By: Maha Mourad
IF you feel that it’s time for a holiday, then look no further than Hawaii where you are bound to forget reality, and live the life you’ve always dreamt of.
The state of Hawaii, located around the centre of the Pacific Ocean, is home to six major islands. These six major islands are home to tropical beaches, oceanic surroundings, warm climate and natural scenery making Hawaii a very popular tourist destination.
The islands include Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui and Hawai’i, and each is distinctive from one another ranging from the activities, tourist destinations, and experiences.
Kauai – the Garden Isle
This island is located to the north of the entire Hawaiian Islands and is most renowned for its natural beauty. Kauai is just the place to go if you are looking for somewhere to appreciate the sanctuary of islands and white sand beaches.
Some of the main highlights of this island include; Wailua Falls, which is home to Kauai’s most renowned waterfall; Poipu Beach; Waimea Canyon, which is also known as the ‘Grand Canyon of the Pacific’. Some activities to take up on this Island, include hiking at Kokee State Park as well as at Kalalau Trail; or you could spend some time on one of the islands many Gardens such as Limahuli Garden.
Oahu – The Gathering Place
Home to the capital state of Hawaii, Oahu is the perfect place if you are interested in both natural and cultural experiences. At this island, your activities can vary from surfing, to gaining knowledge at Museums, to dining on ethnic foods.
The main highlights of this island include; Waikiki Beach, where you can opt for surfing lessons; Pearl Harbor Museums, to explore historical sites and memorials of the attack; snorkelling at Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, enjoying the mountain views of Nuuanu Pali Lookout; and surfing the big waves at North Shore.
Molokai – The Friendly Isle
Are you looking for a place where there are no skyscrapers or even traffic lights? If so, Molokai is the place to be, with the chance to live like the locals. If you prefer to be riding a bike or in a 4-wheel drive or on foot, you can at all times experience untouched beaches and land. This island is home to Papohaku Beach, Hawaii’s biggest white sanded beach which gives you the perfect opportunity to relax and forget everything. Or you could go hiking along 520meter cliffs, leading all the way to Kalaupapu National Historical Park. The views here a not to be missed!
Lanai – The Private Isle
Running short on time and want to be in two places at once? Lanai can solve your problem as it is just that! At one stage you can be lounging at a luxurious beach resort while enjoying high class services, or watching some championship level gold at either The Experience at Koele or The Challenge at Manele. While on the other day you can be riding in a 4-wheel drive discovering natural treasures on pathways such as at Polihua Beach or Kaehiakawelo (the Garden of the Gods). You can definitely relax in both of these atmospheres where you can get away from reality.
Maui – The Valley Isle
If you are looking for the perfect beaches to stay at, while basing your entire itinerary around the beach, then Maui Island is where you want to be. Having been voted for having some of the best beaches in the world, you don’t want to miss the opportunity to be here where you can also have the chance for whale watching.