We will be staying at Orchids at Mauna Lani in April. Do they provide items like snorkeling equipment, bicycles, etc. What is their beach like (read it was "man-made" -- does that mean it's not on the "real" ocean)? My 14-year-old son wants to take part in the Dolphin Experience (at the Hilton I believe) for teenagers -- has anyone done this before? How long does it take to drive from Kohala to Hilo and/or Volcano National Park? Answers to any or all of these questions will be much appreciated, as will any additional advice about enjoying the Big Island. Is April a good month to go?? Thanks again.

Just returned from Big Island last week. Cant help about Mauna Lani, although very nice beach at the hotel. We traveled all over in 10 days. The drive to Hilo will take 3-4 hours no matter which direction you go. The weather is wonderful now, Hi of 80 lows in 60s. Must dos: Puuhonua o Honaunau (place of refuge) nice exhibit, good tide pools. Can eat at The Coffee Shack..they have a great view. Also snorkeling at Kahaluu Beach Park just south of kailua kona..several sea turtles, all kinds of fish and even a lifeguard! A great website is konaweb.com with lots of info Volcan N.P. is also a must, if you can spend 1-2 nights there, youll appreciate it much more. Also the black sand beach on South part of the island ( Punnuluu,)
has tons of sea turtles in the water
and on the beach. Best guide book is "Hawaii The Big Island Revealed"

Thanks, Rene for your comments and your advice. Can't see the places you suggested. Recently received the guidebook you suggested, "Big Island Revealed" through Barnes and Noble through the Internet and it is wonderfully detailed with ratings, detailed information and reviews for everything from beaches and hikes to resorts and restaurants. More advice from anyone on Big Island "must sees" (and/or detailed trip reports) would be much appreciated.

Oooops. The post above should say "can['t WAIT TO see" the places you suggested, not "can't see".

elane, I did a trip report on recent trip on 3/8.
Bart

My husband & I also liked the place of refuge. We also enjoyed the Hilo side of the island. The Hilo Hawaiian Hotel was nice. There are some nice hikes to waterfalls north of Hilo. We drove to the Waipi'o Valley overlook-very beautiful. We wanted to go into the valley but we were there on a Sunday.