Snorkeling in Maui offers some of the best opportunities for swimming with sea turtles. If you’re interested in a deeper understanding of the marine biology of Hawaii, join Ocean Ramsey’s research team in Oahu. Anini Beach on the island of Kauai provides snorkelers with access to the Rhe Honoiki reef, the largest coral reef in Hawaii. And if you want to walk away from your trip with a one-of-a-kind experience, swim at night with reef manta rays on Hawaii’s Big Island.

It doesn’t matter which island you choose. If you’re snorkeling in Hawaii, you are sure to enjoy your underwater adventure. Here are the best places for snorkeling around the Hawaiian Islands, plus the specific sea life you can expect to see below the surface.

Fringing Reef—Molokai

Get here by boat or kayak and prepare to be wowed by the longest fringing reef in Hawaii, which attracts everything from hawksbill turtles to spotted eagle rays. Plan your trip during whale-watching season (December-March) when thousands of whales show up and serenade each other (and you).

Where is it? South coast of Molokai

How to experience it? Let Snorkel Molokai take care of everything, from the boat ride and gear to special tips and instruction, if necessary.

Who is it suitable for? All levels

Turtle Town—Maui

On Maui’s southern coastline, a series of underwater lava formations, created by eruptions of submarine volcanoes, makes a cozy home for sea turtles. Just remember: look, but don’t touch; these guys are endangered. Angelfish, moray eels, and octopus are an added bonus.

Where is it? At Maluaka Beach, south of Kihei, near the Makena Beach and Golf Club.

How to experience it? A tour company like Maui Snorkeling will take visitors there for a 5-hour morning adventure. A heck of a way to start a day.

Who is it suitable for? All levels

Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park—Big Island

Hawaii’s Big Island offers numerous snorkeling spots. Kayak along the calm waters of Kealakekua Bay while keeping your eyes peeled for Hawaiian spinner dolphins; they like to put on a show. Once you reach the protected shoreline of Ka’awaloa, hop out and snorkel alongside turtles, eels, reef sharks, and rays.

Bring a picnic lunch and sit a spell near the monument of British explorer Captain James Cook; however, if you kayak on your own you are not allowed to dock on shore.

Where is it? 12-miles south of Historic Kailua Village (Kailua-Kona) in south Kona

How to experience it? Sign up for some “Morning Magic” with Kona Boys and enjoy a guided tour of this magical area at the best time of day.

Who is it suitable for? All levels

Night Manta Snorkel—Big Island

Tour operators set up waterproof spotlights on the ocean floor to attract plankton, a surefire way to bring giant Pacific manta rays galore. Even though they are closely related to sharks, have wingspans up to 20 feet, and can weigh a whopping 3,000 pounds, snorkeling with them is perfectly safe. Their underwater performance has all the theatrics of Cirque du Soleil—back flips and all.

Where is it? Fronting Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay; south of Historic Kailua Village (Kailua-Kona)

How to experience it? During lobster season, Shoreline Snorkel makes the nighttime tour even more exciting. And sometimes an octopus might even swim by.

Who is it suitable for? Intermediate

Poipu Beach Park—Kauai

Tikes will dig the shallow-water lagoon at Poipu Beach, not to mention the wildlife. Shoreside, you’ll often find lounging monk seals. Offshore, it’s common to see humpbacks during whale season. While snorkeling, look for blue parrotfish, sea cucumbers, and this tongue-twister: humuhumunukunukuapuaa, Hawaii’s state fish.

Where is it? 25 minutes west of Lihue on Kauai’s south shore

How to experience it? Visitors who feel like exploring on their own but didn’t bring the right gear can stop by Boss Frog’s for everything from masks to beach chairs.

Who is it suitable for? All levels

North Shore—Oahu

Oahu’s North Shore is one of the best places for snorkeling in Hawaii. Play marine biologist for the day by hanging out with Ocean Ramsey’s research team. Galapagos sharks, tiger sharks, sandbar sharks, hammerheads, and sometimes even whale sharks roams these parts. If you’re not a fan of the apex predator, this trip could certainly change your perspective. Humans aren’t really on the lunch list.

Where is it? Haleiwa Boat Harbor

How to experience it? Book a private excursion with Hawaii Real Nature Tours to get the most from an experienced guide in this magical location.

Who is it suitable for? All levels

Tunnels (Makua) Beach—Kauai

Weird rock formations? Check. Large coral heads? Check. This spot in Kauai will keep you entertained with its caverns, channels, and tunnels. Look for goat fish, hogfish, filefish, green sea turtles, moray eels, trumpet fish, and wrasse. A word to the wise: Avoid winter when the waves can be gnarly.

Where is it? Kauai’s north shore; off Highway 560 about a mile west of Hanalei Colony Resort; near Haena Beach Park

How to experience it? Kauai Sea Tours is one of several companies that showcases the best of the island’s snorkeling with excursions that feature multiple stops. Might as well see it all!

Who is it suitable for? Different areas are good for different levels of experience, but everyone should remember to not step on the coral.

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve—Oahu

This volcanic crater on Oahu’s east side is a marine life conservation area sheltered from ocean swells and packed full of fish. Needless to say, it’s wildly popular, so be prepared for crowds. Take a peek at crevices and caves while making friends with damsel fish, squirrel fish, porcupine fish, and trumpet fish.

