The west coast of the Big Island of Hawaii welcomes visitors to its unique Hawaiian shores.

The Kohala Coast on the Big Island of Hawaii provokes fantasies of sandy beaches, endless sunsets and welcoming smiles. Although those images won’t disappoint you, a visit to this diverse paradise will expand these stereotypes.

Kona, Hawaii

Begin your adventure by flying into Kona International Airport, a 15-minute drive north of the seaside town Kailua-Kona. WestJet now has direct flights from Vancouver, BC, as well as service from major Canadian cities.

Fly Over Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

For an awe-inspiring look at the Big Island, get in touch with Island Hoppers (1-800-538-7590). With three and six-passenger planes, travellers have an intimate look at the active Kilauea and massive Maunaloa volcanoes, and stunning waterfalls only seen by air.

Journeys are remarkable and give an overview of the Big Island’s diverse landscape. Whether Kilauea is releasing lava, emitting steam or temperamentally grumbling, this is a chance to see it in all its glory.

Two-hour aerial tour: $287 USD

Snorkelling at Kealakekua Bay

For a change of scene, put on your bathing suit and grab your sunscreen for a fun snorkelling trip. Cruises on the Fairwind II vessel (1-800-677-9461) take those of all ages out to Kealakekua Bay. The inlet is an isolated marine sanctuary with strikingly clear waters.

Fairwind II has activities for everyone. Keikis (Hawaiian word for children) can swim with large viewfinders and flotation devises, while the younger ones can play in the on-board playpen. Older kids and adults can take advantage of the 15-foot waterslide and high dive jump. Gear and lunch are included.

Morning cruise: $119 USD for adults

Mounting the Maunkea Volcano

Mauna Kea Summit Adventures (1-888-322-2366) takes groups of travellers up to the 4,205 m (13,796 ft) summit. The first stop of the afternoon is 2,743 m (9,000 ft) up at the Onizuka visitors centre. Here you can use the restrooms, learn about the astronomers who study at the summit and eat your hot meal (included).

By now your body is acclimatized to the height change and the tour continues up to the peak. One of the knowledgeable guides talks about the important observatories and then it’s a free-for-all to take photos of the majestic sunset. The evening ends mid-mountain, where a secluded spot is reserved for stargazing through massive telescopes.

Seven to eight hour tour: $189.12 USD (includes parkas and gloves for the drop in temperature)

Explore Kahua Ranch in Waimea

Don’t bypass Kahua Ranch (1-808-882-4646), the 8,500 acre working ranch that has many fun activities up its sleeve. Drive up 914 m (3,000 ft) to explore the grounds on an ATV or horseback. A two-hour ATV rental costs $95 USD and includes a short lesson, while riding on horseback is $67.70 USD for one and a half hours.

Return in the evening for the legendary “Evening at Kahua Ranch.” Watch the sunset with a local Kona beer, partake in horseshoe throwing and roping, and even try branding. The owners tell the history of the ranch and the importance of the Paniolo (cowboys) in a setting as authentic as you can get.

Dinner: $89 USD

Tours of the island with excellent drivers are provided by Jack’s Tours (1-800-442-5557). Learn the history of Kona, climb Maunakea or customize your own itinerary.

Note the recommended accommodations along the Kona-Kohala Coast.

Contact the Big Island Visitors Bureau, 1-800-464-2924, to help plan your trip.