OAHU -
"The Gathering Place"
Oahu is the main island where Honolulu (the capital of
Hawaii) and Waikiki Beach are located. Most major airlines
fly into Honolulu International Airport (HNL). Rental cars
are a great way to get around the island although taxis
are available. Hotels are primarily located in world
famous Waikiki,
which is a bit touristy, but the center of activity for
the island. If you want to get away from the hustle and
bustle of Waikiki, there are some beautiful resorts
located in Kapolei
and Kahuku.
Main points of interest include Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay
(snorkling), Pearl Harbor, Kailua Beach (wind surfing) and
the North Shore (beaches and surfing).
KAUAI
- "The Garden Isle"
Kauai is very lush and green, and a great place to get
away from the crowds. The main airport is located in Lihue
(LIH). Renting a car is a must when visiting this island.
Most of the hotels are located in Poipu,
Kapaa
and Princeville.
The most famous sightseeing spot is Waimea Canyon, also
known as "The Grand Canyon of the Pacific". If
you have some time, go to the end of the road past
Princeville and Hanalei Bay. A hiking trail will take you
along breathtaking views of the Na Pali Coast.
MAUI -
"The Valley Isle"
Maui combines the beauty of nature and the convenience of
world-class resort resorts. Kahului Airport (OGG) is the
main arrival point for airlines. Two main parts of the
island contain the resort areas where most hotels are
located - the Southwest coast (Makena,
Wailea,
Kihei)
and the Northwest cost (Lahaina,
Kaanapali, Kapalua).
Iao Needle, located in Iao Valley near Wailuku, is
probably the best known landmark. Snorkling at Molokini
Island is one of the biggest selling tours for visitors to
Maui.
HAWAII - "The Big Island"
The Big Island has two very distinctive sides. The
western coast commonly known as the "Kona side" has a stark appearance with expanses of black
lava, and is home to mega resorts and world class golf courses. The eastern
coast commonly known as the "Hilo side" is lush, green with waterfalls and the Hawaii
Volcanoes National Park. You won't find any mega
resorts on the Hilo side, but you will get a glimpse of Hawaii's past and if
you look hard, you may even find some penny parking
meters. No matter which side you choose to stay on, a
drive around the island is a must. As you drive along the
northern part of the island, you'll see part of Parker
Ranch, one of the largest and oldest working cattle
ranches in the U.S. Take a jeep tour down into Waipio
Valley to see taro farms and a beach that will make you
think you're on a remote island in the South Pacific.
Akaka Falls, just north of Hilo, towers 442 feet and is
accessible by trail, which will remind you of a South
American rain forest. The southern tip of the island is
known as "South Point" and is the southern most
tip of the U.S. The Hawaii Volcanoes National
Park, the
home of an active volcano, is a photographer's dream.
Within the span of a few miles, you'll be able to
experience a lava desert, fern grotto and rain forest.
Accommodations are also available at the Volcano
Village.
MOLOKAI
- "The Friendly Isle"
Molokai is an island that many locals have never been
to. The island offers golf, remote beaches and a chance to
explore the island by jeep. Don't expect any traffic
lights though, as there aren't any. You can find places to
stay in Kaunakakai,
but the upscale resorts will be in Maunaloa.
LANAI -
"The Pineapple Isle"
Lanai is even less visited by locals. You'll need
a four wheel drive to explore some parts of the island,
but don't expect to rough it when it comes to
accommodations. The two properties are Four Seasons Resorts with world class amenities, dining and
golf.
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