Tag Archives: Hawaii

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Visit the Polynesian Cultural Center in Oahu, Hawaii

The entrance to the Polynesian Cultural Centre in Oahu, Hawaii

Michael Gordon / Shutterstock.com

Located on the northern shore of Oahu, the Polynesian Cultural Center is a Polynesian-themed living museum and theme park sprawled out across a lush, 42 acre tropical haven. With everything from island villages to explore to a traditional dinner to feast on, this is a great place to really immerse yourself in authentic Polynesian life.

Island Villages
The Polynesian Cultural Center boasts six distinct villages, each one depicting a Pacific culture. The Samoa village tends to be the most popular, as the demonstrations here are always fun, from learning how to make fire by rubbing two sticks together to using a small pebble to crack open a coconut. The Islands of Aotearoa village features Maori natives, complete with their unusual facial tattoos, with tattooed warriors performing their native war dance. At the Tonga village, you will be treated to a presentation of Tonga drumming, while learning about the intricate sitting dance, while the Fiji village boasts an incredible six storey high Fijian temple, open for the public to explore. The Tahiti village is another one that focuses on dance, and, finally, the Hawaii village will teach you so much more about true Hawaiian life.

The Luau and Dinner
A luau is a quintessential part of Pacific life, and the Polynesian Cultural Center’s Ali’i Luau has won numerous awards. Held in their gorgeous outdoor grounds, surrounded by tropical gardens and waterfalls, the luau includes a Royal Court procession, along with musical and cultural entertainment, followed by an authentic Hawaiian feast. This dinner is often the highlight of the day for many visitors, as the food that you will eat here has been cooked in the most traditional ways possible. From the magnificent imu, which is pork that has been cooked in an underground oven, to steamed tropical fish to poke, this is a great opportunity to try some of the islands’ most famous dishes.

A fire performance at the Polynesian Cultural Center at Oahu, Hawaii

Michael Gordon / Shutterstock.com

Ha: Breath of Life
After the dinner and luau has ended, the Polynesian Cultural Center hosts an evening performance titled Ha: Breath of Life. This performance tells a symbolic local story, and is filled with Polynesian dances, special effects and blazing fire knives, all of which is put together by more than 100 Polynesian natives. The story itself is one of triumph and tragedy, and will no doubt take you through a range of emotions as you watch the show. With so many publications showering this performance with endless praise, this is an evening that you will definitely not want to miss.

Other Activities
In addition to the activities mentioned above, there is plenty else to do at the Polynesian Cultural Center. There are eight “Go Native” activities for visitors to try, from learning how to climb up a coconut tree to throwing a spear, all of which embody native Polynesian life. There is also everything from canoe rides along a tropical lagoon to a tram tour to take part in, so be sure to leave yourself plenty of time when visiting the center.

While local Hawaiian life can be experienced all over Hawaii’s islands, the Polynesian Cultural Center focuses on Polynesia as a whole. From the many different islands that are dotted around the Pacific to the unique culture that has arisen in the area over the years, this is a tourist attraction that everybody should visit.

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Get Your Kitty Fix in Lanai City, Hawaii

Cat lying on a grassy ground

The Hawaiian island of Lanai is home to a number of different one-of-a-kind attractions, but there is an unusual one that has been attracting a record number of visitors. Situated within a 25,000 square foot property, the Lanai Cat Sanctuary is home to 500 rescued cats, and is open to visitors for a few hours each day.

The Lanai Cat Sanctuary
The Lanai Cat Sanctuary is a unique one, because not only is it located on one of the most remote islands in the United States, but it also has no electricity, meaning that those who run it need to be quite innovative in their methods of raising these cats. It opened in 2008, with 425 cats at the time who were calling it home. The sanctuary boasts everything that a cat could desire, from large huts and trees to climb on to patches of lush grass where they can lay out and enjoy the sun. There are absolutely no cages or barriers within the sanctuary, leaving the cats free to roam around and make the most of the incredible space that they live in.

Rehabilitation and Neutering
One of the major issues that the wild birds of Hawaii face are the many feral cats that roam the islands and these cats have had quite the detrimental impact on native bird populations over the years. The sanctuary practices a neuter and release program, whereby each cat that they take in is neutered, as this will help to prevent Hawaii’s feline population from continuing to grow at uncontrollable rates. The sanctuary also traps and rehabilitates feral cats, while providing ongoing medical care to those who need it, and socializing those who have lived on their own their whole lives.

