Hawaii consists of six major islands in the Pacific Ocean. The Aloha State features lush rainforest, botanical gardens, colorful canyons, active volcanoes, cascading waterfalls and tropical reefs. On land or sea, outdoor enthusiasts explore these lush, geological formations through hiking, biking, kayaking and scuba diving. Hawaii is a vacation destination for families, adventurous travelers and newlyweds who want to experience the Aloha spirit and the natural beauty of the Hawaiian islands.
Hiking
Hawaii is a hiking destination due to a consistent temperate climate. Hikers should bring adequate clothing, food and water for humid and rainy weather. Hikers experience Hawaii's flora and fauna through bamboo forests, volcanic crests, rain forests and tropical mountains.
One hiking destination is on the north shore of Kauai along the Napali Coast. Hikers find the trailhead at Kee Beach for the challenging 11-mile one-way Kalalau Trail. This hike meanders along the rugged, fertile coast overlooking the Pacific Ocean. In addition, hikers view waterfalls, native flowers and birds. Hikers should not attempt a round trip hike in one day. Overnight gear, food and water are needed to complete the 22 miles. Most hikers overnight camp at Hanakapiai to reach the final destination, Kalalau Beach, the next morning.
Windsurfing
Windsurfing is a challenging water sport that uses a board and a sail. Maui, consisting of 120 miles of shoreline, is Hawaii's windsurfing destination. Expert windsurfers head to Central Maui's Hookipa Beach to conquer the massive surf. This surf produces waves up to 30 feet in height. Surfing and windsurfing competitions occur at Hookipa. Novice windsurfers take lessons at the Windsurfing School of Maui located in Kahului. The school features six levels of group or private lessons that are available for beginner and experienced windsurfers. Lesson fees include the equipment rental.
Water Activities
The small island of Molokai is in the heart of the Hawaiian Islands. Molokai is often referred to "The Friendly Island" and Old Hawaii due to the aloha spirit, deserted beaches and no buildings taller than the palm trees. This island is quiet, laid back and does not suffer from light pollution. The quiet white sand beaches attract families and aqua lovers to relax or take advantage of Hawaii's famous water sports.
Molokai Fish and Dive features day trips and tours for snorkeling, scuba diving, ocean kayaking, whale watching and sport fishing. Explore underwater ecosystems and tropical reefs by scuba diving or snorkeling Molokai's hidden dive locations. Take kayak lessons or trips to paddle the calm waters along the tropical shoreline.
Skydiving
Oahu commonly known as "The Gathering Place," attracts tourists year round. Enjoy the best of the urban and cultural life by visiting Honolulu or the sacred, historical landmarks. Nature enthusiasts visit the Waianae and Koolau mountain range for a tropical Hawaiian experience. Adventure seekers get a bird's eye view of Oahu with an adrenaline-rushing skydiving session. Skydive Hawaii features tandem jumps and skydiving courses for people to enhance skydiving skills and knowledge. Tandem jumpers free-fall at 120 miles per hour overlooking Oahu and the Pacific Ocean. All tandem jumps are with a U.S. Parachute Association licensed tandem instructor. First time jumpers are welcome to experience Oahu at a 10,000 to 14,000 elevation. Skydiving operates daily.
Biking
The Big Island of Hawaii encompasses a variety of terrain. Outdoor enthusiasts experience snow-capped mountain tops, black sand beaches, volcanic deserts and botanical gardens. Visitors rent bikes to explore the various parts of the island for sight-seeing and exercise, including Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Located 45 minutes south of Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaii, this park is home to an active volcano. Adventure cyclists ride the easy to challenging roads to experience the volcanic terrain. The steep Summit to Sea route challenges riders with a 40-mile roundtrip course. Cyclists in Volcanoes National Park ride among forest, plains and the lava flow from Mauna Ulu. Bring plenty of food and water since this course is hot, windy and polluted with volcanic steam along Crater Road.
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