People head to the Aloha State for the beaches, but there are many other attractions to explore in Hawaii. The islands are always prepared to show off marine creatures and unusual wildlife. Spectacles like an active volcano and ancient caverns are attractions that most guests cannot resist. Those interested in Hawaii's captivating history have many opportunities to learn about it firsthand.
The Maui Ocean Center offers a unique view of marine life as visitors trek through a thick acrylic tube. Coral reefs are on display while Hawaii's sea creatures swim by in the open ocean tank.
On the island of Kauai, a number of cruises are available for dolphin watching. Adventurers can choose a six- to seven-hour cruise to "the forbidden island" of Niihau (see Resources). For others, a sunset cruise is a picture perfect ending to a day in Hawaii.
To commune with wildlife, tourists can visit Kilauea Point Wildlife Refuge on Kauai's north shore. Albatrosses and other sea birds combine with plants and animals to complete a perfect Hawaiian scene.
The Panaewa Rainforest Zoo on the big island houses tigers and mongooses along with native endangered birds, such as the Hawaiian coot and Laysan ducks.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the big island features Kilauea, the most active volcano in the world. Visitors can watch while lava blasts from deep inside the earth. Hiking on Devastation Trail through a charred forest is spooky fun for children. Guests can also visit the 450-foot-long Thurston Lava Tube to experience a deeper view into the lava.
Lovers of geographical formations can visit the Ka'eleku Caverns on Maui to see the stalactites and stalagmites in primitive underground caves.
Hawaii has an interesting history, especially in the town of Kalaupapa in Molokai. Here patients with leprosy lived as outcasts. In 1886, workers built a path to deliver supplies to the sufferers. Visitors today can ride a mule down the path to tour the area where the lepers lived and struggled.
In Maui, history buffs can tour the notorious Old Lahaina Prison from back in the whaling days, where drunken sailors and deserters endured uncomfortable prison conditions.
