Most Popular Attractions in Maui and Kauai
The state of Hawaii is home to six islands each boasting its own range of attractions in the form of beaches, rain forests, cultural sights and more. Trying to cram everything in a single two week day would be absurd. Getting from one island to another can be an endless whirl of airport transfers, and can eat into your vacation time schedule. The best way to see Hawaii if you’re a first time visitor is to do some of the main attractions, and them leave in depth exploring to further visits to each island separately.
The island of Maui is the second most visited island in the state. Most of the attractions on this island are in the whaling town of Lahaina. Lahaina is one of the most famous places in Hawaii, next perhaps to Honolulu.
Lahaina is the place to head to immerse yourself in local culture. The historic part of the town is where more sightseers congregate to catch a glimpse of the whaling ship Carthaginian and the Baldwin Home. The Lahaina Mission is home to the largest Great Buddha statue outside of Japan and boasts of a 90 feet pagoda. Whaler’s Village a few miles north of Lahaina is a popular shopping center with shops and eateries, while the Whale Center of the Pacific celebrates whaling and whalers.
A trip to Hana will leave you breathless. Explore the tiny town of Hana and walk along the sands of the Waianapanapa sate park. The Han Museum cultural center is a must visit spot.
A snorkeling trip to Lahaina is a must if you’re an avid snorkeling enthusiast – trips leave Lahaina in the morning and include snorkeling and a tour of the islands before heading back to Lahaina.
Maui also has some terrific spas and great shopping experiences.
Kauai with its lush tropical foliage and fresh blooms is a honeymooner’s paradise. Known as the Garden Isle, it also offers plenty of opportunities for families with kids to make a perfect tip of it all.
Waimea Canyon is also known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, and has been created by several volcanic flows over the centuries that give it a green and brown visage that’s colorful and vibrant. The Na Pali State Coast Park is one of the most spectacular sights you’ll ever see with its 22 mile stretch of volcanic cliffs. Movie Tours offer you a chance to Visit the past where some of the biggest Hollywood blockbusters including Jurassic Park and Raiders of the Last Ark have been filmed.
Most Exotic Beaches in Hawaii
There’s no place quite like Hawaii for the complete beach experience. The Aloha state offers a selection of the most exquisite palm fringed beaches, turquoise waters lapping impossibly powdery golden sand. Its six islands boast some of the best beaches on the planet, and the state itself is the birthplace of surfing. Although visitor attractions include one of the world’s most active volcanoes and gorgeous rainforests, it’s the beaches that define the quintessential Hawaii experience.
Located in Oahu, Lanikai Beach is hands down the most stunning in a region that has more than its fair share of superb waters. The clear sparkling turquoise waters are calm all year around and offer plenty of opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, snorkeling and scuba diving. An off shore barrier reef acts as a protective barrier and provides ideal swimming conditions. Two little islands in the far distance provide a scenic backdrop and the mile ling stretch of powder soft sand is perfect for hours of sunbathing.
The half mile long crescent shaped Hapuna Beach provides clear and calm waters during summer. An ideal setting for swimming, snorkeling and bodysurfing, its stunning beauty often finds a place in lists of top beaches in the world, and it’s the most popular beach on Big Island. There are plenty of camping and picnicking spots making it a family vacation spot bar none.
Kapalua Bay Beach on Maui with its calm waters all year round is perfect for families, and those looking to do nothing more than lie around sunbathing and dip their toes just a little. This crescent shaped beach owes its protection from the current to the two lava formations that are strategically placed at either end.
Hulopoe Beach in Lanai has a well deserved reputation as a lover’s paradise tucked away as it is in a secluded part of the region. The clear waters boast some of the most brilliantly colored marine life you could find anywhere, making it perfect for snorkeling.
Papohaku Beach is the deserted island that you’ve always dreamed of. Completely empty, these 3 miles of clear waters offer plenty of snorkeling and surfing and are ideal for picnicking or just walking along drinking in the gorgeous sunset.
