Accommodation options

The usual suspects are available for all travelers to Hawaii. Big, massive, all inclusive resorts. Fancy 5-star hotels. Cheaper, simpler hotels. Hostels. Even camping. One option that is becoming more and more popular among travelers all over the world, including Hawaii, is renting.

Whether you’re coming solo to explore, to spend some time with your significant other, family, friends, or a large group, there is always a rental option for you, and it might turn out to be more affordable than any other available option. Renting, whether it’s a studio apartment, condo, small house, or massive estate, allows you to really experience the region, country, or city you are visiting. With the high cost of getting to Hawaii, saving a few bucks on your accommodation options may be a welcome respite. Add in the possibility of shopping in local markets and cooking your own food, and you may be able to save quite a bit.

Where to go

Hawaii is a collection of over 19 islands, 8 major ones, with 6 open to tourism, so you have plenty of options to suit whatever it is that appeals to you while on the road.

The Big Island

Hawaii, called The Big Island, is the largest of the Hawaiian Islands. Volcanoes National Park is one of the main highlights of The Big Island and home to the world’s largest volcano (Mauna Loa at 13,677 feet – 4169 meters). It also has the most active volcano in the world in Kilauea. If lava is something you’ve always wanted to see, then this is the place to see it, as a drive around Crater Rim and down the Chain of Craters road will allow you to see fresh lava flow covering the road and active lava heading into the ocean – an amazing experience!

There are plenty of outdoor activities to be had as well, like exploring Mauna Kea, the largest mountain in the world measured from its base, Akaka Falls, a 440 foot waterfall, and plenty of beaches to explore and unwind on.  Kehena and Punalu’u beaches, both made of volcanic, black sand, are just waiting to be visited.

Rental options for the Big Island vary from cheap and basic ($39USD/night for a one bedroom suite) to crazy expensive and super posh ($10k/night for a 7 bedroom, one acre, gated estate). There are also a lot of great rental options for under $100/night on The Big Island, so renting instead of going the hotel route can save quite a bit of coin.

Oahu

Oahu, home to state capital Honolulu, is the most populated island in Hawaii and thus the most developed. Beaches are plentiful in Oahu, with Waikiki Beach being the most well known and perhaps biggest tourist destination in the entire state, while the North Shore are a great place to go for hard core surfers. While most visitors come to Hawaii to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, there are plenty who still like visiting a big, urban oases, and Honolulu provides that.

Outside of the capital, there are plenty of ways to get away from that hustle and bustle. The Koolau and Waianae mountain ranges provide some nice respite from the chaos, with great hikes just outside of Waikiki. While Waikiki is worth a visit, there are still plenty of other beaches to check out what won’t be as crowded or hectic. Kualoa Regional Park, on the northeast side of Oahu, might be your best bet for beach seclusion, while Lanikai Beach has some of the most picturesque waters around. If you’re a surfer, then head to the famous North Shore to tackle some of the biggest waves in the world (winter months are the peak for huge waves and surfing competitions).

Like The Big Island, rentals for Oahu can be had cheaply if you’re traveling on a budget. You can find nice little studios for as low as $60/night, and there are a plethora of options for under $100. Of course if you’re looking to spend the big bucks and really pamper yourself, there’s plenty of options for you, too. Families or larger groups looking to rent a house can do so for around $400/night (3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and many with their own private pool!).

Maui

Maui is the second largest island next to The Big Island and has pretty much everything a travel lover would ever want in a tropical destination. Amazing beaches? Check. Crystal clear waters? You betcha. Outdoor activities? Got ‘em. Incredible natural wonders? Yup. Top notch cuisine? Mmm, hmm. I’m guessing you get the point.

Hiking options abound in Maui, with Valley State Monument and Haleakala National Park, which has a massive volcanic crater and offers views of five of Hawaii’s eight islands from the summit. If you’re looking for other outdoor activities, try your hand at canoeing, kayaking, mountain biking, and snorkeling. If Maui is on your Hawaii itinerary, then you may want to consider driving what some call the most beautiful drive in the world to Hana. Hana is a tiny village that is worth a visit, but it’s the drive that keep people going there (though if you choose to stay a few nights, you won’t be bombarded by other tourists, particularly in the morning hours). This drive through the rainforest, past soaring cliffs and beaches, is a day well spent.

