Hawai'i
Why Hawai'i?
Variety. You can always find a new adventure in Hawai'i. From the jungles of Kauai'i to the volcanoes of the Big Island, and from the waters of Maui to the historical sites of O'ahu, Hawai'i is a place that you'll want to come back to over and over again.
Aloha. While landscapes might differentiate the islands, what ties them together is culture and the Aloha Spirit. Aloha is about spreading love and respect - to yourself, each other, and the land (Aloha 'Aina). For the traveler this means you'll enjoy amazing hospitality and beautiful protected places.
Adventures
Honolulu/Waikiki
Many travelers will head to O'ahu on their first trip to the islands, and for good reason. Honolulu houses 'Iolani Palace, the only royal palace on US soil, as well as Pearl Harbor and other historical landmarks. Waikiki is home to the most visited beach in Hawai'i as well as the state's biggest offerings for cuisine, shopping, and nightlife. And if you want to escape the city, you'll find great hiking and snorkeling within close range.
Road to Hana
The famed Road to Hana on Maui starts in the small town of Haiku at mile marker zero and ends at the black sand beach at Wai'anapanapa State Park. The 64 miles of highway between them has 620 curves and 59 bridges. You can (and should) stop along the way to hike to waterfalls, enjoy fresh, warm banana bread, and just enjoy the views. Beyond Hana, you'll want to make time for the 7 Sacred Pools and Pipiwai Trail in Haleakala National Park.
Snorkel/SCUBA
The main islands all have magical places to explore beneath the waves. On the Kona Coast of Hawai'i you can night snorkel with giant manta rays. On Maui you can get a boat ride out to Molokini Crater for colorful coral and fish. Hanauma Bay on O'ahu is great for beginners. And on Kaua'i's Napili Coast you can dive among caves and lava tubes. Honu - green sea turtles - are abundant year-round; and if you visit in winter, you'll likely hear whale song while you're underwater.
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Hawaii seduces the imagination. It's the perfect postcard - no props, no fillers.
-Robert Wintner
Hawai'i Travel Information
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Population: 1.45 million, 2/3 of whom live on O'ahu
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Size: 10,931 sq mi, 6,423 of it on land
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Most unique experience: attending a traditional luau
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National Parks: 2, plus 7 other National Historical Parks, Monuments, and Sites
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Most unique place: Hawaii Volcanoes NP
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Endemic species: 8,760
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Most unique plant: Silversword Ferns, only found on 3 places on earth (all on Hawaiian volcanoes)
