subject: Hawaii Family Vacations and Hotels [print this page] Hawaii Family Vacations and Hotels Hawaii Family Vacations and Hotels
Hawaii is legendary for its excellent beaches. But even as there's not anything quite like basking under the hot Hawaiian sun and feeling your concerns drift away with each gentle wave that laps at your toes, there is lots more to the Aloha State than absorbing some sun. You should get out and about and accomplish something!
Whether they're by land, air or sea, Hawaii's fabulous outdoor adventures are virtually limitless.
For hikers, you will discover great nature paths on each Hawaiian island, including treks for novices and experts. On Maui, Haleakala is respected as one of the state's greatest hiking spots. A popular hike on Oahu stands out as the 45-minute climb up to the top of Diamond Head, where visitors are rewarded with sweeping views of Waikiki, Honolulu as well as the Pacific Ocean. On the Big Island, head to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and tackle the Kilauea Iki Trail, a five-mile adventure that starts along at the Thurston Lava Tube.
If you prefer to get your exercise by cycling, you can find few bicycling excursions as pleasant as the downhill cruise around the slopes of Haleakala. On Lanai, cycle to arrive at the enigmatic Garden of the Gods, a moon-like panorama dotted with multi-colored and strangely worn rocks.
Horseback riding is usually a favorite outdoor activity. Enjoy "happy trails" when on the Big Island, where you may be a paniolo (cowboy) for the day at places like Parker Ranch, one of the biggest ranches (175,000 acres) within the United States.
How about something truly unexpected, like Skiing in Hawaii. The summit of Mauna Kea on the Big Island is normally covered with snow commencing late November through April. Only advanced skiers should try to brave these slopes, however.
The ocean grants many exciting leisure possibilities. Take a surfing class at Waikiki Beach, where gentle waves and shallow waters are great for novices. Snorkel at Hanauma Bay or go SCUBA diving at Cathedrals, based just off Lanai's south shore. Hook a marlin or tuna on the deep waters off Kailua-Kona when on the Big Island. Or travel to Kauai and experience a kayaking trip along the awesome Napali Coast.
Take to the skies and get a bird's-eye view of paradise. You will come across numerous hang-gliding and helicopter adventures on almost every Hawaiian island. You could even go skydiving on Oahu, where a licensed professional will join you on a tandem jump at 13,000 feet. Picture the adrenaline rush of free-falling 5,000 feet before your parachute opens!
The list of outside activities goes on and on: camping, hunting, clay shooting, sailing, windsurfing, jogging, whale watching, parasailing and also a lot more. There is an entire world of adventure awaiting you in the Hawaiian Islands. Whatever are you waiting for?
