The Hawai'ian islands are the most isolated archipelago
on the planet, yet through the development of modern
tourism have become one of the most heavily visited
places on earth. In it's isolation, a unique biodiversity
has developed in which 90% of the Hawai'ian islands
flora and fauna is found nowhere else in the world.
The very name 'Hawai'i' evokes images of cheap honeymoon
packages, swaying plastic hula dolls and Don Ho crooning
in Waikiki. This is one side of Hawai'i, but
much more remains begging to be explored once you
get off the package tourist track and head for rural
Oahu and the outer islands.
On Oahu, try your hand at surfing on Waikiki beach,
the sport once reserved for Hawai'ian royalty. On
Kauai, kayak the island's largest navigable
river or hike the amazing Na Pali Coast. Drive
to the top of Maui's Haleakala Crater where
a fantastic sunrise makes the 4am wakeup call worth
it. On the 'Big Island' of Hawai'i watch the
newest land in the world being formed as volcanoes
pour out lava; or do a night dive with gentle manta
rays. Roll up your sleeves and take a Hula class
that will connect you to the island's ancient past.
Whatever you seek in Hawai'i, it won't disapoint as
there is something for everyone in the Aloha State.
Read the full story -
background and travel essentials
