Hawaii Uncovered: Planning Your Trip with Tern Trek

Introduction to Hawaii

Aloha Tern Trekkers! In this blog we will explore Hawaii and a sampling of the wonderful sights and sounds that the Hawaiian Island have to offer! In this guide, we will give you enough information to begin your exploration of Hawaii but not enough to remove any possibility of a serendipitous experience that pleasantly surprises you. Let’s jump right in!

Whether you are at home, at the office, or anywhere in between, you have already taken the first step to realizing an amazing trip to Hawaii because you are reading our travel guide! This guide will hopefully help bolster your confidence in planning your upcoming trip!

Where to start? Let’s go over a brief history of Hawaii. To fully appreciate the physical and cultural beauty of Hawaii, one should know a little bit about Hawaii’s history. Some historians place the earliest settlement of Hawaii by Polynesian people all the way back to the 11th century. After hundreds of years of coexistence, many of the dispersed islands were unified as the Hawaiian Kingdom in 1810. After years of U.S. involvement in the internal affairs of Hawaii, the U.S. annexed Hawaii as a territory in 1898. It was not until 1959 that Hawaii became the 50th and final U.S. state. Honolulu, as the state capital, remains the epicenter of commerce, transportation, and government to this day.

 

Destination Overview

Although Hawaii is an archipelago comprised of 137 islands, there are eight major islands within this group. Below is a brief description of each island:

Major Islands

1. Hawaii (Big Island): The largest and youngest of the Hawaiian Islands, often referred to as the Big Island to avoid confusion with the name of the entire state. It is renowned for its diverse landscapes, including active volcanoes, lush rainforests, black sand beaches, and vast lava fields. Major attractions include Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Mauna Kea Observatory, and Hilo’s tropical gardens.
2. Maui: Known as the “Valley Isle,” Maui is celebrated for its stunning beaches, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant culture. Visitors flock to iconic spots such as the Road to Hana, Haleakalā National Park, and the luxury resorts of Wailea and Kaanapali.
3. Oahu: Home to the state capital, Honolulu, Oahu is the most populous island and a hub of cultural and economic activity. It is famous for its world-renowned surfing spots like Waikiki Beach, historic sites such as Pearl Harbor, and scenic landmarks like Diamond Head Crater and the North Shore.
4. Kauai: Dubbed the “Garden Isle,” Kauai boasts lush, emerald landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and stunning waterfalls. It’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like hiking the Kalalau Trail, exploring Waimea Canyon (often called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”), and cruising along the breathtaking Na Pali Coast.
5. Molokai: Known for its laid-back atmosphere and preserved Hawaiian culture, Molokai offers visitors a glimpse into traditional island life. Highlights include the Kalaupapa National Historical Park, the towering sea cliffs of the north shore, and Papohaku Beach, one of Hawaii’s longest beaches.
6. Lanai: Once known as the “Pineapple Isle” due to its extensive pineapple plantations, Lanai is now a luxurious retreat with pristine beaches, world-class golf courses, and exclusive resorts such as the Four Seasons Resort Lanai.
7. Niihau: Often referred to as the “Forbidden Isle,” Niihau is privately owned and inhabited primarily by native Hawaiians. Access to the island is restricted, and tourism is limited.
8. Kahoolawe: Historically used as a target range by the US military, Kahoolawe is uninhabited and largely undeveloped. Efforts are underway to restore the island’s ecosystem and cultural significance.

These islands collectively offer a wealth of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and recreational opportunities for visitors to explore and enjoy.

Island Features

Hawaii’s landscape is a mesmerizing blend of diverse natural elements, shaped by volcanic activity, lush vegetation, and stunning coastlines.

Here’s a breakdown:

• Volcanoes: Hawaii is renowned for its volcanic landscape, with active and dormant volcanoes scattered across the islands. The most famous among them is Kilauea, located in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island. These volcanoes have shaped the islands over millions of years, creating dramatic landscapes of lava fields, craters, and lava tubes.
• Mountains: The islands boast impressive mountain ranges, with Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa on the Big Island standing as two of the tallest mountains in the world when measured from their base on the ocean floor. These mountains are characterized by rugged terrain, lush forests, and diverse ecosystems.

