By Isabel Prontes
Hawaii, located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the planet. With its pleasant, warm climate, scenic
beaches and countless recreational activity opportunities, it's no surprise that millions of visitors flock to the islands of Hawaii for relaxing
vacations every single year.
Snorkeling
Snorkeling is an extremely popular water activity in Hawaii. This is due to the fact that snorkeling is one of the best ways to explore the majestic abundance of aquatic life in Hawaii's crystal clear waters. Snorkeling is popular on all of the Hawaiian islands, but particularly on the main island of Hawaii; it hosts some of the most diverse underwater creatures around (like the rare Hawaiian sea turtle, an endangered species).
Scuba Diving
Scuba diving is another very popular recreational activity in Hawaii. This is due to the fact that the Hawaiian waters are pleasant and warm all year long. Hawaii's diving sites are all different--from scuba diving around shipwrecks and grottoes to lava formations. Lanai is a particularly good site if you are interested in scuba diving around lava formations with vast arrays of marine life. The lava formations can be anything--such as ridges, archways, pinnacles, and tunnels.
Kayaking
Kayaking is also popular in Hawaii, particularly on the coast of Kauai (the north shore's Na Pali coast and Hanauma Bay). Kauai is believed by many to have the only rivers that are good for kayak navigation. However, kayaking is common in Oahu as well. There are a lot of different types of places in which to go kayaking in Hawaii. Calm valley rivers and even more aggressive ocean waters are good for the sport. Kayaking be done alone or with the cooperation of a partner.
Surfing
Hawaii is often considered to be the home of surfing, one of the island's most beloved recreational activities. This is due to the fact that surfing has some origins in Polynesian culture. One of the best places in Hawaii to go surfing is at Maui's north shore (on Hookipa beach). This beach is the home of some of the optimal conditions for windsurfing. Another good place to go surfing in Hawaii is the hopping and vital Waikiki Beach, located in Honolulu.
Parasailing
Parasailing is a fun recreational activity that is done in Hawaii, and it's one of the rare ones done out of the water. Hawaiian has clear skies and clean air, and parasailing through the natural beauty of the islands provides an adrenaline rush and a feeling of true invigoration and revitalization. You'll be sailing hundreds of feet above the clear waters of the Pacific Ocean. At the same time, you'll be securely harnessed to a reliable parachute while being pulled by a speedboat. It is one of the best thrills on the island.
About the Author:
Isabel Prontes is a freelance writer and traveler residing in Manhattan, NY. She has traveled to five continents and counting. Her work has appeared on a number of websites, such as Travels, eHow.com and "Happy Living Magazine." Prontes has a professional background in public relations; she received a bachelor's degree in communication studies from Pace University.