Cat looking at woman carrying her

Visiting the Lanai Cat Sanctuary
The Lanai Cat Sanctuary attracts a few thousand visitors each year, some of whom travel the world just to visit this incredible place. The sanctuary is located just a mile from Lana’i Airport, making it easy and convenient to access. Open daily from 10am to 3pm, visitors are able to play and interact with the cats, which helps the cats to become accustomed to human contact. Visitors can also spend time brushing the cats, and are allowed to bring in treats and toys when they visit.

Adopting or Fostering a Cat from the Sanctuary
As you would imagine, many visitors to the sanctuary end up falling in love with a cat, but each cat that is here is able to be fostered or adopted, so many visitors end up taking one home with them. The sanctuary arranges for air travel for the cats, and, each year, around 30 cats are adopted by visitors to the sanctuary, making room for more feral cats to be taken in. For those who would like to support the sanctuary but are not able to adopt a cat themselves, the sanctuary offers an adopt-in-place program for a monthly fee, with the money raised going towards the running costs of the sanctuary, as well as the never-ending medical bills that are accumulated.

While there are numerous animal sanctuaries to be found all over the world, there are none that are quite like the Lanai Cat Sanctuary. Rather than seeing unhappy animals cooped up in cages, this is a sanctuary that really allows the cats to be themselves, and for those who do not end up being adopted, they are still able to spend their lives living in happiness on one of the most beautiful islands in the world.

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Feel the Lava at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Lava from Kilauea Volcano flowing into sea

Located on Big Island, the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park was established on the 1st of August 1916, and is home to both the Kilauea and Mauna Loa volcanoes, both of which are active. For those who have been hoping to have the opportunity to see Hawaii’s volcanoes up-close while visiting the island, spending a day at this national park is definitely a must-do.

The Kilauea Volcano
While the Mauna Loa volcano may be the largest volcano on the planet, it is the Kilauea volcano that is the most famous in Hawaii, because even though it is the youngest of the five volcanoes on Big Island, it is also the most active, and has been erupting continuously since 1983. A visit to the Kilauea Visitor Center will teach you more about this, with a 25 minute film to introduce you to the park, as well as updates on the latest eruptions. You can also schedule guided tours and ranger talks from here, which are useful if you would like to learn more about the volcano and the park itself.

The Jagger Museum
For those who would like to learn more about volcanoes and how they work, a visit to the Jagger Museum, which is situated within the park, is a must. This museum is devoted to volcanology, and has a number of exhibits that are dedicated to the volcanoes on the island, showing you how they developed and how they have managed to influence and change the landscape around them. The museum also has an overlook just outside it, and, from here, you will be able to enjoy an extremely advantageous viewpoint over the Halema’uma’u Crater, which is another one that has been frequently active.

Inside the Thurston Lava Tube

Thurston Lava Tube
There are not many places in the world where you can actually walk through lava, but the Thurston Lava Tube is one of these. This tube was created hundreds of years ago, when lava flowed through the area, but was only discovered in 1913 by a local newspaper publisher. The tube measures 600 feet long, with its height ranging from 10 to 30 feet, and appears in quite a surreal way out of a lush green forest.

Leave No Trace
One of the principals that is encouraged at all national parks is to leave no trace, meaning that you should leave the area in the same way that you found it. This is especially important at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, as this area has already been quite affected by tourists, such as with the lava stalactites that used to hang in the Thurston Lava Tube, but which were then taken away by tourists as souvenirs. While it may be tempting to remove a small amount of lava, or anything else you may find, to take home with you, this is not only detrimental to the environment, but is also illegal under federal law.

The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is definitely a must-visit for those who are visiting Big Island for the first time, as it will provide you with a unique glimpse into the island’s one-of-a-kind ecology. From the incredible Kilauea Volcano to the surreal Thurston Lava Tube, there is so much to see and do around the park, so be sure to leave yourself with a full day in which you can thoroughly explore it.

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Exploring the Napali Coast

A stunning coastal range on the Hawaiian island of Kauai, the Napali Coast stretches out for fifteen miles, and offers up some of the best views in all of the state. Located on the island’s North Shore, this traffic-free stretch of land is not the easiest to access, which only makes it even more of a Hawaiian hidden gem.

