Gear up for King Kamehameha Day: June 11

There are a some great events going on June 11 on the Big Island in celebration of King Kamehameha Day. Grab some bikes, some good friends, and enjoy one or all of these events.

North Kohala Kamehameha Day Celebration
8:00am Lei Draping at the statue of King Kamehameha in Kapa'au
9:00am Parade from Downtown Hawi to the Statue in Kapa'au
10:00am-4:00pm, Ho'olaule'a (crafts fair) at Kamehameha Park top field. Ono food and live entertainment. 


Kamehameha Festival in Hilo
This festival features features a ho'olaule'a with top Hawaii recording artists, hula halau, and various cultural presentations. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Moku Ola (Coconut Island) in Hilo. Free. 


King Kamehameha Day Celebration Parade in Kailua-Kona
To take place on Ali'i Drive in Kailua-Kona, the annual King Kamehameha Day Celebration Parade will feature more than 90 horses, as well as floats, marching bands, hula halau and regal pa'u riders on horseback. The parade begins at 9 a.m. near Royal Kona Resort at Walua Road, passing through town to the Kailua Pier and up Palani Road to Kuakini Hwy., ending near the West Hawaii Today building. A ho'olaulea will be held after the parade at Swing Zone near the Old Airport beginning at 10:30 a.m. Cultural workshops, exhibits, hula and live performances will be featured. 



View Kamehameha Day - June 11 in a larger map

May is Motorcycle Awareness Month in Hawaii

We are happy to share that Hawaii is taking on a motorcycle awareness campaign. TV commercials and other advertising make drivers more aware of bikers on the road. HOWEVER, none of the outer islands have a rider safety course which we feel is vital to rider safety. We wish they would spend their pennies on rider education. That said, here are some helpful hints for drivers and riders:

Drivers need to:

• Remember that motorcycles have the same rights and privileges as any other motor vehicle on the roadway. Always allow a motorcyclist the full lane width; never try to share a lane.
• Always make a visual check for motorcycles by checking mirrors and blind spots before entering or leaving a lane of traffic and at intersections.
• Always signal your intentions before changing lanes or merging with traffic. This allows the motorcyclist to anticipate traffic flow and find a safe lane position.
• Don’t be fooled by a flashing turn signal on a motorcycle – motorcycle signals are often not self-canceling and riders sometimes forget to turn them off. Wait to be sure the motorcycle is going to turn before you proceed.
• Allow more following distance, three or four seconds, when behind a motorcycle so the motorcyclist has enough time to maneuver or stop in an emergency. And don’t tailgate. In dry conditions, motorcycles can stop more quickly than cars.
• Never drive while distracted.

Motorcyclists need to do their part, as well:

• Get properly trained and licensed. Every new rider should enroll in a Basic RiderCourse. Unfortunately not available to those of us on the outer islands!!!!
• Avoid riding in poor weather conditions.
• Wear brightly colored protective gear, such as long pants and a riding jacket.
• Also wear eye protection, boots and a DOT-compliant helmet.
• Use turn signals for every turn or lane change, even if the rider thinks no one will see it.
• Combine hand signals and turn signals to draw more attention to themselves.
• Use reflective tape and stickers to increase conspicuity.
• Position themselves in the lane where they will be most visible to other drivers.
• Ride within your own skill limits and obey traffic laws.
• Be a lifelong learner by taking refresher RiderCourses.
• Never drive while impaired.

Kohala Camping: Deserted Paradise

It doesn't get much better than this: riding into a deserted campground right on the shoreline. At first we thought, what's wrong with this place? Why is no one else camping here? And then we decided it was biker's luck. Situated along rocky shoreline with plenty of shade, good swimming and snorkeling, bathrooms, showers, and plenty of feral cats (eww), this was one of the best campsites we've enjoyed.

We are purposely not sharing the name or location though, we'd like to keep it as it is, deserted. If you call or email and ask us real, real nice, we might share.

Big Island Motorcycle Co.
 808-886-2011
BigIslandMotorcycleCo@yahoo.com

Motorcycle Route: Zipline + North Kohala

Up for some adventure? In this route we combine a great zipline tour with our friends down at Big Island Eco Adventures with awesome, twisty roads, good food, and dazzling views.

