By Laura Stuart
Hawaii, "The Aloha State," is geographically between the
United States and Japan in the Pacific Ocean. The state is made of eight large islands formed from tectonic movement and volcanic activity at sea. It became a state in August of 1959. It was the 50th state to be admitted to the United States of America.
The Hawaiian Islands are Hawaii, the big island; Maui, the valley island; Kaho'olawe, the target island; Lanai, the pineapple island; Molokai, the friendly island; Oahu, the gathering place; Kauai, the garden state and Ni'ihau, the forbidden island.
The state is a popular tourist destination because of it's crystal clear waters and white, sandy
beaches. Tourism is also a main facet of the Hawaiian economy, at 24 percent of the state's gross national profit.
Choosing what to visit while you are in Hawaii can be an awe inspiring task, but this article lists the top 10 places you should not leave the state without seeing.
Hawaiian Beaches
Lanikai beach, located at Mokulua Drive on the island of Kailua, is known for crystal-clear teal water and white, sandy beaches.
Hilo, located on the main island of Hawaii, is a picture-perfect ocean-side town. The town's economy is driven by local crafts, museums, a historic theater district and shops. Hilo shops contain traditional Hawaiian crafts and high-end designer clothes.
Molokai, the friendly island, is the haven of divers and snorkelers because of it's crystal-clear torquoise water and sugar-white sands. The water ranges in depth from 80 to 203 feet, which suits experienced and novelty snorkelers.
Waikiki Beach on the main island of Hawaii is a haven of scenery and romantic settings. The beach is set against a backdrop of waterfalls. When you step off the beach, you step into shopping ranging from traditional crafts to designer clothing.
National Parks and Volcanos
Hawaii Volcanos National Park is on the big island, and the park is among the top places visited on Hawaii. Hiking trails weave between two volcanos that hold records for their activities.
Kaho'olawe National Wildlife Refuge is the place to visit if you want to learn about the indigenous wildilfe of Hawaii. The refuge is a protected area on more than 200 acres of land on the north shore of Kaho'olawe.
Kokee National Park is home to a canyon that has been written about by celebrated writers including Mark Twain. Waimea Canyon, on the island of Hawaii, is more than 3,000 feet deep, one mile wide and more than 10 miles in length.
Haleakala, which is a dormant volcano, is another sight that should not be missed on the main Hawaiian island. And unless you have extremely poor vision, you will have a hard time not finding the volcano. It is also on the list of the biggest mountains in the world.
Gardens
Kauai, the garden island, is another sight that should not be missed. There are gardens all over the island, so it is not necessary to name a specific one. Wander the island and find your favorite among the lush flora and fauna.
Culture
Hawaii has a Polynesian heritage, and a visit to Hawaii is not complete without a visit to the Polynesian Cultural Center on the big island. A visit to the center helps tourists learn about the traditions and heritage of island inhabitants. The center is located at 55-370 Kamehameha Highway, Laie, Hawaii (HI) 96762.
About the Author:
Laura N. Stuart is a writer. She has served as a newspaper reporter, photographer, copy editor, feature reporter, editor, entertainment reporter and freelance writer for multiple community and regional publications. She holds a Bachelor of Mass Communications degree in journalism from Louisiana State University.
