Maui Beaches

• 42 miles of beaches, more than any other island
• Western Shore best for swimming, sunbathing, people watching
• Sands: White, golden, black, red sand on Hana Beach (remote)

Awalua Beach
- on Hwy 30, about 5 miles south of Lahaina
- name means “double channel”
- locals’ swimming favorite
- novice surfing

Baldwin Park
- on HIghway 36
- body surfing, long board surfing
- many recreational facilities

Fleming Beach Park
- On Hwy 30, past Kapalua resort
- good for families
- body surfing or boarding
- soft white sand

Hamoa Beach
- 2 miles north of Hana Town
- surfing popular, but some rip currents

Hana
- remote
- black sand and red sand — difficult hike to the red sand beach
- snorkeling good on calm days

Hanaka’o'o Beach Park
- 3 miles north of Lahaina
- used by local canoe clubs
- body boarding, surfing
- 1 mile of sand
- nickname: “Sand Box Beach”

Honokowai Beach Park
- on Honoapi’ilani Highway
- narrow sand strip descending to wide rock double-shelf
- shallow pool below shelves good for kids
- snorkeling good offshore

Ho’okipa Beach Park
- on Route 36, about 5 miles north of Kahului
- advanced surfing (popular)
- windsurfing, pole fishing
- restrooms

Ka’anapali Beach
- fronts the luxurious Ka’anapali Beach Resort
- nickname: “Dig Me Beach” — the place to be seen
- most water activities popular year-round

Kahana Beach
- access at south end of Pohaku Access Park
- shallow, protected by offshore reef
- somewhat isolated

Kahekili Beach Park
- access at north entrance to Ka’anapali Resort
- fine golden sand
- one of the safest swimming beaches
- snorkeling, diving

Kamaole Beach Park
- downtown Kihei
- three beaches in one park
- gentle surf
- white sand
- restrooms, showers
- body surfing, lazy body boarding
- picnicking, grilling, volleyball — playground for kids

Kanaha Beach Park
- next to Kahului airport
- white sand
- good swimming for kids
- windsurfing

Kapalua Beach
- access past Napili Kai Beach Club
- golden sand
- easy body surfing, snorkeling

Keawakapu Beach
- access at Kihei and Kilohana Roads in Kihei
- white sand
- snorkeling, body boarding

Koki Beach Park
- 1 mile North of Hana Town Center
- white sand — wider beach in summer
- body surfing, body boarding, some surfing
- camping allowed

Lahaina
- access on south side of the Hotel Lahaina Shores on Front Street
- snorkeling, shorediving and some surfing

Launiupoko State Park
- on Hwy 30 about 3 miles south of Lahaina
- surfing

Ma’alaea Beach Park
- on Hwy 31 N of Kihei, near Wailea
- nickname: Hay Craft Beach
- winter whale watching
- stretches for miles, good for strolling or jogging
- body boarding, surfing, windsurfing
- next to Kealia Pond bird sanctuary

Mai Poina ‘Oe la’u Beach Park
- on North Kihei Road
- humpback whale watching in winter

Makena Landing Beach Park
- off Old Makena Rd.
- small sandy areas and pebble beach
- good swimming for kids

Maluaka Beach Park
- access via right turn past the Maui Prince Hotel
- pearl white sand

Mokapu Beach
- access south of Stouffer Wailea
- white sand, short & wide beach
- snorkeling, some body boarding and surfing

Napili Bay
- white sand
- advanced swimmers – high surf & rip currents common in winter

Oneloa Beach (“Big Beach”)
- in Makena, north entrance to Kapalua
- white sand
- good view of Molokai
- one of most popular on Maui, local favorite
- diving, snorkeling
- nearby is Little Beach: clothing optional

Oneuli Beach
- dark sand
- exposed reef

Papalaua State Park
- on Hwy 30, about 10 miles south of Lahaina
- long, narrow roadside beach
- nickname: “Thousand Peaks”
- surfing, body boarding, snorkeling

