Lots of Great Free Activities
The Big Island of Hawaii features a wide variety of places to visit and a great selection of things to do, and fortunately many of the places and things can be enjoyed for FREE. Our "On the House" section features 24 of these and you are encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity they afford to have fun while learning about Hawaii and the Big Island.

More than any other island, the Big Island is steeped in history. The birthplace, resting place and political center of King Kamehameha I, the landing site of the first missionaries, the site of Captain Cook's untimely death, the playground of Kings, are just some of the Island's historic claims.

And with 11 of the world's 13 climactic zones represented on the Island, and an endless variety of flora and fauna, no place on earth is more fascinating to explore. So fill the gas tank ok, we know that's not free!) and head on out. If you're on a tight budget, or even if you're not, you'll enjoy experiencing all the Big Island has to offer for FREE.

Kona Joe Coffee & Chocolate Co South Kona
The Big Island's most unique coffee experience is awaiting you at Kona Joe's. 100% pure Kona coffee is grown on a trellis, using the same techniques as the world's finest vineyards. The world-class new facility and on-site store offer items to satisfy any appetite from chocolates, cookies, brownies and of course a wide variety of Kona Joe coffee choices. A friendly tour guide will greet you with warm aloha and explain the history of the company, coffee farming and various activities. Kona Joe Coffee and Chocolate Company is just 10 minutes South of Kailua Kona. 322-2100.
Map 3, J10.

Holualoa Village - South Kona
Drive up the winding Hualalai Road to the cool, quiet town of Holualoa and you can see a little bit of old Hawaii. Park your car and stroll through the many shops and galleries featuring unique and impressive work from local artisans and craftspeople. Stop by Paul's Place store or the local café for some refreshment and aloha. You'll find most galleries open Tuesday-Saturday. Route 11 south to left on Hualalai Road, left at top on 180. Map 3, F11.

Kona Brewing Company - Kona
Come visit Hawaii's #1 Micro Brewery. We offer free tours and tasting Mon-Fri, 9-5 and tasting Sat, 10-4. Sample Pacific Golden Ale, Fire Rock Pale Ale and Lilikoi Wheat Ale made with Big Island Passion Fruit). Out tasting room manager, Canny Sam, will treat you in the old Hawaiian style. We also carry a wide variety of Kona Wear. Behind Zac's Photo, North Kona Shopping Center. Be sure to ask for Kona Brew when diving out. 334-1133. Map 2, A3.

Mokuaikaua Church - Kona
This is the site of the first Christian church in Hawaii established in 1820. The present structure of lava rock and mortar made from coral, was dedicated in 1837. The serene interior is constructed with the handsome native Hawaiian woods ohia and koa. The steeple is a familiar landmark in picturesque Kailua Village. Inside the church is a model of Thaddeus, the ship that brought the first missionaries to Hawaii. N. Ali'i Dr., Kailua-Kona, Map 2, B3.

Painted Church - South Kona
Formerly known as St. Benedict's Church, Father John Berchamans Veighe painted elaborate scenes from the Bible in the interior of this Gothic-style structure. During his ministry, around 1900, the Belgian Father used these illustrations to explain Christianity to the Hawaiians who could neither read nor write. Route 19 south to Route 11, then right on Route 160, left on Middle Keei Road, right on Painted Church Road. Map 3, M10.

Akaka Falls State Park - Hilo
It wouldn't be a trip to the Big Island of Hawaii without absorbing the splendor of some of the island's waterfalls. 440' high Akaka Falls, main feature of the 65 acre Akaka Falls Park, is at the end of an enchanting but occasionally strenuous ½ mile walk through the rainforest. Also in the park is Kahuna Falls. Picnic tables, drinking water and restrooms are available. Route 19 to Route 220 north of Hilo, 5 miles to park. Map 6, F8.

Akatsuka Orchid Gardens - Hilo
When in Hilo, stop by Hawaii's largest cymbidium orchid farm, and see what mother nature has been up to with a little help from her human friends). You'll see orchids in an array of shapes, sizes and colors on display and for sale. Many plants are already inspected and ready to board the plan or be shipped to the mainland. Open daily, 8:30AM - 5:00PM. Route 11, between mile markers 22 & 23, Glenwood area south of Hilo. Map 5, K11.

Liliuokalani Park and Banyan Dive - Hilo
This lovely Japanese garden park was built over 100 years ago and sits elegantly on the edge of Hilo Bay. Walk along the footpaths, past the lanterns, and over the bridges to Coconut Island and get a different perspective of Hilo. An authentic Japanese Tea house is featured in the garden. The stately Banyan trees adorning and shading Banyan Drive were planted about 50 years ago by visiting celebrities. Route 19 to Banyan Dive in Hilo. Map 5, B11.

Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory - Hilo
Drive through groves of Macadamia nut trees to the factory where you can take a tour and watch skilled workers create their many delicious treats. Remember Lucy and Ethel on the candy factory assembly line?) You can purchase a variety of their creations in the visitor center, and be sure to make time for a stroll through the nature walk. Open daily from 9:00AM - 5:00PM. Route 11 to Macadamia Road, 3 miles south of Hilo. Map 5, I11.

Panaewa Rainforest Zoo - Hilo
Welcome to the only tropical rainforest zoo in the United States. Residing in the lush habitat of the Panaewa Rain Forest are many species of animals, birds, reptiles and endangered Hawaiian birds. The beautiful plants are native to Hawaii and enhance this peaceful park like zoo. Visit our unique gift shop after your journey. Open 9:00AM-4:00PM daily, except Christmas and New Year's. Route 11 to Mamake Street, a few miles south of Hilo. Map 5, I8.

