HAWAI`I'S BIG ISLAND – Hawai`i's Big Island is Hawai`i's Island of Adventure. Its diverse eco-system provides infinite possibilities for cultural, culinary, natural and spiritual adventures. From the beaches of the Kohala Coast to the waterfalls of Hilo, from the crater of Ki-lauea, the world's most active volcano, to the summit of Mauna Kea – the Big Island holds the ultimate adventure for everyone.
HAWAI`I'S BIG ISLAND – Adventures, Events and Activities
A Taste of the Hawaiian Range – Take a bite on the wild side October 6 at the 11th annual culinary and agricultural event which challenges Hawai`i's top chefs to create savory dishes using unusual cuts of forage-grown beef and fresh country vegetables. Tickets are $35 per person in advance or $50 at the door, and are available at www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/taste, or call (808) 322-4892. Location: Hilton Waikoloa Village, 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Presented by the Cooperative Extension Service of the University of Hawai`i at Ma-noa's College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources.
Hawai`i's gift to fashion is the aloha shirt. Dale Hope, who grew up in Hawai`i's garment industry and is the creative director for the Patagonia label, shares stories about the bygone days when travelers to Hawai`i arrived via the S.S. Lurline. Displays include coconut buttons, vintage shirts, labels and more. The attendee wearing the best aloha shirt wins a copy of Hope's book The Aloha Shirt, Spirit of the Islands. September 29, free, at the Volcano Art Center's Niaulani Campus in Volcano Village. Call (808) 967-8222 or visit www.volcanoartcenter.org
Kona Brewing Company Unveils New Pipeline Porter – Fine Kona coffee meets Hawai`i's largest brewery in the new Pipeline Porter, a limited-release brew handcrafted by the masters at Kona Brewing Company. Pipeline Porter, which will surf onto store shelves in September, is dark chocolate in color with a rich roasted malt flavor and a smooth coffee finish. It is the first beer in eight years to join Kona Brewing Company's quality lineup. Visit www.konabrewingcompany.com for more information, or call (808) 334-1133.
Mountain Thunder Coffee Pours into Kainaliu – Mountain Thunder Coffee, which specializes in certified organic, 100 percent Kona coffee, will open a new, five-acre organic farm in historic Kainaliu town on October 1. The farm will also grow organic green tea, and offers a gift shop, free tours and tastings six days a week. Call (808) 325-2136 or visit www.mountainthunder.com for more information.
Hawai`i's Big Island – Hotels, Resorts & B&Bs
September marks the 10th anniversary of Four Seasons Resort Huala-lai, which celebrates by offering guests an irresistible package. The 10th Anniversary Package includes accommodations, breakfast for two daily, a bottle of champagne upon arrival, and a 'fifth round free' certificate at the Huala-lai Golf Course. Package prices start at $625 per night, from September 15 – December 18, 2006. Some restrictions and taxes apply. Contact (888) 340-5662 for information or email reservations.kon@fourseasons.com
Find waterfall bliss at The Falls at Reed's Island—This stunning new vacation rental is located in Hilo's most upscale enclave, Reed's Island, just one mile from downtown Hilo. The three-bedroom house is perched at eye level to one of Hawai`i's most beautiful waterfalls, and is flanked by the Wailuku River and lush Hawaiian rainforest. The Falls at Reed's Island features private bathrooms, hot-and-cold soaking tubs and gorgeous views from every window. Visit www.reedsisland.com for details.
The Fairmont Orchid, Hawai`i has expanded its exquisite Japanese restaurant, Norio's Sushi Bar & Restaurant. In early September, Norio's will offer patrons a larger sushi bar and three master sushi chefs will slice and dice behind the bar. In December, Fairmont reveals a new guestroom look that includes tropical-inspired décor and color schemes, just in time for the holidays. Visit www.fairmont.com/orchid
The Hilton Waikoloa Village is in the midst of a $61 million, three-phase resort enhancement project scheduled for completion at the end of 2007. The list includes renovations to its 1,240 guest rooms, the 25,000 square-foot Kohala Sports Club & Spa, the tennis stadium, three signature restaurants, adding high-speed wireless connectivity, and updating meeting facilities. Visit www.hiltonwaikoloavillage.com
The Waikoloa Beach Marriott on the beautiful Kohala Coast offers the Paradise Plus Vacation Package through December 15, 2006. Rates start at $269 per night per room, and include garden/mountain views, a choice of a daily compact rental car, or daily breakfast. From December 16—20, Paradise Plus starts at $299. Restrictions apply, based on availability. Call (877) 359-3699 or visit www.marriotthawaii.com
