Overview
Defined by fiery volcanoes, snowcapped mountains, dripping rain forests, sun-drenched beaches, cascading waterfalls, and lava-strewn plains, the Big Island is known for its diversity. More than twice the size of all the other Hawaiian Islands combined, it is home to less than 16o,ooo residents, less than 13 percent of the state's population.In verdant Rib, rainbows illuminate a chaos of orchids and other tropical blooms-hence the Big Island's nickname "The Orchid Isle." Tropical gardens neighbor calm Rib Bay, where historic Hilo town serves as the county seat and hosts the famous Merrie Monarch hula festival.
Red-hot lava pulsing forth from Kilauea Volcano and steep ocean cliffs give Puna its dramatic ambiance. Since 1983, more than 540 new acres of land have been formed, but several towns were completely destroyed.
Isolated Ka'u spans the windswept southwestern plains from the summit of 13,677- foot Mauna Loa to Ka Lae, the Big Island's most southern point. Roads with panoramic views lead to Punalu'u's black sand shore, where green sea turtles reside, and a rare green sand beach.
Coffee orchards thrive in Kona, in the lee of the volcano Hualalai. The district includes the sacred grounds of Pu'uhonua o Honaunau, the marine sanctuary of Kealakekua Bay, and Kahalu'u, one of the Island's best snorkeling sites. At its center lies the bustling town of Kailua-Kona, where royal history blends with tourism and famed seashore sports events.
The rural northwestern side, Kohala, includes the rolling pasture lands of Parker Ranch, which slope down to emerald golf courses and beachfront resorts. The statue of King Kamehameha gazes over the spruced-up sugar towns of Hawi and Kapa'au.
Waipi'o Valley, in Hamakua, reaches six miles inland, its taro patches shaded by near-perpendicular cliffs. Far above, astronomers probe unobstructed skies from the 13,796-foot peak of Mauna Kea, the Island's most sacred site.
Discover the Big Island in all its splendid colors through rainbow-hued mists and across eruptive volcanoes, from mountain vistas to ocean sunsets, all days of the year.
About the Photographer
Kirk Lee Aeder first journeyed to the island of Hawai'i in 1969 when, at ten years old, he captured images of Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park with his camera. Aeder moved to Maui in 1985, attracted to the popularity of windsurfing, and then to the Big Island in 1993. He has since devoted much of his time capturing the beauty and mystique of one of the most diverse locations in the world. Aeder is presently one of the most respected sports and scenic photographers in Hawai'i and has been published in prestigious publications around the world.