Polo Beach
- access south of Kea Lani Resort
- white sand
- snorkeling, offshore bodysurfing
- some heavy surf and erosion as a result

Po’olenalena Beach Park
- off Old Makena Rd.
- golden sand
- three rocky points along long beach

Puamana Beach Park
- at the south end of Front Street in Lahaina
- nickname: “Hot Sands”
- picnic facilities

Ukumehame Beach Park
- on Hwy 30 about 9 miles south of Lahaina
- yellow sand
- long, narrow roadside beach
- fishing, easy surfing, kayaking
- picnic & grill facilities, restrooms

Ulua Beach
- access south of Stouffer Wailea
- long, wide white sand beach
- snorkeling, body boarding

Wahikuli State Park
- 2 miles north of Lahaina
- picnicking/barbecueing
- snorkeling

Waiehu Beach Park
- heavy surf along offshore reef
- ocean debris — popular for beachcombing and Limu gathering
- rocky sea bottom – not good for swimming
- fishing

Waihe’e Beach Park
- access via Halewaiu Road to Municipal Golf Course parking lot, turn toward ocean on park access road
- rocky bottom, not good for swimming
- shore diving, snorkeling, shoreline fishing
- beachcombing and Limu gathering

Wailea Beach
- access south of Four Seasons
- highly developed area
- long, wide white sand beach
- snorkeling, bodysurfing

Wainapanapa Park
- near the end of the Road to Hana
- black sand
- snorkeling, volcano rock caves, camping
- restrooms, showers

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions
# Is there a bad time to visit Hawai‘i?

Not really. July and August are very humid. To many from colder climes, winter is most desirable, making airfare and hotel rates more expensive during that time of year. For great travel deals year-round, explore our Travel guide.

# What time zone is Hawai‘i in?

Hawai‘i Standard Time. We do not observe daylight savings time. For the current time in Hawai‘i, click here.

# What type of clothes should I bring to Hawai‘i?

Bring swimsuits, shorts, short-sleeve/sleeveless shirts, good walking shoes and a couple of nice outfits for fine dining. Lose the sports coat, tie and pantyhose. Most importantly, remember to bring SUNSCREEN! Hawai‘i is only 19 degrees north of the equator. The sun is very intense.

# What are lei made of? Can I bring them home with me? How can I get one sent to me after I get home?

Most lei are made out of fresh flowers. You can take home lei that are made and inspected by a florist. When you get home, you can order fresh tropical flowers and lei from Hawaii.com’s Marketplace.

# Do they still greet you with leis at the airport?

Only if you have paid for a greeter to do this. Good friends will do this for free.

# Are grass skirts made of real grass?

Grass skirts are actually made out of ti leaves.

# Where is the best surfing?

Depends on the time of year. O‘ahu has some of the best-known breaks in the world, including ‘Ehukai (Banzai Pipeline) and Waimea Bay. For a guide on where to find surf in Hawaii, click here.

# Can I bring my own surfboard/boogie board/scuba gear/snorkel gear?

You bet! Large items like a surfboard or boogie board would have to be checked in as luggage; check with the airline on requirements. You can also rent any of that equipment on any of the islands.

# Can I take Hawaiian food home with me, such as pineapples, coconuts, etc.?

Certain fruits, vegtables and flowers are allowed for export, but it must be the kind that is agriculturally approved. You can find boxed pineapple in tourist shops throughout Hawai’i. Always check with the clerk to make sure it is okay for mailing. You cannot pick fruit from the trees in Hawai‘i and take it home; same goes for flowers.

# Are there nude beaches or clothing-optional beaches?

Sorry, there are no legal clothing-optional beaches in Hawai’i.

# Can I visit the site of the Pearl Harbor bombing?

Yes. The USS Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor is a popular visitor attraction. See our Attractions section for information about visiting this historical site.

