Explore the Mystic Caves of Hawaii

For many tourists, a vacation in Hawaii would mean endless days lounging in its numerous beaches. But then, one should know that there are still other adventures waiting for guests of this tropical state. One exciting activity that visitors could do in the Hawaiian Islands is to do some cave explorations. Most of the caves located in Hawaii are underground lava tubes. Some of these caves could be explored even if guests do not have a guide with them. But of course, for safety purposes, it would be best if tourists would join a cave exploration tour or at least go with someone who knows their way around.

The Big Island is home to some wonderful underground caves such as the Kaumana Cave. This cave is a lava tube that measures around 25 miles and it is located close to both Rainbow Falls as well as to the district of Hilo on the eastern section of the island. The Kaumana Cave is filled with lush flora, but its entrance is well-marked and one would also find a flight of stairs leading into the cave. Visitors would be happy to know that there is no entrance fee here.

The Kazumura Cave is another lava tube situated in the Big Island, particularly in the Puna area. This cave was discovered during the middle of the year 1990 and it is among the world’s longest and deepest lava tubes, measuring over 60 kilometers in length. Travelers would be able to take part in a Kazamura Cave tour but they should arrange it no less than 24 hours beforehand, or if they want the 6 hour tour for advanced climbers, they have to book it at least a week ahead. The available tours in this cave consist of a tour that would take two hours covering a half mile, a tour that lasts for four hours covering two miles, plus the tour lasting 6 hours that is only open for skilled climbers.

The Kula Kai Caverns is also located in the Big Island. One would be able to find this lava tube on Mauna Loa’s lower slants. The tours available here consist of a half hour simple walking tour and another tour that lasts for two hours. There is also a challenging three hour tour that contains a brief drive to the other section of the caverns called the Maelstrom Cave. Only a small part of the main cavern is lighted, and that is why the tour providers give out lights and helmets to guests.

Thurston Lava Tube is another long underground lava tube that measures 400 feet in length with a ceiling that reaches up to 12 feet. This cave is to be found within the Big Island’s Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The Thurston Lava Tube is well-lit and its ground is smooth, however, it could also be a little slippery.

On Maui, it boasts of the Ka’eleku Caverns, which is the lone public cave expedition in the whole island. This underground lava tube is the 18^th biggest cavern system on earth and it is situated on the eastern coast of the island. The tours available in these caverns consist of a self-guided exploration, a walking tour for an hour, in addition to an adventure tour that lasts for two hours, exclusively available 15 years old and up. There are no lights in this cave but the tour operators provide both helmets and lights.

Hawaii’s caves are enchantingly beautiful and it presents an alternative to beach escapades. There is no need to bring anything if one is joining a tour group since they would provide the gear and all that they want is for their guests to have fun exploring the exquisite caves of Hawaii.

Spot the Exotic Birds of Hawaii

Nature lovers would simply be smitten by the Hawaiian Islands. Since the Aloha State is home to around 15 bird species and plays host to a huge number of migratory birds, it is a fantastic place to witness some of this graceful winged creatures. Because plenty of the species are gone, there is now a fervent preservation effort by the government to limit the access to a few birding zones.

There are over 2 million agile birds that have made Hawaii their residence. Bird enthusiasts should come to the islands for this is where one could see some striking species that could not be found any place else. Tourists would also be able to witness here how the state’s avian forms such as the nene and apapane are being sheltered and protected.

 

Bird watching in the Hawaiian Islands is easily manageable due to the fact that there are countless tours run by experienced guides. The Big Island is considered as one of the best birding sites. Avian lovers from all over the world visit this island to see 3 unique Hawaiian birds such as the akiapolaau, which looks like a woodpecker; nukupuu, a tiny yellow bird; and alala, which is an endangered being.

Among the leading birding spots is the Midway Atoll National Wildlife Refuge. Some examples of the lovely avian creatures that reside here are the terns, albatross, as well as the Petrels frigate birds. Mynahs, canaries, and egrets have also been found in the area. There are a lot of migrants that make use of the place as their shelter, particularly during their nesting period.

Because Kauai has several bodies of water, the island is therefore filled with local water birds like ducks, stilts, moor hens, and coots. This island is also a preferred dwelling of migratory birds. Another bird watching area that tourists could visit on the island is the Kilauea National Wildlife Refuge.

Oahu’s northern and eastern sections should also be explored by bird lovers. One such place that they could check out is the Kaena Park for it is ideal for bird watching pursuits. The island of Oahu also gives shelter to some terns and gulls that could not be seen anywhere else in the state.

