As you drive south from Kona you enter the Big Island's Ka'u (Kah-OO) region, a land of mountain forests, rolling green pastures and black sand beaches. The primary towns are Na'alehu and Pahala and they are very small, but have a special country charm. This is also where you'll find the Green Sand Beach, Papakolea. This is not, however, an easy spot to get to and requires some hiking over rough terrain. The less adventurous will want to check out Punalu'u, the famous black sand beach.

At the extreme southern tip of Ka'u is Ka Lae, "South Point", the southernmost piece of real estate in the United States, actually 500 miles, latitudinally speaking, below Miami and about 1,000 below L.A. This is also the home of the Kamoa Wind Farm where Mitsubishi windmills are busy producing clean, efficient energy.

There is much to see in Ka'u but the best sights aren't always on the highway. You may want to check out the village of Ninole and the Seamountain Resort and Golf Course. Also worth a stop is Whittington Beach Park, three miles north of Na'alehu.

Volcano

Of course the greatest attraction on this end of the island is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the Kilauea Caldera. There is much to see here, whether the volcano is flowing or not. The park is easy to get around in, with points of interest clearly marked and maps available at the park headquarters. If you're a vigorous sort there is some great hiking to be done and camping also available. But if you just want to drive around and see the main sights you will still have a memorable experience.

Be sure and visit the Thomas A. Jagger Museum for a history of the volcano and the Hawaiian people. The Thurston Lava Tube is another don't miss stop as you walk down into a fern grotto, descend into a long tunnel (lighted) made by flowing lava and emerge yet again into more rainforest splendor. The entire grounds of the park present photo op after photo op. There are also some wonderful inns and B&Bs in Volcano if you feel like staying a few days or just over night.

This area can grow on you, even though it's not the stereotypical Hawaiian postcard environment. It's high altitude, cool, frequently misty and definitely otherworldly. Ohia and giant ferns take the place of palms and mangoes. Birdwatchers will be thrilled at the sounds and sights of the forest canopy. Spend some time here. Hawaii Volcanoes NP

Puna

Pahoa is definitely worth a stop for a taste of Old Hawaii. Cruise the boardwalks through town and pick up some local produce at the old false-front shops. You will also get another blast from the past as Pahoa is home to some of the last flower children on the planet. Don't be surprised if you feel like you're in a time warp. Peace.