Hawaii offers countless activities for visitors.
Hawaii became the 50th American state in 1959, and its islands have been popular tourist destinations for decades. Though outsiders may think all the Hawaiian islands are alike, they are quite a bit different in terms of their physical features and the activities available. The best Hawaiian islands offer visitors a chance to hike on volcanic mountains, observe whales and dolphins, visit World War II memorials, and enjoy relaxing scenic drives along the ocean.
Maui
Maui has long been a paradise for vacationers. In 2009, Maui was named "Best Island in the World" by the readers of Conde Nast Traveler, marking Maui's 15th win in the 22-year history of the poll. Maui is a great spot for humpback whale watching, both from shore and by boat, as more than 3,500 of the creatures pass by the island from December to May. Another popular activity on Maui is watching the sunrise over Haleakala, the world's largest dormant volcano. Haleakala Park is open 24 hours a day, making it an ideal location for star watching at night under clear skies.
Kauai
The island of Kauai has Hawaii's only navigable rivers, making kayaking or canoeing down the Wailua River a popular activity. The 3,000-foot deep Waimea Canyon is called "The Grand Canyon of the Pacific." The northern Napali Coast contains spectacular towering cliffs and waterfalls, but you'll have to work to get there by hiking along an 11-mile trail. Kauai isn't just about outdoor activities. The Children's Discovery Museum in the city of Kapaa provides kids with opportunities to learn about Hawaii, and participate in hands-on activities like painting and making crafts.
Hawaii
To avoid confusion with the name of the state itself, the island of Hawaii is often referred to as "The Big Island." This is the largest of the Hawaiian islands, and it contains some of the state's most impressive natural features. In the winter, you can find snow at the top of the dormant volcano Mauna Kea, which sits at nearly 14,000 feet high and more than 33,000 feet tall from the bottom of the ocean floor. Skiing is even permitted, though not recommended. The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is home to Kileaua Volcano, the world's most active volcano. Sometimes, tourists are able to view active lava flows within the park.
Oahu
Oahu is the easiest part of Hawaii to visit, as the majority of flights to the state land on the island at Honolulu International Airport. Surfing is a popular pastime at the famous Waikiki Beach on the southern part of Oahu. Sea Life Park offers tourists a chance to swim with rays and dolphins. Many visitors come to Hawaii to see Pearl Harbor, the location of the 1941 bombing that prompted the United States to join World War II. Visitors can learn about the event and the history of the war at the harbor's three memorials and two museums.
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