- First things first, if you wanna zip you gotta book in advance. This tour company is very popular and is booked at least a week in advance.
- Allow yourself at least an hour to get to the zipline check in center from Big Island Motorcycle Co.
- From Big Island Motorcycle Co. in Waikoloa, head north on Hwy 19 by making a left at the light.
- After 10 miles you will come to a T intersection. Make a left toward Hawi.
- After about 2 miles make a right onto Akoni Pule Hwy toward Hawi.
- Continue along this hwy until you reach the town of Hawi (the first town you come to) and make a right on to Hawi Road just before the old-fashioned gas station.
- On your immediate right is the zipline check-in. There are big signs pointing the way.
- Enjoy your zipline tour! Below are some highlights from the tour we tagged along on:

Dustin getting geared up

6WD ride through the back country to get to the ziplines

Gorgeous waterfall where we enjoyed complementary snacks

A happy zipper!

A nervous zipper!

Cheeee Hoooooo!

Zipline Check-in

- All that adventure will surely make you hungry. Fortunately, there are several good options within walking distance of the zipline check-in. Bamboo has been voted best restaurant on the island for many years, and is right across the street. Super fresh sushi (they make their own wasabi!) can be had at Sushi Rock, also across the street. There is also mexican, plate lunch style, and deli options available all in this one little town. Yum!
- Now that your belly is full, let's get in some adventurous riding. From the zipline check-in, head up Hawi Road (NOT the way you came) toward Waimea and continue to follow the signs toward Waimea.
- This is our favorite riding road on the island. Lots of great twisties and amazing mountain-to-ocean views.
- This road eventually dumps you into the town of Waimea. Make a right at the stop sign toward Kawaihae.
- After about 10 miles make a left onto Hwy 19 toward Kona/Waikoloa.
- After another 10 miles you reach the traffic light for the Waikoloa Beach Resort, make a right and you are back at Big Island Motorcycle Co.


View Motorcycle Route: Zipline + North Kohala in a larger map

Are you up for it? Give us a call to book the tour and the motorcycle rental at 808-886-2011 or email us at BigIslandMotorcycleCo [at] yahoo.com

Be sure to check out our other motorcycle routes by clicking on the tab above. 

It's April, Get Out and Ride!

The American Motorcycle Association (AMA) has designated April Get Out and Ride! month.Click on the link to learn more about the events AMA is putting on, as well as contests and reader stories.

Here's our personal top reasons to get out and ride:
1. Freedom from the confines of a car
2. Great gas mileage
3. Diving into turns
4. Adrenaline!
5. Oh, and it's fun

Wait are you waiting for? Get out and ride!

Motorcycle Route: Big Views South Kona Cruise

Since we've hired our wonderful part-time employee, Dustin and I get to go riding together again! Here is the great route we enjoyed this week.

- From Big Island Motorcycle Co. head north on Hwy 19 to the next light (1 mile). Make a right toward Waikoloa Village.
- Pass the village and continue until the road comes to a T intersection. Make a right onto the Old Mamalohoa Hwy, aka Hawaii Belt Road.
- Take this road into Kona, about 20 miles, looking for the turnoff on your left onto Hwy 180 toward Holualoa. This turnoff is not well marked, but is right after you pass the traffic light for Hina Lani St., look for the left hand turn lane.

- Enjoy the Kona upper road twisties as you ride through Holualoa and Kona's famous coffee country. If you are interested in visiting coffee farms, try our Kona Coffee Route (scroll to the end of the page) and coffee farm recommendations.
- A nice place to stop if you need a break at this point is the town of Holualoa. There is a great little coffee shop, a mini mart, and plenty of art galleries and historic buildings to check out as you give your legs a stretch.
- Continue heading south. The road ends at an odd intersection, a stop sign. Make a left onto Hwy 11 heading south toward Captain Cook.
- After 4 miles of so, make a right onto Napo'opo'o Rd. This is not a well marked turnoff, so keep your eyes peeled.
- This road descends down to the ocean from 2000', opening up to gorgeous views of Kealakekua Bay, where the Captain Cook Monument is located.
- Be sure to take a right at both stop signs you encounter on this road.
- Where road meets ocean you will be able to see the Captain Cook Monument across the bay as well as a close-up view of an ancient Hawaiian heiau, or temple.

