HAWAIIAN ISLANDS ITINERARIES
Hawaii is a beautiful tropical vacation hot spot unlike any other in the world. From its steep valleys, rainforests and hiking trails to gorgeous beaches, it continues each year as one of the world's best destinations.
A few interesting facts about Hawaii:
The astronomical site on the Big Island (Mauna Kea Observatory) has become one of the most important in the world because of its outstanding observational conditions.
Hawaii sometimes has vog instead of smog. Vog is hazy air pollution from Kīlauea volcano’s gases. It can drift to other islands. Vog is NOT harmful but can bother people with asthma or breathing problems.
It’s the only U.S. state that grows coffee commercially.
The island does NOT have any native snake species and it is illegal to own one as a pet.
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1. Can you see hump whales in Hawaii?
Winter (Late November to March) is when the humpback whales migrate to Hawaii. It’s a spectacular time to see these massive creatures splashing about in the waters surrounding the Islands. Best bet to see them is a whale cruise. Maui is the best island to spot them. Bring binoculars.
2.Is there a monsoon season in Hawaii?
NO, Hawaii does not get monsoons. You might get a huge storm every few years, but normally it gets less rain than Seattle or New England annually. It rarely rains all day, plus the “rainy season” isn’t too much rainier than the rest of the year. November to March is typically Hawaii’s wettest months. If there are hurricanes, which is NOT often, the time is usually late August through November.
3. Can I bring pineapples back from Hawaii?
Pineapples and some fruits and flowers from markets are allowed only if they’re agriculturally APPROVED at the airport. You can buy boxed pineapple and other packaged goods in shops across Hawaii, but you don’t have to buy the airport box. All luggage is scanned for agricultural items.
4.How far is Hawaii from the USA? What is the time difference in Hawaii?
Hawaii is a 10-hour non-stop flight from New York and about a 5-hour flight from California.
Hawaii does not observe Daylight Savings Time.
The time difference is 5 hrs. in winter and 6 hrs. in summer behind the U.S. East Coast.
5.Some of the hiking trails are red sand dirt. Do they stain clothes?
Red dirt stains easily. Don’t bring items you care about on hikes. To remove a stain, rub in liquid dish soap and leave it overnight. Then soak the item in a few inches of hydrogen peroxide in a bucket overnight, and wash as usual.
6. Which island is the active volcano on?
The Big Island is the only island with an active volcano. You can visit Hawaii Volcano National Park to view the amazing volcanic landscape.
7. Where is Pearl Harbor - and how can I visit the site of the Dec. 7, 1941 attack by the Japanese on the U.S. Navy?
—Pearl Harbor is on Oahu, just west of HNL Airport. Located at Pearl Harbor are the USS Arizona and USS Missouri.
How do I get from Waikiki to Pearl Harbor without a car?
—Take the #42 or the #20 busfrom Waikiki and the bus will drive drop you off at the Pearl Harbor entrance. Bus stop: Arizona Memorial
8. Are there sharks in the waters of Hawaii?
Yes, there are sharks in Hawaii. About eight (8) species are commonly seen near the shore. Most common are the sandbar, scalloped hammerhead, reef whitetip and tiger shark. News of shark attacks tends to make headlines in many major newspapers and in the broadcast media. However, a shark attack in Hawaii is very rare.
How to reduce odds of being attacked by a shark:
Always stay in groups since sharks are more likely to bite a solitary individual.
Do not wander too far from shore-this isolates an individual and places him or her far away from assistance.
Avoid being in the water during darkness or twilight hours when sharks are most active.
9. Where are the best surfing spots on Oahu?
Oahu is the proverbial heartbeat of surfing in Hawaii. The island’s North Shore is the place.
Puaena Point- Located next to Haleiwa Beach Park, Puaena Point is a great spot to catch your first wave.
Chun’s Reef - Also located outside of Haleiwa, Chun’s Reef has ideal conditions for learning.
Laniakea Beach (aka Turtle Beach) - Named after the sea turtles that come to shore here, Turtle Beach.
Always consult with a professional to make your experience as safe as possible.
10. Do I need a reservation for Haena Beach Park on the island of Kauai ?
Advance reservations are now required for all vehicles, walk-in entry, and shuttle riders visiting Hāʻena State Park.
Day-use Parking and Entry Reservations are available 30-days in advance. <Details>