Introduction
The Big Island of Hawai'i is home to hundreds of breathtaking natural formations. These cliffs took hundreds of thousands of years to form, here are 5 of my favorite locations to visit both to appreciate the views and take a few jumps where it's allowed.
1. Green Sands Beach
Located near the southern point of the island is the hidden gem of Green Sands Beach. To get to the beach you need to either take an arduous 1-2 hour hike over loose sand and crumbling rocks, or hitch a ride with a local who has 4 wheel drive (as long as you can stomach the bumps along the ride). The beach rewards your efforts with a beautiful green beach made up of grains of a semiprecious gemstone known as Olivine. It's worth the potential concussions of the drive.
2. Kealakekua Bay
Kealakekua Bay is an easy to reach state park with the best snorkeling available on the island. Crystal clear waters provide snorkelers and kayakers with views of coral and tropical fish like no other. Would be snorkelers will need to brave an intense downhill hike to reach the bay, as the bay has no street access available in attempts to preserve its natural beauty. Remember to only use reef safe sunscreen if you plan to make the trip.
3. End of the World
The End of the World is named as such for two reasons. The first is because of the open mouthed cave system right next to the cliff's jump point, looking like an opening to the underworld. The second is because the cliff is right next to the Lekeleke Kuamo'o Burial Grounds, where the final battle between Native Hawaiians looking to keep the Kapu system, and those wanting modernization took place. As final respects to the warriors who died in that battle, burial mounds are found all across the cliffs edge, symbolizing the end of their strife and becoming their final resting place.
4. Pe'epe'e Falls
Pe'epe'e Falls is the only location in this project on the Northeast side of the Big Island. Near Hilo, Pe'epe'e Falls is located at the end of a hike alongside the Wailuku River coming down Mauna Kea. The falls is a large open basin of water with two beautiful waterfalls pouring down from a sheer cliff. The water can get really cold in the winter because of mountain snow (yes, snow) so be sure to stay warm afterwards!
5. South Point
The last location on the list is South Point. As the name suggests, its the southern point of the island, and southernmost point in the United States. South Point's cliffs range from 40 to 60 feet high and has a location set up with a 100 foot wooden/metal ladder to help divers out of the water after jumping. Jumping conditions are beautiful and so much fun, but you should only jump if there arent locals fishing. Respecting locals should always be number one on your list of priorities when visiting monuments like these.