Formed from past and current volcanic activity, Hawaii is a stunning five-hundred-mile-long archipelago in the southern part of the Pacific Ocean. Made up of six major islands, it's one of the most isolated groupings of land on earth and is considered by many to be an almost perfect destination.
Travelling to Hawaii involves a fairly lengthy flight, however the diversity of experiences on offer once there makes it a perfect choice and is popular for many types of travellers, including honeymooners, families, golfers, water sports enthusiasts, shopaholics and foodies.
Enjoy a luxury holiday to Hawaii with Elegant Resorts and you'll find it rich in culture and history, and amazing scenery that includes snow-capped mountains, giant waterfalls, dense jungles, lush rainforests, lava fields, beaches of white, black and even green sand and the most active volcano on earth, Kilauea. Polynesian culture, known as the ‘aloha spirit’, evolved from ancient sacred legends and chronicles of the people, prevails throughout the islands, as do many of the customs, such as the bestowing of floral 'leis' (or necklaces) alongside unique dances (hula) and music (ukulele), but each island has its own flavour and attractions.
Hawaii, the 'Big Island', is just that; larger than all the other islands put together, this is nature at her most magnificent and diverse, and is home to eleven of thirteen climate zones as well as deserts, rainforests, snow-capped mountains and five volcanoes, of which, Mauna Loa and Kilauea are still active. Activities are endless here; travel by foot, bike, helicopter or glass-bottom boat to a host of spectacular scenic or historical locations, including acres of stark lava fields; enjoy world-class golf, shop for local crafts or designer accessories or treat your tastebuds to some local delicacies.
The tiny island of Lana'i is unspoilt and uncrowded. Its spectacular stretches of red lava cliffs contrast with white-sand beaches and an island interior of mist-covered forested mountains. There are many historical places of interest to visit, as well as traditional fishing villages and tropical gardens, while Lana'i City is good for shopping.
Of all the Hawaiian Islands, Oahu is perhaps the most beautiful. Historically, Oahu was the meeting place for Hawaii's most influential chiefs and royalty, and its name translates to mean 'the gathering place'. Today, Oahu is known for its vibrant cities, Waikiki and Honolulu, Pearl Harbour and numerous world-class surfing competitions.
Maui is the picturesque tropical paradise that the very name, Hawaii conjures up. Home to over eighty sun-drenched beaches, lush rainforests, elegant palm trees, crystal-clear ocean waters and magnificent waterfalls, it boasts endless opportunities to delight and inspire the imagination. Visit ancient sites, including the Lao Needle and Seven Sacred Pools, hike down into a volcano, scuba or snuba-dive in the warm waters of the ocean, enjoy the fruits of a vineyard or marvel at a beautiful sunset.