January 3, 2011

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The Big Island is such a special place, full of natural beauty, classic Hawaiian charm, uncommercialized shores, and a certain mystique. Fondly referred to as “the Big Island” since it’s larger than all of the other Hawaiian Islands combined, the island of Hawaii is home to the world’s most active volcano and the tallest sea mountain on Earth. There’s no other place like it, with its black-sand beaches, turtle-filled waters, world-class diving sites, petroglyph fields, moon-like terrain, active eruptions, amazing fresh fish and produce, and serene pitch-black nights. You’ll either fall in love—or hop the first plane back to the action, nightlife, and more typical tropical surroundings of Oahu. As I was told, the volcano either likes you or it doesn’t. But don’t be fooled by the rustic environment.

Hawaii's Big Island

Peppered throughout the Kohala Coast of the western side of the island, often referred to as “the Gold Coast,” are some of the world’s finest resorts.

Kona Village Resort, an ancient fishing village turned into a beach paradise, offers the most authentic Polynesian experience. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time with these 82 thatched-roof beach bungalows called hales that are perched on the sand or tucked into the lava fields. While a road now exists, the only way for Hollywood’s elite including Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton to access this isolated spot fifty years ago was by helicopter. Today, there are still no televisions, telephones, air conditioning, or room keys, and cell phones are only allowed in your hale. While the rooms are in need of a bit of refreshing, there’s still nothing else like this resort—unplugged, unpretentious, and unmatched. It’s just the peace and serenity of the ocean lapping upon the shore by day and the flickering of tiki torches lining the paths at night. Activities revolve around Kahuwai Bay, with its swimming, snorkeling, wind-surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and outrigger canoes. Hammocks strategically hung around the property beg for you to curl up with a good book, and there are also two tropical pools, tennis, and a small lovely spa for the perfect unwind from the long flight. Head here first to completely decompress after the wedding, then switch to one of the following five resorts for a little more action and fun. Rates start at $299 per night, with all meals included. 800-367-5290; konavillage.com.

For the five-star experience, head next door to Four Seasons Hualalai for a mix of comfort and high-end luxury. This is where today’s movie stars vacation. While I was there, Megan Fox and Brian Austin Green were just married at the resort and were enjoying their honeymoon. But don’t be put off by the celebrity cachet; it’s as equally accommodating to a newly married couple from Jersey. The staff goes out of their way to make you feel important, no matter who you are. And the property’s newly renovated rooms, amazing golf, spa, beachfront restaurants, designer boutiques, and six pools, including the one-of-a-kind King’s Pond, carved out of lava rock where freshwater and saltwater combine to form a great snorkeling pool, come together to create an incomparable luxury honeymoon. Rates start at $500 per night. 888-340-5662; fourseasons.com/hualalai.