EXCURSIONES EN TIERRA

Discover Kona’s beaches and shopping on a narrated hop-on, hop-off tour. Step aboard and set out on an unforgettable journey along the scenic Kona Coast, the historic playground and birthplace of Hawaiian kings. This seven-mile beach and shopping adventure offers a seamless blend of history, culture and natural beauty, providing the perfect way to explore this iconic destination at your own pace. Relax on golden sands, snorkel in crystal clear waters, and browse local markets. Your tour begins with a live narration by an expert guide, bringing the stories of ancient Hawaii to life as you follow the Ali’i Trail, once walked by the kings of the islands. Along the way, enjoy the freedom to hop on and off the tour bus at seven incredible stops, each showcasing Kona's stunning landscapes, and a diverse array of shopping experiences, from local markets to boutique treasures. Discounts are offered from various vendors when you show your wristband.

Discover the lasting influence of King Kamehameha by exploring sites that were of great importance when he ruled Hawaii. Kamehameha is revered for uniting the Hawaiian Islands into one kingdom in 1810. About a decade earlier, the volcano Hualalai erupted, leaving hardened lava in its wake. While walking atop this rugged landscape, you will see petroglyphs and ingenious fishponds that the early Hawaiians created. Not far off, you will find a lava-rock temple built in the 18th century to fulfill a prophecy that Kamehameha would unite the islands. It is known as House of the Whale for the humpbacks often spotted just offshore. Following a simple lunchbox style meal at a statue of Kamehameha that was erected near his birthplace in Kohala, you will be free to explore Hawi, an artistic community with all sorts of eclectic shops. You will also tour a macadamia factory and sample these iconic Hawaiian-grown nuts.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Follow in the footsteps of Kamehameha, the king that united the Hawaiian Islands.
• Walk across hardened lava from a volcano that erupted in Kamehameha’s time.
• See petroglyphs, ancient fish ponds and an 18th-century temple built with lava rocks.
• Dine under a statue of Kamehameha near his birthplace in Kohala.
• Spend free time in the artistic community of Hawi and tour a macadamia nut factory.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear long pants and closed-toe walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Explore some of the Big Island’s most dramatic landscapes and come away with a deep appreciation of its volcanic formation. After pausing at America’s southernmost bake shop, where you might try a mango malasada treat, you will travel to the Punalu’u Black Sand Beach. The jet-black sand is made of volcanic materials and lava fragments and is quite the sight, especially if you spot a green sea turtle basking on the beach. Symbols of wisdom and good luck, they are the only sea turtles known to sunbathe. The wonders of the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park will be even more extraordinary. The terrain and natural diversity there are so unique that UNESCO deemed the park both a World Biosphere site and a World Heritage site. You will see volcanic craters, the active volcano Kilauea and hot water vapor rising from countless steam vents.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Admire the volcanically formed black sand beach at Punalu’u and perhaps see a green sea turtle.
• Drive through stunning Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• View an active volcano, craters and steam vents releasing hot water vapor into the air.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Tour the slopes of Hualalai Volcano from the mountain to the sea – a rare chance to visit the endangered tropical cloud forests high above Kona. A scenic drive brings you to Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park. Set out with your guide on a short hike to see the ancient heiau – sacred temples – and petroglyphs carved by the native Hawaiians who once lived here. Walk to the sandy shore where ancient Hawaiians stored their stocks of fish in traps and ponds. Hawaiian green sea turtles (Honu), the very rare Hawaiian monk seal, dolphins and whales are sometimes also seen here. Next, leave the hot Kona coast behind and enter the cool cloudy 70-acre Cloud Forest Sanctuary. Walking under a canopy of 30-foot-tall tree ferns, ohia trees and bamboo, learn about the tropical flora, birds and the endangered cloud forest before returning to the port.

