Hawaii is known for its amazing beaches and scenic wonders, but one a vacation in Hawaii you can also be a volcano tourist.  Volcanic activity created the entire state of Hawaii so it’s no surprise there are plenty of volcanic hot spots to see.  Keep these natural sights in mind when you plan your next Hawaii vacation.

Big Island: The Big Island is home to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.  Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, two of the world's most active volcanoes, are located here.  You can choose to sightsee on your own or reserve a guided tour.  Two recommended options are the Hawaii Forest & Trail Kilauea Volcano Tour and Hawaii Volcano Evening Eco-Tour from Discover Hawaii Tours.  Mauna Kea is the highest point in the state of Hawaii and this famous volcano has become the sight of several observatories. A visit here is best for star-gazing and sunsets.  Another active volcano – Loihi – is located off the southern coast of the Big Island.

Maui: Haleakala, one of the world’s largest dormant volcanoes, is located at Haleakala National Park.  The park is divided into two sections – the summit area and the coastal Kipahulu area.  There are sorts of activities available at Haleakala including hiking and biking.  Plus, the sunrises and sunsets are exquisite here and not to be missed.   Make a reservation with Maui Downhill for a Haleakala Bike Tour or choose Temptation Tours for a Haleakala Sunrise Tour. 

Oahu: Diamond Head, also known as “Leahi,” is Oahu’s most famous landmark.  This state monument was created as part of the Honolulu Volcanic Series.  The most popular thing to do at Diamond Head is hike to the top.  The hike lasts 1.5–2 hours round-trip, and the views from the summit are incredible. 

OAHU

June 8:  Pan-Pacific Hoolaulea

Kick off the 33rd Annual Pan-Pacific Festival with the Hoolaulea (street festival) on Friday from 7-10 p.m. There will be food, arts and crafts, and nine stages of cultural performances. The event will be held along Kalakaua Avenue in Waikiki.

June 8-10: Pan-Pacific Festival

This free 3-day event is an international cultural celebration that features performances, demonstrations, hula festival, food, and a parade. The festival will be held various locations throughout Waikiki and Ala Moana. Visit the festival’s website for complete details.

June 9:  King Kamehameha Celebration Floral Parade & Hoolaulea

This celebration honors the reign of King Kamehameha and begins at 9 a.m. with a parade that goes from Iolani Palace to Kapiolani Park. At the end of the parade route there will be a Hoolaulea from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

June 9:  Kamehameha Day Parade Pupu at Hawaiian Mission Houses

Come to the Hawaiian Mission Houses Historic Site and Archives on Saturday from 9-11 a.m. for a parade and picnic on the lawns.

June 23:  Waikiki Artfest

Kapiolani Park will host 80 regional artists as they display and sell their work. There will also be food and entertainment. Admission is free. Event goes from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

MAUI

June 1:  Wailuku First Friday

This monthly street party will have music, food, and artisans. North Market Street will be closed to traffic from 6-9 p.m. for this free community event.

June 10:  South Maui Triathlon at Wailea

Registration is open for the South Maui Triathlon held at Wailea Beach Marriott Resort & Spa.

June 16:  King Kamehameha Celebration

Come to Kamehameha Iki Park from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. for food, entertainment, crafts, exhibits, and a parade. The parade begins at 9:45 a.m.

BIG ISLAND

June 8:  Big Island Chocolate Festival

This inaugural event at the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai will feature chef demonstrations, cacao presentations and farm tours and an evening event with a silent auction, appetizers, drinks, and dancing. Tickets are available for purchase online.

June 11:  King Kamehameha Day Celebration

An early-morning ceremony and lei-draping will be held at the King Kamehameha I original statue followed by a floral parade. Hoolaulea festivities will be held at Kamehameha Park. There will be food, exhibits, and entertainment until 4 p.m. The lei-draping ceremony begins at 8 a.m.

KAUAI

June 16-17:  Relay for Life of Hanalei

The American Cancer Society Relay for Life will be held at Wailoi Park in Hanalei. The opening ceremony will start at 6 p.m. on June 16. Find out all the details and sign up online.

June 30:  Red Clay Jazz Festival

The 5^th annual Red Clay Jazz Festival will be held at Lani Maile at Kauai Lagoons Resort in Lihue. The event goes from 3-9 p.m., rain or shine, and tickets cost $40. The performing artists include Miss E.C. Scott, Venissa Santi Sextet – Afro Cuban Holiday, Vanessa Collier and the Berklee All-Stars, and The Kirk Smart Quartet.

