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Big Island - Waimea
Published: 03/23/2009
Time to leave the resorts behind and head to Waimea. Upcountry or Paniolo Country is worlds away from the bustle of the beaches. The pace is island-style and many things are still done in the old ways. While paniolos (cowboys) are busy rounding up cattle from horseback, fine art & cappuccino are being offered alongside the latest fashions just down the road. This area is also known for its exceptional fine farm land where organic vegetables are grown all year. Here you will experience a beautiful diffused golden sunlight, an amazingly bright hued rainbow and fantastic sunsets all in one day. Generally the area is cooler than the beaches so bring a sweater or jacket – just in case.
The first stop on this journey is the Parker Ranch Square. Here you can have your coffee on the lanai as you watch the town rub the sleep from its eyes. What was once a rough and tumble cowboy town is now a lively community of entrepreneurs that mixes a general store, fine art from the Gallery of Great Things, one-of-a-kind pieces of jewelry from Kamuela Goldsmiths and a collection of boutiques. Across the street is The Isaacs Art Center at Hawai`i Preparatory Academy where you will discover rare examples of works by the leading Hawai`i artists of the 20th and late 19th centuries, Asian furniture and objets d’art, masterpieces of wood sculptures, and selected collectibles of the highest quality. All proceeds benefit the school’s financial aid program.
Merriman’s is a perfect place for lunch. They are “Home of Hawaii Regional Cuisine”, award winners and a meal there is a guaranteed memory of great service, the freshest local ingredients and a wok-charred ahi to die for!
Head right into town where you will find the Waimea Shopping Center. This strip of businesses and international cuisine is a wonderful place to walk off your lunch and explore the plethora of personality. Get a friend or local to take your photograph by the famous paniolo. The sculptured boot located street side is another photo shoot opportunity. Be sure to go the Parker Ranch General Store and find out about getting onto the ranch with one of their tours.
By mid afternoon, a glass of cold refreshing liquid might just hit the spot. Tako Taco Taqueria is the place for you. See if the brewery is open. Take out and picnic at any of the four large parks in Waimea.
Go back to the Waimea Center for a little more shopping and you are ready for dinner. If you prefer an Italian ambiance and fresh baked calzone then Solimene`s is the place for you. Hungry for some local food with the Korean Perfect flavor, go to Yong's Kalbi where the smiles go from face to face. At the end of the day you will have photos and memories of wonderful Waimea, aka Kamuela!
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Locations
Big Island, Kamuela/Waimea, Paniolo Upcountry
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