Where is it? Oahu’s east side; from Waikiki take the H1 Freeway until it becomes Kalanianaole Highway, continue 10 miles. You’ll find the entrance at the top of the hill.

How to experience it? Hanauma Bay Snorkel Adventures runs tours every day except Mondays and Tuesdays, as well as most major holidays.

Who is it suitable for? All levels

Honolua Bay—Maui

Located on Maui’s northwest shore, Honolua Bay is a marine life conservation area, so your chances are good of tracking down diverse sea critters. Plus, you’ll be surrounded by rocky cliffs that help shelter the area from wind. Keep an eye out for butterflyfish, snapper, puffer fish, unicorn fish, and sea urchins. Afterward, watch the surfers to the right of the boat ramp. This spot happens to be one of the most epic surf breaks in Hawaii.

Where is it? 10 miles north of Lahaina along Hwy 30

How to experience it? Do it in style by boarding the luxury catamaran from PacWhale Eco-Adventures.

Who is it suitable for? Intermediate

Hulopoe Bay—Lanai

On the island’s south shore you’ll find this crescent-shaped bay dotted with shallow tide pools that house hermit crabs, sea stars, and small fish. Below the surface, you’re in for a treat. Spinner dolphins and sea turtles frolic here frequently. Plus, bandit angelfish, Hawaiian green sea turtles, and humpbacks (in the winter).

Where is it? Between the Four Seasons Resort Lanai and Manele Bay

How to experience it? Book Amstar’s incredible day tour from Maui to Lanai that takes visitors to Hulopoe Bay for exploring by land and sea.

Who is it suitable for? All levels

The post 10 of the Best Snorkeling Experiences in Hawaii appeared first on Islands.

Visit one of the four green-sand beaches in Hawaii, or travel to Iceland to see remnants of basalt lava pose as sand on one of the most exotic black-sand beaches. No matter your favorite color or what region of the world you travel to, there’s sure to be a colorful beach you’ll want to check out. Be careful, though: Not all of these beaches on our list are swimmer-friendly.

Read on for a list of our favorite multicolored beaches.

Black Sand: Paioa Beach—Maui, Hawaii

Located in the Waianapanapa State Park, the black “sand” is made mostly from small black rocks. Waianapanapa means “glistening fresh water” in Hawaiian, and it’s easy to see where the name came from when the black sand is contrasted against the brilliant blue ocean. The aesthetic easily makes this one of the most beautiful black-sand beaches out here.

Thanks to the scenery, this spot is a must-stop along the Road to Hana. Take as many pictures as you’d like, but save your swimsuit: With the strong surf and frequent jellyfish, opt for a more swimmer-friendly beach.

Orange Sand: San Blas Beach—Gozo, Malta

Located at the bottom of a steep hill on Gozo’s northeast coast, San Blas is a small, secluded beach featuring clear water and a marked swimming area. The soft sand—orange due to high iron oxide content—is perfect for lounging the day away in your rented beach chair. A small snack hut and restroom facilities mean you don’t have to wander far.

Pink Sand: Pink Beach—Komodo Island, Indonesia

Also known as Pantai Merah, Pink Beach is located on Komodo Island, one of more than 17,000 islands in the Republic of Indonesia. One of only seven pink-sand beaches in the world, the color is caused by the red coral mixed with white sand. It’s a popular snorkeling spot and suitable for beginners since even the shallows are teeming with marine life. The strand is also located within Komodo National Park, a sanctuary to Komodo Dragons, the world’s largest living lizard.

Green Sand: Papakolea Beach—Hawaii Island, Hawaii

Also known as Mahana Beach, you’ll find this unique, green-sand beach (one of only four in the world) on the southern tip of Hawaii’s Big Island. Nestled in a bay at the base of the Pu’u Mahana cinder cone, this remote beach requires a windy, five-mile, round-trip hike, or you can hitch a ride from a local for about $15 per person. There are no facilities, and the surf is too strong for swimming. The appeal, however, is the rare green sand, created by olivine crystals, a common silicate deposit of Big Island lava.

Red Sand: Kaihalulu Beach—Maui, Hawaii

Comprised of red and black lava cinders, this red-sand beach in Hana is the perfect spot to snap selfies. Go early to find parking, but you probably shouldn’t bring the little ones: The tricky trail to the beach is narrow and steep (plus, the hard-to-find location makes the spot popular among nudists).

Bring sturdy shoes for the hike and a snorkel mask, as the lava rock wall creates a protected cove for prime snorkeling.

Pink Sand: Horseshoe Bay Beach—Bermuda

Where did this beach, named for its curved shape, get its pink flecks? It’s from Foraminifera, a red microscopic organism with a reddish-pink shell. They grow profusely on the underside of Bermuda’s coral reefs, and their shells mix with the sand. Horseshoe is part of a collection of South Shore beaches and is one of the most popular spots with tourists and locals. Expect all the amenities you could ask for: chairs, umbrellas, snorkeling-gear and boogie-board rentals, bathrooms, and a low-key restaurant.

Black Sand: Reynisfjara Black-Sand Beach—Iceland

Just off Ring Road near the southernmost town of Vik, this black-sand beach gets its color from smooth pebbles and stones that are the remnants of basalt lava. Selfie-worthy sights include Gardar, a cliff made of hexagonal-shaped basalt columns that form a step-like pyramid. It’s created as part of columnar jointing, a type of lava-cooling process.

