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Category Archives: Hawaii Hotels and Other Places to Stay

Camping on Maui

06 Friday Dec 2013

Posted by Lisa in Everything Hawaii Vacations, Hawaii Activities, Hawaii Hotels and Other Places to Stay, Islands - Maui

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grass

Remember the general Hawaii rules that the windward (east-facing) side of any island will be rainier than the leeward (west-facing) and the south side may be windier.

Also remember that although crime is relatively low in Hawaii, it does exist, so stay together, or near other people and keep an eye on your stuff, just to be safe. Don’t leave anything valuable in your car, as there are some vehicle break-ins in quiet areas, just like any other tourist area.

Haleakala National Park

Haleakala is a very large park that stretches from the ocean to the mountain and offers many camping opportunities. There are restrictions (usually you can only camp 2 to 3 nights) and you do need a permit in places.

The National park official website is here and their in-depth camping info is here — be sure to read the posted warnings and advisories as any wilderness can be dangerous.

Hosmer Grove Campground Accessible by road, located at 6800 feet elevation, near the park entrance. No permit needed. Picnic tables, barbecue grills, and outdoor pit toilets available. Usually cool and can be windy or rainy. Good stargazing.

Kipahulu Campground Accessible by road, 40 minutes South of Hana, near the ocean. No permit needed. There is no drinking water available, but there are picnic tables, BBQ grills, and an outdoor pit toilet. Kipahulu is the forest area near Oheo Gulch (formerly known as the seven sacred pools) a popular area known for its waterfalls.

Paliku Wilderness Campground Permit required, campground located after a long 10 mile hike down either the Sliding Sands Trail or the Halemau`u Trail from the summit area. Pit toilets available, but no potable water. Great views from the hike.

Holua Wilderness Campground Permit required, campground located after a long 4 mile hike down the Halemau`u trail. Pit toilets available, but no potable water. Great views from the hike.

Cabins There are cabins available at Holua, Kapalaoa, and Paliku. To reach the cabins, you must hike a minimum of 4 miles to Holua, 6 miles to Kapalaoa, and 10 miles to Paliku.

“Each cabin is allocated to one party as a unit, with a capacity of 12 people per night. Fees for the cabins are based on the number of people in the party: 1-6 people – $40.00, 7-12 people – $80.00. At least one member of the party must be 18 years of age or older. To enter the reservation lottery, write to Haleakala National Park, Attention Cabins at least 90 days prior to your trip. Include your first and alternate choices of dates and cabin preferred. The more flexible your request, the better your chance of winning a reservation.” — from http://www.nps.gov/hale/home.htm

State Parks

** Permits needed, info here

Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area At 6200 feet elevation in Kula Forest Reserve, 9.7 miles upland from Kula on Waipoli Road off Kekaulike Avenue (Highway 377); 4-wheel drive vehicle recommended.

Great views, one cabin, in a forest reserve at elevation (gets cold). Extensive info available here

Wai’anapanapa State Park Located In Hana at end of Wai’anapanapa Road off Hana Highway (Highway 360), 52.8 miles east of Kahului Airport–3 hours drive.

Features include native hala forest, legendary cave, heiau (place of worship), natural stone arch, sea stacks, blow holes and small black sand beach.

There are several Maui County parks, but none currently allow camping due to overcrowding, abuse and squatting problems.

If you want to be near the ocean, research Wai’anapanapa State Park or Kipahulu Campground – everything else is at elevation.

Have a great trip. Lisa

Maui Hotels with Kitchens and Kitchenettes (and condos)

14 Thursday Nov 2013

Posted by Lisa in Everything Hawaii Vacations, Hawaii Deals, Coupons, and Budget Planning, Hawaii Hotels and Other Places to Stay, Islands - Maui

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Staying at a Maui hotel that has a kitchen or kitchenette can save you tons on money. oahu hotel

My family and I have spent lots of time on Maui, and prices here are definitely higher than on the other Hawaiian islands. I have especially noticed this when dining out with my family.

To save money and to keep from spending too much precious vacation time in restaurants, we like to stay in hotels that have kitchens or kitchenettes. Below is a list of some of my top picks for Maui hotels that have kitchen facilities. These range from budget to luxury and are listed in no particular order…

Hololani Oceanfront Condos Great, beach front location in West Maui, every unit here has a kitchen. $220 at website.

Outrigger Aina Nalu This hotel offers grocery certificates to those staying five or more nights. Not ocean front but located about 1/2 mile from Lahaina Harbor and in easy walking distance of Front Street’s galleries and shops. Each of the 135 rooms includes a kitchen. From $119 at Expedia.

Mauian on Napili Bay Located on Maui’s Napili Bay Beach, all of these studios have kitchenettes (and ocean views). Vintage 50′s. Plenty of aloha but some rooms showing their age, while others are remodeled. $185 at website.

Puamana Vacation Homes About one mile from Lahaina and near the beach, this gated community has townhouses with full kitchens (and 1 to 3 bedrooms). Around $155 at MauiVacationRentals.net

The Whaler All of the studios and 1-2 bedroom condos at this oceanfront, gate resort have full kitchens. Walking distance from Whaler’s Village. $177 at Expedia.

The Fairmont Kea Lani This luxury hotel offers suites only, and each has a kitchenette and (along with views overlooking the white sand beach and pool). $369 at Expedia.

As with restaurants and hotels, groceries are spendier on Maui than the other Hawaiian islands but you can save tons by shopping at stores like Foodland and using the discount card they give you.

There’s also a Costco on the island and several good farmers markets. Check hotels, like the Outrigger Aina Nalu listed above for specials like their grocery certificates.

Maui hotels vs condos Some of the cheaper condos do not have air conditioning or daily maid service, so be sure to ask about that

Best Romantic Hotels and Hotels for Weddings On Oahu

13 Wednesday Nov 2013

Posted by Lisa in Everything Hawaii Vacations, Hawaii Hotels and Other Places to Stay, Islands - Oahu

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hotelThese are the best Romantic Hotels and hotels for Weddings in all of Oahu, in my opinion. Generally, in Oahu you will find small pools with minimal extras at the hotels, because the great swimming beaches and extras are so easily available scattered around the island. Expect *not* to spend your whole vacation at the hotel.

Hotel Best Aspect Best Price I have found
New Otani Kaimana Beach Hotel The New Otani is located off to one far side of Waikiki, away from the beach crowds. Right on the beach Nice overall, quieter hotel $168 at the website
Ilikai hotel and suites Not on Waikiki beach, but is on the shoreline, on the boat harbor.There are lots of weddings here in the beautiful chapel and on the grounds. $95 at expedia
Royal Hawaiian Hotel Just a beautiful hotel with romantic grounds on the best beachfront location in all of Waikiki. Pure beach and ocean as far as you can see $300 expedia
Kahala Mandarin Oriental Hawaii 10 minutes from Waikiki on an awesome, quieter beach. They specialize in weddings. Dolphin quest is on site which is always cool. I love seeing and being near the dolphins; and even though they are captive, they seem cool with it. They seem engaged, interested, and joyful to be interacting with people. $395 at expedia
Turtle Bay Resort Awesome beach cottages, ocean views in almost every room, off on its own on the North Shore. Very quiet and remote. $218 at priceline

Read more reviews of any Hawaii hotel here. My favorite hotel booking engine is expedia, because 90% of the time, I have found, they have the best available price. Somehow, they frequently offer one night free or other discounts that the other places don’t.

I have checked each of these hotel prices at expedia, hotels.com, priceline, and the hotel website to come to my ‘best available price’. If you consistently find higher prices than what I have found, maybe prices are up due to season high season or some other reason. If you find lower, don’t question it, just book it!

Best Oahu Hotel for Families

17 Thursday Oct 2013

Posted by Lisa in Everything Hawaii Vacations, Hawaii Hotels and Other Places to Stay, Islands - Oahu

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Note from Lisa – This is by my guest writer Chantel, and I agree with her, the Hilton is one of the absolute best hotels for families on Oahu. Check out my best Hawaii advice for access to my books where I recommend more best Oahu family hotels. The slides at the Hilton are new, we never got to enjoy them so far, but I’ve heard great things. My son (and my husband) LOVED the penguins and the fish and the gardens.

Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort

Just twenty minutes away from the Honolulu International Airport, is the Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort and Spa, which is, in my opinion the best hotel on Oahu for families. Situated on over twenty oceanfront acres on the beautiful beaches of Waikiki.

Not only is it well-known that they have some of the best accommodations on the island, but the Hilton prides itself on making all guests, no matter how big or how small, feel right at home and shows them the “island spirit”.

Let’s begin with the gorgeous beaches and pools at the Hilton Hawaiian Village. Just on the beach itself, there is a variety of ways families can have fun with one another in the Hawaiian surf. From Atlantis Submarine excursions to learning to catch the perfect wave on your surfboard and everything in between the Hilton as all the water activities for the beach covered.

There are six amazing pools at the Hilton and even a five-acre salt water lagoon named the Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon. Families will not even know which pool to hit first. The Paradise Pool is a must-do while staying at the Hilton. This pool has two levels and is even heated.

