cruise
Kona, Hawaii
The Hawaiian archipelago’ s biggest island, Hawaii, known simply as the‘ Big Island’, is also the youngest in geological terms. It’ s home to four active volcanoes, with Kilauea still erupting regularly. Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to learn more and walk across the otherworldly landscape created by cooled black lava.
The region’ s volcanic soil provides the perfect environment for growing Kona coffee beans, known for their compelling flavour profile. Many coffee farms, which offer tours and coffee tastings, are located on the western slopes of Mauna Loa and Hualalai volcanoes. For a kid-friendly alternative, check out the cacao farms near Kona— a few offer tours and chocolate tastings as well.
Coffee aside, Kealakekua Bay, located just 30 minutes’ drive south of Kona, offers crystalline waters and spectacular snorkelling opportunities. The vibrant reef is home to a wide array of marine life including green sea turtles and schools of colourful reef fish. The Bay is also known as the site where infamous explorer Captain Cook died at the hands of the Native Hawaiians in 1779.
For more of a glimpse into Hawaiian history and culture, head to Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park. This wonderful open-air park showcases ancient royal grounds, fishponds and heiau built of lava rock. In ancient times, the site was also a place of refuge, where wrongdoers could go to seek absolution.
Clockwise from top left: Wooden carvings of Hawaiian gods at Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park on the Big Island; a snorkelling excursion in the shallow waters of the Bora Bora lagoon; overwater suites at Four Seasons Bora Bora; The Thermal Suite on board the Norwegian Spirit Previous pages: Queen’ s Bath in Kauai, Hawaii images: XXXXXXX; XXXXXXX
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