 

(The middle blurry dot on the far side of the bay)

- After you've had your fill of turtles and crashing waves, head back up Napo'opo'o by making a left at the first (immediate) stop sign.
- At the next stop sign, make a right onto Middle Keei Rd., enjoying glimpses of the quaintest Hawaiian homes and farms.
- After a few miles, make a right at the next stop sign, onto Painted Church Rd. and keep your eyes out for the left hand turn into the Painted Church parking lot. This church, it's insides completely covered in murals, is worth a stop not only for the paintings, but for the beautiful views and a stroll around the well-kept gardens.

- From the parking lot, make a left back onto Painted Church Rd.
- At the stop sign, make a left onto City of Refuge Rd. which takes you to a T intersection.
- Make a left at the T onto Hwy 11 heading north toward Kona.
- Now here's the tricky part. Your lunch spot is a place called The Coffee Shack which has very little parking (good thing you are on a motorcycle) and requires a left turn against traffic. Please, please, please be careful making this left (if there is parking) and if you miss it and pass it, not to worry, there is a right turn just up the road where you can turn around and figure out where to park.

- Now the not so tricky part, the Coffee Shack has amazing views and great food, so grab a table and take a load-off. We recommend the pizzas (best crust EVER) and any of the desserts in their glass case of temptation.

- Depending on how much riding you have left in you after lunch, there are two ways to get back to Big Island Motorcycle Co. You can simply retrace your path, or if you are tired and don't feel like re-navigating the twisties, simply follow Hwy 11 all the way (40 miles) to Waikoloa Beach Drive and hang a left, a straight shot.



View Big Views South Kona Cruise in a larger map

For more information on motorcycle rentals, click on the "Rentals" tab above, call us at 808-886-2011, or write to BigIslandMotorcycleCo [at] yahoo.com


For more routes, click on the "Motorcycle Routes" tab above

Insider Tip of the Week: Eats: Kohala Coast

Below is a list of our personal recommendations for good eats along the Kohala Coast of the Big Island. See the map at the bottom of the page for directions.

Budget ($5-$15):
* Picnic at the beach! Quality provisions can be purchased at Island Gourmet in the Queen's Marketplace or Foodland Farms Mauna Lani
*Yummy ramen at the Noodle House
*Surprisingly good deals for a golf course restaurant, especially breakfast, at Kings' Grille
*On the go? This convenience store has great grinds: Kawaihae Market & Deli

Moderate ($15-25):
*Fresh Mediterranean fare, great for a sit-down dinner, Merriman's Market Cafe
*Awesome Japanese at reasonable prices at Monstera
*Friendly and low-key, BYOB to Charley's Thai Cuisine
*Consistently good, very high ratings online at Cafe Pesto in Kawaihae

Splurge ($25+):
*The original Roy's! A Hawaii landmark.
*Unexpectedly good and nice ambiance at the Tommy Bahama Cafe
*Any of the wonderful lu'aus, I made a list of my favorites here: Lu'au Options


View Eats: Kohala Coast in a larger map

Insider Tip of the Week: Brew Fest!

Tickets:
• Kona Brewing Company, 75-5629 Kuakini Highway, Kailua-Kona. Phone 808-334-2739.
• Mehana Brewing Co. 275 East Kawili Street Hilo, HI 96720 808-934-8211 calvin@mehana.com
Ticket price at the outlets is $55.

www.konabrewersfestival.com

Happy Valentine's Day!

Get your hubby what they really want for Valentine's Day, a motorcycle adventure in Hawaii!

Click on the "rentals" tab above for more info on pricing

Call us at 808-886-2011 

Write to BigIslandMotorcycleCo[at]yahoo.com

NEW Motorcycle Route: Waterfall Wonders

Catch a glimpse of Hawaii's stunning waterfalls along this scenic route.
Minimum 6 hours. 

