Hawaii's leeward Kona coast gets much less rain than the eastern windward side. As a result, most of the island's beaches and the best snorkeling and diving are found here.  

Hawaii's massive volcanoes force moist Pacific air upwards, causing frequent rains that create waterfalls around the island. Some of them are close to the road, while others lie at the end of meandering rain forest trails.  

Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historic Park may be difficult for most visitors to pronounce, but don't let that stop you from visiting this peaceful beachfront park that was once home to royal Hawaiian chiefs. It's also a good place to see green turtles feeding or resting on the beach.  

Rain and clouds rarely linger on Hawaii's dry Kona coast, and spectacular sunsets are common.  

Hawaii is the youngest of the Hawaiian islands, and some of the newest land on the planet is being created at Volcanoes National Park. Mud pots, steam vents, hot lava pouring into the ocean, and the occasional earthquake make this one of the most exciting places in the islands.  

When conditions are right and lava is flowing, visitors to Volcanoes National Park can hike to one of the most spectacular sights on the planet—hot molten lava from Kilauea volcano pouring directly into the ocean.  

Akaka Falls north of Hilo is one of the island's most popular waterfalls for good reason. The overlook is reached by a gentle, paved path, and the view of the 420-foot cascade plunging into the lush, bowl-shaped amphitheater looks like something out of a Hollywood movie set.  

Along the Kona coast, newly formed lava fields are a reminder that the island is still growing. It's also a favored habitat for the island's wild donkeys.  

Aloha spirit is alive and well on the island of Hawaii.  

Kealakekua Bay is where Captain Cook was killed in 1779. The spot is marked by a memorial, and today the bay is one of the great snorkeling spots on the island. Access is by kayak or by one of the commercial catamaran tours that visit daily.