Who said Hawaii has to be expensive? Rentals in Maui are no different than The Big Island or Oahu. If you’re looking to do Hawaii on the cheap, then check out apartment options for as little as $50/night. Again, there are a lot of affordable options for rentals here, with many places available for under $100 per night. Larger houses are even cheaper here than other Hawaiian islands, as 3 bedrooms are available for as low as $115/night, depending on the season.

Many think of Hawaii as a luxurious destination, and while the sites, natural beauty, and food are certainly luxurious, the price tag that comes along with it doesn’t have to be that way. Renting an apartment, condo, or house on any of Hawaii’s islands can be an affordable venture, certainly cheaper than a big resort or hotel. Plus you get the added benefit of living like a local while you’re there, immersing yourself in the culture in a way that’s simply not possible when staying in a big resort or hotel.

Flipkey is a great resource for finding rentals around the world. With over 4,500 properties in Hawaii, FlipKey has great local options for indie travelers. FlipKey puts you in touch with vacation rental owners who can provide excellent local information and tips – not to mention good deals on lodging. They also provide travel tips and news on the FlipKey Blog.  

Photo credits:  Flipkey, Alfred Elkerbout, Brocken Inaglory, Didier B

Here is a list of some of the best Hawaiian surfing destinations (in no particular order) to for you and your board to catch some fantastic waves.

HALEIWA

This beach is located on the island of Oahu, and is known as the home to Van’s Triple Crown Series, one of the most highly esteemed surfing competitions in the world. Haleiwa is also host to the Surf-n-Sea International Open, an amateur competition for surfers looking to go professional. This area has legendary waves, but is best left to the advanced surfers – beginners may not fare so well in the large swells.

EHUKAI BEACH PARK

Ideal for medium to experienced surfers, Ehukai Beach Park is a terrific place to get the essence of Oahu’s North Shore Pipeline. The swells will be a challenge for intermediate surfers who want to challenge themselves with some bigger waves. Ehukai Beach Park had a starring role in the ’60s film “Surf Safari,” where the narrator shouted “Banzai!” as a surfer tried to surf the legendary pipeline.

WHITE PLAINS BEACH

White Plains was previously a part of Hawaii’s Barber’s Point Naval Air Station, but today it ranks as a friendly spot for beginners to start their surf training. The beach offers gentle waves and if you’re looking for surf lessons, the Hawaiian Fire Surf School can show you the way. This unspoiled beach is mostly tourist free and a quiet paradise compared to the other crowded surfing beaches.

WAIKIKI

Waikiki is no doubt one of the most visited and oldest attractions for surfers, and is for everyone from beginners to expert shredders. There are gentle rolling waves for the amateurs and stronger swells for the more seasoned surfers. The beach is a popular tourist destination, making it a great atmosphere for a little rest and relaxation when you come up for air from surfing the day away.

HOOKIPA

Hookipa features four main surf breaks and boasts awesomely consistent waves. The four breaks are known as Girlie Bowl, Pavillions, H’Poko and Middles. Not for the faint of heart, this beach is better left to experienced and advanced surfers. The breaks lineups all have a fantastic range of swells, but the best loved and surfed is Pavillions. The trick is to go early in the morning and get in the water before the wind hits, as the big WNW windswells it in late morning and continue into the afternoon. Late in the afternoon, Kona winds take over, and conditions are one again perfect to catch some waves.

Have you been surfing in Hawaii?

Photo by: hawaii savvy

Maui is home to the world’s best snorkeling spots but even Maui has a top ten. Here are the ten most amazing Maui snorkel spots we know.

Molokini Crater sits firmly at the top of the list as the best snorkeling spot in Maui. No other Maui snorkel spot can compare to this underwater volcano, one of only three on the planet. The water surrounding the island is filled with schools of vibrantly-colored fish and is crystal clear down to 200 feet. Molokini is a once in a lifetime experience for both the beginner and the expert.

Five Caves is bit far from the beach so it is suggested only for expert snorkelers or scuba divers. However, it is one of the most unique snorkeling spots in Maui. The reward for the long swim is an amazing selection of sea life and mysterious swim-through caves that can be experienced with little interruption from tourists.

Turtle Town is home to one of the largest populations of sea turtles in Hawaii. This is a family- friendly oasis with tons of other sea life and a once in a lifetime chance to swim with these much loved creatures of Hawaii.

Coral Gardens, another far swim for more advanced snorkelers, is loaded with colorful fish in thousands of feet of coral reef. Located on the Western coast of Maui, this spot is occasionally visited by Hawaii’s remarkable humpback whales.

