Local beaches include a black sand beach that is sheltered by a majestic Pali (cliff) to the north, and an ancient Heiau (temple) to the east. A white sandy beach shaded by coconut palms makes an inviting spot for gathering coral and seashells, surfing, boogie boarding, sun bathing or an afternoon picnic. Each of these beautiful beaches is within minutes' walk from Hale Keawe. Further south of Hale Keawe is the famous Green Sand Beach at South Point (pictured left). Here you see sand which is made from olivine crystals, a by product of volcanic activity. Around the Island are a number of easy accessible black sand beaches.

Visit Honokahau Harbor, the local nude beach, and home of the Queens Baths. The Queens Baths are warm, fresh water tidal pools springing from an old lava flow. Further north is "69 Beach" formally known as Puako. Remotely located, this tiny beach is home to a series of "coral castles", exquisite underwater formations teaming with marine life. Visit the north end of the Island, Ranch Country, for world class horseback riding, or hike one of the seven valleys with their majestic waterfalls, dramatic cliffs and sweeping views.

Perhaps the Big Island is most famous for its active volcano, Kilauea. Check out the latest activity. No trip would be complete without this day excursion to visit Pele. Volcanoes National Park and its Visitor Center are just 90 miles south of Hale Keawe (but don't worry the lava flows the other way). The flowing lava is most vivid at dusk and in the evening hours. The National Park has short and long hikes through lava formations as well as the volcano caldera. Take a look at a live panorama of the current activity at Halema`uma`u Crater, Kilauea Summit, Mauna Loa Crater or the Pu`u `O`o vent, Kilauea Volcano courtesy of the U.S. Geological Survey . Taking a helicopter tour gives you a birds eye view of Volcanoes National Park and surrounding areas. Blue Hawaiian offers discounts on their web site.

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