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Since many visitors stay at the mega resorts along the Kohala Coast, this is familiar “moonscape” territory for most visitors as it is generally their first impression of the Big Island landscape. Around mile marker 11, turn west into the Waikoloa resort area. There you will find the King’s Shops and the Queen’s Shops where you can find upscale, touristy shopping and fine dining. Behind the King’s Shops gas station, walk along an ancient petroglyph trail in the lava rock.
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| Along this stretch of the island, you can find several nice beaches such as Hapuna Beach and Spencer Beach Park. As you approach the intersection of Hwy 270 take the left run and head toward Kawaihae. Around mile marker 2.5 you will find Puukohola Heiau. This massive temple was built by King Kamehameha in 1790 and dedicated to a war god to help him conquer Hawaii. Human sacrifices were often made to ensure that the gods were well pleased as the Heiau was being built. You can also find other ancient temple sites like Mookini Heiau build in 480 A.D. and the remains of a Hawaiian Village dating back 600 years at Lapakahi State Historical Park. A statue of Kamehameha, restored in 2001 stands on the grounds of the Kohala Information Center on Hwy 270 in the town of Kapaau. |
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Take a drive to the end of the road at Pololu Valley to see another spectacular view of the ocean and dramatic landscape. The peaceful drive along Route 250 winds around Kohala Mountain, the island’s oldest dormant volcano, and rambles through picturesque rolling hills and cattle ranch country. The road ends up in Waimea where you can stop for a meal or to browse in the Parker Ranch store.
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| Along this stretch of the island, you can find several nice beaches such as Hapuna Beach and Spencer Beach Park. As you approach the intersection of Hwy 270 take the left run and head toward Kawaihae. Around mile marker 2.5 you will find Puukohola Heiau. This massive temple was built by King Kamehameha in 1790 and dedicated to a war god to help him conquer Hawaii. Human sacrifices were often made to ensure that the gods were well pleased as the Heiau was being built. You can also find other ancient temple sites like Mookini Heiau build in 480 A.D. and the remains of a Hawaiian Village dating back 600 years at Lapakahi State Historical Park. A statue of Kamehameha, restored in 2001 stands on the grounds of the Kohala Information Center on Hwy 270 in the town of Kapaau. |
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| Take a drive to the end of the road at Pololu Valley to see another spectacular view of the ocean and dramatic landscape. The peaceful drive along Route 250 winds around Kohala Mountain, the island’s oldest dormant volcano, and rambles through picturesque rolling hills and cattle ranch country. The road ends up in Waimea where you can stop for a meal or to browse in the Parker Ranch store. |
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