Featured Activity: Tour the Petroglyphs
If you’re looking to discovery a piece of Hawai`i’s history, you might consider a visit to the petroglyph fields on the Kohala Coast. Petroglyphs are carvings etched into the lava rock by people who lived on the island long ago. On the Kohala Coast alone there are more than 3,000 rock art symbols, some of which date back to 1200 AD. Though the true meanings of the petroglyphs are unknown, it’s generally thought the carvings represent births, genealogy, and significant events in the lives of those long ago artisans.
The best opportunities to view the petroglyphs are:
1. A guided tour each Tuesday and Thursday at 9:30 a.m. at the Kings’ Shops in Waikoloa Beach Resort. You can register for the tour on the resort’s website: kingsshops.com
2. The Puako Petroglyph Park at Mauna Lani Resort is a self-guided hike which starts at Holoholokai Park’s parking lot. It’s a 2/3-mile hike through a kiawe forest to the viewing platform at the edge of the petroglyph field.
In both cases, please plan to wear close-toed shoes and hats; use sunblock and bring water. Also, please do not walk on the petroglyphs or take rubbings as they are fragile and can be damaged.
Featured Restaurant: Arise Kona Bakery & Cafe
Established in 2022 in the Old Industrial Area of Kailua-Kona, Arise Kona Bakery and Café is a family run bakery/coffee shop. Arise offers Sandwiches & Toasts, Delectable Pastries, Flatbreads, Soup, Sweet Crepes &Bubble Waffles, and Smoothie Bowls & Cups. It is the go-to bakery for its house made sourdough bread.
Stop in for one of its Specialty Coffees or Teas enhanced by latte art that makes each drink different and interesting. Or call ahead for a takeout order.
The shop offers a variety of seating options on two levels and an activity area for keiki. It is open Tuesday to Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. (closed Sunday & Monday) at 74-5555 Kaiwi Street F 2-3, Kailua Kona, HI 96740. arisekonabakeryandcafe.com AriseKonaBakeryandCafe@Gmail.com, (808) 731-7388.