Hawaii became the USA’s fiftieth state in 1959.  By that time, the four islands comprising Hawaii were already gaining in popularity as a tourist destination.  That growth would explode as air travel became more affordable to middle class Americans.

Today, Hawaii is one of the world’s most popular vacation destinations.  People from all around the globe flock to the islands’ shores every year.

There are a variety of reasons for that popularity.  The four islands (Oahu, Kaiua, Big Island and Maui) feature a complete assortment of vacation activities and are home to some of the world’s greatest resorts.  Let’s look at a few of the things that draw people to Hawaii.

Geography.  Hawaii’s landscape is as unique as it is beautiful.  Colorful tropical flowers dot a tropical green landscape.  It seems like everything grows in Hawaii.  The islands, however, aren’t just little chunks of otherwise forgettable land sticking out from beneath the Pacific.  Hawaii owes much of its geography to violent volcanic forces.  That history is evident in its contours.  Plains come to abrupt ends as mountains begin.  Volcanoes (live and dead) pepper the islands.  The terrain is dramatic, exciting and unlike anything else.  When you combine that with the thousands of surrounding miles of ocean, you can understand why it’s worth a trip to Hawaii just to see the islands.

Climate.  It rains in Hawaii and sometimes it rains fiercely.  Aside from those episodes, however, the state features what most people would consider an absolutely ideal climate.  That perfection is, obviously, revealed in the way things grow on the island but it’s also mirrored in the dress of its inhabitants.  Lightweight clothes are always in order and rarely does one really need even long sleeves to stay quite comfortable.  Many people go to Hawaii simply to enjoy its beautiful weather.

Comfort.  The beauty and climate of Hawaii paved the way to the development of a world-class tourist industry.  Today, the hotels and resorts of Hawaii are truly remarkable.  The resorts operate world-class golf courses, offer complete spa experiences, feature gourmet restaurants and provide access to truly impressive shopping.  The resorts of Hawaii would probably attract guests if they were located in North Dakota!  The fact that they’re in beautiful Hawaii multiplies their appeal.

Activity.  A tourist industry,a great climate and a wonderful landscape add up to numerous recreational activities.  Swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing, surfing, climbing, hiking, bicycling, para-sailing and countless other Hawaii vacation activities draw tourists from around the world.  There is something for everyone in Hawaii and no one leaves the islands without finding something fun to do.

If you’re considering vacation destinations, you simply must put Hawaii on your short list of possible destinations.  Few places combine the features of Hawaii and even fewer can offer its amazing benefits.