Olowalu is one of the more accessible Maui snorkeling spots for less experienced snorkelers. The calm waters are shallow, making it a great place to teach or practice snorkeling. However, Olowalu’s several acres of beautiful reef have much to offer even to experts, within its several acres of beautiful reef.

Polo Beach is an ideal spot for families because it is right in front of the Kea Lani Hotel and is good for snorkeling or simply relaxing in the sand. Waters are clear and there are plenty of facilities and accommodations nearby.

Ahihi Keanau Reserve has a great bay for first time snorkelers, although it has no facilities so it isn’t recommended for families. If you are looking for a romantic hangout under the water this is a great choice. There are several opportunities to practice right along the beaches, but be careful because the beaches are rocky.

Black Rock offers great facilities and plenty of parking. It has a smooth sandy beach, great for relaxing after enjoying the beautiful patches of coral under this lava outcrop. One word of caution: the waters are sometimes murky, so you’ll need to go on a day when seas are calm. Black Rock is a great place for both the beginner and intermediate snorkeler to gain some experience in the water without sacrificing the comfort of beach facilities.

Airport Beach, also known as Kahekili Beach Park, is visited frequently by families and is a hot spot for scuba instructors to train their pupils. The water is calm enough for beginners and young kids to learn and there are plenty of facilities. This local favorite might be one of the calmest and safest dive spots, but it’s by no means boring.

Honolu’a Bay is another one of those spots that you have to catch when the sea is calm but it’s worth the wait. Long favored as one of Maui’s best snorkeling spots, it has no facilities and it is only good for scuba diving or snorkeling due to the rocky beaches and lack of sand.

Many of these spots can be safely experienced by beginners, but if you would like a guide or some instruction or you would just enjoy going with a group, then Pride of Maui would be love to show you the best Maui snorkeling experience you’ll ever have.

Photo by: asimulator

Ten days in Maui is ample time to explore the island, not only for its “greatest hits”, but to also slow down and really get to know some of the people and places that make Maui special.

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If you’ve got a shorter amount of time, you may want to check out our suggestions for 3 Days in Maui, and here’s an overall guide to what to do on Maui.

Day 1 – Haleakala, Makawao

For this portion of your trip, base yourself in the west Maui area, either in the resorts of Kaanapali or in nearby Lahaina.

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On your first full day, you’ll likely be up early due to the time difference. This is a perfect day to get up early to watch the sunrise at Haleakala. At 10,000 ft elevation, temperatures here can frequently dip below freezing so be sure to bundle up accordingly. Get here before dawn light breaks and you’ll be rewarded with some of the best star-gazing around.

Stop for breakfast on the way back down at Kula Lodge, where you’ll get to see the island below wake up to the morning light. If you’re up to it, there are a few options for hiking in Haleakala Crater as well. Stop for Komoda Bakery’s famous stick doughnuts in the paniolo (cowboy) town of Makawao, perhaps to fuel up before trying the Piiholo Ranch Zipline.

Day 2 – Lahaina and Kaanapali

After a morning swim at Kaanapali Beach, head out for a West Maui Coffee Tour where you can take in both large and small-scale operations of Maui coffee farmers, as well as enjoying a light, healthy lunch.

Spend the afternoon snorkeling, swimming, parasailing, or perhaps taking a whale watch cruise if you are visiting during whale season, December – March. Grab a pau hana cocktail and take a sunset stroll on Front Street in Lahaina.

End your day with dinner and a show – perhaps a luau, such as the Old Lahaina Luau or the production Ulalena, which blends Hawaiian myth and legend with dramatic music and dance.

Day 3 – Road to Hana

You’ll want to get an early start on the journey to your next destination, Hana.

The long and windy two-lane Road to Hana features miles and miles of hairpin turns, with roadside waterfalls, fruit stalls, and many photo-perfect lookout points to stop for a rest. Check out of your west Maui hotel before heading out, as you’ll want to spend a night or two in Hana at the end of the spectacular drive, rather than heading straight back.

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Another benefit to starting early is that the road can get quite crowded, so give yourself time and make a day of it, allowing yourself to stop wherever you feel like it rather than rushing to beat the crowds.

Day 4 – Exploring Hana

Many people drive the road to Hana, only to turn around and head straight back. This is a shame, as the tiny village of Hana is worth exploring, and a glimpse into a way of life that you won’t find in the resorts of Kaanapali or Wailea.

