The Islands of Hawaii are highly regarded for their formidable surfing attractions and sparkling white sand beaches – but that’s not all this tropical Pacific island paradise can offer travelers that hunger for variety or the thrill of adventure. Hawaii is like a planet unto itself featuring many different microclimates, terrains, and man-made attractions just waiting for you to explore. Many will fascinate you, and some may even send shivers up your spine. Once you have arrived, you may never wish to leave! Here are 10 fantastic things you can do in Hawaii:
1. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Did you ever imagine actually witnessing the flow of molten lava? No need to pinch yourself, because it’s not a dream. In Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island, the Kilauea volcano spews forth liquid fire that explodes with a fury into the Pacific waters, right before your eyes.
2. Mauna Kea - World's Tallest Mountain
Bet you never guessed that the Big Island is the home of one of the most unusual and fun ski slopes on the planet! Mauna Kea is the world’s tallest mountain, measured from the ocean floor. In the winter, alpine skiers take to its volcanic slopes like bees on honey.
3. Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site
If you’re an ancient history buff, the Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site may stir you to the depths of your soul. “Heiau” were sacred places of worship for ancient Hawaiians, and this particular heiau is the largest and most significant on the Big Island.
4. Waipio Valley: "Valley of the Kings"
The Waipio Valley or “Valley of the Kings” on the Big Island exudes tropical beauty in such prolific abundance that your eyes will become drunk on the expansive views. This lush, fertile valley surrounded by cliffs of up to 2,000 ft. high is beautiful beyond words.
5. Iolani Palace
The Iolani Palace is one of the most famous historical landmarks on Oahu. This is where King Kalakaua and later, Queen Lili‘uokalani held lavish parties and conducted the diplomatic affairs of the kingdom. Your attention will be held hostage by the riveting tales of Hawaiian royalty and struggle for power.
6. Wailua River of Kauai
For you kayaking and canoeing enthusiasts, the Wailua River of Kauai will soothe you with hypnotic enchantment. The Wailua River is weaves tranquilly through lush, jungle landscapes, interspersed with breath-taking waterfalls. Kauai has the only navigable rivers in Hawaii and this is one of the best.
7. Molokai's Big Wind Kite Factory
If you are really just a kid at heart and want to have some purely uninhibited, “no-holds-barred” fun, you are in for a treat at Molokai’s Big Wind Kite Factory. You'll find dancing hula girl kites, pineapple windsocks, high-performance stunt kites and more. Even kite-flying lessons are part of the entertainment.
8. Hulopoe Bay
Lanai’s Hulopoe Bay is the snorkeler’s answer to underwater perfection. The deep blue Pacific waters on this part of the island are filled with a treasure trove of colorful ocean creatures and nooks carved from the volcanic rock. Acrobatic Spinner dolphins and humpback whales are known to come close enough to shore to give swimmers a strong sense of connection with nature.
9. Haleakala Crater
Sunrise will never be the same after you have seen it from the crown of Maui’s Haleakala Crater. In the peaks of the crater, you can walk above the clouds or hike across astonishing landscapes, desolate deserts, and wilderness untamed by man. The starry night skies are just as unforgettable.
10. Kona Coffee Plantations
It’s Java time! 100% pure Kona coffee is an exclusive commodity grown only on the Big Island in North and South Kona on the Kona Coffee Plantations. You can visit the coffee plantations and get a satisfying sense of the process of making coffee from beginning to end. Then lose yourself in the luxury of sipping the most divine brew anywhere!
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