We recently had the privilege of a number of Hawaiian operators come to Auckland with the Hawaiian Tourism board to give us more insight as to Hawaii as a destination.

Travel to Hawaii can give you many different and diverse experiences. In fact, you can return multiple times and create completely different memories. It’s so much more than the white sandy beaches, surfing and shopping that we know and love.

Image courtesy of Hawaii Tourism Authority

Tourism Boards:

Here are some links to information about the different regions. I won’t repeat their information here, but these websites will help you plan your trip in a lot of detail.

Oahu - The Heart of Hawaii
Kaua’i - Hawaii’s island of Discovery
Hawaii, the Big Island
Maui - The Magic Isle
Molokai - Hawaiian By Nature
Lanai - Hawaii’s Most Enticing Island

If you're wanting some experiences here's a few. Obviously each island offers something different and you can tailor your trip accordingly.

Still, you can’t visit Hawaii and not experience a Luau.

Germaine’s Luau This is the original traditional backyard-style family luau experience. They offer a free escorted shuttle from Waikiki to the West side of the island from where you’ll see beautiful sunsets. You’ll meet generations of family members on staff, and they’ll make sure you’re taken care of.

Diamondhead Luau is Waikiki’s only beachfront luau. You can partake in lei-making, hula/ukelele lessons and more.

You want to shop? Well, you can definitely do that in Hawaii!!

Ala Moana Centre This is Hawaii’s largest shopping centre and also is the World’s largest open-air mall, offering premium shopping and dining. It currently is home to 340+ stores and restaurants. They offer free WiFi throughout the centre. Opening hours 9:30am - 9:00pm Monday - Saturday. Note that it is closed on Sundays.

Waikele Premium Outlet (a Simon Centre) This is the only outlet shopping centre on O’ahu. Fantastic savings of 25%-65% every day. It boasts many popular designer and name brands so you really do need to visit to stock up on clothes for the next New Zealand season!

What other experiences could you have?

Polynesian Cultural Centre This is where you must visit if you want to learn the history of Polynesia. Explore 42 acres with 5 authentic island villages and exhibits. Check out their website for more information on everything you can experience here. It’s great!

Kualoa Private Nature Reserve This amazing location encompasses 2,000 hectares on O’ahu, only 38 kms from Waikiki. This is where you go to see film locations (from Elvis in ‘Paradise Hawaiian Style’ through to Jurassic World. ATV tours, Ziplines and mores. A must-visit.

Battleship Missouri Memorial This is an absolute must-see. There is so much history in this region. Combine a tour of this ship with your Pearl Harbour exploration.

Sea Life Park Hawaii See the dolphin show, spend quality time with penguins and sea lions. If you enjoy getting to know about Marine life, this is a cool destination.

If you need a bit of help getting around and seeing what you want to see, have a look at Discover Hawaii Tours or Roberts Hawaii. Check out their websites as they’ll put together an interesting package for you. Book through us for savings.

*updated April 2018

Our friends at Your RV Lifestyle have compiled a list of 100 things to do in Hawaii. Check it out here.

Transport:

Here are two vendors that came by. If you book before you travel, you’ll get less expensive rates. Let us help you with this!
Alamo Rent A Car
Arthurs Limousine

Accomodation:
Aqua-Aston Hotels and Resorts Aqua is present on four of the six islands. A great range of options for any traveller.

Courtyard Kaua’i at Coconut Beach. This property offers the amenities and convenience of a full-scale resort in an intimate beachfront setting.

Courtyard Oahu North Shore This brand new hotel offers large and spacious rooms, with either King or two Queen beds and a comfortable pull-out sofa sleeper. It’s located just steps away from the Polynesian Cultural Centre.

Royal Lahaina Resort and Royal Kona Resort. Hawaiian Hotels and Resorts can accomodate you on both Maui and the Big Island. They don’t have Resort Fees, plus Laihana has complimentary WiFi.

Hyatt Resorts & Spas in Hawaii Always reliable accomodation with large rooms and authentic hospitality.

Ka’anapali Beach Hotel is located on the world-famous Ka’anapali beach and is walking distance from shipping and championship golfing. Again, no resort fee and complimentary WiFi. This hotel is officially recognised as Hawaii’s most Hawaiian Hotel. You’ll definitely get a Hawaii experience here.

Outrigger Hotels and Resorts Stay at an Outrigger property and visit the world famous beaches, taste the regional cuisines and enjoy the hospitality of your joyful hosts. Whether you’re there with your family or on business, Outrigger has something for you.

Pacific Beach Hotel Situated on the main strip in Waikiki and currently undergoing renovations. It’ll be awesome when the work is completed. It’s within walking distance from the Honolulu Zoo and the Waikiki Aquarium.

Starwood Hotels and Resorts in Hawaii You have options on four of the islands, located in some of the most desirable settings. The resorts offer lavish luxuries and signature amenities. World-class internationally-renowned restaurants serve up culinary experiences that you’ll have to Instagram.

The Kahala Hotel and Resort is O’ahu’s premier luxury property, located just 10 minutes outside Waikiki. It has 6 dining options with choices ranging from casual to fine dining. The Kahala is a favourite with Presidents, International Royalty and Celebrities. Why not you?

Turtle Bay Resort This resort has 850 acres of lush tropical land for you to enjoy and explore. A championship golf course, surf school, 2 swimming pools and a hot tub to relax. You can ride horses, play tennis, enjoy waterspouts, off-road Segway tours, eco-kayak tours and helicopter tours. Mountain biking is new on the list of things to do.

We'd like to acknowledge and thank these companies for taking the time to visit us here in New Zealand. It's great to be able to put a face to the name - that personal touch is so important.

Give us a call to talk about Hawaii as your next destination.

^sd