See Hot, Molten Lava
For more than 20 straight years, hot, molten lava has been continually pouring out of Kilauea Volcano from the Pu'u Oo Vent located near the summit, often oozing directly into the sea via lava tubes or surface flows on the Puna side of the Big Island. Visitors may hike near the flows to witness incredible displays of fiery lava that spatters, flows and fountains over the newly formed lava bench, pouring into the crashing surf below. Conditions change daily. Check with park rangers for the latest updates.
Watch the Ironman World Championships
The mother of all triathlons, the Ironman World Championships comes to Kona, Hawaii, every October. Spanning the coastline from Kailua-Kona to Hawi in the north, the grueling, endurance event tests the mettle of every participant during the 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride and 26.2-mile run. Pick a spot at the finish line by the Kailua-Kona pier to watch the world's top athletes cross the line to the roar of the crowd.
View Green Sea Turtles
Green sea turtles frequent shorelines reefs and beaches throughout the islands, especially in shallow waters where coral reefs are present. In South Kona, Ke'ei Beach can be reached by hiking or driving down a dirt road that hugs the shoreline just south of Kealakekua Bay in Napo'opo'o. Dozens of turtles frequent the calm waters that offer plentiful algae and food sources for these protected marine animals. It is illegal to touch or harass green turtles, so enjoy them from a distance while floating in the water.
Explore Ancient Petroglyphs
Because of its prolific lava fields, the Big Island plays host to countless petroglyphs, rock art carved by ancient Hawaiians depicting images of families, fishermen, warriors and other images of life in early Hawaii. On the Hilo side, images depicting a total eclipse can be seen near the volcano's eruption site by the sea, while the flat lava fields on the Kohala Coast provide the opportune hiking and viewing destination for a petroglyph safari.
Enjoy the Undersea World
Rent a kayak and ply through the waters of Kailua-Kona, where colorful, tropical fish and marine life abound. Or simply book a snorkel cruise. Kona's most popular snorkel cruise, the Fair Wind leaves twice daily from Keauhou Bay on route to nearby Kealakekua Bay to the south. Providing all the needed snorkel gear, the Fair Wind cruise also offers a barbecue lunch on deck.
78-7130 Kaleiopapa St.
Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
(808) 322-2788
fair-wind.com
