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Luxury Vacations: The Hawaiian Islands are world famous for its picture-perfect beaches, lush tropical greenery, captivating sunsets, exotic marine life, and year-round temperate climate. With so much to see and do in Hawaii, it comes as no surprise that Hawaii ranks high among travelers looking for both adventure and romance.
Hawaii consists of six major islands -- K'auai, O'ahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui and the Big Island -- and is considered the birthplace of surfing and the hula. With each island offering a distinct personality and boasting an array of activities, selecting a desired destination can often be overwhelming. For this reason, we have created a simple guide designed to take the guess work out of planning your next Hawaiian vacation.
 K'auai
Nicknamed "The Garden Isle," K'auai is the oldest of the Hawaiian Islands and is home to Mount Wai'ale'ale, which has earned a reputation for being the wettest spot on earth. While the beaches of K'aui are idyllic for sailing, snorkeling, hiking and fishing, it is the massive waves that have put K'aui beaches on the map. Here, surfers can find some of the largest swells on the planet. From the cascading waterfalls to the imposing sea cliffs that run along Na Pali Coast, K'auai is considered the most tropical of all the islands. K'auai offers visitors a myriad of activities and provides endless excitement for the adventurous traveler. For travelers looking for an island oasis that offers the best of everything, the Grand Hyatt Resort & Spa is sure to please.  O'ahuDubbed "The Gathering Place," O'ahu is Hawaii's most populous island. For years, the shores of Honolulu and Waikiki have proven to be a lovers' paradise, playing host to countless weddings, honeymoons and romantic retreats. Rich in culture, the island of O'ahu is home to several historical landmarks such as Pearl Harbor, Nuuanu Pali Lookout, Iolani Palace, the Dole Plantation, and the legendary North Shore. Visitors to Oahu will find a wide array of luxury accommodations such as the Halekulani in Honolulu. Molokai Known for its aloha spirit, Molokai is aptly referred to as "The Friendly Island." Molokai offers visitors a glimpse of the old Hawaiian tradition and provides an enthralling escape into the unknown. With a tropical rain forest, a barrier reef, and ancient Hawaiian temples, the island is a favorite among those seeking adventure. While Molokai provides endless opportunities for discovery, the everyday vibe of the island and its people is extremely laidback. Because Molokai does not draw the same crowds as some of the other Hawaiian Islands, it is ideal for those in need of a quiet, carefree vacation. |
Lanai
Like Molokai, Lanai offers a whirlwind of recreational activities ranging from hiking and biking to horseback riding and scuba diving. Whether it's by land, by sea or by air, there is adventure lurking around every corner. Known as "The Pineapple Island," Lanai is a small island oasis located just nine miles from Maui. While the island spans just 18 miles, visitors to Lanai will find plenty to see and do. The island is home to two championship golf courses, Koele and The Challenge at Manele. Additional attractions include the volcanic ridge of Lanaihale, the rustic Munro Trail, the dolphin inhabited Hulopoe Bay, and the World War II-era ship at Shipwreck Beach.
Maui
Maui is the second largest Hawaiian Island and with its abundance of local activities, it has become a popular haven for tourists. Commonly referred to as "The Magic Isle," Maui is home to sun-drenched beaches, majestic landscapes, volcanic masses, and a wide range of local entertainment. Travelers can spend the day whale watching, snorkeling in Kaanapali, golfing on world-famous links, or simply lounging on Maui's white sandy beaches.
A trip to Maui is not complete without spending a day perusing the quaint shops along the streets of Lâhainâ. For a traditional Hawaiian experience, be sure to visit the Old Lahaina Lu'au where you can feast on local delicacies and watch one of the best luau shows on the island. Make the most of your Maui vacation by staying at one of the many luxury resorts, such as the award-winning Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea.
Hawaii's Big Island
Appropriately named, Hawaii's Big Island is larger than all of the Hawaiian Islands combined. The Big Island is home to Mauna Kea, the tallest snow-capped mountain on earth as well as Kilauea, the most active volcano in the world. Due to the island's massive volcano activity, much of the Big Island is blanked in black lava, sprinkled with gleaming white pieces of coral. The Big Island is steeped in history with numerous ancient Hawaiian temples, and its three major tourist areas include Hilo, Kona Coast, and North Kohala. Experience the best of the Big Island by staying at The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, a world-class retreat located on the sunny Kohala Coast.
While the Hawaiian Islands have long been a favorite wedding and honeymoon destination, the coastal paradise has plenty to offer for those who have yet to be struck by cupid's arrow. Each of Hawaii's six major islands offer something to be enjoyed and no matter which island you find yourself on, a trip to Hawaii is an experience that should be had by all.
For JustLuxe Christina Stewart
Like Molokai, Lanai offers a whirlwind of recreational activities ranging from hiking and biking to horseback riding and scuba diving. Whether it's by land, by sea or by air, there is adventure lurking around every corner. Known as "The Pineapple Island," Lanai is a small island oasis located just nine miles from Maui. While the island spans just 18 miles, visitors to Lanai will find plenty to see and do. The island is home to two championship golf courses, Koele and The Challenge at Manele. Additional attractions include the volcanic ridge of Lanaihale, the rustic Munro Trail, the dolphin inhabited Hulopoe Bay, and the World War II-era ship at Shipwreck Beach.
Maui
Maui is the second largest Hawaiian Island and with its abundance of local activities, it has become a popular haven for tourists. Commonly referred to as "The Magic Isle," Maui is home to sun-drenched beaches, majestic landscapes, volcanic masses, and a wide range of local entertainment. Travelers can spend the day whale watching, snorkeling in Kaanapali, golfing on world-famous links, or simply lounging on Maui's white sandy beaches.
A trip to Maui is not complete without spending a day perusing the quaint shops along the streets of Lâhainâ. For a traditional Hawaiian experience, be sure to visit the Old Lahaina Lu'au where you can feast on local delicacies and watch one of the best luau shows on the island. Make the most of your Maui vacation by staying at one of the many luxury resorts, such as the award-winning Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea.
Hawaii's Big Island
Appropriately named, Hawaii's Big Island is larger than all of the Hawaiian Islands combined. The Big Island is home to Mauna Kea, the tallest snow-capped mountain on earth as well as Kilauea, the most active volcano in the world. Due to the island's massive volcano activity, much of the Big Island is blanked in black lava, sprinkled with gleaming white pieces of coral. The Big Island is steeped in history with numerous ancient Hawaiian temples, and its three major tourist areas include Hilo, Kona Coast, and North Kohala. Experience the best of the Big Island by staying at The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, a world-class retreat located on the sunny Kohala Coast.
While the Hawaiian Islands have long been a favorite wedding and honeymoon destination, the coastal paradise has plenty to offer for those who have yet to be struck by cupid's arrow. Each of Hawaii's six major islands offer something to be enjoyed and no matter which island you find yourself on, a trip to Hawaii is an experience that should be had by all.
For JustLuxe Christina Stewart
