Featured Activity: Volcanoes National Park
If you haven’t been, or itʻs been awhile since you visited, now is the perfect time for a visit to the Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park. For visitors, the park is not-to-be-missed highlight of any trip to the Island of Hawai`i. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the park protects some of the most unique geological, biological, and cherished cultural landscapes in the world. Extending from sea level to 13,680 feet, the park encompasses the summits of two of the world’s most active volcanoes – Kīlauea and Mauna Loa. There are some changes happening at the park; some of the facilities have been closed for repairs and renovation. And, of course, there is the one/off eruption in Halema`uma`u Crater. In addition to the many fascinating attractions at Kīlauea, the park also includes one of its most recent additions, The Kahuku Ranch Unit. Rolling pasturelands offers beautiful hiking opportunities and a variety of park ranger programs. If visiting on your own, you should first visit the park website, which will provide eruption updates, closures, and a list of things-to-do.
Featured Restaurant: Waimea Butcher Shop
64-1032 Mamalahoa Hwy. Suite 101
Waimea, HI 96743
This whole animal butcher shop/restaurant in Waimea not only offers for purchase any cut of meat in its shop, it also has a restaurant – open for lunch and dinner – which features only products from Hawai’i Island on its menu. As of 2022, Waimea Butcher Shop has worked with hundreds of ranches, farmers, chefs, restaurants, and other local businesses helping to support our island by showcasing quality local products. They use only premium meats which have been sustainably raised and locally sourced.
The shop’s cases are stocked with premium Hawai`i Island raised meats, house-made sausage, charcuterie, jerky, cheeses, sandwiches, BBQ plates and burgers, chili bowls and a special of the day. They also offer Big Island lobster, shrimp and fresh fish when available.
If you’re a barbecue fan, you’ll want to try their smoky brisket, pulled pork, and house made sausage. Their dinner menu includes snacks, small bites, steaks, lamb, chicken, fresh catch, salads made from fresh island produce, and desserts.
In addition to lunch and dinner, Island Waimea Butcher Shop offers catering services and space for private parties.
The restaurant is open Tuesday – Saturday, 10 am – 9 pm, and closed Sunday and Monday. (808) 657.4178 ; WaimeaButcherShop.com.
