Hawaii Destination Guide

A Polynesian Paradise of lush rainforests, secluded beaches, dramatic, volcanic scenery – you cannot fail to be captivated by Hawaii’s treasures. Whether you seek peace and tranquillity, history and culture or the buzz of an exciting, busy resort town, there is a Hawaiian island to fit the bill. Palm-fringed beaches, rocky shores, waterfalls, jungles and plantations combine with the easy Polynesian charm which attract so many to the land of Aloha, as the ideal spot to relax and unwind.

The shopping

The best area for shopping is in Honolulu, where designer stores are prolific, with limited opportunities on the other islands, although Maui boasts two upscale shopping areas. The most popular local crafts to buy are Polynesian wood carvings. Clothing and other brand items are usually more expensive than on the mainland, but usually less than in the UK! Don’t forget to buy Kona coffee and Hawaii’s own Macadamia nuts.

The nightlife

Waikiki also has the widest choice of international dining and entertainment and has a very lively night-life. Polynesian culture shows are very popular and available at most resort hotels on all islands. Maui.

In a nutshell...

Having travelled so far, it would be a shame not to see as much as possible. The three main islands can all be reached by reasonably priced inter-island flights and car hire is the best way to get around, especially for Maui and Kauai.  Hawaii is casual – leave your DJs and cocktail dresses at home and prepare to relax and unwind! Admire the stunning scenery, beautiful beaches and the easy way of life.
 

The facts

Geography: Hawaii consists of 132 islands that stretch across 1,600 miles of the Pacific Ocean, only six of which are open to tourism.
Language: English, although the Hawaiian language is now being taught in schools.
Passports: you will need a full British passport valid for a minimum of six months beyond your date of return.
Visa: Most full British passport holders with a machine readable passport may enter the US under the visa waiver scheme. However, anyone who has ever been arrested for or convicted of any offence will require a visa. Non-British passport holders should check with the relevant embassy for documentation requirements. We recommend that you check visa requirements carefully BEFORE making your booking.
Vaccinations: None are compulsory for the USA, but we recommend that you check with your doctor and ensure that standard vaccinations such as tetanus are up to date.
Travelling time: Approximately 21 hours including a stop on the west coast of the USA. Most visitors choose to have a few nights in a US city en route.
Local time: GMT –10 hours
Currency: US dollar.

Oahu is home to 80% of Hawaii’s population and appropriately nicknamed ‘the Gathering Place’. It is also where the vast majority of visitors start their Hawaiian holiday. Waikiki is the centre of the action. A host of hotels make it a bustling, busy and fun beach destination. Don’t come looking for peace and quiet or a romantic beach for two. Elsewhere on Oahu you can visit Pearl Harbour where, on December 7th, 1941, America joined the Second World War. Today Pearl Harbour is a National Memorial with boat trips offered to the sunken site of the U.S.S. Arizona. Another worthwhile place to visit is the elaborate Iolani Palace, home of the island’s former kings and queens and America’s only royal palace. Waikiki offers a variety of shops, bars and restaurants. Outside the Honolulu area, Oahu offers life at a quieter pace, especially at the beautiful Waimea Falls Park on the north shore. Another popular destination is the Polynesian Cultural Centre, which although a little commercialised, offers reconstructions of all the major Pacific Islands.

The second largest Hawaiian island known as ‘the Magic Isle’ offers 33 miles of superb beaches, crystal clear waters and a dramatic extinct volcano. From the delightful resort of Kaanapali, ride the historic sugar cane train to the old whaling town of Lahaina. Much of the original town still exists, which together with a wide variety of shops and restaurants, make this a popular place to visit. Make sure you visit Haleakala National Park, a setting untouched by commercialism and which offers some beautiful mountainous views. The highlight of your visit is the Haleakala crater with a stunning view of the extinct volcano. However, check the weather forecast before you depart as mist can often set in on the summit.

A spectacular island, the most lush and verdant - known as ‘The Island of Discovery ’. The most popular and sunniest areas are on the south and east coasts. In Lihue visit Kilohana, a legendary plantation estate and home of lush gardens, a working farm as well as shops and a restaurant. Outside Lihue, Kauai offers a wide selection of small towns and villages still living a life that centres around the plantation and the missionary church. It also offers the spectacular Waimea Canyon, known as the ‘Grand Canyon of the Pacific’, best seen by one of the many helicopter tours that are available, also the best way to view the dramatic ‘Na Pali’ coastline.