Hawaii - USA

Categories: [North America] [Sea]
Links/source: www.gohawaii.com, www.wikipedia.org
Last update: October 23, 2007.
Number of views: 443931

Hawaii LOCATION

• is separated from the mainland by water, yet is not a territory


• is completely surrounded by water


• continues to grow in area because of active extrusive lava flows, most notably from Kilauea (Kīlauea).


• is entirely in the tropics.

All of the Hawaiian Islands were formed by volcanoes arising from the sea floor from a magma source described in geological theory as a hotspot. The theory maintains that as the tectonic plate beneath much of the Pacific Ocean moves in a northwesterly direction, the hot spot remains stationary, slowly creating new volcanoes. This explains why only volcanoes on the southern half of the Big Island, and the Loihi Seamount deep below the waters off its southern coast, are presently active, with Loihi being the newest volcano to form. The last volcanic eruption outside the Big Island happened at Haleakala (Haleakalā) on Maui in the late 18th century (though recent research suggests that Haleakala's most recent eruptive activity could be hundreds of years older). The volcanic activity and subsequent erosion created impressive geological features. The Big Island is notable as the world’s fifth highest island. Because of the islands' volcanic formation, native life before human activity is said to have arrived by the "3 W's": wind (carried through the air), waves (brought by ocean currents), and wings (birds, insects, and whatever they brought with them). The isolation of the Hawaiian Islands in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, and the wide range of environments to be found on high islands located in and near the tropic, has resulted in a vast array of endemic flora and fauna. Hawaii has more endangered species per square mile and has lost a higher percent of its endemic species than anywhere else on Earth.

Hawaii Maps & Islands

Hawaii MAPS

KAUAI

From the soaring cliffs of the Napali Coast to the vast chasms of Waimea Canyon, Kauai enchants the senses like no other island.

Plunging ravines. Cascading waterfalls. Unforgettable cliffs, canyons, beaches, and bays. “The Island of Discovery,” begs to be discovered.

What can I do on Kauai?

• Hike up Waimea Canyon for stunning views of the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”
• Take a helicopter ride along the 3000-foot cliffs of the Napali coast
• Kayak down the Wailua River. Kauai has the only navigable rivers in Hawaii.

OAHU

The timeless, natural radiance oh the isladnds meets the modern luxuries of today, on Oahu. Hike down a lush mountainside, just minutes away from a soaring cityscape. Feast at a luau under the stars one night, dine at a five-star restaurant another. Sunbathe all day on the North Shore then dance all night in Waikiki. There’s no shortage of things to do on Oahu.

• Take a surfing lesson on Waikiki Beach
• Watch world-class surfers charge the big waves on the North Shore
• Pay your respects at the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor
• Marvel at the American Florentine architecture of Iolani Palace
• Dress up and experience downtown nightlife and art galleries

MOLOKAI

Molokai is only 38 miles long and 10 miles wide, but it's home to the tallest sea cliffs in the world. These towering cliffs along Molokai's north coast stand up to 3,600 feet high and are one of the most breathtaking sights in Hawaii.

This is an island that stays true to its Hawaiian traditions. Outdoor adventures are more personal here, tucked away from the stress of the outside world. Get back to nature and find tranquility on Molokai.

• Hike through the breathtaking Halawa Valley
• Take a memorable mule ride through Kalaupapa National Historical Park and learn about the selfless acts of Father Damien
• Boat out to see the world’s tallest sea cliffs (3600 feet) along the North Shore

LANAI

Vizit Lanai and you will discover an idyllic romanitic setting with the privacy you can only find on “Hawaii’s Most Enticing Island.”

Discover two luxurious resorts, two championship golf-courses, and outdoor adventures unique to Lanai’s distinctive landscapes. If you want to get away from it all, get away to Lanai.

• Four-wheel drive to the lunar landscapes of Keahiakawelo, the "Garden of the Gods"
• See the spinner dolphins in Hulopoe Bay
• Tee up at two championship golf courses: The Challenge at Manele and The Experience at Koele
• Hike up to Munro Trail for views of neighboring islands Maui, Molokai, Kahoolawe, Oahu, and Hawaii’s Big island

MAUI

Watch a humpback whale breach the sea. Tee off at a championship golf course. Voted “Best Pacific Island,” by readers of Conde Naste Traveler, Maui does not disappoint.

From the summit of Haleakala Crater to the shore of Big Beach in Makena, Maui has a breadth of exhilarating outdoor sights, activities, and entertainment for every visitor. 
 

• Watch the sunrise atop the 10,000-foot Haleakala Crater
• Spot a humpback whale on a whale watching excursion
• Drive up the scenic, 53-mile Hana highway
• Snap a picture of striking Iao Needle in Iao Valley
• Spend a day browsing the museums, shops, and restaurants of Lahaina

BIG ISLAND

Famous for the active Kilauea volcano, Hawaii’s Big Island is home to a list of fascinating anomalies.

Eleven different climate zones generate everything from lush rain forests to arid deserts, black sand beaches to snow-capped mountaintops. The Big Island is Hawaii’s biggest playground.

• See molten lava flow at Kilauea volcano in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
• Play in the snow atop Mauna Kea, the world’s tallest mountain (measured from the ocean floor)
   
• Hike through Waipio Valley, the “Valley of the Kings”
• Explore Puukohola Heiau, the largest restored ancient Hawaiian religious temple
• Enjoy the entertainment, culture, and cuisine in Hilo and Kailua-Kona

Hawaii video

Hawaii Images

Hawaii Wallpapers 1600x1200, 1024x768

Kauai Valley 1600 x 1200 Size: 356,31 KB	Kalalau Valley Kauai 1600 x 1200 Size: 403,29 KB	1024 x 768 Size: 528,9 KB	1024 x 768 Size: 546,3 KB