What To Look For On The Map Of Hawaii

Maps of Hawaii abound on the internet, in books and in brochures. All of them should list some basic features but specialized maps of Hawaii will show other features.

First of all, a map of Hawaii should show all the islands in the Hawaiian archipelago. Chief among these will be the main islands: Big Island (also known as Hawaii), Maui, Oahu, Kauai, Lanai, Niihau, Kahoolawe and Molokai. Some maps show how far Hawaii is from the mainland USA; other maps show Hawaii in greater detail.

A map that shows Hawaii in greater detail is much more useful for those planning their vacations. A detailed map will show and name the major channels between the islands. The chief cities of Hawaii should also be shown on the map; you will find the state capital, Honolulu, on Oahu along with Kailua and Kaneohe, while Hilo is located on the Big Island.

The map of Hawaii should also show the main geographical features such as mountains (Manua Loa and Manua Kea on Big Island, Waialeale on Kauai and Red Hill on Maui), and rivers (Wailuku River on the Big Island and Anahulu River on Oahu.

For even greater detail in a map of Hawaii, one should look at maps of individual islands.

A map of Oahu will show the location of Honolulu International Airport (located on a peninsula outside the major urban area of Honolulu. A map of Oahu should also indicate the location of Pearl Harbour, one of Hawaii's most historically significant sites.

A map of the Big Island will, of course, show where the airports (Hilo International Airport and Kona International Airport in Keahole) and the road network. But a map of Hawaii (as in the Big Island) will also show the location of the famous Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (on the east-southeast coast of the island).

Exactly what your ideal map of Hawaii should show will depend on the type of vacation you are planning. If you are visiting Hawaii with a view to trying out the many water sports available, then you will be looking for a map of Hawaii that features the best surf beaches and the best places for snorkelling or boating. Those wanting a cultural or historical experience will want to check out the palace of King Kamehameha and his dynasty on the Big Island, and the many other cultural highlights within Oahu.

Still other specialised maps of Hawaii are easily found. Most tourist operators, resorts, hotels and attractions feature a map of Hawaii on their website that shows you the location of their business. But a prospective visitor to these islands will be able to plan with the help of a good old-fashioned street map of the major cities of Hawaii, which should give the locations of many features.