Some of the world’s most active volcanoes are in Hawaii. There are important historical sites that bring to life the cultural, historical, and environmental forces which helped shape Hawaii. Hawaii is a unique place on Earth. It is easy to get lost in the islands ‘ beauty as you view the glimmering Pacific Ocean, the emerald valleys, and the golden sands of miles of beach.
Hawaii consists of six major islands: Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, and Hawaii. Each island has its distinct personality, adventures, activities, and sights.
Kauai – The northernmost island, Kauai is the oldest. The island of Kauai is covered in emerald valleys, sharp mountain spires, and jagged cliffs, all aged by time and the elements.
Oahu – Oahu is home to the majority of Hawaii’s diverse population. It is the third largest and is a mixture of Eastern and Western cultures and is deep-seated in the values and traditions of the Native Hawaiian people.
Molokai – Molokai is 38 miles long and 10 miles across at its widest point and is the fifth largest. Molokai has sea cliffs which are the highest in the world. There is also the longest continuous fringing reef.
Lanai – Lanai offers big enticements to its visitors. Lanai is the smallest island. It is nine miles from Maui, yet when you get there, it may seem that you’re a world away. The first world can be found in the resorts where visitors enjoy top-of-the-line amenities and play championship golf. The other world can be found along the island’s rugged back roads.
Maui – Known also as “The Valley Isle,” is the second largest. The island is world-renowned for its beaches, the sacred Iao Valley, and humpback whales (during winter months). The cuisine is farm-to-table cuisine and has a magnificent view of the sunrise and sunset from Haleakala.
Hawaii – Nearly twice the size of all the other islands combined, Hawaii is the youngest. Its nickname is the “Big Island,” and its sheer size is awe-inspiring.
Climate and Seasons in Hawaii
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Climate and Seasons The weather in the Hawaiian Islands is consistent, with only minor changes in temperature. The temperatures are so comfortable that there are only two seasons in Hawaii, summer (May to October) and winter (November to April). The temperatures at night are approximately 10°F lower than in the daytime. Each island is a collection of different micro-environments with its unique weather, plants, and animals. Because the volcanic mountains have a shielding effect, there are differences in the weather at different elevations. There are rainforests, cool alpine regions, sunny beaches, and arid deserts, all within a few miles of each other. |
Average Temperature 85℉ Seasonal Temperatures
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November to March are the wettest months. The winter rains do not generally disrupt visitors’ plans since the weather is very localized. This means that if it is raining where you are, there is almost always a sunny spot to be found around the coast.
More to Explore in Hawaii
There are breathtaking sights at every turn. Visitors can witness nature’s power at Hawaii’s national parks, tour unique museums, or find the perfect beach. Adventure can be found by surfing the gentle waves at Waikiki Beach or snorkeling with stingrays off the Kona Coast. The Hawaiian Islands provide opportunities from exploring a volcano to chilling and relaxing on a beach.
Golf On the Island
Golfing on the island provides one-of-a-kind signature holes on a championship-caliber course. While golfing, there will be breathtaking scenery. Golfers at every skill level from around the world are drawn to Hawaii. Discover unforgettable golf courses throughout the islands. There are greens lined with black volcanic rough and seaside water hazards with a stunning view. And with more than 70 golf courses, it won’t be challenging to find the perfect course.
Outdoor Fun
Family (Ohana) is vital in Hawaiian culture, making their islands a friendly destination for kids (of all ages). There are hundreds of miles of pristine, unpolluted coastline and Hawaii’s beaches are postcards that come to life. Whichever kind of beach fits your version of paradise, you’ll find it in Hawaii. You can swim, pet a sea lion, learn to surf, or see humpback whales leap out of the water, snorkeling, horseback riding on the beach, exploring volcanos, or visiting sacred cultural sites. The Hawaiian Islands are a playground you will never outgrow.
Museums
Beyond the beach, unique museums and attractions will bring you closer to understanding Hawaii’s culture.
- Oahu – The Bishop Museum was founded in 1889. The Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum is a natural and cultural history institution of the Pacific region and houses more than 24 million cultural and natural treasures from Hawaii and Polynesia.
- Kauai Museum – The Kauai Museum is the cultural Sanctuary for the art and artifacts of Native Hawaiians, and it nurtures the creative spirit of today’s artists.
