Island Hopping, Kite Surfing, and Waterfalls
Hawaii is made up of six major islands and each one offers breathtaking beauty and a unique cultural experience based on rich traditions. Whether you want to embark on a whale watching adventure, scale a volcano or experience the vibrant Polynesian culture at a Luau, you’ll find the itineraries endless in Hawaii.
Things To Do
1. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Hike or drive through otherworldly terrain while getting up close and personal with some of the world’s most active volcanoes – Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Afterwards you can quench your thirst with a tasting at The Big Island’s Volcano Winery and enjoy some of the most uniquely produced wines due to the lava covered landscape.
2. Kona Ocean Adventures
Kona Ocean Adventures offers full-service boat tours for small groups. Their experienced guides provide all the comforts on their tours. If your Hawaiian bucket list includes night diving with Manta Rays, swimming with dolphins, whale watching, or snorkeling, you won’t want to miss what they have to offer.
3. Mauna Kea Summit
Hike during the day or even better, star gaze at night. Mauna Kea is an astronomist’s dream with unmatched views. Nearly 60% of this mountain lies beneath the Pacific Ocean. This giant measures over 33,000 feet from its base on the ocean floor, making it the tallest mountain on earth! Rent a bike from the summit and embark on several downhill adventures. Locals consider this a sacred place and travelers say this is one of the most memorable things to do while in Hawaii.
4. Pearl Harbor Historic Sites
The USS Arizona Memorial, the Battleship Missouri Memorial, the USS Oklahoma Memorial, the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum illuminate World War II from beginning to end. Learn about the attack on Pearl Harbor, how war changed Hawaii, the purpose of the memorial park, and what’s being done to preserve the site and history.
Napali Coast, Kauai
Hawaiian Dish
Best Food & Drink
1. Kona Coffee & Tea
Check out this family owned small batch coffee producer. They sustainably grow, mill, roast and brew their 100% Kona Coffee all within 10 miles of their farm. They also have award winning teas and a cafe for some lighter fare.
2. Da Poke Shack
If you love fresh fish then this take out style spot is for you. In 2014 Yelp rated this the top restaurant in the country! Food Network says it is a must when it comes to Hawaiian eats. Not a fan of seafood? That’s okay! They also have local inspired lau lau and kalua pulled pork.
3. Hilo Farmers Market
This year-round market features Hawaii’s freshest local produce, flowers, and food. With over 200 vendors, artisan crafts and an indoor food court, you can be sure to savor The Big Island culture all in one location. Try shaved ice, local honey, sushi, Thai flavors, BBQ and many other freshly prepared options as you experience why many food enthusiasts flock to this top rated destination.
Ways To Visit
1. Cruise
Honolulu Harbor is the main cruise terminal in Hawaii. Island hopping by cruise is a great and affordable way to see the islands, but one-way cruises are offered as well. You’ll find transportation between the islands a breeze with daily jets and small planes readily available.
2. Air Travel
Most visitors arrive through Kona International Airport. However, there is also the option of flying into Honolulu International Airport (HNL) in Oahu and then taking a short 35-40 minute flight to the island of Hawaii.