In the morning, you can explore the black sand beach and lava tube at Wainapanapa State Park or stop for a dip at “Seven Sacred Pools” at Oheo gulch. It will be much less crowded than later in the day when day-trippers arrive (or pass through.)

Stop at the famous Hasegawa General store for a picnic to take to Hamoa Beach. Spend a relaxing evening enjoying the calm that pervades Hana.

Day 5 – Kaupo and Upcountry Maui

Rested and rejunvenated from your stay in Hana, take the “back way” rather than heading back on the Road to Hana. The terrain out here is rougher and the landscape arid, in stark contrast to the lush green of Hana town.

Stop at Charles Lindberg’s grave on the way to Kaupo and Ulupalakua. Allow yourself a stop at Tedeschi Vineyards, Maui’s Winery, where they make wine from both grapes and pineapples!

Continuing on through the beautiful town of Kula, you will enjoy the view of the island below from Rice Park, or after taking the excellent tour at the Alii Kula Lavender farm. Surfing Goat Dairy is a fun excursion for kids, who will love petting the goats while adults work through samples of award-winning goat cheeses. If you’re into fine dining, stop at Chef Bev Gannon’s Haliimaile General Store before heading back down to sea level for your next home base, South Maui.

Day 6 – South Maui Sunshine

South Maui’s resort towns of Kihei and Wailea are full of opportunites for you to get in the water and enjoy the sunny southern coast. This is a great day to sign up for snorkel trip to the tiny island crater of Molokini off the coast, which provides unparalleled opportunities for viewing colorful tropical fish. You can also try kayaking, body boarding or body surfing at Makena or Big Beach.

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Stop at Maalaea’s Maui Ocean Center for their fantastic aquarium or programs before enjoying dinner at Monkeypod Kitchen.

Day 7 – Central Maui and Iao Valley

For a beautiful ocean-front breakfast, try the crabcakes benedict at Longhi’s in the Shops at Wailea. Continue out to the central part of the island for a walk through Iao Valley’s gardens, streams, and and hiking trails.

The nearby town of Wailuku is the seat of county government, now seeing a slow resurgence of boutiques and businesses to the district. If you’re here on the first Friday of the month, plan to stop here for the town’s First Friday celebration, which is like a block party with entertainment and food. Or try to catch a show at the historic Iao Theater.

Day 8 – North Shore, Paia, and Haiku

If you’re visiting during the winter, don’t miss a drive out to the north shore, where you’ll see big waves and big wave surfers in action. Stop in the old sugar plantation town of Paia on your way, now bustling with boutiques, restaurants, and sometimes even traffic jams!

Stop for lunch or grab items for a picnic and continue to Hookipa Beach Park, popular with windsurfers. A little further down the highway, you’ll find the huge breaks at Jaws. (Scary name, no?) The name isn’t referring to shark sightings, but the huge swells that pummel the coastline here. You can watch tow-in surfers bravely riding these amazing waves.

If time permits, I always love the drive through rural town of Haiku, if only to stop at Fukushima’s for hot dogs and chow fun.

Days 9 & 10 – On your own!

For the last 2 days of your trip, you’re on your own! By now you’ve had a great introduction to various parts of the island and are likely itching to go back for more. If not, spend the last days lounging around the beach, pampering yourself with massages, shopping for souvenirs to take home, or making up your “to do list” for your next trip to Maui.

If time and budget allow, you may even consider a short island hop. Both Lanai and Molokai can be reached by ferry for a day trip, or the other major islands are all a plane ride away. See below for how to get to any of the other islands.

>> Getting from Maui to Oahu (Honolulu)
>> Getting from Maui to Hawaii Island
>> Getting from Maui to Kauai
>> Getting from Maui to Lanai
>> Getting from Maui to Molokai

Road to Hana photo by paul (dex), Kihei photo by Yinghai

When to go?

While you can find Hawaiian sunshine just about every day of the year, the summer tends to be slightly warmer and drier than the winter, when the rainy season takes over. Summer is also prime time for crowds so if you’re looking to avoid those, you may want to stick to the shoulder seasons during the spring or fall. If your itinerary includes seasonal activities, like checking out the big wave surf contests or whale watching, you’ll want to take that into account as well.

>> Get the details on Weather in Hawaii
>> View our full article on When to go to Hawaii
>> Get the basics with general Information on Hawaii such as costs

Which island should you choose?

