Big Island Blog - Kona Hawaii Travel Blog

Kilauea Volcano Update

2009-07-08T08:58:00.001-04:00

Kilauea activity update - from the US Geological Survey, Big Island

Surface flows in the Royal Gardens subdivision slowed early this past week in response to a deflation-inflation event at Kilauea's summit, but had picked up again by Wednesday evening. At the coast, the Waikupanaha and Kupapau ocean entries remain active and continue to produce prominent plumes, accompanied by small littoral explosions as lava spills into the ocean.

At Kilauea's summit, a series of collapses in the vent within Halemaumau Crater on Tuesday caused a significant widening of the vent. Rubble from the collapses filled the bottom of the vent and partly choked off the emission of gas, resulting in a wispy plume. Despite this rubble, the vent is still emitting elevated amounts of volcanic gas, resulting in high concentrations of sulfur dioxide downwind. The glow from the vent, visible early in the week from Jaggar Museum, was extinguished by the collapses. However, a webcam recorded a few points of incandescence within the vent on Wednesday night, suggesting that lava still resides deep within the vent below the pile of rubble.

Five earthquakes beneath Hawaii Island were reported felt this past week. A 3.5 magnitude earthquake occurred at 8:39 p.m., on June 28 and was located 2 miles southeast of Makawao, Maui, at a depth of 19 miles. Three earthquakes with magnitudes between 2.4 and 2.6 occurred on Tuesday (one at 1:38 and two at 2:29 p.m.), and were located beneath Halemaumau Crater at depths between 0.9-1.1 miles. A 3.3 magnitude earthquake occurred at 10:45 p.m. on Tuesday and was located six miles northeast of Kukuihaele at a depth of 16 miles.

Kona’s ‘Project Compassion’ To Serve Up Denny’s Dinners To Support Newborn Baskets for Big Island Babies

2009-07-08T07:47:00.002-04:00

Join us at Kona Denny's on July 12th from 4:00 - 9:00 PM

6,000+ babies…and counting. That’s how many Hawai’i Island infants have received an absolutely free newborn basket within 24 hours of birth at a Big Island hospital over the past 5 years.

The newborn baskets, part of the “Baby Steps To Stronger Big Island Families” program, are meant to welcome infants into the world and provide research-based “tools” to help each child and his or her family receive the best possible start to family life. Supported by grants, private donations and thousands of volunteer hours, the project started in December 2004 as a response to Mayor Harry Kim’s community-driven “Kick ICE” initiative.

The community is invited for a delicious dinner between 4 and 9 p.m., Sunday, July 12, 2009 at Denny’s Restaurant in Kailua-Kona to support the newborn basket project through “Project Compassion,” a partnership between the Rotary Club of Kona, Denny’s and local charities to provide financial support to non-profit organizations working in the community.

Denny's will donate 20% of all dinner bills and 100% of all tips to “Baby Steps To Stronger Big Island Families” newborn basket project.

The baskets most notably include a $30 Snugli (a front-pack baby carrier), which is very handy for carrying an infant hands-free. But, more than a nice thought or helpful convenience, the contents of the gift basket are based on research showing use of a Snugli promotes a caring, safe, bonded relationship between an infant and his or her family. These stronger first relationships significantly define and enhance a newborn’s relationships throughout life. Better relationships equate to higher self esteem, which experts agree help with making better choices throughout life.

Newborn baskets also include baby’s first book, useful information for new moms such as SIDS prevention, how to install car seats, and a comprehensive Resource Directory to help anxious new families connect with services in their community. “Newborn baskets have been a huge hit all over the island because they are such a lovely way for the community to celebrate the birth of a new child,” said Angela Thomas, who has led the project from its inception.

“But presenting every new mom with a lovely gift is really just the tip of the iceberg. Because of solid research about the significant value of attachment to infant development, our project has been supported by many public and private partners – from KTA SuperStores to the Hawai’i State Legislature to Governor Linda Lingle and Lt. Gov. Duke Aiona to Kamehameha Schools and many more, including nearly a hundred volunteers who have spent more than 5,000 unpaid hours assembling baskets for our island’s three major hospitals.”

“Denny’s Restaurant and the Rotary Club of Kona, through “Project Compassion” are helping to keep these Snuglis and gift baskets being delivered to Big Island hospitals. You can help ensure that our Big Island babies thrive by dining at Denny’s on Sunday, July 12, between 4 and 9 p.m.,” Thomas said.

Waiting on customers during Denny’s “Project Compassion” dinners will be a cadre of VIP “wait help” including LAVA105FM’s Sherry Bracken, Susan Maddox of Friends of the Future and North Hawaii Rotary’s newly installed President, Family Support Services of West Hawai’i’s JoAnn Bishop Freed, Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce’s Bill Sanborn and Vivian Landrum, PATCH’s Gail Judd, Hawaii Community Foundation’s Diane Chadwick and several surprise guests.

No reservations are needed for Denny’s “Project Compassion” dinner. For information about “Baby Steps To Stronger Big Island Families, call Angela Thomas (990-6754).
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Editor’s Note: Data on the significance and value of “attachment” and bonding and the benefits of using a Snugli is available by calling Angela Thomas.

Download - Big Island E-Book

2009-06-07T08:31:00.004-04:00

For a mere $2 you can download the 30+ page Big Island Vacation Planner electronic book in easy to read and easy to print PDF format. Our E-Book includes much of our website information in a concise, easy to maneuver E-Book. Want a paper product or brochure to take with you on your trip?

