Hawaiian Vacations

Hawaiian vacations include just what you need to enjoy a tropical atmosphere, from relaxing on the beaches to hiking through the rain forests. The islands all have their own draws, and whether you’d rather spend time on the lively beaches of the Big Island or enjoy the secluded four-star resorts on Lanai, the best trips to Hawaii all have the same things in common: plenty of sun, surf, and sand in a tropical paradise.

It’s possible to start your trip in different ways, by flying directly to Hawaii or booking a cruise vacation, and either way, you’ll have numerous choices for places to go and things to see once you arrive. For instance, Hawaiian vacations not only offer miles of beach ideal for swimming, sailing, and snorkeling, but also opportunities for observing the humpback whales that migrate to the waters near Maui, Molokai, and Lanai to give birth during the winter months.

Naming the top 10 Hawaii vacation spots is a tall order, as that all depends on what your interests are. Some travelers on romantic vacations would rather go horseback riding along the beach or go hiking through the lush forests, while travelers on family trips might prefer eco tours, spending time at the swimming pool, or playing a few rounds of golf. Overall, the best Hawaiian vacations include plenty of time to visit multiple islands and their attractions

Two of the top 10 vacation spots are Waikiki, on Oahu, and the island of Maui. Waikiki Beach is one of the best known destinations in Hawaii, boasting tandem and long board surfing on its rolling waves and an abundance of hotels and resorts. The city also features an upbeat atmosphere with jazz clubs, dance clubs, pubs, bars, and traditional Hawaiian music, and as nightlife isn’t always part of Hawaiian getaways, it might be worth staying here if you’re looking for extra excitement once the sun goes down.

Maui is known as the most romantic of the islands, which explains why it’s perfect for both honeymoons and destination weddings. Possible activities include golf, sailing, and wine tasting tours, and the town of Lahaina, which is known for its whaling history and the terrific luaus in the area. If Hawaii’s natural attractions are what draw you, consider Molokini, a volcanic crater located in the channel between Maui and the nearby island of Kaho’olawe and a terrific spot for scuba diving. Maui is also home to the largest dormant volcano in the world, Haleakala.

Several of the best trips to Hawaii include historic tours, and one of the most moving is touring the USS Missouri site of the unconditional surrender or Japan during World War II on September 2, 1945. Walk the same corridors and decks as the sailors of that era. Stand on the Surrender Deck where the official papers were signed. Peer out into the harbor where the USS Arizona lies as a memorial to those who lost their lives on December 7, 1941, at Pearl Harbor, and visit the Punchbowl Memorial.

One of the most popular of the top 10 Hawaii vacation spots for a romantic getaway is the island of Lanai. Secluded and with minimal residents, Lanai offers travelers a quiet respite from the crowds. Visitors enjoy hiking up Munro Trail or visiting Kaunolu Village with its ancient ruins and petroglyph carvings or strolling along Shipwreck Beach. Lanai City offers a quaint atmosphere, restaurants, and shopping. Two resorts, the Manele Bay Hotel and The Lodge at Ko’ele, provide five-star luxury accommodations and dining. Lanai also has a championship golf course perfect for those interested in golf vacations.

On the Big Island, the top 10 Hawaii vacation spots could also include a visit to Hilo or Kona, a trip to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a hike to Akaka Falls, or a trip along Alii Drive. The beaches here are top-notch as well, but there’s so much to do that you can easily balance a beach vacation with an exciting outdoor getaway.