Hawaiian History and Attractions
mark January 28th, 2007
The Hawaii Islands burst into the pages of American history on 21st August, 1959, as the 50th State of USA. Subsequently, Hawaii Islands have seen an influx of tourists and has gained popularity as one of the best tourist destinations in the world.
Golden beaches with tall swaying palm trees along a spectacular coastline, picturesque mountains, natural waterfalls, colorful and varied flora and fauna, and unique wildlife make this archipelago a photographer’s delight. The island state of Hawaii has adapted itself to the changing demands of its visitors. Numerous beautiful resorts, golf courses and shopping malls offering the best in luxury and brands from all over the world. Come to Hawaii to embrace yourself with every comfort that can be wished for.
The State of Hawaii is made up of a series of nineteen, large and small islands and many atolls which stretch for over 2000 miles into the Pacific Ocean. The larger islands are inhabited and referred to as the Hawaii Islands. These islands are Maui, Oahu, Lanai, Kauai, Molokai, Kahoolawe, and Niihau and, of course, Hawaii (also called the Big Island). To the west of Niihau and beyond lies the Midway Island. However, the most accessible and beautiful islands are the Hawaii, Maui, Oahu, Kauai, Lanai and Molokai. The island of Kahoolawe is under the occupation of the US Navy and does not allow any visitors. Niihau is inhabited by the few hundreds of remaining true blooded Hawaiians. No visitors are allowed on this island as well. Many tourists who visit these islands are captivated and spellbound by the beauty of the scenes around them and cannot resist the urge to keep clicking photographs in an attempt to capture the resplendent nature in all her glory!
Hawaii Islands are easily accessible since all major airlines fly daily in and out of the various islands here. You can use the inter-island air carriers in order to fly between the various islands such as Oahu, Maui, and Kauai etc. You do not require a passport or vaccination if you’re a US citizen. However, no edibles are allowed to and from Hawaii. Upon reaching Hawaii, you can choose from the numerous hotels, and car rental services available. Hawaii is very expensive in terms of food and accommodations. Carrying high SPF sunscreen will be advantageous as the sun is very bright and beaches hot in more ways than just the obvious!
A Brief History of the Hawaiian Islands
The Island State of Hawaii has been witness to numerous cultural changes ranging from the early settlers to colonial occupation. Marquesas were the first Polynesians who may have settled on this archipelago in 500 – 600 AD. However, their peaceful existence was shattered by Tahitians around 1000 AD. But it took many years for these islands to be actually, discovered. Captain Cook discovered the Hawaiian Islands while on his way from England via Cape of Good Hope to Indian Ocean. Cook sighted the island of Oahu on 18th January 1778. He named these islands as Sandwich Islands in honor of Earl of Sandwich. However, Captain Cook was assassinated by some anti social elements.
After the death of Captain Cook, King Kamehameha rose to monarchy. He worked hard to unify all the islands under a single rule. He also established trade links with Americans, who came visiting these islands for their Sandalwood forests. In 1820s, many American ships began to visit the ports of Hawaii in search of women and wine. The next 50 years witnessed tremendous growth. Till date, King Kamehameha is the most revered person across Hawaii.
Then in 1900, the sugarcane plantation owners along with US government overthrew the monarchy to establish Hawaii as a US territory. The strategically located islands of Hawaii gained further prominence during the Second World War. Pearl Harbor was a huge military base for the US Navy and was attacked by Japanese forces on 7th December, 1941, thus forcing USA to participate in WW II.
1970s saw a resurgence in the local cultural values as Hawaii gained prominence on various tourists’ brochures. The ethnic diversity of the Hawaiian Islands has contributed tremendously towards the terrific growth of the state’s economy via tourism.
Attractions in Hawaii
A huge adventure park; this is the best way to describe Hawaii. The beaches are just part of the numerous attractions the archipelago offers the visitors. Exquisite sunsets, crystal blue waters, sand and surf, wildlife, vegetation, rich and colorful culture and an ecclesiastical mix of the old with the modern can tempted even the most amateur of photographers to try their hand at photography! At Hawaii, you must also pay a visit to the world class aquariums and zoos. If you are a water baby then your trip cannot be complete without taking a cruise or sailing into the historic harbors, or snorkeling underwater parks. Soak yourself in the resting rays of a vermillion sunset, a fine photographic art print like picture, or view spectacular coastal cliffs and breathe in their majestic appeal, or just stand by the water shoreline and watch for whales or dolphins.
While photographing the large mountains, cliffs, dormant volcanoes, canyons and exotic bird and wildlife, use lenses in the 20mm to 200mm range. The landscape is mind-blowing and use of polarized and graduated neutral density filters will produce desirable results. Your bird photo prints will give you good results if you use 500mm range lenses.
Kauai Island is a paradise! Photographers shall have a great time taking photos of attractions such as Mt. Wai’ale’ale (the main volcano), the Waimea Canyon, also known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, has amazing hues of red and green. A visit to the Kilauea National Wildlife Refuge is a must since you can take photos of seldom seen birds such as Albatross, Shearwater and Petrel and convert them into fine prints to adorn the wall of your living room.
Oahu is another very popular tourist destination. The un-crowded northern beaches are the best place on earth to take photos of the gigantic pipeline type of waves during winters.
Another treasure trove of attractions is the Maui Island. Incredibly gorgeous landscapes consisting of beaches, waterfalls along the roadside and unique rock formations can leave you clicking for hours without getting bored.
Other islands such as Lanai and Molokai offer great opportunities for under water photography, while the Big Island is the absolutely the best place to take photos. White sand beaches, rain forests and spewing volcanoes and do not forget to catch sea turtles sunning themselves under the Hawaiian sun!