OVERVIEW

Settle in for a panoramic drive along the island’s beautiful western coast and stop at attractions that are particularly relevant to Hawaiians. Upon reaching Kealakekua Bay, you will see the statue that marks the spot where early Hawaiians killed British explorer Captain James Cook in 1779 following a dispute. A bit south lies Pu’uhonua, a spiritual site where criminals once sought refuge and absolution from Hawaiian priests. The temple platforms and other structures that you will see were intact in Captain Cook’s time. Continuing on, you will stop for a sandwich or poke bowl at a popular lunch spot and then a cup of Kona coffee at Caffe Florian, another favorite among locals. A behind-the-scenes tour of the Royal Kona Coffee Center will reveal how those special beans are harvested and brewed. The focus will turn to natural attractions at the nearby lava tubes and at Turtle Cove, where sea turtles are abundant.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Drive along the island’s western shore and visit attractions of great cultural significance.
• Stop at a seaside site that was sacred to the early Hawaiians and still is today.
• Enjoy favorite local foods and drinks such as a poke bowl and Kona coffee.
• See natural wonders such as lava tubes and observe sea turtles resting on a beach.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Prepare to board your powered catamaran for a once in a lifetime cruise of Kona’s history. Step aboard and step back in time, when ancient kings ruled the islands to the arrival of Captain Cook in Kealakekua Bay. Witness many points of interest including Hawaiian temples known as Heiau, the Holua slide, battlefields and the birthplace of King Kamehameha to mention a few. Keep your eyes open for our resident marine life that frequent these waters year-round and the humpback whales in the winter (whale season is from December through March). Enjoy a deli-style lunch upon boarding.

Submerge yourself in a magnificent underwater world aboard an Atlantis Submarine. Investigate the reef through your personal viewport and come face-to-face with masses of exotic tropical fish and other marine creatures amidst colorful coral gardens.

Your adventure begins with a short boat ride along the scenic coast to the boarding dock, where you'll transfer to the submarine to begin your undersea adventure. Atlantis operates the world's most technologically advanced passenger submarines, with spacious air-conditioned interiors, large viewports and comfortable seating.

In crystal clear waters, you will descend 100 feet to explore 25 acres of coral gardens and their inhabitants. The reef was formed on lava that flowed into the ocean 18,000 years ago. Inhabited by hundreds of species of tropical fish, coral and other sea life, it’s a popular site to see Hawaii's marine life.

OVERVIEW

Experience the beauty of Hawaii's Kona Coast aboard a spacious double-deck catamaran as you cruise to Red Hill, one of the island's premier snorkeling destinations known for its crystal-clear waters, colorful coral reefs and abundant tropical marine life. After boarding, the crew will provide a comprehensive safety briefing before serving a light continental breakfast as you sail along the scenic coastline. Keep watch for marine life during the cruise, as dolphins are occasionally spotted in the area; however, sightings are not guaranteed. Upon arrival at Red Hill, receive snorkeling instruction and equipment before enjoying ample time exploring the vibrant underwater world or simply relaxing in the water with the provided flotation gear. After your snorkeling adventure, enjoy a freshly prepared BBQ lunch while taking in the coastal scenery during the return cruise to Kailua Pier, with another opportunity to watch for marine life along the way.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Snorkel in crystal-clear Hawaiian waters.
• Enjoy breakfast, BBQ lunch and coastal views.
• Relax with recreational flotation gear, shaded seating areas and onboard amenities.
• Watch for marine life, including possible dolphin sightings during the cruise

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing
• Flotation devices available: swim noodles, recreational life vests, inner tubes and even stand-up paddle boards.
• Complimentary reef safe sunscreen is provided
• Bring a form of payment for optional onboard purchases, including beverages, souvenirs and available equipment rentals.

OVERVIEW

Discover Kona's rich history, stunning scenery and coastal beauty by both land and sea on this memorable island adventure. Travel along the picturesque Kona coastline, passing black lava landscapes, white-sand beaches, coffee farms and charming island communities while your guide shares stories of Hawaii's culture and heritage. Browse local artisan shops at Aliʻi Gardens before visiting the famous Painted Church, celebrated for its colorful hand-painted biblical murals. Continue to Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, the sacred Place of Refuge, where ancient Hawaiians once found sanctuary. Explore this beautifully preserved cultural site featuring historic temples, carved kiʻi, royal fishponds and peaceful oceanfront views. Return to Kailua Pier to board a spacious catamaran for a narrated historical cruise along Kona's spectacular coastline. Enjoy fascinating stories of Hawaiian royalty and legendary landmarks while taking in panoramic ocean views. A deli-style lunch and live Hawaiian-style music enhance the experience, while a premium cash bar is available for purchase. Keep watch for dolphins, sea turtles and other marine life.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Scenic narrated drive through Kona's beautiful coastline and volcanic landscapes.
• Visit Aliʻi Gardens, the Painted Church and Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park.
• Historical catamaran cruise with deli-style lunch, beverages and live Hawaiian music.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Explore Hawaii’s underwater paradise without getting wet. Ride aboard the Marian, a 36-foot glass-bottom boat specially designed to cruise within inches of the reef. Throughout your adventure, an onboard narrator will share fun and interesting facts of the sea, historic points of interest, Hawaiian history, and other fascinating information about the area.

