Hawaii is made up of several islands.
With its sandy beaches, tranquil waters and natural beauty, Hawaii is a tropical paradise with numerous attractions. When visiting Hawaii, there are many must-see tourist spots, however, some lesser known Hawaiian attractions provide memorable experiences and a deeper look into Hawaiian culture and history, which many vacationers will appreciate.
Waikiki Historic Trail
Designed by author and historian Dr. George Kanehele, the Waikiki Historic Trail is a walking tour of the history and culture of Waikiki, a history which few knew existed. Five bronze casted, surfboard shaped trail markers, highlight important sites such as the statue of Princess Kaiulani and site of the KaweheweheÍs Healing Waters. Other landmarks, such as Duke Kahanamoku's bronze statue at Kuhio Beach Park, serve as their own types of markers, a dedication to the sacred history of both Hawaii's chiefs and commoners.
Kaneaki Heiau
A little known Hawaiian attraction is the Kaneaki Heiau, a temple built in the 15th century for Lono, the benevolent god of agriculture, harvest and fertility. The temple boasts of an interesting history, with several renovations that doubled the size, and a re-dedication of the temple to the god of war Ku by King Kamehameha. Now, Oahu's best restored temple, Kaneaki Heiau houses two additional prayer towers, a drum house, a taboo house, images of the gods and an altar.
Kaunakakai
Kaunakakai, the Friendly Isle town, is the capital of the island of Molokai, one of the lesser-known islands of Hawaii. This small, unassuming town is laid-back, yet offers a variety of attractions for the vacationer looking for a different type of Hawaiian experience. Tour the 80-year-old Purdy's Macadamia Farm or the restored 1878 R.W. Meyer Sugar Mill, which is found in the Molokai Museum. Kaunakakai is also home to the Kanemitsu Bakery, which produces world-famous bread. The islands main harbor also offers snorkeling, whale watching and fishing.
Garden of the Gods
The Garden of the Gods, or Keahikawelo, is a remote canyon area that contains several rocks and boulders in various shapes, sizes and colors. Some Hawaiians credit this formation to a kind of museum of the gods, where the gods used strong winds to create their favorite sculptures out of rock. The Garden of the Gods is visually stunning, especially in the early morning when the sunlight showcases the seemingly hidden colors of the rocks. This unusual rock garden is located approximately seven miles north of Hawaii's Lanai City.
Tags: Garden Gods, Kaneaki Heiau, Historic Trail, history which, known Hawaiian, Waikiki Historic