Part shopping excursion, part nature tour, this journey has something for everyone. Driving to Waimea feels as though you are travelling back to the old west. The rugged lava gives way to the gentle rolling hills populated by Hawaiian Cowboys. Rusted fences dot the green pastureland where cattle still graze. We stop in Waimea for two reasons, hot malasadas and antique shopping. The Hot Malasadas are Hawaii's version of the donut, and they are definitely worth having. Then visit Waimea Galleries, the best antique store on the island. Continue on to Honoka'a for some more antique shopping and Akaka Falls for a little walk up to a breathtaking waterfall.

When we arrive at Hilo, we enjoy a nice lunch at one of the many fine Japanese restaurants. Hilo is what all of Hawaii used to look like, a quaint western town somehow magically scooped up from Colorado and transplanted onto the tropical shores of Hawaii. In fact, if it didn't rain so often, it would be paradise. After lunch, check out the town and then head home, if possible, via the saddle road dividing the two volcanoes.