This blog post was updated on September 21, 2022.
Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful natural wonders that the United States has to offer is the Hawaiian Islands. Birthplace of surfing, the hula dance, and delectable cuisine, it’s also home to the only royal palace on US soil, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, and the world’s tallest sea mountain! It’s no surprise that the US’s youngest member has become a haven for all sorts of travelers: from luxurious honeymooners and organic farmers to families looking to chill. It certainly makes sense, as the Hawaiian Islands offer vacationing Americans a way to experience a tropical escape without the hassle of toting around passports or exchanging money.
So how can we mainlanders authentically experience the islands? Here are our top ways to go deeper and experience Hawaii with its past, present, and future in mind!
Read a Good Book
First things first: If you want to have a deeper understanding of a place, you should read up on its political, geographical, and cultural history. And Hawaiian history doesn’t disappoint. Spanning back almost 1,500 years, Hawaii has been divided, united, colonized, independent — you name it. Take a moment to appreciate the depth of the place you want to visit. Head to the tourism site for a quick history lesson or dive deeper with books like A Concise History of the Hawaiian Islands by Phil Barnes or Hawaii Pono: An Ethnic and Political History by Lawrence H. Fuchs. If fiction suits you better, check out the works of local writers like Chris McKinney’s The Tattoo, one of Darien Gee’s many memoirs, or Lisa Linn Kanae’s Sista Tongue.
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Know Where You Want to Go
There are six major islands you can visit in Hawaii and each has its own vibe and history. There is Kauai, best known as the oldest and most northern island in the chain, which is home to Waimea Canyon — “the Grand Canyon of the Pacific” — as well as stunning dramatic cliffs that call to the most adventurous visitors. Oahu owns the state’s capital and much of its population. It’s the best place to go to see how island traditions have fused with modernity, thanks to the island’s music, arts, and food scenes. With nearly half of Molokai’s population having Native Hawaiian ancestry, this laid-back land is very connected to both its history and natural resources: don’t forget to explore the island’s past and present in Kalaupapa National Historical Park. Lanai doesn’t have a single traffic light on sight, yet it’s home to some of the world’s most luxurious resorts due to the island’s secluded nature. Visit the Garden of the Gods rock garden and read up on the folklore surrounding this otherworldly setting!
Maui is the second-largest of the islands and home to some of the world’s best surfing beaches, whale watching, and natural vistas. Hawaii Island — or the Big Island — is indeed larger than all of the other islands combined. Better yet, it’s large and diverse enough to hold 11 of the world’s 13 climatic zones — from warm beaches to icy peaks and active volcanoes!
Leave Your Cell Phone, Watch, and Pager Behind
Enjoy a slower pace without worrying about cramming in a million must-see landmarks, resort-organized activities, or self-imposed expectations. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach in the morning. Pop into local coffee shops and stores in the afternoon and take a bite of island life. Take a hike, a swim, or relax by the sea to really soak up the island state of mind.
Go Local for Local Information
When you’re at home, how do you usually find out what’s going on? Whether you scan through the newspaper, check out a local magazine’s site, or just ask around, do the same thing when you travel to get the local beat of what’s going on! Head to local farmer’s markets, churches, and other organizations to get a real feel of Hawaiian vibes.
Embrace the Idea of Aloha
Yes, it means more than just hello and goodbye! It also exemplifies love and an understanding that the world and its inhabitants are each a part of you. So as you travel to the islands, keep the notion of aloha in your mind from the moment you book cheap flights to Hawaii. Maybe this will manifest in keeping the beaches that you visit clean, shopping at local businesses, or simply giving a smile and a wave to those you encounter.
Are you from Hawaii or have spent a significant amount of time there? Tell us in the comments how you’d encourage visitors to get to know the Hawaii that you love!
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