Hilo and the Puna Area
Heading northeast, you’ll pass through the Puna district, and the Hilo district, eventually encountering the city of Hilo. This is the most populated area of the island and the center of most commerce. It is by far the most metropolitan town on the island and you will find shopping, movie theatres and dining a plenty here. One of the island’s most spectacular waterfalls, Rainbow Falls, is located just one mile from Hilo. If the rainfall has been moderate, the falls flow beautifully and with an unusual shape to them. This is one of the highlights of the Hilo area.

Hamakua Coast
Leaving Hilo and continuing north (counter-clockwise around the Island) you’ll drive the “upper road” along the stunning Hamakua Coast, which includes lush valleys, impressive gorges, numerous waterfalls and a glimpse into the old, undeveloped Hawaii. The Island’s famous Waipi`o Valley is located on this Coast and is accessible through several tour operators. The valley is peaceful and lush; the waterfalls and mile-long black sand beach are well worth the drive.

Saddle Road
The last region in completing our circut of the Big Island is Saddle Road providing an east-to-west “shortcut” across the center of the island from Hilo to Kohala. This road passes between Mauna Kea (White Mountain) to the north and Mauna Loa to the south, providing access to both summits, although Mauna Loa is reached with much more difficulty. The stark moonscape of the Mauna Kea summit at 13,976 feet is the highest point in the state of Hawaii. With relatively little precipitation and not much wind, the thin, cold air offers scientists one of the best places in the U.S. for astronomical observations. There are several telescopes at the summit as well as weather stations; some are open the public. Standing at the summit of Mauna Kea you will truly feel like you are on top of the world!