Umauma Falls

- From Big Island Motorcycle Co., take a left at the traffic signal, heading north on Hwy 11.
- After about 10 miles you will come to a T. Take a right, heading toward Waimea.
- Waimea is a good stopping point for snacks/coffee/gas (10 miles from the T intersection). Honoka'a (20 miles from T intersection) is also good and they have Tex Drive-In, famous for malasadas, aka Portuguese donuts. 
- Continue along Hwy 19 toward Hilo. The highway takes you in and out of several gorgeous gulches, some of which have waterfalls streaming down the middle. CAUTION: if you feel the need to pull over and take pictures, please remember that this is a highway with a speed limit of 55mph. Slowing down or coming to a stop in this road is extremely dangerous. Please find an appropriate pull-out before stopping along the road.
- After passing the Laupahoehoe lookout you will see signs for a "Scenic Route" to your right. Take it! This road takes you along the old highway and through sugarcane fields of the past.
- Look for the signs for World Botanical Gardens and Gardens Visitor Center toward the end of the scenic route. Inside the gardens is Umauma Falls (pictured above), Kamaee Falls, and of course a wonderful array of tropical plants. Entrance fee is $13 per adult and is well worth it.
- Get back on Hwy 19 heading toward Hilo. Watch for the signs to Honomu and Akaka Falls after a few miles, it will be a right turn. There are a couple turns after exiting the highway, but there is signage to help you.
- At Akaka Falls State park there are two waterfalls, Akaka and Kahuna Falls. There is a moderately easy 1/2 walking trail to the falls viewing areas. At the time of writing entrance was free, however this is slated to change soon.

Akaka Falls

 - Hop back on Hwy 19 toward Hilo. After a couple miles you will see signs for another scenic route to your left, take it! This road takes you through dense jungle, and passes some baby waterfalls along the way. Please use CAUTION on this road as it is often wet, slippery, and has some very tight turns. Best to take this road slow and easy.
- The scenic route will take you back to the Hwy 19, continue toward Hilo. The hwy brings you right into downtown Hilo, which is worth a stop to walk around. We especially love Lilioukalani Park and Banyan Drive. You will want to get gas here, there is no gas where you are heading next.
- Find Waianuenue Avenue (your first right from the hwy), also the main road that cuts through downtown Hilo heading west. Look for the signs to Rainbow Falls, turn will be to your right. Admission free.

Rainbow Falls

- Get back on Waianuenue (heading west) which turns into State Hwy 200, aka Saddle Road. CAUTION: there is a 3 mile strip of road along Saddle that is unpaved (hard-pack gravel). It is fine to take the motorcycles on this road, but use caution. If, after visiting Rainbow Falls you get hit with a lot of rain or foggy conditions, it will only get worse along the Saddle, so you may want to consider re-tracing your steps to get back. This is true if it is getting dark, there are no street lights on Saddle and it gets DARK. Also, Saddle Road gets very high in elevation so it's gets darn chilly, bring a jacket (provided with rentals).
- If you took Saddle Road, take a left at the T intersection after about 30 miles, then an almost immediate right toward Waikoloa. Descend down this road 10 miles until you hit another T at Hwy 11. Take a left at the light then a right at the next light to reach Big Island Motorcycle Co.


View Larger Map

Fun is Easy, 

Rent yours today!

Big Island Motorcycle Co.

808-886-2011

BigIslandMotorcycleCo [at] yahoo.com

Please click on the "Rentals" tab above for more info on pricing and availability.

Insider Tip of the Week: Find a great Lu'au

Attending a lu'au is a must for visitors to Hawaii. Lu'au means "Hawaiian feast or party" and generally includes lots of food, music, and dancing. Most hotels and resorts host lu'aus that feature unlimited food and drink and wonderful hula and Pacific island dance and music performances. The question is, which to choose? Below is a list of recommended lu'aus in West Hawaii (Kona, Kohala, and Waikoloa). Enjoy!

