Spring Break on the big island (rent, hotel, plane, best)

[jambo101]

Daughter and wife are in the initial phases of planning a 7 day trip to Hawaii's big Island. The main reason for the location is our geologist daughter wants to see flowing lava along with any other geological wonders.
They have rented a house south of Hilo and booked plane fare, they'll rent a car.
Where are the best spots to view flowing lava.
they are also interested in going to a famous celestial observatory on the island.(Worth it?)
what other must see areas on the island,best restaurants/beaches,places to avoid?tips and tricks.
Thanks

[NJ Brazen_3133]

The big island aint that big, so I am sure there are only a few spots. The tour companies probably have daily tours. Once you get to your hotel, I am sure the concierge can point you to the right spots.

Since you like geology, have you thought about Iceland? It is an even bigger island.

[jambo101]

Iceland is on the short list but we can only do one island at a time and at this time our budding geologist is focusing on Hawaii's big island.

[the1heat4u]

I have a home in Pahoa, in fact I will be there on Monday for a week and a half. The east side of the Big Island is easily one of my most favorite places in the world.

Viewing the lava flow is a magical thing, however make sure however you view Madam Pele's wonders, you do it with respect, and in area's approved for viewing. Currently the lava flow is 3.3 miles from Pahoa Village Rd. The road just opened today, however to view the stalled flow front is not an option. As this is on private property and can result in being arrested. So your best bet is to head up to Volcano Natl Parks and spend the entire day there. Check out Thurston's Lava Tube, as well as all the different trails, the lower part of Chain of Craters rd. Once the sun sets you will have places to view the "glow".

Outside of that, there are water tours, where you can view the lava going into the ocean. Check first to make sure it is doing it tho. Nothing like wasted money. Currently Pu'u'o'o eruption has occupied another lava tube, which is the reason the lava path has headed towards Pahoa. I do not know if that has effected the flow into the ocean.

Take the Red Road to Roads End, and Uncle Ava's. Here you can walk across the Kalapana lava flow from (1963 I believe) to a lovely black sand beach. Please note it is a rough entry into the water with strong rips. You will often see surfers out there. Wednesday night there is a great farmers market like vibe that goes on. Be kind, smile, and say Aloha and all will be fine.

Something to keep in mind about the East Side - don't dress up, or dress nice. You will stick out like a sore thumb and everyone will know you are haole tourist. Puna is one of the most laid back places on the entire island. Everyone is friendly and kind, but it is always best to blend in.

Please send me a message if you would like to know more about the area, frankly I could go on for ages about all the places to visit. I don't think everyone wants to read it tho!!

Originally Posted by jambo101

Daughter and wife are in the initial phases of planning a 7 day trip to Hawaii's big Island. The main reason for the location is our geologist daughter wants to see flowing lava along with any other geological wonders.
They have rented a house south of Hilo and booked plane fare, they'll rent a car.
Where are the best spots to view flowing lava.
they are also interested in going to a famous celestial observatory on the island.(Worth it?)
what other must see areas on the island,best restaurants/beaches,places to avoid?tips and tricks.
Thanks

[Dreaming of Hawaii]

Regarding the observatories, you can either go during the day and actually tour the inside of an observatory or you can go at night to see the stars (but you can't go in an observatory).

The Subaru Observatory gives tours, but you need to get yourself there. The drive up the mountain can be hairy for someone not used to mountain driving. It's a rather steep gravel road and the rental car we had almost didn't make it all the way up. It was really fascinating to see the inner workings of an observatory.

Or you could go at night and just drive yourself up to the Visitor's Center. That drive is really easy, even for flat landers. There are people there with telescopes, so you will be able to do stargazing. Make sure to bring jackets -- it gets chilly at 9,000 feet.