Activities in the Hawaiian Islands

Activities in the Hawaiian Islands
Hawaii is one of the world's top tourist destinations with a number of things to do on the Islands if you are looking for more than just a lazy time on the beach. Because of the geographical makeup of the Hawaiian Islands, the landscape offers many sightseeing and adventure activities, from jungle hikes to diving in world-class reefs or visiting the ever-changing landscape of Hawaii's active volcanoes.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on Big Island is the top tourist attraction in Hawaii. The ever-changing environment is the result of the presence of Kilauea, the world's most active volcano. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park can be seen in many different tours, from hiking to biking, helicopter or light plane. This is one of the only places on Earth where you are able to get so close to active lava flows and it is a must-see for any visitor to Hawaii.

Surfing Lessons

Hawaii has some of the most celebrated waves in the world, but for those who aren't up to catching the massive surf of Oahu Island that attracts the pros, then surfing lessons on Waikiki Beach are a good way to get in on the Islands' most popular and oldest sporting activity. The varieties of lessons available are from beginners to accomplished surfers. Aside from regular surfing, activities include paddle surfing, windsurfing on Maui's Hookipa Beach and kite surfing.

Scuba Diving

Hawaii has some of the most celebrated diving sites in the world and the beauty of the ocean floor can be appreciated by beginners and experienced divers alike. There are schools that will teach the basics of diving for first-timers as well as dive sites specifically for seasoned divers. The most celebrated dive site in Hawaii for experienced divers is the Molokini Crater, which is an extinct volcano off Maui. For beginners, Napili Bay and Kahoolawe off the Maui coast are sites that are popular.

Ocean Rafting

Ocean rafting tours in Hawaii are the best option for enjoying the beauty of the Islands at close range. The various ocean rafting tours available can take in a "snorkeling with dolphins" adventure in the waters off Maui, exploring the many ocean caves and lava tubes along Big Island's Kona Coast, whale watching and sea and land tours that access secluded hiking and snorkeling areas on all the Islands.

Movie Location Tours

Situated on Oahu Island, these tours take around five hours and include some of Hawaii's most scenic locations as well as stops at the Hawaii Timeline Museum, the Movie Museum and a recreation of an ancient Hawaiian village. This is an opportunity to get off the beaten path and step into the film locations of some of the biggest movies ("Jurassic Park," "Godzilla" and "Pearl Harbor") and television shows ("Lost") in recent history.

Article Written By B.T. Alo

B.T. Alo is media director, chief writer and editor for a U.S.-based marketing and consulting firm. He holds a bachelor's degree in business and communications. Alo's interests include business, investments, electronics, personal finance, health, communication, popular trends and travel.

Write for Trails.com
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