Hawaii's Must-see Hidden Gems
Since the state of Hawaii is made up of several breathtakingly picturesque islands
, it is almost like having multiple vacation destinations in one. In fact, over 80% of tourists go to just three islands, Hawaii, Oahu and Maui, which means Lanai, Kauai and Molokai are entire islands full of lesser-known sights, sounds and wonders. Still, all of the islands of Hawaii are diamonds in the rough and full of hidden gems that are a must-see for any visitor. With so many places to choose from it can be hard to decide where to begin. These tips on some of Hawaii's must-see hidden gems can help you get started on deciding where you wish to explore first. We will hit one of the lesser isles, Kauai, and the two biggies, Oahu and Hawaii, but do some more research and you will find other must-see hidden gems on all of the Hawaiian Islands.
Kauai
This green isle has plenty of great water activities, with snorkeling among the most popular. Ha'ena Beach State Park is along the North coast of the island, about 10 miles past Princeville, and is a beautiful, uncrowded location for snorkeling. On arrival, you simply walk down the sandy beach to your right (from the parking area) until you reach the beach known as Tunnels. The water is calm and the reef is a considerable distance away, so it makes for great, safe snorkeling. The best time for snorkeling here is in the summer, but even then you will not have the crowds you would find at, say, Waikiki.
Anini Beach, also in the North, is also a great water sports location, perfect for swimming, snorkeling and body boarding, too. Turn right on Kalahiwai Road just after the Big Bridge, a landmark that any local can direct you to. Stay on Kalihiwai Road for just a moment and then take a quick left onto Anini Road, and follow it to the end. You can then trek a bit to the beach with your gear. Anini Beach is wide, large and sparsely populated even in summer, and the waves break quite a distance out. Snorkelers have a huge area to explore, so those interested in floating and lolling in the water can do it just about anywhere!
Oahu
West Oahu is an emerging and growing area of the island, where a new Disney resort is going to be opening in 2011, but until it does this remains a less-visited area. There are many semi-secret spots for your enjoyment, especially if you like great food. As you are on your way to some off-the-beaten path places (like Round Top Drive on Mt. Tantalus, a nine-mile loop with the best view ever) stop at Sari Sari BBQ for great Filipino food that is quick, cheap and delicious.
The Waimea Valley is not an unknown place, but as a center for Hawaiian native spirituality it attracts low-profile, quiet and nature-loving visitors. They just started a tram so you can now visit and photograph the amazing waterfall without taking the long hike. The Polynesian Cultural Center in Laie, Oahu is the best place to learn the rich and extraordinary history of the people that inhabited the island of Hawaii so many centuries ago. It attracts plenty of visitors, so the secret here is that Laie is a small, authentic Hawaiian town/village that has real artisans and ethnic cooks that will introduce you to anything you miss at the Cultural Center!
For relaxed aquatic adventures, the Ko Olina Beach Lagoons offer placid, pleasant waters for splashing and swimming. At the other end of the spectrum is the North Shore, home to some of the biggest and most challenging waves on the planet. It is a more rural area on the island, and is also a must see for those desiring off-the-beaten path fun and more great eateries. Opal Thai, Ted's Bakery (three miles past Shark's Cove) and other local favorites will hit the spot with most everyone.
Hawaii
The Big Island has many fabulous beaches (some fabulously crowded), so lesser-traveled Punalu'u Black Sand beach, about a half-hour from Kona, is well worth the trip. Visiting there, you can expect to see many Honu (green sea turtles) peacefully sunbathing. Feel free to look, but do not touch! Both the Honu and the Honu'ea (Hawksbill turtle, usually visible only at night) are protected species. In fact, the Punalu'u black sand itself is considered a protected Hawaiian treasure. You can buy small amounts of black and green sand at the little outdoor gift store on the beach, and the fabulous bakery there will introduce you to some secret goodies, as well.
In Hilo, do not miss a drive down Banyan Drive, famous for both Banyan trees and the celebrities that lived and vacationed there. Such luminaries as King George V, FDR and Babe Ruth planted many of these trees, and the celebrity trees are marked by plaques that make it easy to identify the benefactors. Also in Hilo is the world-famous Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Plantation with its fascinating visitor's center. It is not typically crowded, and well worth your time, as are the lovely Liliuokalani Japanese Gardens.
by: Jesse Henson
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