Each Hawaiian Island has it’s own unique charm and attractions. The state capitol of Honolulu lies on the island of Oahu, along with the best nightlife, and the largest variety of restaurants and shopping centers. Hawaii’s Big Island is where you will find the world’s most active volcano, Kilauea. On Maui, you can drive the famous Road to Hana. If you love the outdoors, Kauai’s north shore has a wide array of hiking trails for both novice and experienced hikers. If you are looking for a slower pace or a more “off the beaten path” experience, try Lanai or Molokai, where you can often feel as if you’ve stepped back in time.

>> Check out our Maps of Hawaii
>>See our island guides for more information: Oahu (Honolulu), Maui, Hawaii Island (The Big Island), Kauai, Lanai, Molokai.

Getting to Hawaii

Since Hawaii is separated by thousands of miles of Pacific Ocean from the next major land mass, it comes as no surprise that a vast majority of visitors to the islands arrive by plane. While Honolulu International Airport has long been the major hub for travelers, especially international visitors, the neighbor islands have seen increases in flight capacity from the US Mainland as well as overseas. It’s also quite common for people to fly open-jaws, starting their trip on one island, then hopping over to one or two more before leaving from a different airport. It’s worth comparing this as an option, even if its slightly more expensive, as flying round trip interisland (in addition to your round trip TO the islands) will eat up valuable travel time that you could spend working on your tan!

>> See our complete list of
>> Search for cheap flights to Hawaii
>> For an alternative to flying, check out

>> More information on Hotels in Hawaii
>> More information on Hostels in Hawaii
>> More information on Vacation Rentals in Hawaii
>> More information on Accommodation in Hawaii

Getting Around in Hawaii

If you’re visiting the island of Oahu, you’ll have the widest options for public transportation because of an extensive island-wide bus system called, cleverly, The Bus. Otherwise, you’ll probably want to look into renting a car during your trip, even just for a day or two, so that you’ll be able to explore the area outside your home base. If you’re taking interisland trips, you will likely get around by air, with the exception of the ferries which run between Maui, Molokai, and Lanai.

>> More information on Car Rental in Hawaii
>> More information on Bus Travel in Hawaii
>> More information on Ferry Travel in Hawaii

Things to do in Hawaii

Once you’re here, there’s no shortage of things to fill your days and nights, and the beauty of a Hawaiian vacation is that you can choose to do as much or as little as you like. Active types may want to get out and try their hand at surfing, stand up paddle boarding, ziplining, biking or hiking. Sun worshippers will enjoy lounging on one of Hawaii’s pristine beaches. Take in some culture or opt for an organized or a visit to one of Hawaii’s historic sites. From December through March, sign yourself up for a whale watch cruise. You may want to go shopping for souvenirs to take back a little piece of Hawaii for your friends back home. After the sun sets, take in a luau show or explore Honolulu’s nightlife.

>> More information on Things to do in Hawaii
>> Check out our Itinerary Suggestions: 3 Days in Maui
>> Check out our Itinerary Suggestions: The Perfect 2 Weeks in Hawaii

driving photo by Alex1961

Here we will help you to craft your itinerary for your perfect two weeks in Hawaii, no matter what type of traveler you are. Follow the suggestions below, or mix and match elements of each to find the perfect Hawaiian vacation for you.

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Note that each itinerary is split between two islands. While you may be tempted to do more in order to squeeze in another island, be sure to weigh this against the extra time and expense it will eat up during your stay as you will need to allow for airport transfers, security lines, checking in and out of hotels, and ground transport once you arrive. Although some of the islands can be done as a day trip, to make the most of your time here, we would recommend slowing down and tackling one island per week, tops. Save the rest for your next trip, and slow down to island time.

Relax, you’re on vacation!

Two Perfect Weeks in Hawaii: Romance

Maui (10 days)

If you’re looking to getaway with your sweetheart, you’ll enjoy the relaxed pace on the island of Maui. While you’ll probably want to base yourself in Kihei/Wailea (in sunny South Maui) at the beginning of your trip, you will get to see much of the island with a week to explore.

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On your second day, when you’ll be up early due to the time difference, it’s a perfect day to watch the sunrise over Haleakala. Plan a full day to drive the famous, winding Road to Hana, with its miles of sharp curves, beautiful waterfalls and scenic points.

Instead of doing like most day-trippers, stay at least two nights at the beautiful all-inclusive Travaasa Hana Resort (formerly Hotel Hana Maui) in Hana town, where you can connect with nature as well as with each other. You won’t regret it! After your stay in Hana, it’s time to drive back, either the way you came or “the back way” around Haleakala, which will allow you to stop at Tedeschi Vineyards, Maui’s winery, on the way back.

