Planning your trip to Hawaii

It will be hard to choose which of the six islands of Hawaii to visit as you can see from our series on the Hawaiian Islands. This state hosts so many wonderful wonders from breathtaking waterfalls, volcanoes, tropical delights, ocean greatness fit for watching sea life, snorkeling and surfing. It is a destination within reach. No need for passports, great weather throughout the year and plenty to do! It is a destination for families, honeymoons and romance.

So if you are like me, Hawaii is a bucket list destination for you and how are you going to plan for such a trip. You may want to visit all the islands or atleast many of them to get the full experience. Afterall, it may be your only visit to Hawaii right? Although after you visit you this may be your go to destination! As with any vacation, planning is key. You will need to plan your time off, set your budget and make a list of your must do’s. Many visitors to Hawaii set aside 7-14 days depending on how much they want to see. Your budget will need to be a healthy one as you can only arrive by land or sea. Airfare ranges between $880 – $1500 and fluctuates often. Resort costs are fairly typical, but as with any travel to islands food can be a little higher than you are used to at home.

One cost effective way to travel to Hawaii is via cruise. I say cost effective because your vacation is pretty much paid for before you leave home since your food is included in your cruise package. One of my favorite ships to sail is the Pride of America on Norwegian Cruise line. Recently renovated, the Pride of America has been sailing to Hawaii for many years. It has recently been voted the best Hawaii Itinerary. With a variety of Itineraries, you can hit most of the highlights. You can choose packages that include pre cruise land stay or just cruise only.

If you are more adventurous or a little shy of cruising and want to dive into one or more islands on your trip there are packages that will include your flights, accommodations, excursions. This way gives you the flexibility to customize where you want to be and when.

Whatever way you want to go – land or sea, you will want to work with your Must Love Travel Planner to help you create a spectacular vacation. Plan ahead. This bucket list destination is a place you will not want to miss. The history, gorgeous views, culture and volcanic wonders are calling your name! If you missed any of the island articles we have recently published, go back and check them out!

Molokai, known as the Friendly Isle, is the 5th largest Island and home to the longest continuous fringing reef, at 28 miles long. This is a perfect place for scuba diving and snorkeling where you will see natural “finger” coral. The adventure traveler will love this island as it is absent of attractions and commercial activity.

At 38 Miles long and 10 miles wide, this island makes it easy to discover the jungles, and some of the most remote parts of Hawaii. Visit Halawa Valley on the east end and you will not be disappointed by the breathtaking vistas and cascading waterfalls including Mooula Falls.

Beaches on Molokai are beautiful but not necessarily the best place for swimming. Despite their wonderful views, the current can be strong and most beaches do not have lifeguards. The beaches welcome picnics which can provide for a great afternoon.

Home to a historic coconut grove in Kaunakakai is a must see on this island. It was planted in the 1860’s during the reign of King Kamehameha V. Watch out for falling coconuts!

You may want to just take a peek at the island by taking a helicopter from Maui for a fly over this island full of nature. Even though this is a great option you may miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in historic, beautiful natural locations of this great island.

There are 5 regions to the island of Kauai. It is one of the oldest and northmost island in Hawaii. This island is known for tropical rainforest, wonderful cliffs and rivers with amazing waterfalls. If you want to have more of an adventurous vacation you will not want to miss the many outdoor activites Kauai has to offer. There are trails in Kokee State Park, kayaking on Wailua river and dive into the ocean for great snorkeling on Poipu Beach. The average temp year round is 69-84 degrees and the water temp is 71-81 degrees, so it is comfortable year round.

The North Shore Kauai, is rich with the beauty of all things natural. Mountains, beaches, cliffs will transport you into breathtaking views. Lumahai Beach for some will take you back to the famous film, “South Pacific” while Kee Beach is great for sunbathing. Ready for a hike or boat tour? You can venture to the Napali Coast which is a 17 mile stretch of coastline filled with cliffs, valleys and cascading waterfalls. If you want the best views take a helicopter or boat tour. The North shore is also famous for the upscale resort area of Princeville.

The East Side or the Coconut coast best suite its name with groves of coconut palms. This area too is great for hiking and a nice Kayak ride down the Wailua River. The beaches in this area are some of the best for families. There are two lava rock enclosed ocean pools that make it great for swimming and snorkeling. Opaekaa Falls is a 151 fool tall, 40 foot wide waterfall and makes for an incredible place to stop.

Lihue is where you will land at the Lihue airport when you venture to explore Kauai. It is the main commercial center of the island featuring culture and history. Kilohana, is a historic plantation estate and hosts a famous iconic luau. There is also a 100 acre sugar plantation founded in 1864. Tours are available by reservation Monday, Wednesday and Thursday and last 2 hours.

The South Shore is most known for its beaches around Poipu and Spouting Horn. For a day of history, visit Old Koloa Town just 20 mins from Lihue. You are welcomed into the town by a Tree Tunnel, a stretch of Maluhia Road lined with Eucalyptus trees. In 1835 this town opened its first sugar mill and opened the opportunity for many immigrants to make there way to Hawaii. You can check out the plantation buildings and discover great food and treats as you stroll through the town.

Finally, the West Side. Home of Kokee State Park, Waimea Canyon, and the valleys of the Napali Coast, the west side transports you to a whole different experience in Hawaii. This is where the locals don’t find too many tourist. Two great little towns to explore are Waimea and Hanapepe. Waimea Bay is where Captain James Cook first landed in 1778. The town celebrates this historic event. Seven Miles south is Hanapepe, the island’s art capital. There too are many shops and dining locations you won’t want to miss.

Explore, Immerse and Let Hawaii Happen!