Even if bird observers would be able to see several stilts in the plains of Maui, it is the island’s mountainous area that offers a rare and delightful treat for bird watchers. However, access here is strictly limited. The island of Molokai’s Kakahaia National Wildlife Refuge is also the dwelling of rare avian forms, but it could be challenging for bird watchers to secure access since the bird numbers are quite low at present. The Hakalau National Wildlife Refuge is the foremost national wildlife refuge founded exclusively for the management of forest birds. If one is able to drop by the area, it promises to be a first-rate birding experience.

For travelers who want to spot some rare and hauntingly beautiful birds, they should definitely come to Hawaii. It is truly one exceptional opportunity to be able to observe the Aloha State’s avian treasures. Hawaii beach weddings

Discover the World of Whales in Hawaii

Hawaii, being famous for its beaches, is also a seasonal home for whales. In fact, whale watching is a favorite activity of tourists and locals alike once the winter season rolls by in the state. There exist roughly 10,000 up to 15,000 humpback whales throughout the world and more than a thousand of these adorable animals stay at the warm waters of the Hawaiian Islands each year, during the latter part of November. The whales remain in the state until April and there are even some who are spotted until May before making their way back to their other home, which is Alaska.  Hawaii photographers

Tourists would be able to see whales in the tropical waters of each of the Hawaiian Islands. There are plenty of tour providers that arrange either day or sunset whale watching cruises on both small and huge boats. Majority of these tours assure guests of some whale sightings, and if some visitors were not able to view any whales, they would be given a complimentary whale watching tour. Normally, the charge for the tour also incorporates a snack, a drink, some comprehensive narration, and there are also those who offer hydrophones on board the ship. These hydrophones would allow the passengers to listen to the sounds that whales make to communicate with each other.

Immersing one’s self into the world of whales with the help of a submarine is a fascinating way to observe and discover more facts about the humpback whales. In the Aloha State, Atlantis Submarines is the only submarine provider throughout Hawaii and it operates on Maui, Oahu, as well as the Big Island. Not only would the guests be able to see the whales in their natural environment, but since humpback whales are naturally curious about their surroundings, there are some of them who would even approach the water vessel.

Even if whale watching in the state could be done in any Hawaiian Island, the protected Auau Channel as well as the shallow tropical waters farther down Maui’s west coast are among the greatest places to observe whales. There are also boat tours available here from November until April and it departs from the Lahaina Harbor plenty of times each day during the season for watching whales. On the island of Kauai and on the Big Island, there are also abundant whale-watching opportunities and the boat tours are offered by experienced and expert guides.

If one is not comfortable on board a boat, humpback whales could also be seen from dry land. On Kauai, some great sites to start looking for whales are the Kealia Lookout, the Kilauea Lighthouse, and other elevated points of land, particularly in the coastal regions.

In the state of Hawaii, watching whales is a preferred pursuit, and similar with other outdoor activities, there are also rules in whale watching. Observers of these animals should not approach them either by swimming or via a boat within a hundred yards of a whale. But then, since whales are innately inquisitive, they could approach people and there is no law against that. Come to Hawaii to listen to the sounds of the whales as they “sing” and have an amazing experience like no other.  Hawaii beach weddings

Check Out the Charming Museums of Hawaii

When travelers visit Hawaii, they consider seeing the state’s world-renowned sandy beaches as absolutely crucial for them to believe that they have had a perfect Hawaiian vacation. But then, more and more guests of these beautiful Hawaiian Islands are also spending some time exploring the profound history as well as the rich culture of Hawaii.

Hawaii is home to a vast selection of interesting museums that would complete any travelers’ itinerary. Visiting a museum would enrich one’s knowledge and understanding of the Hawaiian culture. From early Island artifacts to plantation period items as well as American military exhibits, there is definitely no lack of some fascinating historical displays that can be found in Hawaii.

For instance, on the island of Oahu, Honolulu’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum plays host to a massive amount of historical finds that were gathered both from the Islands and the Pacific area. Close to the Aloha Tower in the busy district of Honolulu, one would be able to see the Hawaii Maritime Museum. This museum features the maritime history of the state beginning from the early Polynesian explorers to the celebrated luxury liners back in the ‘20s and the ‘30s. At the famous Pearl Harbor, one would be able to find the Battleship Missouri Memorial as well as the USS Arizona Memorial Museum, both of which pay tribute to the numerous heroes of the war. In Waipahu, the Plantation Village of Hawaii gives tourists a chance to see the colorful plantation days of the state, showcasing the cultures and traditions of 8 various ethnic groups that worked on Hawaii’s several sugar plantations.