# Where is Pearl Harbor?

It is on the island of O‘ahu, west of Honolulu International Airport.

# Can I bring pets to Hawai‘i?

Yes. However, Hawai‘i is rabies-free and requires that all cats, dogs and other carnivores entering the state be quarantined for 30 to 120 days to screen for rabies. A new law exempts service dogs for the disabled. For information about animal quarantine, click here.

# Where are the black sand beaches?

Most of the black sand beaches are on Hawai‘i, the Big Island. The main black sand beach in east Hawai’i was covered by a lava flow a number of years ago. Check out Beaches.

# Can I see lava flowing from a volcano?

Maybe. Kilauea caldera on the Big Island of Hawai‘i is one of the most active volcanoes on earth, producing mostly underground lava flows. Officials at Volcanoes National Park restrict access to Kilauea’s flow, but if conditions allow, you can take a trail close to the point where lava enters the ocean. Helicopter companies also offer aerial tours. For information about Kilauea, see Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park in our Attractions section.

# What is poi?

Poi — a staple of the traditional Hawaiian diet — is mashed taro root mixed with water. Most authentic lu’au menus include poi.

# How long does it take to cook a pig in a pit?

Depends on the size of the pig. For details on cooking a pig in an imu oven, see our lu’au section.

# Does Hawai‘i get tidal waves?

Yes. The islands are subject to tidal waves generated by land and underwater earthquakes in the Pacific basin. They are called tsunamis. In the event of a tidal wave, civil defense calls for an evacuation, which is carried out by local law enforcement.

# Can I take a commercial boat or ship between the Islands?

No. The only ship is a week-long cruise ship, which stops on the major Islands. For more on water, air and land transportation, see our Transportation guide.

Hawaiian Luau’s

The Finest Hawaiian Luaus

         One’s visiting to Hawaii could never be complete if the traveler has not experienced an authentic luau. Some luaus might seem like commercial and cheesy affairs, but there are still those that let guests experience a traditional and sincere Hawaiian extravaganza. Tourists would not be able to take their eyes off the kalua pigs that are dug out of the underground oven (imu) or the amazing fire knife dancers. Tourists who are planning to bring their kids along need not worry because most of Hawaiian luaus are appropriate for little children as well. Listed here are some of the state’s most popular luaus:

 

The Alii Luau based in Oahu’s Polynesian Cultural Center is considered as the island’s finest and the most authentic luau. This luau promptly begins at 5:30 in the afternoon with a ceremonial shell lei greeting while guests enter the charming secluded area that is topped off with 15 feet high waterfall plus a tropical lagoon. After the traditional lifting of the pig, the conch shell would blow to herald the coming of the Alii Court or the Hawaiian royalty. Guests would thoroughly enjoy this Hawaiian feast complete with ancient dances or hula kahiko. The audience is also requested to join in the performers’ singing and dancing, which makes the experience truly memorable.

 

The Island Breeze Luau is another tourist favorite. Before partaking in the feast, the travelers would get to enjoy the demonstrations of Hawaii’s native arts and crafts. They would learn how to weave some coconut fronds, open a coconut on their own, or even have a local artist draw a temporary Polynesian tattoo on their arms. After that, guests would gather to feast on a delectable 22-dish buffet that highlights Hawaiian as well as American cuisines. The evening’s main draw is the awe-inspiring Island Breeze Polynesian Revue. The Maori and Fijian war dances, Hawaiian Hula and the famous fire knife dances all abound on this night of celebration.

