mat-got it !

martym-thanks for the tips !
-will add them to the others I've printed out
that Ke'ei Cafe has come up more than once.

Thanks everyone !

R5

You have gotten such good advice, I hate to add anything more to what will be a busy schedule.

Since you will be on the Big Island during the height of whale watching season, I encourage you to take binoculars, and keep them in the car with you.

The drive up to Hawi is a perfect place to spot whales. The heiau at Pu'ukohola is impressive, historic, atmospheric, and mythical http://www.nps.gov/puhe/index.htm.

Just 10 minutes further towards Hawi is Lapakahi, a State Park which is similarly a great spot for whales. http://www.hawaiistateparks.org/park...i/lapakahi.cfm

Both places are free, just off the highway, but close early (3:30 at Lapakahi). Both are great picture spots, easy hikes, and have tidepools with tropical fish.

Since I am based in Hawi I am biased, but I will also suggest checking out the weather in advance and having some flexibility to avoid any downpours during your Hilo, Hawi and Hamakua driving days. The drive from Hawi to Waimea is spectacular when the weather is clear. Sometimes in the same view you will see the Kohala coast and snow on Mauna Kea.

Everything is wonderful on the Big Island. Even the traffic is greatly improved. Enjoy yourselves, relax, and breathe in the fragrant Aloha spirit.

Now that the Holidays have settled themselves down
I can finally com back to print out all this terrific advice !
3 weeks and counting !

Thanks very,very much everyone !

R5

Razzle: When you get a chance, please go to your post about the Northshore of Oahu, I have a question for you. Thanks JMS

My question is: what are the caveats for the Koi/Ginger house on Oahu??E-mail me at [email protected], please.