Ever come across an incredible hotel that stops you mid-scroll and makes you think, Wow, wouldn鈥檛 it be something to stay there? We do, too鈥攁ll the time.听Welcome to Friday Fantasy, where we highlight amazing hotels, lodges, cabins, tents, campsites, and other places perched in perfect outdoor settings. Read on for the intel you need to book an upcoming adventure here. Or at least dream about it.

My first steps into the open-air lobby of the on Hawaii鈥檚 Big Island were overwhelming in the best possible way.

From the check-in counter, my eyes were drawn to what awaited outdoors: towering 60-foot palm trees, a white-sand beach, and shimmering aqua waters of the Pacific, all visible from the lobby. The softness and greenery of the scene were a welcome contrast to the jagged mountainscape of my home state of Colorado. While I鈥檓 generally more at home in a tent, I was sure glad I鈥檇 made an exception to visit the Westin鈥攁nd so was my wife.

It wasn’t only the natural beauty that stirred my senses. The hotel鈥檚 magnificent architecture takes on a unique aura, depending on the time of day. Soft lighting and spacious lounges create a sensual, relaxing atmosphere as twilight fades into night. On our first evening there, as I sat under the stars in one of the poolside chairs, my stress melting away, I could hear music and laughter humming above. At dawn, I watched the sun slowly illuminate the blue horizon from our room. As my wife and I went downstairs for a buffet breakfast (which was excellent鈥攎ore on that later), the calming interior’s soft white walls reflected morning light. It was the perfect ambiance to ease into the day.

The namesake Hapuna Beach, located on the northwestern side of the island about 30 miles from the main town of Kailua-Kona, was one of the main reasons I wanted to visit this hotel. Much of the Big Island’s beaches are craggy with igneous rocks. The only soft sand is often found in small coves peppered with pebbles. While those beaches have what I’ll call a “cozy” appeal, Hapuna’s long, white shores and gentle surf are what most of us envision when conjuring up the ideal tropical retreat. Wandering out to the beach and staking our claim under one of the hotel-provided umbrellas made us feel like we were really starting prime relaxation on our vacation.

If you tend to enjoy spending time on-site, though, the Westin doesn’t disappoint. Fragrant, colorful plumera bushes line the walkways to the pool area beyond the lobby. There鈥檚 an adults-only infinity pool with a hot tub on the top level and a family pool with a hot tub on the bottom. Both pools were fully handicapped accessible with lift chairs. We dabbled in the pools a bit more so at night, opting to spend most of our daytime hours adventuring in or near the water.

The Westin houses three restaurants, ranging from casual eateries to fine dining. I was especially intrigued by the vegetarian dishes and those made with Hawaiian ingredients. Island spices, like , and native fruits, like 听are best appreciated when fresh. You’ll taste flavors and textures unlike anywhere else in the world. It wasn’t long before I wondered how I ever lived without eating macadamia nut sundaes with warm kulolo (taro pudding) and lilikoi (passionfruit) sauce.

After dark, the Westin Hapuna takes on an elegant glow. The softly illuminated infinity pool was alluring and spacious, so I opted to float there while my wife soaked in the hot tub, sipping a mango mai tai. Thick breezes occasionally nudged the pliant palm trees, carrying the scented bouquet of beach and flora. Waves echoed in the distance, and stars sparkled in the ink-black sky. Shut your eyes for a moment, and it feels like a peaceful, lucid dream. I had to admit, I could get used to this.听

国产吃瓜黑料 Intel

Even though sitting on the beach or sipping a cocktail at the hotel bar is a great way to chill out, it鈥檚 easy to get antsy鈥攅ven in paradise. Fortunately, the Westin Hapuna has a nice set of mini adventures right out of your room, both on-site and off.

Resort 国产吃瓜黑料s

The Westin Hapuna provides complimentary snorkels, masks, and flippers, ideal gear for exploring a cove just north of Hapuna Beach that鈥檚 perfect for beginners. The fish seem on board with the plan. When I was there one morning, they showed up in droves. We saw a school of yellow tang, their deep lemon-yellow scales glowing in the clear water. We were pleased to spot a few reef triggerfish, the official state fish; their streaks of iridescent blue are eye-catching, but perhaps more interesting is their native name: humuhumunukunukuapuaa. More experienced swimmers can head out farther and explore a rocky outcrop rich with sea life, including the occasional sea turtle or parrotfish.听

When we visited in September, the ocean waves were calm, which locals told us is typical for that area most of the year. This makes the water suitable for kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. You can rent equipment for both at the resort for a modest charge, though we opted to invest more time snorkeling and swimming during our visit.

Another fun mini adventure is to walk or swim down the beach to its southern end (left of the resort when facing the ocean), then wade through waist-deep water to discover an easily accessed sea cave. It鈥檚 an easy, enjoyable walk that takes 10 to 15 minutes one way. We explored this humble cave twice since. It was exciting to watch the swells crash into the rocks around the cave entrance, which is about 25 feet wide, and wander inside鈥攏ot something to fear, as it’s only about 30 feet deep, with a high ceiling.

A 0.7-mile hiking trail connects the Westin Hapuna Beach Resort with its sister resort, the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. The path heads over volcanic outcrops (so go barefoot), takes about 40 minutes, and听is a great way to move your legs and start your day鈥攊t鈥檒l warm you up nicely for all that relaxing you have ahead. If you鈥檙e seeking a more significant hike, good news: this small section is part of the larger听, a 175-mile seaside route that passes many historical Hawaiian sites.听

Off-Site 国产吃瓜黑料s

Mauna Kea Volcano

Like to go big? Hawaii鈥檚 highest point, 13,803-foot听 from the resort. If you鈥檝e rented a four-wheel-drive vehicle, you can motor all the way to the summit area, where a surreal collection of astronomical observatories are positioned amid the volcanic red dirt, their white domes contrasting with the blazing blue sky. Hikers up for a tough trek can head out on the Humuula Trail from the visitor center (elevation 9,200 feet); this 13.2-mile out-and-back will test your mettle, with a whopping 4,500 vertical feet of elevation gain, and should be taken seriously. The potential for altitude sickness is real, especially if you鈥檝e been at sea level for a few days. If you haven鈥檛 planned for the hike in advance, the drive up is still a worthy excursion and听one less likely to cause a pounding headache.

I did this hike on my visit (check out my on Backpacker), which was one of the highlights of my Hawaiian adventure. Coming from Colorado, the elevation wasn’t a big issue鈥攖hough I did have to delay my hike for two days due to an invasive-species cleanup operation, something done several times each year. The long hike is nonetheless amazing. Most days you’ll be above the clouds from the start, and the looming dome of Mauna Loa dominates the southern sky. The Humuula Trail traverses terrain that compares quite favorably to the surface of Mars. The “big reveal” on the summit is the 13 observatories. The sci-fi vibe is unlike any other mountain I’ve hiked, combining ancient geography and cutting-edge technology. If you can make time for this hike, do it! The round trip, including drive time, took us about ten hours.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Hawaii Volcanoes is a more ambitious day trip, but one that can be done from the resort if you don鈥檛 mind a bit of driving. It鈥檚 slightly one way. It鈥檚 worth it, especially if you catch one of the random eruptions of Kilauea, an active shield volcano whose immense crater is a hotbed, no pun intended, for lava flows.听But even if the volcano is calm, there are lava tubes to explore, gorgeous flora, exotic birds, and ancient petroglyphs. The , and it would be wise to make reservations on the day you plan to visit.听

Zip Lining at Botanical World Gardens听

听from the resort and takes you over to the eastern side of the Big Island. There you can zip down eight separate lines over the dense forest, cross a delightfully wobbly suspension bridge, and wrap up your tour with a speedy half-mile zip line over a deep ravine replete with a gorgeous waterfall. The Botanical World Gardens would be worth exploring even if you weren鈥檛 zipping around a hundred feet off the ground. The guides are excellent, good-natured, and put safety first. The entire tour takes about two hours.

