The United States has many beautiful places to visit. From the Blue Ridge Mountains in North Carolina to the white sand beaches of the Gulf of Mexico. One state, however, seems to be overflowing with incredible tourist attractions: Hawaii.
The state was the 50th admitted to the union and it is one of the most popular travel destinations in the country. It’s such an amazing place that people visit and the next thing you know they’re looking for home loans in Hawaii. It has everything you can imagine: beaches, lush forests, volcanoes and much more. There are eight main islands in the state and each of them has something unique to offer.
Check out some of the places that will knock your socks off below:
1. Hilo
Hilo is on the Big Island of Hawaii and is the island’s largest city. It’s not just a city though, it’s also home to gorgeous places like Rainbow Falls, Coconut Island, and Boiling Pots. You can also visit the astronomy center and Richardson Beach.
2. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
This park, also on the Big Island, is home to one of the most active volcanoes in the world and encompasses more than 520 square miles. While you are there you can hike more than 100 miles of trails through rainforests, craters, and scalded deserts.
3. Punalu’u Black Sand Beach
Black sand beaches aren’t something that you see every day, but that’s exactly what you can find at Punalu’u Beach. This beach is also on the Big Island. It was created when lava hit the ocean and cooled.
If you get lucky you might see endangered green and hawksbill turtles chillin’ on the beach.
4. Pearl Harbor
This isn’t like any of the others on our list but everyone should visit it when they go to our 50th state. On December 7, 1941, Japanese kamikaze fighters attacked the American base and killed 2,403 people. It’s known as the event that propelled the US into World War II.
The Pearl Harbor memorial is located on the island of Oahu and pays tribute to those who lost their lives that day.
5. Akaka Falls
This waterfall is 442 feet long and you can access it by visiting the state park with the same name. The park is on the Big Island and if you’re a fan of the Jurassic Park movies, you’ll be excited to know one of them had some scenes filmed here.
In addition to visiting the waterfall, you can hike and sightsee.
6. Road to Hana
Hana Highway is located on Maui Island. It’s a 52-mile road that everyone should travel down at least once in their lifetime. You can see the Garden of Eden Arboretum, Twin Falls, Honomanu Bay, Upper Waikani Falls, Hanawi Falls, a number of state parks and cute roadside stands. It’s a jam-packed highway of fun.
7. Kalalau Trail
The trail is 11 miles long on the island of Kauai. You can hike along the coast from Ke’e Beach to Kalalau Beach and experience the beautiful land along this part of the coast. Hiking is the only way you can access it.
8. Wai’anapanapa State Park
Located off of the Hana Highway in Maui, this is a must-see for any visitor. It features a black sand beach, lovely forest, plenty of opportunities to hike, a religious temple and freshwater caves.
9. Waimea Canyon
This park is known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” and it is a geological wonder. The canyon is 14 miles long, 3,600 feet deep and a mile wide. It’s located on the island of Kauai.
10. Kamakou Preserve
Have you ever wanted to visit a rainforest? Here is your chance. The preserve is on the island of Moloka’i. It is 2,774 acres and has more than 200 native plants. You might even see a rare bird or two.
No matter where you decide to visit in Hawaii, just remember to be careful if you are hiking. Make sure you follow directions on signs and maps. Do not go off of the marked trails and, most importantly, have a good time.