What should I wear?
The temperature ranges from 68 to 88 on the Big Island. Bring less than you think you’ll need. Suggested items:
- Shorts
- Short sleeve/sleeveless shirts
- Light Rain Jacket
- Swimsuit
- Sweatshirt or long sleeve cover up
- Water shoes or vibram five fingers (Nice but not necessary. Beaches and trails have lava rock.)
- Long or short sleeve rash guard is (Again, nice but not necessary. The water temperature remains around 78 degrees so warmth is usually not a factor, however you will have access to beautiful reefs which can be sharp should you accidentally come into contact while in the water. Can be helpful for boogie boarding.
- Closed toed shoes
- Open toed shoes
- Hat
What is the terrain like?
Of the 13 major life zones found in the world, 11 are found in Hawaii. That is the greatest number found in the smallest area in the world. Life zones are areas of distinctive plant and animal forms like deserts, grasslands, and tropical rain forests. You can find yourself at sea level with a bikini on or at the top of Mauna Kea which is nearly 14,000 feet and at certain times of the year, find yourself in snow while in the tropics!
The Island has mountains, meadows, palm trees, white, black and green sand beaches, lava flats beach, teal blue waters which are known to be healing in many ways as the rest of the Island has been described with it’s rich plant life, volcano, and clear salt water.
Do you have cell service, internet service, or cable tv?
The Big Island has Verizon, AT & T, and T-mobile cell towers. You should be able to get cell service in most places.
There is high speed wireless Internet available on the entire property. Once you arrive you’ll be given the access code and you’ll be able access the Internet at much faster speeds than most of the hotels in the area. It is preferable that you bring your own laptop, however there is a computer available for use should you not have one.
There is no TV in your Ohana. When we made the move to Hawaii we sold our TV and found ourselves without one in our home for the first time really in our adult lives. What a great thing it has turned out to be.
Should I bring my laptop?
Yes. Though I’d like to give you the opportunity to disconnect from the noise of your computer, there are advantages to having access to local places through the intranet. As well, you will be given worksheets to invent on and retreat only information. The Island is a wonderful collection of people who are about sustaining the beauty and magic of this Island and recycling or not using what you don’t need is part of Island life. We print as little as possible and don’t miss all the paper work laying around as a result.
Can I come with a friend?
You are welcome to bring a friend. While there is a per person charge, there are economies to booking together. You can either share a queen size bed or use an inflatable bed that we will provide for the second guest.
Your friend can share in as much of the activities with you as you would like. It creates a great opportunity to start your own support net while making changes that may seem difficult on your own.
Will there be time for me to explore?
Yes. All retreats are set up to include time for you to relax, unwind and do exactly what you want. This is the time to start practicing how to do incorporate this time in your daily life.
Should I plan on eating out or dining in?
You’ll have your own kitchen and refrigerator so you can eat in or out. You’ll be able to plan your meals just the way you want them with access to the Natural Foods Store, Local Farmers Markets, and an organic deli for prepared healthy meals. You’ll also have the inside scoop on all the best local restaurants on the Big Island.
Is there anything special I need to bring?
The Big Island Dog Retreat rule is bring less than you think you’ll need. Make this an opportunity to start living light and experience what it’s like to live with just the necessities.
See the list of recommended items above and feel free to contact me with specific questions about other things you might need.
Do I need to rent a car?
Yes. The Big Island is large and very diverse. See the resources page (add link) for more information on car rentals.
Should I bring my bike or can I rent one?
You can bring your bike or you can rent one here depending on your relationship with your bike. Bike Works has bikes available at any level. They also have a service to unpack your bike, assemble and tune for a great price if you are bringing your own.
What other sporting equipment is available?
There is snorkel gear, boogie boards, beach mats, towels and sundries available. We’ll get you the best places to rent everything else like kayaks, stand up paddle boards, surf boards and other things to go play with.
If you have other questions, just ask.