Hawaii offers a perfect mix of romance, adventure, relaxation, culture, and exploration. For couples, the islands provide unforgettable romantic experiences, like sunset dinners on the beach and private helicopter tours. Adventure enthusiasts can hike Diamond Head, bike Haleakalā, surf at Waikiki, or enjoy ocean activities like whale watching and parasailing.
For relaxation, Hawaii’s serene beaches, waterfalls, and luxury spas offer the ultimate escape, with treatments like lomilomi massages to melt away stress. Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Hawaii through luaus, stargazing on Mauna Kea, and discovering its unique history at sites like Pearl Harbor and Iolani Palace.
Hawaii’s culinary scene is a feast, with fresh poke, kalua pork, garlic shrimp, and tropical treats like malasadas and shave ice. Golfers will be delighted by world-class courses offering breathtaking ocean views. Whether you’re exploring volcanic landscapes, hidden waterfalls, or the island’s vibrant culture, Hawaii invites you to discover its magic.
North Shore:
• North Shore Beaches: Known for its massive winter waves, this is a surfer’s paradise with legendary spots like Waimea Bay, Pipeline, and Sunset Beach.
• Polynesian Cultural Center: Offers immersive experiences into Polynesian culture with exhibits, performances, and an evening show.
• Waimea Valley: A tropical garden with hiking trails leading to a waterfall, offering both natural beauty and cultural history.
• Dole Plantation: Visit the historic plantation to learn about pineapple cultivation, explore the maze, and enjoy fresh pineapple treats.
East Shore:
• Kualoa Ranch: A top outdoor adventure spot offering ATV tours, horseback riding, and breathtaking scenery, including Jurassic Park filming locations.
• Hanauma Bay: A top snorkeling destination with vibrant marine life.
• Kailua: Known for its peaceful beaches like Lanikai Beach, perfect for kayaking and relaxation.
• Makapu’u Point: A scenic hiking trail with views of the coastline and Makapu’u Lighthouse.
West Shore:
• Disney Aulani Resort: A family-friendly luxury resort with Disney magic in a beautiful Hawaiian setting.
• Makaha Beach Park: Popular for surfing, beachcombing, and views of the Waianae Mountains.
• Ko Olina Lagoons: Man-made lagoons with calm waters great for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding.
• Nanakuli Beach: Access to the Mermaid Caves.
• Waianae Farmers Market: Visit the local market on Saturday mornings.
• Paradise Cove Beach: A good spot for young children and beginners.
South Shore:
• Honolulu: Hawaii’s capital city offers a mix of culture, history, and natural beauty, with easy access to iconic sites.
• Iolani Palace: Hawaii’s only royal palace, with historical significance, including being wired for electricity before the White House.
• Waikiki: Famous for its beaches, historical landmarks, and lively shopping, dining, and entertainment scene.
• Pearl Harbor: A key historical site with the USS Arizona Memorial and other significant landmarks.
• Chinatown: A vibrant cultural hub with markets, eateries, and historic buildings, offering a blend of local and international influences.
Oahu, known as “The Gathering Place,” is the vibrant heart of Hawaii, blending rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty. From the iconic Waikiki Beach and Pearl Harbor to the lush landscapes of Diamond Head and the North Shore’s world-class surf, Oahu offers a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and Hawaiian spirit.
North Shore:
• Na Pali Coast: Famous for dramatic sea cliffs and pristine beaches, accessible by boat, foot, or helicopter. The Kalalau Trail offers breathtaking views of the coastline.
• Tunnels Beach: Known for excellent snorkeling and stunning views of Makana Peak.
• Hanalei Bay: A picturesque beach perfect for swimming, kayaking, and surfing, surrounded by lush mountains.
• Limahuli Garden: A botanical garden offering insight into Hawaiian culture and tropical flora.
• Anini Beach: Known for the largest coral reef in Hawaii and great snorkeling.
East Shore:
• Mount Waialeale: One of the wettest places on Earth, receiving 450 inches of rain annually, creating lush rainforests and waterfalls.
• Wailua River & Fern Grotto: A navigable river offering peaceful kayaking and boat tours, with a stunning cave covered in ferns.
• Wailua Falls: A stunning double waterfall, one of Kauai’s most photographed landmarks.
• Lihue Sugar Plantation: Offers a tubing excursion through historic plantation lands.
West Shore:
• Waimea Canyon: The “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” offering stunning views of cliffs and valleys.
• Kauai’s Wild West: A rugged, remote area with fewer crowds and great hiking opportunities.
• Hiking: Trails in Waimea Canyon and Koke’e State Park offer incredible views.
• Boat Tours: Depart from Kikiaola Small Boat Harbor for Na Pali Coast tours.
• Beaches: Polihale Beach and smaller west coast beaches provide serene views.
• Sunset Viewing: The west shore offers some of the best sunset views, including over Niihau, the Forbidden Island.
South Shore:
• Spouting Horn: A natural blowhole that shoots water through a rock formation.
