhouse renowned for its wonderful breakfasts, best burgers and great view from the outdoor patio. 808-322-3303 Kona Ranch House 75-5653 Ololi St., Kaulua, Kona –Comfortable, American cuisine. A great value with lots of choices. Especially awesome big breakfasts. 808-329-7061 Maha’s-Café 65-1148 Mamalahoa Hwy., Waimea –Local secret, shares a historic 19th century missionary house with Cook’s Discoveries Hawaiian gift shop. Excellent for breakfast or lunch, ambiance is wonderful. 808-885-0693 Brown’s Beach House Orchid at Mauna Lani, 1N. Kaniku Dr. –Outstanding open-air Hawaiian restaurant for casual, yet elegant lunches and dinners. You can’t beat the scenery, food, and ambience. 808-885-2000 Oahu | Kauai | Maui | Molokai | Hawaii | Lanai Specific Information Request - Click Here Specials | Home (253) 853-8687 | info@andersontravel.net | FAX: (253) 514-6578 5229 Olympic Dr. NW, Unit B | Gig Harbor, Washington 98335 - U.S.A. Monday - Friday 9:30 am - 5:00 pm / Saturday 10:00 am - 2:00 pm