Spend some time in Upcountry Maui and enjoy dinner at Haliimaile General Store or at one of the fine dining options near your next hotel, in Kaanapali or Lahaina on Maui’s West side.

Further reading on Maui:

• Cheap hotels in Maui
• Hostels in Maui
• Best luaus in Maui
• Snorkeling in Maui

>> Details on Getting from Maui to Lanai

Lanai (4 days)

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For your second stop, slow down even further and visit the secluded island of Lanai. Whether you arrive by ferry or by air, you’ll enjoy getting to know the natural beauty of Lanai. Here you’ll have just a few options for accommodation, but this is a good thing because two are luxurious Four Seasons properties. Most will opt for the Four Seasons Lanai at Manele Bay, with its location on Hulopoe Beach, although the Four Seasons Lodge at Koele is a completely different experience, up at a higher elevation in Lanai City, so you’ll get to snuggle together as the nights get a little chilly.

Lanai’s smaller size means you’ll be able to easily spend your days exploring beautiful beaches like Polihua Beach on the northwestern side of the island or Shipwreck Beach to the north. Other options include playing golf on world-class courses, going for a horseback ride, hiking, snorkeling, or scuba diving. Unwind with an oceanside massage or just relax at the pool.

Further reading on Lanai:

• Lanai pineapple festival
• Munro trail
• Garden of the Gods

Two Perfect Weeks in Hawaii: Active

Kauai (5 days)

For the adventurous, Kauai provides some of the islands’ best locations for getting outdoors and staying active. Experienced hikers looking for a challenge will tackle the 22-mile trail on the Na Pali Coast on Kauai’s north shore. Other great hikes include the Waimea Canyon, known as “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific.”

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Ocean activities include kayaking, surfing, body boarding, and land lovers will enjoy ziplines, helicopter tours, horseback riding, ATV Tours and some of the island’s best golf.

The Kauai Marathon takes place over Labor Day weekend in September and features both a Half and Full course that takes advantage of the natural beauty (and hilly terrain) of the southern side of the island, starting and ending in Poipu.

Further reading on Kauai:
Getting from Honolulu to Kauai
Things to do in Kauai
Finding cheap airfare to Kauai

>> Details on Airfare to Hawaii Island

Hawaii Island (9 days)

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Hawaii’s Big Island has over 13 different climate zones all in one island! Theoretically, you could go from hiking the challenging Mauna Loa trail in snow at 13,250 ft elevation, to viewing fresh lava flows from an active volcano, to swimming with dolphins, all in the same visit.

Because of the diversity of climates, there are a broad range of activities that will allow you to enjoy the outdoors and some of the natural wonders of Hawaii. Beginning your trip on the Kona Coast, where water activities like sport fishing, diving with manta rays, kayaking, or stand up paddleboarding are perfect for getting you acquainted with Hawaii Island. Many hikes are possible on the island’s northern side, ranging from multi-day treks through Waimanu Valley or more moderate ones, such as Pololu Valley.

Next, you’ll visit sleepy little Hilo town, where you can see a spectacular waterfall at Akaka falls or check out the famous Hilo Farmers Market. Stay a night or two in the nearby town of Volcano as a home base to visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, for which you should allow at least one day to explore, more if you choose to do some camping or hiking. Continuing around the southern side of the island, be sure to stop in Kealakekua Bay on your way back to Kona.

Further reading on Hawaii Island:

• Hotels near Volcanoes National Park
• Cheap hostels in Kailua Kona
• Camping in Volcanoes National Park

Two Perfect Weeks in Hawaii: Foodie

Oahu (9 days)

Honolulu is a foodie haven, featuring dining options ranging from hole-in-the-wall to five-star. A melting pot of cultures, here you will find a blending of the old and the new – both traditional Hawaiian foods and contemporary cuisine borrowing from every ethnic group that emigrated to the islands over the years.

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Start your foodie adventure in Waikiki, where you’ll have any number of fine dining options within walking distance. Be sure to check out the local food scene by consulting resources like Yelp.com, FoodSpotting.com, and even Twitter. Food trucks have seen a huge swell in popularity in recent years, and a monthly food truck rally is held on the last Friday of each month, allowing you to sample anything from gourmet burgers, fried spam musubis, local-made popsicles, and fanciful desserts.

Since food is more important than accommodation, you may opt to pad your food budget by staying a few blocks from the beach rather than across the street – this decreases hotel room prices dramatically so you can spend it where it really matters!

