The Story

Hawai‘i wasn’t part of the plan. It was a feeling — one that hit somewhere between a cold Seattle night and a few well-earned beers after an Alaskan cruise. I was supposed to fly home. Instead, I swapped my ticket, bought a few shirts, and boarded a plane to Kona.

From the moment I landed on the Big Island, I knew the detour was the right one. Lava fields stretched in every direction. The air was warm, thick with ocean and openness. I checked into Hualalai just in time for dinner and my first sunset — live music playing, the Pacific turning gold. That set the tone.

The days that followed were a mix of adventure and stillness. I snorkeled with manta rays under moonlight, wandered coffee farms in Holualoa, and soared above volcanoes on a helicopter tour that made the world below look like a storybook. I played one of my best rounds of golf ever, shared a hometown laugh with a waiter from Metro Detroit, and sat poolside for long stretches doing nothing but breathing it all in.

This wasn’t a trip about landmarks or lists. It was about moments — the kind that catch you off guard and stay with you longer than you expect. Hawai‘i didn’t just surprise me. It slowed me down in the best way. And in that stillness, something new began.

What you’ll read below is the story behind the adventure. To read the DES ratings post, click here.

Arrival in Kona

The moment I landed in Kona, I knew I had made the right choice. The landscape was stunning, with lava stretching as far as the eye could see. I arrived at my resort in Hualalai around 4:30 pm, giving me just enough time to settle into my room, enjoy a nice dinner, and witness my first Hawaiian sunset.

Friday: Exploring the Island and Night Snorkeling

Following my first night, I decided to plan out the upcoming week the next morning. The only activities I had scheduled were a 12-hour excursion on Monday, July 3, 2023, and a nine-hole practice round at the Hualalai Golf Course on Saturday. Upon waking up on Friday, I opted to rent a car for the day, allowing me the freedom to explore on my own. In the evening, I had booked a night snorkeling experience with manta rays near Manta Point, leaving me with the entire afternoon to discover more of the island.

After some quick online searches, I stumbled upon the Heavenly Hawaii Coffee Farm and decided to embark on a tour. The 45-minute drive to Holualoa, located south-southwest of the Hualalai resort, provided me with ample time to daydream and admire the breathtaking landscape around me. As I made a left turn, the journey took an interesting turn. As anyone familiar with Hawaii knows, the mountain roads can be narrow, making maneuvering around the winding and rugged terrain a bit challenging. Fortunately, I encountered no oncoming traffic on my way up.

Upon reaching the farm, I was captivated by the expansive and picturesque surroundings. Established as a family-owned venture since 1994, the farm held a significant place in Hawaii's agricultural history. During a later 12-hour excursion, I discovered that in the early 1980s, coffee farming emerged as a vital industry following the decline of sugar cane plantations. It has since become one of the island's primary crops, reflecting the resilience and adaptability of local farmers.

The farm is nestled in the heart of the Kona Coffee growing region in Hawaii, where the tradition of 100% Kona Coffee began. The title "100% Kona Coffee" holds immense significance for these dedicated farmers—it's a symbol of pride and quality that they wear with honor. During the coffee farm tour, we delved into the intricate process of coffee cultivation, discovering that a mere 4,000 beans from a single plant translate to just 1-2 pounds of coffee beans. Witnessing how they extract these precious beans and savoring a cup of their freshly brewed coffee was a delightful and educational experience, particularly for someone new to the world of coffee.

Later that evening, I embarked on a thrilling two-and-a-half-hour night snorkeling tour with manta rays. Our destination was Manta Point near Captain Cook, where we geared up and plunged into the water. The encounter was nothing short of exhilarating as we found ourselves mere inches away from these graceful giants as they fed. The setup was simple yet effective—an illuminated surfboard served as a platform for the lights. Floating in the water and admiring these magnificent creatures up close was both awe-inspiring and humbling. Remembering the instructions not to touch the manta rays, the rush of adrenaline was palpable as one soared towards us, gracefully performing acrobatics under the board while feasting on plankton. It felt like time stood still as we spent what seemed like an eternity watching these enchanting beings in their natural element. Indeed, it was a magical conclusion to my first full day in Hawaii.

Saturday: Golf at Hualalai and First Sunset Dinner

After an exciting Friday night by the water, I headed to the golf course on Saturday. I experienced some of the finest golf I have ever played. The lesson with one of the golf pros was excellent, and the on-course instruction was exactly what I had hoped for—sharp, practical advice that helped hone my course management skills. Starting a round with par-par-par-bogey-par was a first for me, especially considering my 29 handicap at the time. Without question, it was one of the most enjoyable days I’ve had on a golf course.

That afternoon, I wandered the resort grounds, soaking in the easy rhythm of island life.

As evening approached, I made my way to the Beach Tree Restaurant for my first Hawaiian sunset dinner. The setting was pure magic. Live music drifted through the warm ocean air, and just as the sun began to sink into the Pacific, the band launched into Here Comes the Sun by The Beatles—a perfect soundtrack to the moment.

I grabbed a seat by the water, ordered some local beer and fresh island fare, and simply took it all in. The scene was effortless, full of good energy and a golden light that made it feel like the world had paused just long enough to let you breathe it all in.

It was one of those rare nights where everything—the music, the view, the food, the feeling—came together just right.