If tubing through the intertwining streams and through beautiful tropical gardens sounds fun just wait till you see what is in store. The best part about the pool is the seventy-seven foot tube slide! The kids will just love shooting down the tunnel and popping out into the pool! For those families that have smaller children, there is a Keiki Pool, which the shallow swimming area. So, as you can see the Hilton has something appropriate for every age to enjoy.

diamondhead For something unique and exciting for the kids, try Camp Penquin, which offers both half and full day programs. Here, they will learn about Hawaii and its culture through various fun activities. And parents can sneak away for a bit, while the kids are being entertained.

The Waikiki Starlight Luau at the Hilton is sure to impress and entertain your entire family. With live Hawaiian music to exciting island games, the Starlight Luau will not disappoint. Have the kids get some “tattoos” and learn how to hula all at the on-site luau festivities. There are beautiful displays of island dances while you dine upon a tropical Hawaiian feast. The evening ends with the exciting Waikiki Starlight Show.

Finally, those with children will truly appreciate this special part of the hotel. The Hilton Hawaiian Village essentially has its own wildlife right on the hotel grounds. There are over sixty species of birds, fish, and turtles. Even penguins are on the premises, if you can believe that!

The kids are able to feed the penguins and turtles at special times throughout the day. After that, take them through the Gardens of the Village. Here, over fifty varieties of flowers from all over the world are displayed and make for a wonderful backdrop for those family photos.

As you can see, the Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort and Spa is quite unique in that entire families can truly enjoy themselves. (hotel page, check prices at travelnow, or check expedia)

Hapuna Beach Park on the Big Island – A Best Hawaii Beach

20 Friday Sep 2013

Posted by Lisa in Everything Hawaii Vacations, Hawaii Hotels and Other Places to Stay, Islands - Big Island

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Pictures below this description and information about Hapuna: hp1

Hapuna is truly the epitome of a gorgeous Hawaiian beach. It’s long and white and fringed with palm trees on one side and deep-blue, clear water on the other.

People think that the Big Island doesn’t have any good beaches, but they must never have been to Hapuna. Hapuna is arguably one of the nicest, best, prettiest, most fun beaches in the entire state. It’s a phenomenal place to just sit and spend the day watching the surf, or playing in it. hp2

In the winter, sometimes the waves can get too big or hazardous to just play in, but in the summer it’s almost always nice enough to swim, body surf, and snorkel near the rocks to the side.

There is a snack bar and a place to rent boogie boards.

Camping at Hapuna Beach Park

Tent camping may be available sometime in the future, but for now you can camp only in the old A-frame buildings above the parking lot. I’ve heard not so great things about these cabins, like they are old and smelly and full of bugs, but I’ve also heard that they are not that bad and better than a tent. I have not been myself yet. This is a state park, permit required, application is here. Cost is about $50 a night.

Update, I have been to the a-frames. Myself, my husband, and my son stayed for a few nights. It was hot and there were bugs, but we had electricity so we could run a fan. We liked it and recommend it if you don’t mind cabins (no bed – just a wooden platform). read the rest of my thoughts on big island camping here The beach is located on Highway 19, north of Kailua-Kona, near the 70 mile marker. It’s about a 30 minute drive from Kona.

Nearby Hotels:

The Hapuna Prince Hotel is located right on Hapuna Beach, and the other Kohala Coast Hotels are all fairly close. There are no vacation rentals right on or near the beach but the general area has some rentals.

Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel

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Where to Stay in Hawaii – What Hotel to Stay in

14 Friday Jun 2013

Posted by Lisa in Everything Hawaii Vacations, Hawaii Hotels and Other Places to Stay, Islands - Big Island, Islands - Kauai, Islands - Maui, Islands - Oahu, Packing and Planning and Which Island?

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you have a few choices when you’re looking for a place to stay in Hawaii. paddle boat

1. A hotel

2. A condo

3. A bed-and-breakfast

4. A vacation rental

5. A hostel or a campground

I’m going to focus on the hotels because we always stayed in hotels. We like hotels.

A condo would also be nice in my opinion because then you could cook if you wanted to and possibly get more than one room for a similar price as you would get for one room in a hotel but generally we stayed in hotels.

Which Island to Stay On

If you are looking to where to stay the first step is to decide on which island you are going to stay on. I’ve talked about that here and here

for example, Oahu, Maui, Kauai, or the Big Island

Where on that Island?

Once you have decided that you can figure which area you are going to stay at.

For example:

Oahu: Waikiki, Kailua, Ewa, or North Shore or west side?oahu waikiki beach picture Maui: Kihei, Lahaina/Kaanapali, Wailea, Hana, Kahului, upcountry, or North Maui Kauai: Poipu, Kapaa, Lihue, or Princeville Big Island: Kona, Puna, Hilo, Kahaluu, Honokaa, Waimea, or Kohala Coast

Search for hotels

then, once you have picked an island in an area just go to Expedia and type in the island area under hotel and see what hotels come up in your price range.

Even if you don’t want to book at Expedia it is a good starting point to figure out your baseline price. I like to figure out my baseline hotel price and then see if booking hotel and airline together or hotel airline car can beat that price. Usually they can, especially on Expedia.

Help Deciding on an Area

I can’t tell you which area you should stay in, but I can tell you the most popular areas and the quietest areas and you can go from there.

Popular:

Oahu – Honolulu and Waikikigorgeous hawaii beach Oahu Kailua Maui Lahaina/Kaanapali Maui Kihei Maui Kahului Kauai Poipu Big Island Kona

Pricey:

Oahu Kailua, North Shore, Ewa Maui North Maui and Wailea Kauai Princeville Big Island some Kohala Coast (not the best hotel in hawaii though)

Can be budget priced: Oahu: Waikiki, West Side Maui: Kihei, Kahalui Kauai: Kapaa, Lihue Big Island: Hilo, Puna, and Honokaa

where is my favorite place to stay in Hawaii?

We always love to go to Kona if we were staying on the island where we lived. (Hilton Waikoloa – awesome hotel!)

We went to Oahu a lot and almost always stayed in Waikiki. (Check out the Hilton Hawaiian Village)

On Maui I love Wailea. (my favorite hotel is the Wailea Marriott)

and on Kauai I prefer Poipu. (Sheraton Kauai!)

how about you? Do you have an opinion on where the best places to stay in Hawaii are?

The Best Hotel in Hawaii (Hands Down, No Question)

14 Friday Jun 2013

Posted by Lisa in Everything Hawaii Vacations, Hawaii Hotels and Other Places to Stay, Islands - Big Island

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kayaking in the lagoon

Okay, this is my opinion and I know some people will disagree with me – heck some people already have!

However, my favorite hotel in Hawaii across all the islands, and the one I think is the absolute best Hotel in Hawaii is ….

The Hilton Waikoloa Village!

the grounds the ocean and the bridge to the lagoon view from an upper pool

I can’t even tell you how much fun this hotel is!

My husband and I visited this hotel probably six or seven times before we had any kids.

Every time anybody came to the island to visit us we always took them to the hotel.me and the hubby before kids

We wouldn’t even tell them where we were going – we would just say we’re going to a hotel and then we would take them into the lobby and watch their mouths drop open.

Once we had our first son we took him to the Hilton Waikoloa all the time. he love that place. He loved to slide on the slides and play in the pools and just run around the grounds.

He loved to ride on the boats and take the train and feed the Koi fish.

we never stayed for more than a few days but if we didn’t live there and were visiting the island this would’ve been an incredible place to stay.the birds eating out of john's hand at the lagoon

The biggest problem with this hotel is that you are in danger of staying on the grounds for your entire trip. And then you wouldn’t see any of the rest of Hawaii.

See an aerial view of the resort here

some people don’t think this hotel is that great. In my experience, these are people who have a TON of money and get to stay at hotels like this all the time. I have never seen another hotel like the Hilton Waikoloa Village but from the commercials I think that Atlantis is probably similar to it or maybe even nicer.

paddle boatAnd I am sure that people who have a ton more money than I do have managed to find hotels that are more awesome than this one.

However, as a resident I could stay at this hotel for $120 a night! and I just searched on Expedia and anybody can stay there for $200 a night!! (some times if it starts to fill up the price might go up) that’s an amazing price for any hotel in Hawaii – any good hotel. And this hotel is awesome.playing in the lagoon perfect for kids

playing on one of the smaller slides

turtle next to the kayak

What do you think? Agree or disagree with me?

What is your favorite hotel in Hawaii? Why? I would love to hear from you!

Cheap Places to Stay On Kauai – Kauai Budget Lodging

29 Thursday Dec 2011

Posted by Lisa in Everything Hawaii Vacations, Hawaii Deals, Coupons, and Budget Planning, Hawaii Hotels and Other Places to Stay, Islands - Kauai

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kauai sands hotel It’s a lot harder to find cheap kauai lodging than it used to be, but you can still find low prices.

Kauai Sands Hotel – as low as $89. In Kapaa, lovely grounds, nice hotel, and a good location. A very affordable hawaii hotel.

