COUNTRY INFORMATION
Hawaii
Hawaii is located on the northeastern edge of Polynesia and almost in the center of the North Pacific ocean. Once Hawaii served as the main center of whaling, growing sugar cane and pineapples, now economically dependent on tourism and American military bases. The beauty of nature continues to be one of the main assets of Hawaii. Warm tropical climate, long coastline, lush tropical forests, waterfalls, flowing through the canyons of turbulent rivers and active volcanoes have turned the island into a popular destination for tourists, surfers, biologists and volcanologists. And, of course, the beaches - gold, red, black and even green, caressed by the endless surf.Honolulu is the state capital, the largest city and cultural center.
The population of Hawaii is over 1 million 300 thousand people plus American soldiers and millions of tourists from all over the world. Hawaiian and English are the official languages in Hawaii.
At a distance of approximately 3,200 km southwest of mainland North America, Hawaii is the southernmost and second westernmost state of the United States (after Alaska). Only Hawaii and Alaska have no borders with another us state.
Hawaii is the only us state not geographically located in North America, growing coffee, completely surrounded by water, completely archipelago, has a Royal Palace, and has no direct line in its state border.
The highest mountain in Hawaii, Mauna Kea (4,205 m), is higher than mount Everest, given the foot of the mountain, which, lying on the bottom of the Pacific ocean, rises to a height of 10,200 m.
Hawaii is the last 50 States joined to the United States on August 21, 1959, and the only one consisting entirely of Islands.
The length of the coast of Hawaii is about 1210 km - the fourth place in the United States after Alaska, Florida and California.
Geographically and ethnographically, the Hawaiian archipelago is part of Polynesian Oceania.
The Hawaiian archipelago includes hundreds, mostly tiny Islands, located above the" hot spot " of the Pacific ocean. In the South-Eastern part of the archipelago are the following eight main Islands (from North-West to South-East): Niihau, Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Kaho'olawe, Maui, and Hawaii Island. Of these eight Islands, six are open to tourism. Each of the six main Islands is unique.
THE HISTORY OF HAWAII
The history of Hawaii can be traced back to a sequence of dominant industries: sandalwood, whaling, sugar cane and pineapple cultivation, military bases, tourism and education. Since gaining state status in 1959, tourism has been the largest sector of the economy, accounting for 24.3% of the gross product of Hawaii.
The island of Hawaii is almost always called the Big island in order to avoid confusion. It is the largest of the Hawaiian Islands (62% of the area of the Hawaiian archipelago). Here is the most active volcano in the world (Kilauea); the most massive mountain in the world (Mauna Loa); the highest mountain in the world, above Everest, if measured from the bottom of the sea to the top (Mauna Kea); the largest Park of the state (national Park Hawaiian volcanoes); the southernmost point of the United States (South Point). In addition to volcanoes, the Large island is notable for the beautiful Waipio valley, coffee plantations, macadamia nuts, there are one of the two existing beaches in the world with green sand.
Oahu is the most densely populated and economically developed island. On the South coast is the city of Honolulu, the state capital and largest city of Hawaii, the financial and commercial center, and Waikiki beach, perhaps the most famous tourist attraction in Hawaii. The Central valley of the island is famous for its pineapple plantations. In winter, the big waves on the North coast turn Oahu into the world capital of surfing. The Arizona battleship memorial in pearl Harbor is one of the most popular attractions in Hawaii
Maui is the second largest island of the Hawaiian archipelago, here is a volcanic crater Haleakala height of 3055 meters, resort areas of Lahaina (Lahaina), Kaanapali (Kaanapali) and Kapalua (Kapalua). On the East side there is a tiny village of Hana, the path to it passes through one of the most beautiful roads in the world, with many turns, waterfalls and a beautiful panorama of the East coast. Windsurfing is an extremely popular sport on Maui. In addition, the island is known for its beaches, waterfalls, whale watching, romantic sunsets and a variety of leisure activities - from Golf to scuba diving.
• Kauai (Kauai), "Island gardens", there are the natural wonders of Hawaii - river, Wailua (Wailua River), Waimea Canyon (Waimea Canyon), and the coast On-Pali (Na Pali Coast). Mount Waialeale is known as one of the rainiest places in the world
* Molokai is one of the two places in the United States where Roman Catholic saints lived (and the only place in the United States where both righteous stayed at the same time). In addition, Molokai is known for the highest coastal cliffs in the world, the longest reefs in the United States, and one of the largest sandy beaches in Hawaii.However, it is the least developed of all the Hawaiian Islands. In the hidden from the bustle of the outside world island there are no resorts, traffic lights and even buildings above the coconut palm. * Lanai (Lanai). This island was once home to the largest pineapple plantation in the world and now houses several exclusive resorts.