Basalt sea stacks, known as Reynisdrangar, are also worthy of a photo (local legend says there were two Icelandic sea trolls who tried to drag a ship to land, but daylight broke and turned them into these stone formations). Beachgoers beware: This is not a spot for swimming. The currents and waves are strong, and waves can sneak up on you. There have even been a few fatal accidents with unsuspecting people having been swept into the ocean.

Pink Sand: Harbour Island—Bahamas

This three-mile-long beach, located on the east side of Harbour Island, is the perfect spot for snorkeling and swimming, thanks to the reef that provides a large area of calm and relatively shallow water. The sand is made from bits of coral, shells, rocks, and calcium carbonate from marine invertebrates. Just like Bermuda’s Horseshoe Bay, this pink-sand beach gets its color from Foraminifera.

Red Sand: Cavendish Beach—Prince Edward Island, Canada

Part of Prince Edward Island National Park, this beach features silky red sand and all the necessary amenities—food, parking, restrooms, and lifeguards—for a perfect family beach day. The distinctive red sand gets its color from eroding sandstone cliffs on PEI’s north shore. For the active set, there are ample hiking and biking trails nearby.

The post 10 Beaches Where the Sand Color is the Main Attraction appeared first on Islands.

With such a diverse landscape, it’s no surprise that Hawaii’s Big Island delivers a variety of beaches, from white-sand postcard-perfect beaches loaded with amenities to black-sand hangouts popular among locals. Kona even has a green beach!

The experiences here vary as much as the sand color, from remote, secluded spots to beaches with lifeguards, facilities and lots of action, including paddleboard rentals. So jump in and discover the magic of the best beaches on Big Island, Hawaii.

Punalu’u Black Sand Beach

No vacation to the Big Island is complete without a visit to a black-sand beach, and Punalu’u, on the southern coast is one of the most scenic.

We love this beach not just for the sand, but for another big attraction: Green sea turtles favor this beach for sunning, as well as laying eggs in summer. As a bonus, outdoorsy types will like the fact that overnight camping is allowed with a permit.

Honl’s Beach

Said to the place where boogie boarding was born in 1971, Honl’s Beach—located in Kailua-Kona—offers surfers and other wave riders a consistent break almost year-round, with summer’s southwest swells bringing the best conditions.

Granted, you don’t need a board to play in the waves here, but do be mindful of the rocky bottom. Beyond the waves, this spot offers a wide expanse of sand for sunbathing, reading or watching simply the action.

Kahalu’u Beach Park

Don’t choose Kahalu’u Beach Park for sugar-soft sand—it comes up short—but for the wealth of watersports available at this happening location. Just yards from the beach is Kahalu’u Bay Surf & Sea, offering rentals and lessons for paddleboarding, surfing and kayaking.

While this beach’s rocky bottom isn’t easy on bare feet, it does bring much greater visibility in the water, which means paddleboarders and kayakers can watch schools of fish, as well as green turtles. Go for the fun on the water, stay for the food trucks and picnic tables.

Makalawena Beach

Maks, as the locals call it, is one of Kona’s most isolated beaches, thanks to the hike required to reach this white-sand outpost. The path is rocky, so, if possible, wear hiking boots or running shoes, not flip-flops. Here, waves lap at the shore, making for gentle, inviting swimming—perfect, as there are no lifeguards (or other facilities).

Find it by driving north of Kailua-Kona for 20 minutes on Route 19. Turn for the sign for Kekaha Kai State Park, then drive to the end of the unpaved road. From here, you’ll walk north for about 1 mile, or roughly 30 minutes.

Waialea Beach

This stretch of latte-colored sand is really two beaches: In winter, surf crashes just offshore and the sandy expanse is much smaller. Come summer, waves quiet down, and the sand returns to the beach.

We love this beach for the massive koa trees with branches extending right to the water’s edge. In other words, beachgoers need not choose between shade or sitting close to the sea.

Papakolea

One of four green-sand beaches in the world, Papakolea, found on the Big Island’s southern tip, offers unique scenery set between the lava cliffs of an eroded cinder cone. The beach owes its hue to the olivine crystals eroded from the surrounding walls. Scoop up a handful of the sand, and, yes, you can see the green in the tiny pieces of crystal.

Because it’s one of Hawaii’s most unusual scenic wonders, it is popular, despite the 2.5-mile hike to the water. The best times to visit are weekday mornings. Find the spot on Highway 11 between mile markers 69 and 70.

Kauna’oa Beach, aka Mauna Kea Beach

This beloved Big Island beach stands out for having some of the smallest waves and most pristine stretches of white sand. The water here is generally gentle, typically flat as glass, making it one of the most relaxing spots for sunbathers and those who like to take it easy in the ocean.

The easiest way to access the beach is via the Mauna Kea Hotel, which designates a limited number of parking spots to non-hotel guests. Note that at night, this hotel turns on underwater floodlights to lure in plankton, which in turn attracts mantas—sometimes up to 15 or more at a time.

Hapuna Beach State Park

Lifeguards and a small-surf break make this half-mile long Big Island beach a favorite among local and visiting families. For these reasons, expect crowds.

