Aloha. Since this escorted vacation affords you “hang loose” time, I’ve prepared some suggestions for you if sitting on the glorious beaches, inhaling the fresh air, and watching the ocean’s lovely changing colors of green and blue, and experiencing the positively glorious sunsets aren’t enough. What can you do for free on the Big Island? The Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden is located in a valley bordering the ocean and is without question, one of the most beautiful places in Hawaii. The Garden is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily. The last admission to the Garden is at 4:00 p.m. As a visitor you will receive a trail map to assist you in their self guided tour and the free loan of an umbrella to protect you from the frequent rains which keep the Garden so lush – so thoughtful. As you wander the trails throughout the Garden, you pass through many different environments, including coconut groves, mango and monekeypod trees, palm jungles and a giant fern tree forest. Over 2,000 different species of plants grace the Garden-you’ll think you’re in Paradise! 
A Kinkajou! - Who Knew!
You can visit Mauna Kea, where above the clouds, at 9,000 feet, the Visitors Information Station offers displays about the mountain’s world-class astronomical observatories; and every evening of the year its volunteer astronomy buffs roll out telescopes for an outstanding—and free—stargazing program. A slice of heaven awaits your eyes as you experience the amazing skies for which Mauna Kea is famous.
How about a trip to the Kona Historical Society? Step back in time to an authentic living history experience where historical sites present you with a vivid and unforgettable story of Hawai’i’s past. Experience the 1880’s in the H.N. Greenwell Store Museum where the shopkeeper will help you gather your supplies for your 
trip up Kona mauka. The mingled aromas of coffee beans and oranges blend together again, just as they did over 100 years ago. Stroll through the award-winning Kona Coffee Living History Farm that tells the story of Kona’s coffee pioneers during the years 1926-1945. It is America’s only living history coffee farm where you may “talk story” with costumed historians and discover the history behind Kona’s gourmet crop. You won’t leave this place without feeling you have experienced a rare glimpse into Hawaii’s colorful past.
Hamakua Macadamia Nut Company also offers a self-guided tour where you’ll observe the processing of 100% Hawaiian macadamia nuts and even get samples in seven different flavors! Located in historic Kawaihae near the Puukohola Heiau and open everyday from 9am – 5 pm! 888-643-6688. The variety of macadamia nut brittles are loaded with macadamias and flow like lava across the marble cooling tables – delish!!
Now, if you are willing to pay, I can recommend the Big Island’s only boat designed for viewing marine life above and below the surface. The Spirit of Kona offers scenic coastal cruises with an emphasis on encounters with marine mammals. This boat features two large glass bottom viewing wells and has two decks that both offer 360 degree topside viewing. The underwater viewing ports allow guests to view dolphins, manta rays, turtles, and a variety of tropical fish in their natural environment. All tours are two hours to two hours and 15 minutes in length and are incredible!
For those evenings when you don’t have dinner plans you may consider the Evening on the Reef Sunset Dinner Cruise Adults $98.00 Children (ages 8-11) $75
Departure time from the Kailua-Kona pier varies with the seasonal sunset times. A full dinner buffet, soft drinks, water, and a complimentary Mai Tai greeting for guests over 21 are included in the tour price. Beer, wine, cocktails, and souvenirs are available for purchase. The captain and crew enlighten guests about the marine life encountered during the cruise. After sunset the downward lights mounted in the hull of the Spirit of Kona light up the reef for rare views of nocturnal sea life, which often includes the famous manta rays of the Kona coast. Live local entertainment is also featured. The Evening on the Reef Dinner Cruise is held Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evening. Minimum age for the Evening on the Reef is 8 years old.
Want to see whales up close and personal? Humpback whales are in Hawaii waters in large numbers from December to April every year. Experience the thrill of looking over the edge of the boat and having one of these gentle giants swim directly underneath you. During peak season, there is a selection of whale watching tours and other cruises. Worried if you’ll actually see a whale? Don’t – it’s GUARANTEED! There are SO MANY whales during peak season that locals refer to the ocean as “whale soup.”
How close will you get to the whales? That depends on the whales. By law, the boats must stop 100 yards away from a whale. They are incredibly curious animals though, and they OFTEN approach much closer than that. Sometimes they’ll mug the boat and swim directly under it … you may even get the rare treat of smelling whale breath! There is absolutely nothing like the sound of a spouting whale! It is truly something you will not forget …something like the puff of a steam engine locomotive.
Hanging loose in Hawaii is like nothing you will ever experience – anywhere – and whether you opt for the one, two or three island adventure, you are guaranteed a magical time in a true tropical paradise. Sign up now and look forward to something besides snow next winter.
Hawaii: One, Two or Three Island Adventure (click here for itinerary)
Choice of departures: November 8, 2010, January 10, 2011, February 7, 2011
- Guaranteed departure (plan in confidence!)
- Escorted vacation (0% fuss, 100% vacation!)
- Tour for active adults (share a great experience!)
- Includes home pickup and return (for clients in Marion and adjacent counties)
Eadie
– Interlude blog team
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Tags: guaranteed departure, Hawaii, Maui, Oahu
