Big Island Hawaii, The Ideal Vacation Spot For The Family

Hawaii's Big Island is known to be the place to be when getting married or going on a honeymoon. Its picturesque beauty and numerous recreational activities seem to be fit for couples who are off to bond with each other. The cool atmosphere coupled with the beauty of the place and the serenity the waves create in the senses makes it a natural birthplace of romance. But contrary to popular belief, Hawaii's Big Island is also an ideal place for a family vacation! Listed below are the top 5 activities family can do when vacationing on the Big Island of Hawaii.

1. Spend family day picnicking at Spencer Beach Park

One of the most visited places by families in the Big Island of Hawaii, Spencer Beach Park is ideal for swimming even for children because of its calm waters. This is due to the protection offered by an outside reef making it safe for children to swim and snorkel on. Spencer Beach Park offers shaded grassy area with tables and pavilions. Barbeque grills are also provided for cooking lunch. One of the main reasons also why Spencer Beach Park is a family hang out is its proximity to the Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site.

2. Visit Parker Ranch

What kind of kid doesn't like cowboys? Here at Parker Ranch your kid can experience and learn how it is to live a life of a cowboy. Learn about the history and the day to day life of cowboys in the old Hawaii.

3. Learn about Astronomy in Imiloa Astronomy Center

Aside from being a cowboy, kids are fascinated about the galaxy. Let your kids enjoy and learn at the same time in the Imiloa Astronomy Center's colorful and educational exhibits. This planetarium also provides a great view of the Hilo Bay as it is located in the University of Hawaii-Hilo. The Imiloa Astronomy Center provides its visitors a fun filled day as it explains the connection between Hawaiian culture and Astronomy.

4. Take your kids stargazing at the Ellison S. Onizuka Center for International Astronomy

Mauna Kea, being the highest mountain in the sea, provides a great view of the skies to its visitors. This is the reason why the Ellison S. Onizuka Center for International Astronomy has been erected on its top. Named after the great astronaut, Kona native Ellison S. Onizuka, this place will give your kids first hand experience on the science of Astronomy after learning about it in the Imiloa Astronomy Center.

5. Be adventurous and see a live active volcano at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is home to Kilauea and Mauna Loa, two active volcanoes in Big Island Hawaii. Mauna Loa is an active volcano and it has last erupted last 1984 while Kilauea has been erupting since 1983 and has never stopped ever since. Because of this, it is also called as "the world's only drive in volcano." Its visitors are treated to a sight to behold as this volcano wrecks lava daily and on an average of 250,000-650,000 cubic yards. Because of this great lava deposit, new land has been added to the Big Island of Hawaii. But seeing a live volcano vomit lava is not the only attraction of this place. It also boasts of tours and museums that can further enrich the experience for your children.