The world's most active volcano, Kilauea, is on dramatic display at Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. Sometimes you can walk right up to a red hot river of lava. High above the heat, Mauna Kea is often mantled in snow. Ski its white flanks and be back to the beach in time for a swim. Bigger than all the other major islands combined, this one has deserts, jungle, ranches and rainforest.
Orchids grow by the acre and the coffee is ranked premium gourmet.
Hawaiian royalty once sojourned here, seeking rejuvenation and spiritual renewal. The ancient temples are among the best preserved and restored in the islands. Their powerful spiritual presence still inspires travelers. So does fine dining. Shop for Hawaiian antiques and repros in pretty Kailua-Kona town or up in the cowboy mecca of Waimea.