With a breathtaking backdrop of mountains and waterfalls, Hanalei Bay Beach in Kauai has a 300 foot pier for fishing and swimming, and is the destination to head to for serious surfers.
Whatever the type of beach you’re looking for, Hawaii won’t disappoint
Dining in Hawaii Made Easy
A trip to Hawaii would be incomplete without a sample of the state’s unique ethnic cuisine and produce. You’ll spot lunch wagons bearing the names laulau, malassadas, and kalua pig. The local fare is not jut delicious and exotic, but also inexpensive.
One sign you will see often and around is “plate lunch. A plate lunch is nothing but a hot dish of chicken or fish accompanied by some rice, macaroni salad and lots of gravy. Most restaurants will offer this delicious plateful, but certain spots in Oahu and are famed for their bento plate lunches.
Malassadas are fried pastries that are very similar to donuts. Oahu’s Chinatown offers manapua a steamed bun filled with meat and loco moco that consists mainly of hamburger patties and rice.
Tropical Fruit
Tropical regions are renowned for the sheer variety and abundance of delicious and uniquely flavored fruit that’s grown here. Hawaii boasts of a vast selection of tropical fruit too. Several varieties of mangoes can be found here including the Hayden mangoes and white piries. While Hayden mangoes are the most popular varieties, white piries boast of a fibreless flesh with a unique flavor. Mangosteen with its purple colored skin ad juicy flesh is another popular Hawaiian fruit.
Tropical regions boasts of variety of papayas and Hawaii is not far behind. The dark orange and juicy Kahuku papayas can be found on roadside fruit stalls and fruit markets.
The famed Hawaiian pineapples are grown for the most part on Big island and Kauai, and are free from acids. This makes them especially succulent and super sweet. Lychees and Ka’u oranges are other must try Hawaiian fruits.
Ethnic noodle stands abound and you’ll find any number of inexpensive and convenient stalls where you can sample a large variety of noodle delicacies – ramen, pasta and chow mein among others. Shave ice is an iced confection that’s home grown Hawaii, and is terrific over ice-cream.
Hawaii is also famous for its teas and there are dozens of varieties to appeal to every palate. Mamaki tea is especially favored by the locals who use it as a tonic.
And of course, there’s always Pacific Rim Cuisine an amalgamation of European cooking techniques with Asian ingredients.
Hawaii offers avirtual smorgasbord of local delicacies for the consummate world travelr. Sampling at alst afew itens from the above is art fo the Hwaiian experience. Bon Appetit!
Traveling to Hawaii – Tips & Suggestions
The main airport in Hawaii Honolulu International Airport is serviced by all major international and domestic carriers. Once here, you can take another flight to the island of your choice. Some direct flights to Maui and Kauai are also available. A direct flight will save you the bother of having to disembark at Honolulu and get to your island.
Summer which falls between April and November is the best time to visit, although you’ll find the touristy hordes a little too much. That being said, Hawaii is a great destination all year round, and many of the beaches offer round the year clear waters and calm surf.
Make no mistake – Hawaii can be an expensive place to vacation. The air fare, hotels and accommodation can all eat in to your wallet. Get around this by booking a package tour. Package tours to the Aloha state are a dime a dozen and include air fare, accommodations, car rentals and even some activities at With these all inclusive packages, you’re more likely to be able to stick to your stipulated holiday budget. Before you book a package, ask about the various services and amenities that are available, and make sure to check into hidden costs and fees if any.
Car rentals are the best way to get around in Hawaii which has some of the lowest car rentals in the world. You‘ll have to be above 25 years of age and have a valid driver’s license to be eligible for a rental.
The booming vacation business and the extravagant natural beauty of the islands have made them, especially Oahu a dream wedding destination. More than 70 companies offer wedding planning services. After the nuptials, you don’t have to head elsewhere for your honeymoon – you’re already in a honeymooner’s paradise.