Have your camera ready to capture pictures of the stunning coral reef, colorful tropical fish, and fascinating marine life. Take in the breathtaking vistas of the island's rugged shoreline as the boat cruses along the historic Kona coast. Sometimes spinner dolphins or seasonal humpback whales (December to April) visit the bay near enough to view. The Marian is designed for comfort, with shaded seating as well as an open-air bow to catch some sun. The boat departs directly from the Kailua Pier, allowing you time to enjoy other excursions or a stroll through the village.

Calling all fishermen, experienced or beginners – here's your chance to try your hand in the billfish capital of the world. The calm, year-round deep-sea fishing grounds off the Kona coast are teeming with marlin, ahi tuna, mahi-mahi, wahoo and short nose spearfish, to name just a few. Anglers from all over the globe have broken world records here.

Your tour includes transportation to and from Honokohau Harbor, a fully equipped sport-fishing boat that can accommodate up to six guests, and an experienced and licensed Captain and crew. Experience is not necessary, and even if you don't catch anything, you're sure to reel in some wonderful memories.

North Kohala is home to some of the most spectacular scenery in Hawaii – rushing streams, sparkling waterfalls, abundant tropical foliage and rugged sea cliffs. Immerse yourself in its deep green lushness and explore its rich natural and cultural heritage. A scenic drive to the remote north end of the island is accompanied by informative narration. Passing through a locked gate onto a private nature preserve, you'll then travel off-road for a short adventure to the trailhead.

An interpretive guide leads the way on the mile and a half trail. Along with an abundance of waterfalls, the route will take you across three bridges, along two idyllic streams, and past traditional Hawaiian taro terraces and irrigation flumes. Refresh yourself in a cool mountain stream with cascades tumbling overhead, or simply relax trailside. A picnic lunch is provided.

James Cook is among the most famous and prolific British explorers and cartographers of all time. Sailing thousands of previously uncharted miles around the globe Captain Cook met his tragic end right here on Hawaii Island. Follow in the great explorers footsteps on this unique small group adventure by land and sea. Start by heading south, deep into Kona coffee country. Visit Bay View Farm, a working 24-acre coffee farm nestled on the slopes of Mauna Loa Volcano just above beautiful Kealakekua Bay and known for the best Kona coffee since 1984. Here you’ll see coffee growing on the trees and learn about the various steps and processes in making coffee, all of which happen right here on the farm. You’ll sample 100% Kona Coffee at a gorgeous overlook with stunning views of Kealakekua Bay and the monument to Captain Cook standing on the only sliver of British land in the United States. Before coffee there was kapu, the ancient Hawaiian system of laws. Should a person break a kapu and face almost certain death, they could make their way to place of refuge and be absolved. Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historic Park is one of the those places. Explore this historic 420-acre Park with your National Park Service-trained guide and see temple platforms, fishponds, and remnants of ancient life in Hawaii. Finally, take to the seas on a high-speed Zodiac-style raft. Explore sea caves and lava tubes along the rugged Kona Coast while on the lookout for marine life all around you. Reaching the sheltered and pristine waters of Kealakekua Bay you’ll come face to face with the monument to Captain Cook, along with snorkeling that ranks among the best in Hawaii. Perfect for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. Snorkel, swim, and enjoy a deli lunch onboard before returning to the port.

