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Sports and Recreation in Hawaii
The Hawaiian archipelago consists of eight major islands, namely, Oahu, Kauai, Maui, Molokai, Lanai, Hawaii, Niihau and Kahoolawe. While each of the islands have their unique topography and other attractive features, at one point all the islands are same- all of them will offer you an assortment of activities ranging from easy to moderate to most exciting. Hawaii is the place where you can experience all sorts of outdoor activities…both in land and water. But water sports seem to be far more popular in terms of tourist attraction.
What makes the water sports so interesting in Hawaii?
The group of Hawaiian Islands is geographically most isolated land in the whole world; the nearest landmass is over two thousands miles away from it. Now this isolation of Hawaii came as a boon for the island; the sea near the islands is rife with vast marine life that includes over two thousand species. Another advantage of geographical isolation comes in form of huge surfing waves. Hawaii’s formidable position in world tourism map is due to a large extent to these two factors. The state provides wonderful infrastructure to the tourism industry and encourages the independent operation of shore fishing, sailing, scuba diving, kayaking, kite surfing or windsurfing charter companies. All these make Hawaii one of the hottest water sports destinations in the world.
Here are the descriptions of some of the Hawaii’s most popular recreational sports:
Shore fishing: Hawaii is a paradise for the anglers. With countless streams and natural or artificial lakes in addition to the vast sea water, Hawaii becomes an attractive place for fishing. In addition to traditional fishing techniques, in Hawaii you can explore the unique Hawaiian techniques followed by the native Hawaiians for generations. Barring a few places such as Oahu's Lake Wilson and Nuuanu Reservoir, you won’t need license for fishing in any part of the Hawaiian Islands.
Big Island is the most celebrated place for game fishing and the largest fishing center is situated near Honokohau Marina on the west coast of the Big Island. Kauai and Maui are two other game fishing centers in Hawaii where fishing is enjoyable all round the year.
Snorkeling: Hawaii is famous for its snorkeling activities. The famous snorkeling spots in Hawaii will give you the opportunity of viewing spectacular coral reefs, dolphins and turtles. The most snorkeling destination in Hawaii is located in a place off the south west coast of Maui. Here a tiny curved collapsed crater of Molokini is famous for its colorful and rich endemic marine life and clear visibility.
Big Island is also an excellent place for snorkeling in the protected bays off the west coast. You get to watch attractive marine lives in the places like Honaunau Bay and Kealakekua Bay and near Kahaluu Beach Park. Oahu is another excellent snorkeling destination. Famous spots include Hanauma Bay and Diamond Head, in the east of Waikiki, Rabbit Island on the east coast and at Sharks Cove on the north shore.
Scuba diving: The rich marine life of Hawaii has made it one of the world’s best scuba diving centers. Here the vast marine life consists of sharks, manta rays and eagle rays, in addition to turtles, dolphins and whales. In addition to attractive coral reefs here you will also find submarine lava tubes spread over a vast area to form an extensive network. Maui and Big Island are the two most famous destinations for scuba diving in Hawaii. The tourist centers will equip with thorough training and instruction for a safe scuba diving experience.
Kite surfing: If you need little more adventure, you can explore the possibilities of kite surfing for which the best place in Hawaii is Kailua beach. June to August is the best time for learning kite surfing in Hawaii.
Thus in Hawaii, the sports and recreational possibilities are vast; only you have to pick up the right one according to your preferences and interests.