Kalalau Trail
Kalalau Trail
There is only one way to access the Napali Coast by land, and this is by taking the 11 mile long Kalalau Trail. The trail begins at Kee Beach and crosses five different valleys before ending up at Kalalau Beach on the Napali Coast. As beautiful as the journey may be, this is known for being one of the most challenging hikes on the island, with several narrow sections, as well as muddy topsoil that makes it difficult to establish a firm grip on the ground. The hike takes a full day one way, which is why many hikers choose to break their journey up and camp at Hanakoa Beach, turning the trip into a three day adventure. In addition to being an experienced hiker, you need to also ensure that you are able to deal with heights before attempting this trail, as you will find many sections that travel along the edge of ultra steep cliffs, which, while offering panoramic views, will definitely make your stomach turn if you are afraid of big drops.

Boat Tours
If you would like to explore the Napali Coast without hiking, then a boat tour is your best option, as there are multiple types to choose from. These will all usually set off from Port Allen on the west coast of the island, and, whether you opt for a sea kayak, a rigid hull inflatable, or a luxury sailing catamaran, the views that you will see make the trip well worthwhile. In addition to exploring the coast, a boat tour will also take you to see the many sea caves, waterfalls, and other natural features that the area boasts, meaning that even if you have already hiked to the coast before, a boat tour is still worth taking.

Helicopter Tour
The landscape surrounding the Napali Coast is even more impressive when viewed from above, which is why helicopter tours are extremely popular on Kauai. These tours fly through some of the island’s most inaccessible areas, and, in addition to taking in all of the hidden valleys around the Napali Coast, you will also be able to see many other natural landmarks, including the famous Waimea Canyon.

OROGOLD-exploring-the-napali-coast
Driving
Even if you cannot drive to the Napali Coast itself, there are still multiple spots where you can drive to and enjoy spectacular views of the coast. Polihale Beach and Kee Beach offer gorgeous views down to the coast, while the Kalalau Overlook and the Pu’u O Kila both overlook the extraordinarily beautiful Kalalau Valley.

With dramatic cliffs, golden beaches and historic archaeological sites, the Napali Coast is always a joy to explore. Whether this is your first time visiting Kauai, or you are returning to the coast after previous visits, this is a part of Hawaii that will never fail to inspire and captivate you.

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Visiting Hawaii’s Heritage Sites

There are many places in Hawaii that are deeply treasured for their cultural, natural or historical significance. From rugged state parks to historic landmarks, here are some of the heritage sites that the Hawaiian islands have to offer.

The Island of Hawaii
Big Island
Big Island is home to several fascinating heritage sites, with the most famous of them all being the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This park is home to two of the most active volcanoes in the world, Maunaloa and Kilauea, providing volcanic landscapes unlike anywhere else in the world. Other state parks that are definitely worth visiting on Big Island include Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park, which is where Captain James Cook first set foot on the island, the ‘Akaka Falls State Park, and the Lapakahi State Historical Park, which is where you will be able to learn more about traditional Hawaiian lifestyles. For those seeking even more history, the Hulihee Palace used to be a vacation home for Hawaiian royalty, and can be found in the historic Kailua Village.

Oahu
Just like Big Island, there are many different heritage sites to be found in Oahu. The Bishop Museum is usually the first point of call for many visitors, as this will teach you so much about the Pacific region, providing a great starting point from which you can learn more about the islands’ history and culture. The Iolani Palace State Monument can also be found in Oahu, and is the only official royal state residence in the entire US. Other royalty-related sites include the Queen Emma Summer Palace and Washington Place, both of which are open for tours.

Kauai
There are just two main heritage sites to be found in Kauai, but one of these is considered by many to truly be a geological wonder. Dubbed “the Grand Canyon of the Pacific”, the Waimea Canyon State Park stretches out for over 14 miles, offering multiple scenic viewpoints, as well as a short nature trail. Also on Kauai is the Kilauea Lighthouse, which, in addition to being a National Wildlife Reserve, also offers incredible views of the island.

Manele Bay
Lanai
While Lanai may only have one heritage site, the Kaunolu Village, this archaeological site contains the largest surviving ruins of a prehistoric Hawaiian village, making it well worth exploring. From petroglyphs to Kahekili’s Leap, a 60 foot cliff from which warriors would dive to demonstrate their bravery, there is plenty of history to soak up here.

Maui
One of Maui’s heritage highlights includes the Haleakala National Park, which spans over 30,000 acres. This is a national park with one of the highest concentrations of endangered species, making it a must-visit for those who want to experience native Hawaiian wildlife. It is also home to the highest peak in Maui, meaning that there are many incredible views to be seen from here.

