When it comes to natural beauty and adventure, Hawaii is a paradise on earth. The tropical archipelago is known for its lush green mountains, stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and unique flora and fauna. Hawaii comprises several islands, each with its own charm and attraction. In this article, we will take a closer look at the 8 largest islands in Hawaii, what makes them unique, and what you can expect when visiting them.
1. Introduction
Hawaii is the 50th state of the United States and consists of eight major islands, several atolls, and numerous smaller islets. The eight major islands are Hawaii, Maui, Oahu, Kauai, Molokai, Lanai, Niihau, and Kahoolawe. Each island has its own unique character and charm, and together they form an archipelago that is a magnet for tourists from all over the world.
2. Hawaii: The Big Island
The largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago is known as Hawaii, or the Big Island. With an area of 4,028 square miles, it is almost twice the size of all the other Hawaiian islands combined. The Big Island is home to some of the most active volcanoes in the world, including Kilauea and Mauna Loa, which attract millions of visitors each year. The island is also known for its stunning beaches, waterfalls, and scenic drives.
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3. Maui: The Valley Isle
Maui is the second-largest island in Hawaii and is known as the Valley Isle due to the large valley that runs between its two major volcanoes. The island is a popular destination for tourists due to its stunning beaches, whale-watching opportunities, and scenic drives along the Road to Hana. Maui is also home to the famous Haleakala National Park, which is home to the world’s largest dormant volcano.
4. Oahu: The Gathering Place
Oahu is the third-largest island in Hawaii and is known as the Gathering Place due to its popularity among tourists and locals alike. The island is home to Honolulu, the state capital, and is famous for its vibrant nightlife, shopping, and dining scene. Oahu is also home to several iconic attractions such as Pearl Harbor, the Diamond Head crater, and the North Shore, which is a surfing mecca.
5. Kauai: The Garden Island
Kauai is the fourth-largest island in Hawaii and is known as the Garden Island due to its lush vegetation and stunning natural beauty. The island is home to several iconic attractions such as the Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, and the Fern Grotto. Kauai is also a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers due to its many trails and stunning vistas.
6. Molokai: The Friendly Isle
Molokai is the fifth-largest island in Hawaii and is known as the Friendly Isle due to its laid-back and relaxed atmosphere. The island is home to several small towns and villages and is a popular destination for those looking for a more authentic Hawaiian experience. Molokai is also home to the Kalaupapa National Historical Park, which is a former leper colony.
7. Lanai: The Pineapple Isle
Lanai is the sixth-largest island in Hawaii and is known as the Pineapple Isle due to its history as a major pineapple producer. The island is home to the Lanai City, which is a small town that offers visitors a glimpse into the island’s unique culture and history. Lanai is also famous for its stunning beaches, luxury resorts, and world-class golf courses.
8. Niihau: The Forbidden Island
Niihau is the seventh-largest island in Hawaii and is known as the Forbidden Island due to its restricted access to outsiders. The island is privately owned by the Robinson family and is home to a small community of Native Hawaiians who preserve their traditional way of life. While visitors are not allowed on the island, they can enjoy a scenic helicopter tour that offers a glimpse of the island’s stunning coastline.
9. Kahoolawe: The Target Isle
Kahoolawe is the smallest of the eight major Hawaiian islands and is known as the Target Isle due to its history as a bombing range for the US military. The island was used for target practice and bombing exercises for several decades until the 1990s when it was finally returned to the state of Hawaii. Today, Kahoolawe is a protected reserve and is not open to the public except for guided tours.
Conclusion
Hawaii is a stunning archipelago that offers something for everyone. The eight major islands each have their own unique character and charm, from the active volcanoes of the Big Island to the stunning beaches of Maui, and the bustling city life of Oahu to the laid-back atmosphere of Molokai. No matter which island you choose to visit, you are sure to be captivated by the beauty and magic of this tropical paradise.
FAQs
- Which is the largest island in Hawaii?
- The largest island in Hawaii is the island of Hawaii, also known as the Big Island.
- Can you visit Kahoolawe?
- Kahoolawe is a protected reserve and is not open to the public except for guided tours.
- Which island in Hawaii is known as the Gathering Place?
- Oahu is known as the Gathering Place due to its popularity among tourists and locals alike.
- Which island in Hawaii is known as the Garden Island?
- Kauai is known as the Garden Island due to its lush vegetation and stunning natural beauty.
- Which island in Hawaii is known as the Friendly Isle?
- Molokai is known as the Friendly Isle due to its laid-back and relaxed atmosphere.