Spend a morning or late afternoon learning the Paniolo, or Hawaiian cowboy ways. A large part of the Big Island lifestyle, horseback riding offers a cultural experience through scenic storytelling tours. Visitors may choose from a variety of riding environments such as the upcountry pastures of Kahua Ranch, the tropical beauty of Waipio Valley, or the historic trail to Kealakekua Bay.
Every year, an estimated 10,000 whales trek 3,000 miles from Alaska between November to early May to breed in the warm waters of the Big Island. You can spot them from shore, hear them under water, or see them up-close by boat. If you’re lucky, you may be serenaded by a whale song while snorkeling or swimming.
Small groups looking for a big adventure will be treated to panoramic views of Hawaii Volcanoes, dramatic views of volcanic activity, lush tropical rainforests, waterfalls and exotic black sand beaches. Guests of the Naniloa Hotel have direct boarding access to the tours from our ocean pier. Contact Kapohokine Adventures for more information.
Encountering the mysterious manta ray is an experience of a lifetime. As one of the largest fish in the ocean with wingspans as large as 20 feet, manta rays frequent areas where plankton is found. The best way to see these beauties are at night, by boat tour, just north of Kailua-Kona.
Only a 10-minute drive from the Naniloa, the ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center merges Hawaii’s past with today’s modern technology. Located just above the University of Hawaii, Hilo, the center spans 40,000 square feet of planetarium and exhibition space with more than 100 displays presented in both English and Hawaiian. Learn about Hawaiian voyaging canoes, explore the origins of the cosmos and immerse yourself between earth and sky. Open Tuesday – Sunday, 9am – 5pm.