From pristine sandy beaches to jagged cliffs and lush green rainforests, Hawaii has it all. Even the names of the islands sound beautiful and exotic; Oahu, Kauai, Maui and Lanai are just a few of them. However, mere words do not do any of these locations justice. The Hawaiian Islands are incomparable to anywhere else on earth and have some of the most impressive terrain on the planet.
- Waikiki Beach/ltus / Foter / CC BY-NC-ND
It is hard to narrow down the best spots to visit, but here are a just few of the best.
The Lahaina Historic District
Everyone knows that Hawaii is filled with fantastic beaches, breathtaking waterfalls and gorgeous vistas, but not everyone is aware of the state’s rich history. The Lahaina Historic District, located on the island of Maui, is one of the few sites that have actually held onto Hawaii’s cultural past. The Hawaii of the mid- to late-nineteenth century is apparent here. While visiting the Lahaina Historic District, be sure not to miss the Hale Pa’ahao prison, which was built in the 1830s or Wailea Church; it dates back even further, to 1823 and has a host of historic tombstones belonging to Hawaiian nobility.
The Waikiki area
No visit to the Hawaiian Islands would be complete without spending some time in the Waikiki area, especially Honolulu. Honolulu, the state’s capital, is one of the more high-profile destinations, with a wide range of upscale resorts, such as the Sheraton Waikiki. A bustling urban strip, lined with skyscrapers, makes up the downtown area, where most of the city’s action takes place. Though the area is built-up, the marriage between Hawaii’s pristine natural beauty and the city appears seamless, so visitors get the best of both worlds. Honolulu is the epicenter of it all and even when not staying in the Waikiki area, it is well worth spending some time exploring there.
Lanai
For anyone who wants to get away from it all, Lanai is the perfect Hawaiian destination. Escape the crowds and hustle and bustle of Hawaii’s Big Island and melt troubles away on this elegant, tranquil island. Known as Hawaii’s “Most Enticing Island” the rainforests, majestic pines and views across to Maui are second to none. Lanai is also perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Hawaii; the Munro Trail is ideal for hiking, as are the iconic landscapes of Keahiakawelo (“Garden of the Gods”) and Puu Pehe (“Sweetheart Rock”).
Molokai
Another beautiful, yet often underrated Hawaiian Island, is Molokai. It is here that visitors will be inspired by some of the highest sea cliffs in the world. Along Molokai’s northern coast is the Kalaupapa Peninsula, home to the Kalaupapa National Historical Park. With an unspoiled coastline, serene seascapes and untamed wilderness, it is no surprise that a visit to Molokai is like stepping back in time. There is no traffic or traffic lights to distract, no building taller than a coconut palm, only the energy of the Hawaiian culture and the natural wonders of Halawa Valley.
Hilo
Hilo is one of the more popular vacation destinations on the ‘Big Island’, probably because it retains all the natural glory of the islands, while providing the amenities modern day traveler’s demand. A cool urban setting is just steps away from a glorious oceanfront, waterfalls and rolling hills. For visitors interested in astronomy, the nearby volcano, Mona Kea, is home to several of the world’s largest observatories.
