It’s nearly 80 degrees in Kona on Hawaii’s Big Island today. If you’re bracing for the “seasonably chilly weather that will grip the eastern third of the U. S. tomorrow,” maybe it’s time to get back to that vacation planning. Thinking about the Islands? Our Hawaii City Host wraps up her advice with some Big Island adventures.

You may already be familiar with the Big Island’s famous active Kilauea volcano in Hawaii’s Volcanoes National Park. You may not be as familiar with the Volcano Winery, a great side trip that allows you to experience unique wines created from tropical fruits and macadamia nuts.

In Kona, stop in at the Ocean Rider Seahorse Ranch to experience a one-on-one encounter with a seahorse. It’s a rare opportunity to tour this three-acre farm which raises more than 15 different species of seahorses.

In Hilo, check out Mauna Kea Observatories. The summit of Mauna Kea in Hawaii houses the world’s largest observatory for optical, infrared, and submillimeter astronomy. Explore the Visitor Information Station at 9,000 ft or travel up to the summit at 14,000 ft. From the visitor center, you can even view the stars at night through portable telescopes. It can be quite an adventure, so be sure to call or visit the website to be fully prepared.

We’re happy to have visitors interested in learning more about Hawaii and our culture. So, come stay in our Hawaiian vacation rental homes and experience life as a local. Mahalo.