Aloha! Today, we'll share five ways for you and your family and friends to experience each glorious and unique Hawaiian island!
5 Essential Big Island Activities
The Island of Hawaii, the biggest of eight main islands, is home to more than ten different climate zones. In one hour, you can go from a sandy beachfront on the blue Pacific to a snowy mountaintop!
Visit the Kona area of the island to soak up the sun and enjoy some of the local coffee and other products. Trek to Puna and Kau to see just how dramatic volcanic activity can be. Stay up on the Kohala Coast, north of Kailua-Kona, and enjoy some of the best villa rental experiences offered anywhere in Hawaii. Wherever you are on this island, you will be treated to unforgettable views and experiences.
Here are five special ways that you can experience this truly unique place that we call The Big Island!
1. Visit a Black Sand Beach
The Big Island of Hawai‘i is a land of extraordinary contrasts, where snow blankets mountain peaks during winter, waterfalls cascade through lush valleys, and black-sand beaches tell stories of fiery volcanic origins. This island's dynamic volcanic activity is its hallmark, shaping both its landscape and allure.
The black-sand beaches, iconic to Hawai‘i, owe their dramatic appearance to cooled lava fragments finely ground over time by the relentless ocean. These natural marvels are not just visually stunning but also a vivid reminder of the island's geological evolution.
One of the most famous black-sand beaches is Punalu’u Black Sand Beach. Read our Big Island Black Sand Beaches - Where to Find Them guide, and learn about Pualu'u and other ways to explore the Big Island's uniqely beautiful landscape.
2. Visit Waimea in Cowboy Country
Waimea is a charming Hawaiian country town steeped in history and brimming with a uniquely Hawaiian-style Americana. Waimea, known for its ties to ranching, is home to the iconic Parker Ranch. The ranch traces its origins to the late 1700s when a few cattle were brought to the islands. Over time, these cattle thrived, and John Palmer Parker, an enterprising man who arrived during the reign of King Kamehameha I, founded what would grow into one of the largest ranches in the United States.
Legend has it that King Kamehameha III invited Spanish-Mexican vaqueros from California to teach Hawaiians the art of cattle herding. This exchange birthed the Paniolo (Hawaiian cowboys), whose influence remains deeply embedded in Big Island culture.
Today, Waimea, located upcountry from Mauna Kea on the Kohala Coast, has an entirely different vibe from the coastal areas due to its 2,600 ft. elevation. The starkly beautiful black lava rock landscape coast gives way to verdant hills and a town with a distinctly country feel. You might see folks in spurs waiting in line at Starbucks and Vitcorian-style farmhouses that look plucked out of a Norman Rockwell painting.
Waimea is the perfect stop on the way to the historic Waipio Valley, on the lush and tropical northern shore of the Big Island. Read all about what to do in Waimea, a uniquely beautiful Big Island town.
3. Take a Manta Ray Night Dive
This is a very special experience that's not to be missed if you're a diver. Big Island Divers will take you on a magical journey under the waters of the Pacific Ocean, where you'll come face to face with enormous manta rays in the wild.
These creatures might be a little intimidating at first, but don't be afraid. Rays are gentle giants that soar through the water. The longer you are with them in the water, the more comfortable you become.
The dives begin in the late evening, meaning you will spend your evening in a completely different world beneath the waves. If you are a certified scuba diver, you can enjoy an open-water dive with these majestic animals. Otherwise, you can spend your time snorkeling with the manta rays. This is a unique, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
4. Soar Over an Active Volcano
The Big Island is home to Kilauea, one of the world's most beautiful and active volcanoes. The eruptions are typically gentile and ongoing, and the lava flows pose no danger, as long as you keep a safe distance! While you can hike to see the stirring beauty of this natural phenomenon, perhaps the best way to see Kilauea is from the air.
We always advise guests to take helicopter tours that fly you over the glowing volcano and more of the Big Island's unparalleled scenery. Lately, the volcano has been very active. Flying over it will show Hawaii's volcano goddess, Pele at her best! Read about our team's Big Island helicopter tour experience and see some of the incredible photos that snapped while soaring over volcanos and the gorgeous Big Island coastline.
