Hawaii Travel

Few people have not dreamed of vacationing on a tropical island and surely Hawaii is on the top of everyone’s list of great vacation getaways! Timeshare vacation ownership gives you the opportunity to own vacation real estate that will allow your family to enjoy all the great Hawaiian vacation destinations that you might not otherwise have the opportunity to visit!

A lifetime of vacations awaits the owner of a vacation timeshare in Hawaii with all the unusual and diverse islands and activities of Hawaii. Honolulu on the island of Oahu is probably best known as the heart of Hawaii, but there is so much more to the islands. With a vacation timeshare you can explore all the islands of Hawaii. On Maui, be sure to visit Hana which has the largest rainforest in the United States, try hiking in the Haleakala National Park, don’t miss the historic old whaling town of Lahaina and during the winter months enjoy whale watching. Kauai enjoys a very diverse climate from the wettest spot on earth to a desert and the beautiful white sand tranquility of Hanalei Bay. Championship golf is available on all the islands and some of the best surfing in the world is in Hawaii. No matter what time of year you plan your timeshare vacation in Hawaii you’ll find plenty of activities to enjoy with the whole family. You can find world renowned restaurants on any of the islands along with great local food! But it really is the great climate and friendly people that bring visitors back to Hawaii again and again.

When you buy a vacation timeshare in Hawaii you are buying a lifetime of vacations for you and your family. There are timeshares available at luxurious name brand resorts like Marriott, Hilton and Starwood with golf courses and restaurants or in community type resorts with activities for the kids. You can own a piece of Hawaii with a vacation timeshare. There is no way to place a dollar value on the time you spend vacationing with your family and loved ones, not to mention the fun!

Timeshare ownership will give you the option of exchanging it and vacationing at thousands of resorts worldwide by joining an exchange network, such as RCI or Interval International.

Timeshare resales are the best way to save money on your vacationing – often times saving you from 50-75% off developer prices. Ownership of a vacation timeshare ensures you will enjoy vacationing for a lifetime and not just be collecting rent receipts. As an owner of a timeshare you enjoy all the benefits of real estate ownership – you own a deeded piece of property which you can will to your beneficiaries or sell.

There are many exotic, romantic spots in Hawaii to spend a honeymoon. Each of Hawaii’s islands boasts of many resorts, hotels and restaurants, and many are perennial favorites of honeymooners from all over the world. These resorts offer romance, and everlasting perfect weather. They come in a range of styles and price ranges to suit any taste; they are the perfect way to complement your honeymoon in Hawaii.

On the Island of Maui, there are resort facilities that offer luxurious accommodations and surroundings. There is lots to do including helicopter tours, golfing and just about every water sport imaginable, in addition to the shopping and dining experiences. As you can see, there is something for everyone on Maui.

Maui’s Kapulua Bay has been voted one of the nation’s best beaches and there are beautiful places to hike including the rainforest. At night, the place to enjoy nightlife is any of the nightclubs on South Kihei Road. On the Big Island of Hawaii, the awe-inspiring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a must see.

Depending on your tastes, you can choose from a variety of Hawaiian honeymoon travel specials to fit nearly any budget. You may prefer a cozy cottage for two on the Garden Island of Kauai or a romantic high-country manor on mystical Lanai, rather than a stay in a major hotel. Whether you want to surf, shop, cycle, lie around on the beach, play championship golf or enjoy a secluded snuggle with your sweetie, Hawaii has the perfect island for you.

A trip to Hawaii is one that you will definitely never forget. Its natural beauty is unmatched anywhere else in the world. It has beautiful scenery, culture, and people. If you’ve never been to Hawaii, make it a priority to get there as soon as possible. There are many features that make Hawaii a unique destination.

