Puna

Going Back in time, Black Sand Beach, Hot Spirngs, Lush Rain Forests and Lava Tree State Park on the so. end of the Chain of Craters Rd. Pahoa town retains it's funky, rural charm. The Kumukahi Lighthouse is still in operation. And the volcanic natural hot spring was still available with my last information. Between Volcano and Hilo as you travel south on Hwy. #11 you will find the cut off at Keaau to go to Pahoa in the Puna District. Puna retains it's funky, down-at-the-heels rural artist charm. You will drive thru a lush rainforest to discover the barren rock lava of the Kalapana Area. The town of Kalapana was destroyed by the 1990 lava flows. It is also the other end of the Chain of Craters Road going back to the Volcano. There are hot springs to soak in, a black sand beach and some nice B&B's like Pearl's Shell for a good nights sleep. The old Kumukahi Lighthouse, still in operation is a special attraction, it had lava just flow around it. Also Lava Tree State Park, a volcanic landmark, is located on Hwy. #132. Well worth the time if you would like to see a little of Old Hawaii. Puna is just 27 miles from Hilo and it is a very nice tropical drive. Visit the Lava Tree State Monument, where you can see the aftereffects of lava on ohia trees; the Kapoho tidepools, some of which are deep enough for snorkeling; and the Mackenzie State Recreational area, which still maintains an old Hawaiian coastal trail.

Panaewa Zoo-In a rainforest, with tropical and rainforest animals. Listen to the parrot imitate its owl neighbor. This little excursion will take about an hour and for some will be a highlight to remember. Take a rain parka, just in case, or an umbrella. All who enjoy animals and would like to see some Hawaii animals should take the time to stop by, you will be glad that you did. The free roaming peacocks love bread scraps but don't tell any one I told you. Look for the sign on the left side of the highway between Puna and Hilo.