Big Island Vacation Guide 2008 - (Page 29) bubbling appearance of boiling water. Stay dry. The Wailuku River is as scenic as it gets but it’s not safe for swimming. Upriver, the five-forked Pe‘epe‘e Falls is a quiet place to sit and enjoy the view. Or go on a guided tour through orchards of banana and lychee to witness Wailuku River’s hidden waterfalls. Stop by the ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center of Hawai‘i for a unique Hawaiian voyage through space. Located on a nine-acre campus above the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo, the center explores the connections between Hawaiian cultural traditions and the science of astronomy. ‘Imiloa features interactive exhibits, planetarium shows, group tours, a gift shop, café and plenty of events throughout the year. For many, Hilo serves as the jumping off point for a visit to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. But as you can see, there’s a lot going on in and around Hilo town and you may want to spend a few days exploring. To learn more about Downtown Hilo, visit www.downtownhilo.com. ¯¯ HAMAKUA COAST Plan to spend a full day exploring the 40 miles from Hilo to Waipi‘o Valley up the Ha ¯kua Coast. There are so many inter¯ma esting and beautiful spots that you’ll say, “Let’s stop here” over and over. Waterfalls are spellbinding and the Ha ¯kua Coast ¯ma Hawaiian Bank Building downtown. The unique museum uses photographs, videos and displays to explain this devastating natural phenomenon that has sadly twice visited the Hilo coast in modern times. Hilo has several parks among its many attractions including the pristine 30-acre Japanese-style Lili‘uokalani Gardens, named for Hawai‘i’s last Queen; Hilo Bay’s Moku Ola (Coconut Island) accessed from the Queen’s garden by a footbridge; Wailoa River State Park; and, Onekahakaha, Kealoha and Leleiwi Beach Parks. Just a few miles south of town find the 20-acre Nani Mau Gardens, a collection of beautiful gardens connected by meandering paths. Travel inland from Hilo Bay up Waianuenue Ave nue to Wailuku River ¯ State Park for visits to Rainbow Falls, Boiling Pots and Pe‘epe‘e Falls. Go in the morning and chances are an awesome rainbow created by the falls’ swirling mist will reward you. The “Boiling Pots” are an interesting riverbed disturbance with the Travel is more than just A to B. Travel should refresh your spirit. Hilton Waikoloa Village® is set on 62 spectacular acres surrounded by 36 holes of championship golf along the sunny Kohala Coast. Glide through the resort on Swiss-made trams or meander along tranquil waterways in mahogany boats. Snorkel or kayak in a private, ocean-fed lagoon teeming with tropical fish. Enjoy an interactive experience with dolphins. Renew body and spirit at the Kohala Sports Club & Spa. Visit HiltonWaikoloaVillage.com or call 1-800-HILTONS. 69-425 Waikoloa Beach Drive, Waikoloa, Hawaii 96738 808.886.1234 HiltonWaikoloaVillage.com 800-648-2441 29 http://www.downtownhilo.com http://HiltonWaikoloaVillage.com http://HiltonWaikoloaVillage.com http://HiltonWaikoloaVillage.com
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