Probably the most famous feature of the Hawaiian Islands is the numerous volcanoes that found there. Volcanoes are what caused the formation of the islands in the first place and they are a big part of what makes them special today. Kilauea is by far the most active of all the volcanoes. It has basically been erupting a little bit every day for the better part of twenty years. Watching the lava hit the ocean is an interesting experience in itself. The two extreme temperatures meeting cause steam to rise up high above the water. The rapid cooling of the lava forms rocks and they break into many pieces. This is something you’ll definitely want to check out while in Hawaii.

The volcanoes also contribute to another well-known feature of Hawaii. The black sand beaches that cover the big island are a one-of-a-kind sight. Many destinations brag about their white sandy beaches, but Hawaii has the exact opposite. It is something that you must see to believe.

Other beautiful sights in Hawaii are the amazing waterfalls. Akaka Falls is a state park that you can observe a 442-foot high waterfall. The water cascading over the falls presents a relaxing atmosphere. You can view the falls from multiple places inside the park.

Hawaii also offers world-class accommodations for every traveler. On the island of Oahu, there are over 30,000 hotel rooms. This obviously presents you with a multitude of choices. You can choose between resorts, bed and breakfasts, or a private villa.

There really isn’t a bad time of year to plan your trip either. The weather is virtually perfect year-round. In the winter it is a little cooler, but it can still be 80 degrees. During the summer, it may get up in the high 80’s and low 90’s. However, the ocean breeze keeps it comfortable on most days.

When you’re ready to travel to the beautiful Hawaiian Islands, get ready to have fun. You’ll want to go back again and again. Be sure to find a place that fits your needs and is within your price range.

Hawaii’s reputation as an island paradise that practices a relaxed way of life makes it a top tourist destination for couples, families, and anyone who longs to leave the pressures of the mainland behind. No matter which area you choose to visit, you are sure to be pleased as you are invited to take advantage of all that this string of beautiful and welcoming islands has to offer.

The Big Island of Hawaii is home to the Kona coast, the world’s most active volcano, and miles of beaches fit for swimming, surfing, and whale-watching. If it’s history you seek, there are old coffee plantations and restored villages up to three centuries old. If your vacation is incomplete without a round of golf, then don’t miss teeing off on the Konala coast. The Big Island offers a taste of all that is Hawaii, so be prepared for endless adventure and excitement if this is where you decide to unpack your bags.

Oahu also makes for a fascinating and rejuvenating visit. For families, the Honolulu Zoo, the Waikiki Aquarium, and the Hawaiian Waters Adventure Park are great options. And, as you would expect, the beaches here are perfect for whatever it is that calls you to the water. Be it surfing, parasailing, snorkeling or fishing, it is likely that Oahu’s coastline has a spot for you to make a few memories. If you’d prefer to check things out from a different perspective, a submarine ride will give you an up close and personal view of coral reefs, exotic marine life, and perhaps a dolphin or two.

Molokai, northwest of Oahu, is the site of the world’s tallest sea cliffs. Take a hike off the beaten path, or hop onto a mule train for a truly unique experience. If you happen to stop by during the summer, make plans to enjoy the Ka Hula Piko festival. The birthplace of the hula is sure to put on a great show as it celebrates this traditional dance, inviting visitors to join in the fun.

If you’re the kind of traveler who hopes to avoid crowds and traffic, then Lanai is probably the island for you. In a place where nature runs free, it is easy to adopt a relaxed perspective on life after a few days spent exploring the untamed land. The marine conservation area located in Hulopoe Bay will take you back to the Hawaii of yesteryear, and the peaceful beaches will surely motivate you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the solitude.

For mountain views and a wide sampling of exotic flora and fauna, visit Kauai, nicknamed the “Garden Isle.” Kauai offers something for everyone, with tourist attractions clustered on the South Shore and cliffs and strong waves to be found on the North Shore. Kokee State Park is home to the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” and scattered throughout the island you can locate all types of vacation rentals. From cool streams and waterfalls to beachside shops and restaurants, this island has it all.