The park provides parking for a fee, plus food vendors, picnic areas, restrooms and freshwater showers. However, because this is a state park, alcohol is not allowed. We love that this west-facing hotspot doubles as an idyllic sunset-viewing spot. Always be sure to check the park’s many updates before planning a visit.

Maniniowali Beach, aka Kua Bay Beach

It would be easy to think you’re in the Caribbean when sunning on Maniniowali Beach—if it weren’t for the crags of lava rock at the edges of the beach and found in patches along the white sandy bottom.

This heavenly crescent of beach, part of Kekaha Kai State Park, is easy to reach, just a 20-minute drive north of Kailua-Kona. Those who arrive early enough can park just 100 yards from the beach in the lot, also home to showers and toilets. As a bonus: Sightings of green turtles are fairly common among this beach’s gin-clear water.

Isaac Kepo’okalani Hale Beach Park

This beach resulted from the August 2018 eruption on Kona, reopening in December 2018 to become the newest black-sand beach on the map. Surfers paddle outside the lagoon for the break, and swimmers looking to relax stay inside the lagoon for flatter, calmer water.

There are no vendors at this beach and no running water, but portable restrooms are available. For an added adventure, check out the four volcanically heated hot ponds at the park—but be forewarned that the government advises those with open cuts not to enter due to the risk of bacterial infections.

The post 10 Beaches Everyone Should Visit on a Trip to Hawaii’s Big Island appeared first on Islands.

Spoiler alert: There will be more movies.

Until the next project becomes a little clearer, though, fans can still enjoy and visit some of the films’ major stars. The islands of Hawaii provided the backdrops that helped the mystical homes of dinosaurs come to life. Here are nine Jurassic Park filming locations you can visit on your next trip to Hawaii. Please note that some locations are on private property, so it’s important to follow posted signs.

This spot may look familiar. Dubbed Hollywood’s “backlot of Hawaii,” Kualoa Ranch has served as the filming locations for several movies and TV shows, including Hawaii Five-0, LOST, Kong: Skull Island and Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle. One of the most notable movies filmed here is the first Jurassic Park, and several scenes from Jurassic World and Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom were filmed here as well.

While being chased by dinosaurs, Grant and the kids took cover behind a fallen log, which almost wasn’t part of the film. In 1992, production was forced to move from Kauai to Oahu for a few final scenes due to Hurricane Iniki. Had the storm not caused the location change, this famous fallen log would never have made its big screen debut. The log is a popular photo op on Kualoa Ranch’s movie tours.

In an early scene of the first Jurassic Park, a helicopter lands at the base of a beautiful waterfall. You’ll find this spot on Kauai—in fact, Manawaiopuna Falls is now commonly referred to as “Jurassic Park Falls.” Want to recreate the scene? The site is located on private property and is only accessible via helicopter, so you’ll need to take a tour with one of the helicopter companies that are permitted landing access, like Island Helicopters Kauai.

In 1997’s Lost World, Kauai’s NaPali Coastline is shown as the fictional Isla Sorna, which is located approximately 90 miles from the fictional Isla Nublar.

Kipu Kai, Kauai

One of Kauai’s beaches, Kipu Kai, is also featured in Lost World, and can be seen when the Bowmans are dining on the beach. Located on Kauai’s southeastern side near Moleuhu, the beach is difficult to access and can only be reached via boat. To catch a glimpse of the area, take a Kipu Kai Ranch tour.

Pilaa Beach, Kauai

Jurassic Park III‘s final rescue scene features Kauai’s Pilaa Beach. This difficult-to-access beach is infrequently visited and not good for swimming. But if you brave the steep, rocky access trail you’ll be rewarded with stunning views and solitude.

Jurassic Kahili Ranch, Kauai

Other scenes from Jurassic Park III were filmed at Jurassic Kahili Ranch, however the ranch is private property. No tours are available and the no trespassing rules are strictly enforced.

For 2015’s Jurassic World, the helicopter entrance scene was filmed on the north shore of Maui, near the Garden of Eden Arboretum.

Also in Jurassic World, the Nublar ferry arrives on the Makai Research Pier, which is open to the public. The Navatek Boat that doubled for the ferry in the movie has since been retired, but you can whale watch or go for a dinner cruise on one of the company’s newer vessels.

In Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom, when Owen, Claire, and Franklin wash ashore after escaping a volcanic eruption and dinosaur stampede (because it wouldn’t be a Jurassic Park movie without one!), the spot is Halona Beach. A steep, rocky hike is the price of admission, but the picturesque cove is worth it. Scenes from Pirates of the Caribbean 4: On Stranger Tides were also filmed here, though they called the spot Whitecap Bay.

As an added bonus, drive by 42-139 Old Kalanianaole Road on Oahu and see where Chris Pratt lived during filming.

The post 9 Jurassic Park Filming Locations You Can Visit appeared first on Islands.

It’s a long haul to get to Hawaii—especially from the East Coast—so planning to visit more than one island while vacationing here makes sense. More than two? That demands either a serious vacation-day commitment or a crazy schedule that leaves little time for actual enjoyment of each island.

Our solution: the perfect two-island combo for a week in Hawaii matched to your specific lifestyles and interests. From adventure and golf to romance and culinary pursuits, here is our advice on how to pull this off.

