How to Plan a Vacation in Hawaii

The Hawaiian Islands are a truly unique part of the United States. Hawaii is rich in Polynesian culture. The islands are known for their spectacular volcanic mountains and beautiful clear water that offers some of the best diving in the country. It's easy to see why this is such a popular vacation spot for visitors, as it has so much to offer. To get the most out of your trip to Hawaii, the trick is to plan ahead.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Step 1

Decide when you want to go. Hawaii's busiest tourist months are between December and April, and in the summer months of June and July. The temperature in Hawaii is fairly constant, with only a 10-degree difference in temperature between summer and winter. However, winter does tend to be the rainy season. In addition, if seeing the migrating Humpback whales is one of your goals, make sure you make your travel arrangements between January and April.

Step 2

Determine which island(s) you want to visit. The state of Hawaii has a lot more going on than just sun and sea. Oahu has lots of museums and art galleries. On Oahu you can learn about Hawaiian culture and visit ancient temples or you can check out filming locations of the series "Lost." Maui has plenty of spectacular diving and snorkeling and is one of the best places to see Humpback whales. If you like to hike, there are volcanoes and lava fields you can hike to on the Big Island. Kauai has lush rainforests and waterfalls. If you want to practice your golf or want to learn a new sport like surfing or kiteboarding, there are places that offer that, too. Determining how you want to enjoy your vacation will help you decide where you want to stay.

Step 3

Make sure you're centrally located. Unless your Hawaiian vacation is going to be spent entirely in a quiet resort, it's a good idea to make sure your accommodations are close to the activities you plan to pursue. This doesn't mean you have to stay in Waikiki. However, unless your only purpose for going to Oahu is to surf, you may want to think twice about spending your whole time at a resort all the way on the North Shore since it can take an hour to reach Honolulu.

Step 4

Plan your itinerary before you get to the islands. Most people are surprised just how many miles they can put on a rental car in Hawaii. To avoid this, make sure you come up with a rough plan so that you don't end up zigzagging your way up and down the island. That way you'll spend less time on the road and more time actually enjoying the sites. Just make sure you don't try to pack too much in to one day. One or two activities a day should be plenty to keep you occupied but not rushed.

Tips & Warnings

If you decide to visit more than one island, make sure you give yourself plenty of time to see each one.

Article Written By Shiromi Nassreen

Shiromi Nassreen has been writing professionally since 2005. She specializes in travel and outdoor topics, and her articles have appeared in various print and online publications, including "DISfunkshion Magazine" and Matador Travel. Nassreen holds a Bachelor of Arts in theatre studies from Rose Bruford College of Speech & Drama.

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