The heart of the state, the island of Hawaii is the largest and most geographically varied, from stunning snow-capped volcanoes to lush tropical rainforests. Soft breezes scented with salt and frangipani waft across black sand beaches along seas teeming with turtles, dolphins and (in season) whales. The Big Island’s size and diversity make it an ideal vacation choice for both relaxation and adventure.
“It’s truly paradise,” says Destination Manager Sean, “and our home is the perfect base for enjoying the best of the island.” Here are his suggestions for the perfect three days— but many investors opt to stay a few more to discover more island magic.
Day One: Pick A Beach
The Equity Estates residence is on the famed Kohala Coast, facing the dazzling Pacific. Decompress from your journey and connect with paradise with a relaxing morning on the beach. 49 Black Sand Beach is unique and rustic. Your Local host will pack a picnic so you can enjoy snorkeling and exploring around the tide pools. Just a short drive from the residence, Mauna Kea Beach boasts some of the most beautiful white sands on the island. If you don’t mind a two-hour drive and a 45-minute hike, Papakolea Green Sand Beach is one of only four green sand beaches in the world. It’s remote and rugged but a spectacular place to swim and take photos.
After a day of enjoying nature, continue the spirit of aloha by connecting with the beautiful culture of the island’s people. The Legends of Hawaii Luau show offers a glimpse into old Hawaii, beginning with a hula lesson, live music, and a torch run that’s especially delightful for children. The succulent menu includes a roast pig and assortment of fresh-from-the-ocean seafood, along with tropical cocktails.
Day Two: Choose Your Own Adventure
A catamaran charter is “an absolute must” according to Destination Manager Sean. Paradise Sailing offers a private four-hour morning excursion on the 36’ Kōlea to explore colorful reefs and, with luck, a frolic with dolphins or even spot a humpback whale. This luxurious craft has plenty of shade for an enjoyable lunch plus sunny lounging areas to soak in the sights.
Golfers will definitely want to enjoy a round on one of the Troon managed golf courses at Mauna Lani Resort. Mauna Lani’s South Course is home to Hole #15, one of the most photographed over-the-water golf course holes in the world. Renowned as the former home to the annual Senior Skins Game from 1990 to 2000, the course snakes through the stark, rugged a’a lava of the prehistoric Kaniku lava flow. The challenging South Course offers golfers panoramic views of both rugged mountains as well as calming, beautiful ocean.
If golfing is not your thing, we’ll arrange for an aerial adventure through the lush tree canopy with Kohala Zipline. Nine ziplines, five sky bridges, and a rappel make this the only full canopy zipline tour on Hawaii Island.
After all that activity, you’ve earned a relaxing evening. Let our favorite chef, Lisa Porter, prepare a private feast in the comfort of the residence. Fig jam and blue cheese bruschetta. Poke nachos. Local beet salad with goat cheese and lilikoi vinaigrette. Miso encrusted catch of the day. Macadamia nut tart. Yum. After dessert, relax outside on the lanai and look up into the sky for some of the world’s best stargazing — the perfect ending to a perfect day.
Day Three: Volcanos, Wildlife, Sunsets
There’s a big day ahead, so start off with a hearty breakfast of banana brown butter pancakes at Mai Grill. Then it’s off across the island to Volcano National Park, to wander the lava fields and pay homage to Pele, the volcano goddess who, legend has it, shaped these very islands. Lava is beginning to flow again, which some locals believe is the gods bringing back their blessings.
After completing an exploration of the park, take the southern route for a leisurely drive, stopping at anything that strikes your fancy, be it a shaved ice cart (you simply have to treat yourself to at least one on any trip), a fresh bowl of poke, or some local handicrafts from a roadside stand. The Seahorse Farm near Kona is fascinating for kids and adults, and let us book a reservation for you to see some of the wildlife at Three Ring Ranch, the state’s only fully licensed and accredited exotic animal sanctuary.
Return to Mauna Lani Resort in time to enjoy the sunset at Brown’s Beach House, which Destination Manager Sean considers the best place on the island to watch the sun sink below the waves.
At Home On The Big Island Key with Equity Estates
Ocean-facing and perched on the edge of the first fairway of the stunning Mauna Lani South Course, the Equity Estates residence on the Big Island is reminiscent of a private tropical resort. It’s four bedrooms, five bathrooms and more than 5,000 square feet of total living space. With features that include a detached guest ohana, a private front courtyard, an infinity-edge pool with waterfall spa, and an optional outdoor privacy garden and shower, this place will allow you to get lost in your own private oasis.
Your visit to the Big Island can be the beach vacation you’re dreaming of – whether you want a more laid-back trip or one that’s filled with activity; whether you’re traveling with friends and family or in need of a quiet, couple’s getaway. We can help you make it happen. If you would like more information about investing with Equity Estates, please reach out to our Investor Relations team at 404.445.8501 or tap this link to schedule a call.