On the island of Maui, tourists would be able to visit the Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum. This particular museum is home to an array of intriguing artifacts and ancient photographs. In Lahaina, visitors could also check out the Whalers Village Museum. This enthralling museum focuses on the history of the region’s rich whaling era, which is around 1825 up until the 1860s. The displays here consist of logbooks, harpoons, an extensive assortment of scrimshaw in the 19^th century as well as a replica of a whaling ship that measures 6 feet.

The Big Island also boasts of magnificent museums. One of the most suggested historical stops for tourists here is the Hulihee Palace. This is a lovely Victorian edifice based in Kailua-Kona that previously functioned as a vacation hideaway for the state’s ali‘i royalty. Another favorite museum in this island is the Lyman House Memorial Museum found in Hilo. This structure highlights the Hawaiian Island’s cultural and natural histories, which is a must-see for Big Island guests.

When one is in Kauai, Lihue’s Kauai Museum is a great place to learn more about Hawaii. One would be able to view a little bit of everything in this place such as antique artifacts and wistful treasures that describe the plantation era in this island. Travelers would also be able to see the ancient way of life of the people of Kauai in this museum. This is truly a fantastic way to deepen a person’s understanding of the island’s history.

These are simply some of the Aloha State’s beguiling museums. As travelers explore the Hawaiian Islands, they would still be able to uncover more museums and they would be able to discover the true essence of this captivating state in the process.

Fix Your Eyes on Molokini’s Wonders

Molokini is a semicircular lunar-shaped isle situated not more than 3 miles outside the southern coast of Maui. According to myths, Molokini used to be a lovely woman. As the story goes, both Molokini and Pele, who was the fire goddess, fell madly in love with just one man. The resentful Pele then cut her rival Molokini in half and proceeded to change her into stone. The head of the beautiful woman is apparently Puu Olai, which is the cinder cone located near the Makena Beach.

The Molokini islet is nestled along the southwest rift area of the Haleakala. The scientists from the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory suppose that the isle, whose peak stands around 160 feet above the sea level, most recently erupted more or less 230,000 years ago. Even if plenty of geologists think that Molokini is a relatively youthful volcanic formation, there are new evidences that imply that the islet is really a lot older and it could even be probably older than the Haleakala Crater.

These days, Molokini is as exquisite as ever and it is thought of as among the Aloha State’s leading dive spots. Its stunning crescent shape functions as a protection from the strong waves as well as from the powerful currents.

Molokini presents various sites that lure numerous beginners, intermediate and skilled scuba divers. For instance, the crater basin offers sheltered waters and it has a depth of merely 35 feet, which makes it perfect for those people who are just starting to dive and snorkel. Divers who are on the intermediate level, meanwhile, could set out to the underwater wall section that drops up to 70 feet. For expert divers, they could go ahead and be delighted by the panoramic view found at the crater’s back side, which could reach as deep as 350 feet.

Regardless of which level of diving one is currently in or whatever area of Molokini’s magical underwater world a person decides to delve into, one would surely come across sparkling azure waters as well as a variety of multicolored fish. This islet plays host to approximately 250 species of fish, which include tangs, surgeon fish, Moorish idols, parrot fish, and many more.

There are several boat tours that provide either a half-day or a full-day Molokini escapades. These are available on a daily basis from the Kihei Boat Ramp or even from the Ma‘alaea Harbor. These adventures typically encompass the snorkeling or scuba diving gear in addition to the refreshments. It would be best to take part in these tours during the morning for it presents the most ideal viewing conditions. One should also bear in mind that the isle is a recognized marine life conservation district. This actually means that the fish and the other marine life found here are not allowed to be caught, removed or even fed by tourists.

Molokini is truly an enchanting island in Hawaii. It is considered by many not just as a top diving site in Hawaii, but also in the world due to the outstanding visibility it offers. Be sure to have a look at this island’s eye-catching underwater world and it would be an experience one could not forget for a long time.

Show Respect to the Sacred Sites of Hawaii

Aside from its sun-kissed beaches, Hawaii is also home to several sacred places that have considerable historical as well as cultural importance. Plenty of these sacred sites bore witness to essential historic Hawaiian events like births of kings, human sacrifices, and other key events that happened in the past. These days, Hawaii locals believe that these sacred spots are truly a significant element of their rich culture and they are always respectful whenever they drop by these sites. Tourists should also show respect when they are visiting a Hawaiian sacred place and they should always abide by a few simple rules. The rules for each site are typically explained on a large sign located close to the sacred spot. Some normal rules include not climbing or stepping on the site as well as not making any noise and not removing or moving any items in the place.