Kauai Vacation Rentals List Many Locations ~ Comprehensive list of Kauai condos, cottages, resorts, luxury oceanfront homes, beachfront hotels, bed and breakfast, bungalows, hawaii accommodations, with photos and 360° virtual tours, hiking, camping, maps, and weather.

Garden Island Inn Kalapaki Beach ~ Large, centrally-located bed and breakfast.

Wailua Bay View Wailua Bay ~ Centrally located, nice condos with cheap accomodations prices.

Kauai Bed and Breakfast Princeville area ~ Room rentals in a plantation-style home.

Magic Sunrise Hawaii Kauai budget vacation rentals and retreat center overlooking Wailua river with mountain views.

Annie’s Princeville Condos Princeville ~ Condos and studios in the Princeville area.

Hotel Coral Reef Kapaa ~ Small, beachfront, landmark hotel – nothing fancy, just a great location with good rates.

Hale Ho’o Maha near Hanalei Bay ~ Bed and breakfast with 4 rooms. Located within a short drive of world-famous beaches.

Kokee Lodge Kokee Park ~ These cheap cabins are operated by the state – no special services. Only great mountain surroundings and a functional place to stay.

Lanikeha Bed and Breakfast Kapaa ~ A large bed and breakfast on 3 acres.

Hale Lani Princeville ~ budget Ocean view condo within the Sealodge at Princeville Resort.

Ocean Cove Bed and Breakfast Suites Paia ~ Bed and breakfast rooms and suites near a private cove.

That’s my list of cheap kauai rentals. If you have one to share, leave it in the comments.

Cheap Places to Stay on Maui

29 Thursday Dec 2011

Posted by Lisa in Everything Hawaii Vacations, Hawaii Deals, Coupons, and Budget Planning, Hawaii Hotels and Other Places to Stay, Islands - Maui, Vacation Costs and Prices

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All of these cheap maui lodging listings were handpicked by me – good luck! I hope you find the perfect rental for you!

kahana Outrigger Royal Kahana This is a Hotel north of Lahaina. Nice place, gorgeous view, with kitchens and washer and dryers – super helpful when on a budget in Maui. On my check I saw rates as low as $135. that’s a cheap hotel rate on maui!

Mojo’s Budget Vacation Rentals
Multiple listings of inexpensive vacation rentals.

Old Lahaina House
Lahaina ~ Inexpensive bed and breakfast practically on Maalaea Bay.

Aloha Pualani
near Lahaina ~ Bed and breakfast in a quiet neighborhood.

Sugar Beach Apartment
Kihei Vacation Rental apartment in Kihei with internet, air conditioning, and washer and dryer in a nice neighborhood.

Peace of Maui
Haliimaile ~ This ‘resort’/rental has a common room setting with private double beds.

Dreams Come True on Maui
Kihei ~ A tropically-landscaped, half acre estate featuring two bed and breakfast suites and a one bedroom ocean view cottage.

Kihei Bay Surf Top Floor Studio
Kihei ~ Air conditioned with sunset views on private lanai, overlooking tennis court and pool. Includes full kitchen, full bath, television, cd player, vcr and telephone. Laundry room,bbq, and hot tub on property.

Hale Hookipa Bed and Breakfast~ Makawao ~ (hibiscus room) Room rental in a plantation home.

Hale Maui Apartment Hotel
Honokowai ~ Near Lahaina. Close swimming beach, all rooms with kitchens.

Kihei Akahi
Kihei ~Their motto is ‘affordable luxury’. Cheap condo in kihei, with two pools, kitchens in the rooms, and across the street from Kamaole Beach Park II.

More Hawaii Money-Saving Articles Here

Big Island Hawaii Cheap Places to Stay

29 Thursday Dec 2011

Posted by Lisa in Everything Hawaii Vacations, Hawaii Deals, Coupons, and Budget Planning, Hawaii Hotels and Other Places to Stay, Islands - Big Island

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These are cheap big island hotels and rentals that I have hand picked! I hope you find something good!

Royal Kona Resort

Royal Kona Resort Right in downtown kona, great rooms, great views, good rates.

Pomaika’i Lucky Farm Bed and Breakfast
South Kona ~ Stay on a working Macadamia Nut farm on the Kona side and get all the macadamia nuts you can eat.

Kapoho Vacation VRBO Homes
Kapoho For your perfect Hawaii vacation: From budget to elegant, ocean-front to ocean-view. Several homes have naturally heated lagoons and tropical fishponds on property.

Hale Aloha Aina
Wood Valley A charming vacation cottage on eight acres of tropical flora near Pahala; it’s the perfect place to stay while exploring the active volcano, exotic black and green sand beaches, and the quiet life on the least populated area on the Big Island. Affordable rates!

Kona Makai Condos #5-104
Kailua-Kona Fully furnished ocean-view condo with a full kitchen in a secure complex; 1 BR – sleeps 4. TV w/ cable, tennis court, pool, spa, BBQ’s, exercise room, and A/C. Unit is near a famous snorkeling beach with turtles.

Ahualoa Country Cottage
Ahualoa ~ Very country, and very cottage – near Waipio Valley.

Waimea Country Lodge
Waimea – more of a rustic vacation lodge. The ocean is about a 20 minute drive away, but Waimea is centrally located to allow you to explore a lot of the Big Island. Discounted prices available online via the site.

Kona at Kona Makai
Kailua-Kona ~ Oceanfront condominium rental within Kona Makai Condos.

Kapoho Oceanfront Beach Cottage
Kapoho Vacation Lots I stayed here for three wonderful nights. These two houses are located in a private gated community right on the ocean! There are three small salt water ponds in the yard – and one of them is naturally heated from geothermal activity. It was wonderful!! The houses have their own private pier to get in the ocean. There are no restaurants or anything nearby, but you have a full kitchen. This is a very quiet secluded area – perfect for together-time.

Our Little Piece of the Rock
Nanawale ~ Rental in lower Puna, that sleeps 6 people.

Kona Bali Kai Condos
Kailua-Kona Centrally located with a pool and a spa.

Uncle Billy’s Bay Hotels
Hilo and Kona Located practically on the water in both Hilo and Kona. Good deals.

Kona Billfisher Resort
Kailua-Kona

Low rates, full kitchens, and a central location on Alii Drive.

Naalii Plantation
Hilo ~ Old anthurium plantation with a koi pond. Deep Hawaii Rental Cottages
Hawaiian Paradise Park ~ These cottages are off the beaten vacation path, but still near everything on the east side of the islands. One bedroom cottages available, plus discount rates on guided adventure hikes.

Dolphin Bay Hotel
Hilo ~ Kitchens in all rooms. Small hotel with a European style.

Kona Islander Inn
Kailua-Kona ~ Central location with a pool and right across the street from a small beach – plus incredible rates. It is so close to downtown that it can be noisy, but not as noisy as Waikiki!

Wild Ginger Inn
Hilo ~ Hostel-type inn but they also offer double and single rooms for discounted rates. Adventure hiking tours to the wild nature spots on the Big Island. also available.

Hotel Honoka’a Club
Honokaa ~ On the Hamakua coast. If you are coming to the Big Island to see Waipio Valley, this is a great place to stay.

The Jungle Bungalow – these homes are not available at this time
Lower Puna ~ Two vacation homes available.

Becky’s Bed and Breakfast – Becky’s appears to have shut down for now.
Naalehu No beaches or activities within walking distance, but less than 30 miles from Volcanoes National Park and even closer to Punalu’u Black sand beach and South Point.

Oahu Budget Hotels and Discount Condos

28 Wednesday Dec 2011

Posted by Lisa in Everything Hawaii Vacations, Hawaii Deals, Coupons, and Budget Planning, Hawaii Hotels and Other Places to Stay, Islands - Oahu

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oahu hotel view to beachThese are all hand-picked by me cheap hotels and rentals – more about Oahu here..

Castle Waikiki Grand Hotel, Honolulu,HI,United States

Waikiki Grand Hotel
Honolulu Cheap rates and Kitchenettes (save more money by packing snacks and eating in) and balconys available. Great views of Diamondhead.

Also consider the oahu coupons in the Hawaii entertainment book and the go oahu card to save money on the rest of your trip.

Ohana Waikiki West, Honolulu,HI,United StatesOhana Waikiki West
Waikiki Large hotel behind the International Marketplace. I am a big fan of the Ohana hotels – they are the cheaper version of the outrigger hotels (they are part of the same company, but designed and marketed more for families – think kitchen options, and lower prices.)

Ohana Waikiki East
Waikiki Quality, oahu hotel fairly close to Waikiki Beach, the marketplace, the zoo, and the aquarium.

Coconut Corner
Kailua Large one bedroom house, as cheap as $805 a week. (2011)

Waikiki Grand Condo
Waikiki One very inexpensive and very booked condo on the diamond head end of Waikiki. $400 a week is a phenomenal price (2011). wow.

Waikiki Penthouse Condos
Waikiki Condominium rentals in Island Colony, which is central in Waikiki. Rates are under $100 for a studio, and for waikiki long term rentals you get even lower prices. There are also low-priced 1 bedrooms available. Email Sam. He will help you out.

Beach Lane Bed and Breakfast
Kailua Studios with private entrances and many amenities near Kailua Beach.

