FIRST VISIT TO THE BIG ISLAND

[Phoenix Bob]

Finally going to visit the Big Island next month.  Have been on Maui on at least 20 separate occasions, so thought it's about time to take a look at Maui's big neighbor to the south.

Will be staying on the Kona coast, but have no problem traveling to other island locations in search of botanical gardens (and especially palm displays) that local residents think are worthwhile. Any and all suggestions would be greatly appreciated.  Learning of  other sites (not necessarily palm-related) that are worth visiting would certainly be appreciated,

Thanks!

 

Phoenix Bob

 

 

 

 

 

[Chatta]

I just went!!  I stayed on the Hilo side, check out my thread for some pictures, I went to World Botanical Adventures and Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, both were incredibly beautiful. I stayed at a really nice air bnb with a sweet garden so i also spent a lot of time just seed collecting in the acer jungle i was at. Not a local, but thought I'd share with you my experience from October. I absolutely love hawaii, the people there are so nice and the weather is jus unbelievable on both sides. I really hope I can move out there one day

[Hilo Jason]

Make sure to check out the Hilo Zoo. Admission is free (donations are very appreciated). The palm society has planted many palms there over the years and lots of other great plants as well. 

[Phoenix Bob]

Hilo Jason & Chatta,

Thanks for the info!