Accommodations in Hawaii are extensive, to say the least. You’ll find everything here from large sprawling all inclusive resorts to boutique hotels and budget accommodations, hostels and rental apartments. Apartments are the cheapest way to pitch tent in Hawaii, especially if you’re traveling with family. Bed and breakfasts are also an inexpensive option that can range from a bedroom in a house with complimentary breakfast on the house to private rentals with complete privacy. Vacation rentals offer you complete privacy (you’ll be the only guest on the property) and premises come equipped with a fully stocked kitchenette, and a number of other amenities on offer, although room service will be sorely lacking.
Attractions on the Islands of Fiji
There is no smile like the wide, warm Fiji Islander’s as he welcomes you to their island paradise. Fringed with coral, the many islands (332 in all) are a place where travelers come to unwind, and refresh their weary body and spirit. But Fiji is far more than just sun, surf and sand; there is a proud history and an exotic culture to explore.
For History Buffs
For those content to sift through memories of the past, hoping for clues to what will happen in the future, Fiji is the perfect place to vacation. Hike the hills to explore war fortifications that were built by the Europeans or visit a town that will take you back to colonial times, where nothing much has changed in the past century or so.
The southern islands offer visitors a chance to gawk at the rock paintings of human figures and handprints of the ancients. There are caves to explore where you can imagine our early ancestors toiling at much of the same tasks we must face today in the modern world. If you are looking for insight into the life of Fiji Islanders of the past, you can arrange for tours where you can get lost in the long ago.
Museums
Check out the museum where you will find a host of trinkets that help to depict the Fijian’s past. One such fine example is the museum in Suva found in Viti Levu. Here, you can feast your eyes on fine artifacts such as native canoes, an important part of the historical tapestry that makes Fiji so unique.
The Undersea World
Fiji is a virtual heaven on earth for those who love scuba diving. Catch a glimpse of some spellbinding varieties of soft and colorful corals. With more than twelve hundred species of fish to see as well as a variety of dolphins and whales, a diving experience is a must-do activity for anyone visiting the Fiji Islands. Enjoy a variety of scuba experiences on dive ships and specialty dive resorts that cater to the underwater explorer.
The National Parks
Nature lovers won’t be disappointed. There are six areas that have been designated as areas of outstanding beauty where you can hike through the rainforest or walk along the dunes. If you are really into the natural experience, you will find many opportunities to camp overnight on a variety of tours.
Hotel Accommodations in Fiji
The kind of accommodation you choose could make or mar your holiday. While researching a particular area in Fiji to set camp in, look into accommodations first before you consider entertainment and recreation possibilities. When in the Fiji Islands, you will have no problem finding the accommodations that will ideally suit your needs and your budget.
The Resort Experience
For those looking for their every whim to be fulfilled, you will find any number of luxurious resorts that will cater to your every desire. There are many upscale chain brand hotels for those who wish to holiday in the lap of luxury.
The beach resorts on many of the islands of Fiji have a more laid back feel to them. These types of resorts are perfect for those vacationing with the kids. The resorts have lagoons and tide pools, and perfectly manicured beach sand for your comfort and enjoyment. There is a varied range of water sports like parasailing, surfing, snorkeling and a host of other aquatic activities.
Weddings on Fiji
To be married on a remote island in the South Pacific can be many a couple’s dream. If you are planning to get hitched or honeymoon in the romantic Fiji Islands, you will find a host of accommodation possibilities. Many of Fiji’s hotels include a complete wedding package that will take care of many of the details that go along with planning a destination wedding.
Extended Stays
For a longer stay in Fiji, find accommodations that will not only fit your requirements, but also won’t cause a strain in your budget. Consider renting an apartment or a private home that can really have you feeling like a native of these beautiful islands. You will enjoy the convenience of a full kitchen so you don’t have to worry about affording meals out, as well as a bedroom and a bath for everyone in your party. Many of the homes available for rent are located on the beach which will give your holiday just the right amount of authenticity. All these conveniences come at very affordable rates.
No matter what your budget or tastes, the Fiji Islands have the perfect accommodation for every traveler. Whether you are a backpacker on a shoestring budget, or a family looking for a luxurious, tropical get away, you are sure to find accommodations for you when you visit the islands of Fiji.