Adventure and Ecotourism: Kauai + the Island of Hawaii

Does kayaking alongside coastal cliffs with Instagram-worthy views and star-gazing from the slopes of a 13,803-foot dormant volcano topped with snow sound like the coolest tropical vacation ever? Then plan to spend three nights on Kauai and four nights on the island of Hawaii.

What to do: Kauai, the oldest of the Hawaiian islands, is famous for its lush, mountainous landscape offering eco-adventure activities, plus coastal enclaves where surfing and other water sports such as stand-up paddle boarding are popular. Hike the Kalalau Trail along the Napali Coast (be sure to secure a parking pass beforehand) or trek amid inland beauty on trails in Kokee and Waimea Canyon State Parks.

For aerial adventure, book a helicopter tour with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters or scream your way across Kauai’s longest zipline (4,000 feet) with Outfitters Kauai. Up for a serious challenge? Outfitters Kauai also offers a 15-mile ocean kayak tour along the Napali Coast.

Eco-adventure is in the DNA of the island of Hawaii, the youngest Hawaiian island, which continues to grow thanks to eruptions from Kilauea volcano. Trek across lava fields in Volcanoes National Park or ride horseback through the rolling hills of Waimea with Hawaiian cowboys and Paniolo Adventures. Better yet, the fun doesn’t end at sunset. Head up Hawaii’s tallest peak for a sunset and stars experience with Hawaii Forest & Trail. You can also slip into the darkened waters of Kona Bay for a night dive with giant manta rays via Jack’s Dive Locker.

Where to stay: Poipu is best for sunny weather and beaches, while the Coconut Coast is convenient for accessing activities on both the North and South shores. In the former, opt for the Sheraton Kauai Resort with its low-rise buildings and swimmable beach; in the latter, the Kauai Marriott Resort in Lihue features lush grounds and a heated, family-friendly pool.

On the island of Hawaii, the Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay is an affordable, centrally located base for exploration (there’s no beach, but you can see mantas from Rays on the Bay restaurant), while the Hilton Waikoloa Village on the Kohala Coast is a 62-acre resort ideal for active families.

Food and Entertainment: Oahu + Maui

If your main desire is to dine at award-winning restaurants, try Hawaiian regional cuisine, take cooking lessons, and experience local culture, Oahu and Maui offer plenty to enjoy, especially if you love seafood and fusion cuisine. Plan to spend three nights in Honolulu and four nights on Maui to taste your way through Hawaii and the entire Pacific Rim. Time your trip for mid-to-late October to enjoy events at the Hawaii Food & Wine Festival on both islands.

Must-try activities: Honolulu is home to award-winning restaurants by chefs who almost 30 years ago created Hawaiian Regional Cuisine, like Roy Yamaguchi of Roy’s, who blends Hawaiian and Japanese flavors.

Casual local favorites abound, too. Loco Moco (a hamburger and fried egg atop white rice with a veal demi-glaze) at Barefoot Beach Café, a shave ice at Waiola Shave Ice and an Ahi Poke Bowl made with shoyu sauce at Ono Seafood. Head to the North Shore to try taro and haupia, Hawaiian staples served in the combo plate the Waiahole Poi Factory. Culture-wise, learn about Hawaiian music and dance during free shows at Royal Hawaiian Center or sip a cocktail and enjoy slack-key guitar music and hula at House Without A Key at Halekulani.

On Maui, the farm-to-fork aspect of Hawaiian Regional Cuisine is on every plate at Peter Merriman’s oceanfront Merriman’s Kapalua, Beverly Gannon’s Haliimaile General Store in Makawao, and Mark Ellman’s Mala Ocean Tavern in Lahaina.

Entertainment wise, it’s hard to beat the upscale luau experience and sunset view of the Feast at Lele in Lahaina and the melodic masters of Hawaiian slack key guitar at the Slack Key Show at the Napili Kai Beach Resort. Maui is also known for several culinary festivals, including the Kapalua Food & Wine Festival in June.

Top places to stay: On Oahu, stay in Waikiki to be in the center of action. Check into Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa and you’ll enjoy both historic architecture—it’s Hawaii’s first hotel, opened in 1901—and delicious seafood at Beachhouse. On Maui, the Fairmont Kea Lani is home to award-winning Ko restaurant featuring a fusion menu of Hawaiian, Japanese, Chinese, Filipino, Portuguese, and Korean dishes, while the Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort focuses on farm-to-table dining.

Golf and Spa: Island of Hawaii + Lanai

If your idea of nirvana consists of teeing off on a gorgeous fairway in the morning and cooling down with a soothing massage and hydrotherapy soak in the afternoon, a combination of the island of Hawaii and Lanai offers complementary golf and spa experiences that capture the lava-strewn wildness of Hawaii’s biggest island and the quiet allure of its smallest island with resorts.

Must-try activities: Between them, the island of Hawaii and Lanai have 21 golf courses—19 of them on Hawaii, but Lanai features a course so spectacular it’s worth checking off your list. Most of the top courses on the island of Hawaii are affiliated with resorts, but are open to the public.

