The Big Island

Larger than all the other islands combined, "The Big Island" is a miniature continent with stunning beaches, dramatic cliffs, volcanic parks, exotic rivers, vast plains and even cactus studded deserts. The island is dominated by the twin peaks of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, both over 13,000 feet high and divided by ski slopes. Actually, Mauna Kea is only the top of a submerged mountain. Yet at 32,000 feet from sea floor to sky, it could be called the tallest mountain in the world, dwarfing Mount Everest by several thousand feet. "The Big Island" is the youngest in Hawaii, a mere baby at one million years old and still growing with constant eruptions and lava flows. It is one of the only places on Earth where you can still see an active volcano. Along the island's eastern edge, the desolate moonscape of Volcanoes National Park is home to Kilauea, a fiery volcano that has been periodically erupting over the last decade. Visit the charming port town of Hilo, the flower capital of the world, lined with black and white sand beaches. The Kona Coast, world famous for coffee plantations, offers stunning views of the ocean from its powdery beaches and sharp cliffs.