Top things to do in the Hawaiian Islands
Hawaii is made up of numerous islands, and most of them deserve a place on every travel itinerary. Read on for a list of some of the major islands, and what all they have to offer.
1. Oahu
The most populous island on the state, Oahu is home to the Hawaiian capital Honolulu. Oahu keeps you busy with the USS Arizona Memorial on Pearl Harbor, sightseeing at the Diamond Head volcanic tuff cone, the ‘Iolani Palace, and the Waikiki beach. The island is also dotted with aquariums, sea life parks, spas and resorts. One can shop at Oahu’s finest malls or head for the water for active days full of adventure sport. Get there fast and then take it slow!
2. The Big Island
Home to Kilauea, the Earth’s most active volcano, the Big Island is the only place on the planet where you can watch molten lava dripping into the Pacific! Hike into the island’s rain forests, get that adrenaline pumping with some adventure sport, or take a dip in the waterfalls of Kohala. Your to-do list should also include bird watching at its national parks and visits to the coral reefs, where leaping dolphins and humpback whales are the main attractions.
Read more: Volcano tourism: where to go for lava love
3. Maui
Famous for its sandy beaches, Maui is the place to go if you want to enjoy a sun bath or surf. For the adventure inclined, there are a number of hiking trails and ridge tops offering surreal views of the island. Some of the world’s best golf courses are located on Maui. Tea time or tee time – Maui is the place to go to!
4. Kauai
The oldest and the sunniest island on Hawaii, Kauai is a popular hotspot for surfing, snorkeling and scuba diving. You could give a romantic twist to your visit with a boat ride into the sunset or a horseback riding stint. Get some action kayaking in the Wailua river jungle safari or sightseeing at the Waimea Canyon – the Grand Canyon of the Pacific.
Read more: Top things to do in Hawaii
5. Molokai
Known as the ‘friendly isle’, Molokai is the most indigenous island in Hawaii, with more than half the island inhabited by locals. A Molokai itinerary should include a mule ride down to the Kalaupapa Peninsula – a place which is home to the world’s largest sea cliffs, and a hike through Halawa valley – where you will come across well preserved ancient temples and tiny waterfalls.
Read more: 10 places made popular by American TV shows
Best time to visit Hawaii
The high season in Hawaii runs between December and April, while the low season – which is the rainy season – is the winter months from November to March. However, it drizzles every day in some part of the island or the other; regardless of the time of year. This is what gives the 50th state its lush topography.
The weather is great all year round. The best time to get off-season discounts is between mid-April and early November.
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