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HAMAKUA COAST. This state park, hidden away in a dense forested area just northwest of Hilo, features two of the Big Island's most majestic scenes: Kahuna Falls and 'Akaka Falls. The former, easily the smaller of the two, cascades over a tree-lined cliff into the canopy below. Meanwhile, the latter tumbles more than 440 feet into a lush gorge, creating a spectacular scene that's been photographed countless times over the years. The trail leading to the waterfalls is moderately strenuous, and the entire walk takes less than an hour.
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KOHALA COAST. Historically, Kawaihae Harbor is significant because from here King Kamehameha the Great and his followers set out to conquer other civilizations on the archipelago. Years later, ships dropped anchor with the first horses and cattle to set foot on the Big Island. In more recent times, the bay served as the setting for portions of Kevin Costner's film, "Waterworld." Visitors may take in a stunning view of the bay from the Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site, a structure built in the late 18th century to honor the god of war, Kuka'ilimoku. Towering Mauna Kea is visible from the bay on a clear day.
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LAUPAHOEHOE. Easily offering one of the best vistas on the island, this leaf-like peninsula extends far into the Pacific. In the mid-'40s, tragedy struck the village located here when a tsunami swept across the peninsula and claimed the lives of 24 people. A memorial in the park remembers that dreadful incident. Today, Laupahoehoe Point is a terrific place to spend the afternoon, whether your aim is to explore surrounding waterfalls or do some fishing. (Have care: the undertow can be deadly during winter months.) Camping is permitted at the park, and facilities include a pavilion area, restrooms, showers, and camping sites with drinking water and electrical outlets.
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MAUNA KEA STATE RECREATION AREA. From the ocean floor to Mauna Kea's 13,000-plus-foot summit, this majestic mountain is the world's tallest. Its elevation, combined with its relative isolation from air pollution, also makes it one of the world's foremost locations for stargazing, a fact not lost on astronomers. Indeed, 11 countries, including Japan, France, and scores of American universities, have set up ultra-modern telescopes to peer into the vastness of space. Be sure to stop by the Onizuka Visitor Center, which offers lecture series and nighttime stargazing programs. Dress warmly – at 9500 feet, temperatures tend to drop quickly at sundown, no matter what time of year it is. Most car rental companies prohibit customers from taking cars – even 4X4s – to the summit, so it's best to make alternate arrangements if that's your intention. And make sure to take a full tank of gas.
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KOHALA COAST. Make it to the end of scenic Highway 270 and experience the majesty of the Big Island's dramatic Kohala coastline. High above waves that crash onto jagged rocks are several lookout areas that offer sweeping vistas of verdant cliffs and sliver-like waterfalls cascading over them. Folks wanting a touch of adventure can make the strenuous hike down to the black-sand beach at the base of the cliffs. Have care, though: the waters are not good for swimming, and no lifeguards are on duty.
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HILO. Just a short drive outside of downtown Hilo, the Wailuku River penetrates dense tropical undergrowth and cascades more than 80 feet into a picturesque gorge. The emerald green pool at the base of the falls used to be a popular swimming hole, especially with daredevils who wanted to explore the cave behind the falls; however, that's now against the law. Instead, visitors must make their way down the slick, stone walkway to the overlook, from which they have a terrific vantage point of this magnificent scene.
Don't have time to cover a lot of ground but still want to see the big picture? Our Great Views picks give you details on where to get a bird's-eye view or hidden glimpse of the most beautiful and most popular places in the area.
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