As a visitor of Hawaii, you can’t but be in awe of ALL the NATURAL BEAUTY Hawaii has to offer. While vacationing here, here are some of the natural things you can see.
Volcanoes
The Hawaiian Islands are of volcanic origin. They were created by a so-called hot spot on the ocean floor about 70 million years ago. The oldest Hawaiian island is Kure Atoll and the youngest one is the Big Island of Hawaii, which rose to the surface about one million years ago.
Volcanoes National Park
Mauna Loa, Kilauea, and Loihi are three active volcanoes in Hawaii. Mauna Loa is situated on the island of Hawaii, while Kilauea can be seen at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. In 1984, Mauna Loa last erupted. Kilauea has been continuously erupting since 1983. Meanwhile, Loihi is located underwater off the southern coast of Hawaii Island. It's been erupting since 1996, and if it continues to do so, this growing seamount may be visible at the surface, adding a new island.
Landscapes
It's no secret that the islands of Hawaii are picture perfect! Imagine the ideal backdrop of majestic mountains, lush greenery, and sky blue waters. What you may not know is that a lot of great Hollywood titles were filmed in the Hawaiian Islands. Shooting on the islands goes as far back as 1976 when it hosted giant apes and, more recently, in 1993, for dinosaurs. However, romcom and adventure titles were the most common movie genres filmed in Hawaii.
Hawaii also served as a backdrop to some favorite TV shows such as Magnum, PI, TV Series Lost, and Hawaii 5-0. You can imagine how genuinely mesmerizing these islands are.
Waterfalls
Fantastic beaches, high waves for surfing, and luscious rainforests are some of the things that drive tourists to Hawaii, but let's not forget about the stunning waterfalls. Each one has its charm, and Hawaii is just brimming with them! The uniqueness of each waterfall only makes it more desirable to tourists.
Some waterfalls in Hawaii only appear when it rains, some kind of flow down the side of a mountain, but Akaka Falls is different. It has a thick column of water that always seems to have a steady stream. That's what makes this one enticing and unique!
Plumeria Flower
One of Hawaii's most quintessential symbols is the sweet, vibrant plumeria flower. Many natives wear the flowers by incorporating them into a "lei." The lei goes around your neck, or upon your hair as an accessory. You can even indicate your relationship status through these blooms, over your left ear means you are "taken" and over your right ear means you are "available."
The scent of the Plumeria can be captured in plumeria-shaped scented floating candles, luxurious body lotions, and even beautiful island jewelry. These items also make great souvenirs and gifts to take home.
Beaches
The beaches create endless possibilities for water activities such as swimming, snorkeling, diving, bodyboarding, surfing, paddle boarding, windsurfing, kite surfing, kayaking, boating, and parasailing. Each beach has something unique to offer. The most popular snorkeling beach is found in Hanauma Bay in Oahu. It's home to over 450 species of fish, some of which can only be found in Hawaii.
Hawaii is a paradise of clear blue waters that are perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving. Hilo's Leleiwi Beach and Richardson Beach Park on the east side are ideal for snorkelers and scuba divers. On the other hand, the Kona side is known for its visibility and calm waters. It's also protected from the winds due to the massive slopes of Mauna Loa.
Want a memorable experience to take home with you? Well, Hawaii lets you swim with manta rays and sea turtles. Swimming within inches from you, you can marvel at their otherworldly presence. Observe them as they feed on microscopic plankton in the illuminated waters.
Sunsets
In awe of beautiful sunsets? Then, Hawaii is the destination for you! The sunset views are truly inspirational and unique. Spectators are in awe as red, orange, pink, and blue hues make their way toward the horizon.
Have you heard of the Green Flash Phenomenon? At a specific moment, the sun fades from view and is seemingly submerged in whole by the ocean, a temporary spot of deep emerald light can be seen in its wake. The color green is bent most, allowing visitors to view an intensity of green immediately following sunset. Aptly named for the breathtaking color palette painted at dusk, you may have heard of Oahu's famous North Shore Beach. The sunsets in Hawaii are definitely worth your while.
Ride the Waves
Are you dreaming of riding the big waves? Surfing was practically born in Hawaii, and it's deeply linked to its history and culture. There is no better way to enjoy the waves than on a surfboard in Hawaii. Almost every island offers one to two-hour surfing lessons. Experienced surfers teach the lessons in gentle breaks. For beginners, longboards are more comfortable to use, and a push from your instructor can get you started.
The best place to ride your first wave? Waikiki beach, of course! I'd love to help you plan your trip, so be sure to click on the button below to start planning your amazing Hawaiian vacation!
Want to learn a little bit more about Hawaii and all it has to offer to its visitors? Check out our amazing destination guide for Hawaii, click on the picture below, to get some more ideas on what you can do on your Hawaiian vacation. Then, when you are ready to plan your trip, we can help you every step of the way!
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