8 Hawaiian highlights

By Lauren Ferrone
Published: Wednesday, June 19, 2019

Pristine islands, epic surf and the hula – Hawaii is a haven of beauty and oozes cool vibes. Here are 8 ways to spend your days lazing about this slice of paradise.

1. See Hawaii from new heights

Splashing about in turquoise water and basking beachside on white (or black) sandy shores are a couple of ways to enjoy Hawaii’s islands. For a more exclusive look, hop aboard a helicopter to see parts inaccessible by foot. The different perspective will take your breath away when you see the ever-changing colours and landscape from above. Prefer something a little closer to the ground? Island-hop by ship. You’ll be able to take in all the natural beauty around you while enjoying onboard activities and entertainment.

Take to the skies to see aerial views of black beaches and turquoise waters.

2. Witness an active volcano

Volcanoes in Hawaii emerged from the sea millions of years ago. If you’ve been to Hawaii before, you’ll notice how the 2018 eruption changed the landscape of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Venture through the park to see the aftermath and, occasionally, the flow of one of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kilauea. You may even see bright red lava pouring into the ocean and sporadic lava fireworks at night.

Lava from Kilauea volcano entering ocean, Big Island in Hawaii.

Lava from a volcano on Big Island in Hawaii oozes into the ocean.

3. Indulge in the basics

Two scoops of white rice, macaroni salad and an entrée – simple but, nevertheless, delicious. Food is definitely at the heart of Hawaiian culture. When people settled on the Hawaiian Islands, they brought their local fruits and vegetables with them. The tropical climate allowed all traditional Hawaiian foods to grow in abundance. For a true taste of tradition, try Poi – a sticky paste made by mashing taro root. Ancient Hawaiians used to eat taro – a low-calorie staple – with most meals.

Outdoor Hawaiian buffet with people serving traditional island food.

Indulge your tastebuds in traditional island food while in Hawaii.

4. Embrace tradition

Forget partying in Ibiza. When you’re in Hawaii, check out a luau show – a Hawaiian feast featuring lively music and vibrant cultural performances. In ancient Hawaii, a luau is a feast to celebrate special occasions. Called an ‘ahaaina’ – aha meaning gathering and ‘aina’ meaning meal, as a guest at a luau, you’ll experience an authentic feast. E hauʻoli – that means ‘enjoy’ in Hawaiian.

A group of women doing a traditional Hawaiian dance during a luau, Hawaii.

Witness a traditional Hawaiian dance ceremony by the beach.

6. Get amongst nature

From cascading waterfalls to active volcanoes, Hawaii is home to spectacular geographic wonders and landscapes. Venture out onto the legendary road to Hana, with hairpin curves, lush forests, plunging cliffs, the glistening ocean and picturesque waterfalls. Spanning more than 100km, the route is surrounded by lush, tropical rainforest to keep you spellbound the whole journey.

Tropical waterfall gushes down in Hawaii.

Stumble upon cascading waterfalls on the road to Hana in Hawaii.

5. Peer into Pearl Harbor

Take time out away from the beach to visit Pearl Harbor – one of the most historic landmarks in the United States. Pay your respects to the 2,335 soldiers and 68 civilians who fought in World War II at the USS Arizona Memorial, and tour other Pearl Harbor sites and museums. Don’t forget to leave your bags back at the hotel as they’re not permitted at Pearl Harbor.

One of the most historic landmarks in the United States – Pearl Harbor.

7. Ode to Oahu

Of Hawaii’s 8 main islands, Oahu stands out as one of the most beautiful. And as the third largest of the islands, travellers are spoilt for choice when it comes to white sandy beaches and outdoor adventure. Try stand-up paddle boarding at Ala Moana Beach Park, near Waikiki. Here, the water is protected by an outer reef, making it calm every day of the year.

Oahu island is known for being calm every day of the year.

8. Wander around Waikiki

It’s hard not to single out Waikiki Beach as one of Hawaii’s best. While sunbathers scatter the shore by day, waterside cocktail bars are abuzz at night. If you’re staying in Waikiki, lucky you. Every hotel room is just 2 or 3 blocks away from the ocean – that’s if it’s not directly on the beach.

Waikiki Beach with buildings lit up at night.

In Waikiki, every hotel room is just a few blocks from the ocean – or directly on the beach.

Head to Hawaii

Whether you want to relax, take flight or simply surf, an RAA travel expert can help plan your perfect Hawaiian escape.

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