One of the island’s biggest attractions is the Akaka Falls State Park. This is the place where guests will get to see a couple of impressive waterfalls. Tourists will no doubt marvel at the sight of the 440-foot tall Akaka Falls as well as the glorious Kahuna Falls. This park also offers picnic tables for people who want to enjoy the great view while eating. 

Another tourist destination in the Big Island is the Ahalunui Pool, which is a spa and an infinity pool all in one. Situated in an ocean, the Ahalunui Pool’s temperature is approximately 90 degrees Fahrenheit, which makes people who come here compare their experience to being pampered in a spa. 

For guests who are into outdoor activities, they will surely love the Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park. It offers tourists a chance to do kayaking, snorkeling, horseback riding, scuba diving, as well as hiking. In fact, this park also takes pride in having an underwater park and a historic temple. And believe it or not, guests could even go on a boat cruise here. 

The Big Island’s Holualoa Coffee Farm is another jewel of a place for travelers, particularly those who are addicted to caffeine. Visitors of this coffee farm will be able to see firsthand how the famous Kona coffee is produced. Aside from sightseeing and the informative coffee plantation tour, guests will be able to taste for themselves the renowned coffee of the Big Island. 

Also, guests of the Big Island should never even think of saying goodbye without seeing the Hilo Panaewa Zoo. This is a popular place for tourists because it is a zoo situated in a lush tropical rainforest. In this site, people will be able to see different animals, numbering to more than eighty species. It even includes wild animals such as tigers and endangered avian such as the Nene. 

The island of Hawaii is really a tourist’s delight. Aside from offering wonderful sights, the people of Big Island is as welcoming as the lei. Travelers will get to take pleasure in their favorite activities while enjoying the wonderful ambiance of this beautiful island. It is not surprising that this captivating place continues to attract guests and keep them coming back for more.

(image courtesy of Simonds at Flickr)

The word luau is normally associated with the famous celebrations held in this state. But guests might be surprised to know that there is actually a Hawaiian treat called Luau and it tastes wonderful. A luau recipe could actually contain either squid or chicken. What locals do is to wrap the chicken or squid with baked taro leaves and then coconut cream or milk is poured over them for added zest.

Tourists should also sample Ahi, one of Hawaii’s renowned delicacies. It is a yellow fin tuna that is usually served and eaten raw, similar to sushi or kimchi. Because there has been a decline in the quantity of blue fin tuna, yellow fin tuna has been substituted in making Ahi.

The Laulau is also a favorite among returning visitors to Hawaii. It is made up of salmon or butterfish plus one’s pick among chicken, beef, or pork that is covered again in taro leaves. The secret in making this dish absolutely divine is the time the Laulau spends steaming in an imu (a traditional underground oven), which can range from three to four hours.

The imu is also used when slowly cooking the famous Kalua Pig, which tastes salty and smoky at the same time. This dish has never failed to be included in any luau festival. The main ingredient of this celebrated cuisine is the butt meat of the pig, which is enclosed in banana leaves. It may sound a bit strange but once a person takes a bite of its juicy meat, he will want more.

Of course, Hawaii is also proud of its desserts. The Haupia is one of the state’s offerings to those who want to cure their dessert cravings. It is a pudding-like square bar measuring 2 inches and then topped off with toasted coconut. 

The Shave Ice of Hawaii is well-known around the world. It looks similar to a snow cone but the ice used for Shave Ice is finer. One can choose from a lot of flavors such as lime, vanilla, orange, root beer, coconut, and even bubblegum! Because there is an array of flavors to please different palates, people of all ages love this incredible treat. 

Hawaii truly has a rich tradition. Due to the fusion of cultures in this state, their food has also become a mixture of different cuisines. Because of this, Hawaiian fare became one of a kind and more importantly, extremely delectable.

