Hilo Travel Forum

My family and I will be cruising Hawaii in March '05 (I know, a cruise is not the best way to absorb the Hawaiian experience but the price was right). Our interests are mostly snorkeling, hiking, biking and general beach lounging (oh yeah shopping is a priority for my wife and daughter). My daughter (16) is also interested in beginner surfing. Our ports of call are below. Any suggestions as to which ports lend themselves better than others to these activities? I have general dislike for tours and such arranged aboard ship and we usually like to rent a car at stops and find our own adventures or find local tours and outfitters.

Hilo, Hawaii 9:30am to 5pm
Kahului, Maui 8am to 10:30pm
Lahaina, Maui 7am to 8pm
Nawiliwili, Kauai 8am to 5pm
Kailua-Kona Hawaii 7am to 5pm

Hilo is the closest point to the volcano and hiking, if that's your desire. After parking your car you can hike maybe 2 miles over the lava to see where it enters the ocean. Wear sturdy shoes or tennis shoes. No sandles because it's rugged and hot. There is a large reception center at the top of the volcano with good restrooms, food, etc.
On Kona side, my side, I suggest you leave the Kona Pier and go South on Alii Drive for about 6 miles to Kahaluu Bay Beach Park to snorkel and swim with the sea turtles. They are protected and life guards remind people to not touch them. Water is shallow, protected, clean, and very popular. Locals prefer this beach as do the regular visitors and you will see more of the Hawaii lifestyle. Public restrooms, showers, and lunch wagons on site. I think you can rent snorkel gear there also. Across the road is a surf board rental place and lessons. You can take a taxi, take the local bus, or rental car. It's easy to get there because Alli Drive follows the coast from the pier, passed my place, and to the park. You can't get lost. Kona is more old Hawaii and casual.
For a picture of the bay you can go to the website for the hotel next door at http://www.ohanahotels.com and click on "Select Hotel or Condo." Then scroll down to Hawaii (Big Island) and click on Ohana Keauhou Beach Resort. You will see the hotel picture at the top with the bay in the background. You may want to stroll over to this hotel for lunch by the sea as they have an open gate from the park to the hotel. If you later walk up to the main hotel and go to their outdoor bar, you can stand by the rail and look down at the fish and sea turtles.
I have cruised several times and know your time is limited so this should help you quickly get to the very nice snorkel beach in Kona, eat, swim. and easily back to your ship with no great expense nor stress.

Thanks K Max!

Check out http://www.hawaii.com and click on various islands and their webcam's. The park I mentioned is one of your "Big Island" selections.