Step off the plane and it's as if the volume on your senses has been turned up. Smell the fresh plumeria in the air. See sapphire seas, emerald valleys, and halos of rainbow arches. Feel the warm radiance of the sun on your cheeks while a cool rush of ocean water sucks the sand from between your toes.

It's no secret that the Islands of Aloha are a scenic paradise for the senses, but an exploration of the rich cultural history of the Hawaiian people makes your first visit to the islands even richer. With so much to experience, you'll find the warm embrace of Hawaii waiting for you on your second visit and beyond.

6 Things To Do on Your First Trip to Hawaii:

• Enjoy the stunning scenery from various points along Kauai's Napali Coast.
• Visit the USS Arizona and USS Missouri memorials in Oahu's Pearl Harbor.
• Take a mule ride down to the Kalaupapa Peninsula on Molokai.
• Drive the Munro Trail on Lanai for incredible views.
• Take the long, winding, scenic road to Hana on Maui.
• View the active Kilauea Volcano at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on Hawaii's Big Island.

Hawaii Is Like No Other Place On Earth
Home to one of the world’s most active volcanoes and the world’s tallest sea mountain. Birthplace of surfing and the hula. Former seat of a royal kingdom. Hawaii is one of the youngest geological formations in the world and the youngest state of the union. But perhaps Hawaii’s most unique feature is its Aloha Spirit: the warmth of the people of Hawaii that wonderfully complements the Islands’ perfect temperatures.

There are primarily six major islands to visit in Hawaii: Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, and Hawaii’s Big island. You’ll find each island has its own distinct personality and offers its own adventures, activities, and sightseeing opportunities. We invite you to explore all of Hawaii to find the unique island experience for you.

Hawaii Quick Facts:

• Kauai's incredible Waimea Canyon is 10 miles long, and one mile wide.
• Duke Kahanamoku, the "Father of Modern Surfing," grew up in Waikiki on Oahu.
• The tallest sea cliffs in the world can be found on Molokai's north side.
• A hulking ship is still trapped in the waters of Shipwreck Beach on Lanai.
• The crater of Haleakala on Maui is roughly the size of the island of Manhattan.
• Kileaua Volcano in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on Hawaii's Big Island is the world's most active volcano.

State Name:

Hawaii

State Nickname:

The Aloha State

Capital City:

Honolulu

Population:

1,262,840

Time Zone:

Hawaii Standard Time (GMT-10 hours), 5 hours behind the US East Coast, 6 hours behind during Daylight Saving Time (Hawaii does not observe Daylight Saving Time).

Languages:

English
Hawaiian

Currency:

US dollar. Credit cards are widely accepted. Traveler's checks are accepted at many businesses.

Average Temperature:

April- November: 75˚-88˚ F.
December- March: 68˚-80˚ F.
Average water temperature: 74˚ F.

Area Code/Cell phones:

The area code for all of Hawaii is (808). Cell phone coverage on most Islands is readily available if you're coming from the US. Check your carrier and calling plan for details.

Internet Access:

Internet access is readily available on most islands and at many hotels.

Accommodations:

Luxury resorts, hotels, bed and breakfasts, rental cottages and condos are located throughout the islands.

Transportation:

Transportation options include car rentals, tour buses, shuttles, taxis or city buses.

Clothing:

Dress casually. Bring a light jacket for nights. Bring semi-casual dress clothes or resort wear for restaurants and nightlife. Suits and ties are rarely worn.

Tipping:

U.S. standards apply: 15-20% on meals, at least $1 per bag for porters, and at least $1 per night for housekeeping.