find the “small” places ON THE BIG ISLAND
Kealakekua Bay on the Big Island has been attracting tourists since 1779, when British Captain James Cook arrived to a welcoming throng—only to die a few weeks later in a skirmish. Although such a dire outcome does not await visitors these days, parking skirmishes are likely for those who visit popular attractions on busy days—at Kealakekua Beach Park, Two-Step snorkeling, and Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Park.
But relative solitude can be had with a quick turn of the wheel. Manini Beach Park (above) lies on the south lip of the bay. The palmy park is a sure thing for picnics; the snorkeling is excellent; and a short trail leads to a marine conservation district and small beach that is truly hidden.
Not far from Manini is the historic Ke’ei Village. King Kamehameha honed his battlefield skill at the back shore of the village, learning from a mentor whose distant relatives live here today. Mark Twain wrote about surfers he saw here in the late 1800s. Ke’ei offers a quiet coral- and black-sand beach, known to surfers. Near shore swimming in tide pools entice sunbathers. A short walk takes you around the smooth lava fields to the south point of Kealakekua Bay and on to a man-enhanced sea pool that is a dream.
These places, along with scads of others, are detailed in Hawaii the Big Island Trailblazer. This guide has been the choice for independent and curious travelers for more than two decades. Trailblazer is updated frequently and includes tips to ensure your adventures are safe.