 

The Royal Lahaina Luau is one unforgettable cultural festivity. With the glittering Pacific Ocean as well as the other islands serving as backdrops, tourists would absolutely want to join in the fun and scenic celebration in the Royal Lahaina Resort. There are also demonstrations of arts and crafts here plus the traditional Imu and Mai Tai ceremony before guests actually head towards the eat all you can dinner buffet. Travelers would find that there is a wide selection of scrumptious Hawaiian dishes to sample. Some of these mouthwatering delights are the Kalua pork, lomi lomi salmon, poi, some fresh fish, assorted salads, the Island chicken, and plenty of side dishes as well as desserts. There is also an open bar that offers standard cocktails, wine, beer, and for those who do not drink alcohol, soft drinks and fruit punches are also available. For the kids, they also have a special kids’ dinner buffet. But aside from the food, the real fun of this luau is watching the artists take center stage for one lively Polynesian Revue. Guests would be spellbound by the dancers and singers who would weave the legends of Samoa, Tahiti, Maui and Hawaii into lovely hulas and other vibrant performances.

 

These luaus are just some of the most authentic ones that travelers would surely take pleasure in. Aside from enjoying the luau, tourists would also get to learn more about the culture and traditions of Hawaii. Instead of going to an ordinary museum to discover Hawaii’s way of life, it is best for travelers to fun in the process by participating in a traditional and dynamic luau.

Scuba

Hawaii’s Best Scuba Diving and Snorkeling Sites

 

 

All the islands of Hawaii have pretty good scuba diving and snorkeling locations. There is no Hawaiian tropical vacation that is fulfilled without the tourists having to embark on a snorkel or scuba diving adventure. Travelers that are into various ocean activities would be pleased to find out that each of the islands in this state has its own fine coral reefs and mystifying shipwrecks. Here are some of Hawaii’s excellent scuba diving and snorkeling spots:

 

A lot of experienced scuba divers and snorkelers agree that the island of Maui is home to the first-rate underwater opportunities among all the Hawaiian Islands. First on the list is the Wailea luxury resort site. It has an easily accessible shoreline that offers the greatest off-the-beach snorkeling experience. Its waters are so calm that plenty of young children get to experience their first snorkeling escapade in Wailea. The best place in the whole of Maui, though, is the extinct Molokini Crater. Tourists would need to get on a short boat ride to get to this volcanic crater, which is acknowledged as among the top scuba diving areas worldwide.

 

In the Big Island, tourists would be able to delight in the Kohala Coast. It is very beautiful and is considered as the best that this island could offer to those who are seeking some scuba diving or snorkeling escapade. The Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area, a renowned destination for several ocean activities, is also encompassed by the Kohala Coast. The Sea Caves, which is just off Honaunau and close to the Kona Coast, boast of serene waters that are also ideal for snorkeling. The Big Island’s western shore houses the Kailua-Kona Town. One would be able to find here an extraordinary array of fish and for those lucky enough to visit beginning November to May, they would be able to see some humpback whales settle in the area.

 

Lanai might be the smallest of the state’s main islands, only having one town. However, it still boasts of great under the sea explorations. There are two renowned scuba destinations found in Lanai, which are The First and Second Cathedrals, as well as Fish Rock. The finest scuba diving and snorkeling place in this island is Fish Rock. It is a volcanic cone that has a depth of roughly 75 feet, and it is fantastic to explore the things around this underwater rock. The First Cathedral and Second Cathedrals are undeniably astounding. These are actually ancient lava tubes that hollowed out into a 65-foot depth, with bright lights shining inside from above. It has numerous smaller fish species that seek sanctuary in them plus the wall crevices became the home of varied kinds of crustaceans. The Second Cathedral is the bigger between the two, but either one would be able to offer an unsurpassed scuba diving experience.

 

All of the finest scuba diving and snorkeling places mentioned are definitely beautiful and out of the ordinary. But tourists should also do well to remember that the coral reefs found in these sites are living animals and therefore, should not be removed. It is better to take home another souvenir because it is considered illegal not to mention unethical, to cut off a piece of the corals to take home. All of these spots are among the best scuba diving and snorkeling areas in the whole state, and travelers should cap off a perfect tropical vacation by taking time out to have a scuba diving or snorkeling trip in exotic Hawaii.