5. Take a Coffee Tour
If you love coffee, you are going to love what the Big Island has in store for you! The island of Hawaii is home to hundreds of coffee farms. Kona coffee lovers can surround themselves with the fragrant smell of coffee on a tour of a coffee plantation.
You can learn about the entire process of cultivating coffee, roasting the beans to perfection, and brewing the perfect cup of coffee. You can purchase Kona coffee, one of the most beloved gourmet coffees, straight from the source. There is nothing quite like a freshly brewed cup of delicious Kona coffee when back home to remind you of your stay on the Big Island.
Combine your adventures in the island's coffee country with a visit to Vanilla Farm. Hawaii Vanilla Company has cultivated vanilla and made unique products since the 1990s. Trust us, the flavor is incredible. Your taste buds will be forever thankful!
5 Essential Maui Activities
It's our pleasure to share the beauty and wonder of the Hawaiian Islands with guests renting a vacation home with us in Hawaii. Maui is our home island, so we know it very well. Maui is Hawaii's second largest island – and many people's favorite Hawaiian island. Surrounded by the blue waters of the Pacific Ocean, Maui is a big draw for its beaches, marine wildlife, magestic mountain scenery, and diverse lodging options.
Although it was tough to narrow down, we have put together 5 essential activities for first-timers and returning guests alike; they are popular for a reason!
1. Learn About Hawaiian Culture
Hawaii has a rich and storied culture, and there are plenty of ways to experience them on Maui, from outrigger canoeing and lei-making to hula dancing. You can easily experience both of these cultural pastimes during your time on Maui.
Outrigger Canoeing
When you learn how to paddle your canoe you will discover the meaning of “lokahi.” This Hawaiian word means harmony and balance. As you paddle with the other members of your group, you will work together to make your canoe cut smoothly through the water; and you will also learn about the history of the canoe and its importance in Hawaiian culture.
In Hawaii, canoeing is both a joyful pastime and a heated competition. Canoe races are still very prevalent throughout Hawaii. During the official race season, you can watch paddlers compete at different beaches around the island. Every year, Hawaii holds a state finals event on a different island.
Hula Dancing
Hula is a Polynesian dance practiced by the people who first settled on the Hawaiian Islands. You can see Hawaiians perform this dance live and you can even learn a few moves yourself! Lessons are offered to visitors and can even be arranged right at your Maui vacation home. Learning about Hula is fun, educational and pretty much guarantees some great photos and memories.
You might be surprised how challenging it is to look as graceful as Hawaii’s skilled dancers look when they’re on stage at a local venue. In between learning about the history of hula and the intricacies of performing the dance, you can take part in making your own flower leis!
2. Get Out on the Ocean
No trip to Maui would be complete without time spent on the ocean. Whether on a mono-hull sailboat (our favorite) or a catamaran, being out on the Pacific Ocean is incredible. You can also get an up-close look at the wildlife that thrives just beneath the surface.
Snorkeling
Try snorkeling to catch a glimpse of a giant sea turtle or Hawaii's state fish, the humuhumunukunukuapua'a - otherwise known as the reef triggerfish. You might even see whales swimming offshore during humpback whale season! Read our article on good Maui snorkeling spots.
Marvel at Humpback Whales
Also, every year humpback whales winter over in Hawaii and put on a natural spectical that is not to be missed! Read our Maui whale watching guide for expert tips.
Surfing Safaris
If you love water sports and want to try your hand at Hawaii's famous sport, consider going on a surf safari. Professional surfers take you to less crowded beaches where you spend four hours learning to surf, honing your skills, or ripping it up with the locals. They provide the surfboards, chairs, snacks, and refreshments. All you have to do is show up! Check out our friends at Waves Hawaii Surf School.
3. Support Lahaina Businesses
The world was shocked to see the devastation left by a wildfire that impacted Lahaina in August 2023. More than 14 months after the wildfire, the town is showing signs of healing. Honoapiilani Highway (Route 30) is now open, the Lahaina Art Society's weekend art fairs are back on, and perhaps the most hopeful sign of commercial rebirth is the little "restaurant row" thriving behind the Lahaina Cannery Mall.
