Destination: Hawai'i
Note: This post was written pre COVID, please see the updated Hawaii travel requirements here
Spring is almost here and that means it's the beginning of Wedding Season, Spring Break and before you know it's time for graduations and summer vacation. Now is the time to plan that honeymoon, girls getaway, graduation gift, guys trip or family vacation.
If Hawai'i isn't on your list it should be and here's why!
Top Destination
Hawai'i is THE destination for honeymooners and vacationers who want to get away from it all and relax. In fact those who vacation in Hawai'i keep coming back to Hawai'i. They may not do the same island and opt to explore different island but they keep coming back.
Low Season vs High Season:
Fortunately for the vacationer, Hawai'i has great weather throughout the year. The downside is that there really isn't a low and high season. Vacationers all over the world visit Hawai'i throughout the year which means hotels are pretty full so no need to reduce prices or close during certain months.
Don't fret though focus on finding the special deals such as daily breakfast, kids stay free or a free night stay. That's where it really counts.
Flights:
Hawai'i has 8 islands 7 of which are open to visitors. Honolulu (HNL) is the island most well serviced by flights from the mainland. Your other well serviced islands include Maui (OGG) or Kona (KOA).
The more flights that are available into any given airport the more options you have for flight time and competition in price; so the better for you. Looking to island hop though? You can still do so with the inter-island airliner Island Air. For all you United Mileage members you can still earn points and redeem them on Island Air.
Where to Go !:
O'ahu
Waikiki Beach is usually the place for first time visitors. Located on the island of O'ahu this is where you'll find the capital of Honolulu and where you will find most of your hotels.
Don't limit your travel to only the hotel area. Rent a car and venture off to the different parts of the island. Go hiking on Diamond Head. Visit the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor, Iolani Palace, the Polynesian Cultural Center, the Bishop Museum. Don't forget to stop by Dole Pineapple with the children and have them ride the trolley.
Our client, an avid nature lover said Diamond Head takes less than an hour, but get there early as it can get crowded.
What else did they like about O'ahu?: Their favorite part was walking around town and happening to find gelato at Via Gelato. They loved the Yam (I think they meant Taro) flavor gelato which was surprisingly good.
Sent in by a client after hiking Diamond Head
Maui
I recommend Maui for the couple that wants to relax and see much of nature. This is definitely the island where you need a car, preferably a 4X4 to get around.
Take your time and drive the Hana Road and hike Mount Haleakala. If you go to Mount Haleakala get there early to see the sunrise. If you're not too keen on walking back down, get a tour that allows you to bike it. If hiking is not your thing take a helicopter up
Additionally, this is the place for foodies. Try Lahaina Grill for a special night out. Traveling with the family then try Pacific'o Restaurant
Big Island aka Hawai'i
Want to get up close and personal with a volcano? This is the island! The Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park is your first stop. Here you can view Mount Kilauea erupt and it's lava flow in all directions. If the video below is thrilling wait until you're up close, that's the real fun.
This island is actually the youngest of all the Hawai'ian islands. Here you can enjoy black sand beaches, horseback riding and hiking through Waimea. Don't forget to do a Kona Cofee tour.
Kauai
Another island that is great for those that want to kayak on the Wailu River, hike Waimea Canyon and see the beautiful Naapali Coast. Visiting the coast is best done via boat.
Where to Stay:
Your major brands such as the Hyatt, Hilton, Marriott and Starwood are all over each of the islands, it's all about picking out what's right for you.
Want to be on the beach?
No problem, but it will cost you. Beachfront properties are usually your first to go and they are the priciest. Try to stay a block or two away from the beach and walk there.
Waikiki:
Sent by a client who stayed at the Hyatt Centric Waikiki
We sent our client to the Hyatt Centric Waikiki. They were a bit weary about this place but ended up loving it. This property was recently opened in December and looked beautiful as well as being close to the beach.
Need somewhere with suites style?
Try the Westin Ka'anapali in Maui- This is a favorite amongst large families and vacationers looking for more spacious accommodations and villa living. A word to the wise though, book this place early, it's usually fully booked !!
Another client favorite in Maui was the Fairmont Kea Lani- This luxurious property is right on the beach and had a great spa not to mention activities for the children. They have rooms for a young family of 5 ( 2 adults 3 children (1 being an infant) in a room with a king, sofabed and a rollaway.
Paddleboard across from your room
Photo courtesy of UnCruise
Want a Floating Home instead?
Try a Norwegian Cruise or an UnCruise cruise. Norweigian will sail to all 7 islands in a big ship atmosphere. While UnCruise will allow you to have the small ship experience on 4 islands. The ship is also small enough to dock in areas that are too small for larger ships, not to mention the adventure packed excursions that await you on this ship.
Now we most certainly did not cover all of the islands or possible activities in Hawai'i but feel free to start exploring all about Hawai'i on Hawai'i's tourism board, this is quite possibly the most indepth website on Hawai'i.
Have you been to Hawai;i, what did you like or didn't like? Anything we're missing? Comment below and let us know your experience
As always happy traveling!