Points of Interest
- Cloud Forest Sanctuary
Description
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Cloud Forest
High atop the Hualai Volcano sits the Cloud Forest. Located 3,000 feet above sea level, this educational facility and sanctuary is dedicated to the preservation of this spectacular rainforest habitat. Dense, lush forests and magical botanical gardens cling to the slopes of the sleeping volcano. Walk under a cool canopy of 30-foot tall tree ferns, native Ohi'a trees and bamboo.
Parker Ranch
Founded in 1847 by John Parker, the ranch was once the largest in the United States. Hired by King Kamehaameha I to herd cattle, Parker's family story is on display in the ranch's two homes filled with family heirlooms. Learn how "paniolos" or cowboys can trace their roots to the Mexican cowboys who settled in the 1830s. Still a working ranch, the 175,000 acres contain around 30,000 to 35,000 head of cattle and 250 horses.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITY
Tucked in the lovely town of Kapaau stands the original King Kamehameha I statue, erected near the king's birthplace. Commissioned in 1878 and cast in Paris, the statue commemorates the King's conquest and unification of the islands.
LUNCH
Enjoy a delicious lunch in the quaint little town of Hawi, best known as the site of the annual IRONMAN triathlon. Then, work off your meal with free time to explore the town on your own.
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
Enjoy mile after mile of green hills and windswept pastures as you travel along mountain roads.
Pololu Valley
Set at the foot of Kohala Mountain, the black sand beach dunes covered with vegetation create one of the most spectacular panoramic views on the island. Views of the valley floor reveals a landscape of ironwood trees and moderately-sized polished lava rocks. Get your camera poised for the enormous Pu'ukohola Heiau located more than 40 miles away, which was created with stones passed hand to hand from this valley on orders from the King.
Special Notes:
Minimum age is 5 years and maximum weight is 275 lbs. Comfortable closed-toe walking shoes required. Participants must be able to walk over uneven surfaces, including steep hills and stairs. Guests suffering from neck, back or heart conditions are not allowed to participate.Tour timeline may vary to avoid overcrowding, etc.