OVERVIEW

Hear spine-tingling tales of murder and mayhem while walking through the heart of Kailua-Kona, a city with a long history of hauntings and horrors. Not for the squeamish or faint-hearted, this supernatural stroll is sure to raise eyebrows and goosebumps, even in broad daylight. You will learn about the bloodcurdling curse of King Kamehameha’s burial cave, the ghosts of the monarchs that haunt Hulihe’e Palace and the malevolent spirits lurking in the shadows to choke the living. Even non-believers tend to fear the Hawaiian demigods known as kupra, who are evil shape-shifters that can transform themselves into seemingly harmless humans – like your tour guide – before pouncing. You can’t escape the ghosts and goblins as Kailua-Kona was built over blood-soaked battle grounds and sacred sites. But don’t despair, there is hope. Certain Hawaiian tribal tattoos, especially those depicting sea turtles or sharks, are said to offer protection. You do have one, right?

HIGHLIGHTS

• Walk through downtown as the guide regales you with chilling tales of the supernatural.
• Pass by haunted hotels, ancient burial grounds and sites known for paranormal activities.
• Hear about some of the notorious events behind these terrifying tales.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Enjoy a walk-through Kailua-Kona with an emphasis on its rich history and tastings that reflect the locally sourced produce & seafood. Many of the venues for the food offerings will be on coastal Ali’i Drive, so the views will be as spectacular as the foods. You can expect to stop at restaurants that overlook the ocean, visit a farmers market and end the tour with a sweet local treat. The exact tastings will depend on the season and what is freshest, but the seafood will likely feature freshly caught fish such as ahi tuna or perhaps mahi-mahi. Some of the offerings will be thoughtfully paired with local beers or cocktails. To make the experience even more relevant, the guide will elaborate on the history of the venues and on King Kamehameha, who spent the last years of his life in Kailua-Kona after unifying the Hawaiian Islands into a single kingdom in 1812.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Walk through historical Kailua-Kona and stop along the way for tastings of local products.
• Sample local favorites such as fresh seafood and tropical fruits.
• Enjoy Hawaiian beers, wines and cocktails paired with the featured selections.
• Learn about Kailua-Kona’s history and the kings and queens that once lived there.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing and bring sunglasses.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

Gain a deeper understanding of how volcanoes have shaped Hawaii’s dramatic landscape and continue to express their often unpredictable power. After a brief stop at America’s southernmost bake shop, you will behold the beauty of Punalu’u Black Sand Beach. Its jet-black sand is volcanic in origin and extraordinarily photogenic, especially if green sea turtles are basking on the beach. The island’s volcanic soil is ideal for growing coffee as you will discover at Ka’u Coffee Mill. After dining on a bento box lunch, you will travel to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site that contains two of the world’s most active volcanoes – Mauna Loa and Kilauea. While gazing out over this otherworldly terrain from Steaming Bluff, you will feel the hot water vapor as it rises from steam vents in the ground. You will also pause at the Thurston Lava Tube, a cavernous tunnel that was filled with molten lava 500 years ago.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Snap photos of a volcanically formed black-sand beach that sea turtles often frequent.
• Tour Ku’a Coffee Mill and sample a cup of its uniquely flavored coffee.
• Behold the eerie, somewhat hellish landscape of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
• See – and feel – hot water vapor rising out of the ground from vents known as fumaroles.
• Stop at the Thurston Lava Tube, through which a river of hot lava flowed centuries ago.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Zodiac Whale Watching is the best way to see the migrating humpback whales. Depart the tender pier to search out these gentle giants who come to Hawaii to mate and give birth. We are never sure where they are going to surface but the hurricane rafts are fast, getting you to the action quickly. We often see multiple whale pods on each trip. Naturalist guides will tell you about the humpback whale migration pattern and behavior and drop a hydrophone to listen to a whale song! Zodiac rafts accommodate small groups, so everyone gets a front row seat. Soft drinks and snacks are included.

This is a seasonal tour available from January – March.

OVERVIEW

Learn to roast your own coffee hands-on at Kona Joe, the first trellised coffee farm in the world. As an introduction to the world of coffee beans, you will first tour the 20-acre property and discover the benefits of innovatively growing coffee on trellises, much like wine grapes are grown. In essence, trellises allow for more uniform sunlight exposure, which results in more even ripening of the coffee cherry – the fruit that holds the beans inside. You will learn how Kona Joe roasts its coffee and then try your hand at roasting 10 ounces of premium beans. Just tell the guide how you like your coffee – whether lightly roasted, medium or dark for a bold flavor – and follow the guide’s instruction regarding how to control the roaster’s temperature, drum speed and air flow. You will come away with your own bag of coffee and a souvenir mug to enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee compliments of Kona Joe.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy an enlightening tour of Kona Joe, the world’s first trellised coffee farm.
• Gain an understanding of why growing coffee on trellises results in better tasting beans.
• Follow the guide’s instructions and roast some coffee beans just the way you like them.
• Take home your bag of freshly roasted beans and a souvenir mug to enjoy a cup of Kona Joe coffee.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable closed toe walking shoes.

