Linda's Guide to the Big Island:

Driving Around the Island

When leaving the Hilo/Puna/volcano area for the Kona/Kohala side of the island, drive north out of Hilo along Hwy 19. Stop for a visit to the Hawai’i Tropical Botanical Garden. Then continue north stopping at scenic outlooks along the way. A mile or two north of the gardens and south of Honoka’a we found the best roadside café and souvenir shop called What’s Shakin. All tables were outdoors under an awning and they had good smoothies and the best nachos I had on the island. I swear whoever made their salsa hailed from Texas! Continue through Waimea to Kawaihae. At Kawaihae, turn south (left) to continue on Hwy 19 which at this point is the Queen Kaahumanu Hwy, which goes along the Kohala coast and where you will find the major resorts, as well as, some of the very best beaches in the world.

Southpoint

Black Sand Beaches

Hilo Town

North of Hilo

Botanical Gardens

Puna District

Volcano

Kona Coffee

Drive Hilo to Kona

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