• Beaches: Hawaii is renowned for its world-class beaches, featuring powdery white sand, turquoise waters, and excellent surfing conditions. From the iconic Waikiki Beach on Oahu to the secluded stretches of sand on Maui’s Hana Coast, there is a beach for every preference, whether you’re looking to swim, snorkel, or simply relax.

• Rainforests: The islands are home to lush rainforests teeming with biodiversity. These forests are characterized by dense vegetation, towering trees, and vibrant flora and fauna. Hiking trails wind through these forests, offering opportunities to encounter native species such as colorful birds, endemic plants, and rare insects.
• Waterfalls: Hawaii boasts numerous breathtaking waterfalls cascading down verdant cliffs into freshwater pools below. Some of the most iconic waterfalls include Akaka Falls on the Big Island, Manoa Falls on Oahu, and Wailua Falls on Kauai. These natural wonders are often accessible via short hikes through lush landscapes.

• Coral Reefs: Surrounding the islands are vibrant coral reefs, home to a dazzling array of marine life. Snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities abound, allowing visitors to explore colorful coral gardens, swim alongside tropical fish, and encounter sea turtles and other marine creatures.

• Cliffs and Canyons: Hawaii features dramatic coastal cliffs and deep canyons carved by millennia of erosion. One notable example is the Na Pali Coast on Kauai, renowned for its towering sea cliffs, lush valleys, and secluded beaches accessible only by boat or hiking.

Overall, Hawaii’s landscape is a testament to the awe-inspiring power of nature, offering visitors an unparalleled mix of natural wonders to explore and enjoy.

Getting There

Flying from the mainland USA, one could easily underestimate the distance between the Hawaiian Islands and the continental USA. At its closest point, Hawaii is approximately 2,045 nautical miles (3,787km) away from the coast of California.

Traveling to Hawaii offers several options depending on your location, budget, and preferences. Here are two common ways to travel to the Hawaiian Islands:

 

Arriving by Air

Numerous airlines offer flights to Hawaii from various domestic and international locations. Here are some of the major airlines that fly to Honolulu, Hawaii:

1. Hawaiian Airlines: As the largest carrier based in Hawaii, Hawaiian Airlines offers extensive service to and from the Hawaiian Islands, including flights between Honolulu and the cities of Austin, Boston, Las Vegas, Long Beach, Los Angeles, New York City, Oakland, Ontario (CA), Phoenix, Portland, Salt Lake City, San Diego, San Francisco, San Jose, and Seattle.
2. Alaska Airlines: Alaska Airlines operates flights to Hawaii from cities on the West Coast, including Anchorage, Los Angeles, Oakland, Portland, San Diego, San Francisco, San Jose, and Seattle.
3. American Airlines: American Airlines operates flights to Hawaii from several mainland U.S. cities, including Dallas/Fort Worth, Los Angeles, and Phoenix.
4. Delta Air Lines: Delta offers flights to Hawaii from multiple mainland U.S. hubs, such as Atlanta, Los Angeles, Minneapolis, New York City, Salt Lake City, and Seattle.
5. United Airlines: United Airlines serves Hawaii from its hubs in cities like Chicago, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, Oakland, and San Francisco.
6. Southwest Airlines: Southwest Airlines offers flights to Hawaii from cities like Las Vegas, Long Beach, Los Angeles, Oakland, Phoenix, Sacramento, San Diego, and San Jose.
7. Japan Airlines (JAL): JAL offers flights to Hawaii from several cities in Japan, including Osaka and Tokyo.
8. All Nippon Airways (ANA): ANA operates flights to Hawaii from Tokyo.
9. Qantas operates direct flights from Melbourne and Sydney to Honolulu with connecting flights to various Australian cities.
10. Air Canada operates direct flights to Honolulu from Vancouver with connecting flights to Calgary, Edmonton, and Toronto.
11. Air New Zealand (from Auckland)
12. Philippine Airlines (from Manila)
13. Korean Air (from Seoul-Incheon)
14. Asiana Airlines (from Seoul-Incheon)
15. Fiji Airways (from Nadi)

Above, we have summarized the list of airlines that, at the time of us writing this blog, offer service to Hawaii. It is important to check with individual airlines for current routes, schedules, and availability when planning your trip to Hawaii.

