Tag Archives: Big Island

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Visiting Hawaii’s Heritage Sites

There are many places in Hawaii that are deeply treasured for their cultural, natural or historical significance. From rugged state parks to historic landmarks, here are some of the heritage sites that the Hawaiian islands have to offer.

The Island of Hawaii
Big Island
Big Island is home to several fascinating heritage sites, with the most famous of them all being the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This park is home to two of the most active volcanoes in the world, Maunaloa and Kilauea, providing volcanic landscapes unlike anywhere else in the world. Other state parks that are definitely worth visiting on Big Island include Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park, which is where Captain James Cook first set foot on the island, the ‘Akaka Falls State Park, and the Lapakahi State Historical Park, which is where you will be able to learn more about traditional Hawaiian lifestyles. For those seeking even more history, the Hulihee Palace used to be a vacation home for Hawaiian royalty, and can be found in the historic Kailua Village.

Oahu
Just like Big Island, there are many different heritage sites to be found in Oahu. The Bishop Museum is usually the first point of call for many visitors, as this will teach you so much about the Pacific region, providing a great starting point from which you can learn more about the islands’ history and culture. The Iolani Palace State Monument can also be found in Oahu, and is the only official royal state residence in the entire US. Other royalty-related sites include the Queen Emma Summer Palace and Washington Place, both of which are open for tours.

Kauai
There are just two main heritage sites to be found in Kauai, but one of these is considered by many to truly be a geological wonder. Dubbed “the Grand Canyon of the Pacific”, the Waimea Canyon State Park stretches out for over 14 miles, offering multiple scenic viewpoints, as well as a short nature trail. Also on Kauai is the Kilauea Lighthouse, which, in addition to being a National Wildlife Reserve, also offers incredible views of the island.

Manele Bay
Lanai
While Lanai may only have one heritage site, the Kaunolu Village, this archaeological site contains the largest surviving ruins of a prehistoric Hawaiian village, making it well worth exploring. From petroglyphs to Kahekili’s Leap, a 60 foot cliff from which warriors would dive to demonstrate their bravery, there is plenty of history to soak up here.

Maui
One of Maui’s heritage highlights includes the Haleakala National Park, which spans over 30,000 acres. This is a national park with one of the highest concentrations of endangered species, making it a must-visit for those who want to experience native Hawaiian wildlife. It is also home to the highest peak in Maui, meaning that there are many incredible views to be seen from here.

Each of the Hawaiian islands have at least one heritage site to visit, with some, such as Big Island and Oahu, being home to several. Whether you are seeking history, culture or natural beauty, these heritage sites promise to provide all of that plus so much more.

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Visit Hawaii’s Waterfalls

The islands of Hawaii are home to some of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world, and while it may seem easy to find one around just about every corner, there is no doubting that some are much more magnificent than others. From waterfalls that can only be reached via a challenging hike, to others that feature a serene and picturesque swimming hole, these are the Hawaiian waterfalls that you should definitely not miss out on.

Waimoku Falls Maui

Waimoku Falls, Maui
Situated on Maui, the Waimoku Falls can be found at the end of what is considered to be the best hike in Hawaii, otherwise known as the Pipiwai Trail. Since it lies in the Kipahulu District National Park, the surrounding areas are protected, meaning that this 400-foot waterfall flows throughout the year, and visitors are even able to enjoy a close-up view of its base. This stretch of the coastline is referred to as the Seven Sacred Pools, because further downstream there are many more waterfalls and swimming holes to be found, making this a fantastic location for those who want to explore a diverse range of falls.

Akaka Falls, Big Island

Akaka Falls, Big Island
The Akaka Falls is probably the most well-known waterfall on Big Island, and since it receives between 130 to 200 inches of rainfall each year, its constant gushing never disappoints. Measuring just over 440 feet, the Akaka Falls may look just like those hard-to-reach waterfalls that can be found in deep valleys, but this one is easily accessible, giving visitors the opportunity to view a type of waterfall that they may not have otherwise been lucky enough to see.

Hanakapi'ai Falls in Kauai

Hanakapi’ai Falls, Kauai
The area of coastline that houses the Hanakapi’ai Falls is considered to be one of the most picturesque on all of the Hawaiian islands, making it well worth a visit. In order to reach this towering waterfall, a day hike is needed, and although the actual hike may be quite slippery and challenging at times, it runs through lush jungles and areas of immense natural beauty, with the dramatic waterfall at the end making the hike most definitely worthwhile.

Rainbow Falls, Big Island

Rainbow Falls, Big Island
Cascading down 80 feet, the Rainbow Falls are set in a cove that is surrounded by lush, tropical jungle, providing the perfect photo opportunity, as well as a sense of excitement for history buffs, as the cove is said to be where King Kamehameha buried his father’s body. Since the Rainbow Falls tumble down onto Wailuku River, which is the longest river in the state, this is another waterfall that flows year-round, and, being so accessible, should most definitely make it onto your waterfall to-do list.

Hawaii’s natural beauty has earned the islands a reputation all over the world, with visitors traveling from just about every continent to check out some of the world-famous waterfalls that can be found here. From the convenience of the Rainbow Falls on Big Island to the jaw-dropping beauty of the Hanakapi’ai Falls, no matter how many of Hawaii’s waterfalls you are able to explore, their captivating pull will keep you wanting to return for more.

