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Visit the lush tropical Puna District
Morning Kalapana
- Ahalanui Park
Kalapana:
The ancient settlement and black sand beaches of Kalapana
which is approximately 40 miles from Volcano House were over run by
lava
flows in 1989. Take Highway 11 down toward Hilo, turn right onto Highway
130
at Kea’au. Pass Pahoa and drive to the end of Highway 130. Then turn
right
onto Highway 137. The newly formed Kalapana beach is a 20 minutes
walk across
the lava field. This beach is good for beach-combing and
enjoying the sun but ocean
conditions are dangerous.
Ahalanui
Park: From Kalapana take the beautiful
coastal road (Hwy 137)
toward Pohoiki. After an approximately 30 minutes drive, you will
arrive at
Ahalanui Hot Spring. This lush 3 acres county park completed with
lifeguards,
picnic table and showers features an Olympic size thermally heated mineral
pond that is situated right on the ocean. This is the perfect spot for a picnic
lunch.
Afternoon Pahoa and Volcano Village
Pahoa: As you leave Ahalanui Park,
continue on Hwy 137 until you reach the
junction with 132. Take Hwy 132 up to Pahoa. Pahoa is a
classic frontier
town with a wild west reputation. Wander through the various shops and
take in the unique culture of this area which many find reminiscent of the
Woodstock era.
Volcano Village: Return your path along 130 until the Keaau junction
with
Hwy 11 and head up the hill to the historic Volcano Village. This
area has
turned into an artist colony and features many art studios where local
artisans display their works. This charming village is located just one mile
before the
entrance to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
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