(image courtesy of skyseeker at Flickr)

Tourists should try at least once in their lives to see Hawaii during New Year. Like the rest of the world, there is no shortage of colorful fireworks that lit up the sky to usher in the beginning of another year in Hawaii. With their booming sounds and flickering lights, these fireworks are believed to ward off wicked spirits and bad luck. 

In February, Hawaii celebrates its humpback whales throughout the whole month. In Maui, one can go to the Whale Festival to watch shows and parades honoring these gentle mammals. During this month, whales are abundant in the Hawaiian waters after spending their time Alaska. 

March is the month for the renowned three-day Honolulu Festival. It is actually a celebration of cultures from various nations. Travelers will get to see different performances from a lot of countries all over the globe and they should not miss the impressive parade that signals the end of the festival.

The annual Lei Day is celebrated once May comes rolling in. These flowers have long been associated with the hospitality of the Hawaiian locals and they saw it fit to honor the Lei with its own day. Aside from the usual music and merry-making, Lei Day is filled with hula dancing as well as lei-making competitions. 

Cowboys or those who simply adore horses should come to Hawaii in July. Every year, one of the most-anticipated events called the Makawao Rodeo is held. Aside from rodeo competitions, this festival also offers dancing, rodeo clowns and other entertainment that will please their guests. 

It cannot be helped that Hawaii during Christmas always teems with visitors from other states and countries who are enjoying their holiday breaks. Since Hawaii is home to people of various nationalities, Christmas is celebrated here in many ways. Of course, the old-fashioned Christmas trees and gift-giving are also part of the traditions in Hawaii.

There are still plenty of holidays and festivals in Hawaii that travelers looking for some good, clean fun can be part of. In truth, nothing beats experiencing a Hawaiian festivity firsthand. The only thing that tourists have to remember is to book in advance, particularly if there are holidays, so that their trip to Hawaii will be happy, unforgettable, and stress-free.

(image courtesy of B Mully at Flickr)

Speaking of immaculate and untouched beaches, tourists should go ahead and visit the tranquil Maha`ulepu Beach. It is home to several remarkable plant and animal species plus it is the ultimate site for people who want to fish, surf, hike, or dive. This beach is also acknowledged as Kauai’s live museum because it offers guests a chance to take a glimpse of the island’s history.

For those who are into nature, they will also have the time of their lives at Kauai’s Allerton Garden, also called the Earth’s Garden of Eden. It surely lives up to its nickname for it is a true paradise. It features a wide range of bright, exotic plants and flowers. Also, one will be able to see a stunning manmade beach with green and blue waves known as the Lawai Kai within this garden.

If a traveler wants to see breathtaking mountain sights, he should hop onboard a helicopter and ask for a tour of the island. In fact, this is a great way to start exploring Kauai because one can see the view from the top of the sites that he will be visiting later on. The helicopter tour will let tourists be mesmerized by sparkling waterfalls and impressive mountains, particularly the 3,000-foot high Mount Waialeale.

Tourists who want an unusual adventure can go to the legendary Blue Room of Kauai. It is located within a damp cave and it boasts of having exceptional rock formations. When the rays of the sun pass through the cracks of the cave and hit the crystal clear waters, they turn into incredible blue lights, hence the name. 

If guests are in the mood for eating or shopping, they should go to the Ke Ala Hele Makalae, which grants access to various dining and shopping places. When translated, it means The Path that goes by the Coast. For people who would like to ride a bike, they may also do it here in this cemented trail or pathway.

Golf aficionados will definitely fall in love with the Kukuiolono Golf Course and Park. Located at a hilltop, players will be treated to marvelous ocean sights while having a good time.

There are a lot of sites that one can explore in the island of Kauai. With its nearly perfect climate all year long, it is impossible for tourists not to find anything that they can do here. From the mundane to the most complex activities, Kauai has the ideal places that will suit the various preferences of its guests.

