As you probably already know, Hawaii is a small chain of islands in the Pacific and it is one of the most popular tourism destinations in North America especially with US citizens. View my top tips for visiting Hawaii, including top places to go, essential things you need to do and how to save money.
Getting to Hawaii
The easiest way to get there is by air, but you can also get there via a cruise.
Best Island to Visit in Hawaii
If you’re one of the very lucky people who gets a chance to visit Hawaii one of the most difficult questions can be, “which island(s) are best to visit?”
If you’re stuck pondering this question, I’ve compiled a list of the islands which give you the best ways possible to differentiate the islands according to your traveling style!
Choose Kauai if:
• You want to go to a beach and relax without tourists jam packed (not all the time but it does happen)
• You consider yourself an entrepreneur of movies (over 100 motion pictures and TV shows have been filmed here)
• You are hungry for dramatic landscapes that prove exciting (the most obvious reason for it being a prime spot for filming)
• Outdoor adventures are your key to survival
• You like the small town feel and enjoy the country side
Choose Oahu if:
• You like to watch live surfing competitions
• You were born a walker but not a marathon runner, everything is in walking distance
• Crowds are not a problem to you
• You’re a history buff (Honolulu’s Historical District) or fancy leaning more about the local culture (Polynesian Cultural Center)
• You’re flying with family and are looking for kid-friendly activities (and sanity for you)
• You’re hungry and want options (there are a great variety)
• Nightlife is what you seek
• You can’t go home without some shopping done
• You aren’t afraid of heights and fancy a Oahu helicopter ride
Choose Maui if:
• You like seclusion (Hana)
• You have a fantastic swing and want to golf
• Ocean life is your desire (snorkeling and scuba options galore)
• You like small, boutique towns
• Whale watching sounds like a perfect time for memory making or picture taking (whale speaking optional)
• Your cup of tea is drinking it and perusing art galleries
Choose the Big Island (Hawaii) if:
• You’re looking for the heat of lava (active volcano Kilauea)
• Your hiking boots need mileage
• You want to do the nearly impossible, see snow and the beach all in one day
• Deep sea sport fishing is your thirst
• You want to check out the astronomy at the observatory
• You want to be the first of your friends to stand at the southernmost US town (Southpoint)
Hawaii Money Saving Tips
Just because you’re traveling on a budget doesn’t mean you have to skimp on your Hawaiian adventures. With so many sights to see and things to do in Hawaii, you can be sure that there’s a vacation in store for every kind of budget and every kind of traveler.
Say goodbye to old misconceptions that fulfilling Hawaii vacations are only reserved for those who are willing to spend the money. As long as you’re willing to spend the time and invest your energy, there’s a Hawaiian adventure waiting for you!
Here are some of my top recommended attractions and things to do in Hawaii:
Hike to Diamond Head
Standing at an elevation of 762 feet, Diamond Head is arguably the most famous attraction in all of Hawaii. As the defining symbol of the islands, this crater attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year as they attempt the 2 mile hike to the summit.
Many cite the experience as rewarding, especially when given the chance to see a one-of-a-kind, 360 degree sweeping picturesque views of Oahu. But beware; this hike is not an easy one, so bring plenty of water, sun protection, and comfortable walking shoes.
Catch a Polynesian Show at Waikiki Shopping Plaza
Even if you’re not a fan of shopping or malls, you should still take some time out of your day to pay a visit to the Waikiki Shopping Plaza. There, you’ll get a chance watch a FREE Polynesian show put on by Poly Pride Productions, which boasts a “rhythmic journey through the Pacific Islands.” You can also take part in ukulele, hula or Hawaiian craft lessons.
Waianapanapa Beach
Otherwise known as Maui’s famed Black Sand Beach. Set among lava cliffs, the sand on this beach are actual small lava pebbles. Though dangerous for swimmers due to strong currents and its rocky reefs, Black Sand Beach is still an amazing site to see. If you’re looking for a view, you can take a little hike following a narrow footpath on the west end of the beach. It’s been said that the view at the top is unparalleled.
Camping at Hoomaluhia Botanical Gardens
Designed and built by the US Army to provide flood protection for Kaneohe, Hoomaluhia Botanical Gardens is a perfect place for you and your travel companions to camp out for an evening.
Retreat to a perfect natural sanctuary while enjoying a fresh breeze at a place whose name means “to make a pace of peace and tranquility”.
As Oahu’s largest botanical garden, the plants that live here represent the major tropical regions of Polynesia, Melanesia, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, India, African and Tropical America.
Halona Blowhole
A natural blowhole formed by molten lava tubes from volcanic eruptions, Halona Blowhole gives visitors the perfect opportunity to see just how amazing Mother Nature can be. As waves crash in, the water shoots through the blowhole that can reach as high as 30 feet.
If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles. But beware, because the waters of the Ka Iwi Channel are very unpredictable, it is inadvisable to go too close to the blowhole. Stay at the lookout where it is safest, but even then, you won’t be disappointed with the experience or the view.