Sail on a sleek catamaran to beautiful Kealakekua Bay and snorkel its sheltered waters, which are teeming with colorful marine life. The bay lies off the western shore and holds the Big Island’s only underwater state park, a marine sanctuary renowned for the clarity of its waters. The cruise will be immensely pleasurable as the 50-foot catamaran offers plenty of room to stretch out in the sun and relax in the shaded but open-air cabin. On the way, you will enjoy a light lunch of turkey with Havarti on Hawaiian rolls, served with pasta salad and chips. Hear about the island’s history, especially while passing the spot where legendary British explorer Captain James Cook was killed in 1779. Still, the underwater wonders are the star attractions, including marine life found nowhere else in Hawaii such as lizardfish and flame angelfish, a flashy species often seen grazing on coral reef algae. Feel free to enjoy the open bar on the return cruise.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cruise to Kealakekua Bay on a 50-foot catamaran with spacious sunny and shaded areas.
• Snorkel the bay’s crystal-clear waters, which are teeming with brightly colored marine life.
• Look for species of fish not found anywhere else in Hawaii.
• Enjoy a picnic style lunch and an open bar onboard.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing with a swimsuit underneath.
• Bring a towel and reef safe sunscreen.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Explore the highly restricted and preserved Kahuku unit of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on this unique island tour! Start with a visit to Bay View Farm, a working 24 acre Kona coffee farm nestled on the slopes of Mauna Loa Volcano just above beautiful Kealakekua Bay and known for the best Kona coffee since 1984. Here you’ll see coffee growing on the trees and learn about the various steps and processes in making coffee, all of which happen right here on the farm. You’ll sample 100% Kona Coffee at a gorgeous overlook with stunning views of Kealakekua Bay and the monument to Captain Cook standing on the only sliver of British land in the United States. Make a brief stop at the famous Painted Church whose interior walls and ceilings are covered in hand painted frescoes and murals dating back to 1899-1904. The adventure continues as you head through the South Kona and Ka’u Districts. Stunning views, alternating between stark lava flows and Hawaiian dry forest are along this route. Stop at Punaluu Bake Shop famous for Hawaii sweetbreads and other delights along with food for purchase. Head out next to Punaluu Black Sand Beach. Lined with swaying coconut palm trees, this is one of the best black sand beaches on the island. Stroll along the beach and look for honu (Green Hawaiian Sea Turtles) feeding just offshore or sun-worshipping on the sand. Your National Park Service trained guide next stops at the 116,000-acre Kahuku Unit of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Explore a section of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park very few have ever seen or visited. Here you will hike an historic trail past cinder cones, lava tree molds, and a hidden meadow with old growth native trees. You’ll walk across the dramatic and surreal landscape of the 1868 lava flow and climb atop Pu’u o Lokuana cinder cone, complete with historic cinder quarry and sweeping views of Ka’u. Finally, settle in for the return to port.

OVERVIEW

Experience the Kona Coast in comfort aboard a spacious 41-foot Super-Raft—a premium Zodiac-style experience. This open-air vessel features powerful twin engines, shaded bench seating with personal storage, an onboard restroom, and plenty of room to relax as you cruise along the dramatic coastline of Hawaii’s Big Island. After assessing the day’s wind and ocean conditions, your captain will select the ideal snorkeling location for exploring the crystal-clear waters. The Big Island is home to the highest percentage of live coral in the Hawaiian Islands, creating a thriving underwater habitat for an incredible variety of marine life. Keep an eye out for brilliantly colored tropical fish, graceful manta rays, Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu), and the colorful reef triggerfish, Hawaii’s state fish. Enjoy a delicious lunch served right onboard the vessel during your excursion, allowing you to relax and take in the stunning coastal views between adventures. With upgraded comfort features, added amenities, and space to unwind, you’ll explore the Kona Coast in style.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Deluxe Zodiac-style experience with upgraded comforts
• Snorkel in clear waters at the day’s best location & look for tropical fish, turtles, manta rays and dolphins
• Snorkel gear and instruction are included.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.
• Be sure to bring a towel.