* Niihau (Niihau) means 'Forbidden island'. Tourists are not allowed to visit this private island, which operates a cattle ranch and sheep, and there is a single village Puuwai with a population of about 200 inhabitants. On the outside, life at Niihau hasn't changed much over the last century and a half – until today, there's no running water, sewage, and electricity. Residents continue to speak Hawaiian; men work at ranches, fishing and hunting; women specialize in collecting tiny white Pupu Niihau shells (found only on this island) for the production of Leia, the cost of which is estimated at thousands of dollars. The rest of the island is limited to helicopter tours.
* Kahoolawe (Kahoolawe), once a former us Navy training ground, continues to be uninhabited.
THE BEST NATURAL ATTRACTIONS
Volcanoes. The whole chain of Islands consists of volcanoes; do not miss the opportunity to see at least one. Hike to the top of the world-famous diamond head on Oahu island. At the other end of the spectrum is the fire-breathing Kilauea in the Hawaiian volcanoes National Park (big island of Hawaii) where you can see a close-up of red-hot lava. Maui island is famous for the beauty of the inactive crater of Haleakala volcano.
Waterfalls are one of the most beautiful natural attractions of Hawaii. If you're on a Big island, see Rainbow Falls, or the impressive Akaka Falls near Hilo. On the island of Maui, the scenic road to Khan (Hana) passes by many beautiful waterfalls. At the end of the road you will see a beautiful place Oheo Gulch (often called The seven Sacred ponds). The North shore and the Wailua area on Kauai has many waterfalls. Special beauty differs a 25-metre waterfall, Wailua.
Garden of the Gods (Lanai): on the North coast of Lanai there is a stone Garden of gods: open to all winds a deserted, but very beautiful place, with rocks of unusual shape protruding directly from the ground. Scientists call such a landscape "bedland", that is, highly crossed barren eroded area. The ancient Hawaiians consider the Garden of the gods to be a supernatural phenomenon. Barren land or mystical garden? Rent a car, visit the garden of the gods and make your own conclusion.
Waimea Canyon (Kauai). Known for its reddish lava flows, the gorge resembles the Grand Canyon in Arizona. Its counterpart in Kauai is constantly changing color, but it's much smaller than Arizona canyon - only a mile wide, 16 km long and just over 900 meters deep. The canyon (as well as the nearby Alakai Wilderness Preserve) has 72 km of Hiking trails. From the observation platforms you can see the magnificent scenery of the canyon. Stop along the side of the road and spend a few minutes admiring this wonder of nature, go Hiking or have a look at it by helicopter.
The coast of Na Pali is indicated on each tourist map of Kauai. It is one of the most spectacular sights of Hawaii, the most unique natural corner of our planet. Shown in Jurassic Park And other Hollywood movies, the coast is a steep "grooved" rocks, down to the pristine beaches. The beaches can only be reached by inflatable rubber boat, yacht, catamaran or view them from a helicopter. Serious hikers can venture to cross the ancient trail stretching 18 kilometers to the beach Kalalau (Kalalau Beach).
Coast Fell. The Pali coast in the North of Molokai (not to be confused with the coast of Na Pali on the island of Kauai) is another of Hawaii's most impressive natural wonders. Molokai Pali are considered the highest coastal rocks in the world (up to 1200 m high). From Halawa Bay to the coast of Pali, tour operators offer kayaking. To explore these cliffs from the air, book helicopter tours from nearby Maui. If you can not see the most beautiful coast of Hawaii (not many tourists see it Molokai), do not miss the opportunity to look at it from the observation deck Kalaupapa Lookout. You will not see a stunningly beautiful panorama of the rocks anywhere else in the world.
Best beach
All beaches in Hawaii, even in front of hotels and resorts, are municipal property of the state and are open to everyone. Hawaii state law requires that all resorts and hotels provide access and access to the beach, along with public Parking. If the beach is adjacent to the hotel, its staff has no right to prevent everyone to enjoy the water and rest. Moreover, if not the hotel customers want to rent equipment for water sports, buy a drink or eat a sandwich - money is money - the staff will be happy to provide all this. However, you will not be allowed to use the sun loungers reserved for the hotel's customers. Nudists on Hawaiian beaches have nothing to do - nudity in public places is prohibited by state laws.
Lanikai Beach (Oahu). In the morning, photography enthusiasts try to capture the famous sunrise on one of the most beautiful beaches in Hawaii. Calm waves, white sand, beautiful view in all directions. There are no toilets, showers, even Parking for cars, but a beautiful beach with white sand, calm turquoise water fully compensates for these shortcomings. Two tiny sea Islands in the background of the surrounding mountains complement the beauty of the picture.