Hawaii is an easy place to have a great vacation no matter where you lay your head at night, but be sure to choose a place to stay that will truly accentuate your island getaway. Vacation rentals often make good sense in Hawaii, as having a private space with lots of great features tends to make island living all the more appealing. Easy access to the beach and a deck with a perfect view of the sunset will make you feel like you haven’t a care in the world.

So if the gentle strum of a ukulele is calling out to you, be sure to reward yourself with the best experience possible. Skip waiting at restaurants and choose lodging that allows you to make your own romantic dinner. Forego a cramped hotel room with a tiny window facing a swimming pool, and reserve a beachside villa instead. An array of great Hawaii Vacation Rentals, can be viewed at HomeAway.com. If you’re going to Hawaii, go all the way.

I will never forget the smell of plumerias after going to the Big Island! As soon as you get off the plane, you are engulfed by the lovely smell. The warm rays caressed my face while the gentle trade winds blew. At that moment I knew I had found paradise.

My mom is originally from Oahu, but moved to the Big Island in 1996. I have been visiting her regularly for the passed thirteen years. In that time I have learned a lot about the Big Island. I know where to look for lava, where to look for black sand beaches, where to find turtles, and how to find magical green sand. In this article I will be outlining the best features that the Big Island has to offer.

Getting There
The best way to travel to the Big Island is by plane. There are people who sail, cruise and even swim to the Big Island, but I recommend arriving by plane either to Hilo or Kona. There are a few airlines that I recommend when flying to Hawaii and two, in particular, I would stay away from at all costs. Hawaiian Airlines was established in 1929 and is the longest running airline that flies to and from Hawaii. They rely on their flight history, reputation, and loyal customers to stay in business. Hawaiian Airlines is generally on time and they provide sufficient customer service. Alaska Airlines has always treated me very well. They fly directly to Kona and Hilo from a number of cities on the west coast of the U.S., have noticeably more leg room, and best of all they provide a complimentary glass of wine, beer, or Mai Tai before landing, something that has become rare in domestic flights. If you are flying from Australia or New Zealand, Quantas and Air New Zealand are both reputable. If you are on a tight budget, look into Jetstar. Keep in mind that Jetstar is a pay as you go airline. The flights are very cheap because anything extra you have to pay for (i.e. blanket, soft drinks, head phones, pillows, food, and basically anything but the lavatory.) If you cannot fly directly to Hilo or Kona, then you will most likely fly into Honolulu and must transfer to an inter-island flight. When getting off your plane you will have to follow signs to the inter-island terminal (Use the wiki wiki bus! It will save you from a twenty minute walk in 80% humidity which you will not be used to yet.) The airline that I recommend for inter-island travel is Mokulele. They have impeccable customer service, their flights are always on time, and they still provide complimentary juice on the short flights.

IMPORTANT: When you book your initial flight, make sure you never fly United. For inter-island flights, never fly Aloha Air. These two companies have given me the most trouble out of any airline that I have flown in the entire world. The customer service is atrocious, the flights are regularly late or canceled, and both charge for checked bags. DON’T FLY THESE TWO AIRLINES!

Accommodation
There are plenty of hotels stay at around Kona and Hilo, but I recommend looking up homestays and vacation rentals online. These are usually private listings from locals who want to rent out their home for certain parts of the year. They tend to cost less than hotels and you can save by cooking at home. If you are backpacking, there are hostels in Hilo, Kona and Volcano. The Holo Holo Inn is the best for your money in Volcano. Dorm beds start at $17. Anyway, lets get to what there is to see on the Big Island!

Volcano National Park
Volcano National Park is located 30 miles west of Hilo on Highway 11. This is one of few places in the world you can see an erupting volcano. In 1983 Kilauea Volcano started erupting and has not stopped since. That is 16 years of continuous lava flow! In the park you can see a more recent surge at Halemaumau crater. Plumes of sulfur smoke rise up to 1000 feet in the air and the glow of lava can be seen from the famous Jagger Museum. Visitors can also drive down the Chain Of Craters, through historic lava from previous eruptions, down to where the lava meets the ocean. On the way visitors can walk through the Thurston Lava Tube, a 100m tunnel left behind by lava traveling under ground. Note: Sometimes the lava flow changes direction, creating an extremely long hike to see the flow into the ocean from the park. If this is the case, then ask a park ranger for direction to the Kalapana flow which is back down the road toward Hilo.

