Hawaii is the America’s 50th and smallest state. Made up entirely of islands, it is a paradise lost if not visited. It is extremely popular for holidaymakers with places like the Exceptional Villas being fully booked for months on end. So, if you’re wanting to plan a trip to the islands then you best hurry up and get somewhere booked! The reason for its popularity among tourists? Along with the amazing weather, you can never run out of things to do in Hawaii!
If you are thinking of learning the language, its alphabet consists of only 12 letters. Many of us associate Hawaii with smooth sandy beaches, palms trees, grass skirts and the soothing tones of the Hawaiian guitar, so let us explore 3 Hawaiian experiences to see what really is on offer.
- Waikiki Beach, situated on the outskirts of Honolulu, is a world-famous oceanfront destination and the primary tourist attraction in Hawaii. One of the distinctive features that add to its allure is the Waikiki Historic Trail, which highlights the rich history of the area through unique markers made from surfboards. These markers serve as a tribute to Duke Kahanamoku, an iconic figure in Waikiki renowned for winning Olympic gold medals in swimming and for his deep passion for surfing. If you are planning a visit to this extraordinary beach, it’s advisable to purchase the necessary surfing essentials (from stores like https://all-in-company.us/), so that you can fully enjoy the breathtaking waters and magnificent waves of this renowned surfing paradise in Hawaii.
- For those who have never witnessed a volcano in person, Hawaii’s National Park provides an abundance of opportunities. Established in 1916, the park offers awe-inspiring views that will leave you breathless. It is home to two highly active volcanoes: Kīlauea and Mauna Loa. The Kīlauea volcano had a significant eruption in 2018, forever altering the landscape of Hawaii. From May to August of that year, mesmerizing lava flows could be observed extending across the southeastern region of the park. Unfortunately, this event resulted in the destruction of 700 homes in the Puna District. It serves as a reminder that volcanoes can erupt unpredictably. Despite the devastation they can cause, witnessing the raw power of the molten lava and the rugged structure of the volcano itself is a truly captivating spectacle.
- Pearl Harbour can be considered a National Landmark for Hawaii and is an active military base. In history, 1,177 service personnel traveling on the USS Arizona were killed in action there. World War II attractions here include the USS Arizona Memorial, found floating above what remains of this sunken ship. No charges are made for visiting this attraction, although it is essential to book in advance due to its high number of visitors. Another free admission is the Pearl Harbour Visitor Center. A tour from here includes being transported to Ford Island and the Pacific Aviation Museum, where Word War II aircraft and various artifacts can be seen. For an opportunity not to be missed here, you will be given the chance to experience, first-hand, albeit through a simulator, landing for yourself an aircraft on an aircraft carrier. For those that have lost loved ones during this time, the memorial is a beacon of support for all of those who have lost their lives or did not come home after the war. Some families who do not know where their siblings, uncles, fathers, etc. went afterward can now go onto websites like https://www.genealogybank.com/explore/obituaries/all/usa/minnesota/minneapolis/star-tribune to see where they ended up and celebrate their bravery in the face of war and separation.
More on Waikiki
Waikiki was where the Beachboys first appeared when they featured in a revival of Hawaiian watersports. They earned a living from providing surfing instruction and canoe rides. They made a lifestyle from everything that was linked to beaches and the ocean. It was 1901 that they first arrived when the Moana Hotel was opened. In 1934, the Waikiki Beach Patrol was formed. Perhaps more familiar to many of us from pop history are The Beach Boys who performed hits such as: ‘Surfin’ USA’ and ‘Good Vibrations’ during the 1960s. With regards to traditional Hawaiian music, at the time of writing, the places in Honolulu where you can listen to it include: Chiko’s Tavern, Duke’s Waikiki, Hula Grill & Bar, Imua Lounge, Nico’s Pier, Off the Hook Poke Market, Ono Seafood Hawaii and Tikis Grill & Bar. It was the Hawaiians who made popular playing a guitar in a horizontal position as opposed to a vertical one. This style of playing begun with Joseph Kekuku in 1890, and then became widespread internationally.
So, Hawaii can offer not just the paradise associated with its beaches, but also an experience for the geologist, the wartime historian and the musician.