Alternative ways to visit Hawaii (Hilo, Waipio: hotels, home, teaching jobs)

[Cameron Cayman]

Do any of you all know of any possible ways or ideas to visit Hawaii that are different than the typical "tacky" tourist routine? I would really like to take my two boys to Hawaii but, at the same time, I don't want to visit in the typical tourist trap method. I want to experience Hawaii in a different way, a more pure way....to learn more about the traditional polynesian lifestyle, the history, and the natural beauty.

[Mar0]

You could visit either Big Island or Kauai to avoid much of the touristy stuff that you might find on Oahu. It might be worthy to visit Oahu for a day to see Pearl Harbor, Bishop Museum and Iolani Palace, which are all historically significant and quite interesting.

Both Big Island and Kauai have lots of natural beauty and are less crowded than Oahu and Maui. You could check out vrbo for accommodations, to avoid the big chain hotels.

[hotzcatz]

WWOOFing might do it although that's a bit more of a lifestyle than a vacation. WWOOF Hawaii - Willing Workers on Organic Farms

[surfagoody]

Originally Posted by hotzcatz

WWOOFing might do it although that's a bit more of a lifestyle than a vacation. WWOOF Hawaii - Willing Workers on Organic Farms

I think this wwoofing thing is amazing and am so glad you put it one of your post. I was discussing the possibilities of the exact same thing with my wife just the other day and am so suprised to find it already being done. It seem like a very logical course of action for those out there that feel there must be more to life than working you're ass off for the all mighty dollar instead of working for a cause or your passion.
I'm not saying organic horticulture is my passion but I do believe that given the chance there are many people who would forsake working a job out of neccessity to work instead in an environment that brings you back to the root of our being.

I may seriously consider using this as an option to make my transition to the big island a little smoother. If for nothing more than the summer while me and my wife wait for teaching jobs to begin in the fall.

[Dreaming of Hawaii]

I suggest spending time on the Hilo side of the Big Island. Older town with lots of cultural diversity. Great farmer's market. You can easily go from there to the volcano viewing site and visit the Lava Tree State Park. Also in Hilo is the Imiloa Observatory Center, which has great exhibits on both the observatories and Hawaiian culture. Just north of Hilo is Akaka Falls, with is an easy hike to an amazing site.

[KoaHawaii]

Totally agree with going to one of the less populated and crowded islands. Big Island is perfect to discover the history of the old plantation times that brought many Japanese, Chinese, Filipino immigrants etc. over to the islands. I would stay away from Kona and Waikoloa side only because they're more touristy. Though Kona does have history has the Hulihee Palace and some other historic buildings so there are interesting sights but if you really want the old Hawaiian feel try Hamakua coast, between Hilo and Waimea. I'd visit Waipio Valley or at least the lookout as it is a beautiful sight. I know there are horse back riding thats offered on the Valley rim. There's a kayak company, I can't remember the name that runs through the old sugar plantation canals, towards Hilo side. BI also offers the volcano, which is somewhat touristy though it is the home of Pele and has created the islands so it's an interesting sight, plus when you gonna see an active volcano. Akaka, Rainbow Falls all good sights to see beauty of Hawai'i. If you can go to farmer's market in Hilo, many locals selling good, great atmosphere. Honoka'a is a good old sugar plantation town that has small mom and pop shops, the poeple are great (I should know my whole family stay there). you can get some shave ice at CJs or go up the hill to tex drive in. you can visit Waimea and see Parker Ranch, which gave rise to the paniolos or Hawaiian cowboys. Even North Kohala is good to take a drive around as it is the birthplace of King Kamehameha who created a united Kingdom of Hawai'i. Area south of Kona though is also nice to see. you can go down to Honaunau and visit the city of refuge. beautiful and steeped in culture. also good place to find locals and visitors alike swimming with honu or sea turtles

hope dis helps

[wb3690]

I would go to one of the other islands and take a day trip to oahu to see sites you want to see here.

Maui is my favorite island, but all of them are unique. The Big Island is one of my favorite places......Hilo is so unique. Also where else can you see an active volcano so easily? I just love that entire side of the island from Volcano to Waipio........

[skilaketahoe]

Brilliant tips. Thanks guys.

When in Rome, live like a Roman rather than being in a Hilton eating McDonalds.