Visitors are never short of activities in Keauhou. Just south of the Historic Kailua Village, the Keauhou area has become one of Hawaii's most frequented destinations. The waters are perfect for snorkeling, scuba diving and kayaking. Enjoy a combination of golf courses, spas and fine resort restaurants on land. Spot manta rays at night as they meander near the shores to feed on microscopic plankton, and you may even see napping honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles) in the shallow tide pools as well.

The Royal Footsteps Along the Kona Coast Byway covers 700 years of history. The seven-mile stretch of road takes you through the centuries of Hawaii’s Alii, or the ruling class. You will be led past four of Kona's seven “Royal Centers,” which were the sacred locations chosen due to an abundance of natural resources and recreational value. These centers were reserved for the kings and queens of Hawaii. Count among them Hulihee Palace (one of three palaces in the United States), the royal surfing grounds of Kahaluu, Hawaii’s oldest Christian church and several heiau, or sites of sacred Hawaiian temples.

You have the unique opportunity to watch one of nature's most powerful, beautiful processes as the earth unfurls to release its magma from the volcanoes. As one of the most active volcanoes on the planet, Kīlauea volcano is consistently one of Big Island's biggest attractions. Its reputation precedes it as a sacred place for Native Hawaiians as well. Marvel at the active Mauna Loa, learn about volcanology at the Jaggar Museum, take a selfie at the viewpoint overlooking the Halema'uma'u Crater. The long, underground cave formed by ancient flowing lava called the Thurston Lava Tube (Nāhuku) is another must-see.