Fishing

Sport Fishing the Hawaiian Way

 When Hawaii comes to mind, people’s thoughts immediately drift towards sparkling beaches, smooth tans, and awesome surfs. But it is also common knowledge that these islands also offer another wonderful activity, which is sport fishing. In fact, Kona is widely regarded as the Blue Marlin capital in the whole world. Aside from the great catches that tourists could make here, the advantage of Hawaii fishing is it also provides some of the most striking sceneries that one could not find anywhere else in the world.

 

Tourists would enjoy fishing in Hawaii because there are plenty of spots to choose from. Of course, Hawaii fishing is mainly consisted of saltwater fishing, but freshwater fishing is also available in the islands.

 

If travelers would love to hunt for a Blue Marlin, the ideal month to visit Hawaii is during July. On the other hand, the best time to fish for either a Yellow Fin Tuna or a Black Marlin is the month of May. For tourists who are dying to fish for a Grouper, Mahi-Mahi, or even a Big Eye Tuna, November is the perfect month to go to Hawaii. Those are after a Wahoo, August is the most excellent time in order to catch them. Actually, whatever kind of saltwater fish that a tourist might be interested in capturing and whatever month of the year it may be, Hawaii would be glad to assist guests in their pursuits.

 

For those travelers who are planning on going to Hawaii in order to experience sport fishing, they have a wonderful adventure waiting for them. Avid fans of sport fishing from around the globe fly to Hawaii to have a look at the dazzling turquoise waters that are teeming with numerous trophy fish. This is the place where a person would be able to catch the big ones. As a matter of fact, the largest fish that was ever caught by simply using a rod and reel was a heavy 1,805-lb. Blue Marlin that was captured just off the island of Oahu. Hawaii is such a legend among all the sport fishing buffs that numerous tournaments are being hosted by the state annually, including the Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament, which draws plenty of fishermen all over the world.

 

Hawaii sport fishing actually houses a lot of big-game fish. Some of the fish species that one could come across here is the three kinds of marlin, namely the black, blue as well as the striped one. It is even possible that a traveler would be able to catch a monster fish that could weigh something like 1,000 lbs. The other best game fish found here include the Ono or Wahoo, Mahi-Mahi or dolphin fish, Ahi or Yellow Fin Tuna, as well as Skipjack Tuna. It is only the Striped Marlin that is a bit hard to find, since it normally shows up only during the winter season. All the other species could be found all year long. The best fishing areas recommended for tourists are those in Kona, which has long been recognized as the greatest big-game fishing site worldwide. The North Shore of Oahu is pretty famous for surfing activities, but it is also a prime fishing spot.

 

To book a Hawaiian sport fishing escapade is easy. There are chartered fishing boats available in the islands. There are those that offer either a half-day or full-day trip, depending on what a person prefers. Whether a tourist is searching for that a huge trophy catch or just some delectable fish to partake of, lively Hawaii is the ideal place for anyone.

 

 

 

Hawaii’s Most Visited Attractions

Whichever way you look at it, Hawaii would always remain as a paradise for travelers. With its unique warmth and culture, guests would quickly feel right at home in these islands. Offering a wide variety of events and activities, the beautiful Hawaii is home to some of the most wonderful attractions that make people visit them over and over again. Included in this list are some of the islands’ most visited sites:

 Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

       This majestic place found in the Big Island is undoubtedly the most visited attraction in the whole State of Hawaii. This delightful park contains the peak of the most active volcano in the world, which is Kilauea, as well as the planet’s hugest volcano, Mauna Loa. The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park presents distinctive hiking and camping opportunities for all tourists. Guests should also explore the picturesque spots on Crater Rim Drive, the informative Kilauea Visitor Center, and one should not forget to grab a bite at the Volcano House.

 

USS Arizona Memorial

 

The USS Arizona Memorial is situated in scenic Oahu. When travelers visit the remains of the USS Arizona, it will encourage them to reflect on the sacrifice made by the countless military men during the attack on Pearl Harbor. This memorial is the mid-section of the nation’s sunken battleship and the guided tour includes a short boat trip, a documentary film, and an exploration of the Memorial.

