Hawaii Island lies 2,500 miles west of the United States mainland and is often called “The Big Island” due to its size and to differentiate it from the state as a whole. It’s the largest of eight islands — Niihau, Kauai, O’ahu, Molokai, Lana, Kahoolawe, and Hawaii. Its coastline measures around 750 miles, the fourth-longest coastline in the United States, behind Alaska, Florida, and California.

Hawaii Big Island is home to around 200,000 residents with price homes ranging greatly from $250K to $25M. If you are interested to see what real estate is available, contact Hawaii Luxury Real Estate who has 12 experienced Agents ready to assist find you perfect Hawaii home..

The state has seen triple-digit increases in home sales, in part, by the global pandemic. Silicon Valley ex-pats boosted sales, as executives discovered they could live on an idyllic island, work from home and fly back to the mainland in five hours if needed. When work ends for the day, Hawaii residents still have time to golf, surf, or parasail, among other activities to blow off steam and relax. For nature lovers, here’s another adventurous opportunity, HIKING…

Check out these rare hikes on the Big Island:

Kalopa Native Forest State Park and Recreation Area

This 100-acre state park and recreation area is located on the slopes of Mauna Kea near the town of Honokaa and 15 miles east of Waimea.  This area receives a large amount of rainfall,  so hikers will find themselves amidst a native forest with its mist, rain, and trees to reach out and absorb all the beauty and wonder that nature has to offer. Several trails traverse the space, and a short—just over half a mile—path exists for kids or those who prefer a shorter hike. The longest hike measures six miles and there is a gulch rim hike that hugs the 200 feet deep gulch. There is a long trail for especially for horses and there is a campground that requires a 90 day  advance reservation to stay overnight in a cabin.

Mauna Loa

Mauna Loa translates to “long mountain” and is the world’s largest volcano.The Mauna Loa Observatory is a respected atmospheric research facility at 13,700 ft elevation where the hikes begin.  Hikers have two paths to ascend the peak: a challenging, day-long hike that is 13 miles round-trip and takes all day or the hike that takes 3-5 days over 30+ miles. The shorter of the two begins at the It’s also gradual in elevation, but because most of the hiking takes place on lava fields, it’s harder on your body than the longer route.

The Ka’ohe Game Management Area rises to more than 7,000 feet with a hike that measures seven miles round-trip. It takes hikers to Pu’u Ahumoa.  This trail is near the city of Waikoloa Village.  Here, you’ll find unparalleled views of other peaks and much of the island’s western shore, making it very popular with both residents and tourists.  Living so close to these wonderful hikes can be an advantage.  Adventure is just a few steps away.

Kaūmana Trail

The Kaūmana Trail is a gentle hike that rises 300 feet during its 2.75-mile round-trip trek that takes about an hour and a half.  Hikers can explore old lava flows and lush rainforest on this trail, which once served as a trail for supplies and cattle heading to a ranch that once stood on Mauna Kea. The trail follows a 175-year-old lava flow from Mauna Loa and meanders through an old-growth forest. Hunting is allowed, so dress with bright clothing and stay alert.

Lake Waiau

Lake Waiau is the highest lake on the Big Island, the State of Hawai’i, and the entire Pacific Rim. Its name translates to “swirling water” in Hawaiian.  Legend has it that Lake Waiau was the portal to the spirit world. Hawaiian royalty threw the umbilical cord of their first-born son into the lake to guarantee future success as a chief. Hikers can take a trek to the lake, which measures 1.2 miles round-trip with a rise of 375 feet, or a longer, five-mile hike that takes you to the summit of Mauna Kea. Don’t miss this spectacular hike.

Waimanu Valley

The Waimanu Valley translates to “bird water” or “river of birds” and features 1,000-foot long waterfalls. It’s one of the most challenging places to reach by foot and takes 3 days and 2 nights to navigate. This hike should only be done by strong hikers with an experienced guide. It measures 16 miles round-trip over a rise of 7,000 feet with wet, steep, and rocky terrain with miles of plateau gulches, forests and treacherous switchbacks. Due to its nearly vertical increase, this hike is not for the fainthearted or inexperienced. Additionally, at least 12 streams cross on this vertical mile of elevation rise. Flash floods and rock slides are possible.  Hire an experienced guide who knows the area so you won’t get lost and follow the tricks how to maneuver with extreme care while traversing this amazing hike.

Pu’u’ Wa’awa’a

Atop this inactive, 100,000-year-old cinder cone is nicknamed “Jell-O Mold Hill” because it resembles an upside-down Jell-O mold due to erosion along its sides. Hikers can delight in  the stunning views of the Kona Coast, Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, and Hualālai during the 8 miles with a rise of 1,900 feet. The area has livestock that populate the land, so hikers should close the gates as they pass through. Who knew that as new property owners of Hawaii real estate, you could be so close to such a unique and natural wonder?

Are you itching to experience the hikes at these fantastic locations?

When you’re on the Big Island ready to look for homes on the market, reach out to the team at Hawaii Luxury Real Estate for expert guidance to help you choose the property of your dreams.