Islands of Hawaii

Nicknamed the “Big Island,” it is the most geographically diverse of its neighbors and contains everything from lush rainforests to a snowy mountain peak. With such diversity, there are a variety of outdoor activities available for visitors. Relaxing and rejuvinating is also a high priority as well, with miles of uncrowded beaches beckoning you. Key cities on Hawaii include Hilo and Kailua-Kona. Here are a few of the most popular things to do:

1. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park—Home to several active volcanoes, including the famous Kilauea, it’s possible to see the different points in the life of a volcano, from a dormant cone to seething red and black lava.
2. Mauna Kea—Trick your friends when you tell them you’ve climbed to the top of the world’s tallest mountain. It’s Mauna Kea, as measured from the ocean floor. You can even tell them you’ve played in the snow in Hawaii—they’ll never believe it until they see pictures. Enjoy the view and stay late to marvel at the starry sky.
3. Puukohola Heiau—See a heiau, or place of worship, constructed by the Hawaiian people in 1791. This stone temple is set in a peaceful location and you’ll learn about Hawaiian history and culture. It’s also a great place to whale-watch.
4. Hilo—The largest city on the island, Hilo is home to several museums, art galleries, marinas, shopping venues and restaurants. The city has an old feel to it that adds to its charm. Choose from among a variety of uniquely Hawaiian activities, such as riding in a traditional sailing canoe, attend a luau or purchase an armful of tropical flowers at a farmer’s market.

Oahu holds the only metropolitan area in the Hawaiian Islands (Honolulu), and it is the center for commerce and industry in the state. With the highest concentration of people in all the Hawaiian islands, Oahu offers the most diverse cultural identities in the state. With so much to experience on Oahu, here are some of the most popular attractions:

1. The North Shore—It’s an extremely popular tourist destination, and most choose to get into the water in some form or another, whether its snorkeling, boating, diving, swimming or (the king of all water sports) surfing!
2. Dole Plantation—Get a peek at the inner workings of a pineapple plantation via a guided tour and stop by the gift shop and tasting center where you’ll enjoy fresh-picked pineapple samples. There are several different activities for the whole family on site as well.
3. Polynesian Cultural Center—Truly a magnificent establishment, the center provides details and insight into the various cultures of Polynesia via exhibits, music, dancing and food. It’s a spectacular way to familiarize yourself with the rich cultural heritage of the Pacific Islanders.
4. Waikiki Aquarium—If you don’t see what you want via snorkeling, check out this fine marine science institution. Located adjacent to a living coral reef on the shoreline, the aquarium provides visitors with a look at the thousands of plants and animals that call the ocean home. Thousands of visitors each year visit this wonderful attraction.

Nicknamed the “Island of Discovery,” Kauai is blessed with some of the most spectacular scenery in the Pacific. Take in the canyons, cliffs, waterfalls and beaches that make this northern island so popular. However, rest and relaxation on the white sandy beaches also ranks high on the list of the Kauai visitor’s things to do. Whether you are based in Waimea, Kapaa or Poipu, the cities are friendly and fun. Here are some ideas to get you started:

1. Waimea Canyon—Often called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” this amazing natural canyon shows off some of nature’s best work. Rugged cliffs and deep plunging gorges thrill and delight visitors from several overlooks. For the truly brave, hiking trails are marked for a descent on foot to the tumbling river below.
2. Wailua River—After seeing the two spectacular waterfalls, Opaekaa and Wailua Falls, the river tumbles through the countryside, providing excellent kayaking experiences. Paddle by rainforests and fields and see Kauai from an entirely different point of view.
3. Napali Coast—Surely the most postcard-worthy of Hawaii’s scenery, this lush coast is made up of green cliffs, plunging waterfalls and blue ocean. Choose to hike the 11-mile trail in, or take a boat or helicopter tour, as there are no roads to this spectacular corner of Kauai.
4. Smith Family Garden Luau—After the tour of the botanical grounds spanning 30 acres, enjoy a traditional Hawaiian luau, complete with roast pig, poi and more. Dancing and music complete the experience and prepare yourself for the theatrical volcano eruption at the beginning of the show.You’ll see dances from many cultures along the Pacific Rim, giving you the chance to appreciate the beauty and diversity of the region.

This island has the perfect blend of big city delights and classic Hawaiian peace and quiet. Plenty of golfing, hiking and biking give the outdoor enthusiast something to do, while the pretty beaches provide swimming, surfing, snorkling and whale watching. Stick to the cities of Kiehi, Kahului, Lahaina and Hana for top-notch entertainment and dining options. Here are just a few of the best attractions on Maui:

1. Haleakala National Park—The world’s largest volcano dominates the scene and the view from the top is well worth the time to get there. Take in a sunrise or a sunset if you can—the sight is like nothing else on earth. Several hiking trails lead to the top as well as a road through the national park. However, resist the temptation to take home a piece of the mountain as a souvenir. Bad luck is associated with those who do and the park service receives thousands of returned rocks in the mail each year from distressed former visitors, hoping to break the curse.
2. Lahaina—Take a guided tour or walking tour of this historic whaling village turned tourist haven. Stroll through art galleries, open air cafes, restaurants and shops on Front Street, which parallels the beach. The city is also a fine place to take a whale-watching tour or just spot them from shore, as the waters off Lahaina are the winter grounds for humpbacks.
3. Makena Beach—Hawaii has many spectacular beaches, but Makena Beach is one of the best around. Yellow sand and blue waters combine to create a classic tropical beach, and swimming, snorkling, kayaking and surfing are all first-rate. Since this beach is usually less crowded than many others, it’s a true hidden treasure.
4. Hana Highway—This scenic route is 52 miles from Kahului, and leads to the secluded town of Hana. The road is full of wonderful views, but also narrow bridges and tight turns. Once there, see such undeveloped sights as Oeho Gulch pools and Waimoku Falls.

These two islands are often overlooked in favor of their spectacular neighbors, but they are no less of the Hawaiian experience. Adventures in such cities as Kaunakakai, Kalupapa and Lanai City are on a more personal level and in many ways are more of the true Hawaiian culture, unfiltered for tourists’ consumption. Here are a few things to do on these two smaller islands:

1. Halawa Valley—Hidden places of worship dot the rugged cathedral valley, making it one of the more sacred places in all the islands. Hike through the lush rainforest to the Mooula Falls with a guide to discover the valley’s local lore. (Molokai)
2. Dolphins at Hulopoe Bay—Besides the standard beach activities, visitors to this remote beach can also watch humpback whales and Spinner dolphins leap from the waters. Considered one of the best beaches in Hawaii, it’s popular with the locals as well. (Lanai)