These include the Scottish links-style Waikoloa Kings’ Course; the Mauna Lani Resort South Course, home of the Senior Skins Game from 1990 to 2000; and the classic Robert Trent Jones, Sr,-designed Mauna Kea Golf Course. The Hualalai Golf Club, on the other hand, can only be played by Hualalai residents and guests of the Four Seasons Resort, as is also the case at Manele Golf Course at the Four Seasons Resort Lanai.

As for spa-going, almost any resort spa in Hawaii is well equipped to relax your cares away with native lomilomi massage or a body scrub incorporating botanicals such as coconut, papaya and ginger.

Top places to stay: If your budget allows, book both Four Seasons properties featuring a pair of Jack Nicklaus-designed courses: Four Seasons Resort Hualalai on the island of Hawaii and Four Seasons Resort Lanai, featuring the Manele Golf Course. Can’t afford such a major splurge? Spend five nights at the Westin Hapuna Beach Resort on the island of Hawaii, home to the Hapuna Course—and adjacent to the Mauna Kea course—and then hop over to Lanai for two nights to experience the Four Seasons.

Romance: Kauai + Maui

This island duo is the perfect setting for an unforgettable honeymoon, destination proposal, or milestone anniversary celebration. Begin with three nights on serene Kauai, where the pace is slow and the scenery is stunning, and then finish with four nights on Maui, an island that has it all when it comes to couples-oriented pampering.

Must-try activities: On Kauai, known as the Garden Island, romance is in the air (and the sea spray) as you enjoy a sunset catamaran dinner cruise along the breathtaking Napali Coast with Holo-Holo Charters, paddle a two-person kayak along to Secret Waterfall, walk hand-in-hand along one of the North Shore’s scenic beaches, or enjoy a couple’s lomilomi massage at your resort’s spa.

On Maui, romance comes naturally, too. Drive amid the lush volcanic slopes of Upcountry, with stops at Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm, the Surfing Goat Dairy, and the historic cowboy town of Makawao.

Once at the top of 10,023-foot dormant volcano Haleakala, enjoy a scenic hike into the crater or time your visit for sunset (you’ll be above the clouds!). Other magical experiences are driving the 620 twists and turns of the Road to Hana—stay a few nights in this sleepy enclave to truly relax—as well as cocktails on Kaanapali Beach near Black Rock as a lone diver performs his ritual plunge into the sea and a sunset dinner in Lahaina.

Top places to stay: On Kauai, romantic resorts come in different sizes. If you’re seeking a large property with multiple on-site restaurants, a great beach and a relaxing spa, check out the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort in Poipu; for something more intimate, book nearby boutique property Koʻa Kea Resort on Poʻipu Beach.

Some of our favorite Maui resorts for couples are the luxurious Four Seasons Maui at Wailea, worth the splurge for a honeymoon or anniversary; the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa with its mid-century architecture and prime Kaanapali location for sunset; and Hana-Maui Resort, for those legendary seaside bungalows.

The post Hawaii’s Best Two-Island Combos for Every Travel Style appeared first on Islands.

Visiting Hawaii is obviously a huge decision right now. There are more factors to consider than ever before, so for a lot of families and couples, it’s a laborious decision that might not seem worth the hassle. But don’t fret, because some of our favorite hotels and resorts across the four main islands are doing their best to make it easier to book a dream vacation, especially since so many people could use a safe, responsible getaway right now.

These travel deals will not only save money, but they should reduce the stress that comes with booking. The only thing left to worry about is choosing between them all.

Two Great Hilton Resorts

The biggest challenge of booking a Hawaiian vacation should be choosing the island. After all, each one offers something a little different, from Maui’s energy to Kauai’s incredible beauty. Hilton’s latest travel deals will help us narrow the choice down to two, because both Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort on the island of Oahu and Hilton Waikoloa Village on Hawaii are offering up to 40 percent off best available rates.

Blackout dates may apply and this deal ends on January 26, so act fast.

Koloa Landing Resort

The little perks often make a vacation greater, more memorable, and, best of all, stress-free, so who wouldn’t love some bonus fun while on an amazing island like Kauai? Book a seven-night stay at Koloa Landing Resort and you’ll receive free daily breakfast for two, 5,000 Marriott Bonvoy miles (those go a long way), and the seventh night free. Perhaps the best perk of all is a flexible cancellation policy with no change fees. 

Westin Maui Resort and Spa, Ka‘anapali

This is a popular resort for a lot of reasons, but location is arguably the biggest, because it doesn’t get much better than a gorgeous slice of Ka‘anapali Beach. Actually, it gets much better when you factor in big discounts, and the Westin Maui Resort and Spa is offering 20 percent off 5-night stays in the Hokupa’a Tower and 15 percent off 5-night stays in the Ocean Tower.

The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua

The concept of Malama vacations and voluntourism is hardly new, but it’s always amazing. Being able to enjoy the best that Maui has to offer while giving back to the island should make any traveler feel accomplished, and that’s why the Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, is offering the Malama Hawaii experience. 

Stay five nights or more and save 20 percent—or fifth night free—by taking part in a volunteer project and celebrate the accomplishment by lounging at the amazing pool. This offer is valid through April 30, 2022.

Prince Waikiki

At this stylish resort, it always pays to be a Preferred guest, but it’s especially the case when it comes to the Prince Waikiki New Year’s Special. For starters, Prince Preferred guests will have all resort charges waived in addition to the bevy of perks they already enjoy. Jealous much? The solution is pretty simple: just sign up for the free membership.