Each of the Hawaiian islands have at least one heritage site to visit, with some, such as Big Island and Oahu, being home to several. Whether you are seeking history, culture or natural beauty, these heritage sites promise to provide all of that plus so much more.

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Best Places to Whale Watch

From November to May, the waters of Hawaii are abundant with humpback whales, making the islands a whale-watchers paradise. While these humpbacks can be seen from all of the Hawaiian islands, these are some of the best places to whale watch if you want a truly unforgettable sighting.

Whale in Kauai
Kauai
One of the best spots on Kauai for whale watching is the Kilauea Lighthouse on the north side of the island, because this area has actually been designated a humpback whale marine sanctuary by the Federal government. Shipwreck Beach is also an idyllic spot where you are likely to be able to see multiple whales from shore, whilst being surrounded by soft white sand and incredible scenery.

Oahu
The south-eastern part of Oahu is the best area on the island for whale watching, from Hanauma Bay to the overlooks near Diamond Head. Makapuu Point has also always been a popular spot, with the winding Makapuu Point Trail to take you there. In addition to the whales, you will be able to have unobstructed views out across the island’s nearby shore islets, which are sanctuaries for many species of native seabirds.

Maui whale sighting

Maui
Maui is considered to be one of the best of the Hawaiian islands for whale watching, and they can be seen from just about anywhere that provides a view of the water. However, if you want to watch them breach and play in ways that you have never seen before, then you need to head to the stretch of Highway 30 that runs between Ma’alaea and Lahaina. As breathtaking a viewing spot as this may be, this is also the windiest stretch of the road, making for quite dangerous driving during the winter months, which is when whale watching season is at its peak, so be sure to pull over at a safe spot in order to really be able to concentrate on the whales.

Whale Watching Tours
While it is relatively easy to watch the whales from shore, there is nothing quite like being able to view them out in the water. There are several whale watching tours available that you can choose from for this, with companies ranging from Hawaii Nautical to Star of Honolulu. These excursions are usually well worth your time, as you will also be able to see everything from Hawaiian Spinner dolphins to rare turtles.

Whale watching is a highly anticipated annual phenomenon in Hawaii, and has been an important part of local culture since the islands’ very early days. If you are viewing whales from the shore, or even from a boat, it can often be tempting to edge nearer, to enjoy a closer view, but keep in mind that the laws state that you cannot get closer than 100 feet to whales in the water, so as not to disturb them, so be sure to keep a safe distance. However, if the whales decide to come nearer to you, which, in local terms, is described as “being mugged”, then be sure to enjoy this rare experience.

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Kalaupapa National Historic Park

Kalaupapa Lookout

Located in Kalaupapa, on the island of Moloka’i, the Kalaupapa National Historic Park has had quite a dark role to play when it comes to the history of Hawaii. When Hansen’s Disease, otherwise known as leprosy, was introduced to the island in the 1830’s by foreign workers, Kalaupapa was designated as an isolation settlement, housing those who had been afflicted by the then-incurable disease. These historic settlements have been preserved throughout Kalaupapa National Historic Park, and, combined with the incredible natural beauty that the park boasts, it is a great destination at which to learn more about a turbulent time in Hawaii’s past.

Learning About Kalaupapa’s History
In order for the public to learn as much as possible about Kalaupapa’s sad past, Kalaupapa National Historic Park works hard to preserve all of their authentic historic features. From the buildings to the roads to the grave markers, the history that is still clearly visible throughout the park is definitely impressive. The park is also home to a museum collection that tells the story of the devastation that leprosy caused, with over 300,000 objects to depict this, including first-hand accounts from those who were directly affected by the disease. Kalaupapa is still home to a number of people who contracted leprosy, suffering for a while before they were eventually cured in later years.

Wildlife
Hawaii is the most isolated island chain in the world, and it is truly incredible to imagine how the islands slowly filled with animal life over the years, with creatures that were either drifted in by the sea or blown in by the wind. The islands of Hawaii are known for their natural diversity, with 95% of their native animals not being found anywhere else in the world. The isolation and seclusion of the Kalaupapa National Historic Park means that it provides a protective sanctuary for a vast array of wildlife, from rare tropical fish to endangered birds to colorful marine life.

Kalaupapa mule tour

Kalaupapa Mule Tour
One of the most popular ways to explore the Kalaupapa National Historic Park is on the back of a mule, with guided tours taking you to some of the highlights of the park. In addition to having the opportunity to ride down the highest sea cliffs in the world, visitors are able to experience and learn about the park’s history from a traditional, but unique, perspective.