Turtle Bay Condos at Kuilima Estates
Kahuku (North Shore) Condo rentals next to the Turtle Bay Golf Course. Studio rates as low as $110 daily, $660 weekly (free night?) (2011)

Pacific Monarch Hotel
Waikiki Close to Waikiki Beach – building also includes a heated pool and a rooftop jet spa.

The Breakers Hotel
Waikiki Steps from Waikiki beach.

Winston Waikiki Condos
Waikiki ~ Nice condos in Waikiki. Wow, regular rates are good, but the last time I checked they were having a rollback sale to 1980s prices. $65 for a condo in Waikiki? pretty amazing.

Ohana Maile Sky Court Hotel
Honolulu Quality, low-cost hotel with great service and location.

The Big Surf Hotel
Waikiki A budget hotel in Waikiki.

Alii Bluffs Windward Bed and Breakfast
Kaneohe Gay friendly establishment – double bedrooms with a private bath.

Aloha Punawai Hotel … hmm, can’t find a link. maybe shut down?
Waikiki Close to Waikiki Beach, have heard good things.

Royal Grove Hotel
Waikiki Reviews: Kitchenette studios for under $60.00 in Waikiki. For that price I wouldn’t care if the building was pink! (it is). This is a family owned hotel that invites you to be part of the family.

Review of the royal grove from a reader:

“We picked up our car rental from Alamo, and set off for our hotel in the city. We stayed at the Royal Grove Hotel. The exterior left very much to be desired, and I must admit I was afraid this was going to be a dump. We were pleased to find that the hotel owns condos in the building across the street, at the Aston Pacific Monarch. This is a much nicer looking building, although it matches all the other towers slapped up on Waikiki in the 60s. If we had bought the same type of room from Aston, it would have been almost twice as expensive. The room was spartan, and the carpet could have used a shampoo, but it had a full kitchenette, a clean bathroom, and a large patio. Our room was on the twelfth floor, so we had a good view, although it was better from the rooftop pool, above the 32nd floor.”

Backpackers Plantation Village
North Shore Part of this funky little resort is a hostel, and you’ll need to be able to appreciate the the “hippy” life to be happy here, but there are private rooms available for as little as $62.00 a night. Great deal for special people. Private rooms, private studios, and private cabins – plus cheap hostel beds

You may also like to read:

Oahu Coupons

Cheap and Direct Flights to Oahu

Best Oahu Luau

Free Things to Do on Oahu

Oahu to Maui

Oahu Go Select Card Info

Best Hawaii Hotels: Most Popular and Recommendations

28 Wednesday Dec 2011

Posted by Lisa in Everything Hawaii Vacations, Hawaii Hotels and Other Places to Stay, Islands - Big Island, Islands - Kauai, Islands - Maui, Islands - Oahu

≈ 14 Comments

** This is all my opinion on the best hotels on each island based on my own travels (I like affordability, nice pools, good beach locations, lots to do – I don’t care much about decor and maid service) plus my booking and search logs over the last 14 years.

Best Oahu Hotels – Best Maui Hotels – Best Big Island Hotels – Best Kauai Hotels

Oahu Hotels

#1 Best Oahu Hotel Overall and Best Oahu beach hotel:

The Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach
The Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach has one of the best locations on Waikiki Beach. It’s got a great beachside bar and a better restaurant. It is grand-looking and pleasant without being stuffy. Prices are generally lower than other hotels with comparable rooms and less-than-prime locations. Outrigger Official Site.

  • #2 Best Oahu Hotel Overall and Best Oahu Beach Hotel
  • hilton - awesome oahu hotel Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort
    The Hilton Hawaiian Village is truly a fun and wonderful hotel to stay at. They do fireworks on fridays and hula shows – they have a brand new awesome waterslide at the pool (the only one in Waikiki as of 2010). They have penguins and fish ponds. It’s a great hotel and lots of fun for families or anyone. I love this hotel. Check prices at the hotel site but expedia is usually better.

    #1 Best Oahu Budget Hotel:

    aqua waikiki beachside hotel Aston Waikiki Beachside Hotel Nice, clean, across the street from the beach. Not a lot AT the hotel, like no restaurants, but you are seriously right in the middle of Waikiki and there are restaurants all around.

    Check prices at the official beachside site (i’ve seen prices as low as $109 at expedia tho)

    this next one is actually an ad, so I wouldn’t call it a best, but the price is awesome and it’s a good hotel. It’s the Ambassador Waikiki.

    #2 Best Oahu Budget Hotel: Aston Waikiki Circle Hotel Waikiki Circle Hotel

    This hotel is super close to the beach, and has great views. the rooms are small, but the view, the price and the short walking distance can make up for that.

    I have seen prices as low as just under $100, but that is during the low season and by booking early.

    If you are booking in summer or other high seasons you may pay closer to $200.

    #3 Best Oahu Budget Hotel: Royal Grove Hotel
    Clean, short walk to Waikiki Beach, friendly service, kitchens available, fantastically low prices.

    The #1 Best Oahu Family Hotel is the Hilton Hawaiian Village that I talk about above.

    #2 Best Oahu Family Hotel: Aston at the Waikiki Banyan
    Full kitchen suites with divided rooms for an inexpensive price. A straight one block walk to Waikiki Beach will get you right behind the sea wall, perfect for small kids. On the roof of one of the floors is a nice playground, a small pool, a tiny putting green, BBQs, and a tennis court. On arrival the kids get a sand pail with beach toys and crayons, and a “Kids play and eat free” card with a booklet telling you where to use it. Walls nice and thick so sound from other rooms doesn’t carry. Parking garage is one of the cheapest in Waikiki. Resortquest Official Site

    Maui Hotels

    Best Maui Hotel Overall:

    Whaler On Kaanapali Beach, Lahaina,HI,United States Whaler on Kaanapali Beach This was a hard choice, because Maui’s touristy areas are really spread out around the island, and each area offers something different – plus there are tons of luxury hotels that are just perfect in every way – but since most people can’t afford $850 a night just for the room, I went middle of the road with a hotel in a popular area that gets great reviews on a fantastic beach.

    #2 Best Maui Hotel Overall

    Diamond Resorts Ka’anapali Beach Club This all-suite resort is loaded with amenities and is surrounded by lush, tropical landscaping, and scenic views of the Pacific. The spacious timeshare accommodations are available in one- or two-bedroom units. These suites include laundry facilities, private balconies, partial or full kitchens, and separate living room and bedroom areas. Check prices on the by-owner timeshare site KaanapaliTimeshare to find rates way lower than the official resort’s site.

    #3 Best Maui Hotel Overall

    Kaanapali Beach Hotel

    This hotel is highly respected as “the most hawaiian” hotel, meaning they do things authentically. People really like to stay here and it’s on a great stretch of beach.

    Best Maui Budget Hotel: Punahoa Beach Apartments

    Great location in Kihei with fabulous ocean views and no-frills, clean apartments for discount prices. Every unit is oceanfront with a complete kitchen. Close to grocery shopping and all of Kihei, with Kamaole Beach park a few steps away.

    Best Maui Family Hotel: Hololani Resort
    This is a condominum resort (not a hotel) with all large, oceanview suites with kitchens. Beach and pool are great for kids and prices are affordable. Location is a short driving distance to the craziness of Kaanapali and Lahaina.

    Another Recommended Family Hotel

    Wailea Beach Marriott Resort & Spa

    For families, I also like the Wailea Marriott – for the great kiddie pool structure and the water slides and fantastic location (no beach on the grounds but really nice beach right next door – short walk). official site

    Kauai Hotels

    Best Kauai Hotel Overall:

    Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa

    Families and couples and singles alike enjoy this hotel. There’s a lagoon, good boogie boarding at the beach, and adults-only pool, hot tubs, a lazy river and slides. Great rooms, restaurants, and grounds. Overall a fantastic hotel in sunny and hot Poipu Beach.

    Hyatt Official Site

    Best Kauai Hotel for Families: Marriott's Waiohai Beach Club, Koloa,HI,United States Marriott’s Waiohai Beach Club
    Located on Poipu Beach with large rooms, gorgeous grounds, and good snorkeling. Kitchens, washers and dryers, a mostly calm beach area, three pools plus a kiddie pool, barbeques, and soundproofing make this a great place to go with the kids.

    Best Kauai Budget Hotel: Kapaa Sands

    These are condos, so you’re not going to get a concierge desk and daily maid service, but you will get great views and a full kitchen at really low prices for every room.

    A note about Princeville hotels – I haven’t mentioned any here, but there are plenty of quality hotels in Princeville. Princeville gets a bit more rain than Poipu and has a little more condos than hotels. However, it is beautiful and many people say it is their favorite place on the island.

