Panorama

Located 30 miles outside of Hilo town along the Puna coast, Ahalanui County Park is one of those places that once you discover, you feel like someone let you in on a secret. The main attraction is a geothermal hot pond. Surrounded by towering coconut trees and jungle foliage, the remote pool is heated by underlying volcanic activity to a comfortable 90 degrees Fahrenheit. A man-made lava retaining wall keeps the ocean out. The waves crashing over the wall only add to the experience. A lifeguard is usually on duty during the day, but if you come at night, you are on your own. Make sure you bring a flashlight because it is pitch dark. Be advised that some visitors opt swim without clothing. Picnic tables are also onsite.

Nicknamed the The Cadillac of helicopter tour companies, (Frommer's Hawaii) this tour company aims to provide each guest with a perfect flight experience. Each year, it is awarded a Five Star Diamond Award by the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences, proof that it has met its goal. Each helicopter is spacious and comfortable, offering 180-degree views. Tours include: Kilauea Volcano, lava fields, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the Hamakua coast, the Kohala coast and Waimanu Valley. Call for tour prices and reservations.

If you are looking to plan a Hawaii vacation and can't decide where to start, look no further. Eco-Adventures Hawaii can assist you every step of the way. From lodgings to adventure hikes to activities, you will find your game plan quickly taking shape. Eco-Adventures plans your complete vacation package, from airfare quotes to luaus. Specials are available on dive packages, heli-tour packages and more. All you need is an idea of what activities interest you; Eco-Adventures can take care of the rest.

Ever heard of the snows of Mauna Kea? This is where you find them. In the winter, the slopes here get plenty of snow. The reserve is noteworthy for several other reasons, as well. Natural deposits left by Ice Age glaciers are easily visible to any science buff. People with an interest in archaeology may want to hike the 40-minute path to Lake Waiau, where an archaeological site still shows remnants of ancient pre-contact Hawai'i. Plenty of other people come here to get a good look at the island from the vantage point of 13,000 feet above sea level. Note: Limited access to rental cars. Check before attempting to make the drive.

If you've ever wanted a truly "up-close-and-personal" flying experience, this is your opportunity. Mauna Loa Helicopters offers a one-on-one tour that allows you to see all of the beauty of the Big Island. Map out your own course, based on what you want to see. There is no set route, as interests vary by passenger. Your guide is a knowledgeable, personable island local, with all the background information to make your trip a memorable one. Call in advance to reserve a time.

Volcanoes and valleys, waterfalls and lava flows, see the natural phenomena that comprise the Big Island of Hawaii. Mokulele Flight Service is family owned and offers an authentic island tour experience. Tours are small and plenty of personal attention is given to each guest. Air tours encircle the island, honing in on areas of interest. Aircraft are high-winged, providing the most unobstructed view possible. Window seating is guaranteed, and a two-way radio system allows for pilot/passenger communication.

It is nearly impossible to take in all that Hawaii has to offer, if you are traveling by car. Safari Helicopter Tours offers a comfortable way to view the volcano from above, see Parker Ranch, the Kona Coast and the waterfalls of Waipio Valley; all may be viewed within the space of a few hours. It is the best way to see the major sights in a relatively short period of time. The air-conditioned helicopters offer forward-facing seats and 180-degree views. A video and sound system narrates the tour as you go and is also available for purchase.

The famous 'Black Beauty' helicopters of Maui and the Big Island are among the best ways to tour famous natural sights. On the Big Island, the helicopters make two different journeys. The first is over majestic, volatile Kilauea and the surrounding valleys. See active lava and hidden waterfalls. The second excursion tours the Kohala Coast, taking passengers over such renowned places as Waipi'o Valley. Tours start at 150 dollars per person for a 45 minute ride. Call for reservations or more information.

Even those who are normally afraid of heights might be enticed by parasailing on the Big Island. It is hard to fully appreciate the island's natural beauty without experiencing at least a brief panoramic view. UFO offers dry take-off and landing by utilizing winchboats. Air travel time can be either 400-feet for seven minutes (USD42) or 800-feet for 10 minutes (USD52). Your parasailing experience can be solo or tandem. All ages are welcome; the physically handicapped can oftentimes be accommodated.