Hawaii - everything you need to know
Introduction
Home of the world’s most active volcano and the world’s tallest sea mountain. Birthplace of surfing and the hula. Former seat of a royal kingdom. Hawaii is one of the youngest geological formations in the world and the youngest state of the union. But perhaps Hawaii’s most unique feature is its Aloha Spirit: the warmth of the people of Hawaii that wonderfully complements the Islands’ perfect temperatures.
There are primarily six major islands to visit in Hawaii: Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, and Hawaii’s Big island. You’ll find each island has its own distinct personality and offers its own adventures, activities, and sightseeing opportunities. We invite you to explore all of Hawaii to find the unique island experience for you.
Hawaii Quick Facts
- Kauai’s incredible Waimea Canyon is 10 miles long, and one mile wide.
- Duke Kahanamoku, the “Father of Modern Surfing,” grew up in Waikiki on Oahu.
- The tallest sea cliffs in the world can be found on Molokai’s north side.
- A hulking ship is still trapped in the waters of Shipwreck Beach on Lanai.
- The crater of Haleakala on Maui is roughly the size of the island of Manhattan.
- Kileaua Volcano in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on Hawaii’s Big Island is the world’s most active volcano.
State Name:
Hawaii
State Nickname:
The Aloha State
Capital City:
Honolulu
Population:
1,262,840
Time Zone:
Hawaii Standard Time (GMT-10 hours), 5 hours behind the US East Coast, 6 hours behind during Daylight Saving Time (Hawaii does not observe Daylight Saving
Time).
Languages:
English
Hawaiian
Currency:
US dollar. Credit cards are widely accepted. Traveler’s checks are accepted at many businesses.
Average Temperature:
April- November: 75˚-88˚ F.
December- March: 68˚-80˚ F.
Average water temperature: 74˚ F.
Area Code/Cell phones:
The area code for all of Hawaii is (808). Cell phone coverage on most Islands is readily available if you’re coming from the US. Check your carrier and calling plan for details.
Internet Access:
Internet access is readily available on most islands and at many hotels.
Accommodations:
Luxury resorts, hotels, bed and breakfasts, rental cottages and condos are located throughout the islands.
Transportation:
Transportation options include car rentals, tour buses, shuttles, taxis or city buses.
Clothing:
Dress casually. Bring a light jacket for nights. Bring semi-casual dress clothes or resort wear for restaurants and nightlife. Suits and ties are rarely worn.
Tipping:
U.S. standards apply: 15-20% on meals, at least $1 per bag for porters, and at least $1 per night for housekeeping.
CHOOSE AN ISLAND:
KAUAI
The oldest and northernmost island in the Island chain is graced with dramatic, natural beauty. Outdoor adventures and romantic escapades flourish on Kauai.
- Explore the golden sand beaches of the Coconut Coast.
- See the massive Waimea Canyon, “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific.”
- Take a boat ride to marvel at the towering cliffs of the Napali Coast.
OAHU
Home to the state capitol and the majority of Hawaii’s population, Oahu is a vibrant mix of natural and cultural wonders with the modern arts, entertainment, and amenities of the 21st century.
- See pro surfers charge the big winter waves of the famous North Shore.
- Learn about American history at the memorials and museums in Pearl Harbor.
- Soak up the sun and learn to surf yourself on legendary Waikiki Beach.
MOLOKAI
With almost half of its population being of native Hawaiian ancestry, Molokai is an island that has preserved its connection to the past and its love for the outdoors.
- Step back to a simpler time in the sleepy town of Kaunakakaki.
- View the verdant flora in Halawa Valley.
- Learn about the works of Father Damien at Kalaupapa Settlement.
LANAI
Without a single traffic light, Lanai is a true island getaway for luxury, romance, and privacy away from crowds.
- Play golf at Lanai’s two prestigious courses.
- See the rock formations at Keahiakawelo, “The Garden of the Gods.”
- Off-road amongst the pine trees along Munro Trail.
MAUI
The second largest island is home to what some believe are the best beaches in the world, as well as Humpback whales who migrate off Maui’s shores every winter.
- Wake up early to catch the sunrise atop Haleakala.
- Stroll through historic Lahaina, and learn about Maui’s whaling past.
- Drive the long and winding road to Hana for spectacular scenery.
HAWAII’S BIG ISLAND
Bigger than all of the other islands combined, the island of Hawaii, or Hawaii’s Big Island, is vast enough to hold 11 of the world’s 13 climactic zones-from sandy beaches to snowcapped mountains.
- See the waterfalls and seascapes off the Hamakua Coast.
- Snorkel, scuba, or fish off the Kohala Coast.
- View Kilauea, the world’s most active volcano in Volcano’s National Park.