    Big Island Hotels

    Best Big Island Hotel Overall: Mauna Kea Beach Hotel

    This was a really hard choice. The Mauna Kea is a gorgeous hotel and it’s on arguable the best beach in all the Hawaiian Islands (plus they restrict access to it which is practically unheard of in Hawaii) with a great reputation and nearby golf and a little pool .. but there’s nothing else to do and it’s quite a far drive from Kailua-Kona. However, lots of people like it and say it’s best for relaxing. I’ll also recommend the Hilton Waikola (see below) and the Sheraton Keauhou in Kailua-Kona. Official Site

    Best Big Island Family Hotel Hilton Waikoloa Village Hilton Waikoloa Hotel

    At the link above I have written a big review and added pictures. My child and even myself and my husband just love to take weekend trips to this hotel – we go about 4 times a year. We love the water slides and the lagoon and the tram and the boats – it’s really nice. It can be expensive (mostly the food is expensive), and it is far to walk from one end of the grounds to the other, but it’s so beautiful and fun. To counter how expensive the food is we usually bring or buy cereal and fruit for breakfast and eat dinner at the King’s shops – they have a Subway and a few other places that are healthy and reasonable and good.

    some of these reviews are poor, and I really don’t understand it. They are about poor service (I’ve never encountered poor service here, and would never count on it to make or break my vacation like some of these people apparently did) and cold swimming pool water ( ?? the pools are HUGE, you can’t expect them to be heated – and I’ve never found the water to be cold) and too much walking (exercise is *good* for you) and having to wait for trams and boats to get to the lobby (get walking 🙂 – the walk from rooms to lobby is paved with $7 million of artwork on one side and spectacular ocean views on the other).

    Best Budget-Inexpensive Hotel on the Big Island: Kona Billfisher
    Close to town, full kitchens, ocean and mountain views. Nice place for good prices.

    The best hotel in Hilo would have to be the Hilo Hawaiian. Great location, and well taken care of. Definitely spend most of your vacation on the Kona side though ;). Hilo tends to be humid and rainy with not as many things to do, and the beaches are not what you’ll be expecting from Hawaii.

    Military Accomodations and Lodging in Hawaii

    28 Wednesday Dec 2011

    Posted by Lisa in Everything Hawaii Vacations, Hawaii Hotels and Other Places to Stay, Islands - Big Island, Islands - Kauai, Islands - Maui, Islands - Oahu

    ≈ 6 Comments

    Oahu Lodging, Big Island Lodging, Kauai Lodging, Maui Lodging

    If you are in the military and planning on vacationing in Hawaii you are in for the time of your life. The military has great morale, welfare, and recreation facilities here that are actually beneficial to your morale and welfare and provide great recreation. Imagine that. Ok, here we go.

    Oahu

    Hale Koa If you are visiting Oahu, I recommend the Hale Koa (house of the warrior). I LOVE the Hale Koa. (more inexpensive oahu hotels)

    It is located right on Waikiki Beach in one of the prime locations. It has 817 rooms, swimming pools, a PX, bars, restaurants, a weight room and more. Make your reservations as early as possible … It is hard to get a room.

    If you are planning on visiting any of the military bases on Oahu you may need to rent a car (or take the Oahu Bus) as none of them are close to the hotel. I think the cheapest rate is about $75 a night … and the rooms are great!

    Pililaau Army Recreation Center 39 cabins close to the beach on the leeward side of the island (not in Waikiki). Nice place.

    Tripler Army Hotel – right behind Tripler at Fort Shafter. Convenient and easy for work.

    Inn at Schofield Barracks – right at Schofield Barracks. Not so great for vacationing if you are looking for fun and beaches 🙂

    If you are on a vacation, be sure to check out my reviews of the Go Oahu Card and the Hawaii Entertainment Book – both are great for Oahu. They aren’t military discounts, but they can still save you good money.

    The Big Island

    Kilauea Military Lodge On the Big Island, the hands-down best place to stay is Kilauea Military Camp. I worked there as NCOIC of the dispensary for 3 years (cherry duty if you can get it) and loved my entire tour of duty.

    The camp is located across the street from Kilauea Caldera within the boundaries of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Talk about amazing … we used to wow the Sergeant Majors and the Colonels who came on official business to inspect the dispensary by walking them across the street and having them look into the 300 foot drop off the lip of the caldera. Then we told them there was a golf course right across the highway on the other side and they finished up the inspection pretty quick. (Fore!)

    KMC is actually a bunch of cabins grouped together with a general store, a gas station, a bowling alley, and a cafeteria in the middle. The cabins are all really nice and most have fireplaces (it gets cold at the 4500 foot level). I think rooms start around $65.

    Kauai

    My husband and I spent our honeymoon at one of the eight MWR cabins on Barking Sands beach within the Pacific Missile Range Facility Cabins on Kauai. My biggest regret about getting out of the military is I will not get to stay at this place again. I never wanted to leave the base! My husband said “Lets go see the canyon” or “lets go to a restaurant” and I said “No honey, lets stay here and barbeque and swim!”

    The beach is three miles long, the cabins are right on the beach … and we were the only ones there the entire time. We would go out in the morning and swim and snorkel, and then go back to the cabin and shower and eat. And then we would go look for shells and swim and snorkel and fish, and then go back and shower and eat. And then go back and swim and watch the sunset, and then barbeque and go to sleep. It was the most relaxing time of my entire life. The cabins were $80.00 a night (16 years ago) and well worth it.

    Maui

    Unfortunately, there are no military bases or mwr facilities on Maui. Really, the best you can do is a military-friendly hotel. I recommend the Kaanapali Beach Hotel

    So, if you are visiting an MWR facility in Hawaii get ready to have a great time. If none of these meet your needs, then check out more Hawaii hotels here

    Hawaii Itinerary – Planning the Best Hawaii Trip Ever!

    20 Tuesday Dec 2011

    Posted by Lisa in Everything Hawaii Vacations, Hawaii Deals, Coupons, and Budget Planning, Hawaii Hotels and Other Places to Stay, Islands - Big Island, Islands - Kauai, Islands - Maui, Islands - Oahu, Packing and Planning and Which Island?

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    maui beach

    Note from Lisa – my friend Cindy wrote this.

    The intention of this article was to share what someone who KNOWS Hawaii would choose to do on her vacation there.

    I’ll be chiming in here and there with my own opinion. Our opinions will probably be similar but her kids are older and she’s a bit more eco-oriented than I am. See more from Cindy at Coconut Roads Hawaii Eco Travel Magazine.

    You could also skip directly to the hawaii itineraries for the individual islands. Kauai, Maui, Oahu, Molokai, big island, Choosing Airlines to Hawaii

    My Ideal Hawaii Itinerary

    When my friend and sometimes editor, Lisa, asked me to write an article for her website about my ideal Hawaii vacation, I readily accepted – Not only is Hawaii one of my favorite places in the world and one-time home, but it’s not often we give ourselves permission to plan a vacation as if there were no constraints – no budget to hold me back, no 8-day limit – woohoo!

    Even though this is just a make-believe itinerary, I am approaching the article with a great sense of adventure and am especially curious how my “Ideal Hawaii Itinerary’ will turn out. I wonder how much of my dream vacation will include places and things to do I have recommended when writing about budget travel in Hawaii, as I often have for my website and ebooks.

    I am also curious how much my itinerary will veer from eco type activities and places. Nature, camping, eco-friendly places to stay, tourism that supports the islands and the environment are all big on my list because that’s just who I am.

    It’s the reason that over a decade ago I founded CoconutRoads.com , a Hawaii Eco Travel online magazine.

    Given the choice of things to do in my everyday day life I usually choose the hike, sitting outdoors on a summer’s evening, horseback riding, enjoying a garden, that sort of thing. I can also be a sucker though for a scrumptious meal in a romantic restaurant, a concert, shopping for new clothes, and all those sort of things.

    Mostly while living and vacationing in Hawaii I appreciated the natural beauty of Hawaii and its culture…

    Having lived there for over 14 years – three different times, two different islands between 1988 and 2010, I already have ideas of places that I want to see again and things I want to do – many of these were free but others were those things that aren’t cheap and you do once, promising yourself someday you will splurge and enjoy them again – which I fully intend to do vicariously in this assignment.

    And since I believe in the law of attraction, I won’t be surprised if this does someday become a “real vacation.”

    Sooo to answer to complete the assignment,”If I were going to Hawaii right now and could do anything I wanted, here’s what I would do and see and what island(s) I would go to and where I would stay…”

    A Bit About The Hawaiian Islands to start off these itinerary ideas

    Each of Hawaii’s islands has its own charm, and since this is an ideal vacation, I know I will want to visit all of them.

    I think since I have lived the longest on the Big Island (only six months on Oahu and part time on Kauai), I will spend more time on the other islands. I haven’t seen much of Maui at all, so that’s one I want to explore, including a day or maybe overnight trip to Molokai.

    Oahu has so many people and cities but there are fun things there that are found nowhere else, and while I would never want to live in a big city or spend day after day in one, I enjoy a few days in Honolulu, enough that I’m sure to visit there.

    They say Kauai is a nature lover’s paradise, and it is to me – there’s something else about Kauai that attracts me that I can’t quite pinpoint.

    When I remember days on the Garden Island, where I spent almost every weekend one year, the first things that come to mind are the smell of flowers – this is true for any of the islands I have visited from the mainland, but my time on Kauai was spent while living in Hilo, orchid capital of the world, so I think that Kauai has its own floral scent.