• Poipu Beach: Known for calm waters, great for swimming and snorkeling.
• Allerton & McBryde Gardens: Showcases tropical flora and conservation of native plants, with ties to Jurassic Park.
• Makauwahi Cave: A significant archaeological site with rare fossils and artifacts.
• Hanapepe Art Night: A lively weekly event with local art, live music, and food vendors.
Kauai, known as the “Garden Isle,” is a lush paradise filled with dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and pristine beaches. With its rugged beauty, it’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering activities like hiking the Na Pali Coast, exploring Waimea Canyon, and relaxing on Hanalei Bay.
North Shore:
• Paia: A charming cowboy town with surf shops, galleries, and eateries.
• Hookipa Beach: Famous for windsurfing and kiteboarding, and often home to sea turtles.
• Makawao: A paniolo (cowboy) town known for its galleries and ranching heritage.
East Shore:
• The Road to Hana: A scenic 60-mile drive through rainforests, waterfalls, and cliffs, with stops like Twin Falls, Wai’anapanapa State Park, and the Seven Sacred Pools. Don’t miss Charles Lindbergh’s grave in Kipahulu.
• Haleakalā National Park: Known for its sunrise views, hiking, and stargazing. Bike tours down the volcano and stops at Kula Lodge offer great views and meals.
• Hana Town: Offers scenic beauty, local shops, cafes, and art galleries, making it a perfect stop on the Road to Hana. With its lush landscapes and laid-back atmosphere, Hana is a great place to experience authentic Hawaiian culture.
West Shore:
• Lahaina Town: Once the capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom, Lahaina is a historic town with shops, restaurants, and the iconic Banyan Tree. It was heavily impacted by wildfires, but its resilient spirit remains strong. Visitors are encouraged to support recovery efforts and to be respectful.
• Honoapiilani Highway: A scenic drive with stunning coastal views, highlights include the Nakalele Blowhole and the Los Kaukini Gallery. This drive is not for the faint of heart due to its winding roads and dramatic cliffs.
• Kaanapali Beach: Popular for snorkeling, swimming, and sunsets, with nearby resorts and shopping.
• Iao Valley State Park: Lush park with the famous Iao Needle and scenic hikes.
• Myths of Maui Luau: at Royal Lahaina Resort offers an unforgettable evening of cultural storytelling, traditional hula dancing, a buffet feast, and thrilling fire-knife performances, immersing guests in Maui’s legends and island spirit.
South Shore:
• Makena Beach: Secluded beach perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
• Turtle Town: A popular snorkeling spot known for Hawaiian green sea turtles.
• Maui Ocean Center: An aquarium showcasing Hawaii’s marine life, including coral reefs and sea turtles.
• Whale Watching: Best from December to May, offering boat tours or shore views.
• Kihei: A sunny coastal town ideal for water sports and beach activities.
• La Perouse Bay: A remote area known for hiking, snorkeling, and lava fields.
Maui, often called the “Valley Isle,” is a stunning blend of lush rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and pristine beaches. Known for the scenic Hana Highway, Haleakalā National Park, and the famous Kaanapali Beach, Maui offers a unique combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and tranquility.
North Shore:
• Waimea: Known for its paniolo culture and cool temperatures, surrounded by ranches and lush pastures.
• Pololu Valley Lookout: Stunning views of the coastline, with a hike leading to a secluded black sand beach.
• Mauna Kea: The world’s tallest mountain (from oceanic base), ideal for stargazing and snow in winter.
• Lapakahi State Historical Park: Explore ancient Hawaiian fishponds and cultural history.
East Shore:
• Hilo Town: Surrounded by gardens, waterfalls, and close to Volcanoes National Park.
• Akaka Falls: A 442-foot waterfall accessible by a short hike.
• Punalu’u Black Sand Beach: Famous for its black sand and turtle sightings.
• Volcanoes National Park: Home to Kīlauea and Mauna Loa, two of the most active volcanoes in the world.
• Hawaiian Volcano Observatory: Learn about volcanic research and enjoy stargazing at this observatory.
West Shore:
• Kailua-Kona: A lively town with shops, historic landmarks, and water activities.
• Kealakekua Bay: A perfect spot for snorkeling and kayaking, home to the Captain Cook Monument.
• Pu’uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park: A sacred site showcasing ancient Hawaiian traditions.
• Kona Coffee: The Big Island is the only state in the U.S. that grows coffee, and you can tour coffee plantations on the slopes of Kona mountains.
• Nighttime Diving with Manta Rays: Dive with 20-foot manta rays in a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
South Shore:
• Green Sand Beach: A rare green sand beach accessible by a hike.
• South Point: The southernmost point in the U.S. with dramatic views and access to the Green Sand Beach hike.
The Big Island offers diverse landscapes, from volcanic craters to lush rainforests, making it the perfect destination for outdoor adventures, stargazing, and exploring cultural and natural wonders.
• Lanai Overview: Known as the “Pineapple Isle,” Lanai offers a peaceful blend of luxury and natural beauty with only two resorts, including the Four Seasons Resort Lanai.
