Hawaii Retreat

The Big Island of Hawaii
If you are looking to deepen or begin your yoga practice in an exotic and peaceful environment, a custom designed "yoga vacation" on the Big Island of Hawaii may be the answer to your heart's desires. Begin and end your day with yoga and meditation in a safe and beautiful space and spend the rest of your day exploring the magic of Hawaii.

Give yourself the gift of yoga and relaxation. I will arrange your accommodations, fill your fridge with all your favorite treats and give you all the information you need to explore our beautiful island. The Big Island is the home of Pele, the Volcano Goddess. You will discover miles of black lava rock and suddenly, a grove of palms and lush, exotic wild flowers. Walk along a sparkling black sand beach as you look out to ocean swells that will take your breath away. You may be lucky enough to see a school of spinner dolphins or a whale breaching in the distance. Visit the public markets where you can buy everything from Kona coffee to sea glass necklaces. Make room in your suitcases for island fruit jams, local arts and crafts and gorgeous, colorful sarongs for lounging.


yoga

Frequently Asked Questions about the Big Island:

How do I get there?
You will fly to Honolulu International Airport from North America or Europe. Honolulu is located on the island of Oahu. From there you will take a 45 minute inter-island flight. Check around for the best prices for inter-island connections. Since Go Airlines (flygo.com) arrived on the islands, prices have become more competitive. Also, check with Aloha and Hawaiian airlines. If I had to choose between Aloha and Hawaiian, Hawaiian airlines would be my first choice which has more organized seating and is more comfortable. I understand that Go is also comfortable.

Should I rent a car?
Renting a car is a great idea. The Big Island is the largest in the chain of Hawaiian Islands. There are incredible vistas and points of interest all over the island. Rural in nature, The Big Island doesn't offer much in the way of public transportation. In fact, the natural beauty and absence of city living is what makes the Big Island so special. If you do not drive, arrangements can be made for outings.

Our closest village is Pahoa, only a few miles from Kalani Honua Retreat Centre. Although small, there are a couple of great shops for food and dining as well as a Sunday Morning Market for a little local colour.

What should I bring?
The Big Island is unpretentious and very casual. You need very little to be comfortable here. Bring a pair of loose pants or shorts and a couple of light t-shirts for yoga. A light jacket or sweatshirt is handy if you plan to do any hiking in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Sneakers or hiking boots are a must for hikes or walks on the old lava flows where rocks can be big and uneven. Sandals or flip-flops are a must for lounging. You can dress casually at all restaurants on the island, however, you might be tempted to buy an "aloha" shirt or sundress for an evening out!

Are there shops close by?
Our closest village is Pahoa, an old sugar town, about a 15 minute drive from Kapoho where you will be staying for your yoga vacation. You can buy the necessities and there are a couple of interesting shops. A Sunday market is a few miles down the highway which is a great place for taking in the local color. Be sure to bring your camera! Hilo, the largest city on this side of the island, is about a 45 minute drive from Kapoho and worth investigating. There are a couple of good restaurants and the Wednesday/Saturday market has a lot to offer other than fresh fruits and vegetables. You will enjoy Hilo, a quaint, friendly town and gives you a glimpse of "old" Hawaii.

Is it safe?
Kapoho is a gated community located close to the ocean. Swimming in the nearby Champagne Pond is safe and fun. Hot, underwater volcanic streams merge with the ocean to make a delightful swimming experience. I recommend aqua socks (shoes you can wear in the water) as the bottom is rocky.* It is likely that you will see beautiful sea turtles swimming and napping. They are gorgeous and gentle creatures.

*Aqua Socks can be purchased at the Wal Mart(!) in Hilo about 2 miles from the airport.

Aloha means welcome; what I have you may have, share with me.
Loko maika'I means whatever I say comes from my heart; I have good intentions.
Olu'olu means happy; happy doing for others, an Hawaiian heritage.
Ha'aha'a means humility and meekness; we are happy to serve.
Aloha means love, near or far you are always in our heart.