By Mark Rolfing

Hawaii Island is the largest in the Hawaiian chain…the land mass covers an area more than twice the size of all the other islands combined. But to me, the thing that makes this island so unique is its diversity…in both it’s topography and wide range of climates. While the topography, particularly the massive volcanic mountains, gets most of the attention, it is the wide diversity of climates that makes Hawaii Island so intriguing.

Consider this fact: of the 11 known climates on earth, an amazing 9 of them can be found on Hawaii Island. The resulting environments range from arctic, snow-capped peaks on the top of the world’s tallest mountain, Mauna Kea…to tropical rain forests that hug the ocean. Consequently, the variety and quality of experiences and activities is incredible. Where else could you snow ski and snorkel in the warm pacific, and probably get in a round of golf, on the same day? That, is the essence of diversity you will find on Hawaii Island!