• Hulopo’e Beach: A protected marine preserve, perfect for snorkeling with clear waters and vibrant marine life.
• Shipwreck Beach (North Shore): Known for its dramatic scenery and the remnants of an old shipwreck, offering photo opportunities and exploration.
• Hiking & Adventure: Lanai has numerous hiking trails, off-road excursions, and opportunities for horseback riding to explore its rugged landscapes.
• Lanai City (Central Lanai): A charming small town with historic plantation-style buildings, boutique shops, and local eateries, reflecting the island’s rich history and culture.
• Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort (Upcountry): A wellness retreat offering spa treatments, fitness programs, and meditation for relaxation and rejuvenation.
• Four Seasons Resort Lanai (South Lanai): A luxury resort offering oceanfront views, world-class golf, and water activities like whale watching and boat tours.
• Unspoiled Beauty: Lanai features beautiful, secluded beaches and dramatic cliffs, perfect for hiking and outdoor activities.
Lanai is a peaceful retreat, featuring two luxury resorts and a small, charming hotel. With its pristine beaches, scenic landscapes, and rich history, it offers a perfect blend of exploration and tranquility for those seeking an authentic Hawaiian getaway.
• Kalaupapa National Historical Park: Home to the historic leper colony, this park offers a glimpse into the lives of the people who lived there and the island’s courageous history.
• World’s Highest Sea Cliffs: Molokai features the tallest sea cliffs in the world, offering dramatic views and accessible via hiking or mule rides.
• Authentic Hawaiian Experience: Known as the “Friendly Isle,” Molokai offers a peaceful, uncrowded environment with a strong sense of community and preserved traditions.
• Lush Landscapes & Untouched Beaches: Molokai is home to stunning natural beauty, including lush rainforests and serene, unspoiled beaches.
• Preserved Hawaiian Culture: The island maintains its cultural heritage, allowing visitors to experience Hawaii as it once was, with fewer commercial influences.
• No Stoplights: Molokai is one of the last places in Hawaii without any stoplights, providing a relaxed, unhurried pace of life.
• Molokai Ranch: This working ranch offers visitors a chance to explore cattle grazing land and experience ranch life on the island.
• No Major Hotels: Molokai is free from large hotels and resorts, focusing on small inns, vacation rentals, and a more intimate, low-key stay.
Molokai is a tranquil, unspoiled island that immerses visitors in the richness of traditional Hawaiian culture and history. With its secluded beaches, scenic hikes, and historical landmarks, each region of the island offers a unique glimpse into its timeless beauty and charm.
A Hawaiian Islands cruise offers the perfect way to explore the stunning diversity of Hawaii’s landscapes, from volcanic craters to pristine beaches. Cruise between four breathtaking islands—Oahu, Maui, Big Island, and Kauai—and experience the rich culture, lush rainforests, and vibrant marine life that make these islands so unique. Whether you’re relaxing on beautiful beaches, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, or exploring historic landmarks, a Hawaiian cruise provides the ultimate tropical getaway. Norwegian Cruise Line is the only cruise line offering an itinerary specifically dedicated to Hawaii, giving you an unparalleled experience of these magnificent islands.
A Connection to Culture and Spirit
The Hawaiian alphabet includes 13 letters: A, E, H, I, K, L, M, N, O, P, U, W, plus the ʻokina (glottal stop). The kahakō (macron) stretches vowel sounds.
• Aloha – Love, affection, peace, and compassion; used as a greeting (“Hello” or “Goodbye”).
• Ohana – Family, both immediate and extended; a sense of community.
• Mahalo – Thank you, gratitude.
• Pono – Righteousness, balance, harmony; doing things the right way.
• Keiki – Child or children.
• Honu – Turtle, often referring to the Hawaiian green sea turtle.
• Mana – Spiritual power or energy; supernatural force.
• Lei – A garland or wreath made of flowers, leaves, or shells.
• Hula – Traditional Hawaiian dance accompanied by chants or songs.
• Wai – Water; used in place names (e.g., Waikiki – “spouting water”).
• Mele – Song, chant, or music.
• Aina – Land, earth, or soil; nurturing and respect for the land.
• Lani – Heaven or sky.
• Kupuna – Elders or ancestors.
• Kama’aina – A long-time resident or native-born Hawaiian.
• Shaka – Hand gesture meaning “hang loose” or “everything’s good.”
• Tūtū – Grandparent or elderly person.
• Haole – Non-Hawaiian or foreigner.
• Humuhumunukunukuāpua’a – Hawaii’s state fish, the reef triggerfish. Try saying it without tripping over your tongue!
Don’t forget the unspoken word—the “stink eye.” In Hawaii, it’s the local way of letting tourists know they’ve stepped out of line. With just a glance, you’ll instantly understand you’ve been caught. It’s a subtle, yet powerful way of communicating disapproval, without saying a word.
Heidi Jackson
Kentucky
859-379-9260
heidi@lotmv.com
Fill out the below form to connect with me!