Located in the middle of the Pacific is Hawaii. Comprised of six tropical islands, Hawaii is one of the most picturesque and breathtaking destinations in the world. The colossal mountains and never ending sea make Hawaii an idyllic setting. Aside from many outdoor activities, Hawaii is home to some unique attractions, such as the only rainforest zoo within the United States. Many famous beaches are houses on Hawaii’s shores, such as Kailua Beach and Waikiki Beach.

Most vacationers to Hawaii find themselves in Honolulu, on the island of Oahu. This island is known for the multitude of resort accommodations and great variety of activities. Honolulu is home to the iconic Waikiki Beach, immortalized in many movies and songs. If you’re looking to learn, the Waikiki Aquariums and the Honolulu Zoo are located on this island. Pearl Harbor is located on the island, and is home to the USS Arizona Memorial that stands for those who died in World War II. If looking to breathe in the fresh, tropical air, visit the Honolulu Botanical Gardens or the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. Hanauma Bay offers trails that allow you to view untouched flora and fauna, while protecting the marine life that calls its shore home.

Maui is another island in the Hawaiian archipelago, and another popular destination for tourists. While Maui is home to the world’s largest national park, Haleakala, much of this island’s best features can be found the beach. The best surfing and windsurfing can be found at Ho’okipa Beach Park. Those looking for water adventures may be interested in the Molokini Snorkel Cruise, which takes visitors to a partially submerged volcanic crater that many unique and exotic marine creatures call home. If here between the months of December and May, visitors can join humpback whale cruises to see these gentle creatures at play.

Those looking to vacation on Oahu should look no further than the Doubletree Alan Waikiki, which offers beautiful, cozy rooms and excellent customer service for a very affordable fee. It is home to Padovani’s Restaurant, and is within walking distance of Waikiki Beach. On Maui, the Pineapple Inn is a great choice. It is small, with only four rooms, each with a kitchenette, in this cottage. This Inn, however, has unrivaled views of the ocean and tropical gardens. Whichever island you choose, these are sure to grant you the ultimate comfort while on your Hawaiian vacation.

Aloha to everyone!

Scuba diving is, by far, one of the most fun activities you can take part in while vacationing in Hawaii. With various diving companies and sites located in the islands, it would be silly to ignore the great opportunity your vacation gives you. Whether you are an expert or novice, you may find that some of Hawaii’s greatest treasures are located under the sparkling waves.

Why dive in Hawaii?

Hawaii is the most isolated place in the world, located more than 2,000 miles from the nearest continent. The Hawaiian archipelago is made up of more than one hundred islands, however, the most prominent are Kauai, Ni’ihau, Lanai, Molokai, Maui, Kahoolawe, Oahu, and the Big Island. Of these islands, the four islands that tourists most flock to are Maui, Oahu, Kauai as well as Hawaii.

Each of these islands are as unique as the marine life that flock to the coral reefs near its shores. More than 25% of all marine life has roots in Hawaii, so you know you’re seeing nothing short of magical. Molokai, Lanai, and Ni’ihau are frequented less by visitors, but offer the most unique marine life out of all the islands. Lanai has unique lava formations that consist of archways, tunnels and pinnacles for you to explore while diving. Kahoolawe is another diving site, however, a charter diving boat is needed if you want to explore its shores. These islands, however, are recommended to more experienced divers.

Diving sites in Hawaii

Hawaii is a perfect place to go diving. Thanks to its warm and pristine waters.

With warm, clear waters, Hawaii is definitely the perfect place to go diving. The island of Oahu has offshore lava formations, grottoes, shipwrecks and a plane that you could explore. Among this island’s underwater treasures are the brilliantly colored schools of fish and turtles. Also perfect for any level is the island of Maui, located east of Oahu.

While inaccessible in the winter, the summer opens up the waters of Kauai, which are both pristine and rugged, perfect for anyone with a heart for adventure.

There are many diving sites to choose from while in Hawaii, however, it depends on your skill level, preferences, and needs. It is guaranteed that by scuba diving in Hawaii, you’ll see some of nature’s greatest treasures.

