Destination: Hawaii
Lava fields with hot, flowing rivers of lava! Double rainbows! The winding Road to Hana!! The Arizona Memorial! Books have been written about this island paradise with each island offering its own unique treasures to its visitors. This article is just a taste of the pleasures Hawaii has to offer.
Picture yourself visiting Kilauea, one of the most active volcanoes in the world, or talk story with a cultural demonstrator at Puuhonua o Honaunau, a historic park that was once a place of refuge. Whether you’re walking on a black sand beach, snorkeling with manta rays, horseback riding in Waimea or sailing along the Kona Coast, Hawaii, the Big Island is your island for adventure. The Big Island of Hawaii also boasts Volcano National Park, a Must See! Take the tour to learn about the different types of lava. You’ll actually walk out over the (dried) lava to see hot flowing red rivers of molten rock! Don’t stand still too long!! One gentleman near me was trying for the perfect shot with his camera, and five minutes later the soles of his sneakers had melted into the hot stones! Keep moving! On the opposite side of the island, visit Kona for the world’s best coffee.
Maui is simply lovely. Tranquil beaches beg you to stay! Rent a car to enjoy driving the famous road to Hana for breathtaking scenic views and waterfalls. Watch for double rainbows! But remember, as far as you drive on this twisting, winding road, you will have to turn around to go back!! For even more incredible views, head to Mt. Haleakala. There are tons of sandwich shops at the base of the mountain selling box lunches! Grab one and now you’re ready for the trip to the top. As your road circles round and round, note there aren’t any bathrooms! When you’re about 2/3 of the way to the top, you have to pay a toll to continue. At the top of the mountain, the views are totally incredible. You can see the entire island; you’re above the clouds!! Even if it’s foggy and rainy below, keep going! You’ll still have an incredible view.
Unwind and let the oxygen-rich air of Kauai’s Wailua River invigorate your spirit as you kayak to a cascading waterfall. Or breathe deeply at the edge of the time-swept Waimea Canyon as it speaks to you without words. Snorkel on Poipu Beach. Hike the trails of Kokee State Park. Even go ziplining above Kauai’s lush valleys. But it is the island’s laid-back atmosphere and rich culture found in its small towns and along its one-lane bridges that make it truly timeless.
Oahu’s the timeless memorial of Pearl Harbor, the Arizona Memorial, is a somber, reflective spot to contemplate history. Waikiki Beaches are world famous; you should know it’s in a very busy area, simply a narrow strip of beach between the highway and the ocean. Diamond Head offers wonderful hiking trails. Oahu’s city transportation system is aptly named “TheBus.” Fares are reasonable, routes are extensive and there are special visitor passes for multiple day uses. The trolley system goes to most major tourist attractions and offer tickets for unlimited rides over a certain number of days. While you can rent a car if you prefer, the public transportation system is an excellent option on this busy island of Oahu.
Whether you choose one or two islands for an extended stay, or opt for a cruise to visit many of them in one trip, the islands of Hawaii will remain in your memories for a lifetime.