Our outing was a blast. The first few zip lines are short, about 250 feet, but glide over ravines thick with twisting vines, chunky mango trees, and dense pockets of flowery shrubs. The shaky suspension bridge was giggle-worthy fun, bringing to mind countless old-time movie scenes. Between zip lines, we got to indulge in the rich gardens themselves. We sampled star fruit and sugarloaf pineapples, a white, less-sweet pineapple that has a robust pineapple taste. Out guides cut the bountiful fruit right off the plants鈥攁s fresh as it gets. On the penultimate zip line, my wife and I zipped side by side and “raced,” though since I outweigh her by at least 40 pounds, gravity was on my side and gave me a convincing win. The final half-mile zip line is incredible, though I won’t spoil it. It’s one of those things you must do yourself to fully appreciate.

Check out 听here.

Choice Rooms

The 鈥攖here isn鈥檛 a bad room in the house. All are ocean-facing, so you鈥檒l get a private balcony with a view of the Pacific no matter what floor you鈥檙e on. Ground-level floors have a lanai and walk-out access to the grounds.听Ocean View and Premier Ocean View rooms are both excellent choices (premier rooms are on higher floors). We booked the latter. The beds are ridiculously comfy, the balconies feature lounge-a-riffic daybeds, and guests have the option of using a screen door for two-way ventilation or the A/C. It must be mentioned that all rooms come equipped with a modern bidet, a true mark of the civilized world.

Eat and Drink

The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort and nearby Mauna Kea Beach Hotel are both Marriott properties, which means guests have access to both locations鈥� , great news for foodies.听A free shuttle service runs between the two, but if you feel the need to work off your meal, you can always bring a headlamp and walk the aforementioned Ala Kahakai Trail as a post-dinner constitutional.

On-site options at the Westin Hapuna Beach include:

• , an听oceanside fine-dining establishment that combines Mediterranean dishes with many creative Hawaiian twists, such as Plancha Hawaiian Ahi (an ahi salad with a touch of Kona-harvested Hawaiian salt) and Island Mushroom Risotto.
• The punches way above its namesake as a mere grill. All the usual pub suspects are here but raised a notch, thanks to the addition of Hawaiian elements (I mentioned its Hawaiian banana split at the start of this article). The Naupaka Grill is on the resort鈥檚 ground floor (below the Meridia), so all the beachside sounds and sites enhance the experience.
• serves up delicious, distinct cups of warm Kona coffee by day, strawberry-guava mai tais and assorted snacks by night. Piko is set in the spacious hotel lobby, with excellent views of the entire grounds. Live music is available most nights.
• Finally, is the place to grab a hearty breakfast with a great panorama. Like Piko, this restaurant is set on one of the tiered levels connected to the hotel lobby. The incredible Moku Nui Breakfast Buffet is one of the absolute best we鈥檝e been to, seemingly offering the whole menu鈥攆rom salmon and eggs to fresh Hawaiian fruit鈥攊n one place.听听听

When to Go

There鈥檚 really no bad time to visit Hawaii. The temperature is consistent (between 75 and 83 degrees), with only minor fluctuations in rainfall. September to October and April to May are Hawaii鈥檚 shoulder seasons, so the crowds will be lower than during the peak-visitation months of July and December.听

How to Get There

Fly into (Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole, or KOA) and grab a rental car. From there, it鈥檚 a .听

Don鈥檛 Miss

The at both the Westin Hapuna Beach Resort and the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel are worth a closer look. There are also cultural classes scheduled year-round at the properties if you want to learn more about Hawaiian history and art.

There also two spectacular golf courses听on-site: the and the . These are world-class, 18-hole courses in one of the most beautiful settings imaginable.听

Finally, the koi feeding (7 A.M. on most days) at Westin Hapuna Beach is a satisfying way to start your day, kind of like ASMR in real life.听

Details

To Book:

Price: From $326, plus a $37 daily resort fee

Address: 62-100 Kauna鈥檕a Drive
Waimea, HI 96743

James Dziezynski is the SEO director at 国产吃瓜黑料 Inc., the author of six , and an avid traveler who has now visited all 50 states. Because he couldn’t sit听still, he had to hike Mauna Kea before finally giving in and relaxing at the beach.听

The post For Active 国产吃瓜黑料rs, This Is Hawaii鈥檚 Best Beachfront Resort appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

Typically, the winter holiday season is the busiest鈥攁nd priciest鈥攁cross Hawaii. And for good reason: the surf turns epic and the state鈥檚 balmy, palm-swept beaches look extra dreamy as temperatures start to fall precipitously on the mainland. But after unprecedented wildfires swept across Maui this summer, tourists have been wary to visit not just Maui, but other islands as well.

What this has meant for America鈥檚 paradise is hard times鈥攖ourism generates nearly a quarter of its economy. The economic loss for Maui alone, both in business sales and visitor spending, is estimated to be $11 million a day, according to the Hawaii Tourism Authority, and the fires鈥� impact has had a ripple effect across the state. Visitor arrivals decreased significantly this summer and are predicted to remain flat this fall but possibly grow again in December.

Jonathan Wilt, a spokesperson for Hawaii Forest and Trail, a tour operator on Hawaii Island, says the company was rocked by cancellations in recent months, something he attributes to the fires. Travelers were most likely on an interisland itinerary, he reasoned, and with the news of the fires, they canceled their entire trip. 鈥淎ll of the islands could use additional guests visiting their places of business in the near future, us included,鈥� says Wilt. Many small businesses on Maui, such as Hali鈥檌maile General Store鈥攍ocated upcountry, more than 30 miles from the shoreline blazes鈥攈ave had to reduce their hours, if not temporarily close.

More than a few Hawaiians have called the scenario reminiscent of the pandemic.

Brett Sheerin, owner of Maui True North, which offers surf and kitesurf lessons, says it鈥檚 been surviving only because locals have booked its services of late. He put it succinctly: 鈥淔ew tourists have been coming. It鈥檚 a huge crisis on top of a tragedy.鈥�

I also understand that there are mixed opinions after a disaster of what is best for the people on the ground who have lost the most. I reported a story right after the Maui fires that addressed this and also a more widely reported story on how to decide when it’s okay to return to a destination after a disaster. While some businesses in West Maui, the area hardest hit by the fires, are eager to get back to work, many locals feel it is too soon after such devastating losses for tourist to return and have have petitioned the state government to postpone the October 8th reopen date.

Other parts of Maui are open and ready for tourists, as are the rest of the islands. As with any place, visit mindfully and respectfully and consider using your tourism dollars, on any island, in ways that will help rebuilding efforts, support locals who heavily rely on tourism for their livelihoods, and give local economies on the islands a boost.