When you visit Maui, West Maui in particular, make an effort to grab a meal at one of Lahaina's favorite restaurants, several of which offer oceanside dining, excellent and diverse menus, and fun dinner scenes. You'll enjoy the cuisine and be supporting Lahaina's residents and rebirth!
Read all about what it's like to visit West Maui and the restaurant scene in our November 2024 article What's the Vibe on Maui?
4. Hike Hana’s Waterfalls
Hana is Maui's very own coastal rainforest. Located more than 50 miles from the island's airport, this corner of paradise is remote and totally worth the trip. Just a short hike will take you to some of the area's most beautiful waterfalls.
You can also let a guide take you through the rainforest for a more immersive experience. You can even swim in beautiful freshwater pools created by the tumbling waterfalls.
5. Visit the Summit of Haleakala
Haleakala Crater – the highest point on the island – is located in the Upcountry region of Maui. From this lofty vantage point, you can enjoy unparalleled views of the island.
If you wake up early enough, you can see an amazing sunrise.
Tip – if you are traveling from the US Mainland or Canada, take advantage of your jetlag and enjoy this and other early-morning activities while still adjusting to Hawaiian time.
The name of this US national park actually means “house of the sun.” You can hike, bike, or ride on horseback to the top. In summer, it’s nice to get out of the heat and head up to the higher elevations. There are several different eco-climates that you will pass through on this dormant volcano so the weather, flora, and fauna will change as you ascend to the summit.
Due to its popularity and limited parking, reservations are required for sunrise viewing from the summit area. Go to the official Haleakalā National Park website (www.recreation.gov) to make your reservation.
These are just five activities that we enjoy. Truly, there are many others, and once I speak with you and learn more about your group, I can create the perfect itinerary for your Hawaiian vacation!
5 Essential Oahu Activities
Oahu, aptly named the gathering place, is often our first introduction to the Hawaiian Islands. In fact, Oahu holds a unique position as the most populous island and the center of government, from the time of the Kingdom of Hawaii until today.
From Waikiki, visitors will branch out to discover the other islands and their unique personalities. Sometimes you’ll hear people say that they liked other islands because they were less “touristy.” Well, the secret is that Oahu has some of the most gorgeous scenery and beaches to be experienced anywhere in the Hawaiian Islands.
Whatever it is you are looking for, whether a first-time visitor or a repeat visitor, Oahu offers many historically significant sites and easily accessible, quintessentially Hawaiian activities for visitors, young and old.
Here are 5 activities that everyone should consider doing at least once on Oahu!
1. Surf Waikiki
This may sound obvious, but you have to do this at least once. Visit the spot where it all began and maybe even connect with the original lineage of the Hawaiian Beach boys.
Waikiki Beach is a two-mile-long beach with eight different sections. This famous beach is not only gorgeous but also has some of the best beginner-level surfing on the island. Anyone hanging out on Waikiki can take a lesson with local surfers who will help them learn to glide across its famous rollers.
Waikiki Beach is also the perfect place to snorkel (out past all the bathers), paddle boat, or boogie board. Its waves are generally blue and playful, allowing for family fun and endless hours of enjoyment.
When you have had your fill of the sun, you can find somewhere to eat or shop in the city; Waikiki Beach offers upscale or casual dining and shopping.
Tip: Sunsets on Waikiki can be epic. Make sure you spend at least one afternoon enjoying the sunset, either from the beach, the water or one of the bars that ring the sand!
2. Take a Waimea Valley Tour
Arrange a private tour of the Waimea Valley on the world-famous North Shore of Oahu. This part of the island is known for its stunning flora, fauna, and - during winter - waves.
Waimea Valley is home to the Waimea Botanical Gardens, dozens of ancient archeological sites, and many breathtaking waterfalls. While you hike through the Hawaiian jungle, watch for colorful flashes of native birds. Waimea Valley also has many years of history. Ask your guide about the valley’s importance to the Hawaiian people.
Tip: The world-famous Waimea Bay is located across the street from Waimea Valley. This bay will roar to life with giant surf a few times a year during the winter months. However, during the summer Waimea is a great place for family beach days. Don’t miss the kids jumping off the rock at the end of the bay!