      Haleakala National Park

 This park preserves the volcanic region of Haleakala on Maui. Guests should explore the summit district and the Kipahulu Valley down the coast, but it is important to note that these 2 park sections are actually not linked by road. The summit area presents panoramic sights and landscapes, while the Kipahulu Valley is flourishing and is also dotted with striking freshwater pools as well as waterfalls. Travelers could hike the trail that is two miles long, which would lead them through the Oheo Gulch. They could also take a dip in the pools and drop by its visitor center.

 

Kilauea National Wildlife Refuge

     Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge is situated on the north shore of Kauai and it encompasses roughly 203 acres of sheltered land. Tourists visit this amazing place to discover the diverse wildlife of Hawaii. This refuge houses exotic animals such as the Laysan albatross, the Pacific golden plover, as well as the Nene, which is the state bird of Hawaii. Across the shore, one could catch a glimpse of Hawaiian monk seals, some humpback whales, and even spinner dolphins.

   Polynesian Cultural Center

     This center in Oahu is one of the island’s treasures. Travelers would be able to learn about the Hawaiian culture by seeing the 7 recreated traditional villages that are filled with activities. Oahu’s Polynesian Cultural Center houses an authentic luau and the largest night show worldwide. Guests would be warmly greeted with the customary lei and they would indulge on native food while delightfully watching a lively hula show.

 These are just some of the most visited attractions in the whole state of Hawaii. There are still a lot more places to discover when people travel here. Hawaii is no doubt a tropical haven and people also consider this as a slice of heaven found on earth.

activities to do

Tourists visiting Hawaii may find that there are lots of places to visit and activities to do. If you only have a short time for your vacation then you may become overwhelmed by the many places to choose from. This list I have prepared is the top five best places and activities that are a must for the tourist to experience in their travel to Hawaii.

The Hanauma bay nature preserve in Oahu Island is one of Hawaii’s best places to view its sea based natural resources. In here is located one of the world’s best coral reefs. People who love to snorkel and enjoy the underwater scenery should definitely visit this place. Be warned though that you should visit the place early in the morning or during off peak days since this place really draws in lots of crowds.

Located in the main island of Hawaii is the Volcanoes National Park. In here is located two active volcanoes namely Mauna Loa, which is the worlds tallest mountain on earth and Kilauea. Here you could hike around the place and experience first hand seeing the magma flowing from the volcanoes. This area is also home to many Hawaiian birds and other wildlife.

Planning to go to the beach in Hawaii? Head out to Waikiki beach. This beach, which stretches out, to two miles is full of luxurious resorts. Hawaiian royalty often visited this beautiful beach during the 18th century. Today you don’t have to be royalty to enjoy this beach; there are a lot of tourist facilities in this area to accommodate your needs. Although the prices here are a bit expensive, it definitely is worth it.

Whale watching tours are very popular in Hawaii. Watching these sea mammals from their natural environment is a very thrilling experience. Booking a whale watching tour could be done on many of Hawaii’s major islands like Kauai, Maui or Oahu.

Don’t leave Hawaii without attending a luau. A luau is a Hawaiian feast wherein there are a lot of food and dancing, these spells out fun and entertainment. Many tourists who have visited Hawaii always remember and enjoy the Luau festivals that they have attended so better not miss out on one while you are in Hawaii.

Parks

The Most Fascinating Parks Found in Hawaii

Aside from fantastic beaches, Hawaii also offers tourists some fabulous state parks. Guests of the islands should not spend all their days sitting idly on the beach and instead, it would be better if they would also set aside some time to visit these parks. Listed here are several Hawaiian state parks that any tourist would take pleasure in:

 

Nuuanu Pali State Wayside Park and Overlook

 

The Nuuanu Pali State Wayside Park is situated in Oahu. It played host to more than 900,000 guests back in 2007. When tourists are on the lookout, they would be able to catch sight of several magnificent views such as those of Kailua, the Koolau Mountains, Kaneohe Bay, plus the Mokapu Peninsula, which currently houses the base of the Kaneohe Marine Corps.

