Things to do in Kukuihaele

This resort beach on the Big Island’s northwest coast is a hot spot for swimmers and snorkelers and considered by many as one of Hawaii’s best beaches. The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel was opened in 1965. At a cost of U.S. $15 million, it was the most expensive ever built at the time. Decades later the beach and the hotel remain a popular destination.

Hapuna Beach is one of the few white-sand beaches on the Big Island’s west coast. The state park covers 61.8 acres (25 hectares) of the island and is a great destination to hike, swim and snorkel. The park is also home to the popular Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel, sister hotel to the famous Mauna Kea Beach Hotel.

Climb to Waipi'o Valley Lookout to get a whole new perspective on the natural spectacle of Waipi'o Valley below. This picturesque area is known locally as “The Valley of the Kings” and is celebrated for its important role in Haiwaiian royal history. However, the exquisite tropical landscape itself is every bit as captivating as the stories that surround it and this lookout point gives you a chance to see it as its best.

The drive along Hawaii’s Akoni Pule Highway is one of the most scenic routes in the state. On one side the volcanic mountain of Mauna Loa rises steeply above you, while on the other you can gaze across the Pacific Ocean. Continue to the end of the highway to find yourself at one of Hawaii’s most dramatic vistas, the Pololū Valley Overlook.

Find out where Hawai’ian ranching history was made at the Parker Ranch in Waimea. Explore this historic ranch on an informative tour and learn about the Parker legacy and Hawai’i’s first cowboys. Discover the Parker estate and see the family’s collection of fascinating artifacts and artworks from a bygone era.