In an effort to woo back visitors, a number of hotels, restaurants, and tour operators are offering deals now and through the end of year. There will also likely be fewer crowds. But the main reason to book a vacation to Hawaii this season is because you鈥檙e giving back during a time when residents need it most and you can organize a thoughtful itinerary by using properties donating portions of their profits to helping other locals. Here鈥檚 where to look.

Score Deals on Flights

Beginning November 1, Hawaiian Airlines will launch several holiday offers, including HawaiianMiles partner promotions, gift-card deals, and special Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales on select routes, including those to and from mainland U.S. and between the Hawaiian Islands.

Save on Hotels

Hotels are often the biggest expense of a Hawaii getaway. New fall deals, many of which extend through year鈥檚 end, can save you up to 30 percent off nightly rates.

On Oahu, hip newcomer Wayfinder Waikiki is extending a through December 31, which includes up to 20 percent off rates, plus a waived amenity fee and a $25 daily food-and-beverage credit. If you鈥檙e willing to become a (free of charge), you can save up to 25 percent off ocean-view rooms and 50 percent off resort charges at the Prince Waikiki.

On the Island of Hawaii, Hilton Waikoloa Village recently launched a fall promotion offering up to 30 percent off nightly stays, and if you take advantage of Mauna Lani鈥檚 , you can enjoy up to 25 percent off nightly rates.

Kauai鈥檚 newest property, the eco-minded 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay, is offering discounts of up to 30 percent, plus up to $800 in resort credits through the property鈥檚 . The package at Ko鈥檃 Kea Resort on Poipu Beach includes a fourth night free, a $5 donation to a local ocean-education nonprofit, and an opportunity to participate in a beach clean-up.

And on Maui, condo-rental property Kaanapali Alii has packages of up to 15 percent off through December 15, and is donating $50 for each reservation to the People鈥檚 Fund of Maui through the end of the year. The 70-acre, oceanfront Hana-Maui Resort is offering 15 percent off (use code 15OFF) to encourage travelers to use Hana as a base for exploration.

Castle Resorts, which has 20 properties throughout Hawaii, including Ala Moana Hotel on Oahu and Hilo Hawaiian Hotel on Hawaii Island, recently launched its , with up to 30 percent off bookings through December 15. You can save up to 25 percent off nightly stays at any of Outrigger Resorts and Hotels鈥� nine properties across the islands, including the Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel on Oahu and the Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa on Hawaii Island; check out the brand鈥檚 . And if you鈥檙e game to volunteer, you can earn a free night at any Marriott Bonvoy property in the islands, such as Marriott鈥檚 Kauai Beach Club and the Laylow on Oahu, through the brand鈥檚 .

Restaurant Reservations Are Easier than Ever (and Will Do Good)

Reservations at Mama鈥檚 Fish House, a 42-table institution on Maui鈥檚 North Shore, usually book out a year in advance. Locals have been taking advantage of canceled dinner bookings, says owner Karen Christenson, but you can walk in for lunch (which serves the same menu)鈥攕omething unheard of. Christenson notes that dining at Mama鈥檚 doesn鈥檛 just help the Maui economy. 鈥淲e buy from farmers on the Big Island and Kauai, and fishermen on Molokai,鈥� she says. 鈥淲hen we don鈥檛 have guests, they feel it.鈥�

Matteo鈥檚 Osteria, a beloved Italian restaurant and wine bar in Wailea, Maui, is donating 20 percent of all sales to local disaster relief.

Through the end of December, the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea will host Love for Lahaina, a series of pop-up dinners to support the hospitality industry and farmers directly impacted by the fires. The first event was hosted by James Beard Award nominee Lee Anne Wong, who lost her Lahaina restaurant, Papa鈥檃ina, to the blazes.

The Marriott Waikiki Collection of hotels (, , , and , all on Oahu) is offering a Mai Tais and Burgers for Maui special: one dollar from every cocktail and burger sold will go toward the Aloha for Sheraton Maui Ohana Relief Fund through the end of the year.

The Places You Visit on Your Trip Can Help Maui Recovery Efforts

Still other hotels and tour operators across the islands are donating portions of profits to relief causes, which you can help bolster during your trip. The Kaimana Beach Hotel, on Oahu, has pledged to donate $20 for every booking through the end of 2023 to partners that include the Hawaii Community Foundation鈥檚 Maui Strong Fund and the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement鈥檚 Kako鈥檕 Maui Fund.

On Hawaii Island, Volcano Village Lodge and Volcano Village Estates are donating 20 percent of every new booking for stays happening now through November 15 to support Maui wildfire victims. And the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea鈥檚 donates up to $200 to the Maui Strong Fund for every night that you stay through December 15.

Tour operators are also funneling funds to Maui charities. Redline Rafting, which offers snorkeling tours of Molokini (off Maui), whale-watching trips, and guided hikes in Haleakala National Park, is donating proceeds from every tour booked to the Community Recovery Fund. Or book its special charity tours, which donate 100 percent of the proceeds to wildfire-recovery efforts.

And if you鈥檝e always wanted to see the coastline from above, Maverick Helicopters on Maui has launched a give-back promotion through the end of 2023 that contributes $10 for every purchased seat on any tours.

Whale season starts in October and is especially good off the coast of Maui. The will be offering 20 percent off its through the rest of the year.

Paradise Helicopters, based in Kona on Hawaii Island, has introduced a handful of for October, which the company says will likely run through the end of the year. You can save $50 off all tours from Waimea on Hawaii Island and the Turtle Bay Resort on Oahu (use code PP50) and $75 off all tours from Kona and Hilo on Hawaii Island (code PP75). When you book six seats on its Kohala Coast and Waterfalls tour on Hawaii Island, you can get them at $299 per seat versus $420, and if you book four seats on the Lava Rainforest 国产吃瓜黑料 Tour on Hawaii Island, you can purchase them for听 $349 per person instead of $469.

You can also save big on exclusive heli charters when you donate to the . Donate $750 and you get a free landing (which typically costs $1,825). With a donation of $1,200, you鈥檒l receive a bottle of champagne to go along with that landing (a $2,787.50 value).

Finally, it鈥檚 worth keeping in mind that fewer visitors mean fewer crowds at some of the islands鈥� key attractions, like the Road to Hana in Maui. 鈥淭his is a wonderful time to take the bucket list-worthy drive,鈥� says Jon Benson, general manager of Hana-Maui Resort. 鈥淲e are surrounded by unmatched hikes, waterfalls, lava tubes, and a bamboo forest.鈥�

*This story has been updated to reflect a petition from many locals asking the Hawaii state government to postpone the opening date for West Maui.*

国产吃瓜黑料 correspondent Jen Murphy lives part time in Maui and has been encouraging her friends to visit this holiday season to help bolster the local economy after the fires.听

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The eruption of 13,679-foot Mauna Loa, the world鈥檚 largest most active volcano, began late Sunday night on the Big Island, joining 4,009-foot Kilauea, which has been erupting for a year. What does this mean for visitors and hikers heading to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park?

