Big Island of Hawaii Vacation Rentals - Puako and Wailea Bay
Waimea,
a 20 minute drive to the upcountry is a whole other world. With a 2500 ft. elevation
I would suggest bringing a sweater as the climate can change dramatically from
the warm dry of Puako to the fresh cool "mountain", sometimes wet
and windy of Waimea! There are some fine restaurants in Waimea. Merriman's and
Edelweiss to name a few. The Parker Ranch Grill almost always has their fireplaces
lit! Lovely shops in Waimea and galleries worth seeing.
To Hawi, in North Kohala, is a great day trip. Going along the coast road there are historical sites along the way and when you get to the towns you get a glimpse of old Hawaii. The tropical air is wonderful. At the end of the road is Pololu Valley and is a breath taking view as well as a breath taking hike!! For spectacular scenery be sure to take the "mountain road" back to Puako. This road winds along the Kohala Mountains and what a feast for the eyes! This road connects to the highway back to Puako just west of Waimea.
Enjoy!