Visitors to Hawaii, commonly referred to as Kona, or the Big Island, most often come to visit the Hawaiian goddess Pele, the Volcano Goddess. Volcano National Park is where many end up, but the Big Island offers more.

This is where you find black and white sand beaches; where astronomical observatories sit atop towering Mauna Kea, one of two volcanic cones; and where many enjoy there first taste of unique Hawaiian culture.

Of course, beautiful golf courses, deep sea fishing, all kinds of sightseeing tours, are all here, too. Families enjoy camping, and honeymooners love elegant resorts, some of the very finest in the state.

But when it is all said and done, what draws people here, again and again, is magnificent Kilauea, the earth's most active volcano, and the reason this is called the Big Island.

World-class resorts here include the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, and the Mauna Lani Resort, but for a totally uniquely Polonesian experience, stay at Kona Village. In an altogether different category of accommodation, but certainly not to be missed by those who value it, is the Volcano House, in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Not To Be Missed - Explore Kula Kai Caverns, a system of 1000 year old lava tubes, an entirely different type of cave than usual.