An Insider's Guide to Where to Eat, Stay & Play in Hawaiʻi
Hawaiʻi doesn’t seem like it should be in the United States. The tropical archipelago in the South Pacific is a veritable paradise, a geological marvel brimming with greenery and wildlife.
Hawaiʻi consists of six major islands — Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, Molokai, Lānaʻi, Maui and the The Island of Hawaiʻi (also called The Big Island) — plus several smaller islands and atolls. The islands themselves are the result of volcanic activity in the middle of one of Earth’s tectonic plates. In fact, the Big Island is still technically being formed, in a way, by its active volcanoes, Mauna Loa and Kīlauea. A little over 20 miles southeast of the archipelago is the Kamaʻehuakanaloa Seamount, an active underwater volcano that may one day become Hawaiʻi’s newest island.
Here is where to go for a mix of everything: lounge the day away on the beach, embark on satisfyingly grueling hikes, explore laid-back towns, golf, snorkel, eat outstanding food, connect with the local culture…Hawaiʻi offers something for everyone.
Below is a collection of recommendations for where to stay, what to do and where to eat on Hawaiʻi’s five habitable islands — the Big Island, Oʻahu, Lānaʻi, Kauaʻi and Maui. This is just a sampling, of course — a little travel inspiration — as Hawaiʻi’s options abound. You won’t be at a loss for things to enjoy.
When you connect with me, I’ll design a dream itinerary tailored to you and your travel style. I’ll get an understanding of your vibe and preferences, and then craft your perfect vacation. Tap into the aloha spirit: Hawaiʻi is calling.
The quick and dirty:
Currency: $, US dollar (USD)
Languages: ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi & English
Airports: Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, Oʻahu (HNL); Kahului Airport, Maui (OGG); Kona International Airport, Big Island (KOA); Hilo International Airport, Big Island (ITO); Lihue Airport, Kauaʻi (LIH) (most travelers will likely fly into HNL, and then board another flight to reach their final destination)
Transportation: If you want to explore beyond your resort (highly recommend), then renting a car is a great idea, especially if several hiking routes have caught your eye. Taxi services, as well as ride-sharing services (Uber, Lyft) are also available.
Best time to visit: There’s no bad time to visit; it really depends on what you’re after. January through March is best for whale watching, while the winter months are best for big-wave surfing. September will see fewer crowds, with June, July, August and December being the busiest months to visit. (Unsurprisingly, the summer months tend to have the best weather, with the least rainfall.)
Ideal length of stay: Again, the best vacation length will depend entirely on what you’d like to do (or not do). On balance, five to 10 days is ideal, although shorter and longer trips can be just as doable — and enjoyable.
Signature dishes: shave ice, poke, saimin (noodle soup), laulau (taro-leaf-wrapped pork cooked in an underground oven), malasadas (Portuguese doughnuts)
Key phrases: aloha (hello/goodbye), mahalo (thank you), e kala mai (excuse me), e ʻoluʻolu ʻoe (please, eh oh-loo-oh-loo oh-eh), ʻohana (family), moana (ocean)
Dress code: your favorite swimsuit paired with comfy shorts, flowy pants or a dress — and don’t forget a hat and sunnies. For breezy nights, especially in the cooler nights, it doesn't hurt to pack a sweater.
