Kohala Coast Living

UFO Parasail is the only Kona ultimate parasail ride. They will load you and others in a boat, attach to a towline and parachute, then up you go! They offer single, tandem or triple experiences. The bay water is so clear you'll almost be able to see the ocean floor. www.ufoparasailing.com  

There are at least three island tour boat companies that will take you on an adventure to see what's down under. What you'll see: manta rays, fish, dolphins, turtles, and during the winter time humpback whales. Blue Sea Cruises actually has a special cruise to watch spinner dolphins (known for th...

Take a walk through one (or all) of Hawaii's beautiful botanical gardens. On the west slope of the Kohala Mountains near Kawaihae you'll find Pua Mau Place. Enjoy hundreds of species of flowering plants and trees. Walk through their maze of 250 hibiscus and an aviary of more than 150 exotic birds...

#1. THE PEOPLE. There is a minimum of hustle and bustle here, which results in a casual and relaxed environment.  From the celebrities staying at the Four Seasons to the locals hanging out at the Beach, everyone seems to have a perpetual smile on their face. Johnny McElree johnny@johnnymcelree.co...

#2. THE RESORTS. The Kohala Coast is home to some of the finest resorts in the world. From the exclusiveness of Kukio to the classic old Hawaii charm of the Mauna Kea, to the Mauna Lani and the Waikoloa Beach Resort in between, there is truly something for everyone. Johnny McElree johnny@johnnymc...

3. THE BEACHES. Sprinkled along the Kohala Coast are some of the world's finest beaches. Hapuna Beach near the Mauna Kea is consistently rated among the top 10 beaches in the world. You can also find many secluded and relatively unknown places, such as Beach 69 near Puako.  

#4. THE OCEAN. In most places, the water is relatively shallow here for a great distance from the shore. Couple this with a multitude of reefs and underwater lava formations, and the result is outstanding snorkeling, diving, and swimming.   Johnny McElree johnny@johnnymcelree.com www.johnnymcelre...

#5. GOLF. You could stay here for weeks and never play the same course twice. The signature holes of the resort courses are stunning and are among the most photographed in the world. The Kohala Coast is home to several PGA events, but you also have to dodge the wild turkeys and goats to play at t...

#7. DINING. The Kohala Coast is home to some of the finest restaurants in the world. Of particular note is the Blue Dragon in Kawaihae. Enclosed but open to the stars at night, listen to live music while enjoying unique Hawaiian cuisine. #6. SHOPPING.  Tiffany's to the kiosks of the local artisan...

#9. THE WEATHER. Living here is reminiscent of the movie "Ground Hog Day." Just assume it will be beautiful, and you'll be correct. There is a minimum of rainfall. The temperature variation between summer and winter is much less than that between day and night. #8. THE VOLCANOES.  Simply spectacu...