Punalu’u
30 miles further down the road from Volcano National Park is a black sand beach called Punalu’u (there are signs that lead you off the highway 1 mile). I absolutely love this beach! I don’t really recommend it for swimming or snorkeling, it’s just beautiful. When you get there, park your car take your shoes off and walk to the other end of the beach. Bring your slippers (sandals or flip flops) as the black sand can get very hot depending on the time of day. On your right you will see local kids playing in the water and waves breaking on the reef. To your left, there is a small merchant stand that sells water, snacks and souvenirs. Make sure to walk all the way to the end of the beach! This is where the Honu (turtles) rest. Note: They are more likely to be there in the morning hours. If you feel like taking a dip, watch out for rocks as the beach is not all sand in the water. If you have young children, keep an eye on them for there is a moderate undertow. To rinse off when you are done there is fresh water spring at the far end of the beach. The water is cold!

South Point
Continuing on toward South Point, you will pass a little town called Na’alehu. You have to stop at two places here. First is the Punalu’u Bakery. They have amazing pastries, including Malasadas, a traditional Hawaiian doughnut that is to die for. Across the street (near the field, public toilets and basketball court) is the Na’alehu Lunch Shop. They have ono grinds (good food), especially the fish burger if it is available. After you have filled up on lunch continue around 5 miles down the highway and turn off at the sign that marks South Point (12 miles off highway). Drive down about 12 miles and take an unmarked right turn as soon as the road flattens out and follow that to the end. This is the furthest point south in the U.S. It really is a magical place there. To be standing at the edge of America and literally be able to jump off it. I do when I go there. It’s about a 30ft. jump into the ocean. It looks somewhat shallow, but I assure you its not. Probably about 30 feet deep. I don’t recommend doing this unless there are other people jumping as the ladder up is very old and may no longer be functional when you get there. After you get your thrills from cliff jumping return to the road you turned off and take a right. Between one and two miles down the road is another pull out (unmarked as well – get used to this) where you can park. This is the entrance to the trail that leads to the magical green sand beach. If you have a four wheel drive, you can continue driving. If not, this is the end of the road for the car and you must walk. Continue toward the ocean. Right as you get to the shore, turn left onto a very, very rough road. Continue on here for about two miles until you arrive at the top of a very steep embankment. Park here and walk down to the beach. Note: For the walkers, make sure to bring lots of sunscreen, water, and sunglasses. This beach is great to swim and snorkel at. Enjoy!

Kailua-Kona
On the way to Kona you will see plenty of lava. There are few places worth seeing on the way. At Kealakekua Bay, there is a monument for Captain Cook. This is the location where the Hawaiians decided Captain Cook was not welcome and they murdered him. I highly recommend renting Kayaks and paddling across this bay. On the far side, where the monument is located, the snorkeling is extraordinary! If you are lucky, the Nia (dolphins) will be playing in the bay and you will get to see them show off!

Another great snorkeling spot before you get to Kona is Honaunau National Park. There is a fee to get into this park so have cash with you.

Kailua-Kona is the tourist town on the Big Island. If you are after night life, this is the town you will want to go to. Actually, it would be Honolulu, but because that is on another island, Kona will do. This is a good place to stop and eat, go shopping, use the bathroom, etc. I would park a few streets up Alii Dr., then walk there as parking is hard to come by without paying.