Budget Friendly

Island Breeze Lu'au at the King Kamehameha Hotel: $78.80 per adult, located in downtown Kailua-Kona

Firenesia at the Sheraton Keauhou Resort: $79.95 per adult, located just south of Kailua-Kona

Royal Kona Resort: $62.40 per adult, located in downtown Kailua-Kona

Royal Lu'au at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott: $88 per adult, located in the Waikoloa Beach Resort

Lu'au at the Mauna Kea Hotel: $36 per adult, for SHOW ONLY (no food), located on the Kohala Coast


Family Friendly

Legends of the Pacific at the Hilton Waikoloa: $99 per adult, teen and kids' prices available, located in the Waikoloa Beach Resort

Island Breeze Lu'au at the King Kamehameha Hotel: $78.80 per adult, kids' price available, located in downtown Kailua-Kona

Splurge!

Gathering of the Kings at the Fairmont Orchid: $99 per adult, does not include alcohol, located in the Mauna Lani Resort on the Kohala Coast

Lu'au at the Mauna Kea Hotel: $96 per adult, includes one drink, located on the Kohala Coast

Lu'au at Kona Village Resort: $98 per adult, includes one drink, located a few miles north of Kona Airport

Insider Tip of the Week: Finding Turtles

While in Hawaii you will not want to miss catching a glimpse of a Hawaiian Green Turtle, or Honu, as they are known on the islands.

There are a few beaches where it is highly likely to see them either sunning on the sand or swimming very near the shoreline.

1. Anaeho'omalu Beach Park, aka A Bay. This beach is located just across the street from Big Island Motorcycle Co., right in front of the Marriott hotel.

2. Honokohau State Park, aka Turtle Beach. Inside the Honokohau Harbor, about 3 miles south of the Kona airport. Once you make the turn into the harbor, stay to the right. Pass the boat launch and park near the sailing club. Follow the trail to the beach.

3. Ka'upulehu Beach, aka Four Seasons Resort. Turn into the Hualalai Four Seasons Resort about 8 miles north of the airport. Ask the guard for a beach pass (free). Follow the signs to the beach on the southern end of the resort, which is really in front of Kukio Resort.

Remember!!! Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles are an endangered species. You must stay at least 20 feet away from the turtles while viewing them, no exceptions. It is the law, please respect the turtles.

Need beach gear like snorkeling equipment, chairs, umbrellas, or boogie boards? We gotcha covered! 
Head on over to Big Island Motorcycle Co. for all your beach needs. 808-886-2011 or click on the tabs above for more information.

Hau’oli Makahiki Hou!

Happy New Year everyone!

We just celebrated our one year anniversary doing business as Big Island Motorcycle Co. and what a year it has been! Thanks to all of our awesome customers, family, and friends we are proud to say this year has been a wonderful success, greatly exceeding our expectations. We can only imagine what 2011 will bring.

Warmest aloha and sincerest mahalos,

Dustin and Gwen Edwards

NEW Route: Black Sand Beach

Tucked into the farthest reaches of the Mauna Lani Resort (only 2 miles from our shop) is a great black sand beach perfect for sunbathing, snorkeling, and relaxing Hawaiian style. Want to get there? Follow this great route:

Via Motorcycle or Moped:
     - From Big Island Motorcycle Co. follow Waikoloa Beach Drive to the traffic signal and take a left heading north.
     - After 2 miles take a left into the Mauna Lani Resort.
     - At the round-about take the road farthest to the left going south. Follow this road about a mile, looking out for the (small) residential looking sign that says "49 Black Sand Beach" on your left. This is a gated community but also a public beach access point.
     - Tell the guard you wish to go to the beach. He will have you sign in and you are free to access the beach.
     - Follow the main road inside all the way to the end where you will find the beach parking lot.
     - There are bathrooms and fresh water showers. Don't forget your snorkel gear!

