Hawaii Primer

I have had a lot of inquiries about Hawaii recently and decided to create a Hawaii Primer about Oahu, Maui, The Big Island and Kauai to help my clients decide which island or islands they wish to visit and I am sharing this revised version here. Contact me and I will be happy to send you the complete document.

Oahu:

Sometimes called “The Gathering Place,” Oahu certainly lives up to its name. The third largest Hawaiian island is home to the majority of Hawaii’s diverse population, a fusion of East and West cultures rooted in the values and traditions of the Native Hawaiian people. It’s this fundamental contrast between the ancient and the modern that makes discovering Oahu — from bustling city life to laidback surf towns — so enjoyable. 
Beaches:
Oahu’s beaches are a true taste of paradise—whether you’re looking for high adventure on the sea, gentle waves for your first surfing lesson, a romantic sunset view or a family-friendly swimming spot. While you might already be familiar with world-famous Waikiki Beach and the high-octane winter waves of the North Shore, there’s even more to discover along the island’s 112 miles of coastline. There are North Shore Beaches, Windward Coast Beaches (Eastside), South Shore Beaches and Leeward Coast Beaches (Westside).
Land Activities:
Oahu’s diverse tropical terrain, unmatched ocean views and wide range of activities will bring out your adventurous side. Hike to the top of the iconic volcanic crater Leahi (Diamond Head) for a panoramic view of Waikiki. Crisscross the picturesque countryside on horseback or on an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) at Kualoa Ranch. Play golf well into the evening on a long Hawaiian summer day. Stroll or run the popular paths of Ala Moana Beach Park, Kapiolani Park in Waikiki or the Diamond Head Loop from the Waikiki Bandstand to Leahi via Monsarrat Avenue. Whether you’re hiking, biking, driving, golfing or riding, you can hit the ground running on your visit to Oahu. And, last, but definitely not least experience a luau during an evening celebrating Hawaiian and Polynesian traditions along with a feast of traditional foods like Kalua pig and poi (taro). Oahu is full of history, includeing the Bishop Museum, Pearl Harbor National Memorial and the National Memorial Cemetary of the Pacific, just to name a few.
Water Activities:
With endless golden beaches, inviting blue waves and balmy weather, you can play in the water all year long on Oahu. If you’ve always dreamed of hanging ten on a long board, Waikiki Beach is the spot to learn. Duke Kahanamoku and the Waikiki Beach Boys popularized the art of hee nalu (wave sliding) in the waters of Waikiki Beach during the early 1900s, and it’s still a perfect place to take your first surfing lesson today. Beyond surfing, you can explore the ocean by taking a group outrigger canoe ride off of Waikiki Beach. If you’re looking for something fun for the whole family to do, try snorkeling and swimming at one of Oahu’s many beautiful beaches. Take a sunset cruise or sailing excursion and you might spot a humpback breach during whale watching season (December through May). Sports fisherman can also charter a boat and fish for Pacific Blue Marlin, Ahi (yellowfin tuna), Ono (wahoo) or Mahimahi. Satisfy your sporty side with other water activities in Oahu, including jet-skiing, parasailing, wind surfing, kite surfing, wakeboarding and bodyboarding (boogie boarding). Stand up paddle boarding (SUP)—where surfers stand on a larger board using a paddle to maneuver—has also become a popular alternative to surfing in the islands. With so many exciting activities, you'll understand why adventure thrives in the deep blue Pacific surrounding Oahu.

Maui 

Maui, known also as “The Valley Isle,” is the second largest Hawaiian island. The island beloved for its world-famous beaches, the sacred Iao Valley, views of migrating humpback whales (during winter months), farm-to-table cuisine and the magnificent sunrise and sunset from Haleakala. It’s not surprising Maui has been voted "Best Island in the U.S." by Condé Nast Traveler readers for more than 20 years.
Beaches:
With 120 miles of coastline, Maui boasts over 30 miles of beautiful beaches. On these world famous shores you’ll find white, black and red sand beaches, renowned surfing and windsurfing spots as well as some of the best beaches in the world to simply swim, snorkel and sunbathe. Many are easily accessible beach parks with lifeguards, picnic facilities and restrooms. Others are undeveloped, "secret spots" found off the beaten path. Maui Beaches include South Maui, West Maui, and North Shore Maui.
Land Activities:
Maui’s diverse geography provides a sprawling canvas for a variety of land adventures—that is, if you can pull yourself away from the incredible beaches. Become a paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) for a day on a horseback ride through Upcountry Maui. Take in a magnificent sunset from the summit of Haleakala. Soar through the jungle on an adrenaline-pumping zipline adventure. Or simply spend a relaxing day perusing shops and art galleries in Lahaina. Historic sites include Haleakal National Park, Lahaina Historic Trail and Hana, just to name a few.
Water Activities:
Maui’s magnificent cobalt-blue waves and dreamy beaches will beckon you to play in the water. Whether you want to spend a leisurely day swimming at Kaanapali Beach or embark on a snorkeling or scuba adventure near the island of Molokini, Maui offers an enticing selection of water activities. Treat yourself to a surf lesson and learn Hawaii’s quintessential water sport, spy humpback  from Lahaina Harbor during the winter months or take in the heavenly island views on a ferry trip to Lanai. Above the surface or below, exploring Maui’s magical waters is one of the best ways to discover the island’s unique beauty.