This E-Book is perfect for planning your next trip - and since you download it right to your PC or notebook, you won't need an internet connection to use this product. Once you download our E-Book, you will always have access to the best information on what to see and do on the Big Island of Hawaii!

Download the E-Book and print it out now!

Question: Hotel during Ironman Triathlon

2009-05-08T21:59:00.002-04:00

Below is an email question we received from one of our readers:

My husband is competing in the Kona Ironman, Oct 10th. I need a local's advice on where to stay that is family oriented. We have two kids (5 & 6 yrs). I'll be by myself most of the time while my husband is focusing on the race. We'll be in Kona Oct 3-11th.

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Answer: The Royal Kona Resort hotel is right on the water in downtown Kailua-Kona -- I just stayed there not too long ago - great hotel with plenty of parking. The main attraction here is the excellent location -- smack-dab in the middle of Kailua-Kona town, right on Alii drive -- just a short walk from the swim portion of the race.

A more-family oriented hotel (and one of our favorites) is the Hilton Waikoloa Beach Resort up in Kohala -- about a 20 minute drive from Kailua-Kona. Lots of family-friendly amenities, numerous beautiful pools with water slides, man-made lagoon with sea turtles, etc., but further from the race...

I guess the first thing you'll need to decide is what area are you looking for a hotel. For more information, read our article about Where to Stay on the Big Island.

April Activities on the Big Island

2009-03-27T10:24:00.001-04:00

Excerpt from www.mauinews.com

The seventh annual Tsunami Talk Story Festival will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. April 5 at Sangha Hall in downtown Hilo and includes dinner and talks by people who lived through the tsunamis, which inundated Hilo in 1946, 1960 and 1975. Visit www.tsunami.org.

Of course, one of the biggest annual events in Hilo is the Merrie Monarch Hula Festival April 12 to 18. The weeklong event includes exhibitions, live music, arts and crafts fairs and kahiko (ancient) and 'auana (modern) hula competitions. It is mostly free, except for the hula shows.

Hawaiiana Live will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesdays in April at the Palace Theatre in Hilo with storytelling, film, music and hula. Cost is adults $5, and children free.

Other popular attractions are the Mokupapapa Discovery Center featuring a saltwater aquarium; and the Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens with Namaste, a white Bengal tiger. It gets fed daily at 3:30 p.m. and it's a sight to behold. The children's petting zoo is open Saturdays and botanical gardens abound.

Winter Weather in Kailua-Kona

2009-03-22T13:34:00.005-04:00

The following was a question emailed to us:

We are looking forward to the Kailua-Kona area. We have never been in early December or the middle of January. Just wondering what the weather would be at that time.

Thank You,

Ron & Miriam

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Answer:

Ron and Miriam, your winter weather (Dec and Jan) is mild and still extremely enjoyable. Daytime temperatures rise into the 80s and at night drop into the 60s. Surface water temps are in the mid to high 70s.

Take caution, in the winter the western shores (Kona) can be rough with ocean swells making diving conditions less enjoyable - especially late in the day.

If you will be traveling to Waimea or Volcano, both are at higher elevations and can be cold and rainy this time of year - pack at least a fleece and rain coat.

Beachgoing in Kona is still excellent in the Winter - sunny skies will dominate. For more details check out our Big Island climate page and our Big Island weather page.

Question: Where Should I Stay?

2009-03-09T22:45:00.003-04:00

A Question was emailed to us:
I am planning a trip May 6-10 2009. I have a 8 year old son and my boyfriend. I need to find a hotel good for kids and possibly nanny service if we decide to go out one night. I also would take any suggestions as to what part of the big island is good to stay. Thank you, Stacey
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Answer:
Stacey,
We recommend the Hilton Waikoloa Village hotel - it is definitely family-friendly with tons of activities, its own private lagoon, huge waterslides and pools, and more. It is a spectacular resort with 62 acres of jungles, waterfalls, trails, pools, rivers, trams, boats, shopping, dining, dolphins, and activities. Located on the Kohala Coast of Hawaii's Big Island, the Hilton Waikoloa Village lets you experience breathtaking tropical gardens, abundant wildlife, award-winning dining, world-class shopping, art and culture, and an array of activities ranging from golf and tennis to an interactive dolphin program and the Kohala Sports Club & Spa.

However, the night life at the Waikoloa is really dull. Your best bet for night life is to drive down to the town of Kailua-Kona (although you will have to drive back at the end of the night too..) Althought Kailua won't be mistaken for a bustling downtown Waikiki or anything close, it does offer various beach bars, a great brew pub (Kona Brewery), the Hard Rock Cafe, and numerous other watering holes.

I must warn you, the Big Island is NOT renowned for its night life, its daytime activities are incredible, however. Whether you stay near Kailua-Kona or up in Kohala (where the Waikoloa Village is located) you are near immaculate beaches, great snorkeling, and tons of sunshine!

Question: Where Can I View the Lava Flow?

2009-03-09T22:36:00.010-04:00

One of our users emailed us the following question:
Can you tell me if it's currently (and has been recently) possible to hike to the lava flow & see it relatively close up? Or is the only way to see it via helicopter?
Thanks, Dan
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Answer:
Dan, Because the volcano lava flow is so unpredictable, the best thing to do is check the latest Kilauea volcano lava flow update, or call the Park at (808)985-6000. You can also view a map of the most current lava flow.