(image courtesy of Mumbley Joe at Flickr)

For instance, tourists can go and have fun in the Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area. This is the place to go for people who are into sightseeing, bird hunting, or mountain hiking. But it is advisable to wear layered clothes when hiking or camping here because the temperature could be really cold. If one suddenly had the urge to camp, the Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area also has camping facilities for families or big groups. For those who want to eat while taking in the sights, they even provided a special picnic zone. There is really no need to hurry whenever they visit here because they actually offer lodging areas for the guests.

If one is in Maui, they should not hesitate to drop by the famous Venus Pool, also referred to as the Waikoa Pond. This naturally created pool is part of a series of waterfalls and pools. Locals actually believed that in the olden times, only members of the royalty could go inside this site and pamper themselves. These days, visitors frequent this place if they are in need of relaxation because the pool’s calm water is perfect for some quiet time.

Tourists will also enjoy their time in Maui’s Red Sand Beach or the Kaihalulu. It is a one of a kind beach because it has authentic red sand scattered in the area. Since the Kaihalulu is located within a volcanic cone, the ashes that eroded from this became the red sand that it is now famous for. Nowadays, guests go here if they want to snorkel, swim or even just lie in the sun.

Maui, being the second largest island in Hawaii, is really the place to be if a person wants to have a good time. It is the ideal place for families and friends to bond or if one simply feels the need to relax. Nothing could compare to the allure of this island. With its fantastic resorts, child-friendly sites, abundant rainforests, and gorgeous beaches, Maui truly offers everything a person can ask for and more.

(image courtesy of Taiger808 at Flickr)

A number of exciting and terrific activities await tourists in Oahu. Surfing is surely the best and the ever popular sport of most people visiting the island. Oahu possibly has the most perfect waves in the world. Some surfers prefer coming here during summer to have the best time of their lives. Other professional surfers, on the other hand, travel all the way to North Shore every winter to join and compete in the annual surfing contest. The waves are extremely high and dangerous, often reaching 25 feet during the season.

Other delightful activities visitors should not dare miss out include swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling in one of the best beaches in Oahu. The perfect sun, clear skies, and crystal-like waters will make an ideal getaway that beach lovers will enjoy. Vacationers can also try a unique experience of swimming with the dolphins, a memory one will definitely not forget.

After enjoying the beach activities, tourists can now explore the mainland. The Hoomaluhia State Park is a wonderful place to be. It is also known as a Place of Peace and Tranquility. As the name implies, nature lovers can take a long and calming stroll in this 400-acre land. Here, they will see an array of special and rare plant species.

Tourists who wish to go on a camping trip can experience it personally for there are campgrounds available in the park. Near the campgrounds, there is a wide lake for campers to have a serene and soothing experience.

A visit to the Contemporary Museum will take the visitors to a deeper understanding of Hawaiian culture and history. Not only offering a collection of contemporary arts, travelers can also enjoy the spectacular view of Diamond Head from here.

The Father Damien Museum is another famous tourist destination for most guests who wish to witness a miracle. It can be found at the back of St. Augustine along Waikiki Beach. It honors and presents the life of a priest named Father Damien, who gave up his life to help the lepers of Molokai.

Hopeless romantics can simply enjoy taking a dinner cruise or walking along the shore with their loved one. They can also relax during the night by watching hula shows or even dancing to the Hawaiian music.

With all the fun and wonderful activities to do, Oahu is indeed a place to visit. Tourists will not only take a glimpse of numerous natural wonders, but they will surely bring back home countless of memories with them.

(image courtesy of Jeff Kubina at Flickr)

In the Hawaiian Islands, rainfall is relatively moderate. On the whole, Hawaii enjoys only two seasons, which are winter and summer. There are pros and cons of visiting Hawaii on either of these two seasons.

For example, most people prefer to visit Hawaii during the summer. Why not, right? Summer in Hawaii translates to little or no rain showers. The temperature from May until October is around 30 degrees Celsius, which is ideal for those who are eager to enjoy various activities in the beach. Summer is the right time to bask in the sun, take surfing or snorkeling lessons, and even have several rounds of golf. In the evening, guests will feel cooler due to the drop in temperature and it usually ranges from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius.