    Kauai is definitely greener than the other main islands. The other thing that comes to mind is the friendliness of the island and the joy of being able to travel between two places, each very unique from the other in climate, terrain, everything…in a very short time.

    It’s true that you can drive around the Big Island in a day, but on Kauai you can drive from one side to the other and engage in activities and have plenty of time left over to relax, enjoy lunch, etc. Of the islands I’ve visited, Kauai has always been my favorite.

    Seeing lots of humpback whales is a must-do. The whales arrive in December and leave in April. Some may leave in March, but there will still be hundreds, including lots of babies !

    During whale watching season, March is best for the weather. Anytime of year is lovely but since many things I want to do are on the windward sides of the islands, less rain is better.

    (Places on the south and leeward sides of the islands like Kona Big Island and Waikiki Oahu are almost always sunny.)

    I also may want to attend some of the Merrie Monarch Festival (the world hula competition) on the Big Island. This takes place the week preceding Easter (April 8 in 2012). Spring Break for most of the U.S., including many of Hawaii’s schools Is mid-March.

    And I plan to spend three weeks. While this is an unlimited budget itinerary, I don’t want to stay away from home and family too long. We will be missed.

    My fiance and I work from our computers running our eco travel websites, and while most of our work is more like play than work, other than blogging a weekly vacation updates and pictures, this is going to be a Get Away from responsibilities. Since we’ll be married by then, it will be a honeymoon of sorts.

    We’ll start with Kauai on the south end of the island chain and travel north to the Big Island. Since I enjoy flying with Hawaiian Airlines, and their website lets you choose multiple destinations, we’ll fly straight home from the Big Island rather than returning to Kauai.

    Choosing Airlines to Hawaii

    In “real life” I first look at the Hawaiian Airlines site for fares and then at Hotwire.com

    I don’t especially like that at Hotwire.com I don’t get to know the exact airline I’ll be on until after I purchase my tickets, but I love the deals I have found there. Sometimes I’ve found better deals at Hawaiian and other times at Hotwire.com

    I haven’t tried Priceline yet, but I have studied their site after Lisa recommended them and will try them in the future. The drawback is that as with Hotwire you don’t know exactly what hotel you’re going to get.

    Lisa taught me some tricks though, like looking at the Priceline forum and finding out where your favorite hotels are more likely to come up as far as ratings, amenities and locations – things you do know upfront.

    As for hotels and rental cars, it varies. I have probably used Hotwire.com the most for rental cars. I also have gone directly to rental car companies, such as Hertz on Oahu (because they accepted debit cards).

    Years ago I booked at a local travel agency. Then came Cheap Tickets over the phone – still back in the old days,and I found great deals with them.

    Now I only book online (note from Lisa – me too, I use expedia almost exclusively, unless I can use Hawaiian) – not just for the savings, but for the same reason I will book online for this dream trip – because I can more easily get what I want. I can search a site like Hawaiian Airlines to my heart’s content with all sorts of different configurations.

    Logistics out of the way, I am excited to put this itinerary together! First stop…

    Kauai Itinerary – How I Would Plan my Activities on Kauai

    Where I would stay in Kauai: Hotel Choice 1, Hotel 2, Hotel 3

    Los Angeles to Lihue, March 7 – 14, Rental car pickup at the airport.

    Lihue

    Wailua Falls – The famous twin falls featured on Fantasy Island is a four-mile drive out of Lihue.

    Wailua River – Kayak tour up this peaceful river to visit the sacred sites along the river’s banks.

    Air tour of the island with Air Ventures Hawaii. With less environmental impact than a helicopter and views of Na Pali where we’ll see hundreds of waterfalls (coming down from Mt Wailaliali, one of the “wettest spots on Earth”) and Kauai’s miniature Grand Canyon, Waimea Canyon.

    Hamura’s Saimen Stand – When I went to Lihue a couple decades ago with a bunch of other teachers to attend a workshop, they were all very excited about getting saimen at Hamura’s, a little hole-in the wall place on Kress Street.

    Ever since then it is a must-do on Kauai for me. Bob’s not into Asian food, but he’ll like the teriyaki chicken and their famous lilikoi chiffon pie.

    Kauai Museum – Lots of Kauai history here with artifacts, as well as contemporary art.

    Kauai North Shore

    Kilauea Lighthouse and Wildlife Refuge is visited by lots of birds including frigates, boobies and albatross and overlooks a marine preserve. If they still have their “buy a brick” fundraiser, I will buy a memorial brick honoring my grandparents who loved Hawaii, wildlife and this lighthouse.

    Na Pali – Two days here! We’d take the days and camp at the end of the trail but it’s too rugged and too much off a cliff hanger for me. We will though hike to the first beach, stopping at the pretty little waterfalls and stream along the way.

    Even though you climb up hundreds of feet, the trail is wide enough and stable, a family friendly sort of trail with amazing views!

    Lisa’s note – Yes, Na Pali is amazing. You must check it out if you are going to Kauai. Drive up to the lookout or hike some of the trail. There’s even areas to camp here where you have to be dropped off by boat to get there!

    Na Pali Snorkeling Cruise, Makana Charters This is run by an old Kauai family with roots going back to the last kanaka maoli (those of Hawaiian descent) to have farmed in the Na Pali’s Kalaulau Valley.

    We’ll explore sea caves, snorkel in the warm waters of one of the island’s most treasured reefs (Nu’alolo Kai) and learn about legends, local lore and natural history from our guides. I’m sure we will see some humpbacks too. I’m so excited thinking about it!

    Lisa’s Note – The Na Pali Boat tours are the best on the island – if you can only get on one boat on Kauai, it needs to be a na pali tour. There are so many dolphins and turtles in this area – it’s awesome.

    However, there has been a bit of a brouhaha lately with the boats. Because of environmental concerns, many of them have been forced to switch their operations to leaving from Port Allen.

    This makes their trip to the Na Pali Coast a LOT longer. I would probably choose to sail with someone leaving from Hanalei, like Na Pali Catamaran.

    Years ago, when I went we went on the super-fast zodiac rafts that are really close to the water, but those all leave from the other side now too. 🙁

    Ke`e Beach – Near the start of the Na Pali’s Kalaulau Trail, this beach is perfect for snorkeling when calm.

    Along the way we’ll stop at the overlook to Lumahai Beach (the nurses beach in South Pacific. Often “South Pacific” is traced in the sand. Anini Beach a little south of here is very pretty and has calm shallow water on its lagoon side. We’ll swim there if it’s sunny and warm.

    Hanalei – Pastoral with taro patches and a pretty harbor. Every time I see this place the song “Hanalei Moon” plays in my head.

    This is also the Hanalei of “Puff the Magic Dragon.” If the moon is full we will walk along the pier under it. We’ll grab a bite to eat at Tropical Tacos because we both love Mexican food and seafood. We’ll have to also try Hanalei Mixed Plate, a local favorite with the local style Hawaiian foods I like and a hamburger or hot dogs for Bob. Hanalei is on the way to and from Na Pali so we’ll make a couple stops most likely.

    Limahuli Garden and Preserve Haven’t been here yet but the garden but the American Horticultural Society did select this natural botanical garden as best in the U.S. for environmental practices and its rare plant conservation, so it should be interesting. Lots of history too.

    Na Aina Kai – I’m really excited about visiting this garden because it is a wonderful blend of nature and the arts.

    I love the bronze statues with the children and musical instruments that I saw on their website. I want to see all the gardens here – both the formal and wild gardens. The children’s garden too! Will be taking lots of pictures here 🙂 If were getting married in Hawaii, this would be one of my top picks.

    Kauai’s Royal Coconut Coast

    Hotel Coral Reef – I know money isn’t a consideration and this small resort is one of Kauai’s best deals, but I really would love to stay here from what I’ve read about it and viewed on their site.

    It’s Kauai’s oldest hotel, upgraded just a few years ago and has a gorgeous blend of rich wood furnishings and greenery. I appreciate the kitchenette and jacuzzi too. We’ll book the oceanfront king suite and stay here.

    Kapa`a Grocery Run – On our way back to Lydgate Campground we’ll grab a bite to eat at Papayas Natural Foods and add some goodies to the cooler. After the natural food and vegatarian stint though Bob’s going to want a steak – we’ll stop by the Foodland supermarket and get some barbecue fixin’s.

    If we’re here on Wednesday we’ll shop at the Sunshine Market (Kauai’s name for their farmers’ markets). There are produce stands and farmers’ markets on various days around the island, so if we don’t hit this one we’ll stop at some others.

    Coconut Marketplace – I don’t plan to spend a lot of time shopping but I love this outdoor mall. Lots of unique shops, cultural activities, entertainment and good food.

    South Kauai

    Poipu Beach – One of those “best in America beaches.” Golden, and in some areas, pinkish, soft sands, gentle surf, gorgeous sunsets and a good chance of spotting one of Hawaii’s rare and endangered monk seals.

    Grand Hyatt Resort, Koloa, Poipu Rd. – Since money’s not an issue…:-) We’ll stay here a night or two. I’ve strolled around the grounds here but never stayed.

