The crown jewel of the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel dining scene is stunning in every aspect, from the unique decor to the exotic dishes to the superb views. The restaurant is set on its own tiny island. Guests walk on a stone path, crossing the stream on a tiny bridge. Once there, it's easy to see and hear the Pacific Ocean located just a few hundred yards away. Signature items include the Lobster Tempura appetizer, the Seared White Peppered Ahi and the Grilled Lemon Pepper Scallops.

Snorkelers and divers flock to this bay, which is a designated marine preserve and home to hundreds of varieties of tropical fish, sea turtles and even some dolphins. Kayakers also enjoy the calm, warm waters. History buffs will be more interested in the monument to Captain James Cook, the first British sailor to venture to Hawai'i. Cook was at first revered by the Hawaiians, who believed him to be the god Lono, but eventually they killed him in a skirmish upon his return to the island.

Hotels such as Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel and its sister hotel, the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, offer a level of luxury not matched by many places in the world. It's not just the hotel, but also its elegant decor, brand-name amenities and perfectly mannered staff that earn awards regularly. The natural surroundings are incomparable. White sand beach and clear blue water border the hotel on one side; rolling greens border it on the other.

Only a 15-minute drive from downtown Kona, this hotel feels like it is in its own country; it is located in a gated resort community. Like all the Four Seasons Hotels, this hotel offers the ultimate in understated luxury. The pace of life is slow and serene, making it easy to relax and forget about the stress of the outside world. The entire property is exquisitely outfitted and maintained, and the staff is perfectly trained to meet guests' needs efficiently and graciously. Avail of the resort's exclusive Spa facilities.

Keokea Beach Park lies on Hawaii's northern shore. The beach area is small and rocky with the water nearly inaccessible. Water conditions on this shore are often rough with high surf. Fishing is the most popular use of this site. The county of Hawaii does maintain full facilities at this beach park. The campsites are not used often, so seclusion is usually a safe bet here. Many mature trees grow in the grassy camping area fronted by the lava rock beach. Facilities include the following: covered picnic tables, drinking water, dishwashing area, rest rooms, electric lights and showers. Follow the Queen Kaahumanu Highway (19) north to Waikui. In Waikui bear left on the Akoni Pule Highway (270). Follow this to the windward side of the island. Once past Hawi, you'll see signs for the beach park.

Gourmet Continental cuisine amidst Bavarian decor, but without the attitude.

The secluded green expanses and breathtaking coastline of Kahua Ranch are the site of these horseback excursions. The trail is wide enough to allow for open range riding, where horses are allowed to get abreast of one another. It passes by cinder cones, grazing pastures and the ruins of ancient Hawaiian villages. There's plenty of sights to seeand plenty of places to gallop! Book space in advance and call to confirm.

Malolo Lounge, inspired and designed with SS Malolo décor in mind. Situated adjacent to the resort's lobby, the Malolo Lounge provides a stylish and comfortable atmosphere reminiscent of the kama'aina lifestyle of yesteryear and was inspired by the historical SS MALOLO steamship. There is a renewed interest in old Hawaii and Hawaiian culture. One icon of the era that was perceived to be long gone was the era of steamship travel among the Hawaiian islands before the war in the late 20's and early 30's. The inspirational SS MALOLO, that made its maiden voyage from San Francisco to Hawaii in 1927, signaled the birth of Hawaii tourism. America's ongoing fascination with all things Hawaiian from fashion to food to the intriguing aloha spirit can be traced back to this romantic era. The Kama'aina living room atmosphere was inspired by the lounges aboard steamships that sailed from San Francisco to Hawaii during the early 1920's. The casual elegance of the Malolo Lounge includes five distinctive seating areas: Multi-purpose Lounge, Bar Lounge, Billiard Game Area and two Outdoor Lanais with a mix of rattan and teak furniture along with rich tropical colors and natural woods. The intimacy of these seating areas is enhanced by colorful carpeting, tall palm plants and lush orchids. The natural color scheme compliments the beauty, comfort, and simple elegance of this lounge. Hawaiian art depicts the lush landscapes, volcanic scenery and colorful tropical images of the 1920's Steamship era. All artwork is original, created by artists from the Big Island. The artwork, the music and dance of the islands exudes the warm hospitality of Hilton Waikoloa Village. Espresso Bar & Patisserie: 7:00am - 10:00am Gourmet Sandwiches, Appetizers: 11:00am - 10:00pm Cocktails: 11:00am - 1:00am * Menu features Gourmet Sandwiches, Light Salads, and Hawaiian inspired pupus (appetizers) * Signature tropical drinks, with a soon to be famous "SS Malolo" cocktail. Classic Cockails and an extensive Martini Menu. 20 wines by the glass, with a complete selection of Cognacs and Ports. Hawaiian and imported draft beers on tap in addition to a selection of domestic and imported bottled beer. * A fine selection of cigars is displayed in a showcase humidor and available for cigar aficionados. Entertainment: * Jazz Musings by Featured Artists: 9:00pm - Midnight Piano player & Vocalist * Sporting events and activities can be viewed on a 42-inch plasma television.

This is a popular little joint that appeals to both locals and tourists alike. The talented chef-owner, Harriet-Ann Namahaokalani Schutte Kraan, fondly called 'Maha', serves up some delicious lunchtime snacks that will have you coming back for more. Try the Paniolo-style Turkey with Stuffin's or the Smoked Ahi with Lilikoi Salsa, and if you're in time for breakfast, the Poi Pancakes with Coconut Syrup are a must-have!

Ever heard of the snows of Mauna Kea? This is where you find them. In the winter, the slopes here get plenty of snow. The reserve is noteworthy for several other reasons, as well. Natural deposits left by Ice Age glaciers are easily visible to any science buff. People with an interest in archaeology may want to hike the 40-minute path to Lake Waiau, where an archaeological site still shows remnants of ancient pre-contact Hawai'i. Plenty of other people come here to get a good look at the island from the vantage point of 13,000 feet above sea level. Note: Limited access to rental cars. Check before attempting to make the drive.

This quiet, peaceful beach is located behind the Orchid at Mauna Lani. While it is separate from any of the hotels, it often gets included in hotel amenity lists. A secluded, rocky expanse, it is good for hiking or picnicking, but not so good for swimming. A path across the parking lot from the beach leads to the Puako Petroglyphs. Restrooms and picnic tables are onsite. Pets and off-road vehicles are not allowed and camping is prohibited. Do not try to bend the rules, security guards patrol regularly.

The establishment was originally built in 1846, making it the state's oldest hotel. It has since been renovated nine times. The key attraction is its location-it is situated within the grounds of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, offering views of Kilauea Caldera and Mauna Loa. Common space includes a lava-stone fireplace, a necessity in this chilly region of the Big Island. A restaurant and a lounge are available onsite.