Additionally, guests will enjoy special rates— $229 per night for Kamaaina residents and $269 per night for overseas guests— and complimentary parking for one vehicle. Kids also dine free, which is always a huge bonus. Booking is available through January 31 for stays between now until December 22.

The post 6 Hawaii Hotel and Resort Deals that Will Make Every Traveler Say Mahalo appeared first on Islands.

Dave Walters knew a thing or three about building nice homes on Kauai. The late creator of Pahio Resorts was well regarded for the way he focused on sustainable practices and kept the island’s culture and people in his best interests. He was as generous with his charitable donations as he was obsessed with classic cars, but when it came to building his family’s property in Kilauea, he proved he was also an artist, because he turned the Garden Island’s views into masterpieces.

Billed as the largest luxury home currently available on Kauai, this $15 million palace boasts a floor area of more than 11,000-sq. ft. With three bedrooms, five full bathrooms, and three half bathrooms, this is essentially the most ideal place imaginable for multi-generational families to gather and celebrate everyone under one roof. There’s even a mother-in-law unit for the people who love seeing everyone but could use a breather every now and then.

The proof is in the amenities. For starters, there are three full kitchens, with the main kitchen having been designed by a chef, which means that families who cook together are going to also want to set post-getaway fitness goals together. Meals will be enjoyed in the dining room, which boasts incredible ocean views, and guests can retire to the living room for a cocktail or the outdoor kitchen for dessert.

Outdoor cooking might be the meal prep method of choice since this kitchen is right next to the glorious saltwater pool that also has a sand-bottom hot tub and its very own beach. (But if friends and family prefer the real thing, they’ll undoubtedly pick their jaws up off the deck when they see the poolside views of Anini Beach.)

The interior décor is an unmistakable tribute to the island and its culture, as each room, from the guest baths to the office, features regional accents and artwork commissioned from some of the Aloha State’s most talented artists.

The cherry on top? Well, that’s a tough one. Is it the stunning koi pond? Temperature-controlled wine cellar? Gym with a lap pool? Garage with space for 22 cars? It might even be the glamourous movie theater, designed as a tribute to Hollywood’s golden age. But we’ll let the next owners decide for themselves.

The post Look Inside the Largest Home for Sale on Kauai appeared first on Islands.

With a name like the Big Island, we expect everything here to be larger than life. That certainly goes with the private residential club known as Kohanaiki, which boasts some of the most incredible homes in all of Hawaii. This beloved destination has become an especially favorite getaway for the well-known names of Silicon Valley, and few neighborhoods draw the attention of high rollers quite like it. Just how nice are the homes? Well, at least one is good enough to be the stylish, luxurious clubhouse.

Now, though, one estate claims the crown for being Kohanaiki’s most expensive listing yet. Formerly owned by the founder of the award-winning DuMol Winery—a favorite of U.S. Presidents—this $22 million home, known as Ala Kohanaiki 25, is another masterpiece from architect Shay Zak and will certainly become someone’s ultimate dream retreat. Especially once any prospective buyers check out the incredible wine room.

This is the kind of home where even the towel hooks for the outdoor lava rock shower will impress guests. Every inch of this 6,755-sq. ft. palace has been designed to not only embrace local culture but blend it with modern luxury. More simply, there’s hardly a piece of furniture or décor that doesn’t seem like it was custom made for this residence.

Yet it’s the surroundings that really push things to the next level. Open the wall of doors to the common area and guests will be captivated by the views, likely not even noticing the huge wood ceilings or the large floor tiles that flow from the living space to the massive patio area.

Even more impressive, the living space opens on both sides, offering access to the backyard’s infinity pool (overlooking the tee on the 16th hole of the Rees Jones-designed golf course) as well as a serene sitting area for those friends and family members who don’t want to miss one moment of the perfect weather.

In addition to the wine room fit for a celebrated winemaker, there is also a lanai with a built-in bar that boasts a custom beer tap, if only to prove the point that everything within the walls seems unique. The kitchen appears like it was designed to turn ordinary meals into performances, offering counter space as long as the dining table, ideal for any chef who wants to show off a penchant for finger snacks while encouraging everyone to grab a small plate and mingle.

Kohanaiki offers far more than unbelievable homes and championship golf. The community pool is great for catching up with neighbors—the lots are large, so it’s not like residents see each other when getting the morning paper—and fine dining options and even a spa are just a golf cart ride away. That is, if the homeowner hasn’t already turned one of the rooms into a Zen retreat already.

The post A Glimpse Inside One of the Most Phenomenal Homes Available in Hawaii appeared first on Islands.

For many of us, the dream of permanently moving to Hawaii is, well, a dream. Heck, most travelers will be happy to visit the Aloha State’s beautiful islands just once in a lifetime, even if it’s a lot easier than they might think to call Kauai their new home or make the leap of relocating to Maui, with some of the world’s most iconic beaches now becoming regular hangouts.

But for now, if we are merely dreaming, let’s dream big with one of the most stunning properties currently for sale on the Big Island. The home located at 73-4746 Aukai Place in Kailua Kona is among the most beautiful and spacious properties in the uber-exclusive Kohanaiki private club community. In fact, this amazing house was chosen to be the interim clubhouse while the 67,000-sq. ft. facility was being built.

