"ACTIVITIES" are often confused and combined
with "ATTRACTIONS." Sometimes there's a large amount of overlap as both
are large parts of the "eco-tourism" movement that emphasizes educational or
adventure tourism vs. the more traditional sedimentary "sun, relax, and recover"
type of tourism. In my youth in the late 1940's and early 1950's, Hawaiian tourism was
very different. Then only the very wealthy could come to Hawaii and in those days,
most visitors were comfortable grandparents.
Today, jet planes make a Hawaiian vacation more affordable for more people, visitors are
far younger and travelling with their children, and are seeking out more active
unique experiences or memories. In this context, "ATTRACTIONS" are
facilities that stay in one place that are usually open to promote, preserve, or educate
on a specific theme. Fuku-Bonsai Cultural Center is therefore and attraction even
thought we also offer bonsai workshops which could be considered an activity. The
major Big Island attraction is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. (See: Big Island Attractions)
In contrast, "ACTIVITIES" are things to do and the Big Island has the greatest
number of such activities that include deep see big game fishing, shoreline fishing, or
even mountain lake fishing! On the water, go snorkeling, swim at night with the
manta rays, go for a sunset dinner cruise, ride submarines or glass bottom boats, go
parasailing, raft through sea caves or go deep sea diving. In the air, take fixed wing
small plane flights to see a Hawaii that has all of the features of a mini-continent, or
board a helicopter to hover over molten lava flows that can follow the lava river from the
vent to the dramatic steam clouds as it reaches the sea!
On land, there's a lot more choices with new adventures being added each year. Ride
horses, wagons, bikes, tour vans, 4-wheel drives, ATVs on scenic tours, to the summit of
Mauna Kea, to Waipio Valley, or the hidden places of Hawaii. Hike through
waterfalls, lava tubes, or on the King's Trail. Attend a luau and learn a facet of
Polynesian and the multi-culture that is Hawaii!
There are many recreational and competitive activities from the world-famous Ironman
Triathlon, tennis, or the full range of modest to spectacular golf courses! The Big
Island is the eco-tourism Hawaii! The following is a listing of some of the places
to begin as you plan your next Big Island vacation. Once you are on the island,
further inquire with the concierge, activity desk, or your accommodations representative.
Many of us who are committed to creating the finest possible sustainable visitor industry
frown upon and will not refer to tourist traps.
