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To the Hawaiians the land is sacred; it is called the aina. Before building any new dwelling in the islands, the land should first be blessed by a kahuna or priest. A tradition that has existed for hundreds of years, this is still practiced for the tallest skyscraper as well as the smallest coffee shack. It is best not to mess with the aina.

Since the Big Island has 11 of the 13 defined microclimates, you would do well to discover it a little at a time. Take a couple days to drive around the island (perhaps spending the night at a quaint little B&B), instead of trying to squeeze it all into one day. Remember, you're on Hawaiian time now, so there's no need to hurry.

You can start by heading on a southern (counterclockwise) course around the island. First stop may be the National Historic Park, Puuhonua O Honaunau (place of refuge), where the kapu (law) breakers of old sought to be absolved of their death sentences (the single punishment for all crimes).

Farther along is South Point; its claim to fame is being the southernmost tip of the U.S. Then perhaps you'll want to stop in the charming community of Naalehu before continuing on to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where the visitor center highlights the history of one of the world's few "visitor-friendly" active volcanoes. Where else in the world might you view a molten lava field trekking relentlessly onward in its path to the sea?

Proceeding on from the volcano, you come to Hilo, the closest thing the Big Island has to a city. You can visit a rain forest zoo or snorkel at Kapoho tide pools. How about a tour of the Macadamia Nut Factory or a stroll along the Hilo Bay waterfront?

Heading north from Hilo on Highway 19, you are now halfway around the island. As you make your way along the Hamakua Coast, take the left at Highway 220. A short drive plus a half-mile hike will let you witness, up close, breathtaking Akaka Falls.

Continue north on Highway 19 to the turnoff for Honokaa/Waipio. About 10 miles down, Highway 240 brings you to the Waipio Valley Lookout. Its sheer cliffs and awe-inspiring beauty make it hard to believe that places like this exist on Earth. Explore the valley floor by horseback, four-wheel drive, or mule-drawn wagon.

Before returning to Kailua-Kona, consider a visit to the Kohala resorts, home to some of the most extensive stretches of white sand beach the Big Island has to offer. If you're looking for fine dining or premier golf courses, the "gold coast" of Kohala is the place to go.

"On the Land" will serve as your guide for almost any land activity on the Big Island. Guided tours, luaus, and stargazing adventures are just a few of the options. Regardless of your interests, the folks at the Activity Connection can book them for you at attractive discounts with no timeshare strings attached and no hassles.

See detailed information Hawaii land activities. Click Here