ハワイ郡の天然記念物・トップ20

Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and challenging experiences one can have on a bicycle and in the middle of the ocean! Setting off early in the morning from the quiet beach to reach the 4,207-meter summit of Mauna Kea is an immense satisfaction. The first part, from the city of Hilo up to a few kilometers before the Visitor Center at 2,700 meters, is relatively easy but also a bit monotonous. However, about a kilometer after taking the Mauna Kea Access Road, the gradient starts to rise steeply, often reaching double digits. Once you arrive at the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station, after the mandatory stop at the Ranger Checkpoint, you can enjoy a well-deserved break and stock up on water before facing the toughest section of the entire climb. Immediately after the VIS begins a long stretch of unpaved road with sharp gradients and a surface that often offers little grip, putting even the strongest legs to the test. After this grueling segment, the ascent continues on asphalt again, but the slopes remain steep and the altitude begins to take its toll, making the final conquest of the summit truly a feat within a feat. Once you reach the long-awaited summit sign, you can finally take a deep breath of relief and admire—with a huge smile—the breathtaking view that awaits you. I traveled 31 hours to conquer this gem, and every bit of effort was more than worth it!

If the ocean is not calm, access to the snorkeling area is not easy, or dangerous . Pay attention to the sign indicating walking on the reef being not allowed.

A superb experience. The highest point should not be climbed out of respect for the local religions.

beautifully landscaped Japanese-style park with tea house and giant trees

interesting petroglyphs at a place sacred to the indigenous population

impressive 500-meter-long tunnel in the lava flow

The Akaka Falls are worth seeing even when it rains.

Never seen anything like this before