View Larger Map

Via Bicycle:
     - There are two ways to get to the Black Sand Beach via bicycle. The first is to follow the route above. If you are not comfortable riding a bicycle along the highway, you may access the beach via the Kings' Trail.
     - To get to the Kings' Trail from Big Island Motorcycle Co. take Waikoloa Beach Dr. until you reach the Waikoloa Colony Villas condo complex. Just to the east of the complex is the Kings' Trail which takes you across and into the Mauna Lani Resort area.
     - Please note, the Kings' Trail is extremely rough and you must walk the bikes along the trail due to loose lava rock conditions. It is highly recommended you wear sturdy shoes. Be aware that there are places along the trail where you will need to lift the biked over rocks.
     - That said, it takes about 15 minutes to walk the bikes over this section of the trail and back onto pavement.
     - You may cross back over onto pavement just before the little bridge on your left.
     - After crossing the little bridge, take a right onto the road.
     - At the T intersection, take a left.
     - Follow this road, looking out for the (small) residential looking sign that says "49 Black Sand Beach" on your left. This is a gated community but also a public beach access point.
     - Tell the guard you wish to go to the beach. He will have you sign in and you are free to access the beach.
     - Follow the main road inside all the way to the end where you will find the beach parking lot.
     - There are bathrooms and fresh water showers. Don't forget your snorkel gear!

Fun is Easy, Rent Yours Today!

Big Island Motorcycle Co.

808-886-2011

BigIslandMotorcycleCo [at] yahoo.com

Please click on the "rentals" tab above for more information.

Motorcycle Route: Mauna Kea

There is snow on the tippy top of Mauna Kea right now, and more expected to come. Want to get a closer look? Take our Mauna Kea Route right up to the visitor center. Don't worry, you won't need to ride through snow, the white stuff is only on the summit of the mountain.

Be sure to wear a jacket because, baby, it's cold up there!

 For motorcycle rentals call 808-886-2011 or write to BigIslandMotorcycleCo [at] yahoo.com


Prices and more info on rentals can be found by clicking the rentals tab above.

Insider Tip of the Week: Where can I get some breakfast around here?

Need to fuel up before a long day at the beach or a long drive around the island? It can be tricky to find good, reasonably priced breakfast in the Waikoloa Beach Resort, so save some time and use these tips to find yourself some ono grub.

First of all, get out of your resort! Yes, they have charming views and a wonderful setting, but you will definitely pay for it.

For something quick, go to either Whaler's General Store, located inside the Kings' Shops or Island Gourmet Market, located in the Queen's Marketplace. Both have a deli with lots of take-out options, including coffee to go. Do it island style and grab a musubi, spam rolled in rice and seaweed, yum!

For sit down breakfast go to the Kings' Grille located at the Waikoloa Beach Golf Course country club. Very reasonable prices, and they are open early for the golfers.

Romano's Macaroni Grill, located in the Queen's Marketplace, is now open for breakfast, but we haven't tried it yet.

Need more dining suggestions? Give us a call at 808-886-2011 or write to BigIslandMotorcycleCo [at] yahoo.com

Now Renting: Electric Razor Scooters!

Tired of bicycles? Too young or not into riding scooters? Now we have something in between: Electric Razor Scooters for the whole family!

These babies really cruise, the adult model goes up to 15 mph!

$20 per day or $10 per hour

Fun is Easy!

Rent yours today

808-886-2011

BigIslandMotorcycleCo [at] yahoo.com

located in the Kings' Shops in the Waikoloa Beach Resort

9:30am - 7pm everyday

New Farmer's Market in the Kings' Shops

If you are coming to see us for a rental, why not pick up some fresh fruit or flowers to tuck into those saddle bags?

Every Wednesday the Kings' Shops is hosting its very own farmer's market from 8:30am to 1pm.


View Larger Map

Call us for more information: 808-886-2011

Insider Tip of the Week: whales, whales, whales!

The humpback whales have officially returned to Hawaiian waters! During winter the humpbacks migrate down from Alaska to birth their babies in warmer seas. The Kona coast of the Big Island is a great place to catch some whale action. Humpbacks are known for their spectacular breaches (jumps out of the water) so you won't want to miss it!

The best way to experience whale watching is to get up close and personal on a boating adventure. No matter your boating style, we can book a great whale watching excursion for you! There are big boats, small boats, fast boats, and calm boats, let us set you up! Come on in to the shop any day from 9:30am-7pm, call us at 808-886-2011 or write to BigIslandMotorcycleCo [at] yahoo.com

Are you more of a landlubber? Lucky for you there are some breathtaking whale watch spots right on the shore and we will be happy to point you in the right direction, just come on in and see us, maps are free!

