Big Island Brewhaus:
Craft beer has caught on in a big way all around the US. The Big Island is no exception with some of the best choices right here on our Hawaii Island. The Big Island Brewhouse will intrigue and delight the most discerning beer connoisseur with more than 20 choices on their beer menu from a peach seltzer to full-bodied brews representing styles from all over the world. Per their beer menu, you can enjoy handcrafted beers in haus in individual 3.5 oz samplers, a flight of 5 samplers, half pints, pints, and, for some special beers, goblets! Brewhaus beers are available to-go in quart & half gallon mason jars, 1/2 gallon growlers, and in 22oz bottles.
The food prepared and served at the Big Island Brewhaus is of equally high quality and I wish I could say I’ve tried everything but the first dish I had was the Chicken Chimichanga and it is so good that I have never ordered anything else. The same thing happened with my wife and the Paniolo Burrito.
The word is out however so if you go for a visit, allow yourself enough time to wait as the last few times we have gone there has been a line to get in. Last time a server came out and brought us beers while we stood in line which was a nice little service touch. See the website below for hours, menus and location:
https://bigislandbrewhaus.com/big-island-brewhaus-beer/
Big Island Activity: Hike to Pololu Valley
One of my favorite sites on the Big Island of Hawaii is Pololu Valley overlook and the hike to Pololu Valley. Start at the Pololū Valley overlook and find the trailhead for the Awini Trail marked by an extensive array of signs. Be careful as the grade is very steep. Hike down the wide trail and stop at each switchback in the trail to take in the awesome views of the northern Kohala coast. The valley floor is 1/4 mile from the trailhead. Once on the valley floor, the flora changes abruptly into large ironwood trees just behind the beach. Quickly cross the Pololū River where it meets the sea. The water is notoriously rough so I would only suggest that experienced swimmers or surfers get in the water but the black sand beach and tropical landscape are breathtaking.
Take Hwy. 270 to the northern Kohala Coast, past the towns of Hawi and Kapa’au. Park at the end of the highway at the Pololū Valley overlook. There is room for about 10 cars at the end of the road in a parking area that fills up quickly, especially on weekends. If you must park along the road, ensure that you respect the private homes and heed “No Parking” signs. If there is no room, wait or come back another day.
The trailhead has no services at all — no water, no restrooms, and no cell service. I would advise anyone going down to the valley floor to bring water and some snacks. The hike to the bottom is vigorous and relatively quick, maybe 15 minutes. The hike back up is a bit more strenuous for obvious reasons and takes a bit longer.