Depending on the conditions, you MAY be able to view lava/volcanic activity at one, some, all, or none of the below:

a.) Red-glowing vent/smoke plume from the Halemaumau Crater vent (Crater Rim Drive).
b.) Ocean entry lava flow - a 1-3 mile hike from the end of Chain of Craters Road.
c.) Surface and/or ocean entry lava flow north of the Park - accessible via county road outside of the Volcanoes National Park.

Check out our Kilauea Lava Flow web page for more details.

Download Big Island Brochure

2009-02-24T22:02:00.003-05:00

We have received numerous requests for brochures, magazines, and guide books from our site. We do not produce any printed guides as our main product is our website. However, due to popular demand, we have begun work on a downloadable e-guidebook. This downloadable book will contain the main parts of our website in an easy to reference and printable format that you can take with you on your trip.

Although our online material is still our centerpiece, this downloadable guide will allow you to take our product with you on your trip and it wil aid you in planning you Big Island adventures. More to follow soon.

Car Security at Big Island Dive Sites

2009-02-14T09:00:00.002-05:00

Below is a question submitted by one of our users:

Comments: I am planning on diving on the Big Island this March and really appreciate the reviews on the shore diving sites. I was wondering if vehicles are frequently broken into while they are parked at the dive sites? For example at Puako Village End.
Thanks
Bill
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Bill,

When parking your car at any dive site on the Big Island (or at any hiking trail head too), make sure you sanitize your car -- that is ensure nothing of any value is visible. Minimize the temptation of thieves to want to break into your car. That means don't leave anything on the dashboard, console, seats, etc. to include sunglasses, cell phones, DVD players, any bags/purses/luggage, shoes or gear, etc. Basically clean out your car as if you were returning it to the car rental place...

With that said, I often dive from austere dive sites on the Big Island as well as park my car in strange (unsecure) places when I go hiking. My car was fine when I dived at Puako. Most of the guide books will talk about crime and securing your vehicle - keep your car sanitized and you should be fine... Enjoy your trip!

Laupahoehoe Music Festival

2009-02-03T00:38:00.003-05:00

Laupahoehoe Music Festival

Malama Hawaii Nei was formed 5 year’s ago to manage the Laupahoehoe Music festival after Big Island musician Bruddah Smitty desired to do some thing to help the children of the community of Laupahoehoe. It is a committee of volunteers whose sole purpose is to provide scholarships for area students as well as fund community projects. Last year, five college scholarships were awarded from proceeds from the event.

Malama Hawaii Nei presents its fourth annual festival at beautiful Laupahoehoe Point Beach Park on Feb 14 form 9:00 am till 5:00 pm

Featured entertainers include The Lim Family, Sugah Daddy, Times 5, Beamer-Solomon Halau O Po’Ohala, Johnny Shot, Hula Halau O Mailelaulani, Bruddah Smitty and Friend’s, Mixjah and Robi Kahakalau. Food and Crafts available. Hosted by Tommy “Kahikina” Ching and Skylark Rosetti.
Lot’s of grinds and crafts too!

Tickets are $10.00 and are available at the Taro Patch in Honokaa, Music Exchange in Hilo and Waimea, Hilo Guitars & Ukulele’s, Mr. Ed’s Bakery in Honomu,50’s Café in Laupahoehoe and at the gate. Age 10 and under free and no coolers please. This is an alcohol and drug free event.

2008-10-22T22:49:00.005-04:00

One of the most striking things first felt by new and recurring visitors to Hawaii, is the overwhelming sense of fertility, the lush vegetation, the sweet smelling flowers and orchids right when you get off the plane in the open air airport. Right as you arrive, the wonderful smells of plumeria flowers, blooming orchids, and tropical flowers and fruits will overcome you. Although the big Island boasts nearly a dozen different climate zones, the most memorable is the tropical vegetation. You get a great sense of this as your aircraft circles the north eastern slopes of Mauna Kea on your arrival into Hilo airport and as you look below and to the right of you, you see dense green jungle weaving its way on the eastern slopes of the volcano. As you peer down through your airline window, you will make out many streams and river tributaries spilling from waterfalls that are carved into the sides of the ocean cliffs. On the Hamakua Coast, the lush jungle vegetation creeps right up to the edge of the rocky shoreline carved out by steep gullies and the occasional dousing rain shower. The beautiful tropical flowers are everywhere, starting right there at the airport with the sweet smelling leis hung from visitors necks. The ever present lightly blowing Pacific breeze brings all the fresh smells of nature right to you. Even the rainstorms here on the big Island, bring an added sense of freshness that you just don't feel from the precipitation on the mainland.

You can get a sense of the wonderful harmony of green trees and perfectly manicured flowers at the local Japanese gardens such as Queen Liliuokalani Gardens in Hilo. For greater adventure, take a trip to the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Gardens situated on the Hamakua coast. Here, you can indulge yourself in an extensive garden that offers winding nature trails surrounded by tropical flowers, plants, trees, and great views of the dramatic coastline as it gets pounded by the waves. To get a real sense of the dense vegetation that covers such a large portion of the big Island, all you need to do is take a short trip and hike around the rain forests nearby. You can come up close and personal to the beautiful rain forest in the volcanoes national Park. As you drive down the Chain of Craters Road, you'll wander through the canopied rain forest and see prehistoric-era ferns swarming the sides of the road. Also, close to downtown Hilo, is Rainbow Falls where you can see the swollen falls after a rainstorm and admire the tall trees and fertile wilderness. At the edge of Hilo town, is the Panaewa Zoo where you can also get a very good sense of the rain forest. On the surrounding hills, is foliage so thick walking through will bring ground brush up your thighs or waste. Yes, Hilo is the green side of the island and you can expect nothing less than a fertile aromatic paradise – in between rainy downpours.