Insider Tip of the Week: know your lava flows

What's a trip to the Big Island without a visit to the volcano? Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is enormous and deserves a full day of exploration. You may be surprised to hear that the actual lava flow viewing area is located outside the national park near a town called Kalapana. Not only that, but the flow moves around frequently and sometimes doesn't flow at all. So get in the know and call ahead of time to get information on where and when you can see the flow:

Civil Defense Recorded Lava Hotline:
808-961-8093

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, recorded update:
808-985-6000

Another option is to take a guided tour that will take you directly to all the great sites, drive you around, and even feed you. A major plus in going with a tour is that you do not have to navigate Hawaii's very dark (no street lights) roads at night, as night time is the best for viewing the lava.

Lucky for you, we can book volcano tours right here at Big Island Motorcycle Co. or set you up with a motorcycle to cruise out there in style. It happens to be one of the best rides on the island.

To make a reservation call 808-886-2011 or write BigIslandMotorcycleCo [at] yahoo.com

Insider Tip of the Week: check the weather!

Weather on the islands can be extremely variable so you will want to check the reports a day ahead of time in order to plan your routes around the island. We think the NOAA site is the best for getting up to date weather info. Simply click on their map of the island to see the weather in different locations.

Keep in mind that the Big Island has many micro climates meaning that you could be in desert-like conditions one minute and tropical rainforest the next. This means that, in most cases, you will be able to "ride through" the rain because if it's raining in Captain Cook that certainly does not mean it's raining in Kailua-Kona.

Another tip is that you are usually in the clear as long as the percentage of rain stays below 40% or if it says scattered showers. This means you may hit some rain, but it won't likely be extended showers that would ruin your ride.

We will check the weather for you when you come in to pick up your rental as a complementary service, we'd never want to send you directly to the rain! But of course, nature is nature, so you never really know what she's gonna do.

Please click the "rentals" tab above for more information on our motorcycle and other rental offerings or call 808-886-2011 to make a reservation.

Insider Tip of the Week: Boogie Down

Top Three Boogie Boarding Spots on the Kona Side of the Big Island:

1. Hapuna Beach State Park

The largest white sand beach on the island has a nice boogie boarding break. Except for days when there is a winter swell it is a great spot for beginners and kids, too.

View Larger Map

2. Kua Bay

Another gorgeous white sand beach with waves. Experienced boogie boarders can go for the break in the center of the beach, beginners may want to surf on the north end of the beach.

The access road to this beach is located directly across from the West Hawaii Veteran's Cemetary, just south of the Four Seasons Resort.

View Larger Map

3. Magic Sands aka White Sands

Located in Kailua Kona right on Alii Drive.

View Larger Map

Come in and see us in the Kings' Shops in the Waikoloa Beach Resort to rent a boogie board or any other beach gear like umbrellas, chairs, coolers and snorkel gear. $10 per day or $25 per week per item.

Big Island Motorcycle Co. can be reached at 808-886-2011 or BigIslandMotorcycleCo [at] yahoo.com

Insider Tip of the Week: Free Petroglyph Tour

Free, guided tours of Hawaiian petroglyphs (carvings in the lava rock) are available Thursday - Sunday at the Kings' Shops in the Waikoloa Beach Resort. Meet at 10:30am at center stage inside the shopping center. Wear sturdy shoes, a hat, and sunscreen and be sure to bring some water. Tours last about an hour.

Here is one visitor's account:

“Being an exchange student from Pakistan, it was an exciting experience for me to look at all those interesting patterns in the stones, and try solving the mysteries behind them. Our tour guide was very informative, he told us interesting facts about the strange stone carvings, and how the Hawaiian traditions had changed from time to time. One of the most interesting ones was that the circles represented the birth of a male child on the day of a solar eclipse. The caves were even more interesting. I wonder how people could seek shelter in a place that tight to fit in? The guide pointed out some sea shells at the site of petroglyphs which were thousands of years old! He also talked about Mauna Kea being the tallest mountain of the world because its base starts from the sea bed! It was very fascinating to know about it because Mount Everest is what people around the world know as being the tallest mountain.