Hawaii is on just about everyone’s Top 10 places to visit.  No matter which island you choose to vacation on, you’re in for a spectacular getaway full of local culture, exotic landscape and stunning sights.  Many people choose to island hop too, adding to the adventure that is Hawaii.

Planning a vacation in Hawaii?  Here’s what you need to know:

·        The Honolulu International Airport on Oahu is Hawaii’s major airport.  It serves as the entry point for most Hawaii visitors.  You can get to just about anywhere on the Hawaiian Islands from the Oahu Airport.  From the Honolulu Airport it only takes about 30 minutes to reach Kauai and Maui and about 45 minutes for the Big Island.  However, direct flights from the mainland to Maui, Kauai and the Big Island are also available although they carry a bit bigger price tag.

·        Any time of year is a good time to visit Hawaii.  April through November has an average temperature of 75-90 degrees while December through March temperatures range from 70-80 degrees.

·        Rent a car.  You’ll be able to see and do more if you have your own transportation. Plus, some of the best Hawaii experiences are off the beaten path so you’ll need a vehicle to get to them.  Reserve your rental car in advance as quantities can sometimes be limited.  However, shuttles, taxis and public transportation are available on most islands if you’d prefer not to drive.

·        The time difference in Hawaii is five hours behind Eastern Standard Time.  Hawaii does not observe Daylight Savings Time so add one extra hour if you’re visiting March through November.  

·        If you’re an international traveler, note the currency in Hawaii is the US dollars and is accepted throughout all the islands. There are plenty of banks, ATMs, and money changing offices to be found in all cities and towns. However, ATMs are scarcer on the North Shore of Oahu and in rural areas.  Money changing facilities can be found at all major banks.

Hana Highway hugs the Maui Coastline.

One of the top things to do in Hawaii is drive the Road to Hana in Maui.  The centuries old path is dotted with spectacular scenery, rustic towns and plenty of Hawaiian culture.  Fill the car up with gas, pack a picnic lunch and hit the road to discover the “Highway to Heaven.” 

Here’s a few of the top sights to look for on your journey:

·        Twin Falls:  These easily accessible falls feature several deep, emerald pools sparking beneath cascading waterfalls.  Swimming and photo opportunities are a highlight.  Location: Past mile marker 2.

·        Waikamoi Nature Trail: A short but sometimes muddy trail leads you to coastal views.  Great for non-hikers who just want to stretch their legs, the trail is lined with tall eucalyptus trees and fragrant ginger. Location: Between mile markers 9 and 10.

·        Puohokamoa Falls: Make sure you see both the upper and lower sections of Puohokamoa Falls as many people visit only the upper section, and miss the gorgeous 200-foot cascading waterfall on the lower section.  A short walk along an easily accessible path takes you to the spectacular waterfall tumbling over a tall green cliff. The falls are best seen from the Puohokamoa Lookout Point. Location: Between mile markers 10 and 11.

·        Keanae Arboretum: This stop offers a bit more challenging hike, plenty of plant life and is a great spot for photos.  About 150 tropical plants can be found here and the Piinaau Stream meanders around the arboretum creating a swimming pond.  Two short walking trails leads guests to a beautiful forest and if you’re up for even more scenic views head a ½ mile down the highway to Keanae Overlook, which has some fantastic views of Haleakala.  Location: Mile marker 17.

·        Wailua Overlook: You can see Wailua Canyon from the parking lot and after you walk up a set of steps you have a view of Wailua Village and signature sight in Hawaii – water-logged taro patches. Make time to see the church made of coral – once known as St. Gabriel’s – as it is steeped in legend.  When locals decided to build a church a storm washed up just enough coral to build the church and then took any excess coral back to sea.  Location: Near mile marker 21.

·        Waikani Falls: Also known as “Three Bears Falls,” this stop is an absolute must for any Road to Hana adventurer.  The nickname is derived from the fact each waterfall is taller than the next like a family of bears.  The Waikani Falls are some of the most dramatic falls in East Maui.  Location: Past mile marker 21.