The price tag? $18.5 million. And it’s worth every penny.

Set on nearly an acre of land with unbelievable views of the Pacific, this home was designed by the innovative architect Shay Zak and boasts more than 8,200-sq. ft. of living space. The 6 bedrooms and 6.5 bathrooms make it an exceptional choice for anyone who loves hosting friendly neighborhood get togethers or family reunions that’ll make the adult children wish they could move back in with their parents. The interior of the home delivers a classic Hawaiian vibe with modern features that’ll make every morning feel like the first day at a luxurious resort.

Step through the massive sliding doors (that you’ll likely never want to close) and the beautiful pool and patio area serve as the setting for watching Hawaii’s magical sunsets. If you can pull yourself away from the views, you’ll find remarkable natural beauty in every last detail of the surrounding gardens and tropical landscaping. Even the outdoor showers and hot tub seem like they’re tucked away in a tropical forest.

Of course, you’ll eventually have to leave this heavenly compound if you want to enjoy the best that Kohanaiki has to offer. Mingle with neighbors in the community swimming pools or take a spa day without leaving the area. Five-star dining is always just minutes away and is certainly necessary following an afternoon on the Rees Jones-designed golf course—which offers some of the best views you’ll ever witness from the links—or exploring the surrounding water in a 39-foot Yellow Fin boat, which is available to adventurous residents.

The post Look No Further for the Ultimate Dream Home on Hawaii’s Big Island appeared first on Islands.

Maui Nō Ka ʻOi, (Maui is the best!) or so its people proudly proclaim. Many snorkelers would have to agree. Myriad sea life sighting options just a quick swim from shore, a half-sunken volcanic crater and winter snorkel background music by humpback whale are just a few reasons this island is a serious standout. 

Toting snorkel gear to any beach you visit is a good idea—as is not leaving valuables in your rental since ne’er do wells know how captivating the snorkeling can be and might take advantage of your extended absence. No matter where you choose to dip your fins, the sight of Maui’s majestic mountains and golden beaches as you return to shore makes an idyllic end to any snorkel.

Molokini Crater

One of the most popular tours on the Valley Isle is a trip out to Molokini Crater. The half-submerged crescent offers a scenic ride to the site, where boaters have a shot at seeing dolphin, whale sharks, false killer whales, pilot whales, manta-rays and humpback whales (in the winter months) en route. 

While many of these amazing creatures can be occasionally spotted during dives on the crater’s back wall, snorkelers inside Molokini are more likely to see parrotfish, passing jacks, angelfish, damsels, turtles, octopus (if you’re sharp-eyed), and an endless array of wrasse. Dipping an ear under the surface during December through April can often be rewarded by the haunting song of humpback as the crescent shape acts as an amplifier.

Five Caves/Five Graves

This public access beach along the island’s South coast is the kicking off spot to a series of underwater caves and caverns. This excellent shore dive also makes for a quality snorkel, as the many resident turtles (some massive) pop out of their cavern napping spots to breathe. Some lucky snorkelers can even spot lazy white tip reef sharks as they head in for a snooze. 

Entry can be challenging, best for those wearing booties or neoprene socks with their fins, but large schools of fish can be enjoyed along with a wide variety of unique lava tube formations.

Black Rock

Another of the island’s iconic sights is Black Rock, the large lava rock outcropping where divers plunge into the sea after lighting torches to mark the end of the day. (Stop by for a post-snorkel sunset drink at Sheraton Maui’s Cliff Dive Grill for the full cultural narration, live music and hula.) At first glance, you might think the crowd of snorkelers on the South Side of the rock outnumber the fish. 

This may be true, but the excited hoots and hollers echoing out of the dozens of snorkel tubes prove how many turtles have adjusted to the crowd and still call the rock home. A more enjoyable way to experience Black Rock is to enter on the near empty north side of the rock and make your way around the point, exiting along the popular south side shore.

Mala Pier

Once just a little used cement boat ramp alongside an abandoned half collapsed structure, Mala Pier not only offers entry to many of the West side’s dive and snorkel boats, but the large wooden pylons are crusted with hard and soft corals. This habitat has become loaded with trigger fish, goat fish, snapper, peacock bass, hawk fish, jacks, mullet, turtles, octopus and even seahorses. 

For an easy one-stop experience, stop by adjacent Dive Maui for gear and fish cards. Enter to the right of the ramp, taking care to watch for boat traffic and cross to the wooden pier.

Honolua Bay

Honolua Bay is a Marine Life Conservation District on the northwestern coast.  No fishing of any kind is allowed, and the diversity and density of life shows it. The picturesque bay is surrounded by high rocky cliffs on both sides, offering a serene and flat-water environment for great visibility and snorkel conditions. Enter (with care— rocks are slippery!) to the right of the old cement boat ramp and hug the coastline. Eventually, the smooth boulders give way to coral reef teeming with life. Butterfly fish, parrot fish, surgeon fish, tang, squirrel fish, moorish idol and boxfish are a few to spot. 

Time your snorkel to avoid mid-morning and mid-afternoon, as the snorkeling is so good the boat tours frequent the spot. If you are visiting during a north swell, expect a crowd on the beach as they watch daredevils take on the “perfect” surf break on the far-right point.

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