Big Island Vacation Guide 2009 - (Page 23) “Go in the morning and chances are an awesome rainbow created by the falls’ swirling mist will reward you.” species of rare and exotic plants. The Hamakua Coast was sugarcane ¯¯ country for years. Once a center of the bustling industry, the historic little town of Honomu now caters to visitors on their ¯ way to ‘Akaka Falls State Park. Located about 10 miles north of Hilo, its tiny main street is lined with shops featuring local woodworks, arts and crafts as well as ice cream and baked goods. ‘Akaka Falls is arguably the most famous of the island’s countless waterfalls. The falls are easily accessed by a wellmaintained circular trail through a tropical rain forest. Along the way you’ll pass giant ferns, vibrant heliconia, bamboo groves and fragrant ginger blossoms. ‘Akaka Falls plunges 442 feet in one steady stream from the cliffs above. There’s a monument at Laupahoehoe ¯ Point to commemorate those who lost their lives in the tsunami of 1946 that destroyed the railroad and swept away the original town. The view of the powerful Pacific pounding against the sea cliffs is worth the one-mile side trip. Nearby, there’s another must-see waterfall, the multi-tiered Umauma Falls, part of the World Botanical Gardens. Guided and self-guided tours are available at World Botanical Gardens, located 16 miles north of Hilo. View over 200 acres filled with exotic plant species from around the world. Travel up the road to stretch your legs at Kalopa State Recreation Area. The 100¯¯ acre native rain forest is great for hiking and picnics and also offers camping facilities. There’s a short nature loop through an ‘ohi‘a forest, or you can hike ¯ the longer trails into the natural tropical wilderness. Quaint Honoka‘a is a former sugar town that now sports galleries and shops offering souvenirs, gifts, antiques, arts, crafts and collectibles. Stop here for a quiet stroll and a souvenir of your day. One of the highlights of the Hamakua ¯¯ Coast, and some would say of the island, is Waipi‘o Valley. Formerly a center of ancient Hawaiian political and religious life, and home to thousands, it is now a serene valley with less than 100 residents. Your first glimpse will be from the Waipi‘o Valley Overlook at the end of the main road. The black sand beach at the mouth gives the valley its name, “Curving Water.” It’s 1,000 feet down to the valley floor. There is a road into Waipi‘o Valley accessible by four-wheel drive or you can hike it. It will take about a half hour to walk down. There’s also a shuttle and tour available. The valley itself is a mile across and over five miles deep, ending at Hawai‘i Island’s tallest waterfall, Hi‘ilawe Falls. The falls cascade 1,300 feet to feed the taro farms at the back of the valley. “View over 200 acres filled with exotic plant species from around the world.” . . The Outrigger Kanaloa at Kona offers fully equipped villas in a pristine oceanfront setting. The condominiums of Outrigger Royal Sea Cliff are set atop a lava rock cliff, surrounded by waterfalls and lush gardens. And the Outrigger Fairway Villas, in the exclusive Waikoloa Beach Resort, puts golf and more at their doorstep. Call or visit . Outrigger Kanaloa at Kona 800-648-2441 M69950_7x4.625_OUTR_08BigIsland_P.indd 1 8/28/08 5:20:06 PM 23 http://www.outriggercondos.com http://www.outriggercondos.com
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