North, South, East and West don’t have a lot of meaning on the island of Oahu. Sure, there are some references to these points-of-the-compass: The North Shore is famous for its big wave surf and West Oahu is booming with development, but you’re much more likely to hear the term Windward Oahu than you are East Oahu and we haven’t even begun discussing the local terms for direction of mauka, makai, ewa and Diamond Head. Fight Club movie

North, south, east, and west don’t have much meaning on Oahu. While some of its famous spots are aptly named for their location, such as the North Shore, or the booming West Oahu, it is likely you won’t hear the typical compass directions. Instead, you will likely hear mauka, makai, ewa, and Diamond Head.

Oahu’s geography plays a large part in the usage of these terms. As is obvious, Oahu is an island that juts out of the ocean, gradually moving from the coastline to a series of mountain ridges. Using Diamond Head as the most prominent navigation tool, many who grew up on the islands utilize the island’s natural features as a guide. Directions on the island are simple: Mauka means towards the mountains while Makai means towards the sea. As for Diamond Head, you can either turn towards it, or away from it. There is no messing with moss on trees or looking for the sun to rise or set. These natural features made wandering around Oahu easy.

To those who grew up on Oahu, these directions are simple. Explaining them to visitors, however, can be a difficult task. Mauka and Makai changes depending on which side of the island you happen to be on. If in Honolulu, Makai would be south, while Mauka would be north, that is if you’re facing the mountains. The opposite would be true in Kailua, as Makai would be north and Mauka would be south, if you’re facing the sea. If you are facing Mauka (mountains), and the sea is behind you with Diamond Head on your right, you would be on the Ewa side. If all the previous conditions were true, except Diamond Head was on your left, you would be on the Diamond Head side. While confusing, you can pick up on it quickly. After all, if you truly do get lost, you could always follow the ocean until you find something familiar. That, or you could ask any local, and they’ll graciously lead you in the right direction.

Hawaii is the epitome of a beautiful and relaxing destination for thousands of vacationers. Dont get discouraged by this amount, however, as there are ways around the crowded beaches and busy streets. You will find that there are ways around the clusters of people throughout Hawaii, by choosing a vacation rental over a hotel.

Many have never had this experience, and if youre one of them, make your next Maui vacation the time to rent a vacation home. You can find vacation beach houses, cottages, villas and condos online. While Maui is a large and extraordinary island, narrow your range to Lahaina, a historic town located on the islands west side.

Lahaina is known for its attention to history as well as its breathtaking natural beauty. With authentic luaus and Front Street, youll want to be as close to Lahaina as possible, while enjoying all its visual delights. A private vacation rental, with a quiet patio, unique architecture, beach access, will ease every aspect of your vacation, so that all of Lahaina is open to you.

Lahaina vacation rentals are available in varying shapes and sizes. Large traveling groups will be delighted with the many spacious vacation rental options. The many bedrooms and great amounts of living space will allow groups to spend time together, and have a sanctuary apart. With many bathrooms, there will be no need to fight over the shower. Vacation homes are also perfect for lovers looking for time away. A romantic cabin on the coast will make the perfect refuge from everyday life.

Separate sections and a plush master bedroom arent the only benefits of staying in a vacation rental. Many of these rentals are in locations with quick and easy access to hot spots, such as the beach or downtown. Shuttling from place to place will not be necessary unless youre looking to explore the most remote regions of Maui. Waking up to the warm sun on your face as it playfully peeks through the leaves of the tropical trees is heavenly. With the waves coyly nipping at your toes, youll find that your vacation rental is a piece of heaven on earth.

If a taste of paradise is what youre looking for, visit vacation rental sites that provide pictures, information, maps and deals about Lahaina, or any place in Hawaii youd like to go.

There is a little pocket in the Pacific that is virtually untouched and mostly undiscovered. This little secret is Kihei, located on Hawaii’s island of Maui, where you can visit any time of the year. Rentalo offers many Kihei vacation rentals, which include hotels and condos. With so many options, one of them is certain to suit your needs, so start planning your vacation to this untouched haven.