Your adventure starts by viewing historical points of interest while off shore from the village of Kailua-Kona. While zipping down the coast on these fast and fun Zodiac Hurricanes, you may be able to stop to interact with marine life. There are 17 species of dolphins in Hawaii that may be seen on any given day. You may encounter the Hawaiian Spinner, Pacific Bottlenose or Spotted dolphins. As well as the seasonal Humpback whales that migrate yearly from Alaska (Jan-Apr), you may also find pilot whales, false killer whales and other rare, elusive whales that live here year-round. When you are in the Zodiac, you are just 2 feet above the water line, so you have a great vantage point from which to view the marine life.

Your ultimate destination is Kealakekua Bay marine preserve, site of the Captain Cook monument. Kealakekua Bay is known around the world for its abundance of coral and tropical fish - over 220 varieties of marine life in total. You will spend 1 ½ hours snorkeling the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the bay. All the snorkel gear is provided, including masks (RX if needed), snorkels, fins, and flotation devices. Non-swimmers and first-time snorkelers will be provided with flotation devices and instruction. There is a 3-4 rung ladder that is lowered from the Zodiac and you must be able to get up the ladder and back into the raft on your own. There is no access to land on this tour, the Zodiac is your "island" where you can get in and out of the water as often as you like at the snorkel spot.

While enjoying your tropical snacks and refreshments, you’ll hear all about the history of the bay and the story of Captain Cook. You will get up close to explore the rugged coastline and see natural blowholes, exposed giant lava tubes and your Zodiac will poke its' nose into sea caves. See beautiful colors and striations of the lava up close. Your captain is a naturalist, geologist, historian and some like to think that they are comedians. It is guaranteed that you'll be laughing from the minute you step off the dock into the Zodiac.

Enjoy tastings of two classic Hawaiian products – coffee and chocolate – and see how both are produced to maximize their unique flavors. At Kona Joe Coffee, you will learn about the patented cultivation process that allows the trellised Arabica coffee trees to grow upright like grapevines, which ensures uniform sun exposure. The result is a superior organic coffee bean with an enhanced taste and body, as you will discover by sampling a fresh-brewed cup. You will be treated to another sampling at Kokoleka Lani Farms, an actual working farm where you will view cacao (chocolate) on the tree and see the raw beans utilized in the making of their award-winning chocolate. After touring this biodiverse farm, you will enjoy the best part--a chocolate tasting! In addition to coffee and cacao, learn how farm products are integrated into Kona Natural Soap which is also made here. Afterward, enjoy free time to browse their chocolate selections, Kona coffee and vegan soaps in the gift shop.

HIGHLIGHTS

• See how a patented process for growing coffee produces a uniquely flavored cup of coffee.
• Tour a cacao farm and watch each step of the cacao bean production.
• Sample a selection of coffees and chocolates that are pure Hawaiian..

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Gain an understanding of the Big Island’s history through attractions that highlight the life of the early Hawaiians and the influence of Catholic missionaries. Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park will offer a glimpse into the early culture, as it was a place of refuge for those that had violated the sacred laws known as kapu. There, you will see a temple where criminals could be absolved of their transgressions and safely return to society. To complement the experience, you will visit the 19th-century Painted Church. Its interior features frescoes and murals of biblical scenes that a Belgian priest painted to teach the islanders Catholicism. The missionaries were also instrumental in dismantling the harsh kapu laws. Afterwards, enjoy a short visit to Ali’i Gardens on the Kona coast where you will find local artisans, handcrafted goods, and the authentic spirit of Hawaii all in one place. Experience the heart of the local community as vendors share their passion, craft, and story.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit one Hawaii’s most sacred sites, where criminals could find safe refuge.
• View the biblical murals and frescoes that adorn the Painted Church.
• Visit Ali’i Gardens Marketplace where you will find local artisans and experience the authentic spirit of the Big Island.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.