Kona Ironman Triathlon World Championship

2008-10-09T23:34:00.003-04:00

The World Championship IronMan course on October 11th will sends competitors on an open water swim across the Kailua-Kona Bay, 112 miles around the entire island on a bike, and a grueling 26.2 mile marathon run along the beach and dried lava beds. The temperature should be in the low 80s, but that doesn’t offer much relief considering the island’s humidity and the piping-hot lava fields that flank portions of the trail.

To get to the starting line in Kona, you must either be very lucky and get yourself a spot through the lottery, or very talented, and win yourself a qualifying spot at one of the qualifying events held around the world.

Tens-of-thousands of triathletes try to get one of those coveted Ironman spots every year. Only 1,800 succeeded.

This is race week and the crowds have gathered in normally serene Kailua-Kona town to watch this sporting marvel. The Big Island offers rugged terrain (dried lava fields, steep volcanoes), and diverse climate zones (hot and humid coastal zones and dry deserts, even cool and damp mountains). This is the mother of all races and a true test of athletic fortitude.

Kona has been suffering from vog, which is similar to fog, but caused by volcanic eruptions going on over the other side of the island ann the toxic gasses that are released.

Every day around midday, the haze sets in and so does the humidity which will make running along Alii Drive even harder. It seems to just hang around the city but as soon as you head out of town on the bike course the sun comes out and it's a beautiful day.

Good luck racers!

Vog affects Big Island Crops, Visitors

2008-08-02T15:48:00.004-04:00

Excerpt from the Honolulu Star Bulletin:

Big Island crops are shriveling as sulfur dioxide from Kilauea wafts over them and envelops them in "vog," or volcanic smog. People are wheezing and schoolchildren are being kept indoors during recess. High gas levels led Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to close several days this month, forcing the evacuation of thousands of visitors.

Residents of this volcanic island are used to toxic gas. But this haze is so bad that some farmers are thinking about growing different crops, and many people are worrying about their health.

The Vog has been particularly evident the past several months this summer. When the Trade Winds aren't present to dissipate them, the vog lingers more than ever and the usually clear, sunny skies of Kona are replaced with a hazy - almost overcast conditions. The vog makes outdoors activities less enjoyable and local tour guides like Ewa from Aloha Kayak Company thinks it is responsible for his drop in clientele.

Recent changes in volcanic activity at Halemaumau crater at the Kilauea summit have created potential health hazards for people with respiratory conditions and others on the island of Hawai‘i.

Government and private agencies are working together to monitor volcanic emissions and provide the most reliable information to help those affected make the best decisions for themselves and their families.

Changing and unpredictable conditions such as weather, wind direction and the amount of volcanic activity make it difficult to provide specific guidance for every situation. The Department of Health (DOH) advises Hawai‘i island residents to get updates and advisories on vog and volcanic emissions from the County of Hawai‘i Civil Defense local radio broadcasts and their website at www.scd.hawaii.gov.

Because of the hazardous activity of the eruption at Halemaumau Crater at the Volcanoes National Park, several portions of the Park are closed to the public for their safety. Check the Volcanoes National Park official website to check the status of the park and see which parts of the park are closed. The prevailing northeast tradewinds generally blow fumes from the volcano away from visitor areas. However, during times of weak winds or winds from the south (the opposite direction), volcanic fumes may impact visitor areas, prompting the park to close. Please be flexible and alert.

One Day is Not Enough for the Big Island

2008-07-13T12:16:00.004-04:00

Recently, friends of mine were visiting the Big Island from the mainland and used the website to help plan their upcoming trip. They were planning on visiting Oahu and then the Big Island. They took a look at the website and spoke with me and then started to plan their itinerary. Unfortunately, they only allowed themselves one day for the Big Island - flying interisland early in the morning, renting a car, then departing late at night back to Oahu.

I tried my best to entice them to stay for more than one day in order to see all that the Big Island had to offer. Sure enough, their trip to the Big Island was a whirlwind tour with a very quick pace to visit just a few of the attractions. They ended up flying into Hilo, driving up to Akaka Falls, then down to the Volcano Park and sightseeing and hiking until the end of the day.

I can't emphasize it enough for those planning trips to the Big Island -- there is just too much to see and the Island is so big and spread out that one day is just not enough. You have to allow yourself several days (at least) to see the attractions, and even then, you will probably have to just pick a few things your really want to do and stick to them - or you'll end up with an overwhelming trip with a tight itinerary and no time to enjoy the sights or soak it all in. Remember, the Big Island is bigger than all the other Hawaiian Islands combined and the attractions are spread out throughout its coasts, mountains, and inland highlands.

Check out our Big Island Trip Itineraries section with suggested itineraries for your trip.

Diving with a Hawaiian Monk Seal (Kauai)

2008-07-07T19:18:00.003-04:00

Although this post takes place on the Island of Kauai, I thought the video was interesting enough to post on this blog. I recently had a chance to dive with a Hawaiian Monk Seal off of Ni'ihau, near Kauai. It was a wonderful and unique opportunity to see this endangered species (less than 1500 known alive). The dive was pretty tame up until the point we climbed and swam parallel a large plateau - here was where the Monk Seal was perched, just lying and relaxing.

