By Lisa Jenkins
So, you're taking a trip to Hawaii. A Hawaiian vacation is one that can hardly be beat, which is why it's among the most popular vacation spots in the U.S. The mainstay of the Hawaiian economy is tourism and their business is booming. While you are there, here are some places that you simply must see.
The most commonly talked about island is the "Big Island," but there are five other islands that each offer something different for the traveler. Maui is one of those islands. It is the second largest of the Hawaiian Islands. For those who are tired of winter's chill, the temperature on this island hovers between seventy and eighty degrees.
Waterfalls are breathtaking and refreshing. To see one up close, visit Wailuku on the island of Maui. People can sample the soothing rivers in a place called Iao Valley. Visitors to this island also check out Lahaina and Kihei. The beaches offer a place to sunbath and watch the children play in the surf. For nightlife, there are quaint restaurants and nightclubs to dance the night away.
A good place to see the sun rise and set is Haleakala. It is known as the House of the Sun. The views are great but bring a sweater for the evening. The Seven Sacred Pools and Black Sand Beach are located in Hana. To fully enjoy the sights here, try to spend at least a couple of days exploring.
After Maui, head over to the island of Kauai. The tropical temperatures here have created a forest full of lust tropical vegetation. You'll feel like you are in South America or someplace in the Caribbean instead of a state in the Union. Films like Jurassic Park used the lush landscape to represent a dangerous tropical island populated with dinosaurs.
Kauai is the fourth largest Hawaiian Island. The leeward side of the island is so wet, that it has given rise to an ecosystem of tropical plants. According to records it is the oldest of all the islands of Hawaii. Families will enjoy the nature trip while hiking around the island. On the drier side of the island, visit Hawaii's version of the Grand Canyon called Waimea Canyon.
Oahu is home to Honolulu, the capital of Hawaii. The climate is warm, but pleasant. This island is steadily growing into a major metropolitan area. Visitors to Oahu can see Pearl Harbor, the site of the Japanese attack on December, 7, 1941.
Most people have heard of Waikiki beach even if they didn't exactly know on which island it was located. The city of Waikiki has lots of nightlife for young and old to enjoy. Hear a live local band perform while you eat your meal and sip a drink. The area is busy so if you want something a little less hectic, more on to other points of interest on the island.
Surfing fans can tryout their skills at Pipeline Beach on the North Shore. Surfing competitions are held here each winter and attract a lot of people and media coverage. The currents and the seas may be too rough for a novice swimmer. For the kids, visit another beach like Waimea Bay.
Now we come to the main attraction - the Big Island of Hawaii. This is the largest island of the Hawaiian Islands with a population of over 171,000 people. The temperature stays warm but bearable here. The Ironman Triathlon is held of the Big Island each year.
The island is alive with geological contradictions. There are mountains, beaches, tropical landscapes, and valleys. Waipio Valley is a good place to take picture of the island. The last sugar plantation is located in Honoka'a. Sugar cane used to be a cash crop for Hawaii.
The island also contains an active volcano. Kilauea is visited by thousands each year. It is an awesome sight to behold, but be careful since it still is an active volcano.
Lisa Jenkins is a freelance travel writer who helps people find discount travel and last-minute travel deals. She also specializes in Hawaii travel planning, from Maui and Oahu to The Big Island.
Jenkins is an editor for FrugalMonkey, a free website that includes a detailed online Hawaii golf and activities guide and tips for saving money.
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