The Splendor of the Hawaiian Islands
Posted on 06/24/2024
Hawaii is a veritable paradise in the Pacific. It is also the most remote island chain in the world, furthest from any landmass on the planet. Situated in the middle of the largest ocean on planet earth, Hawaii offers a slate with more adventures and wonder than you can fit into a lifetime. It is the speed of life on the islands, however, that stands out most when considering a trip to Hawaii. The laid-back feel of the island vibes and the friendly nature of Hawaii’s inhabitants is typically what most visitors find so agreeable. The islands are truly a place to take in the island breeze and get away from the everyday.
The 50th State is a favorite spot for vacations for people from all over the United States, not to mention the rest of the world. Hawaii offers many chances to share updates on social media with your feet crossed sipping a Mai Tai on Oahu’s world-famous Waikiki Beach, for example, arguably the most storied two miles of sand in the whole world. You’ll have your pick of activities to soak in both the sun and the unique experience of island life.
Ecotourism is a big draw for the islands as the landscapes and seascapes all amount to a picturesque palate to amaze and wonder upon. Lush colors are truly more vibrant and welcoming in Hawaii. Local hiking adventures are beyond comparison. See the natural wonders of waterfalls and rainforests, or rest on golden, volcanic black, and even blackish-red sand beaches.
Surf incomparable waves, some of the most amazing surf available. Stand-up paddleboarding is an alternative that works your core and upper body, as does a fun-filled kayaking escapade with your travel party. Take a helicopter tour to see tall waterfalls cascading and fly over where an active volcano’s lava meets the ocean. If you’re feeling especially adventuresome, level up to a doors-off option for your helicopter tour for an even more extreme experience. Enjoy the finest dining in the perfect tropical setting.
Try your hand at snorkeling, spearfishing or take an introductory SCUBA class to begin a diving exploration of the deep blue Pacific Ocean. Venture out among the living, breathing coral reefs and the ample colorful tropical fish that inhabit these areas. Or take a boat out for some deep-sea fishing. Lounge away on a catamaran or take a wild ride on ziplines through canyon valleys. Spend the day relaxing at the pool or rent a cabana. Finish the day with a celebratory feast under the fire of tiki torches and dance of the fire knives at a luau, where the live entertainment steals the show.
Maybe you’re up for some island hopping and looking to get a little taste of everything on the archipelago. Perhaps you’re just looking to see which island scene is more your speed. This breakdown should provide you with a little bit of what to expect when you visit the Aloha State. AAA members are encouraged to contact their travel agent and ask about special offers through Pleasant Holidays, which has been providing travel and vacation deals to the Hawaiian Islands for over 60 years.
OAHU
Oahu is the most populated and most popular island in Hawaii. With two thirds of the Hawaiian population as well as the capital of Honolulu, Oahu is where the action is. Most flights originate and land on Oahu despite that it is just the third largest island in the chain.
Hawaii’s history is rich and deep, going back to the time where kingdoms ruled and the island’s culture and language were developed. The Bishop Museum in downtown Honolulu is a great place to get oriented, as it has the largest collection of Hawaiian artifacts and Pacific natural history samples in the world. One of Oahu’s biggest draws is the WWII Memorial at the sunken USS Arizona at the port in Pearl Harbor. Oahu also features the Diamond Head volcano cone, an unmistakable geographic wonder as well as an exciting volcanic origin story.
The surfing along Oahu’s famed North Shore is legendary. While you’re there, be sure to check out the Dole Plantation for amazing pineapple whip samples and get lost among the plentiful rows of towering palm trees.
Make your island getaway on Oahu at some of the world’s most luxurious four- and five-star hotels. Two great places to stay on Oahu with the lowest hotel room rates guaranteed are 'Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach and The Twin Fin. Exclusive vacation deals with the guaranteed lowest room rates and great added values are available when you book through Pleasant Holidays and your AAA Travel agent.
MAUI
Maui is prospering and welcomes visitors with open arms to explore its lush outdoors. Romance is also a big draw as Maui is a big destination wedding and honeymoon spot. Maui is known for its luxurious accommodations that amount to the perfect setting to make or renew your vows. Pamper yourself and your significant other with relaxing spa treatments or plan to dine at some of the world’s most exclusive restaurants.
The dormant Haleakala Volcano, the largest of its kind, and whale watching make Maui a chosen destination for travelers looking to capitalize on once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to view these natural wonders. The view from Haleakaka’s summit is beyond compare.