The viewing has been 鈥渟pectacular,鈥� says Jessica Ferracane, the park鈥檚 public-affairs specialist, who admired the glow from Kilauea this morning as well as the vigorous activity from one of four fissures currently open on Mauna Loa. 鈥淭his is a rare time鈥攖wo simultaneous eruptions. And this is a sacred event鈥擯ele is coming to life.鈥�

Hawaii County mayor Mitch Roth echoed those sentiments and encouraged tourism. 鈥淭his is a great time to come visit. You鈥檙e seeing one of the most unbelievable sights ever.鈥� He noted that the eruption of Mauna Loa was visible from Hilo, Kona, and numerous other points around the island, and he saw many residents viewing the lava flow from Inouye Highway and Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area (Mauna Kea State Recreation Area) on Saddle Road, about 35 miles west of Hilo.

December and January are high travel season for the island, and the national park, which is open 24 hours, can see as many as 8,000 visitors a day during this period. Already crowds have begun to flock to the park in the excitement to see the dual eruptions. Ferracane recommended the viewpoints of听Kupinai Pali (also known as Waldron Ledge), which is an easy half-mile walk from the Kilauea Visitor Center, where there鈥檚 parking, as well as from behind Volcano House. The park is advising visitors to come before 9 a.m. or after 9 p.m. to reduce traffic.

While the summit of Mauna Loa is closed, an eruption that began within its crater has since migrated to the northeast rift zone, on the slopes outside of park boundaries, as high as 200 feet.

鈥淭he parts of the park that 95 percent of visitors come to see鈥攖he visitor center and trails鈥攁re still open and have been impacted very little,鈥� says Ferracane, who noted that only a fraction of the popular 354,461-acre destination had closed as as a result of the volcano.

The U.S. Geological Survey’s scientists continue to , Ferracane says. Currently, lava flow has descended more than five miles downslope and is moving at less than a mile per hour, according to Ken Hon, scientist-in-charge at the USGS鈥檚 Hawaiian Volcano Observatory. Of the four fissures, number three has been the most active. The national park is also staying in contact with the Hawaii County Civil Defense and the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency for updates.

A previous ash advisory by the National Weather Service has been canceled, and the park continues to monitor air quality for higher levels of sulfur, ash and vog (volcanic smog), although safe levels are currently being reported, according to the Hawaii Department of Health. has air-quality updates specific to the park and links to other island health advisories.

In terms of park access, backcountry hikers have been the most affected by the eruption and the recent uptick in seismic activity, including earthquakes, over the fall. The 11.5-mile Mauna Loa Road was closed at the access gate at Kipukapuaulu (also known as Bird Park) on Monday due to safety concerns. This parking area is normally the trailhead for a 1.2-mile loop that passes through one of the island鈥檚 most biologically diverse areas and recent lava flows. It is also the start of the Mauna Loa Trail, which heads to the summit, and the Mauna Loa Lookout, located at 6,667 feet.

The greater Mauna Loa backcountry and its high-elevation cabins have been off-limits to visitors since early October, when the volcano began showing signs of elevated seismic activity. 鈥淲e are not issuing any backcountry permits for Mauna Loa, but we are still issuing them for coastal backcountry areas,鈥� Ferracane says.

No nearby local communities are expected to be affected at this time and no evacuations have been ordered, but local residents have been told to prepare to leave if conditions shift. Some flights to Hilo airport were canceled yesterday but flights in and out of both Hilo and Kona airports have resumed service, and air traffic is open and fine, says Mayor Roth.

Mauna Loa last erupted in 1984, and at that time lava flows came within four miles of the city of Hilo. That eruption lasted for 22 days. Kilauea began erupting in September of 2021, but activity has been limited to the Halemaumau crater. Officials said that it’s still too early to say which direction the Mauna Loa flow will take, because things are unstable and unpredictable.

Conditions can change rapidly during an eruption, however. For updated information, go to the website for status updates.

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Taking an island vacation doesn鈥檛 have to mean splurging on some ritzy all-inclusive resort. You can grab your tent and get away from it all for a fraction of the cost year-round. Even better, the winter season on these U.S. islands has a different feel, marked by diminished crowds, an abundance of waterfront space, and a quiet beauty.

I love camping on islands, especially those with empty beaches. In honor of National Camp Day, on November 19, I鈥檝e compiled a list of nine U.S. island destinations that beckon with warm weather and plenty of outdoor adventure.

1. Santa Rosa Campground
Santa Rosa Island, Channel Islands National Park, California

($15) is nestled in a beautiful valley on the northeast side of Santa Rosa Island, the second-largest island in this national park, just 50 miles off the Southern California coast. Book your passage over with (from $55 one-way), which leaves from Ventura Harbor. The ferry will drop you off at the pier, and from there it鈥檚 an easy 1.5-mile hike to the campground, which offers potable water and modern bathrooms.

Each of the 15 sites has a wind shelter, which is key this time of year, as gusts can whip through the valley. I鈥檓 speaking from experience鈥攜ou want to pitch your tent behind that shelter. But even a windy night is worth waking up to the sound of the Pacific crashing on the beach below the nearby cliffs, and the sunrises are spectacular鈥攂ook sites one through four for the best views.

I recommend fishing or diving for your supper from the bay by the pier; although 20 percent of the park鈥檚 waters are marine-protected areas, fishing is allowed everywhere else in accordance with state (permits from $9). During my trip here, it was easy to collect overpopulated urchin and spear rockfish.

Hikers can enjoy the island鈥檚 many trails, which range from a mile to 28 miles, and keep an eye out for the adorable foxes鈥擨 counted 14 when I was there!鈥攐ne of the park鈥檚 281 endemic species.

2.听Cinnamon Bay Beach and Campground
Saint John, U.S. Virgin Islands National Park

Kick it in the Caribbean when you bunk at the only in U.S. Virgin Islands National Park. Visitors can choose from a variety of tent sites ($50) or cottages ($285) December through April and pop in to the on-site Rain Tree Caf茅 for options like smoothies or food to go. This is a paradise that begs exploration by land and by sea; take to the more than 20 trails in the park, some leading to petroglyphs and an old sugar mill, or rent snorkeling gear at the campground and spend hours swimming the island鈥檚 turquoise waters and coral reefs home to some 400 species.

3. Cannabis Farm and Greenhouse Garden
Mountain View, Big Island, Hawaii

Campers on the eastern side of the Big Island can choose between two unique sites at this forest 鈥攏ext to the cannabis grove or within the greenhouse deck ($45 for two people per night). Enjoy hot outdoor showers, but expect to pay for electricity.

The host offers one-hour cannabis tours ($50 for two people), surf lessons ($75), and customizable island tours. Or head off on your own to explore the nearby Wao Kele o Puna rainforest, sacred home of the goddess Pele as well as native habitat to the endangered apapane and akohekohe birds. The hot spot of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is also just ten miles away.

4. A Gulf Coast Island Retreat
Gibsonton, Florida

Now鈥檚 your chance to cosplay Robinson Crusoe: an with four campsites is available to rent in the middle of the Alafia River, about a 20-minute drive south of Tampa (from $65). Designed with elevated wooden platforms for your tent, an outhouse, a fire pit, and a picnic table, you pack in the essentials (including water) and pack out all your trash.

Although the island host offers shuttle service for a fee, renting one of his kayaks or canoes for the quarter-mile crossing is your best bet: you can paddle to area mangroves, catching sight of dolphins and stingrays; request a river tour; or, for a night out, tie your boat up at the across the water.

