Travel the USA (Visit Hawaii)

It is the unique goal of many travel adventurers to visit all 50 states in America. To boost this objective, each week, we shall explore one state. Alphabetically, the eleventh state to visit is none other than Hawaii, abbreviated HI. Regardless of the order in which you visit them, Hawaii, the Aloha State is truly memorable.  

Visit state # 11 – Hawaii

The 11^th  U.S. state alphabetically is Hawaii,  aptly known as Paradise for its tropical environment and stunning beauty. Hawaii became the 50^th state on August 21, 1959, the last to join the U.S. Hawaii is made up of eight major islands, some atolls, and numerous smaller islets. The eight largest islands include Kahoolawe, Niihau, Lanai, Molokai, Kauai, Oahu, Maui, and Hawaii, which is known as the “Big Island.” It is the only U.S. state located in Oceania in the Pacific Islands and sits about 2,100 miles southwest of the United States mainland. Hawaii is roughly 2,390 miles from California and 2,850 miles from Japan. The state is the 8^th smallest and the 13^th most densely populated.

Hawaii is known as a beloved popular tourist destination for folks who seek relaxation in a pleasurable climate. Per weather.gov, “The outstanding features of Hawaii’s climate include mild temperatures throughout the year, moderate humidity, persistence of northeasterly trade winds, significant differences in rainfall within short distances, and infrequent severe storms.” They explain that for most of Hawaii, there are only two seasons, “summer” which lasts from May to October, and “winter” which goes from October to April. Hawaii’s capital, Honolulu, is located on the southern side of the island of Oahu, and the daytime temperatures range from 81 to 89 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer season. Honolulu is among the warmest places in Hawaii because it is on the leeward side, where trade winds create a slight downslope.

There is much to do in Hawaii, and each island possesses its own charm and identity. The smallest island, Kahoolawe, is not as well known as the others. It is only 11 miles long and 9.7 miles wide and has very few inhabitants. Niihau is 17-miles from Kauai and has been privately owned by the Sinclair family since 1864. A small tribe of villagers inhabit part of the island and live traditionally. Lanai has white sand beaches, beautiful cliffs and rocks, and an inactive volcano. Most of the state is owned by Oracle founder Larry Ellison, but 2% belongs to the state. This island has a reputation as an island paradise. Molokai is Hawaii’s fifth-largest island and gains much of its income from agriculture. Kauai, nicknamed the Garden Isle, is extremely lush. The areas which have the most rainfall create dense, rich jungles. The island also boasts scenic waterfalls and seaside cliffs. Much of the island is undeveloped; thus, it is quite unique from the tourist areas found on the largest three islands, Oahu, Maui, and Hawaii.

Two-thirds of Hawaii’s residents live on Oahu, an island formed by two volcanic areas and known for its beautiful beaches, mountains, and rainforests. Oahu is also known for Diamond Head, a volcanic tuff and one of the best hikes in Hawaii, offering stunning views from atop. A trip to the island of Oahu should include a visit to Pearl Harbor National Memorial, a unit of the U.S. National Park Service, to learn about the most pivotal moments in United States history, the attack on Pearl Harbor that stirred U.S. entry into World War II. Best for relaxation is Maui, boasting a dramatic coastline, tropical beaches, a plethora of wonderful resorts, and picture-perfect palm trees, making it an ideal place for tourists. Among the amazing sights to visit is Haleakalā National Park, where sunrise bike tours can be enjoyed. From the top of the park, soak up the stunning views while standing upon a unique volcanic landscape high above the clouds. It’s a rugged ride up to the top but well worth it once you get there. The Big Island of Hawaii is well known for its beaches and for Mauna Kea, the world’s tallest mountain when measuring up from the seafloor base. No matter which islands you choose to visit, each one is amazing.

Next up: Idaho