Kihei is located along Maui’s west coast, and is definitely one of Hawaii’s best secrets. It rarely has visitors, so crowded beaches are never problems here. You can find your own stretch of beach and enjoy the warm sun in this stretch of Maui. The temperatures average between 75 to 85 degrees, ideal for any outdoor activities you have in mind.

Even the clouds understand the magic of Kihei. How? They stay away! Kihei averages less than 12 inches of rain each year, so heading to the beach everyday isn’t out of the question. Feel free to relax on these beaches, as they are considered the safest in Hawaii. Don’t forget to venture into the water, its temperature of 80 degrees Fahrenheit promises not to scare off the intrepid swimmers. You can stay at the beaches until sunset, where the sky blazes orange for a small window of perfection. Another option, however, is choosing a Kihei vacation rental that opens into the ocean stage, where the sun’s fading rays dance until the night’s curtains begin to fall.

While the ocean is enticing, there are other activities in Kihei that are equally as alluring. You may wake up and find yourself wanting to explore the thick, green forests that may hide beautiful waterfalls. Maybe you’d like to ride through Kihei on horseback, with the wind caressing your hair, that is available as well. If you chose to stay in a Kihei resort or hotel, Rentalo makes booking your stay easy and simple. In your lodging, you can recharge for another day of endless sunshine.

Our site can assist you in finding a Kihei lodging that suits your needs. Do you want to be pampered in a resort or would you like to be at home in a tropical playground? Look through our listings, and you’re sure to find a vacation rental that suits your needs. Get ready to discover Kihei for yourself.

Many dream of experiencing a Hawaiian cruise, after all, very few adventures can amount to sailing out into the Pacific Ocean towards paradise. Far removed from the rest of the world, Hawaii is that paradise, and it’s up to you to get there.

Golden mornings, sparkling sands, and ever swaying palm trees welcome those who arrive to Hawaii on a cruise. There is nothing better than enjoying a refreshing drink, as the sun dips into the waves on Hawaii’s coastlines.

U.S. and Canadian citizens will find many seaports scattered along North America’s west coast that offer cruises to Hawaii. While there are many ports, the main ones include Vancouver, Seattle and San Diego.
Hawaii cruise vacations are round-trip adventures on sea that last 15-18 days. These cruises often stop at one or two ports scattered between the islands. One-way cruises are also options, where vacationers can fly home after arriving in Hawaii. There are also companies that offer extended Hawaiian cruises that are 25-30 days long. Extended cruises are suggested to those who want to take in more of the Hawaiian sun, and are looking to spend time on the other islands of Maui, Lanai, Oahu and Kauai.

Hawaii cruises offer onshore adventures that will satiate even the most restless travelers. You can explore, by foot, the dormant volcano of Mauna Kea on the Big Island. Another option is taking the Circle of Fire tour by helicopter. Near Knoa’s port is the Kona Cloud Forest botanical walk, where there are several types of indigenous plant life. There is also a submarine that takes passengers down to explore 25 acres of coral reef.

A Hawaii cruise that stops on Oahu will give you access to Pearl Harbor and the bustling and beautiful city of Honolulu. In Lanai, you may be able to glimpse magnificent whales while on Kauai, the island’s rainforests are available for your exploring. Between days of relaxation and amazing outdoor adventures, you’ll find that Hawaii cruises may be the dream vacation for you.

The Top 10 Hawaii Beaches are the perfect mixture of sun and fun for travelers and families looking for the best resort experience. Beach resorts should be a memorable experience, and the best memories are when everyone is enjoying themselves. Families are looking for the best combination of surf, sand and sea while surfers are looking for waves as much as divers are looking for reefs. The best beaches have all these activities in one place, guaranteeing everyone’s fun.

If you’re looking for services like restrooms, telephones and picnic areas, the following beaches are perfect. Many of them have great surfing in certain seasons and snorkeling in others. There are also grassy shady areas, to provide shade from the sun’s heat. Most beaches will be able to assist visitors with water equipment rentals such as snorkels and boogie boards. Following is the list of Hawaii’s top beaches for families, couples and adventurers alike.

