Taking the Family to The Big Island

Travel Agent's Joe Pike snapped this photo high above The Big Island onboard Paradise Helicopters.

Family travel season is right around the corner and Travel Agent is armed with some new selling points for vacationing families heading to Hawaii Island, commonly referred to as The Big Island.

Take the Family to The Big Island…and Above It

Paradise Helicopters has launched a new “Family Helicopter Ride & Zipline” adventure, combining ziplining through a rainforest and enjoying a lush botanical garden ground tour with Botanical World Adventures. 

The experience is recommended for multi-generational travelers, a growing segment of visitors to Hawaii Island, as guests can choose to take a leisurely stroll, wander through an herbaceous maze, or soar through the forest canopy.

Visit www.paradisecopters.com

Luxury Condo Offers “Stay and Dine” Package

The oceanfront condo rentals of Mauna Lani Point offer guests a new “Stay and Dine” package, including a fifth night free plus a $200 dining certificate at Ruth’s Chris Steak House. 

With a convenient location at The Shops at Mauna Lani, Ruth’s Chris Steak House offers prime steak and other dishes. In addition, guests of Mauna Lani Point are able to enjoy meals and savings from a gourmet kitchen and at a private barbecue pool pavilion. 

The “Stay and Dine” offer ends December 20. 

Visit www.maunalanipoint.com

Take the Kids to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

The historic Namakanipaio Campground, operated by Hawaii Volcanoes Lodge Company, offers a rustic, one-of-a-kind camping experience within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park that is perfect for families.

The campground is home to 10 recently-refurbished cabins, with upgraded community facilities. Campsites are also available for guests who prefer a more traditional camping experience.

Visit www.hawaiivolcanohouse.com

Take the Family Ziplining with KapohoKine Adventures

Zipline on dual lines with KapohoKine Adventures at Honolii Outpost. The minimum weight for children is 30 pounds. A walking path off to the side of the lines is great for family members who may not want to zip, but still want to be part of the experience.

Visit www.ziplinehi.com

Teach Children About the Environment with Mauna Kea’s New Program

Mauna Kea Beach Hotel is launching "My Mauna Kea," a new environmental and cultural stewardship program in partnership with Mauna Kea Forest Reforestation Project and Hawaii Forest & Trail. 

Volunteer trips may include collecting seeds in an effort to restore the endangered palila (Hawaiian honey creeper), found only on the slopes of Maunakea. The cost to attend is $146 per person and includes transportation, lunch, a guide and all necessary equipment. 

Visit www.princeresortshawaii.com/mauna-kea-beach-hotel

Sheraton’s New Cultural Package Lets Families Explore Old Fishing Village

Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay recently launched its "Cultural Package" to share the story of Kaukulaelae, an ancient Hawaiian fishing village and heiau on its property. Starting at $249 per night, the package includes breakfast for two at Ainakai restaurant, a guided historic land and sea tour of Keauhou, lei greeting and a special cultural amenity, along with lei-making, ukulele and hula lessons. The package also awards a 15 percent discount at the resort's Haleo Luau.

Visit www.sheraton.com

Visit www.gohawaii.com and keep visiting www.travelagentcentral.com for all your Hawaii news. Follow Travel Agent's Joe Pike on Twitter @TravelPike.