Hawaii is situated in the North Pacific Ocean and is the 50th state of the United States. It lies in the tropics, completely surrounded by water and without any territory on any mainland or continent. The islands were formed by the volcanoes that rose from the sea floor and there is a theory that the tectonic plate under the Pacific Ocean moves in a north westerly direction and the hot spots remain stationary and this is slowly creating new volcanoes and explains why southern Hawaii has active volcanoes.
The legend of the Polynesians says that the goddess Pele moved across the islands of aloha till she reached the big island which was her home. Here is one island where active volcanoes erupt constantly, adding to the overall land area. It inspires a spirit of energy and creativity in every visitor. There are many water falls which leave visitors spellbound, the flora and fauna add an element of fantasy to the place and the beaches are watched over by Snow Mountains. All said and done, the natural scenic beauty of this place defies description.
The capital city of Hilo has one foot in the present and one in the past. It rains only in the evenings which ensures that it is ever green. Local color would include a trip to the Siusan Fish Auction and the Farmer's Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays. North of Hilo is the Hamakua coast which has vertical cliffs, wispy waterfalls and lush green valleys. The highway ends at the Waipio Valley which is the only one accessible by road. Hiking here should be a priority.
The town of Wainea is home to the Parker Ranch, the largest in the country. It's a complete cowboy treat with the 4th of July Rodeo thrown in for good measure. Mauna Kea is a place best approached by the Saddle Road where you would be literally on top of the world at 13,796 feet. Now we move from Waimea down the hill to the south Kohala coast, a playground beyond belief. Swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing all on the sunny shores of white beaches is to be experienced to be believed.
The harbor town of Kailua-Kona has shops, restaurants, hotels, condominiums, deep sea fishing charters and the Ironman Triathlon World Championship every October. Head south and fill your senses with the amazing fragrance of some of the world's best coffee. The Kona Historical Society in Kealakekua is home to the local history. Some of the best snorkeling sites can be found here. Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park is the place that served as a refuge for the Hawaiians and is one of the most sacred sites of Hawaii.
Kau is bordered by the Puna district at the Kilauea volcano. Life goes on despite lava engulfing some towns, but for the orchids and flower growers, its business as usual. Here, tired but happy tourists can soak in the volcano heated thermal pool and reflect on all the beauty that they have seen. The wonderful vacation spots in Hawaii really need to be experienced to be believed.
