Hawaii Vacation Ideas
There's no place on earth like Hawaii.
"The fresh, floral air energizes you. The warm, tranquil waters refresh you. The breathtaking, natural beauty renews you." From gohawaii.com
The deep blue waters surrounding the Hawaiian islands are more than a playground for surfers, swimmers, scuba divers, and kayakers. They are truly a National Treasure, but there is more to Hawaii than its waters.
A vibrant culture thrives in the shadows of volcanoes, under a canopy of lush trees. Lush mountains hiking trails on Kauai and Molokai become a maze of geological history waiting to be solved.
Hawaii is a different kind of paradise and sitting by the hotel pool is only one way to unwind and enjoy these islands.
Kauai
Sprawling jungles are waiting to be explored on this Hawaiian island. Waterfalls, 3000-foot-high sea cliffs of the Kalalau Trail and kayaking down the Wailua River to the Coconut Coast are only a few of the natural wonders to explore on the island of Kauai.
The unique landscape will put a smile on your face as wide as the big island. Kauai also offers activities, such as tube riding, kayaking, sailing, and water sports galore.
Pack your hiking boots so you can hike and camp on the Napali Coast. The most popular hike on Kauai is the challenging, 11-mile Kalalau trail.
Kauai is a scenic paradise and nowhere is that more apparent than on the north shore's Napali Coast.
Oahu
You can feel the sand shake as the sea pounds the shore wave after wave. Fearless surfers shoot out of the barrels of twenty-foot tall walls of rolling water.
The North Shore of Oahu is arguably the best surfing in the world and is not for the faint of heart. Most of us would be happy on the south shore of Waikiki where the average water lover can have there fun.
Every water activity you can think of is a possibility on Oahu; diving, snorkeling, fishing, kayaking, parasailing, and the list goes on.
Oahu's thirty-five trails are not to be out done buy the ocean. Some of Oahu's trails may be difficult to access for visitors, so consider taking a guided hike. It will show you a hidden beauty of Oahu's that not every visitor gets to see.
Hike to the top of Diamond Head for a panoramic view of Waikiki. Exploring the scenic brilliance of Oahu on a hike will do wonders for your stress.
Diamond Head sits along the skyline just beyond Waikiki. This 760-foot tuff crater is one of Hawaii's most famous landmarks.
Called Leahi (brow of the tuna) by ancient Hawaiians, it was named Diamond Head by 19th century British sailors who thought they discovered diamonds on the crater's slopes.
Diamond Head is a popular hiking destination with panoramic views of Waikiki and Oahu's south shore. The stunning views at the top of Diamond Head are well worth the effort.
Molokai
Molokai is well worth the travel if relaxation is on the top of your list.
The Kamakou Preserve is a precious Hawaiian landmark. If you take a tour of Kamakou Preserve you will see many endangered plants and rare birds.
Hiking through the sacred "cathedral valley" of Halawa to Mooula Falls is breathtaking. Go to Molokai and see a side of Hawaii that many visitors never see.
Lanai
Lania is the land of true adventurs, you can hike a rigorous 11-mile trail up Mount Lanaihale for an overwhelming view of the five other islands on a clear day.
Shipwreck Beach is another astonishing place. Hike an 8-mile stretch of beach and see the husk of a ship claimed by the reef many years ago.
Lanai is 89,000 acres of countryside and not a single stoplight. This is a city slikers dream come true! No Stop Lights!
Lanai is the perfect place for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and many other of your favorite sports.
Not to leave out the water sports, Hulopoe Bay is where you should go for diving and snorkeling.
Maui
For most visitors, your first adventure on this island will not be your last.Sunrise from atop Haleakala Crater is an unforgettable experience, not to mention the breathtaking views of valleys and waterfalls.
Maui is a prime vacation spot for just about anyone.
Cool upcountry uplands are fantastic places to take a horseback ride. Hike along waterfalls and witness rainbows while the sond of rushing water melts away that other pjart of life.
Haleakala National Park is massive and full of views that will take your breath away.
Take the Halemauu Trail or the Keeneheehee (sliding sands) trail down from the crater and see volcanic landscapes, mountainous wilderness, and rare plants like the silversword.
Other popular Maui hiking spots include Iao Valley Park and the Pipiwai trail to 400-foot Waikmoku Falls.
Oh yea, I almost forgot about the water sports.
Scuba diving here is also unforgettable. Luminous waters and ocean life that is as alien as you can imagine will blow your mind. Also Humpback whales are abound in Wailea.
Big Island of Hawaii
The Kilauea Volcano is not the only thing to see here. This island is full of hidden waterfalls, lush valleys, and balmy beaches.
Hawaii's Big Island is known as "The Island of Adventure." 4,028 square miles of land (and still growing), hiking, biking, and horseback riding give you a great view of the many volcanic formations.
Going to Hawaii well equipped? Backpack and stay overnight in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park's backcountry. You need a permit so see a Ranger before you start out.
The park displays the results of 70 million years of volcanism, migration, and evolution. The park highlights two of the world's most active volcanoes, and offers insights on the birth of the Hawaiian Islands as well as views of dramatic volcanic landscapes.
With lava deserts to tropical rainforests, you can engage in every imaginable outdoor activity on the Big Island of Hawaii.
Hike along the 150 miles of trails at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to get a true feel for how these magnificent islands have been formed over time.
Traveling light? Take a day hike on Chain of Craters Road or hike through the Thurston Lava Tube, Devastation Trail.
If you are up for a challenge hike the Crater Rim trail, which encircles the summit of Kilauea Volcano's caldera. Be sure to pack comfortable shoes when you visit Hawaii's Big Island.
Weather
No matter what island you are on you need to be prepared for all weather conditions. Wear layers of clothing, bring raingear, and wear hiking boots or shoes if you plan to venture out on trails. Island weather is a little unpredictable but mostly delightful.
I don't think I need to say this, but, Enjoy your Vacaton!