The Big Island (The Island of Hawaii)

The island of Hawaii is the youngest and largest island in the Hawaiian chain. Nearly twice as big as all of the other Hawaiian Islands combined (hence, its nickname, “Big Island”), its sheer size is awe-inspiring. You can travel through all but four of the world's different climate zones here, ranging from Wet Tropical to Polar Tundra, a result of the shielding effect and elevations of the massive volcanoes Maunakea and Maunaloa. From the many geological features at awaii Volcanoes National Park to the snow-capped heights of Maunakea; from the lush valleys of the Hilo and Hamakua Coasts to the jet-black sands of Punaluu , the island of Hawaii is an unrivaled expression of the power of nature. However you decide to experience the island, it is sure to leave you humbled! Check out the island of Hawaii's regions to explore this vast island. 
Beaches of Hawaii:
The island of Hawaii features some of the most picturesque and varied beach landscapes in the world. From white sand, to black sand beaches (and a few other colors in-between), visitors can see first-hand how volcanic activity has shaped and influenced the beauty of Hawaii. From beautiful resort beaches, to rugged, off-the-beaten-path sands that are wild, remote and rewarding — there is much to explore. There Hilo Beaches. Kohala, Beaches, Kona Beaches and Puna Beaches.
Land Activities:
There’s no shortage of adventure on Hawaii — the island has over 4,028 square miles of land (and it’s still growing!). Visitors enjoy biking, and horseback riding amongst the island's waterfalls, beaches and volcanic landscapes. With so many microclimates to experience, you can stargaze on the sometimes snow-covered slopes of Maunakea, explore the botanical gardens of the Hamakua Coast, or play on the world-class golf courses of the Kohala Coast. There are also unforgettable hiking trails throughout the island. In Hawaii Volcanoes National , visitors can hike through the Nahuku (Thurston Lava Tube), Devastation Trail or the challenging Crater Rim trail, which encircles the summit of Kilauea Caldera. 
Water Activities:
With more miles of coastline than any other Hawaiian island, the island of Hawaii is a haven for marine life. The calm and clear waters of Kona are shielded from the winds by Maunaloa, making it a perfect place to snorkel, scuba dive or go on a manta ray dive at night. These waters are full of interesting marine life from honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles) to deep-sea game fish—which makes Kona a popular destination for sports fishing. Of course you’ll also find kohola (whales) that visit every winter, as well as the sperm whales, pygmies and false killer whales that are here year-round. If you’re not interested in kayaking, surfing or parasailing, the beautiful beaches of the island of Hawai are a great place to simply relax and dip your toes in the sparkling water. Experience a snorkel cruise with Fair Wind and always remember if you are exploring Hawaii’s underwater world, remember how fragile the ocean environment is and malama kai (take care of the ocean). More than a quarter of the sea life present in Hawaii is found nowhere else in the world so please don’t touch the living coral or the animals and plants surrounding it. Even though the honu look friendly, remember they are an endangered species and touching them could harm them. Have fun in the water, but with all marine life, keep a respectful distance—for their safety and yours.

Kauai

Kauai is Hawaii's fourth largest island and is sometimes called the "Garden Island," which is an entirely accurate description. The oldest and northernmost island in the Hawaiian chain is draped in emerald valleys, sharp mountain spires and jagged cliffs aged by time and the elements. Centuries of growth have formed tropical rainforests, forking rivers and cascading waterfalls! Some parts of Kauai are only accessible by sea or air, revealing views beyond your imagination. 
Beaches:
While Kauai is famous for its dramatic cliffs, canyons and rainforests, it’s also home to some of Hawaii’s most picturesque beaches. The island is surrounded by 50 miles of shimmering white-sand coast where you can enjoy jaw-droppingly beautiful unspoiled views. Find activities for both daring and more relaxed travelers, from surfing Hanalei Bay’s waves in the North Shore to spotting whales and sea turtles at Poipu Beach Park in the south. There are North Shore Beaches, East Shore Beaches, South Shore Beaches and West Side Beaches.
Land Activities:
Hiking is one of the best ways to discover the island. There are also mountain biking trails, zip lining and ATV adventures.
Water Activities:
Kauai is known for its lush scenery on land, but the waters of Kauai offer many additional unique adventures. Kauai is the home of the only navigable rivers in Hawaii. The three rivers are the Hanalei River, Huleia River, and the tranquil Wailua River, which is the most popular for kayakers. The breathtaking cliffs of the Napali Coast are best photographed from the panoramic views of a boat tour. 

If you are thinking of a vacation in Hawaii or anywhere else in 2022 or 2023, this is the perfect time to start planning. Let me know if I can help you plan a fun and relaxing trip.