Hawaii Travel and Vacation Rental Info

What You Need to Know for Planning a Trip to Hawaii

Everyone dreams of a vacation to the exotic islands of Hawaii. Here you will find sugary beaches, the freshest seafood, and plenty of water sports to choose from. One thing some travelers don’t realize is that each of the Hawaiian islands has its own personality. Narrowing down your options for vacation in Hawaii becomes easier once you’ve determined whether you’re planning an outdoor adventure, romantic getaway, or a family trip. One thing is for sure: waking up in a vacation rental overlooking the Pacific Ocean, you won’t want to return back home.

When to Visit

Hawaii offers warm weather perfect for a beach getaway at any time of year. Despite this fact, there are certain factors that might influence when you decide to book your Hawaiian adventure. Weather in Hawaii is broken down into two seasons: winter and summer. Winter lasts from October through April and is known for cooler temperatures in the evenings.

One significant reason people travel to Hawaii during the winter is for the surfing. This time of year corresponds with the best waves. Whether you surf yourself or simply want to watch the big surf competitions on the north shore of Oahu, winter is the best time to travel for surfing. One negative aspect about traveling during the winter is that these months are more prone to rain, although just short rain showers.

Many travelers would say that summer is the best time to visit Hawaii. Lasting from May through November, this is the driest and warmest part of the year. American travelers are often torn between visiting Hawaii during the cold months to escape the snow, and visiting in summer when weather is at its best. During the months when school is out, Hawaii can become quite crowded in places with families. To enjoy the best weather without the crowds, avoid June, July, and August.

What to Expect

One of the most appealing things about Hawaii is that you can create your own experience. Honeymooners looking for romance may want to plan to vacation in Maui, with its picture-perfect miles of beaches, the lovely drive to Hana, and extensive gourmet restaurants. From days at the spa to excursions to black sand beaches, there are many opportunities for romance on this Hawaiian Island.

In Oahu, visitors will find the famous beaches of Waikiki and gorgeous scenery too. For many travelers, the dramatic mountains of Nuuanu Pali Lookout are one of the most beautiful sights in all of Hawaii. On the island of Kauai, travelers will find a range of adventure. If you can tear yourself away from the miles of heavenly beaches, there are canyons to explore and a coastline that is perfect for kayaking.

The Big Island of Hawaii is known as being the island of adventure. Home to one of the world’s most active volcanoes, a trip to the Big Island is full of outdoor activities including trekking through rainforests, taking photographs in the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and exploring the interior on horseback. The Big Island also has its relaxing side for those who are looking for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling.

Must Bring

Think about the warm breezes and beautiful sunsets of Hawaii and pack whatever you want to be wearing in that scene. Hawaii is all about a relaxed atmosphere, so you won’t need much more than a bathing suit, pair of flip flops, a sundress or two, and a big pair of sunglasses. If you plan on indulging in the fine dining scene, pack along a couple of dressier outfits but nothing too fancy is required.

Everyone has his or her own favorite way to relax at the beach. Be sure to bring enough entertainment for your beach vacation including novels, magazines, and music. For the kids, you might want to bring along a Frisbee or football for the beach. You will always be able to rent snorkel equipment, but some kids might like to have their own for exploring the incredible marine life off Hawaii’s shores.

Getting There

While flights from the continental U.S. might be long, Hawaii is easily accessible. It feels like an exotic journey, but Hawaii is, of course, a state, so naturally, no passport is needed for Americans to travel this distance, and there are many direct flights from across the country each day. The largest airport in Hawaii is located in Honolulu on the island of Oahu. Other major airports include Maui and the Big Island.

The most significant expense will be your flight from the continental U.S. to Hawaii. Flights within the Hawaiian islands are affordable and short (although these charter flights are often in small planes). No matter what your final destination is, it will be easy enough to travel between the islands. Many travelers do prefer to fly direct to their island of choice, which is especially easy for the Big Island, Oahu, or Maui.

What to Know About Vacation Rentals in Hawaii

Whether your vacation to Hawaii is once-in-a-lifetime or a favorite destination, you will want to maximize every minute of your trip, from the best attractions and activities to the best restaurants and beaches. The finishing touch to this recipe for success is an oceanfront vacation rental. With your own Hawaiian beach villa, the pleasures of this exotic island will be right on your doorstep.

Vacation rentals are simply the most relaxing form of accommodation. Here you can spread out in the comfort of extra living space, and sometimes even private outdoor space. With your own kitchen and laundry facilities, rentals offer incredible convenience as well. Family trips to Hawaii don’t have to break the bank; you can get incredible value when you choose vacation rentals.

For more of the best of Hawaii, check out

• The Kona Coast's best beaches
• Maui's best golf courses
• Some of the best restaurants on Kauai