The Waimea Canyon on the Hawaiian island of Kauai is known as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific."
Six of the islands that comprise the archipelago state of Hawaii are open to visitors. All of the islands are known primarily for their beaches and other natural splendors, though each one provides a unique assortment of family-friendly attractions that range from exhilarating encounters with wildlife to scenic excursions and prominent historical sites.
Kauai
Kauai boasts one of the most awe-inspiring geological formations in the state -- the Waimea Canyon. Nicknamed the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," Waimea is a mile wide, 14 miles long and more than 3,600 feet deep. The only navigable river in Hawaii, the 20-mile long Wailua River, is located in Kauai. You can explore it by canoe or kayak or take a boat tour, such as the Smith's Fern Grotto Tour. The Kilauea Lighthouse on the North Shore, which is part of a wildlife refuge, is a must-see.
Oahu
Honolulu, the state capital, and its namesake airport -- Hawaii's only major airport -- are located on Oahu. Here you can swim with dolphins, sea lions and rays at Sea Life Park Hawaii or sign up for surfing lessons at the world-famous Waikiki Beach. History buffs should visit Iolani Palace, the only official royal residence ever erected in the United States, and tour the memorials to the victims of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor during World War II.
Molokai
The tallest sea cliffs in the world are found in Molokai, according to the Guinness Book of World Records. You can see them on your way Kalaupapa National Historical Park, the community where St. Damien, a Belgian missionary, cared for lepers who had been banished to the island. The park is only accessible by aircraft or mule. Father Damien Tours offers flights and narrated tours that depart from Waikiki on the island of Oahu.
Lanai
Lanai is the island for families seeking relaxing seclusion. One of its most famous attractions is Puu Pehe (Sweetheart Rock) in Hulopoe Bay, where, according to local lore, a drowned maiden was buried by her lover, who subsequently took his life.
Maui
Dubbed "The Magic Isle," Maui is home to the 30,000-acre Haleakala National Park, where you can ride on horseback to the island's highest point or swim in the naturally occurring Pools of Oheo, an assortment of tiered, waterfall-fed pools. If you visit between December and May, take a whale watching tour and observe the humpback whales that migrate to Maui's calm, shallow waters to breed.
Hawaii (Big Island)
As its nickname suggests, the island of Hawaii, known as the "Big Island" is the largest in the archipelago. Here you can snorkel with manta rays or visit one of several coffee farms that produce 100 percent pure Kona coffee, such as the Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation, which offers free tours. Another major Big Island attraction is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to the very active Kilauea Volcano.
Tags: Canyon Pacific, Grand Canyon, Grand Canyon Pacific, National Park, Waimea Canyon