Hapuna State Park
Hapuna State Park is a beautiful white sand beach that is located about 30 miles north of Kona. If you and the family want a nice beach to spend the day at, this would be it. The only downside would be the crowds. It is a tourist beach and is often very crowded (for the Big Island). Bring sun screen and water. There are rentals shops that rent boogie boards, towels, and snorkel gear. This place is not very good for boogie boarding or snorkeling so I don’t recommend renting here. The snorkeling will seem dull compared to Honaunau and Kealakekua Bay.

Waipio Valley
I saved Waipio Valley for last. This place is amazing! From Hapuna State Park, it is about a thirty minute drive to Waipio through the town of Waimea and Honoka’a. Most people don’t get to see what Waipio Valley has to offer because two-wheel drive vehicles are forbidden to drive down the road. It is about a two mile walk which is not so bad, but the walk out is tiring to say the least. As you approach the bottom of the hill on your way in, turn right and continue until you hit the ocean. Waipio is the sight where the 1995 film Waterworld ended. The valley itself has steep cliffs carved out by millions of years of erosion. In the back of the valley a waterfall plummets toward the Taro fields. The river meanders through the valley running directly into the ocean. The black sand beach is about a mile and has horses grazing up and down the beach. Most of the land in the valley is private and due to the geography of the land, the horses can roam freely. You should not feed the horses! And be careful because they are known to buck. Waipio is known to be a great camping and surfing spot as well.

There is more to be seen on the Big Island than what I described. These are just some of the highlights on the Big Island. One of my favorite things to do is explore the island. I encourage anyone spending time there to explore and see what the island reveals to you. You will be amazed at what you will find. Safe Travels.

If you want to live in Hawaii, you need to plan ahead to survive living in one of the most expensive states in the U.S. Hawaii’s cost of living is much higher than on the U.S. mainland.

Two of your biggest concerns would be the cost of housing and food and finding a job that makes enough money to pay your bills. Hawaii rents vary by city or town, but expect to pay from $600 to $1,000 for a studio and about $1,500 to $2,000 for a 2-bedroom apartment per month.

About 90% of all groceries and other supplies in Hawaii are imported, which drives the prices up. Dining out can also be costly, depending where you eat. Breakfast averages at $5 to $8, lunch is around $12, while dinner can go up from $12 to $30.

What makes living in Hawaii seem more impossible is the fact that the islands lack high-paying jobs. Engineering jobs, for instance, are harder to find than waitressing jobs.

But don’t get discouraged by these facts. With the right knowledge about where to live and dine inexpensively and where to get your groceries at a good price, you’d be able to live comfortably in the islands even on an average budget. Here are some tips on how get around and enjoy living in Hawaii.

* Acquaint yourself with Hawaii. Check out online travel websites, magazines and books for information about the islands, from its beaches down to its restaurants. Get a detailed map of the islands to give yourself a sense of direction even before you arrive.  

* Understand Hawaii’s statistics, such as median real estate tax and population density of its towns and cities. This can help you choose the right Hawaii island to move to. For instance, Oahu is more populated than the other Hawaiian islands. If you want to be surrounded by fewer people and prefer a more a laid-back atmosphere, then you should choose other islands like Kauai and Molokai. However, Oahu has the best job opportunities. Unemployment on the other islands is higher than on Oahu.

* Look for cheap apartments by reading local newspapers. You can check out affordable apartments at online websites of local newspapers, such as The Honolulu Advertiser and the The Star Bulletin (honoluuluadvertiser.com and starbulletin.com). Hawaii Craigslist is also a good website to check for local apartment listings. You can also find roommates on this website to share a place with. Compare rental amounts, contact the advertisers for terms of lease and ask for photos. To save on rent consider a sharing a place.

* To be able to handle the cost of living in Hawaii, of course, you’d need a job. Craigslist is a good website to start your search. Also check the local newspapers. Other sources you can look into are local employment agencies such as Altres. 

* Look for and use weekly specials to find out the best bargains of the week or month.

* Get your groceries and other such needs at affordable chain stores like Costco, Sam’s Club and Wal-Mart. You will also save a lot if you buy in bulk.