Natural Beauty
For those that are interested in nature, there are a number of plant varieties in the Kalaupapa National Historic Park that promise to fascinate you, as well as areas of incredible natural beauty. From native palms to endangered grasses to lava tubes and caves to soaring sea cliffs, the natural beauty around the park is wonderfully diverse.

A small peninsula of lush land that is surrounded by steep cliffs, visitors can easily see why Kalaupapa was chosen as a quarantine area when leprosy became rampant in Hawaii. The park’s history, as well as its untouched natural beauty, which is perfectly reminiscent of Old Hawaii, serves as a significant reminder of some of the struggles that Hawaii has faced over the years, the effects of which still haunt the Kalaupapa National Historic Park today.

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Visit Hawaii’s Waterfalls

The islands of Hawaii are home to some of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world, and while it may seem easy to find one around just about every corner, there is no doubting that some are much more magnificent than others. From waterfalls that can only be reached via a challenging hike, to others that feature a serene and picturesque swimming hole, these are the Hawaiian waterfalls that you should definitely not miss out on.

Waimoku Falls Maui

Waimoku Falls, Maui
Situated on Maui, the Waimoku Falls can be found at the end of what is considered to be the best hike in Hawaii, otherwise known as the Pipiwai Trail. Since it lies in the Kipahulu District National Park, the surrounding areas are protected, meaning that this 400-foot waterfall flows throughout the year, and visitors are even able to enjoy a close-up view of its base. This stretch of the coastline is referred to as the Seven Sacred Pools, because further downstream there are many more waterfalls and swimming holes to be found, making this a fantastic location for those who want to explore a diverse range of falls.

Akaka Falls, Big Island

Akaka Falls, Big Island
The Akaka Falls is probably the most well-known waterfall on Big Island, and since it receives between 130 to 200 inches of rainfall each year, its constant gushing never disappoints. Measuring just over 440 feet, the Akaka Falls may look just like those hard-to-reach waterfalls that can be found in deep valleys, but this one is easily accessible, giving visitors the opportunity to view a type of waterfall that they may not have otherwise been lucky enough to see.

Hanakapi'ai Falls in Kauai

Hanakapi’ai Falls, Kauai
The area of coastline that houses the Hanakapi’ai Falls is considered to be one of the most picturesque on all of the Hawaiian islands, making it well worth a visit. In order to reach this towering waterfall, a day hike is needed, and although the actual hike may be quite slippery and challenging at times, it runs through lush jungles and areas of immense natural beauty, with the dramatic waterfall at the end making the hike most definitely worthwhile.

Rainbow Falls, Big Island

Rainbow Falls, Big Island
Cascading down 80 feet, the Rainbow Falls are set in a cove that is surrounded by lush, tropical jungle, providing the perfect photo opportunity, as well as a sense of excitement for history buffs, as the cove is said to be where King Kamehameha buried his father’s body. Since the Rainbow Falls tumble down onto Wailuku River, which is the longest river in the state, this is another waterfall that flows year-round, and, being so accessible, should most definitely make it onto your waterfall to-do list.

Hawaii’s natural beauty has earned the islands a reputation all over the world, with visitors traveling from just about every continent to check out some of the world-famous waterfalls that can be found here. From the convenience of the Rainbow Falls on Big Island to the jaw-dropping beauty of the Hanakapi’ai Falls, no matter how many of Hawaii’s waterfalls you are able to explore, their captivating pull will keep you wanting to return for more.

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Liliuokalani Gardens

Liliuokalani Gardens

Situated in Hilo on the island of Hawaii, the Liliuokalani Gardens is a 30-acre park that boasts exquisite Japanese gardens, pagodas, fish ponds and rock gardens. Named after Queen Liliuokalani, this beautifully landscaped park is a tribute to the first Japanese immigrants that worked on Hawaii island’s sugar cane fields. The garden was first created in the early 1900’s and is considered to be the largest Edo-style garden outside of Japan. With stunning views of surrounding areas and plenty to see and do, the park is an extremely popular attraction with visitors to the island.

Coconut Island
Known locally as Moku’ola, Coconut Island has played an important part in Hawaiian traditions over the years. This intriguing little island can be found just across the drive from the park, and is accessed by a narrow footbridge. Commonly referred to as the Healing Island, Coconut Island used to be the place that locals would visit in order to find natural cures for the illnesses and diseases that they encountered, and it used to also house an ancient healing temple. It is also from Coconut Island where visitors can enjoy breathtaking views across downtown Hilo and the Hilo bayfront.