    I love the 1920s-30s architecture, the pool with waterfalls and lush garden settings and can’t wait for Bob and me to toast each other and the sunset from the Seaview Terrace, an oceanfront, open air lounge in a Polynesian setting.

    Indoors we’ll soak up some jazz and atmosphere in Stevenson’s Library (the bar is carved from Koa). We’ll check into a deluxe ocean view room. The rooms reflect Hawaii’s golden era and have beautiful wood décor, greenery, private lanai, over-sized bathtub,

    Dining – Lots of great restaurants in this area, and the town is so pretty at night. We’re not into crowds for the most part, but the Poipu Beach Broiler with its surf theme sounds fun – I’m most interested in their mac nut crusted mahi-mahi, and Bob’s probably going to want the prime rib or a steak.

    Keoki’s Paradise (owned by the same people that bring us Duke’s) also sounds fun. Tiki theme with dining outdoors, tiki torches, and their world famous Hula Pie – which I have never tried yet! Bob will like it to because they have steak and burgers.

    The lagoon, outdoor setting with tiki torches and lush gardens is absolutely beautiful, as are the meal presentations – and the lobster – wow! My dream vacation really isn’t all about dining, so moving along LOL

    Allerton, a National Tropical Botanical Garden was a favorite retreat of Hawaii’s Queen Emma. An artist and an architect maintain the European meets Hawaii grounds. This is a soothing, very lovely place to spend a little time with numerous water features, bronze mermaids and other statues and a significant collection of tropical plants.

    West Kauai

    Waimea Canyon State Park – Hike in the canyon dubbed by Mark Twain, “Grand Canyon of the Pacific. From above it looks like a southwestern scene, but below there’s lots of green, including waterfalls.

    Also visit Kokee Museum, and hike some other trails in the park, breathe in the eculyptis scented cool refreshing air (probably about 60 degrees in March and 40s at night) and enjoy the view from this side of the Na Pali – the way the clouds continually roll in an out, hiding and then revealing the towering velvet green sea cliffs is magical.

    Camp Slogget: We’ll stay here for a night or two. We’ll rent the cabin for privacy and enjoy campfire with other guests. This is super close to Waimea Canyon and the Kokee Museum. There’s also a 1925’s lodge fireplace and dining areas.

    Hanapepe – Friday Art Night if we’re in this area then. Great little town, old plantation homes.

    Oahu Itinerary – How I Would Plan my Activities on Oahu

    Fly, Lihue to Honolulu, Pick up rental car at airport.

    We will stay a few days on Oahu, just long enough to check out some of the cultural sites, do some shopping (sorry Bob), enjoy a luxurious hotel and camp up at Malaekahana. We’ll rent a car but take the Waikiki Trolley to many of the places in Honolulu rather than hassle driving.

    Windward Side

    Friends of Malaekahana Campground – I love this campground! I already know the tent site I want to reserve. It’s ocean front yet secluded in a group of small trees that open up just enough to provide an unobstructed view of the water and beach, which is practically deserted on school days.

    Lanikai Vacation House – We’ll rent a small cottage with a lanai that has an ocean view and twin hammocks 🙂

    This will be in a quiet area and will have a kitchen, bedroom with a pillow top mattress, jacuzzi, ceiling fans, plasma screen TV, barbecue, tropical décor and lots of ambience and comfort because we are going to do lots of relaxing here. Very nice neighborhood here.

    Polynesian Cultural Center – We’ll tour the villages and go to the show and luau. The luau’s not the best but it’s decent and the show is fantastic.

    Waimanalo – I lived in this cowboy town years ago. Now I’ll get to buy some art at Patrick Ching’s Gallery – wonderful horse paintings.

    Byodo-In Temple – In Kaneohe at the foot of the Koolau Mountains, this is a very tranquil place Bob tells me. From what I’ve read about it, I am really looking forward to visiting. It was built to commemorate the first Japanese immigrants and is a Buddhist temple that welcomes those of all faiths.

    “Byodo-In” means “Temple of equality – not to discriminate” There are gardens, several koi ponds and a big “Peace Bell.” I know I will love it here.

    North Shore

    A few minutes up the road from the campground, we’ll visit the surfer/artist/hippy town of Haliewa, grab a bite to eat and do a little shopping (sorry Bob). Waimea Bay might be calm this time of year and if so we’ll swim, if not we’ll watch the surf and relax in the sun a bit.

    Then we’ll dine at Jameson’s by the Sea and enjoy one of those famous North Shore sunsets!

    Honolulu

    Where to Stay in Honolulu – So many choices here! Bob likes infinity pools, so we’ll book an ocean view room for a couple days at the Sheraton Waikiki Hotel. The Helumoa water playground makes me wish I was a kid!

    And they are also known for award-winning cuisine. I’ve always been fascinated with the gracious 1920s charm of the Royal Hawaiian, the “Pink Palace of the Pacific.” So maybe we’ll stay a night here too. It’s at Waikiki Beach but very insulated.

    I`olani Palace – We’ll take the full tour here. It’s a fascinating and very beautiful place.

    King David Kalakaua, a huge patron of the arts and known as the Merrie Monarch, designed the palace. This is where Queen Lili`uokalani spent her last ruling days before the Hawaiian Kingdom was illegally overthrown. Also will watch the Royal Hawaiian Band concert on the lawn.

    Bishop Museum – Lots to see here. The Hawaii exhibits cover the entire line from Polynesian voyagers through modern day Hawaii. The Hawaii in Hollywood exhibit will be fun for Bob and me, and he loves history so we’ll probably spend almost a day here. They have a nice courtyard where we can have lunch.

    U.S.S. Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor. A must-do.

    (Note from Lisa, honestly, I never did do the Arizona Memorial, although we went to the USS Bowfin and the Mighty Mo – which are on the same base – several times. If you have young kids, I definitely recommend the bowfin and mighty mo over the memorial. )

    Waikiki, Honolulu Itinerary Activities

    Outrigger Canoe Rides – This is I think the only place in Hawaii where you can surf the waves on the canoes. The beach boys take care of you and it’s completely safe. No skill required. Other than the canoe rides we probably won’t spend much time on Waikiki beach except for night walks … it’s just too crowded.

    Note from Lisa – I love LOVE Waikiki beach. I would recommend surfing lessons here, and it’s great if you have young kids (the baby beach part). It is crowded, but that never bothered me.

    I’m not a big fan of crowded beaches on the Big Island, but hey, that’s part of Oahu’s charm, is how many people there are. If you don’t find a way to appreciate it, you might not want to go to Oahu.

    Drive up to the Diamond Head Lighthouse and watch the sunset, or hike Diamond Head and bring a picnic – or both!

    Hilton Hawaiian Village – We’ll stroll through the gorgeous gardens, enjoy the art and see the penguins.

    Entertainment! – Bob comes from a very musical family and he in reeealy into listening to music – all kinds if it’s good. I am too, so we’ll catch some of the great shows here like Olomano, Brothers Cazimero and some of the other oldies but goodies.

    Also we’ll attend the Honolulu Symphony. And we’ll see one on my favorite comedians, Frank Delima. Also we’ll book reservations for the Society of 7 show at the Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach hotel.

    Honolulu Magazine says it’s the best show in Waikiki, and it sounds like fun. Mostly I want to see Hawaiian musical acts that I don’t normally get to see on the mainland, and many of Hawaii’s most famous entertainers are either based in Honolulu or regularly perform here, so we’ll check out the calendars.

    Shopping – I’m not super into shopping but will do some shopping at the Ala Moana Mall, International Marketplace, and we’ll go to the Kapiolani Community College’s big farmer’s market. We’ll be taking the trolley around Waikiki and get off to shop when the mood strikes.

    Lisa’s note – a few of the things Cindy has mentioned are included on the go oahu card, so if you might be interested in that, see my go oahu card review here. It’s kind of like a big coupon.

    Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve – Shallow waters over a coral reef makes this an easy place to snorkel and see lots of colorful fish. It’s also where Elvis and his leading lady in Blue Hawaii went for their moonlit swim. I wonder if they are open at night 🙂 ?

    Leeward Side of Oahu

    Wild Dolphin Foundation Tours – Eco friendly and dolphin-friendly, I can trust that if we do get to swim with dolphins its because the dolphins approach us. We’ll get to see dolphins and sea turtles from the boat and learn lots about them. We will likely see whales too since this is March!

    Lisa’s note – Wild Side Tours is also very eco and dolphin friendly – a comparable alternative if you needed one.

    Maui Itinerary – How I Would Plan my Activities on Maui

    Fly Honolulu to Kapalua (Located near Lahaina, serving inter-island flights only), also you can choose Kahului – Pick up rental car at airport

    Lahaina – Whale city!

    Pacific Whale Foundation Whale Watching Ecocruise: I love whales and I like the idea of taking a whale watching cruise that is both eco-friendly and supports this nonprofit. The largest population of the humpbacks that winter in Hawaii like hang out around Maui, and we will see many of these gentle giants on the cruise – probably even swimming under our boat! If you look at the pictures on this site, you will see why I am excited: http://www.pacificwhale.org/

    Pacific Whale Foundation Sunset Cocktail Cruise – This just sounds very romantic, and I love the ocean at this time of day.

