Explore Hawaii’s paradise islands of Maui and Kauai for a once in a lifetime adventure
With incredible scenery, friendly people and golden beaches, Hawaii truly is a wonderland.
It can be hard to know where to start, though, thanks to the eight main islands and multiple smaller ones.
Sample some of this American state’s best bits by exploring stunning Maui then hopping on a flight to gorgeous Kauai.
Aloha, dream vacay!
Road-trip goals
The winding Road to Hana is one of Maui’s biggest draws, and it’s easy to see why.
There are beautiful sandy coves brimming with turtles, incredible waterfalls, breathtaking views, lush forests, cute little bridges and a chance to peek over Oprah’s garden fence.
Although be warned, the 52-mile road includes 617 hairpin bends.
So, if you don’t fancy driving it yourself, book Robert’s Heavenly Hana Tour £145 per person (Robertshawaii.com).
Epic sunrises
The 1am wake-up call isn’t for the faint-hearted, but once you’ve put on all your layers you’ll be ready to witness one of the world’s most awe-inspiring sunrises with Tour Maui’s Haleakala Sunrise Tour, from £130 per person (Tourmaui.com).
You’ll be transported to the summit of the volcano in Haleakala National Park (one of Hawaii’s most sacred spots), where you’ll see the place the astronauts trained for the 1969 Moon Landing.
For even more bragging points, board Kai Kanani’s Sunrise Deluxe Snorkel tour, from £155 per person.
You’ll snorkel in Molokini Crater – created after a volcanic explosion 150,000 years ago – just as the sun comes up (Kaikanani.com).
Thanks to its protected status, there’s plenty to see in and around the crystal waters, including the famous (and sometimes elusive!) green sea turtle.
Aquatic adventures
Water babies can get their fill in Kauai with two of the best aquatic tours.
First up, paddle your tandem kayak up the Wailua River, hike through the rainforest and enjoy lunch (and a refreshing dip) at the Wailua Waterfall with Outfitters Kauai, £85 for a half-day tour (Outfitterskauai.com).
Then, if you dare, embark on an adrenalin-filled Raft Na Pali Snorkel Adventure along the Na Pali Coast.
You’ll zip in and out of water caves, spot dolphins and turtles, snorkel on the coral reef and experience one of the world’s most breathtaking coastlines up close.
Experiences cost from £130 per person for half a day (Napali.com).
Rare wildlife spotting
Head to Kilauea Lighthouse on the north shore of Kauai, entrance £8, to get views for days at Hawaii’s most northern point (Kauai.com/kilauea-lighthouse).
The area is surrounded by a wildlife refuge, where the ocean cliffs and grassy slopes provide habitats for rare birds including the laysan albatross and the red-footed booby (no laughing at the back).
The coast also provides a haven for seals and between December and April, you might even be lucky enough to spot migrating humpback whales.
Sushi with sea views
Four wheels are essential if you want to make the most of your time on Kauai island.
Head to one of the gorgeous sandy beaches along the 17-mile Na Pali coastline. Deli and supermarket Pono Market in Kapaa is a great pit stop for a
poke lunch.
Park up in Hanalei for a swim in the beautiful bay and a spot of shopping in the cool boutiques.
Make the colourful Kauai Shores your base – with two pools, a private beach and morning yoga on offer, it’s seriously dreamy.
Plus, the Lava Lava Beach Club serves up some of the finest food on the island complete with sea views (Lavalavabeachclub.com).
Take your pick from ribs, £13, sashimi, £15, and juicy burgers, from £15. Double rooms cost from £116 (Kauaishoreshotel.com).
Jurassic Park vibes
Kauai has provided the backdrop for many of our favourite films – think Pirates Of The Caribbean, King Kong and Hook.
But perhaps the most iconic is Jurassic Park.
Remember the opening scene in the first movie with the waterfall? Yep, that was filmed right here.
Enjoy a blockbuster adventure of your own on an hour-long tour with Jack Harter’s Helicopters.
As you descend through jungle valleys and swoop over jaw-dropping canyons, you can almost hear the T-Rex’s roar!
Flights cost £220 per person based on four sharing (Helicopters-kauai.com).
Laid-back Lahaina
Lahaina on Maui’s south shore has a pretty main street that’s home to surf shops and hidden cafes (we recommend Belle Surf Cafe for excellent coffee and crepes, and Fleetwood’s on Front Street – a bar and restaurant owned by Fleetwood Mac legend and islander Mick Fleetwood).
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Join Trilogy’s Deluxe Kaanapali Sunset Sail aboard a luxury catamaran, and wash down delicious nibbles with perfectly mixed cocktails while you enjoy views of the island.
Trips cost £70 per person (Sailtrilogy.com).
Just another busy day in paradise!
Visit Hawaii
Weather: 27C
Flight time: 17hrs 55 mins (indirect)
Time difference: -10 hours
Currency: US dollars
Return flights from London to Maui via San Francisco start from £1,150 (United.com).
Visit Gohawaii.com for info.
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