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The 132 islands that make up the state of Hawaii lie 3,860km off the coast of mainland America. Here you will discover countless square kilometers of tropical forest clinging to the sides of lazily billowing volcanoes, a place where towering surf and pristine, endless beaches have made the very word 'Hawaii' synonymous with ocean activity. An island chain that has no clear racial majority, Hawaii is a culturally and ethnically diverse vacation destination. It offers the discerning traveller the opportunity to experience a myriad of exciting cultural and natural experiences. Only seven of the Hawaiian Islands are inhabited.
The island of Hawaii is formed by five volcanoes, two of which are still active. Also known as the Big Island, the island of Hawaii is home to the Volcanoes National Park, Kona coffee, black sand beaches, surfing, and sailing, and hosts yearly triathlons. Known as the 'Gathering Place', Oahu is the commercial centre of Hawaii and as the home of Pearl Harbor is important to US naval defense in the Pacific. It is the home of the state capital, Honolulu as well as the famous Waikiki beach, a surfer's Mecca.
The island of Maui, known as the 'Valley Island', is known for its strong ocean breezes, a terrific attraction for windsurfers and sailors. Large pineapple and sugar plantations and cattle ranches are found here. This island has two diagonal mountain ranges, the Waianae and Kooolau, and many beautiful waterfalls. Here you will also find the historical town of Lahaina, incredible big wave surfing and the dormant volcanic crater of Haleakala.
The island of Kauai, known as the 'Garden Island', is lush and green, as is the sparsely inhabited Molokai, known as the 'Friendly Island'. The tiny island of Lanai, known as the 'Pineapple Island', is dotted with exclusive resorts. Here you will find ancient Polynesian rock inscriptions and abandoned local and missionary villages. The island of Niihau is privately owned by plantation families who still speak the Hawaiian language.
Hawai'i. Say the word and a thousand alluring images come to mind. Palm trees dancing to the rhythm of the trade winds. An ocean the color of sapphires. Sands as soft as baby powder. A history with all the romance, adventure and colorful characters of an epic novel. And a spirit and culture unique in the whole world.
Enriching experiences don't have to empty your pocketbook, and that's especially true about vacationing in Hawai'i. For example, consider the attractive packages offered by Island resorts year round. At Maui's Ka'anapali Beach Hotel (800/262-8450), reserve a room at published rates,which start at $170 per night, and enjoy either a free rental car or a free buffet breakfast for two every day of your stay. With the Island Hopper program, you'll receive 25 percent off published rates for getaways of seven consecutive nights or longer at any combination of Aston properties in Hawai'i. Call 800/92-ASTON. Contact your travel professional for more information. (Terms and conditions of offers may vary; rates based on availability. Taxes not included. Some restrictions apply.) Fun? It's free - or close to it - at many attractions and activities statewide. |