·        Hana Lava Tube: Also known as “Kaeleku Caverns,” the Hana Lava Tube is Maui’s largest lave tube.  During a visit here, you can take a self-guided 30-40 minute tour accentuated by colorful underworld formations.  The tour is offered daily from 10:30am-4pm.  Cost is $11.95.  Location: One mile off Ulaino Rd.

·        Waianapanapa State Park Maui: This 122-acre state park is home to a black sand beach, dramatic sea caves, natural stone arch hiking trails, and has remnants of Old King’s Highway.  If you hike to the lighthouse, you’ll have gorgeous views of the bay.  Location: Right past mile marker 32.

·        Hamoa Beach: The 100-foot-wide beach is about 900 feet long and sits below 30-foot, black-lava sea cliffs. Sea cliffs surround the bay and the vegetation is lush. This beach has been voted one of Hawaii's favorite beaches.  Location: One mile past Hana, near mile marker 51, turn left on left onto Haneo’o Road.  

Traveling along the Road to Hana, you’ll have an up-close look at the true, natural beauty of Maui.  The road, which has 600 curves and 59 bridges, winds through lush tropical forests, scenic ravines and cascading waterfalls.  Ocean cliffs, lava coastlines and incredible black and white sand beaches line the way.  The road, which follows and ancient Hawaiian foot trail, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Hawaii luaus are an island tradition. To experience an unforgettable luau, reserve tickets to Chief’s Luau at Sea Life Park, held at one of Oahu’s most impressive locations. Views of towering cliffs, gorgeous ocean, a historic lighthouse and Rabbit Island surround guests, creating an environment perfect for enjoying a night of entertainment.

An evening at Chief’s Luau begins with interactive activities like hula lessons, lauhala weaving, tattooing (non-permanent), coconut husking, fire making and so much more. You can also watch the tradition Imu Ceremony, during which the main course of Kalua Pig is unearthed from a traditional Hawaiian Imu (underground oven). Before dinner starts, you can also participate in a Samoan ‘Ava Ceremony, a ritual during which a ceremonial beverage is shared marking the importance of this special event.

As the sun sets, the Hawaiian extravaganza that is Chief’s Luau starts. Chief Sielu, the world champion fire knife dancer, is the star of the show. Internationally known as “The Coconut Man” for his 20 years of work at the Polynesian Cultural Center, he also goes by the “Ambassador of Polynesia”and “That Polynesian Comedian.” He has appeared on David Letterman, Oprah Winfrey, Discovery Channel and Travel Channel. During the show at Sea Life Park, pulsating music, lyrical songs, breathtaking dancing and daring spectacles are featured on stage.

Of course, the luau feast is a highlight of any Oahu luauand the feast at Chief’s Luau is no exception.

The menu includes:

• Island Greens with Mandarin Oranges, Radish Sprouts, Crisp Rice Noodles, Citrus Dressing
• Seasonal Fruit Salad
• Lomi Lomi Salmon
• Taro Rolls
• Poi
• Steamed White
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes
• Grilled Island Fish with Papaya Marmalade
• Chicken Yakitori with Teriyaki Sauce
• Kalua Pork
• Pineapple Cake
• Coffee, hot tea, iced tea, fruit punch

Reserve your Chief’s Luau tickets today to experience one of Oahu’s most impressive shows. Round-trip transportation from major Waikiki hotels is available.

Want to experience life under the sea like never before?  Reserve a trip with Atlantis Adventures.  They take guests on spectacular submarine adventures in technologically advanced vessels to depths of 100 feet and beyond.  Plus, they have locations on the Big Island, Maui and Oahu. 

Want to know more about what an excursion with Atlantis Adventures is all about?  Read on:

Atlantis Adventures Big Island:

After a quick check-in (please check-in 30 minutes prior to your boarding time) at the Atlantis Submarine ticket office on Alii Drive, located across from the Kailua-Kona Pier, you’ll board a submarine and begin your adventure.  During your trip, you’ll explore the majestic waters off the Kailua-Kona Pier, a 25-acre natural coral reef and its marine inhabitants.  The best part is you view all of this in air-conditioned comfort and safety. Allow Atlantis Submarines to show you the other 96% of Kona you can't see any other way. You'll descend 100 feet into another version of paradise, ne hidden even from the people of Hawaii for centuries.