Then, as our dive group ascended onto the plateau to observe, the Monk Seal carried on with his dog-like antics, showing off his "tricks" in front of us (playing hide and seek, biting his fin, rubbing his face on the ground) And, just to impress us, he filled his throat up with air and gave off one large bellowing growl! All I can say is - he was probably as curious of us as we were of him! He actually ventured to just within a few feet of me as I was videoing the whole encounter...

Diving with the Turtles at Honaunau

2008-06-28T11:15:00.005-04:00

I recently went SCUBA Diving with the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles at Honaunau Bay (Place of Refuge), South Kona on the Big Island. This is one of my favorite places to dive on the Big Island and offers an expansive reef in relatively shallow water (that means a lot of bottom time!) The quality of the reef is excellent with a variety of different types and colors of mature coral that stretches out and around the bay. The visibility is usually typical Kona (excellent) - although on this particular stormy day it wasn't its usual 100' of clarity. Also, one added bonus - you are pretty much guaranteed to swim with some turtles!

This spot is popular with snorkelers too (if they can figure out the directions). The area closest to shore is shallow and offers exceptional snorkeling. The entry point is right off of a lava rock shelf. As popular a site as this is - if no one was in the water you would probably drive right by as it is a non-descript bend in the road.

Video - Kayaking to Makalawena

2008-06-20T21:28:00.005-04:00

Here is a video clip of us kayaking onto Makalawena Beach - there were a few minor swells and rollers, luckily the arrival area was an empty sandy beach with no obstacles... Also, I forgot to mention that we kayaked next to a pod of Spinner Dolphoins on the way back to Kua Bay - it was quite memorable.

Kayak to Makalawena Beach

2008-06-18T03:34:00.004-04:00

This morning we put in our Kayaks at Kua Bay (Maniniowali Beach) right as the park opened up at 9:00 AM. On board we had our snorkeling gear, our waterproof cameras and a cooler with kalua pig sandwiches inside. Our goal was to kayak to Makalawena Beach - a secluded and austere beach that is difficult to access. We talked about attempting this a while ago in a previous blog post but were unsuccessful - today we were determined to do it! Luckily, the weather smiled upon us with calm seas and sunshine. So, we loaded our kayak and carried it down over the rocks from the pavement to the bleached-white sandy beach below and started paddling.

Ahead and to the north there was already a dive boat anchored atop the reef nearby and our curiosity almost pulled us in that direction to investigate the diving conditions there - but we were focused on our goal of reaching Makalawena (many say this is the prettiest beach on the island...) We started paddling to the south and the scenery was spectacular. The waters of Kua Bay are many different shades of blue - from emerald to a light and bright blue, to a darker navy blue where the reef is below. We continued and passed the large mound of a hill to our left and noticed for the first time a row of houses near its base - I wonder, more vacation rentals - or perhaps exclusive beach bungalows for the rich and famous?

As we kept paddling beyond this cove, we began to see the strand of trees that borders the northern end of Makalawena and we knew we were not far. As we paddled, the waters were so clear that we could make out glimpses of the vast reef below us. On several occassions, I lowered myself into the water with a mask and snorkel to marvel at the underwater topography and corals - the reef was beautiful. By now, we could make out a glimpse of thegently sloping dunes at Makalawena. The sand there is a special shade of white and could be seen shining in the distance, surrounded by lava rocks and underbriush. As we stared at the beach we were dissappointed by seeing a few people already on the beach - we were hoping to be the only ones there...

As we approached the northen edge of the beach, we notice a very shallow reef shelf below us with vibrant yellow and blue hued colors. We decided to anchor the kayak and snorkel the reef below us. We dropped our anchor on a patch of sand at the bottom and saw a thriving reef below us in about 20 feet of water. We spent a short while snorkeling and free diving above the reef. Then we finally decided it was time to paddle in to shore - at Makalawena!

We navigated the approach avoiding lava rocks and a shallow reef and were pushed by surging waves the final distance onto the immacculate beach - we were finally there! The beach was better than I imagined and better than any piuctures could capture. The sand was perfect - soft, fine, and firm under our bare feet. The azure waters shined and the white sand contrasted starkly next to the dried lava rocks and surrounding green shrubbery. The waves lapped on shore on the beach and pounded the lava rocks sending sea spray into the air. Makalawena is actually three beach crescents located side by side to each other - we had landed on the center crescent. We spent some time exploring and photographing the beach and eventually sat on the lava rocks to enjoy our sandwiches before paddling back to Kua Bay. It was a wonderful day! Right now, my legs ache a bit because I forgot to add sunblock to them and they are a bit sun burnt...

Trip to Kauai (Part 1)

2008-06-15T20:47:00.003-04:00

I have just returned from a week to the island of Kauai. Although this website and blog are meant to concentrate on "all things Big Island", I will indulge you with a few musings and anecdotes from my trip to Kauai. In the near future, I will be posting detailed travelogues, photos, videos, and virtual tours about Kauai on a separate website...

When first arriving Lihue Airport I marveled as to how similar in layout and appearance it was to the Hilo Airport! On the arrival and landing, our plane came in low over the ridge (south of the airfield) and took a hard right descending turn to touchdown - it was pretty exciting and the (close up) view of the lushly vegetated mountains and rugged terrain was unbelievable. Kauai was a sight to behold.