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Liliuokalani Gardens

Liliuokalani Gardens

Situated in Hilo on the island of Hawaii, the Liliuokalani Gardens is a 30-acre park that boasts exquisite Japanese gardens, pagodas, fish ponds and rock gardens. Named after Queen Liliuokalani, this beautifully landscaped park is a tribute to the first Japanese immigrants that worked on Hawaii island’s sugar cane fields. The garden was first created in the early 1900’s and is considered to be the largest Edo-style garden outside of Japan. With stunning views of surrounding areas and plenty to see and do, the park is an extremely popular attraction with visitors to the island.

Coconut Island
Known locally as Moku’ola, Coconut Island has played an important part in Hawaiian traditions over the years. This intriguing little island can be found just across the drive from the park, and is accessed by a narrow footbridge. Commonly referred to as the Healing Island, Coconut Island used to be the place that locals would visit in order to find natural cures for the illnesses and diseases that they encountered, and it used to also house an ancient healing temple. It is also from Coconut Island where visitors can enjoy breathtaking views across downtown Hilo and the Hilo bayfront.

Shoroan
Shoroan is a traditional Japanese tearoom that can be found on the grounds of Liliuokalani Gardens, and had to be rebuilt in 1994 after the original structure was destroyed by a fire. Shoroan’s actual tea room, known as its chashitsu, was donated to the garden by the Fifteenth Grand Tea Master of Urasenke, and is as traditional a tea room as you would find anywhere in Japan.

Japanese Garden, Hilo

The Japanese Gardens
The serene Waihonu Pond is at the center of the Japanese gardens, with the surrounding landscape being planned around this focal point. The pond is surrounded by charming footbridges, as well as gazebos, and there are also plenty of stunning plants all around, from weeping willow trees to azaleas to bamboo glades. The various paths and walkways around the park have recently been renovated, and a Japanese rock garden was also added, bringing about even more of a tranquil ambiance.

Banyan Tree Drive
Banyan Tree Drive, which flanks Liliuokalani Gardens with its canopy of Banyan trees, is definitely another of the park’s most impressive features. The majority of the trees were planted by the city in 1935, after which the remaining trees were planted by several famous individuals, who each have their name displayed next to the tree that they planted. From Richard Nixon to Babe Ruth, these trees boast some of the biggest names in American culture and history, and it is always exciting to take a stroll around and see who else’s name you discover.

The tourists that visit Liliuokalani Gardens usually stop by to take a look at all of the park’s stunning features, from the koi ponds to the colorful plants. The park is also extremely popular with the locals, who tend to prefer visiting in the early mornings for a peaceful workout session. Since the garden is not fenced off, it is open every day of the week, for 24 hours a day, making access convenient whenever you happen to decide that you want to check out this cultural and natural landmark on Big Island.

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Hawaii’s Most Indulgent Spas – OROGOLD Reviews

Woman enjoying a spa session

When in a setting as tropically idyllic as Hawaii, there is nothing better than pampering yourself with a couple of treatments at a luxurious island spa. From a spa without walls to a completely customizable pampering experience, OROGOLD brings you the most indulgent spas in Hawaii.

Pure Kauai, North Shore, Kauai
For a truly indulgent, completely customizable spa experience, head to Pure Kauai, on the north shore of Kauai. With private chefs to cook you healthy meals, yoga instructors, personal trainers, facialists and some of Hawaii’s best massage therapists, you can’t help but feel as though you are in paradise. In addition to the immense relaxation that you will feel at the spa, there is also a large outdoor aspect to Pure Kauai, and OROGOLD absolutely loves the other activities on offer, including surf lessons, all day hikes, canoeing, horseback riding and much more.

The Spa Without Walls, Kohala Coast, Big Island
This al fresco spa without walls has both oceanfront and waterfall treatment huts, where they offer a range of rejuvenating treatments. From the Hawaiian lomilomi massage and foot wrap to the Kahinu body treatment, each session is intensified by the sweet scent of the wild orchids and gardenias all around, as well as by the sound of crashing waves, giving you the ultimate in blissful experiences. There is also a steam room, a dry sauna, and a small boutique for you to purchase any of the signature spa products that you are likely to have fallen in love with.

Spa Grande, Wailea, Maui
Being located in the Grand Wailea Resort Hotel and Spa, an $800 million resort that boasts 780 rooms and 9 swimming pools, means that, even before entering the spa, you can almost guess just how indulgent Spa Grande is going to be. Measuring 50,000 square feet, and with 40 different treatment rooms, Spa Grande offers a variety of experiences, but their speciality is hydrotherapy. In addition to the huge jacuzzi, steam room and sauna, you will also find Japanese furo baths, Swiss showers, waterfall massages, and ‘speciality’ baths, created with local botanicals and mineral salts.

Mauna Lani, Kohala Coast, Big Island
Located amongst the vast lava fields of the Kohala Coast, this spa belongs to the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel and Bungalows, and is one of the most spiritual spas that OROGOLD has found in Hawaii. The walls of the showers, as well as the edges of the pathways, are formed from real lava, and the grounds are filled with beautifully fragrant medicinal herbs and plants. All of the therapists seem to exude a calming, healing energy, many of whom are Native Hawaiian and have been performing authentic massages for years. To indulge even further, take a look at staying in one of the five bungalows, each with their own butler service, as not only can you relax in one of the most exclusive bungalows in Hawaii, but therapists will also come to your bungalow to give you private treatments.

Hawaii is known for its ancient healing powers, and this is reflected in the many traditional spa treatments that you will find on each of the islands. Whether your back is filled with painful knots, or you simply want to relax in a Japanese bath, you can be sure that you will leave Hawaii feeling more rested than ever.