Travel To Hawaii

Getting to Hawaii

Honolulu International Airport (HNL) on Oahu is Hawaii's major airport, serving as the entry point for most of Hawaii's visitors. All major domestic carriers and many international carriers serve Oahu, so you can get here from just about anywhere.

There are also direct flights from the U.S. mainland to Maui, Kauai, and Hawaii's Big Island, but for the most part, you may need to connect through Oahu to get to the neighbor islands including Lanai and Molokai. There are daily ferry services from Lahaina Harbor in Maui to both Manele Bay in Lanai and Kaunakakai Harbor in Molokai.

Staying in Hawaii

Finding accommodations is easy in Hawaii. Choose from historic hotels, luxury resorts, charming vacation rentals, bed and breakfasts, hostels and rental condos.

Anytime of the year is a good time to visit Hawaii. Summer, between April and November, is warmer and drier (average temperature is 75˚-88˚ F) while winter, between December and March, is a bit cooler (68˚-80˚ F). Trade winds keep things comfortable year-round.

Traveling in Hawaii

To really experience all that Hawaii offers, you should consider renting a car. Reserve your rental vehicles in advance because quantities can be limited on some islands. Many visitors also enjoy taking bus tours to conveniently explore the Islands. Shuttles, taxis and public transport are available on most islands.

Hawaii's Environment

The natural beauty of Hawaii’s fragile environment comes from its geographical isolation from other ecosystems. Bringing plants, produce or animals can introduce pests and non-endemic species that could be destructive to Hawaii’s environment.

The Department of Agriculture enforces strict rules regarding the exportation of uninspected plants and animals and requires a declaration form for each person arriving in Hawaii. When departing, your luggage must pass a pre-flight screening for uninspected fruits and plants. You are welcome to take inspected fresh flowers and fruits home. Items purchased at the airport or mailed home from local vendors are inspected for you.

Then breathe deep. Smell the fresh plumeria in the air. Visit the historic landmarks of Hawaii and learn about the rich culture of the islands. Explore off-the-beaten-path destinations, from hidden beaches to small towns that you won’t find on a postcard. Learn to surf, snorkel or kayak and earn your Hawaii suntan. And don’t forget to go to an authentic luau where you can get a taste of Hawaiian culture and watch the art of the hula. You’ll find the itineraries on Hawaii are endless. From romantic escapades to family fun; from whale watching to walking on a volcano; you can do it all or you can simply sit back and do nothing. Explore Hawaii’s six unique islands and you’re sure to find your first trip to Hawaii won’t be your last. Learn more about things to do, activities and shopping in Hawaii.

Haleakala National Park, Maui

Stretching across East Maui, Haleakala National Park is home to Haleakala Crater. Rising over 10,000 feet above sea level, Haleakala means “House of the Sun” in Hawaiian. Sunrises at this altitude are amazing.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii’s Big Island

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Located 30 miles southwest of Hilo, this is the home of Kilauea Volcano, one of the most active volcanoes on earth. This is the most popular visitor attraction in Hawaii and a sacred 

place for Native Hawaiians.

Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historic Park, Hawaii’s Big Island

Located on Honaunau Bay in south Kona, Puuhonua o Honaunau immerses you in Hawaiian culture. This 180-acre national historic park was once a place of refuge for ancient Hawaiian lawbreakers.

Pearl Harbor, National Historic Landmark, Oahu

Pearl Harbor is the only naval base in the United States to be designated a National Historical Landmark. Pearl Harbor honors its history with four museums: the U.S.S. Arizona Memorial, the Battleship Missouri Memorial, The U.S.S. Bowfin Submarine Museum and the Pacific Aviation Museum.

Kalaupapa National Historical Park, Molokai

Established in 1980, this National Historical Park was once home to Belgian missionary Saint Damien. Beginning in 1873, this selfless priest treated and gave hope to victims of Hansen’s disease who were exiled to this isolated location on the striking northern coast of Molokai.

Waimea Canyon State Park, Kauai

Although not a National Park, this is the home of Waimea Canyon, a 3,500-foot deep natural wonder nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” Further north is Kokee State Park, which offers incredible hiking trails and an informative natural history museum.

Source: http://www.gohawaii.com