If you love to travel, chances are Hawaii is on your bucket list. In fact, the nation’s 50th state is considered the top vacation destination among American tourists. It’s a tropical paradise renowned for beautiful beaches, lush rainforests and stellar surfing. There are numerous exotic locations and breath-taking vistas scattered amongst Hawaii’s 137 islands, but here are three of the state’s must-see sites.
1. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Hawaii boasts a landscape like no other state, and the best place to witness the beautiful scenery is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Located on the Big Island, the park includes the summits of Kilauea and Mauna Loa, both active volcanoes, and lucky visitors may even get to see an active lava flow. Hiking opportunities abound with miles of lava tubes, sulfur banks and steam vents to explore. One of the most popular hikes leads to Pu’uloa, a sacred archeological site known for its ancient petroglyphs.
2. Na Pali Coast
One of the best ways to experience the Hawaiian landscape is by boat. A favorite activity among visitors, especially those with vacation accomodations Hanalei HI, is to sail along the Na Pali coast to take in the striking scenes of coastal cliffs and caves, natural arches, waterfalls and 16 miles of undeveloped coastline. It’s also a great opportunity to view wildlife such as Hawaiian monk seals, humpback whales and dolphins.
3. Punaluu Black Sand Beach
Hawaii is famous for its black sand beaches, and one of the best places to experience it is at Punaluu. Not far from Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the beach is located on the Big Island’s southeastern shore. While it’s not the place you’d want to go swimming, there’s no better spot for a picnic than the jet-black shoreline. It’s also a favorite basking site of the island’s famous green sea turtles.
Hawaii is renowned for its promise of fun under the sun. These three locations are just a few of the reasons the state is such a beloved tourist destination.