Archive for July, 2008

Traveling Around the Hawaiian Islands

Travel Oahu

Looking to get away from the busy city and have a vacation lounging on the beach? If spending your days under the sun is your ideal vacation, you should consider traveling around the Hawaiian Islands.

The Hawaiian Islands are the closest thing to paradise on earth. With a rainbow of cultures coloring the islands history, and the aloha spirit permeating every corner, its easy to see why a stay on these islands would be pleasant. Hawaiis natural beauty will replace your usual urban scenery and give you a breath of fresh air.

As you wander through the different islands, you will quickly discover the unique beauty that graces all the islands. The six main islands you can visit are Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, and the Big Island. Each island offers extraordinary experiences, for you, your family or your business group.

Kauai is the oldest and northernmost of the main islands. You can access this island by plane, which lasts about 20 minutes. Kauai is lovingly called the Garden Island because of the green forests that blanket this island.

Things to do in Kauai:

· Explore Kauais famous Na Pali Coast by means of foot, boat, kayak or helicopter ride

· Hike or drive to Waimea Canyon, the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, Kauais main attraction.

· Kayak or take a boat cruise up the Wailua River and visit the hidden Fern Grotto

Described to have an ageless and natural beauty is Oahu. Home to the states capital, this island is called the Gathering Place as most of Hawaiis population calls this island home. This island is diverse in local culture, many people flock to this islands shores for world-class surfing competitions. With a bustling metropolitan city, there is no shortage of things to do on this island.

Things to do in Oahu:

· Surf or sunbathe on the sands of world-famous Waikiki Beach

· Watch professional surfers compete along Oahus North Shore.

· Visit Oahus natural landmarks: Diamond Head, Punchbowl, and Koko Head craters

· See history at Pearl Harbor, and pay respects at the USS Arizona Memorial· · Visit the only palace on United States grounds, Iolani Palace

· Dress up and dine at one of the many 5 star restaurants that call this island home

Molokai is perfect for finding peace and serenity. Dubbed the Friendly Island, the locals here will treat you like family. This island is free from traffic, high-rises and nightclubs, so it is perfect for getting away from busy city streets.

Things to do in Molokai:

· Hike through the virtually untouched Halawa Valley

· Visit the famous leper colony at Kalaupapa National Historical Park, which is only accessible by mule, foot or place

· Go boating along Molokais northern shore and see the worlds tallest sea cliffs

Lanai is the quietest of the Hawaiian Islands, idyllic for romantic getaways. Called the Pineapple Island, the services are here are as sweet as the fruit. You will find a luxurious resort, world-class golf course, and quite simply, have a vacation with comfort, style and grace.

Things to do in Lanai:

· Hike up the Munro Trail and view the breathtaking sights of other islands

· Rent an ATV and view the lunar-like terrain of Keahiakwelo

· Visit Hulopoe Bay and catch glimpses of dolphins at play

· Enjoy a round of golf at the two championship courses: Challenge of Manele and the Experience of Koele

Maui has been voted the Best Hawaiian Island. Called the Valley Isle for the two mountain ridges on the islands east and west coasts, you will surely find many outdoor activities to enjoy.

Things to do in Maui:

· Whale watch between the months of December and May and catch a glimpse of the magnificent humpback whale

· Take a scenic drive along the picturesque Hana Highway

· Visit Iao Valley and look at the volcanic rock known as Iao Needle

· Explore Haleakala Crater and enjoy the sunrise on top of this dormant volcano

· Visit museums, shops and restaurants in the historic Lahaina town

The youngest and largest of the Hawaiian Islands is the Big Island. It is nicknamed the Volcano Isle as it is home to the most active volcano in the world. It is the most varied island and also the most untouched, leaving you do to all the exploring.

Things to do in the Big Island:

·Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and view the active lava flow at Kilauea

·Explore the waters of Kona and Kohala by kayaking, snorkeling or scuba diving

·Visit Pu’ukohola Heiau, an ancient Hawaiian temple

·Soak in the lush and tropical landscape of Hilo Bay and Queen Liliuokalani Gardens

·Enjoy the view atop the snow-capped summit of Mauna Kea

With this overview of the main Hawaiian Islands, start mapping out your own Hawaiian vacation. Each of these islands have something to offer, and luckily, you wont have to choose just one.