Rainbow Falls - Hilo
Another wonderful waterfall is in the middle of Hilo. Rainbow Falls is a few steps from the parking area. It's a visual treat any time of day, but particularly impressive early in the morning. The falls are part of the Wailuku River State Park which includes several falls and pools, called the Boiling Pots, formed from the river's flow over ancient lava beds. A rough trail follows the river. Route 19 to Route 200 Waianuenue Avenue). Map 5, E6.

Scenic Dive - Hilo
On your way to or from Hilo via the northern route? We suggest a small detour to enjoy this Scenic Drive. This four mile loop brings you through lush surroundings including bamboo trees, heliconia, and babbling streams. Stop at the wooden bridge, and check out the stream rushing through a lava tube. Please drive carefully, and park thoughtfully along the way. Route 19 between mile markers 7 & 8 and 10 & 11. Map 6, F8.

South Point & Green Sand Beach -Ka'u
The southernmost point in the United States is not in Florida, but on the Big Island of Hawaii and if you visit South Point, you can say "I've been there!" The Green Sand beach is about five miles east of South Point, and you can get there with a four-wheel drive vehicle or if you're hale and hearty, by hiking with your own two feet. PLEASE don't take any sand away with you. Route 11 to South Point Road. Map 6, N4.

Volcano Winery - Volcano 967-7479
While visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, don't miss FREE wine tasting at the world's most unique winery. Home of tropical Hawaiian wines such as half grape-half tropical fruit wines called tropical fruit blends and tropical honey wines no grapes! Open 365 days a year from 10:00 until 5:30. Map 5, K7.

Ancient Fish Ponds - Kohala
The owners of Mauna Lani Resort have done a wonderful job restoring and maintaining the ancient Hawaiian fishponds at Kalahuipua'a. Take a leisurely walking tour around the ponds and you can see how the native Hawaiians used aquaculture and worked with nature to feed themselves. Also on the property are interesting trails through the lava fields. Route 19 to Mauna Lani Drive, follow signs to public access parking. Map 1, F9.

King Kamehameha Statue - Kapa'au
Hawaii Five-O fans may remember seeing the King Kamehameha statue in the show's opening. That statue is in Honolulu and it's only a copy of the original which is in the town of Kapa'au. Given that King Kamehameha's birthplace was in Kohala, it's only fitting that the original statue be displayed prominently close to his home. The nearby village of Hawi is a neat little town and well worth a stop. Route 19 north to Route 270. Map 3, E9.

Kohala Mountain Road - Kohala
Ahh…Enjoy the pastoral views and cool breezes of the Kohala Mountains. This drive is a local favorite for sending visiting family and friends. If you're traveling to Hawi or Pololu be sure to take this route either to or from. The road winds through a lush and varying landscape and provides dramatic views of the Kohala coastline. Also watch for cows, horses, sheep and even llamas along the way! Route 250 between 19 & 270. Map 4, F2.

Lapakahi State Historical Park - Kohala
Visiting Lapakahi State Historical Park is like traveling back in time to an ancient fishing village. It's easy to imagine island life 600 years ago as you take a self-guided walking tour through this restored park. Situated on the Kohala coast, you can often see Haleakala on the island of Maui, and seldom hear anything but the wind and the waves. Open daily, 8:00AM - 4:00PM. Route 19 to Route 270, just before mile marker 14. Map 4, C3.

Mauna Kea Visitor Center - Mauna Kea
At the 9500' level on Mauna Kea, the Visitor Center is as far as you can go without a four wheel drive. The center is open on the weekends and Friday afternoon, and features stargazing on Friday and Saturday evenings. A small but interesting museum is housed in the Center with regular showings of an excellent video on the development of the mountaintop observatories. Call 961-2180 for information. Saddle Rd. Rt. 200) to John Burns Way. Map 6, F6.

Petroglyphs at 'Anaeho'omalu - Kohala
Hawaiians call them ki'i pohaku stone images), and the 'Anaeho'omalu area has an impressive example of these ancient petroglyphs for the Big Island visitor to view. Put on your sturdy shoes, and walk along the King's Trail to wondrous fields of these fine examples of ancient Hawaiian art. Be respectful of the area, and no rubbings please. Route 11 to Waikoloa Beach Drive. Stop at Kings' Shops and follow the signs. Map 1, G10.

Pololu Lookout & Kamehameha Rock - Kohala
Rain and wind have eroded away the northeastern part of the island, creating the dramatic Pololu Valley and distant islets. Experienced hikers might venture down the trail to the black sand beach, but take note: it can get knee-high muddy. Between mile markers 25 & 26, watch for Kamehameha Rock on the east side of the road. It was carried out of Pololu Valley by Kamehameha I phew!). End of Route 270. Map 4, F5.

Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site - Kohala
A respected prophet told King Kamehameha I that if he built a large Heiau temple) to his family war god Kukailimoku, he would conquer the islands. The result is an impressive rock structure that was dedicated in 1791 with human sacrifices. It remains standing today after the fulfilling of the prophecy over 200 years ago. An informational building is open daily, 7:30AM-4:00PM. Route 19 to Route 270 in Kawaihae. Map 1, B8.

Waipi'o Valley State Park - Waipi'o
This spectacular rainforest valley to the sea is surrounded by 2000 foot cliffs. Fresh water streams crisscross and waterfalls lace the edges of this wondrous area with a beautiful gray sand beach, taro fields and wild horses. Waipi'o Valley was the seat of the Hawaiian monarch for hundreds of yards. Access to the valley floor is by four-wheel drive vehicle or extremely able bodies. Route 19 to Honoka'a, then 9 miles north on 240. Map 4, J4.

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