Local Attractions

Manuka State Park - This park is just four miles north on route 11. It is a most unusual park in that it was once a privately owned botanical garden with over 150 species of trees. This makes it an attraction for birds which may not otherwise frequent this area. Birds more easily seen here, than at Leilani Bed & Breakfast, include the Hawaiian species of 'amakihi, 'elapaio and the 'apapane. This is a delightful place to take an easy hike and to picnic as well. For more information on Manuka State Park and birding in Hawaii, go to www.birdinghawaii.co.uk/WELCOMEPAGE.htm .

Kula Kai Caverns - Only 2 miles away, Kula Kai Caverns offers a spectacular adventure inside several miles of braided lava tube systems over 1000 years old. Ongoing research is providing a greater insight of the earth's evolving nature. These tours offer a one-of-a-kind opportunity to see subterranean environments of breathtaking beauty. Call 808-929-7539 for more information.

Southpoint - The southern most point of the USA! - This magnificent point was formed by 5 separate volcanoes: Kohala, Hualalai, Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, and Kilauea. Most visitors stop at the viewpoint on Highway 11, trying to get a glimpse of Southpoint. Approximately 15 miles in the distance from there, it is difficult to see even on a clear day. Guest of the Leilani Bed & Breakfast can be more leisurely and take that side trip down to the point, see the magnificent coastline, get a view of a local fishing technique using "kites", and be able to say they were actually at the southern most point of the USA.

Green Sands Beach - When down at Southpoint, the sparkling Green Sand Beach is only 2-1/4 miles to the east of the parking lot near the boat launch. Most people walk to the beach. Some drive a 4WD vehicle. The beach is an anomaly with crystals of olivine and a fascinating place to visit and have a swim.

Kahuku Section of Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park - At mile marker 70.5, this is the new acquisition of the national park, more than doubling its total size. It is currently open on a limited basis for special events. Soon, their will be new hiking trails open year round. For up-to-date information on this section and a schedule of events, go to www.nps.gov/havo/home.htm.

Black Sand Beach - At the 56 mile marker on Highway 11, about 25 minutes away, is Punalu'u Black Sand Beach. This is the easiest to access of the black sand beaches. It is frequented by sea turtles feeding on the limu that clings to the rocks in the bay. They are often seen "taking a rest" on the beach. Visitors are asked to please not approach them in the water or on the beach and give them their space.

The Main Section of Volcanoes National Park - This section of the park is located at mile marker 28.5, just less than 50 miles from Leilani Bed & Breakfast. It is the most famous attraction on the island. With two active volcanoes, and lava periodically being produced since 1983, it is creating the newest "real estate" in the country. Any active volcanic activity can be difficult for the visitor to see without a long hike or a fly over adventure tour, which we can assist in planning. There are, however, a lot of other wonderful features of this grand park which many visitors don't take the time to explore as they breeze through the park. For travelers who want a vacation base, or for those circumnavigating the island, the Leilani Bed & Breakfast is situated conveniently for a multiple day visit to the park, if desired, and to these other attractions as well. For more information on the park, go to www.nps.gov/havo/home.htm.

Road to the Sea - For those who rent a 4WD vehicle to see the island, Road to the Sea is a great trip. At mile marker 79.3 is a 6 mile long dirt road leading to two beaches. You can often have these beaches all to yourself, as a result. These black and green sand beaches are at the edge of a 250 year old lava flow, rendering the area seemingly raw and lifeless, yet alluring. There is some shade at the back part of the northern of the two beaches. This beach also has a fresh water pool.

Miloli'i Beach Park - This is an uncrowded beach to visit on a weekday. On the weekend, it is pretty much taken over with the activities of the local people. There is not a lot of sand, but the facilities are good. There is a winding road down to the beach from mile marker 89 on Highway 11, just 11 miles north of Leilani Bed & Breakfast.

Honomalino Bay - On a crowded day there are only a few people on Honomalino Beach. It is a 20 minute walk from parking, at the end of the Miloli'i Beach road. The beach is only about 100 yards long, but is lined with coconut palm trees.

Ho'okena Beach - This is a pretty black and white sand beach with picnic tables and shade trees. There is good snorkeling off to the left. The yellow billed cardinal, looking strikingly like a red headed bird wearing a tuxedo, will surely visit your site. This is a bout a half hour ride from Leilani Bed & Breakfast, with the turnoff road from Highway 11 at mile marker 101.5.

Place of Refuge - This is a popular place for tourists because of its historical and archeological significance. There are structures, walls and petroglyphs to view. In ancient times, under the kapu system, commoners could escape penalty of violations (usually death by some means) if they could get themselves to this place before being captured. This is a very superficial description, so those interested should consult a good reference book. Also, the snorkeling and scuba diving here are said to be some of the best in the state when the conditions are good. It is a great spot for sunset picnics with lots of palm trees and barbeque facilities.

Hilo and Kona - The two major cities on the island, with all their individual attractions, are only 1-1/4 and 1 hour away respectively, in opposite directions.

Activities

Weddings - The Big Island of Hawaii is a wonderful place to get married. With all the energy of new land being created daily from the lava flow, it is a great place for new beginnings. At the Leilani Bed & Breakfast you could have a truly magnificent, adventurous, and romantic wedding in one of our huge lava tubes. The grand entrance is graded flat, open to the sky, full of light, and surrounded on 3 sides with lava walls hosting beautiful orchids. For your complete wedding arrangements here, or anywhere else on the island, contact www.weddingsalaheart.com or call Libby Kelson-Fulcher, D.D. at 808-322-3322. They cater to your every need in creating your personalized wedding.