Adventure: "an exciting experience; a bold undertaking of unknown outcome; a remarkable occurrence in one's personal history." Adventure on Hawaii 's Big Island are diverse and elemental, and can be physical, recreational, and even spiritual.

Big Island Adventures

• Big Island Land Adventures
• Big Island Water Adventures
• Big Island Sky Adventures
• Big Island Astronomy Adventures
  

The West, or Kona, Side of the island is dry and sunny -- a nexus of activity with deep-sea fishing, quaint shops and restaurants, snorkeling, SCUBA diving, submarine underwater tours, hikes through thick rainforests, horseback riding ... If you're a high activity type, the West Side is the place for you.

The Kohala Coast is Hawaii 's Golf Mecca with world-class golf courses. Just getting there is a visual adventure as you drive through vast, dramatic lava fields. If your eyes are really sharp, you might be able to spot the Kona Nightingales (donkeys) which blend into the landscape. Upcountry, the scenery changes dramatically. Waimea is home to Parker Ranch where fluorescent green pastures give way to lush valleys and a host of vibrant natural greens.

On the East Side, Waipio Valley is filled with brilliant flowers and breathtaking waterfalls. Tiny towns and highways built on old railroad trestle bridges recall the sugar plantation heritage of the Hamakua Coast. And the island's must-see is Kilauea, the earth's most active volcano.