"Islands of Paradise" Hawaii (State of) by H-TownJourneyman

Iao Valley

In recent years, I have been blessed to have visited the beautiful Aloha State on several occasions. With a few friends in the right places, I have been able to experience so many things that the islands have to offer, and do it without breaking the bank! Whenever someone asks me a question about Hawaii, without fail, after my attempt at an answer, I find myself saying, "You just gotta check it out yourself!". Hawaii is like that, at least for me. It's one of those places that is beautiful, but when trying to put it in words, you never quite do it justice. And there are just sooooooo many things to see and do, it simply is a destination that must be experienced first hand to understand what it is. Each island has it's own highlights, which can make it even more exciting. Visiting each individual island is a vacation in itself. There is plenty, and I mean plenty, to do on all of them. So if you get a chance to visit Hawaii, whatever island it is, don't get in a rush. Trust me, you will not see everything. Well, that is, unless you have a spare year or so to take off! :) Take your time, and enjoy each thing that you are able to do. Visit a few times if possible, because each time can be a new and different experience. Don't have someone try to tell you how it is, just check it out yourself!!!

Waikiki at sunset

These are of course based on my own experiences while in Hawaii. But if you happen to be visiting the particular island where any of these are, I would definitely put them on your long list of things to do and see!

1. Waikiki Beach - One of the most famous beaches in the world cannot possibly be passed up during a visit to Oahu. Lots of Beach, Eating, and Shopping. What else do ya want?! :)

2. Take the Road to Hana - This is without a doubt one of the most popular things to do on Maui. Wake up early, rent a car, and make a day of it!

3. Sunrise at Haleakala - Early to bed, early-early to rise for ths Maui landmark! A sight to see if the weather is cooperating!

4. The U.S.S. Arizona Memorial - Visiting is a sobering moment, an absolute must while on Oahu.

5. North Shore of O'ahu (especially during the winter months) - Mother nature can be quite powerful, especially when she's throwing out 30 foot waves!

These tips and things to do here are ones that generally pertain to most destinations throughout the islands. For more island specific recommendations, feel free to check out my pages on:

O'ahu
Maui
Lana'i

Enjoy your time in Hawaii!