My initial impression of the island was that it was very scenic and captured a lot of the feel from "Old Hawaii" - much like the eastern (Hilo) side of the Big Island does. Kauai has a lot of small towns with a few roads connecting inbetween - mostly one lane each way with a guaranteed view of the mountains from any spot on the island! There are a lot of white sand beaches on Kauai - some are small and hidden by dense foliage or palm trees, others are wide open long stretches of sand (several miles) lined with surfers enjoying a favorable break -- the beaches reminded me of many in Kohala on the Big Island, minus the dried lava fields. There are beaches on all four coasts of Kauai - however, the Western shore (Na Pali Coast) is nearly inaccessible...

The weather was as unpredictable as Hilo / Hamakua - with guaranteed early morning showers, and spotty rain here and there inbetween bright blue tropical skies. Without a doubt Kauai was very pretty - we wanted to stop our car nearly every mile on nearly every drive to take pictures of the scenery. Like I always tell my friends, Hawaii will turn anyone into a good photographer - and Kauai is no exception.

Kilauea Explosion - Portions of Park Closed

2008-03-22T23:30:00.003-04:00

There was an explosion at the Halemaumau Crater, Kilauea Volcano, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on 3/19/2008. Rocks shot from the Wednesday's explosion damaged a wooden fence that visitors used to peer into the crater and created hazards across nearby roads and paths.

Areas in the park that are shut because of explosive debris or high sulfur dioxide levels are:
• Crater Rim Drive between Kilauea Military Campsouth/southeast to Chain of Craters Road.
• Crater Rim Trail from Jaggar Museum parking lot south/southeast to Chain of Craters Road.
• All trails leading to Halema`uma`u crater are closed including those from Byron Ledge, 'Iliahi (Sandalwood) Trail, and Ka'u Desert Trail.
Rocks shot from the explosion damaged a wooden fence that visitors used to peer into the crater and created hazards across nearby roads and paths.

Excerpt from USA Today:

By Dave Dondoneau and Dan Nakaso, The Honolulu Advertiser
HONOLULU — Plumes of smoke billowed out of Kilauea volcano Thursday, and visitors were kept at least a mile away from the scene of the volcano's first explosion in 84 years.

Scientists who monitor instruments measuring activity at Kilauea volcano were surprised by the explosion that occurred at 2:58 a.m. Wednesday. The blast scattered boulders and smaller rocks over 75 acres of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island of Hawaii, said Steve Brantley, deputy scientist in charge of the U.S. Geological Survey's Hawaiian Volcano Observatory.
COMPLETE COVERAGE: Honolulu Advertiser

Scientists do not know whether — or when — a similar explosion will occur, Brantley said. There were no reported injuries, but falling rocks — including a boulder about 3½ feet in diameter — damaged the popular Halemaumau lookout and its parking lot. Rubble was scattered along Crater Rim Drive, the road that visitors use to drive through the park, Brantley said.
The explosion at Halemaumau crater was the first since 1924.

"There have not been any additional explosions since the one early Wednesday morning," Brantley said.

Scientists at the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory did not know what to expect in the coming days or weeks.

"It's very exciting for all of us," said Jim Gale, chief of interpretation at the observatory. "It's such a change from the overall activity I've seen in my seven years here.

"We're exploring new worlds," said Jim Kauahikaua, scientist-in-charge at the observatory. "The recent explosive event represents a significant addition and change to Kilauea volcano's ongoing activity, and the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory is using every means available to study its causes and consequences."

Gale said most of the park remains safe and open, but 1 mile of Crater Rim Drive was closed from Kilauea Military Camp to Jaggar Museum as a precaution.

Sulfur dioxide levels have been on the rise at Kilauea since December, Gale said. "There's enough sulfur dioxide being put out at the Kilauea summit right now to fill 150 Goodyear blimps a day," he added. "It is a concern."

The sulfur dioxide gasses pose a health risk, especially to people who suffer from asthma and chronic coughing, observatory geochemist Jeff Sutton said.

Fire and police authorities made emergency plans to evacuate nearby villages if the winds blew toxic gasses in their direction, said Duane Hosaka at Hawaii County Civil Defense. The volcano's gas emissions have moved toward the sea, rather than over populated areas.

One mile outside of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a handful of visitors canceled reservations at the 14-room Kilauea Lodge and Restaurant after inaccurate rumors spread that the park service was evacuating people after the explosion, said Janet Coney, the lodge's office manager. "They're not evacuating," Coney said.

"To me, there's a lot of excitement," she said. "I hope the mountain doesn't go. But with Mother Nature, you never know what could happen. You have to take one day at a time."

Visitors Up Close with Kilauea Lava Flow

2008-03-09T16:14:00.005-04:00

The saga of the Kilauea Volcano lava flow continues. Last year, the lava flow changed direction, flowing further east and through more remote areas - unfortunately preventing the general public from viewing the geological phenomenon. Since then, the lava flow threatened the edge of a few austere housing communities, but for the most part remained hidden from public view. But, in the last several days, the dynamic conditions changed yet again as the lava flow made a turn and presented a wonderful opportunity for tourists and locals alike to view the active lava flow's ocean entry - where the rivers of lava flow into the ocean resulting in plumes of steam, hissing of super-hot lava mixing with the roaring ocean waves.