Search flights to Hawaii

 

Arriving by Cruise Ship

Several cruise lines offer itineraries that include stops in Hawaii, allowing travelers to explore the islands while enjoying the amenities and activities aboard the ship. Some of the cruise lines that offer cruises to Hawaii include:

1. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Norwegian Cruise Line offers various itineraries to Hawaii departing from ports on the U.S. West Coast, such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Vancouver, Canada. These cruises typically include stops at multiple Hawaiian islands, such as Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island.
2. Princess Cruises: Princess Cruises offers Hawaiian cruises departing from ports including Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Vancouver. These cruises often feature a mix of Hawaiian ports of call and other destinations in the Pacific.
3. Royal Caribbean International: Royal Caribbean occasionally offers cruises to Hawaii as part of longer itineraries that may include other destinations in the Pacific, such as Australia, New Zealand, or the South Pacific islands. There are dedicated cruises to Hawaii from Vancouver, Canada.
4. Holland America Line: Holland America Line offers cruises to Hawaii departing from various West Coast ports, including San Diego, Los Angeles, and Vancouver. These cruises typically feature a mix of Hawaiian ports of call and other Pacific destinations.
5. Celebrity Cruises: Celebrity Cruises occasionally offers cruises to Hawaii as part of its longer Pacific itineraries, departing from ports such as Los Angeles and Vancouver.
6. Carnival Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line occasionally offers cruises to Hawaii departing from West Coast ports like Los Angeles and San Francisco. These cruises may include stops at multiple Hawaiian islands.
7. MSC Cruises: MSC Cruises offers occasional cruises to Hawaii as part of longer itineraries that may include stops in other Pacific islands or regions.

When planning your trip to Hawaii, consider factors such as cost, travel time, convenience, and the experience you want to have. Booking in advance and comparing different transportation options can help you find the best fit for your needs. Additionally, be sure to check travel restrictions, entry requirements, and health guidelines.

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Accommodation Options

Honolulu boasts a wide array of hotels ranging from luxurious beachfront resorts to boutique properties with unique charm. Here are some of the top hotels in Honolulu:

1. The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort:
   • Known as the “Pink Palace of the Pacific,” this iconic hotel is located on Waikiki Beach and offers luxurious accommodations, exquisite dining options, and a beautiful beachfront setting. During my first trip to Honolulu, Hawaii, I stayed at The Royal Hawaiian Resort. Having originally opened its door in 1927, this spectacular pink-peach colored hotel is quickly approaching its 100th year anniversary. This classic property is in a prime spot along Honolulu’s famous Waikiki Beach. Every morning, after waking up and grabbing a cup of local coffee, I often took leisurely strolls along the beach and marveled at the soft sand, the Pacific Ocean, and the backdrop of Diamond Head in the near distance.
2. Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa:
   • This historic hotel is the oldest in Waikiki and offers a blend of classic elegance and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy oceanfront rooms, a spa, and several dining options.
3. Halekulani:
   • Situated on Waikiki Beach, Halekulani is renowned for its impeccable service, stunning ocean views, and luxurious accommodations. The hotel features elegant rooms, award-winning restaurants, and a serene spa.
4. Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach:
   • This modern and stylish hotel offers contemporary rooms with ocean views, a rooftop pool, multiple dining options, and a prime location just steps from Waikiki Beach.
5. Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina:
   • Located on Oahu’s western coast, this luxurious resort offers spacious rooms and suites, multiple pools, a serene spa, and a variety of dining options. Guests can also enjoy access to the Ko Olina Golf Club and nearby attractions.
6. The Kahala Hotel & Resort:
   • Situated on a secluded beach just outside of Waikiki, The Kahala offers luxurious accommodations, world-class dining, a dolphin encounter program, and a serene spa.
7. Lotus Diamond Head:
   • Formerly the W Honolulu, this luxurious hotel boasts stunning views of Diamond Head crater and the Pacific Ocean. With its upscale amenities, exquisite dining options, and serene atmosphere, it offers guests an unforgettable tropical retreat.
8. Sheraton Waikiki:
   • Located on Waikiki Beach, this large resort offers modern rooms with ocean views, several pools including an infinity-edge pool, multiple dining options, and a convenient location near shopping and nightlife.
9. Prince Waikiki:
   • Situated at the edge of Waikiki, Prince Waikiki offers modern rooms with panoramic ocean views, an infinity-edge pool overlooking the harbor, several dining options, and a golf course nearby.
10. Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort:
    • Nestled on the shores of Waikiki Beach, this resort offers spacious rooms with ocean views, multiple dining options, a beachfront pool, and cultural activities such as hula lessons and ukulele classes.

