Anna Ranch

Nestled in the rolling green hills of Waimea, Anna Ranch Heritage Center, a National Historic Site, is a 110-acre ranch that is dedicated to the celebration of the history of ranching in Hawaii. Known locally as the First Lady of Ranching, Anna Perry-Fiske was an accomplished pau rider, a devoted community advocate and innovative rancher, running her family property until the age of 95. Anna Ranch continues to be a community hub and an important cultural site to the diverse history of Hawaii Island.

Kona Coffee

Coffee devotees worldwide celebrate the depth of flavor of Kona coffee. A small area on the slopes of Hualalai mountain, Kona’s rich volcanic soil and cool, misty afternoons are uniquely suited to growing some of the world’s finest Arabica Typica coffees. At Kona Joe’s family coffee farm, the plant goes from seed to cup on property, making it a hyperlocal treat. Farm tours and tastings are available daily and should not be missed.

Puako Petroglyphs

Within the Mauna Lani Resort area lies the ancient Puako Petroglyph Archeological Preserve. After passing through a small kiawe forest, visitors will emerge onto a large plain filled with more than 3,000 ancient petroglyphs. Humans, canoes, turtles and other forms dating back to 1200 AD are etched into rocks throughout the site. While the true meanings behind the carvings are unknown, historians believe that the ancient Hawaiians created carvings for significant events in peoples’ lives. The site is family friendly, and a pair of sneakers is recommended.

Waipio Valley

On the far side of Waimea is Hawaii Island’s sacred Valley of the Kings, more commonly referred to as the Waipio Valley. About a one hour drive from Mauna Lani, the Waipio Valley Overlook boasts breathtaking vistas of the one mile wide and five mile deep valley. With plunging waterfalls, verdant taro fields and 2,000 foot cliffs, the Waipio Valley is home to some of Hawaii’s most spectacular scenery; but the significance of the area goes back much further. King Kamehameha I grew up in this valley and it was once home to thousands of Native Hawaiians. If you want to go into the valley, contact the concierge to set up a horseback ride or guided van tour.

Kealakekua Bay

Down slope from the coffee farms of Kona lies the Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park. The turquoise waters of the bay are home to coral reefs teeming with tropical fish life, and pelagic creatures like dolphins are known to frequent the bay. Snorkel the brilliant waters or enjoy the stunning sights through a kayak tour of the bay. Onshore, visit the monument to Captain James Cook, the first Westerner to make contact with the Hawaiian Islands in 1778. Cook was killed here in Kealakekua Bay in 1779.

Beaches

Hawaii Island is famous for its black sand beaches, but it also boasts large swaths of golden sand beaches, and even a green sand beach. After you enjoy the soft white sand at the Mauna Lani Beach Club, venture out to Hapuna Beach State Park, just 10 minutes north of Mauna Lani. A half mile stretch of golden sand, Hapuna has a frequent shore break that makes boogie boarding, body surfing and skim boarding fun for the whole family. Or, if the lure of one of the world’s only green sand beaches is calling to you, pack up the car and head down to the Kau district near South Point. Expect to spend a full day exploring Kau and the Olavine-rich shores that create Papakolea’s unique olive green sands.