Every year, more than six million people visit one or more of the islands of Hawaii, according to the State of Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. These visitors enjoy the warm climate, free beaches, rich history and cultural events that are abundant on all six of the major islands. Any time is a good time to plan a trip to Hawaii. The weather varies from 68 degrees to 88 degrees -- always warm enough for shorts and flip flops.
Instructions
Choose Your Destination
1. Decide which island you would like to visit. Each island has its own particular characteristics.
Kauai has lush greenery and many waterfalls. Waimea Canyon, on the west side of the island, is 3,000 feet deep and features several lookout points and many trails for hikers of all abilities.
Oahu is the island of the state capital and offers the large city of Honolulu, along with historic sites such as Pearl Harbor. If your visit is during the winter months, you can stop by North Beach to see surfers tackle the huge waves that are common in January and February.
Maui is the island to visit for whale watching. The twisting turns and switchbacks on the Road to Hana might find you with white knuckles on the steering wheel, but the views and waterfalls are worth it.
The island of Hawaii (also called the Big Island) is popular with scuba divers and has the world's most active volcano. You can even find snow on top of Mauna Kea, which is the world's tallest mountain, measuring from the floor of the ocean.
Molokai is the island of Hawaiian traditions. You can visit the Kalaupapa National Historic Park and learn about Father Damien, a Belgian missionary who cared for the residents who suffered from Hansen's disease and were exiled on Molokai in the mid-to-late 1800s.
Luxurious Lanai has three famous golf courses: Cavendish, the Challenge at Manele and the Experience at Koele. Visit Hulopoe Bay to see the resident spinner dolphins.
2. Decide whether you will visit one island or more. Depending on the length of your visit, you may be able to island-hop in the middle of your stay. For shorter vacations of a week or less, one island will be enough to keep you busy. If you are able to stay for two weeks or more, plan to see another island.
3. Search for inexpensive fares and hotel rates. If you plan far enough in advance, you should be able to find some deals. Many special rates require advanced purchase of up to six weeks. If you are visiting more than one island, make airline reservations from one island to the other.
Trip Preparation
4. Visit your doctor or health professional. Tourists in Hawaii sometimes suffer heart attacks as they are much more active during their vacation than typically. Have a thorough checkup and discuss your travel plans with your doctor. You may want prescriptions for motion sickness medication if you plan to go out on tour boats during your stay.
5. Get in shape. Many activities that Hawaii has to offer require a modest amount of physical exertion. Start a walking program so that you will be able to walk up some of the foliage-filled trails or swim and snorkel off the beaches.
6. Write a list of items you will want to take with you. In addition to clothing, swim suits and sun screen, think about activity-specific gear. You may want to bring snorkel or scuba equipment, for example. Hawaii is very casual, and you will not need dressy clothes for your visit. You may want to bring clothing suitable for nightclubs.
7. Find accommodations for your pets. Hawaii has strict rules regarding pets coming into the state. For most pets, a quarantine period is mandatory. It may be best to make other arrangements for their care rather than taking them with you. Find a good kennel or pet-sitter. Advanced reservations will help you feel comfortable, knowing that your pet is in good hands.
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