There was a time, between the 1980s and 1990s, when honeymooning in Hawaii was a global trend. Cruises to Hawaii were the prizes of many TV game shows. A week in Hawaii was the ideal vacation for big companies and the wealthy families. And what about today? Now that travel is affordable for everyone, now that bookings can be made very quickly and following discounts … are these islands, that dominate the heart of the Pacific Ocean, still a sought-after tourist destination? Yes, there are still people who love Hawaii and love returning to visit and experience them, especially between September and November when temperatures are slightly cooler but the monsoon rains have not yet arrived.
How to get there and how to get around?
The « gateway to Hawaii » is the capital Honolulu and, of course, its original International Airport (HNL), which welcomes flights from all over the world and handles international connections to Asia as well as domestic flights. Flying is the best way to get around the Hawaiian archipelago, and many private companies will take you there with small aircraft or helicopters. Those who prefer to stay close to the capital can travel comfortably with our customized chauffeured transfers. Those with time and money can also choose to travel by boat or ferry.
The Hawaiian islands
There are eight main islands in the Hawaiian archipelago: Hawaii (the largest), Maui, Oahu (where the capital Honolulu is located), Kauai, Molokai, Lanai, Niihau (which, however, is a private island), and the uninhabited Kahoolawe. The largest island, which gives its name to all of them, is home to the most active and spectacular volcanoes, such as Mauna Loa (the largest volcano in the world for its size), Kilauea, and Hualalai. Dozens of islets and atolls surround the eight main islands and are also fully part of the archipelago.
Politically, the islands have belonged to the United States of America since 1959. Washington’s government has full jurisdiction over them, although the population retains a certain amount of cultural and decision-making autonomy. For example, Hawaii does not observe daylight saving time and has no municipalities (only regions, called counties), so the elected « mayors » are actually the governors of the various counties. The most important cities, after the capital Honolulu, are Hilo and Kailua-Kona (on the island of Hawaii), Lihue (island of Kauai), and Kahului, the main town on the island of Maui.
Beaches, dances, and … much more
Listing the most beautiful beaches in Hawaii is almost pointless! All the islands, even the uninhabited ones, have stunning beaches, and any hotel will be able to point you to the best ones nearby. Names such as Waikiki (Honolulu’s beach), Lanikai, and Hanauma Bay are the most famous, and they’re all located on the island of Oahu. Other well-known beaches include Hapuna and Papakoolea on the Big Island of Hawaii, and Kaanapali on the island of Maui.
Experiencing the sea in Hawaii is the main goal of vacationing here, but it’s not the only thing to do on the islands. The culture of the local population is also fascinating: traditional dances with colorful costumes, harmonious songs in an ancient and melodious language, food tastings… . Ask your hotel where and how the nearest Luau (traditional festival) is held, and make sure it’s organized by real Hawaiians and not by American travel agencies or the hotels themselves!
If you are in Honolulu, visit the museums that tell the history of the islands: the Honolulu Museum of Art, the Berenice Pauhai Museum, and the Hawaii State Art Museum. In the capital, other must-sees include the beautiful 56-meters high lighthouse, built in 1926 and now known as Aloha Tower… the extinct crater of Diamond Head… Manoa Falls, located a few kilometers from downtown… and of course, Pearl Harbor – the port that historically played a key role in World War II.
Your alternative Hawaii
If you don’t want to « just spend time at the beach, » Hawaii offers many interesting alternative tours. Here are a few that will literally thrill you.
Volcanoes National Park
For example, those who aren’t afraid of fire can book a tour at the Volcanoes National Park on the main island, so to discover the many active volcanoes and perhaps witness a spectacular eruption!
Bamboo Forest
Another must-see is the Bamboo Forest on the island of Maui. Located along the famous Hana Highway, it offers visitors a picturesque landscape characterized by tall bamboo stalks reaching toward the sky. While walking along the trails, you can hear the soothing sounds of the wind blowing through the reeds, creating a tranquil and almost magical atmosphere. Sunlight filters through the leaves, creating plays of shadow that make the trail even more spectacular. This forest is often visited by hikers who wish to explore the island’s pristine nature and admire the nearby waterfalls. It is important to respect the environment, follow the designated trails, and refrain from littering to preserve the beauty of the place.
Glass Beach
The island of Kauai, meanwhile, is home to a unique beach made up of billions of shards of glass polished by the sea: it is located in Hanapepe, near Port Allen. Despite the incredible beauty of this colorful, sparkling gravel, knowing it’s the remains of marine pollution (bottles, shards, and ceramics thrown into the ocean years ago from God knows where!) is a bit saddening…!
The UFO Park
The UFO Peace Park (Hawaii Island) is a truly curious place. According to some accounts, the area has been the site of unusual sightings and mysterious experiences with aliens. Many visitors come here to meditate, relax, and admire the tropical landscape, characterized by lush vegetation and evocative views. Although there is no scientific evidence to confirm the presence of UFOs, the park continues to attract enthusiasts, tourists, and the curious.
The Sacred Native Stones
The Kukaniloko Birthstones Place (Ohau Island) is a fascinating archaeological site sacred to Hawaiian tradition. The wives of chiefs and kings even came here to give birth, so that these stones would be the first to receive the bodies of future warriors! The « birthstones » are a collection of volcanic boulders that mark the sacred area and testify to the site’s spiritual importance. Today, the site is protected and a destination of interest for scholars, history buffs, and visitors eager to learn about Hawaii’s ancient traditions. Although time has altered the surrounding landscape, Kukaniloko still retains an atmosphere of great serenity and respect. Visiting this place means experiencing a fundamental part of Hawaiian culture. Don’t miss it!