The hike was super fun and informative. We tried not to step on the ancient carvings to keep the remains of history intact.

The patterns of human-like figures were most interesting to look at, although nobody has yet discovered that what all the carvings exactly mean, its still fun to look at all the shapes and try to discover the meaning behind every symbol. Especially if you are interested in history and archeology, it is the perfect place to explore!”
By: Nida Rasheed

Hawaiian History Route

This route can be completed on a motorcycle, moped, or bicycle. Time varies depending on which vehicle you choose.

Starting at Big Island Motorcycle Co. at the Kings' Shops, head north on Hwy 11 about 2 miles until you reach the Mauna Lani Resort where you will make a left hand turn to enter the resort. At the roundabout take the first right towards the Fairmont Orchid. Look for the sign that says "Holoholo Beach Park & Puako Petroglyph Park" and make a right.

Park in the beach parking lot and look for the signs directing you toward the petroglyph trail.

The trail takes about 15 minutes to get to the petroglyph viewing area. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes as the kiawe thorns along the trail are nasty and will go right through your slippers (flip flops).

Petroglyphs are Hawaiian rock carvings. They are typically found on flat lava rock surfaces and the significance of many of the carvings is still unknown but you will see carvings of figures like warriors and pregnant women. There is some information along the trail which provides further explanations. The Big Island has the largest concentration of petroglyphs in all of the Hawaiian islands and this particular site is the best I've visited so far. More info: Petroglyphs

Once you are back in the parking lot you can head back the way you came to get back to the highway, or if you are on a bicycle you can head toward the beach and take a right on the shoreline trail. This will eventually lead you to the town of Puako. Ride straight through Puako and up the hill and you will be back on the highway.

Travelling north on Hwy 11 (take a left) you will reach a T intersection after about 5 miles. Take a left toward Kawaihae. After about a quarter mile you will see Spencer Beach Park, make a left into the park. Inside the park is the Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site. This heiau (temple) is one of the largest ever constructed and was built around 1790 by King Kamehameha. There is loads of historical information as well as knowledgeable guides at the site. Visit any day of the week from 7:45am-5pm (entrance gates close at 4:30pm).

Once you've had your fill of interesting Hawaiian history continue heading north on Akoni Pule Hwy (a left out of Spencer Beach Park) to the town of Kawaihae, less than one mile, where you can get a cold drink or good grub at one of the several eateries there.

To get back to Big Island Motorcycle Co. simply head south on Akoni Puly Hwy, make a right onto Hwy 11 towards Kona, travel about 10 miles, and take a right onto Waikoloa Beach Dr.

Can't wait to try out this route? Give us a call to reserve your vehicle of choice at 808-886-2011 or email BigIslandMotorcycleCo [at] yahoo.com.

 Pricing information can be found by clicking the "rentals" tab above.

Insider Tip of the Week: Free coffee farm tour

Did you know that coffee grown in Kona is considered to be the world's best coffee? If you are coming to the Big Island and love you a cuppa, visiting a coffee farm should be on your itinerary.

Most of the coffee farm visits in Kona are free, but Mauka Meadows is a big hit for even the non-coffee lovers among us. Just north of the town of Holualoa on Hwy 180 Mauka Meadows is a botanical garden loaded with fruit trees, tropical flowers, and of course, coffee trees. You park at the top and walk down to their visitor area where you are met by an infinity pool fountain and the chance to taste and purchase their coffees. These views are matched by none. The staff will drive you back to the parking lot when you are ready (it's a pretty steep hill).

Mauka Meadows Coffee Farm

View from Mauka Meadows

A pineapple!

Me and mom tasting Kona coffee

Garden feature at Mauka Meadows

You can check out our Holualoa (Kona Upper Road) Ride under the "motorcycle routes" tab above for more detailed information on how to get there and other attractions in the area.

Also, the Kona Cultural Coffee Festival is coming up November 5-14 so mark your calendars!