Excerpt from KGMB Channel 9:

For some it was a once in a lifetime event, seeing lava flow into the Pacific Ocean from the Kilauea volcano. Saturday was the first time, visitors could legally get this close to the spectacular view. Big Island County opened a new viewing area or the public, and its just a quarter mile away from where the lava hits the sea.

Excerpt from KPUA AM670:

Viewing area to see lava flow opens
By Associated Press
HONOLULU (AP) _ A viewing area allowing people to see lava from Kilauea volcano flow into the water has opened. The site is accessible by a half-mile pedestrian trail and is a little more than a quarter mile from where the lava meets the sea. Officials expect hundreds of people to visit the site, which is the first way to legally see lava from the ground or watch it enter the sea since last June. State, county and federal officials say they will meet each morning to decide whether the lava flows threaten visitors and need to close the viewing area. Civil defense officials say they will have security at the site to prevent people from going there after hours. The site is open from 2 to 10 p.m.

This was the best re-cap of of how to view the latest lava flow:
Excerpt from the Honolulu Advertiser (3/7/08)

HILO, Hawai'i — Lava completed its trip down the slopes of Kilauea volcano and has begun flowing into the ocean, and Big Island officials braced for an expected surge of people visiting the remote Puna coastline to see Madame Pele's handiwork.

The area around the lava flow is still closed to the public, but state and county crews are expected to finish improving about two miles of rough access road today to provide a safe route to trails and observation points where spectators can see the lava.

A blessing and opening of the improved road and turnaround point are scheduled for tomorrow at 2 p.m., according to Big Island Mayor Harry Kim.

After inspecting the scene yesterday morning, Kim told his staff the latest flow offers a fascinating opportunity for visitors to view lava, but also poses risks.

The area has little or no cell phone service, almost no facilities and it will be easy for newcomers to become disoriented as they hike to get closer to the ocean entry, Kim said.

The visitor turnaround is being built in a forested area that was bypassed by previous flows, and another risk is that new fingers of lava could extend from a flow upslope of the access road and enter the old-growth area, starting fires and causing methane explosions as the lava reaches the vegetation, said Jim Kauahikaua, scientist-in-charge of the Hawaiian Volcanoes Observatory.

"There is a certainty of more fingers," and scientists will closely monitor the widening flow activity mauka of the improved road, Kauahikaua said. "It's expanding, so it will go east and west."

The lava began entering the ocean late Wednesday or early yesterday morning.

Kauahikaua said the pahoehoe flow is rapidly coating a bench extending off the coast, and is blasting steam into the air as it touches the seawater. He said there is a good chance a second finger of lava will continue downslope and by Saturday also will reach the ocean.

"It's really quite a spectacular sight, a lot of lava going into the ocean," he said.

ACROSS ROYAL GARDENS

The lava flow's passage through the Royal Gardens subdivision prompted Civil Defense to evacuate about five people from the area Monday as the flow threatened to sever an access road that the county built for lava viewing in 2001.

That road was cut Tuesday evening, and now state and county crews are working on a new turnaround further east to allow people to get close to the lava viewing area.

The flow passing through Royal Gardens offers the most accessible lava viewing opportunities from the ground in many months, and county officials expect 1,000 or more visitors a day will head for the new viewing site once it is opened.

Ted Miller, construction and maintenance superintendent for the state Department of Transportation's Highway Division on the Big Island, estimated the improvements are costing the state about $100,000.

More than a dozen state workers were operating graders, backhoes and other equipment to prepare the access road, which is made up of remnants of the old two-lane Highway 130 that was severed repeatedly by lava. The highway remnants are connected by narrow passages cut through lava that covered the highway.

The crews are improving the two-mile route, and adding a turnaround that will double as a helicopter landing area in emergencies, Miller said. Cars can park on the shoulder of the paved stretch, he said.

Traffic may be slow because the links between the paved areas are only one lane wide, forcing motorists to pull over to let one another pass, he said.

MAKING PEOPLE 'HAPPY'

The county in 2001 charged a toll for people who used a similar access road to get to the flow, and Kim said he may impose a similar charge again to recoup the cost of roadwork. Initially, however, there will be no charge to use the road, which will be open from 2 to 10 p.m.

"I think Madame Pele has given us a tremendous opportunity to admire her creation," Kim said.

"Even if this stops one day after it started, we're going to make a few hundred or a few thousand people happy," Kim said. "We're going to make a lot of people experience things that they've never even dreamt about."

Gov. Linda Lingle is expected to survey the flow tomorrow morning from a Hawai'i National Guard helicopter.

Visiting the Big Island Without a Car

2008-02-18T15:18:00.005-05:00

Recently, friends of mine visited the Big Island of Hawaii. Naturally, I tried to help them plan their vacation - I offered tips on where to go, what hotel to stay at, and overall tried to steer them towards the http://www.letsgo-hawaii.com/ website for all of their vacation planning needs.

Unfortunately, I must have forgotten to mention that they would need a rental car (but, who goes on vacation without renting a car?)... Well, these friends arrived at Kona Keahole Airport without any plans for a car and then simply took a (very expensive) taxi to their hotel in Kailua-Kona town and began their vacation. Later on I did find out why they did this -- although they had never been to the Big Island, they had previously visited Oahu many times and were impressed with the robust public transportation system that exists there (namely the public bus) -- they thought the Big Island 1.) was smaller with attractions closer together and 2.) there was good public transportation. Wrong on both counts.