Consider a night cruise complete with cocktails or multi-course dinner to cap off an unforgettable evening. Be sure to set aside one evening to celebrate at a traditional Luau with traditional Polynesian and Hawaiian dancing for a feast with all the island’s best delicacies and drinks. Stay at Aston Kaanapali Shores and The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Ka’anapali on Maui when you book a complete vacation package through Pleasant Holidays and travel with peace of mind knowing that you’ve received the lowest available room rates guaranteed. Book your complete travel package through your AAA Travel agent.
One of Maui’s most distinctive geographic features, the Iao Needle, can be seen when visiting the Iao Valley at the state park in central Maui. From there, take a day trip to travel up the coast to explore the Nakalele Blowhole and lighthouse at the northern tip of Maui.
The famed Road to Hana, a trip through tropical rainforests to a small village on the eastern ridge of Maui, is an experience all in itself. Travel on winding roads, over quaint bridges, and past themed gardens along the way. Take a guided tour of the Hana Highway for a truly unique peek at the island’s vast beauty and bountiful natural treasures for the ultimate scenic route.
ISLAND OF HAWAI’I
The tallest mountain in the world when measured from base to peak, Mauna Kea, is located on the Island of Hawai’i and is considered a spiritual center of the islands. Its companion to the south, Mauna Loa, at just 124 feet shy of Mauna Kea’s elevation, is the mountain with the largest mass on the planet. These snow-capped giants are just a few of the extremes on the Big Island, as it is known colloquially. In fact, the Island of Hawai’i has more land area than all the other islands combined. From atop the peak of Mauna Kea the view of the stars is unbounded. Catch a glimpse of the skies from a telescope high above for an unimpeded view.
It may seem surprising given it is a known entity as a tropical paradise, but 11 of the world’s 13 climate zones are represented on the Island of Hawai’i. The diverse landscape and wide-ranging altitudes, coupled with the vast amounts of activities that make the Big Island a big draw for both adventure seekers and family vacations.
Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Island of Hawai’i for some of the most memorable experiences you can imagine. Walking through a lava tube or hiking volcanic craters you can truly catch a glimpse of some of the most consequential and massive geological forces at work on planet earth. The park features the two active volcanoes, Kilauea, and the previously mentioned Mauna Loa.
On the Island of Hawai’i, consider staying at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa where Pleasant Holidays guarantees the lowest available room rates when you book through your authorized AAA Travel Agent.
From Waikoloa Beach, just a short drive north brings you to the Puako Petroglyph Park where ancient history is carved into volcanic rock that tell the stories of the prehistoric inhabitants of the island. From there, a quick jaunt north is Hapuna Beach State Park, where you can walk along the amazing expansive white sands of the Kohala coast. Take a trip inland to take a horseback tour with Paniolos – Hawaiian cowboys – or visit an organic coffee plantation while on the Island of Hawai’i.
Cut across the countryside to the town of Hilo, where history, culture and natural science coalesce in a diverse museum experience. Wailuku River State Park is home to both the Rainbow Falls (Waianuenue) that drop 80 feet while leaving rainbow traces in the mist and the Boiling Pots, where the runoff from rainwaters converges with the flow of the Pe’epe’e Falls in basalt-lava rock pools to bubble and give off the appearance that the water is rapidly boiling.
KAUAI
The oldest of the islands that were formed by volcanic activity is Kauai. Kauai is known for its natural wonder and virtually untouched open space, perfect elements to find yourself. Flora and fauna abound on the island, including some species that can’t be found anywhere else, making it a chosen destination for nature lovers. Kauai is also home to Waimea Canyon, which is known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. The site where it is located, along the Napali Coast, combines stunning views from lookout point and challenging hiking paths that feature equally amazing peaks and valleys with views that are beyond compare. While its remote location makes it largely inaccessible by land, the Napali Coast can be reached through a boat tour originating from Port Allen in the town of Eleele on Hanapepe Bay.
Golfing is also a big draw for Kauai, with nine different courses to choose from. Poipu Beach is both well-known and home to the many hotels and resorts on the island. While on Kauai, visit Opaeka’a Falls for some of the most easily accessible waterfalls on the island. For a more remote adventure, consider a stop at Fern Grotto, only accessible by kayak or boat going up the river from Wailua. The off-the-beaten-path natural beauty of the island gives Kauai its characteristic charm.
No matter which islands you choose as a home away from home during your travels, make sure to talk to your designated AAA Travel agent to get up-to-the-minute pricing on package deals including airfare, accommodations and activities. If you’re there to explore, or whether you’re aiming for a relaxing time just watching the tide go in and out, Hawaii offers the some of the most rewarding options for your travel experience. While you’re enjoying your Pacific paradise, you’re bound to catch a healthy dose of the mindfulness and openhearted welcoming attitude that Hawaiians call the Aloha spirit.