Dining and Entertainment in Fiji
You can’t really say you’ve visited a place until you’ve tasted the local delicacies and sipped their wines and brews. A large part of vacationing is immersing yourself in the culture, traditions and most especially, the food of the region. Fiji is renowned for the outdoor dining scene that is an integral part of Fiji entertainment. Most of the indigenous dishes here feature fresh seafood, so if you enjoy bounty fresh from the sea, you will be in your element. This paradise also offers other types of cuisine to suit every visitor’s palette.
You will find a selection of fine delicacies on the menus offered at the grand five star resorts. Many of these luxury hotels come with 4 and 5 star rated chefs who are masters of what they do. Indian food is a popular dining choice in Fiji, and the restaurants that serve food from the subcontinent are referred to as Asiyana. You will also find a tempting mix of Japanese, Chinese, Korean and continental cuisine restaurants. Finding international cuisine restaurants in Fiji is simple, and there is a wide selection of eateries for you to choose from.
Shopping
If you are an avid shopper, there is no place for immersing yourself in your favorite pastime like Fiji. The country is renowned for her unique artifacts and handcrafted goods. The gorgeous Tapa and masi fabrics as well as the rich woven tapestries will tempt you to pick some souvenirs to take home with you.
Don’t just limit yourself to the busy shopping areas; take some time to explore the side streets where you will be rewarded with some excellent bargains on indigenous carvings and the coveted stunning, black pearl. You can’t leave Fiji without purchasing one of these beautiful gems – they are an absolute staple of every bag heading out of customs.
Dancing the Night Away
Fiji is home to a number of exciting nightclubs where tourists and locals alike take a welcome respite from the sea and sun. If you like your music live and your rhythms hot, enjoy a variety of options from which to choose. There are pubs, bars and nightclubs chock full of entertainment from around the world. If you want to catch a popular European revue, no problem. If local music performances are your thing, there’s plenty of that too. If your idea of a great night out means sitting in a quiet bar with piano music gently playing in the background, there are plenty of options to explore.
The Amazing Beaches of Fiji
Fiji boasts some of the finest beaches that can be found in the South Pacific. The Fiji Islands have ten separate regions, and each of those regions have many stunning beaches making Fiji a sun worshipper’s paradise.
The Beaches of Viti Levu
The region of Viti Levu is not known for its beaches. The coast is mostly mangrove forests, and whatever beach you can find, is typically a muddy affair. There is one exception, however and it is the Coral Coast which has the best beaches that can be found on Viti Levu. Many of the resorts have ensured that guests will delight in the full tropical experience by creating snorkeling lagoons with soft, white sand along a beach dotted with palm trees.
Beaches of Mamanuca
Considered the playground of the Fiji Islands, Mamanuca offers plenty of beaches where you can enjoy snorkeling, parasailing, beachcombing, and swimming. Stroll along the beach and stop at your leisure to sip a cocktail in one of the sunset bars, and take your pick of a variety of dining choices.
Yasawa Beaches
White sandy beaches abound wherever you roam among the Yasawa group of beaches. Swim and snorkel in complete privacy in a secluded lagoon, with just the sun and the sea as your companions. Spend the day on a beach that gives the most impressive view of the steep volcanic peaks above. There are a few luxurious resorts dotted along these beaches, so you can be sure that the beach sands are clean and well maintained.
The Southern Islands
The Southern Island has a few wide, sweeping beaches. Most of the coastline of this region is inaccessible and rugged. Take the time to follow trails made by the locals, and they may take you to a secluded beach when you emerge from the rainforest.
The Beaches of the Lau Group
The secluded Lau group of beaches is a mass of small islands that are scattered upon a vast sea, where you can cast anchor.
No matter where you go in Fiji, you will be surrounded by the beautiful turquoise waters that adorn every beach. When it comes to Fiji’s beaches, the choice is staggering. What you may think is an excellent beach, may be scoffed at by the locals and the tourists who have discovered the many coves and soft, white sand beaches that are just waiting for you to come and explore.
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