So, for the first several days all they did was venture a short walking distance from the Royal Kona Resort hotel on Alii Drive -- never even making it to the Kohala area beaches or Kahaluu Beach Park, or Captain Cook or South Kona -- because they did not have a vehicle. They remarked to me later, "There are no beaches on the Big Island!" - and I thought to myself, what a strange thing to say (until I realized they never even made it to the beach!) Eventually, for the last few days of their trip, they rented a car and drove to the Volcanoes National Park, Hilo, and then up the Hamakua Coast and back up over to Kona - probably the best part of their trip.

So, the moral of the story is - RENT A CAR on the Big Island. There is so much more to do and see and everything is so spread out compared to the other (smaller) islands. Rent a car (and pack some comfortable walking shoes) and you will be able to access all of the islands splendid attractions.

Backcountry Hiking Plans

2008-02-07T21:44:00.000-05:00

My brother and I have laid out some plans to do some backcountry overnight hiking on the Big Island sometime in the next several months. I have wanted to hike deep beyond the Pololu Valley, past the Honokane Nui and beyond. I previously read a blog (that I can no longer find online) that described a wonderful hike many valleys beyond the Pololu, venturing over steep ridges, passing rain-soaked valleys, and far from the casual hiker or passer-by. I've been pouring over a 1:24K topo map of the area and see several marked trails - but I have no idea what the actual condition of those trails actually is. I would like to make this trip an over-nighter, so that we don't have to rush back in the dark -- however I also do not know where an appropriate (or even legal) campsite may be... I'll post more information when we have more figured out.

Our second option is to hike down into the Waipio Valley, across the mouth of the valley, up the intimidating"zig-zag trail" (a.k.a. Muliwai Trail) up and over the staggering ridge, eventually into the scenic and peaceful Waimanu Valley. This valley has been more frequented by hikers and campers - and there are plenty of blogs and online photos of the Waimanu. I think it would be a challenging hike and a very pretty spot to camp out.

Our third option is to hike the Napau Crater trail at the Volcanoes National Park. This is a long hike - with a small campsite located enroute to the spectacular views of Pu'u O'o Crater. I took a look at the trail head and the information published at the Volcano Visitor's Center as well as online trqavelogues -- this looks to be a very interesting, challenging hike. There are several high-terrain points along the route with sweeping views of Napau Crater and other depressions. The grand finale is Pu'i O'o - which I heard is wonderful viewed from here at night. No doubt there would be few if any other persons encountered on this hike. Park rules state that you must register at the Visitor's Center before commencing this hike.

The last hike proposed was enthusiastically brought up by my brother who is looking for a herculean challenge: hike to the summit of Mauna Loa. This looks to be the mother of all hikes on the Big Island - something we would need the right gear and the right conditioning before we attempted this. And I heard it can be brutal -- the rate of altitude change is such that altitude sickness (adema) is felt by many that attempt this hike.

We will be taking a look at all of these options and planning which hikes we will be doing. I have already begun accumulating the gear that I will need for any of these hikes. I recently bought a new pair of hiking boots -- the sturdy and very supportive Asolo 95Ns, as well as a full set of rain outerwear (top and pants), water purifier + tablets to tackle even the tiniest Leptosperosis particles, and I plan on finally getting a good set of trekking poles (something from Black Diamond). We'll keep you all informed of our upcoming backcountry hiking and hope to post several entries as well as photos of the trip itself.

Lava Flow Moves Towards Subdivision

2008-01-12T23:39:00.000-05:00

Below are news excerpts from Big Island lava flow updates.

Summary: Kilauea's lava flow on the Big Island of Hawaii changed direction in the fall of 2007, shifting towards the south east of its previous track. Instead of the southerly flow from the Pu'u O'o vent with some surface flows and a dominant ocean entry, the lava flow shifted east of Pu'u O'o in the direction of the nearly abandoned Royal Gardens Subdivision. The lava was in a virtual stalemate until 1/11/08 when it began to flow in a "threatening" manner directly towards that subdivision. When a long, relatively fast lava flow headed toward Royal Gardens subdivision on Jan 11th, a radio announcement by Hawaii County Civil Defense called it a "threat."

1/12/08 Update
A lava flow on the Big Island has stalled about one-half mile from a mostly abandoned subdivision. But it still threatens one remaining resident. The lava pouring from Kilauea Volcano was expected to reach the Royal Gardens subdivision late Thursday night or early yesterday. According to the U.S. Geological Survey's Hawaiian Volcano Observatory the flow now threatens only the upper part of the subdivision, which has one permanent resident. The observatory's Web site says Hawaii County Civil Defense is dealing with the threat. Over the years, lava from the eruption that began in 1983 has inundated the subdivision, which originally had more than 1,800 lots. [source - KUA.net]

1/11/08 Update
Lava broke out of a holding pattern on Kilauea's East Rift and headed downslope yesterday toward the only two inhabited houses anywhere around, three miles to the southeast in Royal Gardens.

The only two people living in the remnants of the subdivision overrun by lava many times before, two bachelors, shrugged it off.

"I'll get worried when I feel the heat," said bed-and-breakfast owner Jack Thompson.
Dean Schneider, who lives a half-mile away in the sprawling, mostly abandoned subdivision, declined an offer of help from a Hawaii County Fire Department helicopter.
Geologist Tim Orr said the lava could follow a natural contour and miss both houses.

Read the full Honolulu Bulletin article here.