riving north west on Hwy. #19 just out side of Hilo you will begin to travel along the Hamakua Coast. Watch for the "4 mile scenic drive" sign on the right, if you have the time you will enjoy the drive and you may wish to stop at the Botanical Gardens on the left if it's a nice day. Next, heads up for Akaka Falls, (left turn at sign) no trip is complete without seeing these beautiful falls, takes about 1 hour. Waipio Valley look out is our next suggestion. If you are a hardy, really in shape person you will enjoy the hike down the trail to the valley floor. 15 min. down, 45 min. up for the return. Also Jackie Horn has a special B&B called Waipio Wayside along the way. Waipio Valley has a neat beach but a strong south to north rip most of the time. (Have fun) but be careful if you go out. There are two stables in the valley for horse back riding, very special. Jonathan Smith takes people down, in his big Ford 4x4, into the valley and fords the rivers and up Mauna Kea for an evening in the stars on weekend day trip, real Indiana Jones excitement. (call Jon, 808-334-1387). Waipio Valley is your chance to turn back the clock to Old Hawai'i.

Kohala is the old part of the Island of Hawaii, the land of sugar cane and the site of the second statue of King Kamahamaha. A place where time has stopped for many years. Windy Upolu Point, beautiful views, some historical digs, Islands largest heiau and beautiful Hapuna Beach Park, one of the finest beaches in the world. Top ten by Conde Nest.