Shoroan
Shoroan is a traditional Japanese tearoom that can be found on the grounds of Liliuokalani Gardens, and had to be rebuilt in 1994 after the original structure was destroyed by a fire. Shoroan’s actual tea room, known as its chashitsu, was donated to the garden by the Fifteenth Grand Tea Master of Urasenke, and is as traditional a tea room as you would find anywhere in Japan.

Japanese Garden, Hilo

The Japanese Gardens
The serene Waihonu Pond is at the center of the Japanese gardens, with the surrounding landscape being planned around this focal point. The pond is surrounded by charming footbridges, as well as gazebos, and there are also plenty of stunning plants all around, from weeping willow trees to azaleas to bamboo glades. The various paths and walkways around the park have recently been renovated, and a Japanese rock garden was also added, bringing about even more of a tranquil ambiance.

Banyan Tree Drive
Banyan Tree Drive, which flanks Liliuokalani Gardens with its canopy of Banyan trees, is definitely another of the park’s most impressive features. The majority of the trees were planted by the city in 1935, after which the remaining trees were planted by several famous individuals, who each have their name displayed next to the tree that they planted. From Richard Nixon to Babe Ruth, these trees boast some of the biggest names in American culture and history, and it is always exciting to take a stroll around and see who else’s name you discover.

The tourists that visit Liliuokalani Gardens usually stop by to take a look at all of the park’s stunning features, from the koi ponds to the colorful plants. The park is also extremely popular with the locals, who tend to prefer visiting in the early mornings for a peaceful workout session. Since the garden is not fenced off, it is open every day of the week, for 24 hours a day, making access convenient whenever you happen to decide that you want to check out this cultural and natural landmark on Big Island.

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Luxury Activities in Hawaii

With long stretches of white sandy beaches, warm turquoise waters, dramatic coastlines and lush scenery all around, Hawaii is a natural paradise, and it is no surprise that it is considered to be one of the most luxurious destinations in the world. From dining at the finest restaurants on the islands to exploring secret coves on a private boat cruise, these are some of Hawaii’s most luxurious activities.

Women in a yacht

Charter a Yacht
Chartering a luxury yacht for the day is a VIP experience like no other, and is an intimate way to explore the parts of Hawaii that you are most eager to see. Luxury charter yacht Drumbeat, provided by Charter World, is the ultimate in decadent boats and is one of the largest leisure crafts ever built, coming complete with en-suite cabins, a formal dining area, and a spacious, polished wood interior. One of the most popular private charter routes in Hawaii is across Kaneohe Bay, to see one of the most incredible sandbars in the world. Protected by a barrier reef, this is also a great spot for some snorkeling and swimming, making this activity one that you can spend the whole day enjoying. Most of the luxury yachts in Hawaii will come with full staffing on board, including a chef that will be able to whip up tasty treats for you and your guests throughout the day.

Luxury Spas
Hawaii has quite the history when it comes to healing, leading to a huge number of spas opening up around the island. The spa at the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel is one of the best in Hawaii, with its paths and facilities lined with real lava, while the Kona Village Resort spa offers outdoor oceanfront treatment huts and an old-Hawaii atmosphere. Spa Grande at the Grand Wailea Resort is absolutely massive, and sprawls out across 50,000 square feet, while SpaHalekulani specializes in Polynesian treatments, which is always worth trying when in Hawaii.

Fine dining restaurant

Fine Dining
Hawaii’s gorgeous scenery also makes for extremely fertile land, on which locals grow a wide range of fresh, organic, non-GMO produce, providing all of the necessary components for some truly indulgent fine dining experiences. Alan Wong’s, which can be found just outside of Waikiki, was one of the early pioneers of the farm to table movement, and his restaurant makes full use of these native ingredients, mixing them with Asian flavors to produce a harmonious five-course menu. La Mer is another one of Hawaii’s most popular fine dining restaurants, with its strict dress code, requesting jackets and evening attire, already lending it quite the formal ambiance. The cuisine is Hawaiian, but the culinary techniques used are classically French, resulting in exquisite dishes just steps away from the beach.

If you are trying to decide where to go the next time you want to really treat yourself, you will not go wrong by picking Hawaii, which offers up such a fantastic range of luxury activities. In addition to the ones mentioned above, Hawaii is also home to some magnificent luxury resorts that you can stay at, offering everything from private beaches to individual gardens, adding another element of decadence to your visit.