bigtravelbuzzHawaii is a beautiful state consisting of a chain of islands in the Pacific Ocean. Here are some things to do and see in Hawaii:
Visit the beaches: Hawaii is known for its stunning beaches with crystal clear waters and soft sand. Some popular beaches include Waikiki Beach in Oahu, Kaanapali Beach in Maui, and Poipu Beach in Kauai.
Explore the national parks: Hawaii has two national parks, Haleakala National Park in Maui and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island. Both parks offer unique landscapes and hiking trails.
Attend a luau: A luau is a traditional Hawaiian feast with music, hula dancing, and other cultural performances. Attending a luau is a great way to experience Hawaiian culture and cuisine.
Go snorkeling or scuba diving: Hawaii is home to a variety of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and coral reefs. Snorkeling or scuba diving is a great way to experience Hawaii’s underwater world.
Visit Pearl Harbor: Pearl Harbor is a historic site in Oahu where the United States was attacked during World War II. Visitors can tour the USS Arizona Memorial and learn about the history of the attack.
Hike to waterfalls: Hawaii has several waterfalls that are accessible by hiking trails, such as Manoa Falls in Oahu and Akaka Falls in the Big Island. Hiking to a waterfall is a great way to experience Hawaii’s lush rainforests and natural beauty.
Hawaii is a popular vacation destination with something for everyone, from beach lovers to history buffs to outdoor adventurers.
Places to Visit in Hawaii
Hawaii is a beautiful and popular travel destination with plenty of activities and attractions. Here are some places you may want to visit:
Honolulu and Waikiki Beach: The capital city of Honolulu is located on the island of Oahu and features many popular attractions, such as the famous Waikiki Beach, historic Pearl Harbor, and the Iolani Palace.
Maui: Known for its stunning beaches, tropical landscapes, and laid-back atmosphere, Maui is a popular destination for honeymooners and families. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, snorkeling, and whale watching.
Kauai: Known as the “Garden Island,” Kauai is the oldest and greenest of the Hawaiian islands. Visitors can enjoy hiking the Na Pali Coast, exploring Waimea Canyon, and relaxing on the beaches.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Located on the Big Island, this national park is home to active volcanoes, lava tubes, and unique geological formations. Visitors can explore the park on foot or take a helicopter tour.
Hanauma Bay: Located on the island of Oahu, Hanauma Bay is a popular spot for snorkeling and swimming. The bay is protected by a coral reef and is home to a wide variety of marine life.
Haleakala National Park: This park is located on the island of Maui and features the Haleakala Crater, which is over 10,000 feet high. Visitors can hike, bike, or drive up to the summit to watch the sunrise or sunset.
Lanai: This small island is known for its luxurious resorts and secluded beaches. Visitors can enjoy activities such as golfing, hiking, and snorkeling.
Molokai: Known for its unspoiled natural beauty and rich Hawaiian culture, Molokai is a great destination for visitors who want to experience a more authentic Hawaiian experience. Visitors can explore the island’s historic sites, learn about traditional Hawaiian culture, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
North Shore: Located on the island of Oahu, the North Shore is a popular spot for surfing and is home to some of the best surf breaks in the world. Visitors can also enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and explore the small towns along the coast.
Waimea Valley: This beautiful valley is located on the island of Oahu and features a botanical garden, waterfall, and cultural center. Visitors can learn about Hawaiian culture and history while enjoying the natural beauty of the valley.
Best Time To Visit Hawaii
The best time to visit Hawaii depends on what you want to do and see during your trip. Here are some things to consider:
Weather: Hawaii has warm and sunny weather throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit. However, there are some differences in weather patterns between the islands. The winter months (December through February) tend to be rainier and cooler, while the summer months (June through August) are drier and hotter.
Crowds: Hawaii is a popular tourist destination, and crowds can vary depending on the time of year. The busiest times are during peak travel periods such as winter holidays, spring break, and summer vacation. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (April through May or September through November).
Activities: Hawaii offers a wide variety of activities and events throughout the year, such as whale watching, surfing competitions, and cultural festivals. Consider what you want to do during your trip and plan accordingly.
Budget: The cost of flights, accommodations, and activities can vary depending on the time of year. Peak travel periods tend to be more expensive, while the shoulder seasons can offer better deals.
Overall, the best time to visit Hawaii is during the shoulder seasons, when the weather is still pleasant, crowds are smaller, and prices are more reasonable. However, if you want to experience specific events or activities, you may need to plan your trip around those dates.
