Hawaii Travel Guide (Polynesia/Oceania)

Introduction to Hawaii

Hawaii is a group of islands known for their natural beauty, rich culture, and warm climate. The islands are located in Polynesia, in the Pacific Ocean. Hawaii is the only U.S. state composed entirely of islands. It has a unique blend of cultures, including Hawaiian, American, Asian, and European.

List of Places to Visit in Hawaii

Hawaii is a paradise for tourists with endless things to see and do. Here are some of the must-visit places in Hawaii.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Bishop Museum: Explore the history, culture, and traditions of Hawaii and the Pacific.
Iolani Palace: Visit the only palace in the United States, the former home of Hawaii’s monarchy.
Pearl Harbor National Memorial: Commemorate the lives lost in the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941.

Natural Attractions of Hawaii: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Mauna Kea: The highest peak in Hawaii offers stunning sunrise and sunset views.
Waimea Canyon: Also known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” this massive canyon features stunning views and hiking trails.
Hanauma Bay: This protected bay is perfect for snorkeling and swimming with tropical fish.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hawaii

Hawaii offers some of the most beautiful and challenging hiking and biking trails in the world.

Kalalau Trail: This trail is located on the north shore of Kauai and has stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Diamond Head Trail: This trail leads to the top of Diamond Head, a popular landmark in Honolulu.
Haleakala National Park: The summit of this park offers spectacular panoramic views of the island of Maui and the Pacific Ocean.

Best Things to Do in Hawaii: Activities and Tours

Hawaii offers a wide range of activities and tours, including:

Whale Watching Tour: Experience the migration of humpback whales visiting Hawaii from December to May.
Luau: Attend a traditional Hawaiian feast and cultural show with hula dancing and fire knife performances.
Surfing Lesson: Learn how to surf with lessons from experienced instructors.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hawaii

If you have a week to spend in Hawaii, here is a sample itinerary:

Day	Activity
Day 1	Explore Honolulu, including Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head
Day 2	Visit Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial
Day 3	Take a day trip to the North Shore of Oahu, including a visit to the historic town of Haleiwa
Day 4	Fly to Maui and spend the day at Haleakala National Park
Day 5	Go on a whale watching tour
Day 6	Take a helicopter tour to see the stunning landscapes of Kauai
Day 7	Relax on the beaches of Waikiki or take a surfing lesson

Food and Drink Scene of Hawaii

Hawaiian cuisine is a fusion of many cultures, including Hawaiian, American, Japanese, Chinese, and Filipino. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Poke: A dish made of raw fish marinated with soy sauce, sesame oil, and other spices.
Kalua Pork: A traditional Hawaiian dish made by slow-roasting a whole pig in an underground oven.
Shave Ice: A refreshing dessert made by shaving a block of ice and adding flavored syrup and toppings.

Local Beverages

Mai Tai: A fruity cocktail made with rum, curacao, and lime juice.
Kona Coffee: Coffee grown in the Kona district of the Big Island of Hawaii is known for its rich flavor and aroma.
Hawaiian Sun: A line of refreshing and fruity canned drinks made with local fruits like pineapple and passionfruit.

Where to Stay in Hawaii: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Hawaii offers a variety of lodging options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts. Here are some recommendations:

Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort: A luxurious beachfront resort in Honolulu, offering multiple pools and dining options.
Hostelling International Waikiki: A budget-friendly hostel located in Waikiki, offering dorm and private rooms.
The Westin Maui Resort & Spa: A luxurious resort in Maui, featuring a spa and several dining options.

What to Buy in Hawaii: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Hawaii is famous for its local products, such as:

Kona Coffee: Bring home some of the world-famous coffee grown in the Kona district of the Big Island of Hawaii.
Macadamia Nuts: These nuts are grown locally and are a popular snack in Hawaii.
Pineapple: Hawaii is known for its sweet and juicy pineapples, which are available in many forms, including fresh, canned, and dried.

Local Culture and Customs of Hawaii

Hawaiian culture is deeply rooted in Polynesian traditions. Here are some important customs to keep in mind:

Aloha Spirit: Hawaiians value hospitality, kindness, and inclusivity, and they embody this through the concept of Aloha
Respect for Nature: Hawaiians believe in the interconnectedness of all things and respect the environment as sacred.

Best Time to Visit Hawaii

Hawaii’s warm weather and sunny skies make it an ideal year-round destination. However, the best time to visit is from mid-April to early June or from September to mid-December, when the crowds are thinner, and the prices are lower.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hawaii

To make the most of your stay in Hawaii, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

Do respect the environment and leave it as you found it.
Do learn a few Hawaiian words like Aloha and Mahalo to show your respect.

Don’t:

Don’t touch or interfere with any sea turtles, which are protected by law.
Don’t wear shoes inside someone’s home, as it is considered impolite in Hawaiian culture.

Safety and Health

Hawaii is generally a safe place, but as with any destination, there are some safety and health concerns to keep in mind.

Safety in Hawaii

Don’t leave valuables in your car.
Be cautious of strong currents and don’t swim in areas with warning signs.

Health in Hawaii

Protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen and a hat.
Don’t drink tap water.

Getting to Hawaii: Transportation Options and Logistics

Hawaii is easily accessible from many parts of the world. There are several transportation options available to get to Hawaii, including:

Airports Near Hawaii

Honolulu International Airport: Located on the island of Oahu and serves as the main airport for Hawaii.
Kahului Airport: Located on the island of Maui, the second-largest airport in Hawaii.
Kona International Airport: Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, the airport offers flights to and from many destinations in the U.S. and Canada.

Bus Stations Near Hawaii

There are no bus stations that connect to Hawaii due to its location in the Pacific Ocean.

Other Options

Cruise ships are a popular way to get to Hawaii, with several cruise lines offering trips to Hawaii from the U.S. mainland.

How to Get Around in Hawaii

The best way to explore Hawaii is by renting a car. However, there are other transportation options available, such as public buses, shuttle services, and taxis.

Where to Go Next from Hawaii: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have time, there are many places to visit around Hawaii, including:

The Big Island of Hawaii: Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to see one of the world’s most active volcanoes, or take a snorkeling tour to see Manta Rays.
The Islands of Lanai and Molokai: Two smaller islands with beautiful beaches and a more laid-back atmosphere.

Conclusion

Hawaii is a paradise for tourists, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and warm climate. We hope this comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your next trip to Hawaii and make the most of your stay.