The "Aloha State" may be part of the US, but with its rich infusion of Polynesian and Asian heritage, you're culturally as well as geographically (the islands lie 2,400 miles off the coast of California) a long way from the rest of the Union. Hawaii has seven inhabited islands, all unique but distinctly, well, Hawaiian.
Its most southerly is also its largest, aptly named the Big Island, and is nearly twice the size of all the others combined. The island is home to the astonishing Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a moonscape of cinder cones and solid rivers of lava. It's also the site of two volcanic world-beaters; Kilauea, the world's most active and Mauna, its largest.
But not wanting to be classed as a one-trick isle, the Big Island also boasts deserts on its dry western side and lush rainforests in the east. The island also features a fascinating slice of Hawaiian history, the 1500 year old Mookini Heiau temple. The stone edifice is sited on the Kohala coast, near the tranquil luxury of Hilton's Waikoloa Village Resort. The coast is also home to some more friendly Hawaiian residents - the gentle Waikoloa dolphins.
A spot of island-hopping to the north and you're on Maui. Here you can relax on some of Hawaii's best beaches such as Kapalua in the northwest of the island. Just down the coast are the resorts of Kaanapali and Lahaina, where golden sands are complemented by some excellent restaurants and bars where you can sit and watch sunsets to die for. Back on the volcanic record books, head southeast to see the world's largest dormant specimen - Haleakala.
Another jump and its Aloha to Lanai. Here marvel at nature at is rawest at the impressively monikered, Garden of the Gods - another rugged moonscape etched by millions of years of volcanic activities. With a population of less than 3000 - mostly found in the vicinity of Lanai City, the island is definitely a place for solitude.
Lanai's neighbour, Molokai is equally as unhurried and stunning. Featuring yet another global natural wonder - this time the world's tallest sea cliffs on the island's north shore. Also decidedly worth an excursion is the Kalaupapa Peninsula and National Historic Park, with sure-footed mules the favoured transport.
No Hawaiian guide would of course be complete without mention of its title of Surf Capital of the World. Catch a wave to Oahu, the next stop up the archipelago. The name you'll recognise is Waikiki, a lively beach which stretches from Diamond Head to Hawaii's Capital, Honolulu. After hitting the surf, its definitely party-time when the sun goes down on Waikiki and Honolulu. Cuisine is heavily influenced by Asian culture, including a bustling Chinatown. For the best in local culture ask at your hotel for the most authentic Luau and Hawaiian gastronomic experience. Generic tourist shows are fun at first, but for the more experienced traveller, can seem commercialised at best. Close to the capital, take a good pair of shoes to walk up Diamond Head crater. Or if you want to see the view from the comfort of your sun-lounger, book a room at Hilton's Hawaiian Village Beach Resort - set in a tranquil beachfront lagoon. Other highlights in Hawaii's Capital include the US's only official royal residence, the Iolani Palace and the fascinating Polynesian Cultural Centre. Just north of Honolulu is Hawaii's and arguably America's most emotive memorial - Pearl Harbor. Here you can stand on the deck of the USS Arizona - tomb for the 1177 troops who died when their ship was bombed and sank on 7 December 1941.
The final northerly link in the Hawaiian chain is the so-called Garden Island, Kauai. Not to be outdone by its fellow isles, Kauai is home to one of the wettest places on earth, Mount Waialeale, as well as the astonishing Waimea Canyon - dubbed the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. And of course beautiful beaches are never too far away just to sit back and take in the splendour of it all.
So if your looking for nature at it most stunning and an Aloha welcome at its most friendly, it is no exaggeration to say when it comes to Hawaii, you've got the best of both worlds.
Andrew Morris is a UK-based freelance journalist, travel writer and editor who has been published internationally in both newspapers and magazines as well as online.
www.aboutyourworld.com
© Andrew Morris 2005
When To Go?
There is not a great deal of difference in the seasons temperature-wise (average 25 degrees) although rainfall is slightly higher in December and January.
There is more climatic variation between the different islands, depending on their geography. Pack sensibly, if you do plan to take a trip to wet areas like Mount Waialeale on Kauai.
Peak season is between Christmas and Easter and then between late June and end of August when most US tourists visit.
What Currency?
The US dollar is the official currency, with Japanese Yen the only other currency that will be accepted in some larger shops and hotels in Oahu.
Always have enough cash, as some of the smaller shops and restaurants off the beaten track may not accept credit cards.
What To Speak?
Hawaiian and English are the two official languages, although English is far more widely spoken.
Asian tongues such as Japanese, Vietnamese and Chinese can also be heard especially in Honolulu.
Swim with the Waikoloa dolphins in the warm waters of the Hilton Waikoloa Village® dolphin lagoon - a unique experience.
Take an excursion on the high-tech Atlantis Submarine, based at the Hilton Hawaiian Village® Beach Resort & Spa.
Hawaii may be 'Surf Capital of the World', but there are also Hiltons in other great surfing destinations, such as Barbados.