HISTORY:
But the history of Hawaii goes back centuries earlier. More than 1500 years ago, Polynesians from the Marquesas Islands first set foot on Hawaii’s Big Island. With only the stars to guide them, they miraculously sailed over 2000 miles in canoes to migrate to the Islands. 500 years later, the warring factions of the Big Island and went on to unify all of the Hawaiian Islands into one royal kingdom in 1810. In 1819, less than a year after King Kamehameha’s death, his son, Liholiho, abolished the ancient kapu system.
In 1820, the first Protestant missionaries arrived on the Big Island filling the void left after the end of the kapu system. Hawaii became a port for seamen, traders, and whalers. Throughout these years of growth, western disease took a heavy toll on the native Hawaiian population.
Western influence continued to grow and in 1893, American Colonists who controlled much of Hawaii’s economy overthrew the Hawaiian Kingdom in a peaceful, yet still controversial coup. In 1898, Hawaii became a territory of the United States.
In the 20th century sugar and pineapple plantations fueled Hawaii’s economy bringing an influx of Japanese, Chinese, Filipino, and Portuguese immigrants. On December 7, 1941, the Japanese launched a surprise attack on Pearl Harbor on Oahu. Four years later, on September 2, 1945, Japan signed its unconditional surrender on the USS Battleship Missouri, which still rests in Pearl Harbor today.
In 1959, Hawaii became the 50th State of the United States. Beyond the sun and surf of the islands, we urge you to discover the rich cultural history of the Islands of Aloha to add even more depth to your visit.
TRAVEL TIPS:
Getting to Hawaii
Honolulu International Airport (HNL) on Oahu is Hawaii’s major airport, serving as the entry point for most of Hawaii’s visitors. All twenty-three major domestic carriers and sixteen international carriers serve Oahu, so you can get here from just about anywhere.
There are also direct flights from the mainland to Maui, Kauai, and Hawaii’s Big Island, but for the most part, you may need to connect through Oahu to get to the neighbor islands.
Staying in Hawaii
Finding accommodations is easy in Hawaii. You’ll find everything here from historic hotels and boutiques, to bed and breakfasts, rental condos, and luxury resorts. You’ll find more than 30,000 hotel rooms on Oahu alone.
Anytime of year is a good time to visit Hawaii. Summer, between April and November, is warmer and drier (average temperature is 75˚-88˚ F) while winter, between December and March, is a bit cooler (68˚-80˚ F). Trade winds keep things comfortable year-round.
Traveling in Hawaii
To really experience all that Hawaii offers, you should consider renting a car. Many visitors also enjoy taking bus tours to conveniently explore the Islands. Shuttles, taxis, and public transport are available on most islands.
Things to do:
If you’re visiting Hawaii just to sunbathe and enjoy the near perfect weather, you won’t leave disappointed. But the six unique Islands of Aloha each possess richer adventures, sights and attractions to discover. Unforgettable natural wonders. Historic sites. Local arts, culture, and entertainment. Adventure awaits on the Islands of Aloha.
ACTIVITIES
With a matchless environment as your playground and a multi-faceted culture and history to explore, there’s no shortage of things to see and do on the six unique Islands of Aloha. Explore the links below to discover your ideal Hawaii itinerary.
DINING
Because of its unique geographic location, you’ll find a host of international culinary influences here. In fact, Hawaii chefs have created their own cooking style called Hawaii Regional Cuisine, which uses fresh local ingredients prepared with a contemporary twist. Explore the links below to see what’s cooking on your next trip to Hawaii.
GOLF
Welcome to golf heaven. With more than 80 courses to choose from, Hawaii is home to PGA TOUR events and some of the most lauded golf courses in the country. With so much scenic beauty to enjoy, golfers of every skill-level bring their best games to in Hawaii.
SHOPPING
In Hawaii you’ll find everything from local specialty shops and one-of-a-kind boutiques to popular national retailers and high-end stores.
Beyond the Aloha shirt (Hawaiian shirt) and muumuu (Hawaiian dress) you’ll discover a variety of unique local merchandise including Hawaiian jewelry, quilts, art, ceramics, books, and fashion. Specialty foods to take home include Kona coffee, macadamia nuts, preserves, and other snacks.
With only a 4.166% excise tax on retail purchases, plan on packing another bag on your trip back from Hawaii.
WEDDINGS AND HONEYMOONS
It’s no wonder why Hawaii is one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in the world. Beauty and romance thrive on every island making Hawaii the perfect setting for weddings and post-reception relaxation. Local wedding service providers have years of experience creating memorable ceremonies for couples from around the world.
Hawaii in 5 images :
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Its gorgeous…… I like the photos.