Hapuna Beach (Big island). In the shape of a Crescent and almost a kilometer long, this beach is regularly featured in many tourist publications as the most beautiful beach in Hawaii, and many even consider it one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. One look and you will understand why: soft sand cream color goes into the crystal-clear waters of the ocean. Big waves in winter attract surfers, camping conditions-one of the best in Hawaii.
Kapalua Beach (Maui). Among the large number of magnificent beaches on the island of Maui, most stands out Kapalua Beach. This beach can serve as a dream: the Golden Crescent of sand is bounded on both sides by lava capes, the sandy bottom smoothly goes into the ocean, the water is perfectly clear. The small beach is protected from strong waves and streams VUM elongated lava capes, ideal for swimmers of all ages, including children. Near lava capes many swim with a mask and a tube, you can see sea turtles.increase photo
Hanauma Bay (Hanauma Bay). Just 16 km from Waikiki, Hanauma Bay is one of the best places for Snorkelling on the island of Oahu. A small beach surrounded by palm trees is located in the crater of an extinct volcano, on one side of the destroyed ocean. The sheltered Bay provides protection from strong currents and large waves - ideal conditions for swimmers and divers. Today, this beach receives an average of 3,000 visitors a day, or about a million a year.increase photo
Haena Beach (Kauai). This curved beach on the North coast of the island served as the location for many Hollywood movies. Grainy Golden sand and clear turquoise waters caused the love of Hollywood to Haena Beach. The summer months are quietly rolling calm for swimming and Snorkelling waves; winter pleases its mighty waves of surfers. Near the beach is located Maniniholo dry cave-a huge cave, stretching for several hundred meters into the depths of the rock.
Unusual beaches
Red Sand beach. It is one of the few red sandy beaches in the world. The rich red color of the sand contrasts with the dark blue water and the green of the growing trees. The beach is carved from the side of the loose tuff cone; it is constantly eroded, increasing the size of the beach. The cone is rich in iron, so the sand has a rich red color. The red sandy beach is extremely isolated and difficult to access. Quite steep, narrow and slippery because of the loose and crumbling slag trail to the beach runs along a high ridge along the ocean. Because of its remoteness and inaccessibility, the beach is little visited by tourists.
Volcanic lava near the shore forms a natural reservoir, providing some protection from the huge ocean waves. You can see the locals jumping from these lava stones into the ocean. Don't follow their example. Waves and reverse undercurrents are too dangerous in this place.
Papakōlea Beach is about 5 km East of Ka Lae, the southernmost point of Hawaii and the United States. It is surrounded by pastures and is only accessible on foot or by SUV. To get to the water, you need to go down the tuff cone. The beach is also called Green Sand Beach (Green sandy beach) or Mahana Beach (Mahana beach). This is one of the two existing green sandy beaches in the world, the other is located on the Galapagos Islands. It gets its distinctive green color from olivine-a mineral located in the adjacent tuff cone.
WHEN TO GO TO HAWAII
Most visitors don't come to Hawaii when the weather is the best, but rather when it's cold in their home country. The tourist season is when prices go up and resorts are often booked 100% from mid - December to late March or early April. The last 2 weeks of December is the peak season of travel to Hawaii. If you plan a trip at this time, book a room in advance, expect a large influx of tourists, be prepared to pay dearly for everything: hotel, car rental, air tickets, tours.
Spring (from mid - April to mid-June) and autumn (September to mid-December) are off-season. At this time, prices are creeping down, vacationers on the Islands and a little, although this is the best season in Hawaii in terms of weather. If you are looking for opportunities to save money or just want to avoid the influx of tourists, this is the best time to visit.
The exception is the end of April-beginning of may. The last week of April in Japan is called Golden week because three Japanese holidays take place one after the other. At this time of year Hawaii is visited by many tourists from the land of the Rising Sun.
WHAT TO BUY IN HAWAII
Hawaii is closely associated with Aloha shirts (or Hawaiian shirts), muu-muu (a loose - fitting women's clothing hanging from the shoulders), and the so-called "grass skirt" - a long skirt made of vegetable fibers, which is usually worn by hula dancers.
Hawaiian shirts (aloha shirt) with short sleeves are presented in two types of styles:
* bright-colored polyester Hawaiian shirts found everywhere in tourist-oriented stores throughout Hawaii;
* and Aloha shirts, a popular form of clothing among business people in Hawaii (similar to the business suit we have). These shirts are usually made of a mixture of cotton and polyester, pattern ornament applied "eversion" (on the inside of the shirt, resulting in it is less bright, more businesslike).
