When you're looking for Big Island activities to try around Honokaa, it is important that you keep in mind that you will need to drive a bit from your Honokaa Inn because of the island's big size. The name Big Island is not just a name, it is a reality. The top family-friendly Big Island activities to try during your stay are hiking and photographing at the Akaka Falls State Park, watching and petting animals at the Panaewa Rainforest Zoo, and biking around the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
The Akaka Falls State Park is at the top of any list of Big Island activities, because not only is it budget friendly, but it also allows you to experience a natural, untouched tropical forest reservation. It is a good idea to bring a digital camera to this state park so that you can capture great images of the local flora and fauna, as well of the 400 foot (about 120 meters) tall Akaka Falls. At this park you will have the choice of two paths. It is a good idea to take the longer one (the shorter one takes you directly to the Akaka Falls) because it will provide more opportunities to see local animals and take better photographs. Keep your children close and watch out for slippery surfaces on rainy days.
Located an hour's drive from any Honokaa Bed and Breakfast, the Panaewa Rainforest Zoo is the only place in the Hawaiian Islands where you can watch a live white tiger. Namaste, the white tiger, lives in a large enclosure that mimics his natural environment and has everything that he needs, such as a lily pond to refresh himself on hot days. Time your visit around 3:30 p.m. so that you can take photographs during his daily feeding time. Every Saturday the Hilo Zoo (another name for this zoo) holds a petting zoo, where children can interact with local animals such as nene (Hawaiian geese) and goats. During your visit, you will run into the peacocks that freely walk around the zoo grounds.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Crater Rim Dr
Hawaii National Park, HI 96718
(808) 985-6000
www.national-park.com