In between meals, work up an appetite by visiting Pearl Harbor, cruising the North Shore (hello, shrimp trucks and shave ice!), hiking up Diamond Head, or taking a surfing lesson.

Further reading on Oahu:

• Cheap hotels in Honolulu
• Hostels in Honolulu
• Day trips from Honolulu
• Nightlife in Honolulu
• Beaches in Honolulu

>> Details on Getting from Honolulu to Maui

Maui (5 days)

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Maui is a great second stop for a food-lover’s tour of the islands. Upcountry Maui is a treasure trove of farms, a winery, and a dairy! You can take in a tour at Surfing Goat Dairy or a culinary class or luncheon at Alii Kula Lavender. Travel out to Ulupalakua to visit Tedeschi Vineyards, Maui’s Winery, which even makes a wine from pineapples!

In West Maui you can take a tour of coffee orchards or visit local foodie favorite Star Noodle in Lahaina. Mom and pop eateries showcase a blending of local comfort foods – reflecting an ethnic makeup of primarily Japanese, Chinese, Portuguese, Filipino, and Hawaiian cultures which came together as workers on Maui’s sugar plantations swapped foods and cultural practices over the years. Food festivals here include the East Maui Taro Festival in April and the Maui Onion Festival in August.

couple on beach photo by whatjeanlikes, hiker photo by 2sirius

But if you are one of those people pondering the idea of planning a round the world (RTW) trip, then you may be able to add Hawaii to the itinerary for cheaper than you may think.

If you have looked into things like round the world plane tickets, then you may just be able to add Honolulu into your trip, and it could be much cheaper than just coming to Hawaii on your own. Or you could check into stopovers, which allow you to add a destination to your round the world ticket for free or very little money. Check with each company you are shopping to see what they offer.

If you do decide to add Honolulu to your RTW itinerary, then you will have plenty to do. While some suggest getting in and out of Honolulu, there are plenty of things to do here. Some come to Hawaii to get away from the hustle and bustle of regular life, but others actually enjoy big, bustling cities (I am one them). If this is you, then Honolulu is just as big and bustling as other major metropolitan cities. The difference is that you also have stunning beaches, nearby volcanoes, and plenty of outdoor activities. And don’t get me started on the food.

If Hawaii is on your radar as a travel destination and you are planning a trip around the world, then look into your options for adding it to your itinerary. You may be able to kill two birds with one stone, and Hawaii would be a great addition to the beginning or end of your big trip.

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The Hawaiian Islands are the proverbial island paradise and the best way to experience the crystal clear water and cool trade winds is on a Hawaiian cruise. Without having to worry about meals, accommodation and transportation, you can visit each island in style with one of the cheap cruises below. With all the amenities of a first class resort, getting there is a vacation in itself, and once you reach the islands the adventure begins. Cruises depart from major cities throughout the year. Here are three excellent Hawaiian cruises in 2012.

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises are organized so that the journey is just as much fun as the destination. They sail roundtrip from Los Angeles or San Francisco and visit Honolulu, Hilo, Kauai and Maui. They bring the spirit of Hawaii on board the ship with island activities, cultural events and lectures on the art and culture of Hawaii. They also offer freshly prepared Hawaiian cuisine. Ukulele lessons, making fresh flower leis, hula dance lessons and Hawaiian themed movies are just a few of the ways they bring the Hawaiian experience on board. Cruises leave San Francisco for 15 days roundtrip on March 19th, April 13th and 28th, October 6th and 21st and November 5th and 20th.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line offers inter-island Hawaiian cruises for seven days and nine nights. They promise a visit to each island where you can leisurely explore the forests, volcanoes and cities. On board NCL has a free style atmosphere where passengers can eat when they want and with whom they want and dress how they want. Accommodation, meals and entertainment is all included, so all you need to do is enjoy yourself and have a relaxing journey and exciting adventure in Hawaii. They depart from and return to Honolulu throughout 2012.

Holland America

Holland America has a 16 day cruise from April 19th to May 5th in 2012. They depart from Vancouver, British Columbia and are at sea for five days. They visit Hilo, Honolulu for two days, Nawiliwili Kauai, Lahaina, Maui and five days at sea back to Vancouver. They offer freedom to dine as you wish and several dining rooms with award winning cuisine. You will find on board a café with espresso and the New York Times, a spa and salon, fitness center with personal trainers, a digital workshop, culinary arts center, afternoon Dutch High Tea once during the cruise, 24 hour in-room dining, gaming in the casino, live music entertainment and DJs for dancing as well as movies and more.