Atlantis Adventures Maui:

Check-in at the Atlantis Maui Logo Shop in Lahaina (about 30 minutes before departure) and begin your submarine adventure in Maui.  The Maui tour takes guests on an underwater discovery tour in the coastal waters surrounding Lahaina.  Guests view the unique fascinating natural coral reefs, fish and marine life in air-conditioned comfort and safety.  Atlantis Adventures recently created a unique underwater reef, too, as they sank a Carthaginian replica of a 19th century supply vessel.  This reed will have lasting marine benefit and is a real sight to see!

Atlantis Adventures Oahu:

You begin your trip excursion with Atlantis Adventures with a quick check-in at the Hilton Pier in front of the Hilton Hawaiian Village Alii Tower (30 minutes prior to boarding).  Then, you’ll board one of their 48 passenger submarines and head to the coastal waters surround Waikiki and Honolulu.  The Atlantis Waikiki dive site is home to many Hawaiian fishes, coral, and turtles. Known for its quality and safety, Atlantis is an eye-opening experience that takes you beyond the classroom as you learn about coral, reef life and submersibles while visiting our sunken shipwrecks, airplane and other artificial reefs. Atlantis has a spacious air-conditioned interior, large view ports and comfortable seating. If you haven't been to the bottom of the ocean before, this tour is a "must do!"

OAHU

May 1:  Lei Day Celebration

The 85^th annual Lei Day Celebration will be held at Queen Kapiolani Regional Park and Bandstand from 9am – 5:30pm. There will be local entertainment and hula halau. See colorful lei exhibits, learn how to make a lei, and how to hula. The event is free.

May 5-6:  7^th Annual Hawaii Book & Music Festival

This 2-day event includes national and local best-selling authors, author signings, music and hula, program on Hawaiian culture, and much more. Event runs 10am – 5pm both days and is being held at the Frank F. Fasi Civic Grounds in downtown Honolulu.

May 18:  Grand Tasting, Beachside Barbeque & Fashion Fusion

This event combines wine, food, and fashion. Chat with local winemakers and sample cuisine from local chefs. There will be a fashion show by local designer Valerie Joseph and entertainment by Sunway. Event runs 6-10pm. Tickets cost $100.

May 19-20:  Waikiki Artfest

See 80 of Hawaii's finest artists and handcraft artisans. There will be food, entertainment, and plenty of art and wares for sale at the Kapiolani Park at the Diamond Head end of Waikiki, across from the entrance to the Honolulu Zoo. The art fest is free and is open 9am – 4pm both days.

May 26:  Launa Aloha A Me Na Mele (Fellowship and Music)

The Mission Houses Museum will be having a limited seating musical performance in the Performance Garden, Kahua Ho‘okipa. Gates open at 6pm and music begins at 7pm. Reservations are required, cost is $30.

MAUI

May 19:  Taste of Makena

This is the annual fundraiser of the Rotary Club of Maui. Tickets cost $75 and include dishes from some of Maui’s best restaurants and wine tastings. The event is held Honua Kai Lani (Sugarman Estate) on the south shore. There will be live entertainment and a silent auction.

May 25-27:  Maui Fringe Festival

This 3-day theater marathon features performances around the clock from 6pm on Friday through Sunday. See a variety of one-act plays from around the globe. Tickets are $10 per performance.

BIG ISLAND

May 1:  May Day is Lei Day Festival

Celebrate Lei Day at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park with lei-making demonstrations, a ukulele band, and more.

May 12-13:  Kau Coffee Festival

This annual festival will feature a Miss Kau Coffee pageant, a hoolaulea honoring Kau coffee international awards, best coffee tasting, recipe contest, music and entertainment, farm tours, coffee demos and auction. Most of the events are free to attend and are held at the Community Center in Pahala.

May 19-28:  Puna Music Festival

This week-long music fest includes five major concerts plus workshops on songwriting, ukulele, drum making and more. Local schools and bands will also perform. Takes place at the Kalani Oceanside Retreat.

KAUAI

May 12:  May Day by the Bay

From 9am – 6pm enjoy music, hula, demonstrations, food, and crafts at Hanalei Bay. This is a great event to experience Hawaiian culture.

May 24-27:  Kauai Polynesian Festival

The Kamanawa Foundation presents the 11th annual Kauai Polynesian Festival at the Vidinha Stadium soccer field. Just some of the activities include a Polynesian Farmer’s Market, solo and group dance competitions, Hawaiian games, food booths, workshops, and water slides. Entrance fee is $10 per day or $35 for four days.