5. Stafford Beach Campground
Cumberland Island National Lakeshore, Georgia

Only 300 visitors a day are allowed on Cumberland Island, a barrier island more than twice the size of Manhattan. ($12) has ten sites and offers necessities like flush toilets, fire rings, potable water, and (cold) showers. A 45-minute from the town of St. Marys will drop you off at the pier. From there, you鈥檒l take a 3.5-mile trail to the campground, part of a 50-plus-mile island-wide network.

Or bring your bike and cruise around with your binocs鈥攖here鈥檚 plenty of wildlife to see, including wild horses, loggerhead turtles, and alligators. Saltwater fishermen can look to hook species like catfish and crocker. Historical relics also remain an attraction; tour Dungeness Ruins, a former mansion occupied by the British in the War of 1812, and Plum Orchard, once the winter home of the Carnegie family, built at the turn of the 20th century.

6. A Private Horse Farm
Saint Helena Island, South Carolina

This 70-acre , set on the property of Camelot Farms Equestrian Center, is a working farm once part of the Coffin Point Plantation. Its five sites ($15) rest between two ponds below a grove of oak trees, potable water is available from a spigot, and campfires and pets are permitted. (There are no bathrooms.)

with the farm ($100), or head three miles down the road to (from $5), the filming location for Forrest Gump鈥�s Vietnam War scenes, where birders can check oystercatchers and yellow-rumped warblers off their list this time of year, hikers can enjoy more than nine miles of trails, and anglers can rent a rod and reel and try their luck at the end of a renovated pier or along the shore.

7. Bird Island Basin Campground
Padre Island National Seashore, Texas

Bird Island Basin鈥檚 steady wind and warm shallows qualify it as one of the best windsurfing spots in the country. You can pitch your tent at one of the first-come, first-served sites ($8, plus a $25 vehicle entrance fee) along Laguna Madre and then make the easy two-minute walk to for a windsurfing class (from $70) or to rent kayaking or paddleboarding gear.

If you鈥檙e there for the birds鈥攑lenty are, as it鈥檚 located on the Central Flyway鈥攚inter sees thousands migrating through the area, and the double-crested cormorant and snowy egret. Aficionados might tack on 鈥� six-to-eight-hour birding tour ($600 for up to four people). Come prepared with food and firewood, as the nearest stores are 12 miles away.

8. Rainforest Camping
Utuado, Puerto Rico

Leave the mainland behind for this ($30) in the mountains 90 minutes southwest of San Juan. Ask the host for a map of the property when you arrive and hit the trails in search of waterfalls. Amenities include an outdoor shower, a bathroom with hot water, fire pits, and potable water. There鈥檚 also a on the property ($59), and breakfast and dinner can be ordered for an additional fee.

Up for an eco-adventure? Host-led tours include hiking, exploring subterranean rivers, caving and more. Or venture into the town of Utuado for rappelling, river caving, and horseback riding on a coffee farm,听or to visit the pictographs and stone monoliths of Caguana Indigenous Ceremonial Park,听an ancestral site of the native Ta铆nos.

9. Kahua Lehua (Hoomaluhia)
Oahu, Hawaii

A campsite within Hoomaluhia Botanical Garden? And just nine miles from the island鈥檚 beloved Lanikai Beach and 12 miles from central Honolulu? Yes, please! At Kahua Lehua ($32), you鈥檒l have access to the sprawling 400-acre property, which features plants from major tropical regions around the globe as well as those indigenous to Hawaii.

Birders can request its garden-specific checklist, which includes local species like the Pacific golden plover and black-crowned night heron. Five campsites are available (each can accommodate groups of up to ten) and offer picnic tables and fire circles. The required permit is available for purchase two weeks ahead of time, so be ready to book鈥攖his place is popular.

Alexandra Gillespie is a travel writer whose work has appeared in National Geographic,听Scuba Diving, and NPR. She lives in Southern California, where she spends much of her free time shore diving.

The post 9 Beautiful Island Campsites in the U.S. to Pitch Your Tent All Winter Long appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

One of the听 is in Hawaii, on the Big Island. It鈥檚 a 42.6-mile leg buster that gains 13,837 feet as it winds up听Manua Kea, the tallest volcano on the planet. But it鈥檚 a walk in the park compared to the abandoned route that scales听the back side听of the same volcano, which has pitches that reach 31 percent and soul-sucking stretches of 鈥済ravel鈥� made up of sand and dirt听and lava rock. Veteran pro mountain biker听听was the first person to ride the route, completing it in late February with YouTube star and amateur cyclist Tyler Pearce, a.k.a.听. This grueling first ascent might be Bishop鈥檚 last big expedition for the foreseeable future, since, like many of us, his spring race and adventure schedule has been derailed by the coronavirus pandemic.

鈥淓verything was going so well,鈥� Bishop says. 鈥淚 trained all winter, I knocked the toughest hill climb in the teeth, I was feeling good and confident and ready to tackle my next big challenge, a brutal expedition ride called the Massanutten Ring of Fire, in Virginia. And then comes the virus.鈥�

Bishop has spent the last two decades dominating the mountain-bike endurance scene,听topping听the podium at some of the most renowned stage races in the world.听He鈥檚 been a member of the U.S. national mountain-bike team 16 times and听won gold at the Pan American Games in 2003. His true niche might be 100-milers, though鈥攈e听won听the National Ultra Endurance series, a collection of the best 100鈥檚 in the country, in 2014. At 44, Bishop is still sponsored by 听and continues to win: he took听first place at听11 races in 2019. Now听he鈥檚 coming to grips with the fact that he probably won鈥檛 be standing on any podiums for at least听the first half of 2020.

It鈥檚 the kind of situation that can send a competitive racer听into a tailspin. But Bishop has been incredibly upbeat on social media, providing inspiration and unique perspectives听for his fans, whether it鈥檚听 about finding beautiful new gravel roads during his workouts听or encouraging his听 to听join him on virtual group rides on Zwift. 鈥淭hese things are not easy, and it鈥檚 perfectly natural to be disappointed,鈥� Bishop says. 鈥淎thletes thrive on the pursuit of these races, and the fallout from that disappointment can be depression.鈥澨�

Bishop encourages people to stay positive through these times, advising them to follow some semblance of a听training program and accomplish daily, weekly, and monthly goals to help reinforce a positive mindset. 鈥淪etting those tasks and goals and scratching them off the to-do list creates a success cycle that helps you psychologically,鈥� he says. 鈥淓ven if you don鈥檛 do the race, you can be proud of the routine and the work that you鈥檝e put in. That kind of reinforcement keeps me going during these setbacks.鈥�

Bishop knows from experience. He says his progress as a pro athlete has been derailed countless times by injury or outside forces, like the 2008 economic crash, when his sponsors pulled the plug on his race team as his wife was going into labor听with their first child. 鈥淚 was pacing the hospital floor on the phone trying to find sponsors,鈥� Bishop says.听鈥淢y first baby was showing up in hours, and I felt so powerless. Not feeling in control creates a lot of fear.鈥澨�

Currently, Bishop is still training as best he can under our ever evolving circumstances. He鈥檚 avoiding group rides听but still pedaling on local roads and neighborhood trails solo when he has the chance,听although he鈥檚 cutting back on his usual all-day epics. 鈥淚t won鈥檛 be easy,鈥� he says. 鈥淵ou can鈥檛 go on three-hour rides when your kids are home from school. I鈥檓 a dad, I have a trainer in the basement and Legos on the floor. I get it.鈥�

Bishop has slowly fallen in love with that basement trainer over the last couple of years, leaning into Zwift when he can鈥檛 meet others on the trail or road. 鈥淚鈥檒l get on Zwift and get to interact with friends in Spain or Italy or right down the street,鈥� he says. 鈥淚t鈥檚 really motivational, because you鈥檙e chasing someone down.鈥�

He has also been focusing more on strength training, and says this extra time at home is a perfect opportunity听to double down on the sort of work that cyclists and runners tend to avoid. 鈥�Building strength听is so important if you want to avoid injuries as you age,鈥� Bishop says. 鈥淚 like to gamify my training to keep it interesting, using traditional moves but creating fun challenges.鈥� For example, Bishop has a 35-pound rock in his backyard that he鈥檒l hold against his chest while doing squats on a balance board. If he loses balance during the squat, he has to start the count over at zero.听鈥淚t will destroy your legs,鈥� Bishop says.

