Amidst the fast track life that we all are part of today, some moments of relaxation comes as a boon; more better if spent in nature. Travelling not only familiarizes us with new lands but their culture and history. And never to forget the beautiful experience that comes back home with us. One such scenic beauty with natural scenery, great collection of pristine beaches and surprisingly active volcanoes to add up the list can be found in Hawaii.
One of the recent states to join United States of America in the year 1959, Hawaii is actually located in Oceania and only state to be purely composed of islands. Deriving its name from the name of its largest island ‘Hawaii’, the state consists of seven other islands apart from this and all are permanently inhabited. Honolulu is the capital of the state and the climate is really pleasant because of the near constant trade winds blowing. A fabulous place to visit with family or go enjoying alone, here is a list of 7 must visit spots in Hawaii. Check out-
- The Big Island or The Hawaii Island
The Big Island which is commonly known as the Hawaii Island is purely something you must not miss. With pristine blue water, magical hidden waterfalls and the snow covered mountains, makes the place a favorite for all types of travelers. You can gaze at the lava rocks or go exploring the mountain sides and at the evening sit gazing at the night sky lit by luminous dots. The place has abundant colorful beaches carpeted with black, white and green sand beaches.
- Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park
This spot seems source of interest to many travelers specially the volcanologists and the ones fascinated by natural phenomenon. Located in the Hawaii Island, the Hawaii‘i Volcanoes National Park was established in the year 1916 and offers a scientific peep in to the origin of the Hawaiian Islands. What you as a tourist can expect from here is unusual view of flora and fauna and volcanic landscapes. The place is a World Heritage Site. The National Park encircles two active volcanoes namely the Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, where the former is one of the world’s most active volcanoes and the later is the world’s most massive shield volcano.
- Pearl Harbor
Only if you’ve seen the movie! Well, located in the island of Oahu, Pearl Harbor lies in the west of Honolulu and is the headquarters of the United States Pacific Fleet. You can pay tribute and respect to the heroes of Pearl Harbor and can see the wreckage of the ship that sank in the attack on Pearl Harbor. Take a tour to the Battleships of WWII or chose the Pearl Harbor and Oahu Circle Island Tour; everything is so historic and fascinating. If the history and culture fascinates you, the Historic Honolulu City Tour and the Polynesian Cultural City Tour is something you definitely should try.
- Polynesian Cultural Center
A Polynesian themed park and live museum, the Polynesian Cultural Center is located in Laie on the north of Oahu. The spot is one of the most frequented places in Hawaii and is loved by music lovers. Here you can enjoy demonstrations of various arts and crafts of Polynesia. Get indulged in to the rich heritage, the fun activities like learning traditional customs of the villagers, canoe rides and ukulele lessons. It’s interesting to know that the center is a way to provide employment and scholarships for students and also to preserve their culture. Well, you can upgrade to include a meal and hotel transportation.
- Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden
A stunning nature preserve located on the 4 mile scenic route off of Route 19. The garden is a non-profit botanical garden. Take a trip amidst the orchids; get enchanted by the view of the bamboo waterfall, smile when you see the Hawaiian Red Ginger and feel the cool breeze of the Onomea Bay from the Lower Gardens. The garden has some very alluring waterfalls, streams and a boardwalk along the ocean. Take a glance of the over 2,000 plant species with an impressive collection of varieties of palms, bromeliads and heliconias. More interesting that the garden also has collection of mango and coconut tree which are over 100 years old.
- Waikiki Beach
Located in the island of O‘ahu in Hawaii, the Waikiki Beach is a mesmerizing beach in Honolulu. The word ‘Waikiki’ means spouting fresh water in the Hawaiian language. Back in the 1800s, the beach was a retreat for Hawaiian royalty who surfed there on early versions of longboards. The place is today filled with large beach resorts and hotels. Outdoor performances, surfing competitions, hula dancing are some of the interesting events that takes place annually and becomes center of attractions for tourists.
- Kalalau Lookout
A view in to the center of the Kalalau Valley which is one of the most recognized valleys in Hawaii. Situated at a height of 4,000 feet, the Kalalau Lookout is the highest elevation offering one of the amazing views in Hawaii. The lookout offers stunning view of the Na Pali Coast and the Kalalau Valley. The lookout is the only way to get a glimpse of the Na Pali Coast other than seeing through aerial view from a helicopter. Enjoy all the alluring views of the oceans and the beautiful lands here, the Kalalau Lookout is a must visit spot.
One of the most desired places to visit, Hawaii has a lot to offer. Take a trip to believe!