 

Wailua River State Park

 

This place is considered as the number one state park in Kauai with more than 850,000 sightseers in 2007. The area in the park where one could have a clear view of the sparkling Wailua Falls is extremely popular with tourists. This is because Wailua Falls is a majestic double waterfall that cascades 80 feet down into a huge round pool. Another picturesque lookout point in this park is located on Kuamoo Road. This presents some superb views of the Ōpaekaa Falls and the Wailua River Valley. There are also several places of worship or heiau and places of refuge or puuhonua that are situated within the state park.

 

Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area

 

This area is located at the Kohala Coast of Hawaii’s Big Island. This is a 61-acre property that welcomed around 500,000 tourists in 2007. Some activities that one could enjoy here are swimming and bodysurfing in serene waters, as well as hiking in the Ala Kahakai Coastal Trail. Big families could even eat out in the park’s picnic areas. Other facilities available are shower rooms, restrooms and a snack bar.

 

Mākena State Park

 

This state park is beautifully situated in the island of Maui. The Mākena State Park opened its doors to more than 500,000 visitors back in 2007. The park is really wide, occupying around 164 acres that includes three distinct beaches plus several picnic sites. The park also boasts of one of the biggest parking lots that can be found in any beach in Maui. The Mākena State Park’s three beaches are the Little Beach, the Big Beach and lastly, the Black Sand Beach. The Little Beach is a popular place in Maui, famous for being a nudist beach because clothes are really optional here. The Big Beach lives up to its name. This is a long and vast beach ideal for swimming, shore fishing, board surfing, bodysurfing, and some other water-related leisure activities. The Black Sand Beach of Makena State Park is actually undeveloped and one would be able to see some corals and lava rocks directly offshore. The Black Sand Beach is also hardly ever visited by anyone.

 

When in Hawaii, do not forget to drop by their beautiful parks. These are perfect for active people that enjoy the sight of nature and these parks are kid-friendly as well. Come to Hawaii and experience for yourself the wonderful activities that are offered in their treasured parks.

Lanai

Take a Break on the Charming Island of Lanai

 

 

Lanai used to be Hawaii’s center of pineapple production but is now fast developing into a tropical vacation destination. This tiny island is also dubbed as “The Most Secluded Isle” in the state. Since this is relatively small compared to the other main islands of Hawaii, tourists would find that they could enjoy both privacy and adventure in this sizzling paradise.

 

One attraction that visitors would enjoy is the Garden of the Gods or Keahikawelo in Hawaiian. This is among the island’s many mesmerizing natural wonders and is one place that is guests would never tire of visiting. Continuous erosions have actually shaped these huge sprinkled rock formations for more than thousands of years. The erosions have created countless buttes as well as apexes of different color shades. The Garden of the Gods is not just for those interested in geology. A tourist would catch sight of a stunning spectacle if they would behold these formations during early morning or even in the late evening. The rays of the sun would hit the minerals enclosed within these rocks that would produce a variety of color changes. The unrestricted vision of the Pacific Ocean and the Oahu and Molokai Islands simply enhance the beauty of this exceptional place.

 

The Hulopoe Beach Park is another pride of Lanai. It has a fairly steep shoreline that makes it perfect for swimming and tourists would also marvel at its luxurious golden sand. Some favorite activities in this area are surfing, body boarding and snorkeling. The latter is chiefly popular because of the extraordinary number and diversity of the tropical fish that reside in these coral-filled seas. There are also offshore diving tours for those daring guests. The sparkling waters that surround this park actually house a marine reserve. Because of this, the waters that surround the park are also called home by some jellyfish and stingrays.