3. Honolulu Day Tour: Downtown Honolulu and Pearl Harbor
How much do you know about Hawaii? Most visitors are aware of Pearl Harbor and what occurred there, but did you know that Hawaii used to have a monarchy? Did you know that we are the only state with two official languages? A Honolulu city tour will give you a closer look at our fascinating history and culture.
Only in Honolulu can you visit a true royal palace while still in the United States. Iolani Palace was built in the 1800s for the Hawaiian kings and queens, and today is open to visitors. The palace has been lovingly restored, and on your tour, you will see original furnishings, learn about the history of the Hawaiian people, and get to know a few of the fascinating Hawaiian monarchs who once called the palace home. Historic Chinatown is nearby, and there is a museum that looks at the impact of missionaries on Hawaii.
Tip: Because Honolulu is a great melting pot, you can also add a short culinary tour of downtown and its many markets, experiencing the different tastes, sounds, and scents from the many cultures who have come to this island over the years and made a home here.
After spending your morning at the palace and eating lunch downtown, make your way over to Pearl Harbor to visit the stirring Arizona Memorial. The National Parks Department has done a wonderful job curating this experience and placing the events that unfolded there in 1941 in a historical context.
NB: those wanting to experience a somber military landmark, other than Pearl Harbor, can visit the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific. Also known as Punchbowl Cemetery, this memorial honors the people who served in the Armed Forces.
Read all about how to tour Honolulu with our first-hand guide.
4. Get Adventurous at Kualoa Valley Private Ranch
No trip to Oahu would be complete without some sort of outdoor adventure. Kualoa Ranch has 4,000 acres that sprawl across an unbelievably scenic nature reserve. Explore the ranch on horseback or speed things up with an ATV ride. It is so beautiful in this valley, you won't want to miss your chance to experience this beauty first-hand.
As you ride through Kualoa Ranch, you might feel a growing sense of familiarity. You will be amazed at how often this ranch has been used as the setting for movies and TV shows. This Hawaiian spot has served as the lush backdrop for the terrifying dinosaurs of "Jurassic World" and "Jurassic Park." King Kong also crashed through Kualoa in "Kong: Skull Island." You can even take a tour of all the specific movie sites on the ranch.
If you want a little bit more of an adrenaline rush, ascend into the canopy to take the Jurassic Valley zip line tour. From 200 feet up in the air, you can watch the green of the ranch rush by.
Tip: For a real Polynesian adventure, check out Goat Island, located just offshore. This island is part bird sanctuary and can only be reached during low tide. Be careful – tides, currents, and weather can catch you off guard. It's not a good idea for young children as you must traverse the water.
5. Visit Oahu's North Shore
The North Shore of Oahu is home to the famous Seven Mile Miracle, a seven-mile stretch of beaches that compose the famous breaks of surfing lore: Banzai Pipeline, Waimea Bay, and Sunset Beach.
The big surf season corresponds to the winter season in the North Hemisphere. The mountainous waves that hit Hawaii's northern shores are generated thousands of miles away in the Aleutian Islands in the North Pacific (the same thing happens along the southern shores during the summer months, as winter storms rage in the South Pacific).
Interestingly, the inverse is true in the summer, with the north shores being generally calm and great for swimming.
Tip: When the surf is big, expect crowds and traffic along the north shore, which has a small two-lane road called Kamehameha Highway that offers access to the beaches. Parking can be a challenge, and be careful, as the County is more than happy to earn some cash off illegal parking. Visitor status does not give you a pass.
Read more about a perfect day on Oahu.
Oahu is a historic and beautiful island that is waiting to be explored and rediscovered. If you rent an Exotic Estates villa, we would happily help you plan a memorable and surprising visit to Oahu!
5 Essential Kauai Activities
Aloha! We're excited to share some of my favorite things to do on the Garden Isle, Kauai - a real-world Bali Hai.
It is Kauai’s verdant landscape that earns it the “Garden Island” nickname. Kauai is home to secluded, idyllic beaches, groves of coconut palms, lush valleys, and more.
