Hawaii is one of the hottest destinations at the moment and for many good reasons – the small island state has the key ingredients needed for an unforgettable vacation offering year-round sunshine and pristine beaches. But Hawaii is so much more than an island paradise, home to some killer hikes (active volcanoes included), sensational shopping, not to mention top-notch hotels and restaurants. Here are five different ways to do Hawaii based on your own travelling style.
If you love adventure…
Head to the Kilauea volcano on the Big Island of Hawaii for an exhilarating experience. This prolific volcano has been continuously erupting since 1983, making it one of the most active volcanoes in the entire world! From here, listen to the electrifying sound of Mother Earth’s living pulse pumping beneath your feet. Next, hike up Hawaii’s tallest mountain: Mauna Kea. Sitting at 4,200 metres above sea level, it’s one of the foremost locations on Earth to stargaze (offered nightly at the Visitor Information Centre or on a sunset and stargazing tour). For something a bit different, book a Hawaii Shark Encounter off the pristine coastline of Oahu’s North Shore, or get out of your comfort zone by trying flyboarding, submarine scootering, or deep-sea fishing.
Stay at the Wyndham Kona Hawaiian Resort*
If you’re a mad foodie….
Hawaii is a great place to test your tastebuds if you’re a food fanatic, offering plenty of multi-ethnic flavours and fresh island ingredients. Be sure to take a day trip to the farmers’ markets, such as Oahu’s KCC Farmer’s Market or Maui’s Upcountry Farmers Market – both great places to eat delicious Hawaiian food whilst meeting some of the island’s’ friendliest faces. If you love dining out, Alan Wong, Peter Merriman and Roy Yamaguchi are all talented chefs that champion Hawaii’s cuisine, so remember to book a table at one of their esteemed restaurants! Last but not least, get a taste of the poke craze at Tamura’s, where the deli counter offers more than 15 poke variations (thank us later).
Stay at the Aston Kaanapali Shores*
If you’ve got a passion for fashion…
If shopping is at the top of agenda, Hawaii offers it in spades. Shop ‘til you drop at the popular Ala Moana Center and Waikele Premium Outlets on the island of Oahu, or head to the less-crowded Waikiki, home to at least 12 shopping hotspots within walking distance of major hotels and resorts. Start at the Hilton Hawaiian Village and ride Waikiki’s retail wave all the way to the other end of the beach. Remember to visit Luxury Row for top fashion brands such as Chanel, Gucci and Hugo Boss. Our top tip? Pick up a Collections of Waikiki coupon book at any of the four resorts or download it from the website for free gifts (with purchase) and discounts up to 50 per cent.
Stay at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort*
If you wanna hang ten…
As the birthplace of surfing, there’s no better destination for a surf trip with mates than Hawaii. Kick off your holiday at Duke’s Beach Bar where you’ll learn about Duke Kahanamoku, the native Hawaiian surf legend and the father of modern surfing. If you’re a confident rider, don’t pass the opportunity to surf on Oahu’s fabled North Shore, home to well-known surfing spots including Waimea Bay, Banzai Pipeline and Sunset Beach. For newbies to surfing, join a group lesson at one of Hawaii’s popular seaside towns; Waikiki on Oahu, Lahaina on Maui, Hanalei on Kauai or Kona on Hawaii Island. And if you’re keen to try a different kind of watersport, give scuba diving, jet skiing and kitesurfing a go!
Stay at the Courtyard By Marriott Oahu North Shore*
If you’re into R&R….
With endless luxury experiences to be had, Hawaii is the perfect destination to get your girlfriends together for a ladies-only pampering vacation. From incredible resort pools with swim-up bars and underwater sound systems to floating bean bags and waterfalls, a stay in Hawaii will have you rejuvenated in no time. Treat yourself like a VIP by renting a poolside cabana, which comes with privacy curtains, day beds, personal food and beverage services. Our recommendation? Stay at one of the prestigious Four Seasons Resorts which offer stand out cabana packages. Just add poolside lunch and massages to complete the experience.
Stay at the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina*
*The hotel prices (including taxes and fees) are per night per room for double occupancy for the above and were found on nz.KAYAK.com on 10 July 2017 for travel in August 2017, for the respective hotels mentioned in the release. Prices are in NZD, may be subject to change and offers may no longer be available.
**The flight price (including taxes and fees, excluding baggage fees) for one return economy seat and was collated on 10 July 2017 for travel in August 2017 from Sydney to the destination listed, unless specified otherwise. Prices are in NZD, may be subject to change and offers may no longer be available.
