Only in Hawaii can you experience vog. Vog is an atmospheric effect caused by emissions of the Kilauea volcano on the Big Island of Hawaii.
When sulfur dioxide gas is released, it reacts chemically with sunlight, oxygen, dust particles, and water in the air to form a mixture of sulfate aerosols, sulfuric acid and other oxidized sulfur species. Together, this gas and aerosol mixture produces a hazy atmospheric condition known as volcanic smog or vog.
While for most residents, vog is merely an inconvenience, it can affect people with chronic diseases such as emphysema and asthma, although everyone reacts differently. Potential visitors to the Big Island who suffer from these problems should consult with their doctors before their visit.
These weather problems, however, are exceptions to the rule. There is no better place on earth to visit where you can expect to find great weather almost any day of the year.
The rain that falls upon the windward sides of the islands produces some of the most beautiful valleys, waterfalls, flowers and plant life on earth. The sun the shines upon the leeward sides is why Hawaii has many of the top rated beaches, hotels, resorts and spas in the world. The temperate winter waters of Hawaii provide the perfect sanctuary for the humpback whales, who return each year to frolic with their young.
In Hawaii you can ride horseback amidst fields of taro in the lush Waipi`o Valley of the Big Island of Hawaii. You can see the sunset and experience what is considered the clearest view of the heavens on earth from the summit of Mauna Kea, albeit in near freezing temperatures. In Hawaii you can bathe in the tropic sun while laying on the beach at Ka`anapali on Maui or on the beach of Waikiki on Oahu.
You tell me ... what place on earth offers you such diversity? Only Hawaii.
If you'd like to check the weather in Hawaii before you make your trip, we suggest that you explore the resources available in our Hawaiian Weather Information section.
