Does anyone live in or visit Hawaii often?

Question

I would like some advice on which island is the best, where to stay, things to see and do. Any information or ideas will help. Thanks!

Answer 1

Hi, I was born and raised on the Big Island of Hawaii, and I fly back once a year now. So, these recommendations mainly address what to do if you choose to vacation on the Big Island (which I think is the best island, but then again, I'm biased). ;)

Hawaii National Volcanoes Park is a great place to visit. If you're lucky, Kilauea Volcano will be erupting, and you can hike to see the lava flow up close. I recommend that you wear comfortable shoes and bring water for the hike, which can get a bit tiring.

One of the best beaches on the island to visit is Hapuna Beach, which is fairly close to Kona. Beautiful white sand, crystal clear water...I wish I were there now.

Hilo Hatties is a good place to buy Hawaiian souvenirs like postcards, candles, apparel, jewelry, and food. Or, you can just visit the Hilo Wal-Mart, which also has a large selection of souvenirs for cheap.

Other than that, here are some popular things to do:

1. Go snorkeling off the Captain Cook monument just south of Kona. Or go scuba diving. Or parasailing. So many options!
2. Take a whale-watching or glass bottom boat cruise in Kona.
3. For history of native Hawaiians visit the Place of Refuge - about a half hour south of Kona.
4. Visit the Nani Mau Gardens in Hilo for some beautiful garden scenery (orchids, etc.). This is a great place to take pictures!
5. Visit Akaka Falls - very beautiful waterfalls about a half hour above Hilo.
6. Drive to the end of Hwy 19 for beautiful overlook views of Waipi'o Valley.
7. Drive to South Point - the southernmost point of the island - to see cool windmills. There is also a green sand beach near here, but it is a looooooong walk, so make sure you know what you're getting into before you set out to explore it.
8. Rent a 4WD vehicle and drive up Mauna Kea (the mountain).
9. Visit Big Island Candies for some yummy souvenirs (chocolate-dipped shortbread cookies, coffee, etc.)
10. Rent a horse to ride through Waipi'o Valley. Gorgeous!

Have lots of fun! Btw, there are a lot of nature-oriented activities on the Big Island, but if you're looking for more city-type night life, I'd suggest visiting Oahu instead.

Answer 2

Oahu is great,plenty to do steep in culture,cheap to travel around the island, perfect weather normally,excellent night life. Not sure if the International market place is still there, but a must see site.Just a short flight to Maui to see the resorts accessed by the rich and famous, maybe take a swim in an undercover pool with a bar in the water.You could check out the quaint town of Lahaina..Beware you will return like we did!!

Answer 3

I live in Hawaii, your issue is to get here. The air port is loaded with free magazines covering every aspect of Hawaii, whee to go
where to eat, the beaches are free.

Just get here, get lost in the cities, or walk the beaches until you drop!