- Kokee Museum – Kokee Museum is a visitor center for Waimea Canyon & Kōkeʻe State Parks and the historic CCC Camp as a volunteer and research field station.
- S. Army Museum of Hawaii -The U.S. Army Museum Of Hawaii is a 1911 coastal defense battery. There are military memorabilia from the early Hawaiian period through the Vietnam War and a Gallery of Heroes honoring Medal of Honor and Distinguished Service Cross recipients.
- USS Bowfin Submarine Museum – The USS Bowfin (SS-287), a fleet attack submarine, fought during WWII in the Pacific. It helped to coin the term “Silent Service.” The Bowfin was launched on December 7th, 1942, one year after the attack on Pearl Harbor. She was nicknamed the Pearl Harbor Avenger, so her permanent home should be at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.
PLACES TO SEE
Pearl Harbor Memorial
The memorials at Pearl Harbor are historical landmarks that commemorate December 7th, 1941. Hawaii’s top visitor destination is The USS Arizona Memorial. There have been over two million visitors a year. While this may be a somber destination, you won’t regret your visit.
Iolani Palace State Monument
Built in 1882 by King Kalakaua, Iolani Palace was home to Hawaii’s last reigning monarchs and is registered as a National Historic Landmark.
The Mauna Kea Summit
The Mauna Kea is a dormant volcano. At its peak of 13,800 feet, it is Hawaii’s highest summit. Mauna Kea is home to the world’s largest observatory, boasting 13 telescopes operated by astronomers from all over the world. If you’re looking for some world-class stargazing or a great view of the surrounding island, you can’t beat Mauna Kea.
UNIQUE ACTIVITIES
Luau – Hawaiian Feast
No trip to any of the Hawaiian Islands would be complete without the experience of a multicultural luau. Combining a mix of many Polynesian cultures, this colorful celebration features dancing, music, food, and other cultural performances. You’ll enjoy food such as poi, poke, haupia, kalua pig, and more and may even see the flower skills, fishing techniques, and arts or crafts that are part of traditional, local, and continental culture that make each other island genuinely unique.
Whale Watching in Hawaii
The shallow and warm and waters around the Hawaiian Islands are a favorite destination for humpback whales. Scientists estimate that two-thirds of the Northern Pacific humpback whale population come back to Hawaii to care for their young. The humpback whales travel more than 3,000 miles from Alaska to Hawaii, stay for a vacation from December through May, and play off the shores to the delight of natives and spectators alike. Adult humpback males can range from 40 to 52 feet and can weigh up to forty-five tons. Despite their weight, they are acrobats and make a huge splash when they hit the water.
Maui Helicopter Tours
There is no better way to view Maui’s beauty and scale than on a sightseeing tour from a helicopter. As you lift off the ground, the excitement you will feel will be topped only by the breathtaking scenery you see in every direction as you explore some of the most beautiful sights in the Hawaiian Islands.
Why Is Hawaii Appealing for a Meeting?
Hawaii is consistently ranked at the top, or near the top, of employee company surveys for best destinations for meeting or travel incentive travel. The Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), located in Honolulu on the island of O’ahu, is the largest in Hawaii. While it’s a long flight from mainland U.S. to HNL, it is uncomplicated. Travel from Honolulu to and from neighboring Hawaiian island airports is easy.
Some things to consider when planning your meeting in Hawaii:
What is the objective? Some examples:
- Many company retreats are designed to improve productivity and to “refocus” the efforts of their employees. Hawaii provides an ideal destination to break away from the confines of an office and allow employees to socialize with people beyond their department and relax. This can be very helpful for meetings where fresh ideas, new perspectives, or/and networking is essential for high-priority initiatives.
- Executive retreats are also popular in Hawaii as this destination offers exclusive luxury where leaders can recharge as well as connect with each other.
- Incentive travel combined with meetings can be valuable for companies, key stakeholders, and top performers. Hawaii provides unique, memorable experiences and an outstanding destination for exchanging information that improves growth, solves problems, and engages change-makers.
Hawaii is full of beauty, mystery, and adventure, and the islands of Hawaii are a traveler’s dream. It also provides plenty of opportunities to get out of the office and explore. There will be opportunities to inspire innovation, networking, and communication outside of office environments.
Do you need help planning a corporate meeting or incentive travel reward to Hawaii? Contact Gavel International for more information.
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