However, because summer is a peak season in this state, plenty of visitors pack in Hawaii’s numerous beaches or resorts. From June until August, people crowd the most popular hangouts since they are making the most of their vacations. Around these months, expect to see throngs of people in the Hawaiian Islands and rates are also undoubtedly higher.

Winter in Hawaii brings about more rain showers, specifically during November to December. If tourists would like to tour drier areas during winter, they can go to Oahu’s Waikiki Beach, Kauai’s Poipu Beach, Big Island’s Kona and Kohala, or Maui’s Makena, Kihei, and Wailea. 

Actually, winter officially starts in mid-October and ends in April. The temperature during this season varies from 15 degrees to 28 degrees Celsius during the day. It is a great period to get a glimpse of tall waves and take pleasure in cooler winds. One of the activities that people can do during the winter is to watch different surfing competitions. Only expert surfers can navigate the dangerously strong waves during this season. For those who want to go out at night, it is best to bring along sweaters, shawls, or jackets since the temperature can reach as low as 10 degrees Celsius.

May it be winter or summer season, any time is really the perfect time to drop by and discover Hawaii. With a setting so beautiful, it just makes people realize that something so close to paradise still exists on Earth.

(image courtesy of R.J. Malfalfa at Flickr)

1. Visitors should make some time for a helicopter tour in Kauai. It is an exceptional experience that they will not soon forget. The helicopter will take the guests soaring over mountain peaks and they will also get to appreciate the grandeur of waterfalls as they fly high above.
2. Hawaii is no doubt legendary when it comes to beaches so travelers must definitely visit one before they leave. It is practically impossible not to be tempted to soak up some sun because there are plenty of immaculate beaches that a person can pick from. There are even multi-colored sand beaches here that people of all ages will truly enjoy.
3. Tourists should go and experience snorkeling in the clear and serene waters of Hawaii. But if they do not want to get wet or they are scared of getting in the water, they can take glass-bottomed boat cruises in the Molokini Island. This way, they can still appreciate and be amazed by the wonderful marine life that can only be found in Hawaii.
4. Playing golf is fun anytime, of course. But once guests have experienced teeing off with Hawaii’s landscape as a backdrop, they will not look at golf courses the same way again.
5. Animal lovers will do well to join a catamaran cruise. They will be able to see humpback whales strut their stuff and demonstrate the unusual tricks that only they can do.
6. A trip to Hawaii is never complete without dropping by the Big Island’s Kilauea Volcano. Aside from being included in the world’s list of most active volcanoes, visitors might be surprised to know that lava has been incessantly streaming from the Kilauea Volcano since 1983!
7. A true Hawaiian experience also involves trying out their native dishes. There are a lot of local restaurants offering Hawaiian cuisine and tourists are definitely most welcome to eat here.
8. Kauai’s Waimea Canyon is another place that should be in a traveler’s itinerary. Dubbed as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, this will unquestionably make one’s jaw literally drop in amazement with its beauty and splendor.
9. Nature enthusiasts will greatly appreciate Maui’s Halaekala Mountain. Tourists will be able to climb up the mountain and actually see the crater of this dormant volcano. It is a unique experience to be on top of this mountain and see the stunning sight below.
10. Before ending their Hawaiian escapade, visitors should join a traditional luau. Witness and be part of this one of a kind merrymaking, which is full of music, colors, and dance presentations.

These activities are just some of the best things that Hawaii can offer tourists. When one visits the Hawaiian Islands, they are sure to have a memorable time with their loved ones. So visitors should really plan ahead and have an itinerary, in order to maximize their time in a paradise such as Hawaii.

