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Islands of Hawaii

It was the constant eruption of volcanoes underwater over a period of thousands of years that made the islands of Hawaii. This is why sands on the various islands of Hawaii are exotic in color. The fertile ocean waters helped turn these new islands into treasure troves of exotic wildlife.

According to tradition, there were people in the islands Hawaii before there were people in North America. The first residents of Hawaii traveled from other parts of Polynesia, including the Marquesas Islands. The United States gained Hawaii from Spain as part of the treaty ending the Spanish-American War. Hawaii was made the fiftieth state on August 21, 1959.

Nature programs on television often film the lava that continues to force its way up through the surface of the ocean floor from the center of the earth.  The islands of Hawaii continue to grow every day. The big island of Hawaii has a hidden volcano underneath it that will promote growth of the islands for centuries to come.

The six main islands of  Hawaii:

  • "The Big Island”, Hawaii is the largest of the chain and has the most nature locales.
     
  • Maui, or the “Valley Island” was named after the Polynesian demigod Maui. Maui is located right next to the big island.
     
  • Lanai, or the “Pineapple Island,” is known for its delicious pineapple crops and is the smallest of the six islands.
     
  • Molokai, or the “Friendly Island,” is less developed than some of the other islands but is known for its amazing beach views.
     
  • Oahu, or the “Gathering Place,” has the most dense population and also is the home of Honolulu, the state capital.
     
  • Kauai, or the “Garden Island,” has the peerless Waimea Canyon and unusual plant life.
  • Whether you love tropical rainforests, mountain views, or beachfront sightgs, the Hawaiian Islands are for you. You can hike, ride horses, and take tours throughout the forests that populate the islands. On the beaches, you can go scuba diving or snorkeling, take underwater tours, and even ride on a submarine, in addition to the typical pastimes of sunning and swimming. The Garden Island, Kauai, feels like Mother Nature’s first laboratory, where there are so many unique things to see.

    Molokai has a wealth of options for the traveler, ranging from amazing golf courses to numerous fishing and underwater opportunities. The big island is home to the Mauna Kea Golf Course, Ko Olina, and the Challenge at Manele, and is a favorite destination for golfers. The islands boast more than 80 courses. If you are ready to head indoors, Hawaii has a wealth of museums, cultural opportunities, and an energetic night life.

    One of the most popular characteristics of Hawaii is its weather. The temperature is almost always between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. While typhoons may arrive between June and November, and while the rainy season goes from September to April, there is basically never a bad time to visit the islands. The winter features huge breakers on the north shore of Oahu that draw surfers from around the globe. During the summer months, the surfers move to the south beaches, particularly Waikiki and Poipu. Make sure you book far enough in advance to get the lodging and amenities you want, at the price you can afford. Contact your local travel agent or look online for the Hawaiian tour package of your dreams!

    Islands of Hawaii Resources

    Big Island Nature Tour
    This article describes Hawaii Forest and Trail, and eco-tour operator that introduces visitors to the natural beauty and diversity of Hawaii's Big Island

    Author Credit:
    Michelle Darby loves travel and Hawaii! Her enthusiasm is captured in articles like islands of Hawaii

    © 2006 Michelle Darby

     



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