Travel
Hawaii for Beginners. Which Island to Visit?
If you ask a group of people where their dream holiday location would be, I'd put my money on the Hawaiian Islands ranking near the top. With stunningly vivid turquoise seas, cloudless azure skies, and glowing white sands backed by palm trees, it has long been a staple of escapist fantasy and computer desktop backgrounds alike.
So, which one should you visit? All have their many charms, and frankly, there is never enough time to do them any justice. But let's go over the highlights of each island to help you make up your mind.
The Big Island
No beginners guide to Hawaiian Islands would be complete without Hawai'i, the biggest island in the archipelago. There is more to Hawai'i than its beaches. But I can't resist, so let's start with its beaches. Carlsmith Beach is located next door to James Kealoha Beach Park, and with its sheltered white sand lagoon, its calmer waters are ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Neither beach has a sandy shore, but what it lacks in dry sand, it makes up for in crystal clear waters and swimming turtles. When you are fed up with beaches, try Akaka Falls State Park, with its majestic waterfall running into a dramatic and deep gorge.
Maui
The second largest island in the archipelago, its year round warm temperatures and scenic landscape make it a popular destination. It's particularly renowned for whale migration. Humpback whales regularly frequent the Auau Channel during their oceanic travels. Whilst you can take paid boat rides, one of the best beaches to see them from is Kaanapali Beach. It's also free.
Oahu
More recently famous for being the backdrop of Lost, Oahu's North Shore was known before the TV series for being a haven for surfers. The exposed and rugged coastline ensure towering waves that bring in top class surfers from around the world. There are numerous surfing events and contests throughout the year to watch. This area can be quite rugged so it's advisable to take out Direct Travel Insurance if you visit this area.
Kauai
Whilst there is not much about Kauai that isn't awe inspiring, Waimea Canyon has to top the list. 16km long and 900m deep, hiking Waimea Canyon is an exhilarating experience.
Molokai
Tourism is not as prevalent here as it is on the larger islands. As such, it remains relatively unspoilt with much pristine tropical landscape. This is exemplified in Nā Pali Coast State Park. It's perfect for those looking to get away from it all. The only access into Nā Pali Coast State Park is by hiking, boat or helicopter.
Lanai
Lanai is possibly more inaccessible than Molokai, attracting those who avoid tourist hotspots. There are only a couple of hotels on the island, very few shops, and you will definitely need a four wheel drive. Polihua Beach is secluded, idyllic and an absolute must. For the above reasons, so is travel insurance.
Niʻihau and Kahoolawe
Niʻihau is privately owned with limited tourism, only offering half day helicopter rides around the island. The only way to get to Kahoolawe is to add yourself to the Volunteer Reserve Commission and endure a 2 year waiting list. Once there, hard (and sometimes dangerous) physical labour is involved.
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