You have two gateways into the Big Island, either Kona or Hilo International Airports. The two are almost directly opposite each other, with Hilo on the windward east coast and Kona on the leeward west coast. You can begin your exploration of the Big Island from either place. Both have equal access to the entire island via a generally well-maintained highway system. Some parts of the main circle-island highway may have narrow, winding sections, such as the south Kona area, which crosses old lava fields, and the Hamakua Coast area, which passes through several deep gulches along the coast. So don't expect to hit freeway speeds. But you want to take it slow in any case, taking the time to see some of the most magnificent scenery in the islands. Overall, the Big Island has an excellent highway system. And you can't get lost because all roads link to the main circle-island route and it's the only way around the island. The circle-island northern route is Highway 19 and the southern route is Highway 11.
If you rent a car, the agency will provide a good map of the Big Island. But you may want to pick up a copy of the latest Map of Hawaii, a full color detailed topographic map of the Big Island by James Bier and published by the University of Hawaii Press. It's available in many island bookstores and shops. It provides great information on roads, highways and major attractions. Depending upon your final destination on the Big Island, you'll be arriving at either Hilo International Airport or Kona International Airport. And you'll need to make arrangements for local transportation to your hotel or lodging. The Hilo Airport is less than three miles from the Banyan Drive hotels. The Kona Airport is seven-14 miles from the hotels of the Kailua-Kona to Keauhou area. Kohala Coast resorts are spread out for 20-30 miles north of the Kona Airport. Taxis are numerous at both airports but they can be expensive. Check the taxi stands out in front of the baggage claim areas.
Touring the Big Island
The Big Island presents a changing scene as one travels around the island. And since it is a rather "big island," it does take a while, probably the better part of a day just to drive it completely. But you shouldn't rush because there is an awful lot to see. The Big Island has the most varied terrain, climate and geophysical features of any of the islands. You can literally surf and swim on a tropical beach in the morning, then go snow skiing on Mauna Kea in the afternoon. So take your time and enjoy all that it has to offer.
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