    Pacific Whale Foundation Private Charter: If I’ve got my new SLR and lenses by vacation time, we might take this marine wildlife tour also to get some of those shots you miss when on a boat with lots of people. They use a boat for this one that gives a smoother ride too which is why photographers like it.

    Maui Ocean Center: I’ve not been yet and really looking forward to it. This is a state-of-the-art aquarium with a 850,000 gallon aquarium and outdoors exhibits.

    Lahaina Walking Tour: We’ll enjoy walking around this picturesque and historical town.

    Maui Arts and Cultural Center Two of my favorite and the world’s favorite Hawaiian musicians live on Maui – Keali`i Reichel and Keola Beamer – and often perform here as do many other musicians.

    Old Lahaina Luau – This is one the best and most authentic luau in Hawaii. They’ve one at least six Ilima (“Keep it Hawai`i”) awards and have all sorts of other honors.

    Many luau in Hawaii feature other islands, such as Tahiti, but this one tells the story of the Hawaiians using hula, chant and music and moving from ancient to contemporary Hawaiian music and dance. The buffet features both Pacific Rim and traditional Hawaiian foods. I’ve been to community luau but only one commercial luau, so I’ve researched the luau thoroughly and this is one of my top picks.

    Hana Highway – This is a must-do. Bob’s a good driver, so I won’t be too nervous. It’s a beautiful drive I hear and am looking forward to the views and short hikes to waterfalls and views of the beaches, including a black sand beach.

    On the way to Hana Highway we’ll stop at Mana Foods in Paia for organic and island grown picnic treats. At the end of our road trip we’ll go to the general store in Hana to buy souvenir t-shirts and soak up the quiet, small town atmosphere.

    Haleakala – If, and it’s a big IF, we can get up early enough, we’ll drive up to watch the sunrise from the summit. I’d love to see that.

    Upcountry Maui – I love this area! What I remember best are the soft, green pastures, pine trees, miles of eucalyptus and awesome views of the Pacific. The main town up here, Kula is small and friendly. Lots of strawberries, pink protea flowers and other plants and produce you see at the farmer’s markets are grown up here. It’s just a very pretty place.

    Accomodations: We’ll stay at a B&B in upcountry Maui. It’s just so pretty and we’ll enjoy the quiet. We’ll go horseback riding up here and eat lots of strawberries 🙂

    Hyatt Regency at Kaanapali Beach – We’ll spend a few nights here, one of Hawaii’s most romantic resorts. We’ll have a private lanai with cushy twin lounge chaises and a room with Hawaiian décor, ocean view and a king size Plush Grand Bed™ just all those amenities that help you to unwind and enjoy each other, including romantic restaurants with poolside dining.

    The resort integrates Hawaiian culture…from the “Drums of the Pacific” luau to their spa. The spa includes outdoor massages under seaside cabanas and they base their treatments on Hawaiian values such as maluhia (peace) and ikaika (strength), practices like lomi massage and natural Hawaiian botanicals.

    Their Cirque Polynesia show also sounds exciting. The ocean front pools sound really nice too, including one for quiet swims and another with an adventure playground (swinging bridge and more fun). We can also relax in the whirlpool, and this is all right at one of the most gorgeous beaches in Hawaii, Kaanapali Beach. Long stretches of golden sand, sunsets, a boardwalk and lots of ways to relax and have fun.

    Molokai Activities Itinerary

    We’ll take the ferry (more whale watching) to Molokai and spend a few days here on the island’s quiet beaches, and we might take the mule ride to Kalaupapa.

    We’ll enjoy the slower pace of this “most Hawaiian” island and I might try sport fishing with Bob or at least go for the ride. We’ll stay at at the Kepuhi Beach Resort in an ocean view loft suite. Or we might rent a cottage. Either way we will enjoy the star filled skies and old Hawaii here.

    Big Island Itinerary – How I Would Plan my Activities on the Big Island

    Fly from Molokai to Kona (Lisa’s note – I would probably take the ferry back to Maui and then fly to Kona) – Pick up our rental car at the airport.

    Since I lived on the Big Island for about 14 years, I’ll spend the least amount of time here as there are so many other places I’ve not seen yet or only had the opportunity to spend a little time at on the other islands.

    Since Bob has only been to Oahu, I do want to share some of my “second home” with him and there are some really exciting things to do here, along with relaxing.

    Volcano National Park – The Visitor Center with movie about how the island was formed, Kilauea Lodge (if open after renovations) with the lounge overlooking Halemaumau Crater, Jaggar Museum, the walk through the song bird forest and then the lave tube and adjacent cave.

    If Chain of Craters Road is open we’ll drive around the Park. Then we’ll drive over to Volcano Winery and Volcano Village and the art center there. I love it up here as long as it’s not voggy,and it’s usually not. The air is crisp, there are cedar trees, nene geese and lots of song birds.

    Lava Viewing Helicopter Tour – This or the boat tour is the best way to see the lava flows. Sometimes you can see the lava flowing into the sea from the Kalapana Viewing Area, but from the sky you can see much more.

    We’ll go with Blue Hawaiian Helicopter Tours since they are as eco-friendly as you can get with these types of tours, they have a great safety record and National Geographic seems to like them.

    Kapoho – We might rent a vacation home fronting the Kapoho Tide Pools. It’s often sunny here when it’s pouring elsewhere here on the Windward side.

    We can drive from here to the volcano and other places in Puna district, like the hot pond at Ahalanui Park. Really it’s not hot but it’s often warm, and the setting is very pretty. We’ll go on a weekday to avoid crowds.

    The drive here is very pretty with lots of big trees along the road. We’ll stop in Pahoa at Island Natural Foods for some healthy snacks. The Kalapana Lava Viewing is a fun short hike at night, and we might do that too.

    Hilo

    Richardson’s Beach – My favorite beach on the Windward side with black sands and a nice, protected coral reef for snorkeling. We’ll also walk to the back and hike around on the black lava cliffs where the aqua and turquoise waves crash below – awesome views!

    Hilo Downtown – Will go to the famous Hilo Farmer’s Market for island fresh foods. We might find some nice handmade crafts here too. We’ll walk around downtown, stop for lunch at one of the many restaurants, check out the book and map store and stop at the tsunami museum. Orchids – Bob and I both love orchids and Hilo has lots of them! We’ll shop around at some of the nurseries and maybe the big one the tour buses stop at up by Volcano. We’ll learn what we can and try our hands with them at home.

    Merrie Monarch Festival – We’ll be here for the parade and some of the competition. There’s also a huge crafts fair at the stadium where they have the hula. This is a really big competition with hula halau coming from all around the world to compete.

    Mauna Kea – View the sunset from above the clouds, and then star gaze. The tour provides hot cocoa and jackets since it’s very cold up here.

    Hamakua Coast

    This is a beautiful drive, probably almost as amazing as Hana. We’ll stop at Akaka Falls. Very pretty walk to the viewing area.

    Waimea

    We’ll go horseback riding at Parker Ranch and tour the museum here. Will have a good steak dinner in this paniolo town and check out the art galleries. I hope to find a Hawaiian quilt to bring home. We’ll also take an ag tour with Merriman’s Restaurant and sample island honey, vanilla and other yummy farm fresh Big Island foods.

    Kohala

    From Waimea we’ll drive down the hill to one of my favorite beaches in all of Hawaii, Hapuna. We’ll enjoy the warm, turqoise waters and I’m renting a boogie board! (If the waves are small).

    Bamboo Restaurant – After watching the sun set at Hapuna we’ll drive up to the Bamboo Restaurant in North Kohala for Pacific Rim cuisine and Hawaiian slack key.

    Lots of ambience here – “Old Hawaii” setting and they support local farmers.

    Kohala Accomodations – Will have to toss a coin…or two….

    The Four Seasons at Hualalai This is a gorgeous resort that reflects Hawaii’s natural beauty. It has a wonderful cultural center and six beach-side pools. The spa has won numerous awards.

    Mauna Lani – This is also a very Hawaiian, culturally sensitive resort. It’s built around an open air, tropical atrium and blends well with the historical environment, including ancient fish ponds. The resort faces two white sand beaches, one that is usually calm. There’s an outdoor, thatched roof spa too.

    Mauna Kea – Also culturally and environmentally sensitive, this resort fronts a very pretty beach. Conde Nast named it twice “Best beach in the world.” It’s a crescent white sand beach with calm waters and sea turtles. If we don’t stay here we’ll drive over one morning. They limit the visitors from outside the hotel to about 30 per day to protect the beache’s pristine sands and preserve the coral reef.

    Kailua-Kona

    Deep sea fishing. I’ve never been. Bob would love to go, and I’m sure I’d have fun just being out on the ocean and watching him catch a big one. Kona’s like the deep sea fishing capital of the world.

    Pu`uhonua o Honaunau (Place of Refuge) This is a nice place to take a walk and enjoy a picnic. It was once a sanctuary where those kapu breakers could escape punishment. The re-created coastal Hawaiian village is interesting, and there’s a pretty lagoon.

    April 7 Kona Airport to LAX

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