Monday, July 3: Big Island Backroad Adventure

On Monday, July 3, the day began early as I embarked on a fascinating 12-hour excursion across the enchanting Big Island with my knowledgeable guide, Shawn McCurdy from Big Island Backroad Adventures. Setting off in Shawn's reliable Toyota pick-up truck, anticipation filled the air as we delved into the remarkable landscapes and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Shawn's deep understanding of the island's ecosystem was evident as he imparted valuable insights, unveiling the intricate details of the island's formation, from the mesmerizing lava formations to the unique microclimates that have sculpted the island's identity over millennia.

During our journey, Shawn weaved captivating tales of history and culture, one of which centered around the legendary British explorer, Captain James Cook, whose expeditions brought him to the Hawaiian Islands in the 18th century. As we traversed the picturesque Kealakekua Bay, Shawn recounted the events that transpired at the Captain Cook monument, a poignant reminder of a fateful encounter that forever altered the course of history.

The story unfolded with the arrival of Captain Cook during the sacred makahiki festival, where the Hawaiians, mistaking him for a deity, welcomed him with reverence and hospitality. Amidst the festivities that included gifts, ceremonies, and cultural exchanges, a series of misunderstandings arose, culminating in a tragic event that claimed the lives of Cook and several others. The once jubilant bay became a somber site, marked by the Captain Cook monument, standing as a silent witness to the clash of cultures and the complexities of human interaction.

As we concluded our expedition, the echoes of history lingered in the air, underscoring the importance of cultural understanding and respect in our explorations of the world. Shawn's narratives had not only illuminated the past but also instilled in me a profound appreciation for the rich tapestry of stories that lie beneath the surface of every destination. Our adventure across the Big Island had not only been a journey through breathtaking landscapes but also a voyage through time, where the past intertwined with the present, shaping our perceptions and enriching our experiences in ways both profound and enduring.

July 4th: Helicopter Tour and Independence Day Celebration

On the Fourth of July, the breathtaking beauty of the Big Island of Hawaii unfolded beneath me during a mesmerizing helicopter tour by Paradise Adventures. As we soared along the circumference of the island, the diverse landscapes came into view, offering a unique perspective of this majestic destination. From the rugged coastal shoreline to the towering volcanoes, active lava flows, and lush eucalyptus forests, every moment was a captivating visual feast.

The Big Island of Hawaii, also known as Hawaii Island, holds a rich agricultural history that has evolved over time. Traditional Hawaiian farming practices, such as terrace farming and aquaculture systems, sustained the native population for centuries. With the arrival of Europeans in the late 18th century, sugarcane plantations became dominant, significantly shaping the island's economy and landscape. Today, agriculture on the Big Island has diversified to include crops like coffee, macadamia nuts, and tropical fruits, catering to both local consumption and global markets. Amidst this evolution, efforts to embrace sustainable farming practices and preserve the island's unique ecosystem have gained momentum, reflecting a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation.

After a breathtaking helicopter tour, I unwound at the resort, embracing the serene atmosphere before getting ready for the highly anticipated Fourth of July dinner. The event was nothing short of spectacular – a lavish buffet spread with delectable dishes, an open bar serving a variety of drinks, and live music that set the perfect tone as the sun began its descent over the horizon.

As twilight enveloped the sky, I found myself savoring every moment of the evening, surrounded by laughter and joy in the warm summer air. The highlight of the night was undoubtedly the dazzling firework show that illuminated the darkness with a kaleidoscope of colors and patterns. The five-minute spectacle was a mesmerizing display, featuring an array of firework styles that lit up the night sky in a symphony of lights.

And then came the grand finale – a crescendo of massive booms and cascading fireworks that painted the heavens with a breathtaking finale. It was a fitting end to a magical evening, leaving us in awe of the beauty and wonder that fireworks bring, a perfect celebration of a memorable Fourth of July.

Final Days: Relaxation and New Connections

The final two days at the resort were a much-needed retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. As the warm Hawaiian sun painted the sky in hues of orange and pink, I found solace in simply soaking in the beauty around me. One unexpected highlight of this relaxing interlude was striking up a conversation with Michael, one of the friendly waiters at the resort. To my surprise, we discovered we both hailed from the same area in Metro Detroit. It was a delightful coincidence to meet a fellow Michigander amidst the stunning backdrop of Hawaii.

Bonding over stories from back home, I spent my time basking in the serenity of the resort. Whether lounging by the crystal-clear pool, strolling through the lush tropical grounds, or unwinding on the pristine beach, each moment felt like a sweet escape from reality. The sound of the waves crashing against the shore and the gentle rustle of palm trees overhead created a tranquil atmosphere that melted away any lingering stress. Those final two days were a peaceful blend of newfound connections, breathtaking views, and a deep sense of contentment that would linger in my memories long after leaving the island.

Until the next adventure.

— Jay

Destination Experience Rating: 93 | A Place That Lives for the Light

Hawaii wasn’t just a destination—it was a turning point. What started as a spontaneous flight turned into a slow, rich unraveling of experiences: lava-lined coastlines, deep cultural history, and once-in-a-lifetime moments like floating with manta rays or watching fireworks over the Pacific. It was exploration in its purest form—unscripted, unscheduled, and unforgettable.