Hawaii

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Hawaii is a breathtakingly beautiful chain of islands in the Pacific Ocean, known for its tropical climate, stunning beaches, volcanic landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, from surfing and snorkeling to hiking and whale watching, as well as indulge in delicious local cuisine and immerse themselves in the aloha spirit of Hawaii’s welcoming communities.

Experience paradise on earth in Hawaii, where palm-fringed beaches, lush landscapes, and tropical adventures await.

English and Hawaiian are the official languages of Hawaii, and most people speak English fluently. However, Hawaiian is also widely spoken and recognized as a cultural treasure. Visitors may hear Hawaiian words and phrases used in everyday conversation, and may even see them on street signs and in other public places. Learning a few basic Hawaiian phrases, such as “aloha” (hello/goodbye) and “mahalo” (thank you), can add to the experience of visiting Hawaii and show respect for its culture.

Hawaii has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, typically ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (24-30°C). The islands are also known for their trade winds, which provide a cooling breeze and make the climate comfortable even in the summer months. Rainfall varies by location and time of year, with some areas receiving more rain than others. The winter months (December to February) tend to be the wettest, while the summer months (June to August) are generally drier. Overall, Hawaii’s climate is ideal for outdoor activities and beach lounging, making it a popular vacation destination for all seasons.

The United States dollar (USD) is the official currency of Hawaii, as it is a part of the United States. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at most businesses, including restaurants, shops, and hotels. ATMs are also available throughout the islands. While some places may accept other currencies, it’s recommended to have U.S. dollars on hand for easier transactions.

Hawaii uses the same electrical system as the rest of the United States, with a standard voltage of 120 volts and a frequency of 60 Hertz (Hz). Visitors from countries that use a different electrical system will need to bring a converter and adapter to use their electronics in Hawaii. Most hotels provide electrical outlets that can accommodate various plugs, but it’s always a good idea to double-check with the hotel beforehand.

 

Hawaii has excellent mobile phone and internet coverage, with major carriers such as AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile providing reliable service throughout the islands. Visitors can also purchase prepaid SIM cards from local carriers such as Hawaiian Telecom, which can be used in unlocked phones. Wi-Fi is also widely available in most hotels, restaurants, and public areas, and many businesses offer free Wi-Fi to customers. However, some more remote areas of the islands may have limited or no coverage, so it’s a good idea to check with your carrier or the local tourist office before venturing out.

There are no specific vaccinations required for travel to Hawaii. However, it’s always a good idea to make sure that routine vaccinations are up to date, such as measles, mumps, rubella, and the flu shot. Visitors who plan on participating in outdoor activities, such as hiking or swimming, should also consider vaccinations for hepatitis A and B. Additionally, visitors should take precautions to protect against mosquito bites, as there have been cases of dengue fever and Zika virus in Hawaii in the past.

Visit the Travel Medicine Centre for more info.

Canadian citizens do not need a visa to enter the United States, including Hawaii, for tourism or business purposes if the stay is less than 180 days.

For more info visit the Canadian government website.

  • Waikiki Beach, Oahu

    Waikiki Beach is the most famous beach in Hawaii, with its white sands, clear blue waters, and an abundance of shopping and dining options. It's a must-visit for any first-time visitor to Hawaii.

  • Haleakala National Park, Maui

    Haleakala National Park is home to the dormant Haleakala Volcano, which offers spectacular views of the sunrise and sunset. Visitors can hike through the park's lush rainforest, see the native flora and fauna, and camp under the stars.

  • Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Big Island

    Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a unique destination where visitors can witness active lava flows from the Kilauea Volcano, explore the park's scenic hiking trails, and learn about the island's volcanic history at the park's visitor center.

  • Na Pali Coast, Kauai

    The Na Pali Coast on Kauai's north shore is a breathtakingly beautiful coastline with towering sea cliffs, lush valleys, and cascading waterfalls. The best way to explore the Na Pali Coast is by taking a boat tour or hiking the Kalalau Trail.

  • Pearl Harbor, Oahu

    Pearl Harbor is a historic site that commemorates the attack on Pearl Harbor during World War II. Visitors can tour the USS Arizona Memorial, which sits above the sunken battleship, and learn about the events that led up to the attack.

  • Hanauma Bay, Oahu

    Hanauma Bay is a nature preserve and marine sanctuary that offers some of the best snorkeling in Hawaii. Visitors can swim with a variety of colorful fish and sea turtles in the crystal-clear waters.

  • Iao Valley State Park, Maui

    Iao Valley State Park is a lush, tropical paradise that's home to the iconic Iao Needle, a towering rock formation that rises 1,200 feet above the valley floor. Visitors can hike through the park's lush rainforest, explore the park's historic landmarks, and take in the breathtaking views.

  • Kualoa Ranch, Oahu

    A cosmopolitan city known for its fashion, art, and design, as well as its beautiful architecture, including the famous Duomo.

  • Iolani Palace

    This historic palace in downtown Honolulu was the official residence of Hawaii's monarchy from 1882 to 1893. Today, visitors can take guided tours of the palace and learn about Hawaii's fascinating royal history.

  • Lahaina

    Located on Maui's west coast, Lahaina is a charming town known for its historic architecture, lively arts scene, and beautiful beaches. Visitors can stroll along Front Street, explore art galleries and boutiques, and take a sunset cruise along the coast.

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