Paradise of the United States

Hawaii is rich in culture and history for those to like to delve into the depths of the past. As the 50th state, Hawaii's population is composed of 60 ethnic groups, making it the most ethnically diverse state in the union. Polynesian culture prevails throughout our state, but every island has its own flavor. The islands are home to 29 endangered bird species and 19 endangered plant species, which conservationists are working to save. Of the 680 species of fish found in the Hawaiian waters, about 30% are endemic (found nowhere else in the world!).

The capital city of Honolulu is on Oahu, thick with tourists and rich in history. Kauai and Maui offer romantic retreats, while Lanai and Molokai lure travelers with adventure off the beaten track.

Jack's Diving Locker decided to make it's home on the beautiful Big Island, famous for not only its black-sand beaches and snow-capped volcanoes, but it's spectacular diving in warm clear waters as well.

Hawai'i - The Big Island is nearly twice the size of all the other Hawaiian islands combined and is the youngest and largest of the Hawaiian islands. It is approximately 4,028 square miles, with 266 miles of coastline and growing due to Kilauea Volcano. Our island is home to 137,500+ residents. In recent years we have experienced one of the largest population growth rates in the state.

Photos by Web/Divemaster Andrea Leicher

The Big Island's tropical climate is nearly ideal. Geographically it's the most diverse island of the archipelago, with deserts, rainforests, volcanoes and snow-capped mountains. The Big Island is home to five volcanoes: Mauna Loa, Kilauea, Hualalai, Kohala and Mauna Kea. Mauna Loa and Kilauea have been the most active in recent times, with Hualalai brooding silently as an eruption possibility. In the winter, both Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa are cloaked with a mantle of snow.

The mountains create a huge barrier that blocks the north-easterly trade winds and makes the leeward, western side of the island the driest region in the archipelago. This Kona coast has the best beaches and water conditions, with plenty of sun and very little runoff, contributing to awesome diving conditions. The windward, eastern coast is predominantly rugged, with pounding surf, plenty of rain, tropical rainforests, deep ravines and majestic waterfalls. Kona, Waikoloa and Hilo are the main centers for accommodation and restaurants.