Hawaii, More Than Amazing Beaches
Ho’okipa, the word for Hawaiian hospitality, also known as the Aloha spirit, emanates from the people you encounter. It is no wonder that on the top on many wish lists, you will find Hawaii. From Volcanoes to reefs, black sand beaches (white, green, and red too), rainforests, coffee plantations, and 80 golf courses, Hawaii has much more to offer than stunningly beautiful beaches. Let's not forget historical sites as well, such as Pearl Harbor and the USS Missouri. Most islands are easy to maneuver by car and the best way to see this island. So how do you decide which Island is for you? Here is a brief description of each Island to help you decide and don't forget a Luau while there!
Hawaii – The Aloha State
The Island of Hawaii, known to some as the Big Island, is geologically the newest of the islands has the most diverse terrain of the islands. Rainforests, snowy mountain peaks, molten magma fields, pasturelands, and black sand beaches are all part of the wonderous landscape. Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park and Akaka Falls State park are not to be missed. This island has stunning overlooks, stargazing, great golf courses, and cowboys! This is another great island for first time visitors, there is so much here you can’t do it all in one trip.
Oahu – The Gathering Place
Oahu is the 3rd largest Island with a volcanic topography. It boasts some of the most well know sites from Waikiki Beach, Downtown Honolulu, Diamond Head, Punchbowl crater, and the Pearl Harbor memorial. Oahu offers great shopping, dining, and of course surfing. After all, it is the home of the famous Banzai pipeline. Simply called pipeline or the pipe by locals. The landscape varies with beach, pasture lands, and a dormant volcano with lava tubes to explore! Oahu is even home to a Dole plantation. Get out and explore this wonderful island. This island is great for first time visitors to the islands.
Maui – The Valley Isle
Maui is home to luxury resorts, dining, boutiques, white-sand beaches, and charming small towns. If you want to see marine life, Maui is where to go. In fact, it may be the best place in the world to see whales. Each year, 10,000 to 20,000 humpback whales swim from Alaska to Hawai'i. Head to Haleakala National Park and visit the crater for an amazing sunrise, you won’t be sorry!
Kaua’I – The Garden Isle
Kaua’I is geologically, the oldest Island and 80% of the Island is inaccessible by car, leaving its natural beauty a site to behold. With countless waterfalls, sea cliffs rising to 4,000 feet, sea caves, water sports, horseback riding, ziplines, and the famous Waimea Canyon, there is much for the nature-lover to do. Not into Nature? Try one of the numerous golf courses, beaches, spas, or shopping perhaps?
Moloka’I – The Friendly Isle
Moloka'i is only 38 miles long and ten miles wide. But don't let that deter you from this secluded island, it also has the world's highest sea cliffs, beautiful vistas, waterfalls, and longest continuous fringing reef. Make sure to visit Kalaupapa National Historical Park and see an isolated former leper colony below the towering cliffs. Reservations required so call ahead. The site can also be viewed from the cliff top Kalaupapa Lookout in Palaau State Park. Golfing, fishing, hiking, and snorkeling are all memory-makers on this little island.
Lana’I – The Pineapple Island
Lana'i is the smallest inhabited island in the chain and contains ancient rock sculptures, waterfalls, and some of the best spots for snorkeling. Off the shore of Kaiolohia you will see a WWII Liberty Ship that was marooned on the reef. Enjoy this sight while hiking or walking along the beach. This is not a beach for swimming though. It also boasts 2 of the most prestigious golf courses in the world; Maneli Bay and Ko’ele This Island is made for off the beaten path adventures and you’ll find all 4 seasons on this island so pack appropriately. Take a hike on a rustic trail or visit red rocks of Keahiakawelo.
Island hopping is great but each Island is unique and offers so much, that it is hard to fit is all in. We recommend picking one island and focus on that island. That said, you can catch ferries to close islands, or inter-island planes if you want to stay for a while and experience few. Cruises will also do the rounds of the Islands and you don’t have to repack.
We are here to explain all the options and offer advice based on your interests. Schedule a consultation today and let's start planning an adventure to your most memorable vacation.
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