Hawaii for your next Vacation

One of the first things you have to think about when choosing Hawaii for your vacation is the time it takes to get there.   If you are leaving from the East coast it will typically take 10 to 12 hours of flying time depending upon where you are leaving from and what island you are going to.  We typically suggest that since you are flying that far that you plan for a 10 to 14 day trip and a stop at 2 or 3 islands as each island has much to offer.

Maui

Maui has much to offer, from sailing and surfing to hiking at the Molokini Crater. One of the top things to do in Maui is to spend time on the water.  There is great snorkeling in Molokini.  During your trip you will typically see dolphins or whales and hopefully some green turtles. Most resorts have great beaches, but it is always fun to venture out to the west side of the island to see some of the amazing white sand beaches. If you have ever dreamed of riding a bike down a volcano, then Maui is the place.  The ride is downhill and a must do.   Maui also offers zip lining and fishing for those seeking an adventure.

Some of our top picks for hotels include:

Marriott Wailea Beach Resort
Sheraton Maui Resort
Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa

Kauai

Kauai is known as the Garden Island. If you have the time to spend 3 nights in Kauai there is plenty to keep you busy. You can spend the day hiking to the waterfall atop the red colored Waimea Canyon which is known as the Grand Canyon of Hawaii.   You can go snorkeling in the warm waters off the Kee Beach. We highly suggest a sailing trip around the island.  Most trips will provide for great pictures of the island as well as a chance to snorkel. The sunsets on the island are amazing.  A few of our favorite resorts include: The Kauai Marriott Resort
The Grand Hyatt Kauai

The Island of Hawaii

Also known as the Big Island .  This is the largest and youngest of the islands.  The island is very diverse and has much to offer. You can visit Kilauea which is one of the most active volcanoes in the world.  You can take a walk or even ride a horse on a black sand beach.  This is a great place to snorkel and you might find yourself with a manta ray.   We also suggest a sailing trip along the Kona coast.   As in all the islands we suggest that you rent a car and go out and explore on your own.  For something interesting stop at the Aikane Plantation Coffee Company to taste 100% Hawaii coffee.  There are also several ranches to spend time at to learn more about the past.A few of our favorite resorts include:

Hilton Waikoloa Village
Fairmont Orchid Resort
Sheraton Kona Resort at Keauhou Bay

Oahu

Many people call this island Hawaii which is incorrect.  We highly suggest that you stop here and spend a few days as there is much to do.  Oahu is the home to Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona and Battleship Missouri Memorials. It is also home to the Polynesian Cultural center which is a place that should not be missed.  You should also attend a Luau on the island.    Each hotel has their own Luau but our favorite is the Paradise Cove Luau at the Ko Olina Resort.  You should also walk around the historic area of Honolulu.  If you are into surfing make sure to drive to the North Shore and see the big waves break.   This area is about a one hour drive from Waikki.   If you would like to take a nice hike don’t miss the Makapu’u Point.  It is around a 2 mile hike and has great views of the Waimanalo Bay.Some of our favorite resorts here include:

The Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort
The Hilton Hawaiian Village
The Royal Hawaiian

Things not to miss on your Hawaii Vacation

Learning to Hula Dance
Taking a surfing lesson
Snorkeling with the sea turtles or manta rays
Attending an Luau
Hiking to a Volcano
Taking a sailing trip for whale watching
Learning about the history of the island and Pearl Harbor