Whether you adopt a strength program at home (see Bishop鈥檚 go-to plan,听below) or spend more time exploring your local trails, Bishop says this could be a good听opportunity to try something new. 鈥淐onsider it a splash of cold water that gives you the chance to refocus and do that thing that you really want to do, either shaking your听training up now at home听or later when our lives get back to normal.鈥�

Jeremiah Bishop鈥檚 At-Home Strength-Training Routine

Kettlebell Step-Ups: Hold a 25-pound barbell or kettlebell (or rock) with both hands, and step up on a bench with your left leg. Then step down. Do 15 on your left leg, then switch to your right leg.

Box Jumps: Pick your height of box (benches work, too, if you don鈥檛 have a box). From a standstill, jump up on the box, concentrating on the explosive movement and a soft landing. Jump or step down. Repeat ten听times.

Exercise-Ball Stands: Start by kneeling on an oversize听exercise听ball, your hands on the front of it听for stability. Try to balance for 30 seconds. When you perfect that position, move to听kneeling on the ball and balancing听hands-free. When that becomes easy, stand on the ball, balancing in place. When that becomes easy, do body-weight squats on the ball. If you can鈥檛 balance on the yoga ball, use an upside-down Bosu ball, standing on the hard part听and working on air squats.听

Spiderman Push-Ups: Assume the push-up position. As you lower your body to the ground, bring your right knee beside your body to your right elbow, then return your foot to the starting position as you raise your body off the ground. Repeat on the left side. Work to 20 in a row.

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At 国产吃瓜黑料, our staff听makes the most of our home base of听New Mexico, from winter dawn patrol at Ski Santa Fe and year-round climbing in Roy to summer road trips throughout the Southwest and beyond. But for those precious PTO days, we think听bigger. In 2020, our editors are all about finally taking the dream trips they鈥檝e been thinking about for years.

Traveling Solo Across Scotland

After two years stateside, I鈥檓 heading to Scotland this spring for my first visit to the UK听and my second solo trip abroad. My first time traveling alone鈥攂ackpacking in New Zealand鈥攖aught me a lot about the logistics of independent trip planning and being a woman alone in a foreign country. Ultimately, I really enjoyed the experience of being by myself somewhere new, and I feel much more equipped to plan my travels this time around. On the itinerary: biking on the Isle of Skye, hiking in the Highlands, and drinking lots of local whisky. To be determined:听whether I鈥檒l brave a taste of the culinary wonder that is听.

鈥擜bbey Gingras, associate audience editor听

Observing听Fat Bears at Katmai National Park听

Every summer听I spend far too much time on YouTube watching the grizzlies fatten up at听Katmai National Park and Reserve during the听Fat Bear livestream. This year, rather than sitting behind my computer screen, I plan to make the pilgrimage to Alaska and trek into Katmai to see my favorite furry giants hunt for salmon up close.听

鈥擪aelyn Lynch, assistant travel editor听

Planning 国产吃瓜黑料s with People听I Love

My fianc茅 and I went through a life-changing traumatic experience last year that reinforced two things: your health and your time are precious, and nothing really matters more than being with the people you love. So for 2020, my big travel goal is to do just that. Many of the people I love听live far away, so I鈥檓 planning some fun trips with them. In March, my best friend is coming to visit from Iowa, and we鈥檙e going to spend her spring break skiing in Aspen, Colorado, where we met while ski bumming years ago. In April, I鈥檓 going to Todos Santos and La Paz in Baja, Mexico, with my younger sister (we鈥檝e pledged to take a #SisterTrip together every year, no matter what), and we鈥檙e going to try to catch the whale sharks on their migration. In July, we鈥檙e going to take my mom to see the wildflowers put on their colorful show in Crested Butte, Colorado, and听a month later, my whole family will reunite on the Big Island of Hawaii for my sister鈥檚 wedding. At some point during the summer, I鈥檒l meet my mountain-biking buddies from the East Coast for a long weekend of riding in Whistler and Squamish, British Columbia. And somewhere in between, my fianc茅 and I are going to take a trip for just us (destination TBD). Instead of one or two big trips, I鈥檓 looking forward to several quality long weekends in amazing places with the people who matter most.

鈥擥loria Liu, features editor听

Backcountry Skiing in the Canadian Rockies

My dream trip is one I鈥檝e taken three years in a row now. It鈥檚 a surprisingly cheap itinerary, with the outfitter . Every January, I join 13 friends and take a helicopter from just outside the town of Golden, British Columbia,听to a hut in the Esplanades, a subrange of the northern Selkirk Mountains, and spend seven days touring in what is effectively our own private backcountry zone. We鈥檙e out of cell range and get to drop into this detached, blissed-out headspace听but don鈥檛 have to work that hard for it. We sleep in beds with nice sheets, wake up to coffee and breakfast, and ski-tour into ridiculous alpine terrain right from our front door. Plus, we get to warm up in a wood-fired sauna every night.听

鈥擜bbie Barronian, assistant health editor听

Exploring听an Underrated 国产吃瓜黑料 (and Foodie) State听

Having lived in the gorgeous but landlocked state of New Mexico for three years now, I鈥檝e learned to seize every PTO opportunity to experience (at least) one body of water and eat my fill of fresh seafood. This fall听I鈥檓 looking forward to doing just that by spending a week in Maine to hike Mount Katahdin and witness the changing of the leaves, soak up the salty ocean air, and pack in the culinary delights of Portland, a recent winner of .

鈥擩enny Earnest, audience development director听

Returning to a Special Climbing Fest

In March,听I鈥檓 heading to the听Women鈥檚 Climbing Festival听in Bishop, California, to climb with some friends (old and new), do a little work (at听国产吃瓜黑料,听we partner with the fest every year), and celebrate its fifth anniversary. Bishop is one of the most magical places I鈥檝e been, offering听countless听world-class听boulders against a backdrop of snowy mountains;听the Owens River Gorge, home to hundreds of sport routes; and 300-plus women to climb with during the event. I鈥檝e been spending time on the hang board to make sure I鈥檓 ready to climb my hardest.