These are just a few of the top hotels in Honolulu, each offering its own unique blend of luxury, amenities, and Hawaiian hospitality. Whether you are looking for a beachfront retreat, a luxurious resort experience, or a boutique hotel with local charm, Honolulu has options to suit every preference.

If you decide to stay elsewhere on Oahu or venture from Oahu to take in the beauty and the majestic vibes of the surrounding islands, you have a wide range of options for hotel accommodations.

• Hotels on Oahu
• Hotels on Hawaii Island (Big Island)
• Hotels on Maui
• Hotels on Kauai
• Hotels on Molokai
• Hotels on Lanai

 

Activities Roundup

While spending time in Honolulu, there’s plenty to keep you entertained. Here’s a diverse list of activities and attractions to consider:

1. Visit Waikiki Beach: Spend a day soaking up the sun, swimming, or trying out water sports like surfing or paddleboarding.
2. Hike Diamond Head: Take a morning hike up Diamond Head Crater for panoramic views of Honolulu and the coastline.
3. Explore Pearl Harbor: Spend a few hours visiting Pearl Harbor and its historic sites, including the USS Arizona Memorial and the USS Missouri.
4. Enjoy Local Cuisine: Indulge in Hawaiian delicacies like poke, plate lunches, and shave ice at local eateries and food trucks.
5. Take a Sunset Cruise: Book a sunset cruise along the coast to enjoy breathtaking views of the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.
6. Visit the Honolulu Museum of Art: Spend a few hours exploring the extensive art collections at the Honolulu Museum of Art, featuring both traditional and contemporary works.
7. Shop at Ala Moana Center: Shop till you drop at Ala Moana Center, one of the largest open-air shopping malls in the world, featuring a wide range of stores and restaurants.
8. Explore Chinatown: Wander through Honolulu’s Chinatown district, filled with vibrant markets, art galleries, and unique shops.
9. Relax at Kapiolani Park: Spend a leisurely afternoon picnicking or strolling through Kapiolani Park, located near Waikiki Beach.
10. Experience a Luau: Attend a traditional Hawaiian luau to immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture, music, and dance.
11. Snorkel at Hanauma Bay: Spend a morning snorkeling at Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, home to a diverse array of marine life and vibrant coral reefs.
12. Take a Scenic Drive: Rent a car and take a scenic drive along the coastline, stopping at lookout points and scenic spots along the way.
13. Visit the Iolani Palace: Explore the historic Iolani Palace, the former residence of Hawaiian monarchs and a symbol of Hawaii’s royal heritage.
14. Attend a Farmer’s Market: Start your day by visiting a local farmer’s market to sample fresh tropical fruits, baked goods, and artisanal products.
15. Relax on a Beach: Wind down your weekend by simply relaxing on one of Honolulu’s beautiful beaches, listening to the sound of the waves and enjoying the island breeze.

 

Hungry? What’s to Eat?

Hawaii offers a diverse and vibrant food scene with a wide range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. Here are some popular food options you can find in Hawaii:

1. Hawaiian Cuisine:
   • Sample traditional Hawaiian dishes such as poi (taro paste), laulau (steamed pork or fish wrapped in taro leaves), kalua pig (roasted pork), and lomi-lomi salmon (a type of salmon salad).
2. Poke:
   • Enjoy fresh poke, a traditional Hawaiian dish made with raw fish (usually tuna or salmon) marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and other seasonings. Poke bowls are often customizable with various toppings and sauces.
3. Plate Lunch:
   • Try a classic Hawaiian plate lunch, typically consisting of a protein (such as teriyaki chicken, kalua pig, or mahi-mahi), two scoops of rice, and macaroni salad.
4. Asian Cuisine:
   • Explore Hawaii’s diverse Asian food scene with options including Japanese sushi, ramen, and tempura; Chinese dim sum and noodles; Korean barbecue; and Vietnamese pho and banh mi.
5. Seafood:
   • Indulge in fresh seafood dishes featuring locally caught fish and shellfish, including ahi (yellowfin tuna), mahi-mahi, shrimp, lobster, and opakapaka (pink snapper).
6. Farm-to-Table Restaurants:
   • Experience farm-to-table dining at restaurants that emphasize locally sourced ingredients and innovative cuisine inspired by Hawaiian flavors and traditions.
7. Food Trucks:
   • Explore Hawaii’s food truck scene, where you can find a variety of tasty offerings ranging from tacos and burgers to Korean barbecue and shave ice.
8. International Cuisine:
   • Enjoy a diverse array of international cuisines, including Italian, French, Mediterranean, Indian, Middle Eastern, and more, with many restaurants offering authentic flavors and ingredients.
9. Shave Ice:
   • Cool off with a refreshing treat of shave ice, a beloved Hawaiian dessert made with finely shaved ice topped with flavored syrups and sometimes condensed milk and ice cream.
10. Bakeries and Cafés:
    • Satisfy your sweet tooth or enjoy a leisurely brunch at one of Honolulu’s bakeries and cafés, offering pastries, cakes, coffee, and breakfast and brunch dishes.
11. Fine Dining:
    • Treat yourself to an upscale dining experience at one of Honolulu’s fine dining restaurants, where you can enjoy gourmet cuisine, impeccable service, and stunning views of the ocean or city skyline.
12. Food Markets and Festivals:
    • Check out local food markets and festivals to sample a variety of Hawaiian and international dishes, as well as artisanal products and crafts.

