Honolulu is the capital of the state of Hawaii.
The Hawaiian Islands are made up of eight major islands as well as several small islets and atolls. Together, they make up the state of Hawaii, the United States' newest state, having entered the Union in 1959. Of these eight islands, one (Kahoolawe) is uninhabited and another (Niihau) is privately owned and off-limits to visitors. The remaining six are the principal islands.
Oahu
Oahu is the most populated of the Hawaiian Islands and home to Honolulu, Hawaii's state capital. Visitors to Oahu can enjoy sunbathing on Waikiki's beaches, hiking Diamond Head volcanic crater, world-class surfing on the North Shore and the lively nightlife and dining scene of downtown Honolulu.
Hawaii (Big Island)
As the largest of the Hawaiian Islands, the island of Hawaii is also referred to as the "Big Island." This island is home to Kilauea, the world's most active volcano. Kilauea is located in Volcanoes National Park, which offers visitors the opportunity to walk through lava fields.
Maui
Maui's major attraction is its beaches, particularly those of Kaanapali in West Maui. Other attractions on this island include the restaurants and nightlife of the old whaling seaside town of Lahaina and Haleakala National Park, home to Maui's highest peak, which is 10,023-feet above sea level. Popular activities at Haleakala are horse-back riding and watching the sun rise.
Kauai
Kauai is also referred to as the "Garden Isle" due to its rugged terrain and rich greenery, particularly along the Napali Coast in the north of the island. Visitors reach the Napali Coast by hiking the 11-mile Kalalau Trail, but you can also reach it by boat tour or kayak. Kauai also features long stretches of beach, such as those of the North Shore.
Molokai
Molokai is one of Hawaii's most undeveloped islands. There are no traffic lights on the island. Molokai features secluded beaches and opportunities for hiking, for example, at the Halawa Valley. Visitors can also take a mule ride into Kalaupapa National Historic Park, a former leper colony surrounded by the highest sea cliffs in the world.
Lanai
For golfers, Lanai's main attractions are its two world-class golf courses and two Four Seasons resorts. Other attractions include North Lanai's Keahiakawelo, also known as Garden of the Gods, which features rock formations and towers created by centuries of erosion.
Tags: Hawaiian Islands, also referred, Honolulu Hawaii, Kauai also, Napali Coast, National Park, North Shore