Say ALOHA and KOMO MAI (welcome) to Hawaii – a paradise getaway with warm ocean waters and sparkling sandy beaches, peaceful coves and coral reefs, beautiful green landscapes and fascinating scenery, quaint towns and upscale resorts, spectacular waterfalls and active volcanoes and even more. Look around. There is no place on Earth like Hawaii.
Known as ‘Orchid Isle’ or the ‘Volcano Isle’ for travelers and ‘the Big Island’ for its residents, Hawaii attracts around seven million visitors annually, who come to indulge in its endless fun, adventure and entertainment that never fail to amaze. From the historic 18th-century whaling port of Maui – The Valley Isle, to the world-famous Waikiki Beach and the Pearl Harbor of Oahu – The Gathering Place, to the private island experience of petite and pristine Lanai – The Pineapple Island, a hop around islands will reveal you a surprising variety of sights and experiences sure to take your breath away.
The Hawaiian Islands belong to the most remote islands of the world, comprising a string of 132 islands (with a total area of 6,470 sq mi), of which Hawaii is the largest island, while Oahu is the most populous. Other major islands include: Maui, Molokai, Kaui, Kahoolawe and Niihau and Lanai, each with its own charm and a wide range of land and water activities to keep you busy all day long.
Attractions in Hawaii are bountiful and choosing which to see during your Hawaiian escape is no easy task. And as far as a trip or two will surely not be enough to discover all the wonders of even one island, we have piled up the major points of interest that are appreciated by many visitors and are an absolute must for any traveler to this lively hotspot.
Honolulu
The vibrant city of Honolulu (Honolulu meaning ‘bay (Hono) protected’) is the capital of the Hawaii State and an enchanting vacation destination with exciting attractions, historical and cultural landmarks, gorgeous beaches and wonderful shopping and dining opportunities. In short, Honolulu has it all. Do not miss out the historic Hawaii Theatre, the Mission Houses, Aloha Tower and the spectacularly beautiful Waikiki Beach, known in Hawaiian as ‘spouting waters.’
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Big Island
Sprawling over 520 square miles and encompassing Kilauea and Mauna Loa, two of the five volcanoes that formed the Big Island some half a million years ago, Volcanoes National Park is one of the most unique attractions in Hawaii established in 1916. Located at 4,000 feet at height, the park is best discovered on foot. There are over 150 miles of trails in the park and visitors can take volcano tours, accompanied by guides.
Hanauma Bay Nature Reserve, Oahu
Sheltered from the ocean, the Hanauma Bay State Park is a protected marine life conservation area and underwater park in Oahu, which is one of the most popular natural attractions of Hawaii and a renowned destination for snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming, sunbathing and picnicking. Hanauma literally meaning ‘curved bay’ is believed to be 35,000 years old and was formed within a volcanic cone. Hanauma Bay is best known for its abundant marine habitats, including green sea turtles, parrotfish, trumpet fish; and living coral.
Events populate Hawaii all year-round, but if you want to join the largest crowds, Aloha Festivals on Oahu in September and the Ironman World Championship on the amazing Big Islands in October are an ideal choice.