| 1. Kilauea in Hawai‘i's Volcanoes National Park, has been visited more times then any other Volcano in the world. Kilauea hasn't stopped its activity since 1983, making it the longest uninterrupted eruption in recorded history and regardless of when you go, you're guaranteed to see lava flow down its slopes - an amazing sight to behold. Maui also has some exciting volcanic extravaganzas, with Haleakala (meaning house of the sun) the most visited volcano on the Hawaiian Islands where you can even see lava formations which are over 1.1 million years old. 2. 11 Different Climates - The ‘Big Island’ is the most geographically diverse of Hawai‘i islands, boasting 11 of the earth’s 13 different climates. There are black lava desert plains, waterfalls, rainforest, the world’s most active volcano and even snow-capped mountains on offer, making it a fantastic geographical miracle and a truly fascinating place to explore. 3. Na Pali Coast - The name tells it all: Na Pali, "the cliffs". Here, the volcanic island of Kaua‘i plunges into the sea, lush valleys open onto hidden beaches, and the famous Kalalau Trail lives up to its reputation as a pathway to paradise. The daunting terrain and sheer sea cliffs, which can drop more than 1,000 feet, have prevented road building so the only way in is by foot, helicopter or boat. The ocean approach offers a broad perspective of sheer coastal palis and waterfalls cascading into the sea, a view that has awed visitors for since a British fur trader first sailed along this coast in the late 1780s. 4. The Barrier Reef - On the Island of Molaka’i there is a beautiful sight to behold, for the Islands of Aloha are the proud owners of a sensational 28-mile coral reef which is one of the only barrier reefs north of Australia. Find a high spot in the hills and gaze down upon this pristine and awe inspiring vision. 5. A Waterfall - Hawai‘i is the proud owner of some of the world’s most enchanting waterfalls such as Rainbow and Akaka Falls on the ‘Big Island’ or the Blue Angel Falls on Maui. They truly come in all sizes, from the smallest roadside run-off to the mightily impressive Opaekaa falls in Kaua‘i, where the water plunges dramatically into a hidden pool. Have a drive or take a hike through the valleys on all the Islands and you may be rewarded with a glimpse of one of Hawai‘i's many secret waterfalls. 6. Kohala Mountain Range - This breathtaking Big Island mountain range extends 21 miles north from Waimea to Upolu Point and reaches a high point at Kaunu-o-Kaleoohie (5,505 feet). The views are amazing and watching the sunset over the Pacific coastline is a site not to be missed, while the drive up to the mountain on Hawai‘i’s Highway 250 has been voted as one of the 10 most scenic drives in America. 7. Submarine Voyage - Anyone can go snorkelling but how many people can say they've explored the deep blue in an actual submarine? Discover a whole new world 100 feet below the sea in the air-conditioned comfort of a Submarine. If you choose to step onboard one of Hawai‘i’s underwater vessels on either O‘ahu or Maui you will see the beautiful coral reefs and all of Hawai‘i’s sea life for miles around… all without getting wet! 8. Luahiwa Petroglyphs - The Petroglyphs are ancient primitive works that resemble cave-man drawings and are inscribed on boulders on Lana‘i on a steep slope overlooking the Palawai Basin. Recognised as some of the best-preserved petroglyphs on Lana‘i, these rock carvings depict animals, people and ancient symbols. They can be found at the end of a steep dirt road that winds through the pineapple fields and is only accessible with the help of a four-wheel-drive vehicle 9. Waimea Canyon - The largest canyon in the Pacific can be found in Kaua‘i, measuring a staggering 10 miles long, 1 mile wide and more than 3,500-feet deep. It was carved thousands of years ago by rivers and floods that flowed from Mount Waialeale's summit and so the lines in the canyon walls depict different volcanic eruptions and lava flows that have occurred over the centuries. Though smaller than the Grand Canyon of Arizona, Waimea Canyon rivals the beauty with numerous lookouts and hikes offering terrific views of this natural wonder. Or, if you’re short on time, a helicopter trip will ensure get the best seat in the house as you take in all the dramatic beauty of both this and the Na Pali Coast! 10. Dole Plantation and the World's Largest Maze - Everything you wanted to know about pineapples - how they grow, how they taste fresh from the field, the history and how this crop changed Hawai‘i, not to mention the opportunity to take home all sorts of tasty treats and trinkets for yourself. Then, next to the Dole Plantation Country Store, the hibiscus maze proves an amazing challenge and a fun way to get lost. |
Australian Travel Info & Advice
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O'ahu is the most visited of the Hawaiian Islands, home to the vibrant city of Waikiki Beach with its fantastic dining, shopping & nightlife, North Shore's banzai pipeline, snorkelling at Hanauma Bay, and an impressive arts and culture scene. Read more ...