How to get around in Hawaii
There are several ways to get around in Hawaii, including:
Rental car: Renting a car is the most popular and convenient way to get around Hawaii, as it allows you to explore the islands at your own pace. Rental car companies are available at the airports, and there are also many local companies that offer rentals.
Public transportation: The bus system, known as “TheBus,” is an affordable and convenient way to get around Oahu. The fare is $2.75 per ride or $5.50 for a day pass. Other islands also have public transportation options, but they may be less frequent and less extensive.
Taxis and ride-sharing services: Taxis are available on all islands, but they can be expensive. Ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are also available in Hawaii, but they may have limited coverage outside of the major cities.
Biking: Biking is a popular way to explore Hawaii, especially in areas with dedicated bike lanes and scenic routes. There are many bike rental shops available, and some hotels and resorts may offer bikes for guests.
Walking: Walking is a great way to explore the cities and towns of Hawaii, especially in areas with pedestrian-friendly streets and sidewalks. Many popular attractions are also within walking distance of each other.
Tours and shuttles: There are many tour companies and shuttle services available in Hawaii, which can be a convenient way to explore the islands without the hassle of driving. These services can be pricey, but they often include transportation, admission to attractions, and a knowledgeable guide.
Overall, renting a car is the most convenient way to get around Hawaii, but there are other options available depending on your budget and travel preferences.
Where to eat in Hawaii
Hawaii is known for its diverse and delicious food scene, with many local and international cuisines to choose from. Here are some places to eat in Hawaii:
Food trucks: Hawaii is famous for its food trucks, which offer a wide variety of cuisines such as shrimp plates, poke bowls, and plate lunches. Some popular food truck locations include North Shore Oahu, Kauai’s Hanalei Bay, and Maui’s Kahului Harbor.
Local restaurants: Hawaii has many local restaurants that serve traditional Hawaiian cuisine, such as kalua pig, lau lau, and poi. Some popular local restaurants include Helena’s Hawaiian Food and Ono Hawaiian Foods in Honolulu.
Fine dining: Hawaii has many high-end restaurants that offer world-class cuisine and stunning ocean views. Some popular fine dining restaurants include Chef Mavro and Alan Wong’s in Honolulu, and Merriman’s on Maui.
Seafood: Hawaii is home to a variety of fresh and delicious seafood, such as ahi poke, mahi mahi, and lobster. Some popular seafood restaurants include Nico’s Pier 38 and Duke’s Waikiki in Honolulu, and Mama’s Fish House on Maui.
Coffee shops: Hawaii is also known for its coffee, with the Kona region on the Big Island producing some of the best coffee in the world. Some popular coffee shops include Island Vintage Coffee in Honolulu and Kona Coffee Purveyors on Oahu.
Food markets: Hawaii has many food markets and farmers’ markets that offer local produce, snacks, and crafts. Some popular markets include the Honolulu Farmers’ Market, Kauai Community Market, and Maui Swap Meet.
Overall, Hawaii offers a wide variety of dining options to suit every taste and budget. Be sure to try some of the local cuisine and seafood during your visit, and explore the many food trucks, markets, and coffee shops available.
Famous street stalls in Hawaii
Hawaii is known for its diverse and delicious food scene, with many street stalls and food trucks offering unique and tasty dishes. Here are some famous street stalls in Hawaii:
Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck: Located on the North Shore of Oahu, Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck is famous for its garlic shrimp plate lunch, which features a generous serving of shrimp cooked with garlic butter and served over rice.
Matsumoto Shave Ice: Located in the town of Haleiwa on Oahu’s North Shore, Matsumoto Shave Ice is a must-visit for anyone looking for a refreshing treat. They offer a variety of flavors and toppings, and the line can get long, but it’s worth the wait.
Leonard’s Bakery: Located in Honolulu on the island of Oahu, Leonard’s Bakery is famous for its malasadas, which are Portuguese-style doughnuts filled with various flavors such as custard, chocolate, and haupia (coconut).
Ono Seafood: Located in Honolulu, Ono Seafood is known for its delicious poke bowls, which feature fresh fish marinated in a variety of sauces and served over rice.
Waiahole Poi Factory: Located on the east side of Oahu, Waiahole Poi Factory is a family-owned business that has been making poi (a traditional Hawaiian food made from taro root) for over 100 years. They also offer plate lunches and other Hawaiian dishes.
Puka Dog: Located in the town of Waimea on the island of Kauai, Puka Dog is famous for its unique take on the hot dog, which is served in a toasted, hollowed-out bun and topped with a variety of sauces and condiments.
These are just a few examples of the many famous street stalls and food trucks in Hawaii. Be sure to explore the local food scene during your visit to the islands.
