Hawaii Island Specials, Tours, Culture, and More!Take a road trip on the biggest of the Hawaiian Islands. This is a place of stark contrasts – from the crystal blue waters and white sands of the Kona Coast, to the rugged volcanic coastlines of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, to the lush botanical gardens and waterfalls of the Hamakua Coast. While the chance to witness an active volcano is a must for anyone, there’s so much more to see on an island just made for exploration. Get inspired at #Let Hawaii Happen.History and CultureThe Lyman Museum and Mission HouseBuilt in 1839, the Lyman Museum and Mission House is the oldest wood frame building on the Island of Hawaii and is where you’ll find the story of Hawaii, its islands and people. View natural history exhibits on volcanoes, learn about the “Habitats of Hawaii” including full-size models and see one of the top mineral and gem collections in the U.S. 

Open: 10:00am to 4:30pm; Admission: Adults $10.00, Senior’s $8.00, Children $3.00, Family $21.00 The Pacific Tsunami MuseumHilo was assaulted by a tsunami in 1946 which prompted the development of the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in 1949. The Pacific Tsunami Museum was founded in 1989 and is dedicated to learning from these devastating natural events and teaching the importance of disaster preparedness and response.

Open: Tuesday – Saturday, 10:00am to 4:00pm; Admission: Adults $8.00, Senior’s $7.00, Children (6-17) $4.00, Toddlers (5 and under) Free Natural Wonders and WildlifeHawaii Volcanoes National ParkA visit to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a must when visiting Hawaii Island. Home to one of the most active volcanoes on earth, Kilauea, this volcano has been erupting continuously since 1983. There are over 150 miles of hiking trails through volcanic craters and rainforests, a walk-in lava tube called Thurston lava tube, the Thomas A. Jaggar museum and you can drive around the crater or arrange a walking tour.

Open: The Park is open 24 hours. The visitor center, museum and art center have varying times. Admission: $15.00 per vehicle or $8.00 per person Kona CoastOff the Kona Coast is one of the best places to dive or snorkel with the manta rays. These gentle giants, some with a wingspan of up to 20 feet, do not have stingers like stingrays. They will often glide past swimmers as they gather up plankton. The best times to go is at night where safe lights are used to light up the plankton and provide a unique view of these amazing creatures.

Check-in Time: Between 5:15pm and 7pm depending on the time of year; Pricing for the Night Snorkel: $56.00 pp including children ; Pricing for the Night Dive: $81.00 pp including children. Book in advance through Blue Sky Tours.Family FunThe Kahua RanchLocated on the western slope of the Kohala Mountains, 3000 feet above sea level is the Kahua Ranch. Tour this working farm on an ATV or horseback and see how the paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) take care of their cattle, sheep, horses and care for their beloved land.

Open: Times vary for different activities Admission: Prices vary for different activities The Liliuokalani GardenDedicated in 1917, the Liliuokalani Gardens are an authentic Japanese garden located on Hilo’s Banyan Drive. Named after Hawaii’s last reigning monarch, Queen Liliuokalani, this 30-acre beautifully landscaped park features Japanese stone lanterns, rock gardens, pagodas, fishponds and a teahouse. This is a great place for your family to have fun and spend time together.HotelsMauna Lani Bay Hotel & BungalowsYou’ll find exotic tropical gardens, a white-sand beach sophisticated luxury and first-class amenities at the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows. With beach cabanas, a dynamic fitness club and snorkeling equipment, this inviting resort is perfect for honeymooners, family and golf enthusiasts.

5 Nights From $854 per person – Garden View 5th Night Free with Breakfast – 5 Day Alamo Intermediate Sport Utility VehicleSheraton Kona Resort and Spa at Keauhou BayThis 22-acre oceanfront resort offers island style dining, a healing spa, shopping, wedding gardens and chapel, complimentary cultural activities and an ultimate pool with a 200-foot lava tube water slide. Whether looking for a family retreat or a romantic getaway this resort has something for everyone.

5 Nights From $632 per person – Experience Aloha Ocean View – 5 Day Alamo Intermediate Sport Utility VehicleCastle Kona Bali KaiLocated just off the beach, this condominium offers comfortable accommodations on a beautifully landscaped property with amazing views of the Kona sunsets.

5 Nights From $1835 total for four – 2 Bedroom Oceanfront Special – 5 Day Alamo Intermediate Sport Utility VehicleWaikoloa Beach Marriott Resort and SpaSet on 15 acres along the Kohala Coast fronting Anaeehoomalu Bay, the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort and Spa offers spacious newly renovated rooms. Perfect for honeymooners, family and golf enthusiasts.

5 Nights From $932 per person – Pool View Leisure Rate – 5 Day Alamo Intermediate Sport Utility VehicleAston Kona by the SeaConveniently located near numerous dining and shopping venues on the sunny Kona Coast, Aston Kona by the Sea is a family friendly resort with spacious, comfortable suites. The manicured grounds have a fresh water pool, jet spa and a sandy sunning area.

5 Nights From $1730 total for four – 2 Bedroom Ocean View Suite – 5 Day Alamo Intermediate Sport Utility Vehicle

Festivals and Events- Moku O Keawe International Hula Festival – November 11-14
- 45th Annual Kona Coffee Cultural Festival – November 6-15 - 9th Annual Paradise Studio Artist Tour – December 5-6 - 11th Annual Jingle Bell Beach Run – December 20 - 18th Annual Wailea Village Mochi Pounding – December 27