Hawaii Vacations Your Way

July 11th, 2008 by Susan - NWA WorldVacations

For many travelers, Hawaii vacations are a “once in a lifetime” dream vacation (until they visit once and then decide they absolutely MUST come back). For people who are realizing that dream and planning a vacation to the Aloha State, knowing which Hawaiian Islands to visit can be a daunting decision.

The short answer to the “Which island(s) should I visit?” question is easy – any type of traveler can find something to enjoy about every island, so you really can’t go wrong. But, below is a longer answer designed to serve as a starting point for your planning process and give you just a very few things to consider before you begin making plans.

If you’re honeymooning or on an anniversary trip…visit Maui or Kauai.
· A Maui vacation is relaxed, and Maui is an unwinding kind of place - exactly what you want to do once the wedding is over, the relatives have gone home, and the gifts have been opened.
· Couples will enjoy drives around the island, snorkeling, golfing and legendary beaches.
· Maui is home to one of the most spectacular and romantic sights - sunrise from the top of Haleakala ( HAH LAY A KA LAH), the largest dormant volcano in the world.
· If you’re a couple that enjoys outdoor, adventure-type activities, Kauai has lush vegetation and spectacular wildlife and scenery along the Na Pali Coast and the Waimea Canyon. Enjoy the view with your new spouse from a helicopter.

If you’re visiting with your entire family… visit Oahu and/or Maui.
· Oahu is home to the seven-mile long Waikiki Beach, full of activities, mild surf for beginners, and people watching. But you can also take a drive around the island and find your own private beach where the whole family can enjoy a picnic and an adventure.
· Oahu also has historical and cultural landmarks, like the World War II memorial at Pearl Harbor and the Polynesian Cultural Center.
· Take a train ride around the DOLE pineapple plantation
· The Maui Ocean Center is a great activity for families seeking a day of respite from the sun. It houses the best and most unique collection of Hawaii’s marine life.
· Maui has a great selection of family friendly hotels with extensive kids programs.

If you’re an adventure traveler, or like to go off the beaten path … visit the Big Island.
· On the Big Island you’ll find black sand beaches, and a variety of different climates (you can even ski in the morning and lie on the beach in the afternoon).
· You can hike and horseback ride on the island
· The island is the home of Mt. Kilauea (KILL A WAY HAH), which is the longest continuously erupting volcano in the world.

Other tips:
· If you’re a Hawaii first-timer, take a week and split it between Oahu and Maui.
· Take the amount of time you have into consideration. Some islands are more difficult to access and take longer to travel to and from.
· Rent a car on the islands you visit. It’s the best way get around and see the most.
· A professional travel agent can help plan the Hawaiian vacation that’s right for you.