Where to stay in Hawaii
Luxury accommodation
Hawaii offers a wide range of luxury accommodation options, including world-class resorts, private villas, and upscale hotels. Here are some of the best luxury accommodation options in Hawaii:
The Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea: Located on the island of Maui, this five-star resort offers luxurious accommodations, three swimming pools, a spa, and multiple restaurants. The rooms feature private lanais (balconies) with ocean or garden views, and some even have their own plunge pools.
The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua: Also located on the island of Maui, this luxury hotel features stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, an award-winning golf course, six restaurants and lounges, and a full-service spa. The rooms are spacious and feature marble bathrooms, private balconies, and ocean or garden views.
Halekulani: Located in Waikiki on the island of Oahu, Halekulani is a luxurious oceanfront resort with beautifully appointed rooms, a stunning infinity pool, and multiple dining options. The hotel also features a world-class spa and a gallery showcasing works by Hawaii’s most prominent artists.
Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina: Situated on Oahu’s west coast, this luxurious resort features multiple swimming pools, a spa, and an oceanfront golf course. The rooms and suites are spacious and offer stunning ocean or mountain views.
Montage Kapalua Bay: Also located on the island of Maui, this luxurious resort features spacious one-, two-, and three-bedroom residences, all with fully equipped kitchens, separate living and dining areas, and private lanais with ocean views. The resort also offers multiple dining options, a spa, and a stunning infinity pool.
These are just a few examples of the many luxurious accommodation options available in Hawaii. When planning your stay, be sure to consider the location, amenities, and style of accommodation that best suits your needs and preferences.
Where to stay in Hawaii
Budget accommodation
Hawaii offers a range of budget-friendly accommodation options for travelers, including hostels, budget hotels, and vacation rentals. Here are some of the best budget accommodation options in Hawaii:
Waikiki Beachside Hostel: Located just steps from the beach in the heart of Waikiki on the island of Oahu, this hostel offers dormitory-style rooms and private rooms at an affordable price. The hostel also features a communal kitchen and a rooftop terrace with ocean views.
Hilo Bay Hostel: Located in the town of Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaii, this hostel offers budget-friendly dormitory-style rooms and private rooms. The hostel is located near many local attractions, including the Hilo Farmers Market and the Wailuku River State Park.
Kauai Beach House Hostel: Located on the island of Kauai, this hostel offers dormitory-style rooms and private rooms in a quiet, residential area just a short walk from the beach. The hostel features a communal kitchen, free Wi-Fi, and a large backyard with picnic tables and hammocks.
Aston Islander on the Beach: Located on the island of Kauai, this budget hotel offers affordable rooms with garden or ocean views. The hotel features a swimming pool, a hot tub, and a barbecue area for guests to use.
Vacation rentals: Another budget-friendly option in Hawaii is to rent a vacation home or apartment through services such as Airbnb or VRBO. This option allows travelers to stay in a local neighborhood and often offers more space and amenities than a traditional hotel room.
These are just a few examples of the many budget-friendly accommodation options available in Hawaii. When planning your stay, be sure to consider the location, amenities, and style of accommodation that best suits your needs and budget.
Travel Tips Hawaii
Here are some travel tips for visiting Hawaii:
Plan ahead: Hawaii is a popular destination, especially during peak season, so it’s important to plan ahead and book accommodations, flights, and activities in advance to ensure availability and avoid higher prices.
Pack appropriately: Hawaii has a warm, tropical climate, so pack lightweight, breathable clothing, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes for walking and hiking.
Rent a car: Renting a car is a great way to explore the islands at your own pace and access remote areas. Be sure to book in advance, as rental cars can be in high demand.
Respect the culture: Hawaii has a rich cultural heritage, so it’s important to respect local customs and traditions. For example, remove your shoes before entering someone’s home and be respectful of sacred sites and cultural practices.
Try local cuisine: Hawaii has a unique culinary scene, influenced by its diverse cultural heritage. Be sure to try local dishes such as poke, shave ice, and plate lunches.
Stay safe in the water: Hawaii is known for its beautiful beaches and world-class surfing, but it’s important to be aware of ocean conditions and take necessary safety precautions, such as swimming only in designated areas and following beach safety guidelines.
Be mindful of the environment: Hawaii is home to many unique and fragile ecosystems, so it’s important to be mindful of the environment and practice sustainable tourism practices, such as reducing plastic use and staying on designated trails when hiking.
These are just a few travel tips for visiting Hawaii. By being mindful of local customs and traditions, practicing sustainable tourism, and staying safe, you can have a memorable and enjoyable trip to the Hawaiian Islands.