鈥擜bigail Wise, digital managing director

Taking a Cross-Country Train听

With all the climate-fueled talk of train travel lately鈥攁nd news that Amtrak is of doing away with its sleeper trains and getting rid of long-haul lines鈥擨鈥檓 going to make this the year I plan a trip around a rail route. I鈥檒l either take Amtrak鈥檚 , which runs from Seattle to Chicago, and stop at Whitefish, Montana, to spend a few nights at Glacier National Park, or I鈥檒l hop on the after a weekend in New Orleans, get off in Charlottesville, Virginia, and bike the 37 miles to Shenandoah National Park.听

鈥擡rin Riley, senior travel editor听

Altitude-Training in Mexico City

In February, I鈥檓 making a brief escape from the dreaded New York winter and heading to Mexico City for a few days. I鈥檓 mostly looking forward to the tacos and the sun, but I鈥檒l also get the added bonus of some altitude training鈥擨鈥檒l be in the middle of prepping for a spring marathon, and the city sits at 7,000 feet above sea level. Fortunately, I鈥檒l be staying near the enormous and beautiful Chapultepec Park, so I won鈥檛 have any excuses for skipping my runs. (Yes, this is my idea of vacation.)

鈥擬olly Mirhashem, digital deputy editor听

Packing in Hawaii鈥檚 Highlights听

Thanks to my calculated yearslong accrual of credit-card airline miles听and the offer of a place to stay from a very generous friend, I鈥檓 finally going to Hawaii. My family and I plan to spend a few days on the Big Island, horseback riding into the Waipio Valley, swimming with manta rays off Kona, and lazing on white-, black-, and green-sand beaches, before heading to Kauai for a luau and a catamaran trip to take in the full view of the Na Pali Coast. I can鈥檛 wait.

鈥擳asha Zemke, copy editor

Climbing the Spot Where My Parents Met

This year听I鈥檓 making a climbing pilgrimage to Devils Tower in Wyoming. My parents met there when they were young climbers, and when I was a kid living in Estes Park, Colorado, we visited the nearly every summer. I spent all those years staring up the 800-foot granite columns, imagining the view from the top. When my parents and I听attempt the classic six-pitch Durrance Route in late summer (to honor the voluntary climbing closure in June), I鈥檒l finally get to find out.听

鈥擬aren Larsen, assistant gear editor

Spotting Orcas in the San Juans听

I鈥檓 a bridesmaid at a Seattle wedding in June, and I鈥檓 planning to tack on a few days in the San Juans to (hopefully!) see . I鈥檝e been obsessed with them since I visited Free Willy鈥檚 at the Oregon Coast Aquarium when I was a little kid. My bestie, who grew up on Whidbey Island, has a ton of great beta for whale-watching from land, and I鈥檓 also thinking about doing . (I鈥檓 skipping the tour boat, since 听evidence it bothers the whales.) Honestly, I will be completely devastated if I don鈥檛 see an orca, so please send me all the good vibes.

鈥擜leta Burchyski, associate managing editor

Taking听a Road Trip Across China鈥檚 Danxia Landform

Over the holiday break, my girlfriend and I drove throughout the Southwest to see as many national parks and monuments as we could. It made me realize how much I love road trips and that I should plan one in my home country. This summer or fall, I鈥檒l drive to see the , a term given to the unique type of landscape found dotted around the country鈥檚 southwest provinces. It鈥檚听known for its colorful sandstone mountains, evergreen forests, and uncommon geological formations. I plan to spend three weeks driving through the provinces of Guangxi, Guizhou, and Yunnan. Until then, I hope to hone my climbing chops while in New Mexico so that I can tackle the limestone, sandstone, and granite crags that make up much of the Danxia landform.听

鈥擶ufei Yu, editorial production fellow

The post The Trips 国产吃瓜黑料 Editors Are Taking This Year appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

Yes, the Kilauea volcano on Hawaii鈥檚 Big Island is erupting. The lava started flowing in early May, and last week, the U.S. Geological Survey changed the advisory warning on Kilauea to , warning that a major eruption is imminent or underway.

But here鈥檚 the good news: You don鈥檛 need to cancel your upcoming vacation to the Aloha State. The rest of the island chain is untouched by lava, ash, and poor air quality, and of the Big Island鈥檚 4,028 square miles, less than ten are currently affected by the eruption. In fact, if you didn鈥檛 have a trip booked, now might be a good time to plan one, thanks to reduced visitor numbers, killer last-minute deals on flights, and a chance to help out relief efforts.

Here鈥檚 what you need to know about visiting Hawaii right now.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Is Closed

You can鈥檛 visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park right now, which is closed indefinitely as a safety precaution. But if you were set on seeing a national park during your trip, 听on Maui is a fine substitute, and flights there from the Big Island run daily. Haleakala means House of the Sun, and watching the day break from atop the 10,023-foot summit is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Be sure to , as it can get crowded.

Kona and Hilo Remain Unaffected

If you鈥檝e already planned a trip to the Big Island, chances are you鈥檙e staying on the Kona Coast, the isle鈥檚 most popular tourist spot. About 100 miles away by road and literally on the opposite side of the island from the eruption, the region has reported no change in听air quality. Hilo, another popular tourist town, is closer to the volcano鈥攁pproximately 40 miles away鈥攂ut there鈥檚 still no impact from the volcano as of now.

You Can Get a Glimpse of the Eruption

The air space over the volcano is closed, so scenic helicopter tours are a no-go, and you can鈥檛 get close enough on the ground for a good look due to safety issues. But if you鈥檙e a lava chaser, you鈥檙e in luck. You can see the glow of lava splatter from the sea. departs from Hilo twice daily in a high-speed boat for 90-minute dawn and dusk tours of the volcanic coast on the easternmost tip of the island. Plus, the company is currently offering discounted rates of $150.

Getting There Is Cheap

All airports on the island of Hawaii are open and operating with no interruption. Plus, airlines have stellar discounts right now to remind people that the islands are open for business. has flights from Oakland or San Jose, California, to Kona for just $219 each way, and has deals from the mainland to the whole chain. If you already booked a ticket with them and want to reschedule or reroute, they're听also a one-time reservation change without extra fees.

Nearly All Lodging Remains Open

Those who rented a vacation home in the Puna area near the volcano or were planning to stay at Aqua-Aston Hospitality鈥檚 , located within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, will need to make alternative plans. Aqua-Aston will happily offer a refund or transfer you to one of more than , including three on the Big Island, like the beachfront condos at (from $180). Otherwise, hotels around the Big Island would all love to have you.

You Can Help Relief Efforts

More than 1,800 residents of the Big Island have been evacuated from their homes, and local businesses are doing their part to help. You can chip in, too. At , a restaurant in the quiet town of Waimea, $2 from every dessert sold goes to the local nonprofit spearheading relief efforts. And if you book a tour online with , which offers a zip-line over a 250-foot waterfall in Hawaii鈥檚 Akaka Falls State Park, you can add a听donation that will go directly to a relief fund.

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Australian Craig Alexander retired from Ironman triathlons last year as the sport’s dominant figure. The Australian said he was ready to dedicate more time to his family, and that his 41-year-old body could no longer sustain Ironman’s punishing training regimen. His plan was to race shorter, half-Ironman races, and to live full-time back in Australia.

Now, less than 12 months later, he’s preparing for his comeback. After quietly logging huge training miles in Boulder, Colorado, he is now set to race the on October 11.

We sat down with Alexander to discuss how he’s adjusted his training and why walking away from Ironman was harder than the race itself.

