Widely considered some of the best islands in the Pacific, the Hawaiian Islands range from busy and vibrant to remote and tropical. Home to the world’s tallest mountain and Pearl Harbor, Hawaii is also a hot spot for exploring volcanoes and scuba diving.
Explore: Hanalei • Hanna • Hilo • Honolulu • Kaanapali • Kailua (Kona) • Lahaina • Lihue • Waimea
The state is perhaps best known as popular honeymoon retreat, but escape the main tourist hubs, and you will find an array of stunning beach locations and jungle escapes.
Honolulu, the state’s capital, is home to famous beaches such as Waikiki and Sunset Beach. Lovers of history will enjoy a visit to Pearl Harbor, and the former Hawaiian monarchy’s Royal Palace, while nature lovers will love Diamond Head Volcano. Full of excellent beaches and top class resorts, Maui is a popular tourist destination. From the tourist hubs of Kaanapali, Lahaina and Kihei it is easy to explore the rest of the island. Windsurfers should head to world renowned Hookipa Beach.
Hawaii Island itself contains some beautiful and diverse ecology, including rainforests, deserts, snow capped mountains and volcanoes. Visit the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park for a taste of what the island has to offer. The small towns of Waikoloa, Hilo and Kona make for great places to stay. The lush green island of Kauai is unarguably one of the world’s most beautiful places. Visit the extremely wet Mount Waialeale, and the 835m deep Waimea Canyon for some incredible experiences.
Surrounded by lava fields, Kiholo Bay is a paradise of black volcanic sand beaches and palm trees. Kauai’s locals love Secret Beach, with its stunning cliff scenery hidden from the main road by a mask of jungle. Expect to see some nude sunbathing.
Hanauma Bay on Oahu is a wonderful place for snorkelling and diving. Set within a volvanic ring, the area’s stunning coral reef and rainbow colored fish are enjoyed by the masses. An incredible natural phenomenon is the Toilet Bowl, which is a giant hole in the rocks that is connected to the sea.