Hawaii Vacations

Hawaii has been acclaimed by many as a vacationer's paradise and it indeed lives up to its name. It is the 50^th state of the United States of America and is located at just about the center of the Pacific Ocean on the northeast corner of the Polynesian Islands. A onetime major whaling hub, the island is also a main center of sugar and pineapple production. Hawaii depends mainly on returns from tourism and inflows from the U.S. Military. The state's greatest asset is its natural beauty. Honolulu is the capital as well as the largest city of Hawaii and is a major cultural hub.

The Hawaiian Islands consist of more than 19 separate volcanic islands strewn over a geological hot spot right in the center of the Pacific Ocean. The islands are situated on the Pacific plate, which is gradually moving northwest. As you move further, the islands get older and smaller. Of the eight major islands, six are open to tourism and each is unique in its own way.

The tranquil waters and the floral air of Hawaii is a source of delight to the tourists. The state was gifted the tag of "peaceful land" by none other than Mark Twain himself. Explore and find out for yourself what the thespian cliffs, pulsating shores, and beautiful beaches in Hawaii have to offer.

Big Island

Big Island deserves its name, as it covers over half the area of the state. Its real name is Hawaii, but everyone calls it Big Island to avoid confusion with the name of the state. It is the home to the most active volcano on Earth as well as the largest mountain in the world measured by volume: the massive Mauna Loa. The snow-capped Mauna Kea is the tallest mountain in the world when measured from its base on the sea floor to the peak of the mountain.

Do not miss out on the prehistoric Kilauea Volcano and the rainforests of Hamakua Coast. You can also visit the museums and other points of interest at the place. The list of activities available to a tourist on a holiday to Big Island is never-ending. A few of them include surfing, snorkeling, biking, hiking, sky adventures, and helicopter rides.

Maui

Maui is the 2^nd largest of the Hawaiian Islands. It is popular with visitors who are looking out for the feel of a small town, yet desire sophisticated diversions and world-class amenities. There are many small, cozy towns scattered throughout the island of Maui. It is in Maui that one can find the summit of the crater Haleakala. Do not miss the opportunity to watch the sunrise at this location. Maui has even been voted the "Best Pacific Island." Golf lovers can enjoy teeing off in the golf courses of this region. Whale watching excursions are also a highlight of the area.

Oahu

Oahu is the 3^rd largest and the most populous of the Hawaiian Islands. It is a popular tourist destination in Hawaii mainly because it houses the Honolulu, the capital city, and also over 85 percent of the state's population resides here. The island is nicknamed the "gathering place," and it is the home of the only real city in the islands. For many, this is a mixed blessing. The shores of Waikiki Beach bustle with activity and by themselves reverberate with liveliness. Surfers can look forward to a great time here. The Pearl Harbor and the Iolani palace are the other major attractions.

Kauai

Kauai looks and feels very different from the other Hawaiian Islands. It is the furthermost point located to the northwest of Hawaii's major islands. Owing to its lush rainforest, Kauai has been labeled the Garden Island. Its shape has changed extensively due to erosion, resulting in beautiful canyons and waterfalls. The island also features more sandy beaches than any of the other major Hawaiian Island. Once here, do get atop the cliff of the Napali coast.

Lanai

Lanai Island was once the center of pineapple production. However, it is slowly evolving as a major vacation destination. There is little in the way of hustle and bustle and the dining and accommodation facilities are equally relaxed and friendly. The island has the feel of an unspoiled oasis, a small town-like feel, rather than an urbane and sophisticated atmosphere. You can relax yourselves and catch a glimpse of the spinner dolphins by the serene waters of the Hulopoe Bay. If you are interested in hiking, then the Munro Trail is one of the best where you can view all the other Hawaiian Islands as well.

Molokai

Out of all of the Hawaiian Islands, Molokai is the one that has best stayed in touch with the past and resisted the development and commercialization that have been embraced to a degree by the Big Island, Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and even Lanai. Focusing more on eco-tourism, Molokai has managed to stay untouched. The reason might be the large concentration of native Hawaiians living in the place. Molokai is famous for its white sandy beaches, the most popular amongst them being the Papohaku Beach.