Muumuu (muumuu) is a long Hawaiian dress, usually made of cotton, hanging loosely from the shoulders. Like Hawaiian shirts, the tourist-oriented muu-muu dress usually has a bright floral ornament made in traditional Polynesian motifs. Muu muu continues to be a popular evening dress for women for weddings and other special events. They are often worn by women working in hotels.
Skirt of grass (also called hula skirt) is made from natural fibers of hibiscus or palm trees. This traditional skirt is not toleo Kawaii, but also other cultures of Polynesia, many peoples and tribes of Africa.
As a souvenir you can buy shampoos, body lotions, soap, oils, incense, candles, and much more. All these products have a unique Hawaiian flavor.
Macadamia nuts (Macadamia nuts). This fragrant nut is usually associated with Hawaii. Dry roasted macadamia nuts are sold without seasoning, seasoning or chocolate. Macadamia nuts are more popular among tourists than locals and are sold as Souvenirs.
You can also bring home "Crack Seed" - dried fruits of different flavors (sweet, sour, salty), a very popular type of light Breakfast in Hawaii. Especially popular in Hawaii are li hing mui - dried plums with sweet, salty and sour flavors. Sold in three types: with untouched plum bones, no bones at all or in the form of dry powder to add to other snacks.
THINGS TO DO IN HAWAII
Hiking and eco tours, horse riding, all-terrain (ATV) rides, plane tours, diving, Snorkelling are a popular way to explore the beautiful nature of Hawaii. Many Islands have interesting museums and historical monuments.
The island of Oahu is famous for tours to pearl Harbor, surfing on the North coast, popular diving in a cage with a mask and a tube for watching sharks, swimming with a mask and a tube on Waikiki, trips around Oahu by car, during which you will see all the main attractions of the island. The Oahu is home to the Polynesian cultural centre, covering not only Hawaii but also the cultures of Tahiti, Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, the Easter Islands and the Maori people of New Zealand. Read more about the island of Oahu here
Maui island is a popular spot for watching humpback whales from December 15 to April 15 each year, when humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of Hawaii to continue their offspring. Near Maui is Molokini-partially submerged crater volcano, ideal for swimming with a mask and snorkel. Read more about Maui island here
Kauai island has the best beaches in Hawaii, but don't forget the rest of this beautiful "garden Island". Take time to see the well-kept Botanical gardens, the geological wonders of Waimea canyon, the incredible carved rocks of the Na Pali coast, the tropical forests of one of the wettest places on Earth. Book a helicopter tour, rent an SUV to explore the island, go on a pilgrimage to a Hindu temple on a sacred Hawaiian site, visit the locations of famous Hollywood film (Kauai has been featured in many famous Hollywood films over the past few decades). Kauai is interesting not only for its magnificent beaches. Having visited its most interesting places, you will understand why vacationers are so fascinated by this magical island. Read more here.
On the big island of Hawaii, you can take regular tours or helicopter tours to fly over the volcanoes in the Hawaiian volcanoes National Park. In addition, on the Big island there is a rare opportunity to swim in the ocean (not dolphinariums) with dolphins and manta rays, go riding a horse, on foot, on motor vehicles (ATV) in the beautiful valley of Waipio. Lovers of sport fishing, Snorkelling, diving will be attracted by Kealakekua Bay and the coast of Kona
Hawaii is famous for its beaches and water sports. Every winter, on the Northern coast of Hawaii rolled swells (swells) - long sea waves formed as a result of storms and storms for thousands of kilometers to the North in the area of the Bering sea. Such waves are much more stable in their direction and frequency than conventional waves formed by the wind, and therefore more favorable for surfing. Surfing is practically a religion in Hawaii, most of this sport is practiced on the island of Oahu. There are many places for diving, swimming with mask and snorkel, vacationers offer water skiing, sailing, snorkel, kayaking.
The Hawaiian Islands are one of the most important habitats of the Pacific humpback whales and the only place in the United States where they are reproduced. Scientists have estimated that two-thirds of the entire population of humpback whales in the North Pacific (approximately 4000-5000) migrate to Hawaiian waters to reproduce offspring. The coastal areas around some Islands have become part of the national humpback whale marine sanctuary in Hawaii (Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary), becoming the eleventh U.S. marine sanctuary. Whale watching tours in Maui and Kauai are particularly popular.
Take the opportunity to visit luau (luau) - a traditional Hawaiian holiday. Luau is held on all Hawaiian Islands visited by tourists. Modern luau offers tourists traditional Hawaiian cuisine, Hawaiian music, hula dancing and other entertainment, traditional for Polynesia.
Unfortunately, even Paradise has its share of tourist hack. Be careful not to get caught in a trap where tourists are bred for money. At the end of each article there is a section "what to do, tours of local tour operators". It provides information about the most popular tours, which value their reputation as travel agencies, offering the best in Hawaii.