(image courtesy of Jeff Kubina at Flickr)

1. Tourists can always drop by the remarkable museums of Hawaii. Aside from learning more about the history and culture of this wonderful state, a visit to the museums will not cost much.
2. Guests can also hike on one of Hawaii’s finest trails. It might be a simple activity to do, but it is definitely worthwhile. People will get to take pictures of the scenic sights along the way, including those of lush mountains as well as the sparkling waters of one of the numerous beaches of Hawaii.
3. Another activity that travelers can enjoy without having to spend so much is to go on a picnic. Hawaii presents its guests with countless parks that let people eat and talk with their loved ones while admiring the beauty of nature.
4. Vacationers will also find it fun to watch expert surfers showcase their skills on the board. It is free yet entertaining to hang out in the beach with one’s family while observing surfers as they ride the high waves.
5. People can also simply chill out in a gorgeous beach and laze in the sun. One can just sunbathe while listening to an iPod, read a book, or even just take a leisurely walk along the relaxing seashore.
6. If tourists have around $20 in their wallets, they can indulge in snorkeling to see the colorful sea life of Hawaii. For those who do not want to rent snorkeling equipment, they also have the option of joining a boat cruise with clear bottoms to still catch a glimpse of the Hawaiian underwater world.
7. It is also exciting to see live humpback whales without pulling out a lot of bills from their wallets. Visitors can sign up for a catamaran cruise and they will be able to watch these adorable mammals display enthralling tricks such as amazing flips in the air before going back to the sea.
8. Eating Shave Ice is one more cheap yet pleasurable activity that one can do in Hawaii. It is akin to eating a snow cone but Shave Ice is better in consistency and taste. Plus, with all the delectable flavors that are available, anyone will have a hard time deciding which flavor to get.
9. When in Hawaii, one should also participate in local celebrations. This is an inexpensive way to have a good time while getting to know Hawaii’s customs. The Makawao Rodeo, the Maui County Fair, and the Taro Festival are just a few of those fun-filled events that tourists should be part of.
10. The sunset in Hawaii is another thing that may be cheap but seeing it is beyond price. Watching the sun change into vivid colors as it goes down will no doubt make one’s Hawaiian trip complete. 

In truth, a person can still have fun in the Hawaiian Islands without breaking the bank. Even if one has a fixed budget, just spending time with family and friends in Hawaii can be enjoyable.

(image courtesy of pinhole Mark at Flickr)

1. Never take the lei off your neck. These colorful flowers are usually given to welcome tourists to the beautiful islands of Hawaii. Removing it can be disrespectful.
2. Never be ignorant. Don’t come to Hawaii without even knowing something about it. Learn some basic Hawaiian words such as Aloha (Hello, Goodbye) and Mahalo (Thank You). Knowing these words will make a difference during your stay.
3. Never say the word “what.” This word has been known to initiate a fight. Visitors are advised not to use this word when speaking to a native.
4.  Never call men and women as mokes and tita. These words are simply derogatory to them.
5. Never break into private properties. People can stay and swim in most Hawaiian beaches. However, trespassing in a privately-owned beach is a serious crime. Keep in mind that ignorance of the law will never be an excuse.
6. Never swim or sunbathe in the nude. Not all Hawaiian beaches are open to this kind of idea. Read the signs first before doing anything that can cause public scandal.
7. Never ruin the corals. Visitors are ordered to read all the guidelines before snorkeling or scuba diving so as to be informed that touching or stepping on coral reefs can actually damage them. Preserving these wonderful things is also protecting the sea life.
8. Never make noise with your car’s horn. Unless there’s an emergency, tourists should avoid honking their horns.
9. Never laugh at Hawaiian tradition. Hula is a popular traditional dance that most people enjoy. Laughing at it is an insult to Hawaiian locals.
10. Never be thrifty in buying souvenirs to the point of giving away black sand or lava rocks. These things are considered to be unlucky and may cause the person bad luck. Spend some money for decent souvenirs to give your loved ones. 

Remember that it is always best to know what to do and what not to do in Hawaii. Following these simple guidelines will make your Hawaiian vacation more enjoyable and worry-free.

(image courtesy of Cougar-Studio at Flickr)