Hawaii aptly named Big Island is fantastically diverse, with miles of highways and byways to explore. From age-old fishing villages to modern mega resorts, from snow-capped peaks to sandy beaches, you'll experience tropical splendor backed by an epic history.
PLACES TO VISIT
1.HAWAI’I VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK
The glow of a lava lake, secluded palm-fringed beaches, ancient petroglyphs pecked into hardened lava, and miles of hiking trails through smoking craters, rainforest and desert, the park is a experience not to miss
2.WAIMEA ARBORETUM AND BOTANIAL GARDEN
Most famous in the world for its exotic collection of flora, it features 36 major botanical collections, all collected in a valley ranges in elevation from sea level to 1,000 feet. Once a month you can enjoy the Moon Walk tour and witness rare Hawaiian flowers blooming under the beautiful moonlight.
3. PH’UHONUA O HONAUNAU NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK
Also know as the Place of Refuge it is dotted with ancient temples and hangouts watched by menacing teeth-baring idols - it makes a memorable introduction to traditional Hawaiian culture. While sea turtles bobbing in the bay you can see the underwater wonders when snorkeling nearby Two Step.
4.PEARL HARBOR AND USS ARIZONA MEMORIAL
Standing above the remains of the sunken ship this is a memorial to those who perished with sinking the USS Arizona. Some portions can be seen protruding up from the water. A ferry shuttles visitors out to the actual memorial. Historical information on the harbor and the Japanese attack is provided by the Visitors Center. The Battleship USS Missouri is also docked here and visitors can walk the ship's deck.
5.MAUI OCEAN CENTRE
Visitors can see close up what lies beneath the ocean's surface. Sharks, rays, turtles and all kinds of interesting sea life are presented in huge aquariums. A walk through glass tunnel is a favorite feature at the facility.
6.POLYNESIAN CULTURAL CENTER
Through music, dance, craft demonstrations, and games, the center portrays the culture and daily life of the Polynesian islanders in Hawaii. Visitors can tour the facility during the day or see a show in the evening.
7.THE LYMAN MUSEUM
The Museum offers a stories of the island of Hawaii and its culture. Next to the museum in the family home you will find the stories of Hawaii’s education. In both the building you can see the old Mission House and life as it was 150 years ago, as well as state-of-the-art exhibits on many aspects of Hawaiian natural history and culture.
8. PACIFIC TSUMANI MUSEUM
The museum serves as a living memorial to those who lost their lives in past tsunami events. Historical information, survivor stories, and photos are on exhibit. Tsunami education are also promoted by the museum.
OTHER PLACES TO SEE
- Diamond Head State Monument Trails
- Mauna Kea
- Waipi’s Valley
- Hapuna Beach
- Akaka Falls State Park
- Haleakala National Park
- Hana Road
- Manoa Waterfall
- Honolulu Harbour
- Kahanu Garden
- Puako Petroglyph Archaelogical Preserve
- Komokila Hawaiin Village
- Kukaniloko Birthing Stones
- Garden of the Gods
- Valley of the Temples
- Queen Emma Summer Palace
- Old Lahaina Courthouse
- Shangri La
- Battleship Missouri Memorial
- Bishop Museum
- Fort DeRussy Military Reservation
- Royal Mausoleum of Hawaii
- Honolulu Zoo
Moped and motorcycle rental, car, taxi, shuttle, bus and ferries is the best way to get around Hawaii.
Hawaii has warm weather all year round. Winter months tend to be rainier, while hurricane season goes from June through November. The most consistently good weather is usually found in April, May, September, and October.
