Golf
All of the main tourist islands of Hawaii offer a choice of golf courses to suit all abilities and budgets. From the most luxurious resorts with exquisitely landscaped links to championship courses to municipal gems, one thing Hawaiian golf courses invariably have in common is spectacular scenic surroundings. In Hawaii you can play golf on the slopes of an active volcano, aim shots over crashing waves onto island greens and meander through waterfall-filled rainforests to your next shot.
Surf
Experienced avid surfers and novices alike are invited to ride the waves in Hawaii. Because the waves behave differently at different spots on all the islands, it is a good idea for surfers of any ability to research surf spots and seek out local advice. Oahu's North Shore is famous for its big waves (up to 30 feet at times) and premier surfing competitions but should only be tackled by those with lots of experience and skill. Lessons are a good idea for beginners, and are available along with equipment rentals at most popular beaches.
Scuba or Snorkel
The Pacific waters around the Hawaiian islands are a diving and snorkeling paradise. Those new to scuba diving can take a lesson or obtain PADI certification through many different professional dive companies on all the islands. Snorkeling equipment is widely available for rental or purchase for coastal exploration, but for the most abundant marine life and expert local knowledge, take an organized boat excursion. On any underwater adventure you will see schools of brightly colored tropical fish and may catch a glimpse of sea turtles or dolphins.
Pearl Harbor
Pearl Harbor on Oahu is the site of one of the most important events in world history. A visit to the memorials and monuments at the site will teach you about the sacrifices made by servicemen and women and the significance of the Pearl Harbor attacks to the progression and eventual end of World War II.
www.nps.gov/usar
Mount Kilauea
You don't need to be a volcano enthusiast to be awed by the sight of molten lava pouring into the ocean from Mount Kilaueau, part of Volcanoes National Park on Hawaii's Big Island. A drive along the Chain of Craters Road ends where lava flow has swept over the road. In the distance you will see a beacon of steam rising from the red glow of liquid rock where the volcano meets the coast--a truly unforgettable sight.
www.nps.gov/havo
Polynesian Cultural Center
The Polynesian Cultural Center on Oahu offers a glimpse into the traditions and cultures of the people of the South Pacific. Hawaii, Samoa, Fiji, Tahiti, the Marquesas, Tonga and the Maori people of New Zealand (Aotearoa) are represented by recreated villages where you can see demonstrations of traditional art, dance and activities. A canoe pageant and authentic luau are part of the experience, too.
Polynesian Cultural Center
55-370 Kamehameha Highway
Laie, Hawaii 96762
(800) 367-7060
www.polynesia.com
The Road to Hana
A drive along the Hana Highway is one of the most popular day trips on Maui. The journey itself is the biggest attraction and should be taken slowly and with many stops. This is not only because of the tight twists and turns of the road, but to stop and take in the lush tropical scenery, panoramic ocean vistas, waterfalls and pools along the way.
Zipline Tour
For those seeking a combination of a thrill ride and spectacular natural scenery, consider a zipline adventure. These tours take you into the Hawaiian back country where you are harnessed to a series of high-speed ziplines for an unforgettable journey through the treetops, over streams and down mountainsides.
Luau
To get a taste of traditional Hawaii, you will definitely want to experience a luau. These celebratory feasts are offered by hotels and restaurants and serve authentic Hawaiian fare like Kalua pig, poke and lomi lomi salmon. They often provide entertainment too, such as live music and hula dancing performances.
Haleakala
Haleakala means "house of the sun" in Hawaiian and many visitors to Maui take an early morning trip to the top of Maui's highest peak to see a breathtaking sunrise. No matter what time of day you visit Haleakala, and whether you drive, hike or take a bike trip from the summit back to sea level, the various landscapes of the peak, the crater, the cloud forest and barren desert will be unforgettable.
www.nps.gov/hale
About The Author
Joanne Lewis is a freelance writer who has written for newspapers since 2005. She is currently the editor of a weekly community newspaper in Los Angeles, Calif. Lewis holds a Bachelor of Science in politics from the University of Bristol, England.
