We are going to the BI mid-March-- first time ever to Hawaii. What are the must sees and dos? Also, any feedback on the Mauna Lani resort?

Hi, Beth,
I predict you will love the Mauna Lani and the Big Island.

The island really demands a car for touring - the Parker ranch country and the uplands, a drive in the Kona hills and a visit to the City of Refuge, breakfast or lunch at Sam Choy's in the industrial park near Kona, a day drive to Hilo, maybe a helicopter or fixed-wing flight over the volcano... there really is so much to see and do, as well as enjoying the beautiful resort. Don't miss dinner at the Canoe House, one of the most romantic restaurants we've ever been to.

Beth,

I'd spend at least a couple of nights in a B&B on the edge of Volcanoes Nat'l Park, maybe Kilauea Lodge (it's great!) Have heard great things about the Mauna Lani Resort and beach, although haven't stayed there. Eat at Roy's Waikoloa Grill, just wonderful food! Drive up in the coffee country, around Hulualoa, and definitely visit Puuhonau o Honaunau Nat'l Historic Park!

So much of the Big Island is REAL Hawaii! You'll have a wonderful time!

Aloha, Ruth

In addition to the foregoing excellent responses, I'd just add the following: 1. do not miss the 20 mile scenic drive along Kohala Mountain Road (#250)..incredibly beautiful! The road ends at the little town of "Hawi" where you MUST have the macadamia nut ice cream at "Tropical Dreams". 2. drive along the Hamakua Coast for a daytrip, stopping at Akaka Falls, the 4 mile "scenic detour" and whatever else catches your fancy. 3. I recommend the horseback ride in the Waip'io Valley, which is a sacred valley little changed from the days of the taro farmers! 4. Do not miss eating at Roy's Waikoloa Grill...also recommended are Merriman's (in Waimea) and Oodles of Noodles (for lunch in Kailua-Kona). ENJOY!

Beth,

Forgot to tell you to visit Hawaii Tropical Botanical Gardens above Hilo - just gorgeous, and a MUST if you love beautiful flowers. All Frank's suggestions are right on, also! Merriman's has some of the best food in all the islands! Aloha!

Re: Frank's message above, item #1, also in Hawi, the Bamboo Restaurant is great, real small town Hawaii, local gathering spot and art gallery. And don't miss the approx 10 mile drive east from Hawi to the end of the road and the walk down (900 ft vertical) to Pololu Valley- great views of coast and mountains.

I second Ruth's recommendation on the Kilauea Lodge. One of my absolute favorite places on this earth. After an intimate dinner at the Lodge, drive down the chain of craters road (Volcano Park) at dark to view the lava flow and a million stars in the sky. Absolutely incredible. If the whales are still running, be sure to book a whale watch on the Seasmoke catamaran at the Outrigger Resort on the Kohala Coast. Their Luau is also top notch. Definitely dine at Roy's in Waikoloa and Merriman's in Waimea. Take a time out for spa treatments at the Kohala Spa at the Hilton Waikoloa. Hike Waipio Valley and have a Malasada donut at Tex's on the way. I definitely recommend the Kilauea Lodge at least 2 nights to explore the wonder of Volcano Village and the Hawaii Natl Volcano Park. Check out their website for up to date info on eruptions.

Aloha!