On the Big Island, the Puu Loa Petroglyphs is believed to be holy grounds among the locals for this is where the Hawaiian fathers go to set down their babies’ umbilical cords to wish them a long life. This wide petroglyph land could be reached by travelers via a hike from the Chain of Craters Road. Kauai is home to a sacred place called the Wailua River State Park. This is thought of as among the most important cultural places of the state because this park has a lot of historical treasures that vary from early Hawaiian art to some temple ruins.

One of Lanai’s most sacred spots is the Halulu Heiau. This heiau is known as the preferred fishing site of King Kamehameha and for that reason, he constructed a temple here. The Halulu Heiau is among the ultimate sacred temples erected in Hawaii before the missionaries arrived in the state. The Piilanihale Heiau is a sacred place in Maui and it is a part of the celebrated Kahanu Garden. The Piilanihale Heiau is declared as a National Historic Landmark and it is also acknowledged as the biggest ancient temple in the entire Polynesian region. There are large and impressive lava rock terraces found in this heiau that were put up in the 13^th century.

The Halawa Valley is a sacred site found in Molokai. This valley is the spot where a lot of people lived and labored in the fields back in the olden times. There are also numerous ancient temples that tourists could visit here. On Oahu, travelers could check out the Kapaemahu Stones. These 4 huge stones named Kahaloa, Kinohi, Kapaemahu, and Kapuni are very significant in the island. According to legends, the priests or kahunas have stored their magnificent powers in these 4 historic rocks. These days, this well-known landmark depicts the vivid history of the island of Oahu.

A great idea when going to a sacred site in the Aloha State is to offer a little gift like some nuts, fruits, or a lei. Presenting a small token to the spirits is sort of an unwritten rule and plenty of people offer these gifts at any sacred place. Visiting these sacred sites is a good way for tourists to get to learn more about the Hawaiian Islands.

Abundant Marine Life

Have a Look at Hawaii’s Abundant Marine Life
Undoubtedly, Hawaii is renowned around the world for its beautiful and unusual beaches. Since most of the travelers in this state make it a point to stop by at a local beach when they are in the Hawaiian Islands, visitors would most likely come across some of its magical underwater beings. There are roughly 680 fish species that commonly inhabit the Hawaiian waters. Out of those varieties, around 450 species of fish actually remain close to both the inshore areas and the reefs. Listed below are some of the sea creatures that tourists might stumble upon while they are relaxing in the beach:

 

A sea life that is very familiar to Hawaii is the coral. The corals that are regularly seen in the Hawaiian Islands are solid, rock-like formations that are aptly named for their recognizable shapes such as cauliflower, plate, antler, finger, as well as razor coral. There are a few corals that seem soft like the tube coral and tourists would be able to find them in the ceilings of some caves. The black coral, which bears a resemblance to the winter-bare shrubs, could be located at depths of approximately over 100 feet.

 

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For travelers who visit Hawaii starting from November to April would be most likely see the popular humpback whales. These marine visitors drop by the islands in order to mate and give birth to their offspring each year. However, after spring, these whales would settle down in Alaska until it is time to come to Hawaii once again. Every Hawaiian Island offers tourists a chance to take some whale-watching cruises during winter that would let them watch these massive animals up close. People would also be able to observe these incredible leviathans from the shore. They could actually develop up to roughly 45 feet long, so when a humpback whale jumps out of the ocean, one would be able to view it from a distance. Other whales like sperm, pilot, pygmy killer, false killer, melon-headed, and beaked whales could also be seen all throughout the year, particularly in the tranquil waters outside the Kona Coast of the Big Island.

 

There are numerous reef fishes found in the waters of Hawaii. Butterfly fish is one of the most colorful among them all. They are frequently viewed in pairs, and they seem to use up most of their time in feeding. There are approximately 22 butterfly fish species and 3 of them, which are millet seed, bluestripe, and pebbled, are prevalent in the islands.

 

Hawaii is also famous for their big-game fish such as swordfish, marlin, as well as tuna. There are 6 types of billfish that can be found in the offshore waters all over the islands like the sailfish, striped marlin, broadbill swordfish, Pacific blue marlin, shortbill spearfish and the black marlin. The billfish in Hawaii vary in size beginning from the shortbill spearfish weighing 20 lbs. Up to the Pacific blue marlin weighing 1,805 lbs., which is the biggest marlin worldwide that was caught with just a rod and reel.

 

The Hawaiian Islands have plenty of things that they could take pride in such as their flourishing marine life. Their varied sea life is one thing that nature lovers and ordinary tourists alike would truly appreciate. These magnificent under-the-sea creatures would definitely draw a crowd since some of them are solely found in the tropical oasis of Hawaii. 

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.