 

Lanai’s Kanepuu Preserve would be thoroughly enjoyed by nature lovers. This plateau could be really arid and dry but is boasted of the largest dry land forest in all of Hawaii. The Kanepuu Preserve extends more than roughly 590 acres in its entirety and it houses an array of several plant species. Some of this plant species are truly rare, which includes the Hawaii gardenia and sandalwood.

 

Visitors of the island should also drop by the Shipwreck Beach. This is among the numerous interesting hikes on the Lanai Islands. The Shipwreck Beach is actually made up of sand, lava rock and scattered rock formations that are usual in the Hawaiian Islands. This place is a fantastic spot for beachcombing.

 

Another famous Lanai attraction is the spectacular Munro Trail. This trail is 7-mile long and has a single lane road that presents wide vistas among the grand Cook pine trees. The Munro trail provides impressive views and further down the way, one would find the striking vision of the Maunalei gorge and the island of Maui. This trail would also take the visitors to the peak of Mount Lanaihale, which is the highest summit in Lanai at 3,368 feet.

 

The small island of Lanai gives guests a chance to privately enjoy their holiday in Hawaii. It is rich both in cultural heritage as well as natural attractions. Warm, friendly locals that are typical in Hawaii would greet visitors of this isle. Guests looking for a little solitude would truly take pleasure in visiting this unspoiled oasis called Lanai. 

Surf

Make Your Way to the Best Surfing Spots in Hawaii

 

 

One of the many factors why tourists visit the islands of Hawaii is surfing. Known for its stunning beaches and world-class waves, thousands of surfers, whether professional, amateur or beginner crowd the best surfing spots in Hawaii all year long.

 

Tourists who would try surfing for the first time are advised to learn the sport in beaches that offer calmer and smaller waves perfect for beginners. Waikiki beach in Oahu is one place that first-timers could go to. Surfing instructors here have been teaching students for quite a long time. Visitors would learn the basics of paddling, standing up on the surfboard and most importantly, water safety procedures. This is a great start for travelers who would really love to learn the sport.

 

Beginners could also take some surfing lessons in any of the surf schools in Lahaina. These schools would also teach them how to steer away from the coral reefs to prevent causing an accident. Launiupoko State Park and the beaches of Kihei, both found in the island of Maui, are ideal locations for those who are new to this sport. They feature small and easy waves during calm conditions, which are just right for the first rides of the travelers.

 

Once tourists get a grip of the proper way to surf, they would be up to the challenge of bigger and even more dangerous waves. Summer in the North Shore of Oahu is the ideal time for these amateur surfers. The waves are big enough in the Ehukai Beach Park for surfers who have intermediate skills. In Laniakea, also located in the North Shore, the waves are deep but very consistent.

 

However, the site of the most consistent waves and also considered as among the best windsurfing places in the world is Hookipa. It is situated between Haiku and Paia in Maui. The winds here, on the other hand, are quite strong. It is recommended that visitors get up early in the morning or wait until late in the afternoon so as not to surf against the waves and the winds at the same time.

 

For expert surfers, they would definitely be thrilled to ride the very fast waves of the beaches in the North Shore of Oahu. Among these resorts are Sunset, Backyards, and Velzyland. Hazardous occurrences, however, are very common in these beaches. Visitors could encounter sharp and shallow reefs, which could cause cuts and bruises. These advanced surfers need to have a lot of strength for paddling to be able to go through the high waves.

 

During the winter season, waves in the North Shore are extremely high and dangerous. Only professional surfers would be able to withstand these enormous waves. Tourists who could not do the sport due to the condition of the waves, could still have the opportunity to witness these professional athletes participate in the surfing competitions. These contests are practically held in any North Shore beaches in the island. Thousands of spectators gather every year along the shore to watch this exciting event.

Almost all of the islands’ beaches are graced with amazing waves perfect for everyone. Being able to surf well could be achieved through proper learning, constant practice, and most importantly, by having the courage to ride through the challenging waves of scenic Hawaii.

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