The oldest of the main Hawaiian Islands, Kauai has diverse landscapes: you can climb mountains, trek through rainforests, go on incredible kayak paddles, visit a miniature Grand Canyon, and hike through deserts all on this one island! While there is no shortage of things to do on Kauai, we definitely have a few favorites. Here are five activities that we ecommend any visitor to Kauai try to fit into their trip – most are popular and well-known, but everyone should do them at least once!
1. Sunset Sail or Kayak Na Pali Coast
Na Pali Coast State Park is a must-visit beauty spot on Kauai. The coastal park stretches for about 16 miles along the dramatic northwestern edge of the island. You can hike the mountainous terrain, but I prefer the view from the waters of the Pacific Ocean.
Don't care for heights and cliffs, then skip the hike in favor of a sailing or kayaking expedition. There is a guided kayak trip you can do during the day, or if you prefer to work less, a sunset sail is a great option! The sunset views are breathtaking. This is a great way to see the coast if you would rather not walk the cliffs that hikers encounter.
Your Hanalei Bay Vacation Villas and Princeville Vacation Rentals are both relatively close to the Na Pali Coast, however, there are departure points on the southern part of the island, new Poipu, which offer regularly scheduled tours of the coast. Of course, the coast can also be toured by air with charters and tours from the airport in Lihue.
2. Cruise on a Wailua River Boat to Fern Grotto
This is another very popular beauty spot, for a very good reason – it’s one of the most beautiful sights to see! Fern Grotto is a cave formed from lava. The cave has become overgrown with gorgeous, green ferns that hang down from the rock face above the opening.
An open-air boat will take you down the winding Wailua River, the only navigable river in Hawaii, to this unique grotto.
On your journey to the Fern Grotto landing, you will hear traditional Hawaiian stories and songs. You will even have a chance to try out some hula dancing. Once you arrive at the landing, a short walk through the rainforest will bring you to the famed Fern Grotto.
A classic destination that still delivers and should be experienced at least once.
3. Take a Helicopter Ride Over Waimea Canyon
Mark Twain called Waimea Canyon the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” Once you see it by helicopter, the nickname will make perfect sense! Waimea Canyon is more than 3,000 feet deep and about 10 miles long. This dramatic landform features a stunning color palette of browns, greens, and reds.
You can go to the viewing site on a ridge in the park or even hike through the canyon, but the best way to see as much of Waimea Canyon as possible - and Kauai's rugged interior and coastlines - is from the air.
The helicopter flight will take you across the island to the canyon where you will be privy to the best views of this natural wonder. Keep an eye out for waterfalls as you fly overhead. If you are lucky, you will glimpse a rainbow stretching over the canyon.
4. Snorkel the Waters Around Ni’ihau
The island of Ni’ihau is maintained by Hawaiians. The island, often called the “Forbidden Isle,” has limited encounters with the outside world. While you are not allowed to set foot on Ni'ihau, you will get close to the little Hawaiian Island and learn about its history and culture.
The waters around the island are alive with colorful tropical fish and wildlife. Swim through the crystal clear waters for an up-close look at the island’s beautiful marine life. The island is also famous for the gorgeous Ni’ihau shells. Ni’ihau shells were made into necklaces and worn by Ali’i, or nobles of ancient Hawaii.
5. Visit the Pier at Hanalei Bay
Hanalei Bay is often photographed and seen in movies like The Descendants. It's an extraordinary and idyllic place – and Exotic Estates has some amazing Hanalei Bay Vacation Rentals.
The river meets the ocean in this beautiful Bay. Surrounded by dramatic mountains and the azure waters of the Pacific Ocean, the scenic pier invites all to jump right in!
Stroll along the beach or playing the water. Hanalei Bay is also an ideal spot for swimming, surfing, and boogie boarding. You can also kayak along the Hanalei River. The pier is a scenic lookout that offers visitors an ideal spot for sunset views and calm reflection – sunrise here is also amazing!
Even if you’re not staying in Hanalei, pack a picnic and spend the entire day enjoying this historic spot on Kauai.
Mahalo and feel free to reach out for expert help planning your special Hawaii vacation experience!