OUTSIDE: Take us through your decision to come back from retirement.
ALEXANDER: My wife and I had said that when our second child, Austin, started school, we’d stop traveling and stay in Australia full-time, and I’d just race shorter [triathlons]. That was supposed to be this year. At the beginning of January my wife and the kindergarten teacher decided to hold Austin back another 12 months. He’s 4-and-a-half-years-old, so the teacher thought he was still a bit too young. That was the initial catalyst, because I immediately knew I could go to Boulder and have at least three months to get ready.

I’ve also had a few issues the last few years with a back injury, and I didn’t want to put myself in the position of being on the starting line and not being physically up to it.听

Have you done anything differently from a training perspective?
I’ve always done lots of volume and intensity. But in my aging body that work manifested itself in physical problems, so I had to rethink my methods and overhaul my training. I’m now vigilant about getting two massages a week, going to the chiropractor once a week, getting dry needling, and spending more time stretching. I spend more effort on recovery and just listening to my body. Every now and then my back will hurt on a long run or a bike ride. I can’t tell if it’s real or a phantom pain, but I do feel it. So I learn to rest and go easy.

Are there mental and emotional reasons for coming back?
To be honest, it never really hit me that I was retired, because I probably needed six to eight months away from triathlon for it to sink in. Even last year when I said it would be my last Kona, it felt like any other season. I turned my brain off triathlon in October, and then spent time at home until January. So from an emotional standpoint, I didn’t really give myself a chance for it to sink in. Three months later Austin didn’t start school and I started thinking about [Ironman]. It’s a tough question, because I don’t feel like I had the chance to say that after 20 years of being a full-time athlete, I’m done with it. Instead, I just started planning the season and laying out things that I needed to do.

Are you worried that people will see you as the guy who couldn’t walk away?
Look, I’m not the type of guy who is looking for more publicity. I’m the guy who wants less publicity.听I’m just doing something I love to do and yes, I’ve changed my mind. I can say that I definitely thought last year was going to be the last year. It wasn’t an emotional response to a bad race, because I thought about it leading up to the race. There were family situations and age and all of those things. But my desire to race didn’t go away.听

People are saying ‘Are you crazy? You’re going to hurt your legacy!’ Legacy is a big bullshit word. My daughter said to me when I was thinking of coming back, ‘Daddy, I want to see you race Hawaii again,’ and I told her it was going to be very hard. She said, ‘But it’s supposed to be hard, isn’t it?” What type of legacy would I leave to her if I said ‘This is too hard?’

What are your expectations for the race?
I want to perform to the best of my abilities, and no less. I don’t want to say, “I wasn’t up to it because of my age or because of my level of prepration.” The goal is always to have my best performance, and in the past, my best performance has won. I’m expecting a high level. I’ve certainly prepared at that level. I’ve been training very hard for the better part of three months.

I know my level of fitness is very high. There are times I’m doing in the pool and on the bike and in running that are as good as I’ve ever done.

What lessons can amateur triathletes learn from your decision to come back?
Be open and flexible. As triathletes we’re all similar personality types, which is Type A-obsessive. So yes, it helps to be very organized and have schedules and goals. But coming through the twilight of my career I’ve learned that flexibility can be really helpful. Develop a plan, but also be flexible within that plan. The body can change. Family and commitments can change.

And will you continue to race Ironman in the future?
I’m fairly confident this is the last Kona. Only time will tell. I lost some credibility by saying this last year. I probably should have never said it was my last one last year, but at my age I get asked that 10 times a year. Will people doubt me? Sure, and they’re entitled to. When you change your mind on something, maybe you lose credibility, but it’s something I want to do.

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Play in the waves and summit a snow-covered volcano in the same day on this 300-mile tour of paradise.

Packing List: Snorkel and fins, swimsuit, SkyView iPhone app听

Highlights: Start in Kailua-Kona and rent a four-wheel-drive vehicle at (from $735 per week), which will let you go from sea level to the 13,796-foot summit of dormant Mauna Kea. Kick off a weeklong tour by renting a paddle- or surfboard at and play on the reef break at Kahaluu Beach Park (surfboard, $100 per week; SUP, $250 per week).

In Hawaii Volcanoes National Park ($10 entry), choose from 150 miles of hiking trails and eat ahi tuna at the newly reopened Rim restaurant while overlooking the fiery plumes of Kilauea Crater. Crash at one of ten spartan one-room cabins in ($80).听

At Hilo, head west on Highway 200 to for a sunset tour of the summit and arguably the best stargazing on earth ($212). Double back to Highway 19 and Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area to hike the 15-mile coastal-loop trail, stretch out on the quarter-mile-long white-sand beach, or surf the many breaks nearby. Book a beachside cottage at the (from $450, minimum two-night stay), where you can toast to good living with a Bombay Sapphire鈥搃nfused Sandy Toes cocktail.听

Wrap up the trip with a off the Kona Coast alongside ghostlike manta rays as they feed on glowing plankton ($109).

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Each winter, snow covers the peak of , a 14,000-foot dormant volcano located on Hawaii鈥檚 Big Island. And, yes, this 鈥減ineapple powder,鈥� as locals call it, is ready to rip.

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Just don鈥檛 expect chairlifts, or any amenities for that matter. The barren, moonlike summit鈥攚hich is technically state parkland but also houses 13 astronomical observatories鈥攃an only be reached via a service road.

Once at the top, it鈥檚 a free-for-all. Pick your angle, get at it, hike back up and repeat. Beware of the lava rock beneath the snow, mind the high winds that sometimes whip through, and you鈥檒l be in for the one of the strangest runs of your life.

Just ask pro snowboarder and Sochi halfpipe hopeful , who carved a few lines on Mauna Kea in 2010.

What was it like riding Mauna Kea?
Snowboarding on Mauna Kea was a crazy experience. We went there in the beginning of March to check out the mountain and see if snowboarding on Hawaii was really possible. Because you are driving from sea level to 14,000 feet, you are required to stop on the drive up at 10,000 to acclimate. It is crazy to go up that high in elevation in about a two-hour drive. The snow is much like Mt. Hood in the summer鈥攕lush that gets iced over when it is cold at night and softens up during the day with the sun. The terrain is pretty minimal: basically just short slopes between switchbacks on the road. We were able to hike up one face that gave us a long ride down, which was pretty incredible.

Did you have to hike back up at the end the runs?
You can do vehicle shuttle runs, where you just ride down to a low spot on the road and get shuttled back up, or you can just hike. It is not great snowboarding, but just the experience was something worth going for.

What are the views like at the summit?
The views at the top are amazing. You can see all of the Big Island as well as the close islands of the Hawaii chain. It feels like you are in the middle of nowhere because you can see that you are completely surrounded by water.

It was definitely among some of my weirder snowboarding moments, especially because after we snowboarded we went back to the beach and went surfing in the same day!

Sochi is no Hawaii, but it is subtropical and has similar sea-to-sky altitude gains. Does having experience on a variety of terrain help you approach a unique environment like Sochi?
I have never been anywhere that is like snowboarding on Mauna Kea. Sochi is subtropical, but once you get up into the mountains where our event will be, it is full alpine and loses the subtropical feel. Mauna Kea still feels like Hawaii even at the top of the mountain.

Follow Elena Hight on her Sochi journey through her web series Hight Hopes:

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