1. Lanikai Beach

2. The North Shore

3. Punalu’u Beach

4. Hookipa Beach

5. Lahaina Beach

6. Poipu Beach

7. Kauna ‘oa Beach

8. Kaanapali Beach

9. Honaunau Bay

10. Waikiki Beach

1. Lanikai is situated in Kailua, on the island of Oahu. Located off Kailua Road, this beach is extraordinarily beautiful with turquoise waves and bright sand. Off Lanikai’s shores, there are two bird sanctuaries, Mokumanu and Mokulua. This beach is the audience to gorgeous sunrises each morning, perfect for beginning your day in the waves.

2. The North Shore is the umbrella term for three extraordinary areas on Oahu’s northern shores. Waimea Bay plays two roles throughout the year, as the calm summer seas open the stage for ferocious winter waves excellent for surfing. There is also the Pipeline which is a surfer magnet, and where onlookers can watch experts harness the powers of the waves. Lastly, there is Sunset Beach which, as its name suggests, is the prime location for awe-inspiring sunsets. Although the North Shore is primarily catered to surfers, visitors can golf, go on various fishing adventures, take part in shark tours or whale watch.

3.Punalu’u Beach is located off Highway 11 on the Big Island’s southern shore. With tall coconut trees and black sand beaches, this place is extraordinarily memorable. Punalu’u means “diving spring” as native Hawaiians once retrieved water here using gourds. With this in mind, it is no surprise a freshwater wading pool is available at this beach park. This location is best known for the endangered green sea turtles here, and snorkeling off the shore is the best way to see these protected species at play in their natural habitat.

4. Hookipa, located off Hana Highway in North Maui, is best known for it’s world-class windsurfing competitions. Not everyone is an expert at windsurfing, but are invited to watch. The barbeque picnic areas have a great view of Hookipa’s rocky and sandy shore. The beach has showers, kiosks and payphones, perfect for hosting the Aloha Classic, Red Bull surfing competition and the Maui Sports Foundation events.

5. Lahaina Beach is on West Maui and the town is full of ancient history with a long tradition of whaling. Many people are familiar with the wedding ceremonies and famous Luau dances. The Luau dance is the traditional Hawaiian dance that celebrates the unique island culture with the hula dance, flower lei ceremonies and roasted pig dining make any evening a memorable experience.

6. Poipu Beach on Kauai’s southern shore is well known for its calm water. Photographers flock here to capture the tranquil beauty of this beach’s waters. With many shallow areas and lifeguards, this beach is safe for families with children looking to swim together. There are also picnic areas available for those looking to enjoy a meal in the sun.

7. Kauna’oa Beach is a large sandy located on Hawaii’s Big Island. With so much space, there are many activities that you can enjoy, such as building sand castles, playing volleyball, swimming and snorkeling. You won’t ever worry about the waves as there is a rock reef protecting the shore. Golfers may enjoy the greens at the nearby Mauna Kea Golf Course.

8. Ka’anapali Beach is one of Maui’s best beaches partly because many resorts are located on its shore. The concrete path that frames the shore is perfect for sunrise strolls and sunset saunters. This beach is great for visitors as there are lifeguards, restrooms and showers available here. While this place is home to great surf, those who prefer calm waters can venture to Black Rock for fantastic snorkeling. Adults with children will be thrilled at the many children’s programs available through many of the resorts.

9. Honaunau Bay is located on the Big Island. This particular beach is called the City of refuge as ancient tradition designated this area as a haven for warriors and law-breakers. Many fish call this bay refuge as well, hiding around the coral reefs situated near smooth lava rock. Scuba divers flock here because of the vibrant marine life, and with dolphins that sometimes play in the clear waters, it’s easy to get excited.

10. The iconic Waikiki Beach is located On Oahu’s southern shore. The beach of beaches is surrounded by many hotels and Kapiolani Park. While crowded, this beach is popular because of its quick access to many beach amenities. These include lifeguards, sand and reef areas, phones, showers, restrooms, and phones. Outrigger canoes can be rented if you’re looking to glide over the waves, and surf lessons are available.