Exploring LGBTQ+ Friendly Fall Adventures in Hawai‘i Island

Hawai'i, the enchanting paradise in the heart of the Pacific, offers a world of breathtaking beauty, rich culture, and unforgettable adventures. From the emerald valleys and cascading waterfalls to the golden sands and vibrant coral reefs, each island of Hawai'i presents its own unique charm and allure. In this travel article, we'll explore the must-see destinations, hidden gems, and cultural experiences that make Hawai'i a top destination for travelers seeking a blend of natural wonders and authentic Hawaiian traditions. Whether you're looking to surf the legendary waves, hike through lush rainforests, or simply unwind on a tranquil beach, Hawai'i Island promises an experience like no other. Here are some activities and events to do this fall:

The Umauma Experience’s all-new E-Bike Culture and Swim Tour immerses guests in Hawai‘i Island's natural beauty as they pedal e-bikes through beautiful landscapes and vistas, including the property’s triple-tier waterfall. The company’s knowledgeable guides lead guests on a narrated journey sharing information on Hawai‘i trees, plants and culture. At a traditional hale (house), guests learn about the importance of kalo (taro) to the Hawaiian diet, the medicinal uses of kukui (candlenut) and the resourcefulness of the niu (coconut). For more information or reservations, visit https://umaumaexperience.com/ or call (808) 930-9477.

Set out for the ocean this fall with Hawaii Nautical on its Spirit of Aloha sunset sail for a snorkel and sail adventure along the gorgeous Kona coast. The tour explores the island of Hawai‘i’s stunning underwater world, showcasing crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life and breathtaking coral reefs. The vessel offers on-board amenities and spacious decks, and guests enjoy a picnic lunch and beverages. For more information or reservations, visit www.hawaiinautical.com. 

Kona Salt Farm invites IRONMAN Championship triathletes to visit for pre-race preparation and post-race recovery. The farm is spotlighting its naturally made deep-ocean magnesium spa baths and magnesium drops, crafted to help athletes overcome travel fatigue, stress, sleep issues and cramping. Athletes can also enjoy invigorating 47 F cold deep ocean water foot soaks in the farm’s ocean-view cabana. From October 20 through 30, guests can enjoy 10% off all magnesium, salt and foot soaks, with proceeds supporting the Ironman Foundation, which benefits racing communities. For more information, visit https://konaseasalt.com/pages/kona-sea-salt-farm-tours. 

Discover the beauty of Hawai‘i Island from above with Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours, a local-run small business offering private aerial adventures. On tours this fall, experience breathtaking views of the island’s diverse landscapes — from volcanic craters to lush rainforests and more — on tours designed for all adventure seekers. For more information or to book a tour, visit https://maunaloahelicoptertours.com/.

In partnership with Kuleana Rum Works, the Four Seasons Resort Hualālai’s new Hualālai Rum Farm Tour offers guests of the resort an opportunity to visit the island of Hawai‘i-based rum producer’s farm and distillery to learn about its 40 varieties of Hawaiian heirloom sugar cane and the storied history of sugarcane in Hawai‘i. Also part of the collaboration with Kuleana Rum Works, the resort’s signature Hui Hui Hualālai Blend was developed for sipping and mixing cocktails, with flavors highlighting fruity and earthy notes. For more information or reservations, visit www.fourseasons.com/hualalai or call (808) 325-8000.

Celebrate Aloha Fridays with Sip and Lei at Fairmont Orchid. You’ll learn the art of crafting a fresh lei with the resort’s director of Hawaiian culture, Kaʻiulani Blankenfeld, while enjoying two crafted mai tais on the lānai (porch) of the Luana Lounge. This recurring activity is for adults ages 21 and older only, is open to the public and costs $50-plus per person. 

Hawai‘i Island macadamia nut producer Mauna Loa has brought the unique taste of macadamias to the world since 1946. At its Mauna Loa Visitor Center, just outside of Hilo on the island’s east side, guests are invited to sample longtime Mauna Loa macadamia nut flavors and products, including sea salt and garlic onion, as well as newer products like macadamia milk ice cream. Visitors can also enjoy a nature walk, read about the history of Hawai‘i’s macadamia industry and pick up Mauna Loa merchandise and local-crafted goods from Mana Up Hawaiʻi. For more information, visit Mauna Loa Visitor Center’s website.

Greenwell Farms offers complimentary tours of its vertically integrated, seed-to-cup farm operation in Kealakekua daily from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Guests on the tour journey into the history, biodiversity and sustainable farm practices of modern-day coffee farming. Since 1850, Greenwell Farms has continuously strived for a legacy of quality and care for its land in everything it does, producing some of Hawai‘i’s most award-winning coffees. For more information, visit https://www.greenwellfarms.com/. 

Upcoming Events:

The 14th annual Hawaiʻi Food & Wine Festival (HFWF) returns with an impressive lineup of events this fall at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. HFWF 2024’s three-island series of culinary events kicks off on Hawai‘i Island on October 19 with Lucky Dragon, celebrating the strength, wisdom and auspiciousness of the mythical creature through the flavors of Asia. From tastes of China to the delicacies of Japan, and multiple cuisines in between, event participants will enjoy dishes of Asia spotlighting some of Hawaiʻi’s best local ingredients in an evening celebration of Asian American culinary excellence. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit https://hawaiifoodandwinefestival.com/events/lucky-dragon/!

In 2024 the VinFast IRONMAN World Championship in Kailua-Kona, Hawai‘i will host the very best male professional and age group triathletes from around the world. Their 140.6-mile/ 226km journey will present the ultimate test of body, mind and spirit. The historic KONA® race will take athletes through the clear waters of Kailua Bay, along the wind-swept coast, and through the barren lava fields of the island of Hawai‘i, where strength, grit and heart must be summoned to navigate challenging race conditions, and island heat. Through 40+ years of stellar athletic prowess, emotional performances and inspiring achievements, the IRONMAN World Championship has etched a reputation as the pinnacle of the triathlon landscape and an iconic global sporting event. In 2024, the men return to the KONA® race to show the world that "Anything is Possible!" For more information, visit https://www.ironman.com/im-world-championship-kona. 

The aroma of fresh-brewed coffee is sure to fill the air when the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival kicks off in the heart of Hawai‘i Island’s Kona coffee-growing region November 1 through 10. Celebrating 200 years of tradition and community, the festival also presents the vibrancy of Hawaiian culture through hula, music performances and art exhibitions. Event attendees are encouraged to engage with local coffee farmers, roasters and experts on Kona coffee and its history. Purchase a $5 festival admission button to best enjoy its 10 days of fun and celebrate the legacy of Kona coffee. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit https://konacoffeefest.com/. 

Photo Credits: Greenwell Farms and Hawaii Nautical and Kona Coffee Cultural Festival