Cruising Hawaii provides a warm cultural experience, and the best possible beach holiday destinations. It gives true value for money because it includes everything and more that you need for a spectacular vacation. For the same price you can visit multiple locations. You are able to visit the islands without unpacking each time and arranging and paying for flights. You can join groups and meet new friends or have a romantic, secluded honeymoon. The choice is yours, and that is the best reason ever to take a cruise to Hawaii.

photo by MPD01605

Here in Hawaii, Santa arrives in a canoe (really!) and although we celebrate just the same as anywhere else, many visitors from colder locales say that enjoying the holidays here is a completely different experience. How’d you like to say you spent Christmas in your bikini? Well you can, here in the islands.

If you’ve got a Hawaii-lover on your Christmas list, here are a few gift ideas that are sure to please:

For foodies

Because of its multi-cultural heritage, Hawaii has a vibrant and diverse culinary scene. Many foods popular in the islands today trace back to the sugar plantation days or beyond. This book is a fascinating look at the foods of Hawaii, including history and recipes.
Our pick: The Food of Paradise: Exploring Hawaii’s Culinary Heritage
Other choices: A popular local spice mixture, li hing powder, coconut syrup, or world famous kona coffee.

For the sports fan

Hawaii doesn’t have any professional sports teams, but that doesn’t stop the people here from being passionate about sports. It just means that we root even harder for our hometown college teams, the largest of which is the University of Hawaii. Tailgating at a UH home game is practically mandatory here to call yourself a true fan, and many families on the outer islands will get together for a potluck style BBQ in order to watch the game where one family has it on pay-per-view.
Our pick: University of Hawaii Sweatshirt

For the bookworm

Paul Theroux’s Hotel Honolulu remains one of my favorite books that take place in Hawaii. Although not the most authentic glance into island life, this satirical story takes place in Waikiki and entertains the reader with a crazy cast of characters, many of which are actually pretty typical if you spend time people watching in Waikiki.
Our pick: Paul Theroux’s Hotel Honolulu
Other choices: The classic Hawaii: A Novel by James A. Michener or Mark Twain’s Letters from Hawaii.

For the traveler

To help your Hawaii-lover get a jump start on planning their next getaway, why not choose a guidebook for them? There are many on the market, so you can take your pick of the individual islands or a general book to cover the whole state. I recommend Frommer’s Day by Day series for the variety of itinerary suggestions that they’ve included.
Our pick: Frommers Hawaii Day by Day
Other choices: Lonely Planet Hawaii or a guide to individual islands, such as Maui Revealed.

For music lovers

You may have heard Israel Kamakawiwaole’s haunting medley of Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World – it’s become an international hit and has been featured on TV, movies such as Meet Joe Black, and radio worldwide. Since his death in 1997, Iz’s popularity has never faded and has only grown stronger.
Our pick: Israel Kamakawiwaole: Facing Future
Other choices: Get in the mood with Christmas songs by popular local musicians such as Christmas Day in Hawaii Nei by the Makaha Sons or Christmas Gift by Na Leo Pilimehana.

For the film buff

It’s admittedly a bit cheesy, but Blue Hawaii can make any Elvis fan wax nostalgic. The 1961 classic puts a Hawaiian backdrop to the King’s most popular hits, including Can’t Help Falling in Love.
Our pick: Blue Hawaii
Other choices: So many movies have been filmed here in Hawaii. Try Pearl Harbor, 50 First Dates, surfing themed North Shore, or the newer release Princess Kaiulani.

For fans of the small screen

Although we’ve had a variety of television shows that have filmed here in Hawaii, perhaps none has captured audiences the way that LOST did. For the LOST fan, here’s a complete box set so they can get lost all over again.
Our pick: LOST complete series box set
Other choices: While the new version is a hit today, go retro with the Jack Lord classic Hawaii Five-0 or Magnum PI.

A little bit of kitsch

Need some company for your next road trip? Who doesn’t need a classic bobble-head hula girl, right? =) Watch those hips sway!
Our pick: Dashboard Hula Girl
Other choices: For your next luau-themed party, why not try an inflatable palm tree drink cooler or solar powered tiki torches!

And of course, the best gift of all would be a trip to Hawaii! Start your search with airfare deals to Hawaii.

Shaka Santa photo by cliff1066tm