The Best Tropical Islands: Hawaii

Set near the middle of the Pacific Ocean, Hawaii has everything you could ever want and more. There’s beautiful beaches, amazing jungles, monstrous waterfalls, excellent diving, and world class waves. With such a diverse landscape and so many different islands, there is something for everyone here. From honeymoon vacations to beach hut hideaway, Hawaii also accommodates all budgets. This is a place for everyone to hang out, relax, and catch a few good waves.

Quick Facts About Hawaii
Capital: Honolulu
Population: 1,300,000
Size: 6,470 sq mi (16,758 sq km)
Power Outlets: 110V 60Hz
Official Languages: English
Currency: US Dollar
Time Zone: GMT -10
Religion: Mixed
Calling Code: +1

When to go: June through October is the hottest period, while rainfall is heaviest between December and March.

Cost and Budgeting for Hawaii
Hawaii can be very expensive. Everything, except fruit, is imported and high shipping costs usually translate into high vacation prices. Expect to need at least US$70 dollars per day on a moderate budget, more if you plan on doing a lot of activities. Hotel prices are lowest during the spring (April to mid-May) and autumn (October to mid-November). Prices usually rise during big holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years and Easter. Visiting between mid-April and mid-November can be a bargain because some hotel prices drop in the off-season.

As you’d expect from such a well-established player on the tropical islands tourism scene, Hawaii has its fair share of upmarket accommodation. Luxury hotels in Hawaii, in particular, are plentiful, from the Halekulani in Waikiki to the Kahala in Honolulu and the Four Seasons Resort Maui – one of the largest and best located luxury hotels in Hawaii.

As like the rest of America, tipping is expected in cafes, restaurants and better hotels. The going rate in restaurants is 15% or more of the bill.

Things to Do and See in Hawaii
See Hawaii Volcanoes National Park- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has two active volcanoes and diverse terrain. The centerpiece is Kilauea Caldera, the still-steaming sunken center of Kilauea Volcano. Rangers can provide the lowdown on guided walks and trail conditions.
Visit Diamond Head State Monument- This mountain was formed by a violent steam explosion beneath the surface and the crater is the site of Diamond Head State Monument. There’s hiking up to the crater summit but don’t expect an easy walk as it’s a fairly steep hike. But, once you get to the top, there are some great photo opportunities of the island.
Helicopter Tours- Hawaii’s lush jungles, high mountains, and steep waterfalls provide a lovely backdrop for a helicopter tour of the islands. They may be expensive but these tours give you a breath taking bird’s eye view.
Horseback Riding- Nothing is more romantic than a horseback ride along the beach. There are a number of tour operators that can organize a sunset ride for the honeymooners.
Museums- Hawaii is steeped in history and there are a number of museums throughout the country. The most famous relate to the bombing of Pearl Harbor.
Whale Watching- Whales often migrate past the islands and there are a wide variety of species that come through. The whales are friendly, sightings abundant, and tons of operators looking to take you out.
Scuba Diving/Snorkeling- The waters around the islands of Hawaii are teeming with life. The tropical waters provide excellent opportunities to take a look at under water life. The biggest marine preserve in America is located in here.
Surfing- Surfing is life in Hawaii and it’s famous North Beach attract some of the best surfers in the world. Waves here are extreme and not for amateurs. If you want to learn, there’s plenty of places around the islands with smaller waves and people who will teach you. If you’re a board surfer, you’ll find the biggest waves in winter. If you’re a wind surfer, the best wind conditions are in summer.
Hula in Hawaii-Hula is a uniquely Hawaiian dance accompanied by chant or song that preserves and perpetuates the stories, traditions, and culture of Hawaii. You can see authentic hulu throughout the island or you can typically always find live performances at resorts and hotels.
See live music- You can find live music all over Hawaii on all of the islands. And, of course with good live music comes dancing, drinks, and a night of fun.
Go to the Spa- Make your visit to Hawaii more than a vacation-make it a time to heal your body, mind, and spirit.

Looking for more detailed information? Click on the topics below: