Did you know that Hawaii has the most extreme contrast of any state in the United States? This is due to Hawaii’s close distance to the equator. This ultimately results in an atmosphere that is densely packed with moisture, which increases air humidity and amplifies the brightness of colorations in the atmosphere.
Hawaii
The island chain of Hawaii is 2,212.64 kilometers or 20 degrees north of the equator. The largest urban area in the State and its capital is Honolulu. It is the only US State outside of North America.
The inhabitants believe that Hawaii got its name from a local mythology. Locals claim Hawaiiloa, a fisherman, was the first person to discover the island. However, in present-day society, the term “Hawaii” refers to the state’s largest island, which is also named Hawaii. The Proto-Polynesian term Hawaii means “Place of the Gods.”
Hawaii has a total land area of 16,638 square kilometers, although water makes up around 41.2% of its surface. Mauna Kea, the highest peak in this tropical haven of leisure, rises 4,205 meters above sea level. Hawaii has 137 high or volcanic islands, and it is situated right on the Pacific Ocean’s floor. It also has eight major islands: Niihau, Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe, Maui, and Hawai’i (Island), which are located in that order from northwest to southeast. But only six of these eight main islands are accessible to residents and visitors.
Particularly because of its fertile environment and tropical temperature, this region is home to numerous crop plantations. This State is renowned for supplying crops and agricultural goods, making Hawaii the third-richest state in the US.
Tropical Paradise
Since it lies on the Tropic of Cancer and Tropic of Capricorn, Hawaii receives direct rays from the sun. But despite being in the Northern Hemisphere, Hawaii does not become uncomfortably too hot in the summer. The temperature here is regulated by the enormous portion of the ocean that surrounds the island; another element is the so-called trade winds, which can provide a breeze of up to 25 kilometers per hour. Hawaii’s coastal regions experience pleasant, sunny weather all year round.
Hawaii has become known as one of the top tourist destinations in the globe due to the beauty of its islands. Amazing beaches, stunning sunsets, magical waterfalls, delectable food fresh from the ocean and its jungle, deep rainforests, and diverse species of flora and animals may all be found here.
Sun-Filled Hawaii Activities
In Hawaii, there are a wide range of outdoor recreational opportunities that can be thoroughly enjoyed consisting of tours and excursions into the mountains, the sea, wildlife preserves and cultural attractions.
Off Shore Activities
- Snorkeling and Diving- Visit some of Hawaii’s marine protected areas to see a diversity of marine life. Maui, Kailua-Kona, the Island of Hawaii, the Big Island, Molokai, and Kauai are just a handful of the Hawaiian Islands where snorkeling is popular. Summer is the best time to go snorkeling because the water is calm, warm, and clear.
- Whale Watching- If you enjoy whale watching, it is best to travel around the months of March through November because this is when you may observe the whales traveling south. However, whale sightings are possible throughout the year in Hawaii. The Au Au Channel, Molokai, Lanai, Oahu, Kauai, and the Big Island are a few of the well-known places to go whale watching.
- Beach Hopping- Hawaii is renowned for its clear waters and its white, black, and red beaches. Beach hopping is popular among tourists in places like Waikiki Beach, Waialei Beach, Kailua Beach, Kahaluu Beach Park, Mahaiula Beach, and Mauna Kea Beach.
- Surfing- This is where the sport of surfing was discovered due to the clarity of the sea and the power of the waves. Maui, Kauai, Honolulu, and Haleiwa are a few of the Hawaii surfing hotspots you may visit.
- Paddle Boarding- Honolua Bay, Kaanapali Beach, Makena Beach State Park, Kukio Beach, Naples Beach, and Lanikai Beach are some of the most well-known locations for paddle boarding.
- Sunset Cruises- Through Sunset Cruises, see several of Hawaii’s shores. While on board, take advantage of the good scenery, music, delicious cuisine, and booze.
Inland Activities
- Trekking- Trekking will let you become one with nature. Hawaii has many places that are well-known for trekking, including Kauai, Maui, the Napali Coast State Wilderness Park, Waimea Canyon State Park, Haleakala National Park, and others.
- Golfing- There are golf courses in various locations around Hawaii since the state takes pride in its incredibly verdant surroundings. Honolulu, Kapolei, Mauna Lani, Mauna Kea, and Oahu are a few places where you can find some of these.
- Cultural Attractions, Stage Shows and Festivities– Don’t miss the amazing and vibrant performances and shows demonstrating the various Hawaiian customs and culture. The acts that can be witnessed include hula shows, fire dancing, live drumming, traditional dances, and more.
- Ziplining- Hawaii takes great pride in its zipline activities. Here, you may observe Hawaii’s lush vegetation. Base camps for the zipline can be found in Lahaina, Wailuku, Haiku, Koloa, and other places.
- Horseback Riding- Horseback riding is available to tourists in Hawaii at a number of stables, ranches, and polo clubs. Experience the valleys and plains of Hawaii like a cowboy in Hakalau, Waialua, Kahuku, and other locations.
- Camping- Camping can be done at several large campsites and campgrounds. These include Kaneohe, Kahuku, Hauula, and Malaekahana. Beautiful mountains, botanical gardens, and a beach front may all be found here.
- Strolling Local Markets and Farms- Don’t forget to stop by one of Hawaii’s many local markets. Locally grown crops, vegetables, seasonal fruits, souvenirs, fresh marine goods, and other items are offered.
Air Activities
- Helicopter Tours- Check out the best helicopter rides in Hawaii. This includes a quick tour to Hawaii’s main islands, reserves, parks, and other attractions. People who wish to see the splendor of Hawaii in one shot prefer helicopter tours.
- Paragliding- Paragliding allows you to fly up to 1000 feet above the ground! Base camps for paragliding may be found in Maui, Oahu, and Honolulu.
- Sky Diving- Experience the 120 kilometer per hour drop from the sky through sky diving! The thrills and excitement will start on its base camps at Waialua, Hawaii, Maui, and at Hanapepe.
How to Stay Protected from the Sun?
Because most of your excursions and discoveries in Hawaii will take place outside, it’s always a good idea to be prepared. Remember that Hawaii is near to the equator, thus the sun is directly above your head. In layman’s terms, you will catch the direct heat and rays of the sun exposing you to an excessive amount of UV rays. A lot of this will cause your skin to burn. Tan and burn are not the same thing. A healthy tan is appealing, but burnt skin is not only unattractive but also unhealthy. Make sure to bring the following:
- Sunscreen
- Wide Brimmed Hat
- Quick-Dry and Breathable Long Sleeved Sweat Shirt
- Beach Umbrella
- Poncho or cover ups
Conclusion
Hawaii offers a wide variety of activities. Despite being in the northern hemisphere and exposed to the sun’s direct rays, Hawaii’s position is advantageous due to the abundance of stunning coastlines around. Just be ready for spending time in the sun if you decide to visit Hawaii.
