The Big Island: Things To Do

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters Helicopter tours like “The Big Island Spectacular” aren’t cheap, but there really is no other way to get a bird’s eye view of otherwise inaccessible areas of sea cliff coastline, lush green valleys, and boiling volcanic lava pits. 808-961-5600; www.bluehawaiian.com
culture | tour | smart splurge

Gathering of The Kings This musical dinner show is like a Broadway-produced luau. Enjoy dramatic tales about Hawaiian legends and the ancient Polynesians who settled the Pacific, while you feast on cuisine from Tahiti, New Zealand, and Hawaii. Gathering of The Kings; 808-329-8111; www.gatheringofthekings.com
culture | new | live entertainment | food | show

Imiloa Center This impressive astronomy center connects the dots between the ancient Hawaiian art of navigating by the stars and the dozen world-class telescopes that reside on the summit of Mauna Kea. The café and gift shop are worth a peek too. 600 Imiloa Pl.; 808-969-7655; www.imiloahawaii.org
family | culture | food | planetarium

Mauna Lani Spa Big Island has some of the best spas in the state and Mauna Lani is one of its finest. Unwind in the black lava rock sauna, meditation garden and watsu pool. Kohala; 68-1365 Pauoa Rd.; 808-881-7922; www.maunalani.com
spas

Mountain Thunder Coffee Estates The island is famous for its world renowned Kona Coffee, but this certified organic grower is raising the bar with award-winning beans. Tour the estate, now open to the public. Mile Marker 113, off Hwy. 180; 888-414-5662; www.mountainthunder.com
tour | shopping

Parker Ranch Historic Home Tour Hear the colorful history of the largest privately owned ranch in the U.S., beginning with the first Parker from Massachusetts who married a granddaughter of King Kemehameha, to the last heir – a Broadway actor who collected French Impressionist paintings. Parker Ranch, 67-1435 Mamalahoa Hwy.; 808-885-5430; www.parkerranch.com
culture | tour

The Hapuna Golf Course Big Island is also known for having some of the top greens in the state, including the Arnold Palmer and Ed Seay-designed Hapuna Golf Course, with its sweeping panoramic views 700 feet above sea level. 62-100 Kaunaoa Dr.; 808-880-3000; www.princeresortshawaii.com/hapuna-golf.php
golf | sport