Isn’t Hawaii the most stunning island gem of America?
The cultural offerings of Oahu are so diverse that you could spend weeks exploring them without even setting foot on the beach. Alternatively, you could opt to surf its renowned North
Shore until you practically become part of the sea. Or how about simply setting up a hammock between two lofty palm trees and strumming away on a ukulele throughout the day?
Tucked in the Pacific, the tropical paradise of Kauai, Hawaii’s oldest major island, shines like a radiant emerald, boasting incredible natural beauty.
These enchanting attractions pose some intriguing questions for the adventurous traveler – if a coconut falls into the sea from a tree, does it still produce a sound? Can parrots converse in Polynesian? Naturally, there’s only one method to discover the answers.
Oahu
Begin your cultural expedition in Honolulu with the best Oahu tours. Embark on an invigorating hike to the breathtaking peak of Leahi, or Diamond Head as it’s commonly known, a geological marvel that often features in photographs taken from the famous Waikiki Beach.
The scenic vistas of Honolulu, Waikiki, and West Oahu are unforgettable. Work up an appetite with your trek – well earned and easily satisfied. Perhaps grab a quick snack from one of the park’s food vendors, or venture to Waiola Shave Ice to join the locals enjoying azuki bowls – a favorite treat of shaved ice, azuki beans, mochi balls, and sweet condensed milk.
Continue your adventure to Oahu’s North Shore and the charming town of Haleiwa – a popular tourist spot that offers a welcome escape from Honolulu’s hustle and bustle.
Stop by Deep Ecology for some chic surf gear, commission a custom surfboard at Strong Current, or shop for a handcrafted ukulele to provide a soundtrack to your hammock relaxation.
Check out the North Shore Soap Factory housed in the historic Waialua Sugar Mill; the old mill now hosts various shops and pop-ups offering a range of goods, from coffee (an interesting tidbit: Hawaii is the only state in America that grows coffee) to artisanal chocolate.
Then, it’s time for what you’ve been anticipating – a visit to one of the North Shore’s legendary beaches. Even non-surfers can appreciate the gentle sand, azure sea, and idyllic surroundings of the North Shore.
Sunset Beach, known for its winter swells that can reach six meters, is an appealing spot. Even though the break is quite far offshore, the beach itself is breathtaking. Waimea Bay Beach Park is another superb location to unwind – or ride some truly exhilarating waves. When the big waves roll in, you’re likely to spot some of the world’s top pro surfers.
Consider booking an adventure with Wild Side Specialty Tours for an intimate encounter with the deep blue side of Oahu. Their expeditions offer up-close interactions with wild dolphins, sea turtles, sharks, rays, and whales, making every trip feel like a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Lastly, reserve a few hours to marvel at the exquisite collections at the Honolulu Museum of Art. Established in 1927, the museum boasts over 50,000 works, offering insights into the art history of Hawaii and an extensive array of Japanese and Chinese pieces.
Kauai
Welcome to Kauai, Hawaii’s best-kept secret and an unspoiled paradise of sprawling landscapes, pristine beaches, and lush tropical gardens. A haven for families and a perfect getaway, this is an island that truly has it all.
Begin your journey on the North Shore, a laid-back surf haven where the Kalalau Trail will lead you to the captivating Na Pali Coast, the quaint Hanalei Town, and the enchanting Limahuli Garden and Preserve. This trail is a signature Kauai experience, presenting some of Hawaii’s most stunning landscapes.
Originating from Ke’e Beach and culminating at Kalalau Beach, this 17-kilometer trek takes you across dramatic sea cliffs, verdant valleys, and cascading waterfalls. Although it’s a challenging trail and could occupy seasoned hikers for a full day, it’s undeniably worth the effort.
For those seeking a less strenuous adventure, consider the three-kilometer hike to Hanakapiai Beach, a hotspot for sightings of monk seals and whales. Alternatively, you can simply relax at the beach after parking at the trailhead.
After your adventurous day, refuel in Hanalei Town with gourmet sandwiches from Trucking Delicious, nestled between Hanalei Liquor and Tropical Taco. Round off the meal with ice cream or smoothies from Pink’s Creamery, or indulge in the Shoyu pork belly special at Java Kai.
A visit to the historical Kilohana Sugar Plantation is also a must, where you’ll find the Tudor-style Gaylord Mansion, the Koloa Rum Company, a Luau center, and the award-winning Gaylord’s Restaurant. Most ingredients here are locally sourced, with the plantation’s farm supplying much of the produce.
Attend the Smith’s Family Garden Luau, widely regarded as the best on the island, and enjoy a fantastic show complete with traditional Kalua pig from the imu oven, platefuls of island delicacies, and a hula lesson from the amiable Kamika Smith, General Manager and ukulele virtuoso.
Make sure to visit the Limahuli Garden and Preserve, part of the National Tropical Botanical Garden system. Nestled in a tropical valley with views of the Makana Mountain on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other, this garden, recognized as the ‘Best Natural Botanical Garden in the United States’ by the American Horticultural Society, will leave you in awe.
Finally, venture to the Waimea, the ‘Grand Canyon of the Pacific’, a dry and majestic canyon stretching over 16 kilometers in length and reaching depths of up to 1,066 meters. Its awe-inspiring views can be accessed easily through a well-maintained road, complete with numerous viewpoints and trailheads. All in all, Kauai, often referred to as the Garden Island, offers a unique blend of natural wonders and cultural richness, making it a must-see destination in Hawaii.
Where to Stay
Oahu
Halekulani is neither a hotel nor a resort – it is a Hawaiian experience unlike any other. Diamond Head suites offer tremendous views, the common areas feature unbelievable floral displays and the restaurants, including La Mer and Orchids, will put you into a food coma of the highest calibre. What’s more, the beach is never more than a few feet away.
Kauai
Aqua Kauai Beach Resort is sensational in itself – the centralised location makes day trips to any place on the island a breeze. About half of the rooms feature ocean views and room rates are some of the most affordable in Hawaii (extra night specials make package deals a steal). The grounds are well-tended with open grassy areas, fantastic pools, a spa and outdoor dining facilities. But what makes Aqua Kauai especially alluring is the beach; kilometre after kilometre of golden sand, spectacular seaside vistas and dramatic surf coupled with incredible sunrise views.
Where to eat
Get acquainted with Kauai by way of food writer Marta Lane’s excellent handbook, A Taste of Kauai, which promises to guide you from seed to table on a ‘culinary romp through paradise’ in which she explores farmers markets, fine dining outfits, cultural hotspots, food trucks and more. Tasting Kauai Food Tours offer two distinct culinary adventures – a Taste of Kilohana, an off-menu, three-course Kilohana Plantation experience – and the one-hour Farmers Market Tour, though either can be tailored to your taste buds. Perfect for families.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hawaii, a diverse and remarkable archipelago, offers an array of experiences for every traveler. From the thrilling waves of Oahu’s North Shore to the unique street art and microbreweries of Honolulu’s Kaka’ako district, the hustle and bustle of urban life beautifully merges with nature’s tranquility. The unforgettable hikes in Kauai, the mesmerizing views from Diamond Head, and the cultural immersion in local food and art add to the enriching experiences that the islands offer. From manta ray dives and snorkeling adventures to exploring the majesty of volcanoes, the sheer variety of experiences make Hawaii an unparalleled destination. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a touch of both, the Hawaiian Islands are sure to leave a lasting impression, creating memories you’ll treasure for a lifetime.