Whether you are craving traditional Hawaiian fare, fresh seafood, or international cuisine, Honolulu has something to satisfy every palate. Be sure to explore different neighborhoods and dining establishments to discover the full range of culinary delights that the city has to offer.

 

Nightlife

Honolulu offers a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of options for those looking to enjoy the evening hours. Here are some popular nightlife options in Honolulu:

1. Bars and Lounges:
   • Explore Honolulu’s diverse selection of bars and lounges, ranging from rooftop bars with panoramic views to cozy speakeasies and beachfront tiki bars. Some popular spots include Sky Waikiki, Bar Leather Apron, and Lewers Lounge.
2. Nightclubs:
   • Dance the night away at one of Honolulu’s nightclubs, where you can find live music, DJs spinning the latest beats, and energetic crowds. Popular nightclubs include NextDoor, District Nightclub, and Scarlet Honolulu.
3. Live Music Venues:
   • Enjoy live music performances at venues throughout Honolulu, featuring local bands, touring acts, and artists from various genres. Some venues to check out include Blue Note Hawaii, The Republik, and Mai Tai Bar.
4. Waikiki Beach Bars:
   • Experience the laid-back vibe of Waikiki Beach at one of its many beach bars, where you can sip tropical cocktails while watching the sunset or listening to live music. Some popular beach bars include Duke’s Waikiki, Barefoot Beach Cafe, and RumFire Waikiki.
5. Karaoke Bars:
   • Sing your heart out at one of Honolulu’s karaoke bars, where you can find private rooms for groups or join in the fun with a lively crowd. Some popular karaoke bars include GS Studio Karaoke, Wang Chung’s Karaoke Bar, and Air Park Karaoke Lounge.
6. Late-Night Eateries:
   • Satisfy your late-night cravings at Honolulu’s late-night eateries, which offer a variety of cuisines and dining options to fuel your nightlife adventures. Some spots to try include Zippy’s, Side Street Inn, and Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck.
7. Cultural Shows:
   • Immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture with a traditional luau or cultural show, featuring live music, hula dancing, and traditional Hawaiian cuisine. Some popular luaus include Germaine’s Luau, Paradise Cove Luau, and Chief’s Luau.
8. Bar Hopping Tours:
   • Join a bar hopping tour to experience Honolulu’s nightlife scene with a knowledgeable guide who will lead you to some of the city’s best bars, lounges, and clubs. Look for tours that offer transportation and VIP access to venues.
9. Events and Festivals:
   • Keep an eye out for special events and festivals happening in Honolulu, such as art walks, food festivals, and music concerts, which often feature live entertainment and activities well into the night.

Whether you’re looking for a laid-back evening with cocktails on the beach or a lively night of dancing and entertainment, Honolulu offers nightlife options to suit every taste and mood.

 

Wrapping Things Up

There you go, Tern Trekkers! We hope that you have enough information to confidently begin planning your next trip to Hawaii! This blog covered Hawaii in general with a focus on Honolulu. In future blogs we will take a closer look at each of the main Hawaiian Islands separately. The best way to ensure that you don’t miss out on our content is to follow our socials! Stay tuned!

For up-to-date travel information, visit us at www.terntrek.com.

 

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