Ka‘ū Ka‘ū, hiehie I ka makani. (Ka‘ū, regal in the gales.) An expression of admiration for the district of Ka‘ū, Hawai‘i or for a stately or outstanding person of that district. ‘Ōlelo No‘eau #1605 An untapped treasure, with a stunning black sand beach, a coffee mill, breath- taking volcanic landscapes and a welcom- ing community that embodies the island’s rich history. Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park Established in 1916 and spanning 354,461 acres, Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park is Hawai‘i Island’s most popular attraction. The park encompasses the summits and rift zones of two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kīlauea and Maunaloa. The park is an International Biosphere Reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Adventure and education abound throughout Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. This journey for the soul reawakens our minds to the ever-changing, powerful and humbling processes of our dynamic planet. Today, the park displays the results of millions of years of volcanic activity and centuries of Hawaiian culture. Home to native plants and animals, as well as the revered Pelehonuamea, goddess of fire, the park invites visitors to explore its wonders. Visiting an active volcano is an exciting experience, but it’s important to follow the directions of park rangers and all posted signs. Volcanic activity is unpredictable, so viewing opportunities and locations may change at any time. Always check with the Kīlauea Visitor Center for current activity and safety information before exploring. You can also learn more at nps.gov/havo/ planyourvisit/index.htm. Volcano Winery Since 1993, Volcano Winery has been crafting award-winning wines on the slopes of Kīlauea, making it the southernmost winery in the United States. Their unique blends feature exotic local ingredients such as yellow guava and jaboticaba, alongside traditional grape varietals. Visitors can enjoy tastings of these one-of-a-kind libations and browse the gift shop for “winetastic” souvenirs, including bottles exclusive to the winery. Open daily for tours and tastings. volcanowinery.com Ka‘ū Coffee Mill Ka‘ū Coffee Mill is a grower and producer of coffee with a farm spanning 100 acres. The mill provides a full range of services from pulping to roasting for local farmers. A visitor center and retail store are located at the mill and are open daily, except holidays. Tours are provided for anyone interested in learning more about the coffee industry. kaucoffeemill.com Punalu‘u Black Sand Beach When molten lava reaches the cool water of the ocean, it shatters into tiny pieces and becomes black sand. Many culturally and historically significant sites can be found here, as well as ki‘i pōhaku (petroglyphs), native animals such as the endangered ‘ea (hawksbill turtle), threatened honu (green sea turtle), endangered ‘ōpe‘ape‘a (Hawaiian hoary bat) and ‘io (Hawaiian hawk). Punalu‘u Bake Shop Home of the world-famous Punalu‘u sweetbread. This landmark bakery in the KALUAPELE-SUMMIT CRATER OF KĪLAUEA USGS | M. PATRICK quaint town of Nā‘ālehu has a large gift shop featuring all of their delicious treats as well as collectible gifts and souvenirs. Enjoy a lunch by the fish pond in their tropical gardens, or pick up your favorites to go. punaluubakeshop.com Kahuku Unit Located on the shoulders of Maunaloa and part of Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, this 116,000-acre hidden gem offers a variety of day hikes with scenic views and relics of Kahuku’s cattle ranching era. The entrance to the Kahuku Unit is located in Ka‘ū, near mile marker 70.5 on Highway 11, a one-hour drive from Kīlauea Visitor Center. Please check the park website for hours of operation. Manukā State Wayside Park Part of the Manukā Natural Area Reserve, this park is the perfect spot for a picnic lunch with the family or a relaxing stroll. A two-mile loop trail takes you through the park’s arboretum. Experience lava flows from different eruptions, a pit crater (at the top of the trail), cultural sites and native and non- native plants and animals. T he Island of Hawai‘i EXPLORE 34 Experience The Island of Hawai‘i
