Hawaiian Vacation Destinations

Want to take a trip to Hawaii? Here are a few tips!

Dear Traveler,

You might be wondering how someone like me, a young person from the East Coast of the United States, could possibly know anything about a Hawaiian vacation. Well, I’ll have you know that I’ve had plenty of experience on the islands over the past few years! I believe it was back in 2007 that my older sister and her husband were stationed in Hawaii on the island of Oahu. So ever since then, I’ve had the opportunity to go visit her a few times. I’ve been to Hawaii four times now, so about once every year (In fact, I actually plan on returning to visit her again sometime this year in August). Believe me, Hawaii isn’t all it’s cracked up to be if you do what the traditional Hawaiian tourist does. Of course, Hawaii is famous for beaches such as Waikiki, but the beach is so crowded and congested that there’s barely any room to relax and enjoy the nature that surrounds you. If you want to make your Hawaiian vacation a vacation to remember, pay close attention!

The first thing to realize is that Hawaii is just like any other place. Sure, there are the expensive resorts and high class restaurants, but the islands of Hawaii are sprinkled with areas that are in extreme poverty. Because of such a drastic difference in the social stratification, many of the native Hawaiians can be a bit rude to tourists (this is true of any travel destination in the world, I suppose), but there are also many who are extremely friendly and welcoming! So, be forewarned. If you come across a grumpy, angry Hawaiian, don’t be alarmed, and definitely don’t make the generalization that ALL Hawaiians are that way.

Secondly, you need to expand your areas of interest. I understand if your heart is set on going to visit the famous beaches with white sand and crystal clear, blue waters, but realize that some of the best places are secluded areas that may take a little effort to find. I assure you that it will be worth it. The secluded beaches are the best beaches. There’s no noises to be heard other than the crashing of the waves and the occasional gust of wind rustling through the leaves of the palm trees. Here is a beach on the North Shore of the island of Oahu. Now here is Waikiki. See the difference? Maybe you enjoy being around all the people, but I prefer to get away from it all and enjoy having the entire beach all to myself! Another thing that’s great is to take a drive around the island. Instead of having complex highways and interstates, Hawaii has a single highway that encircles the entire island. By taking this drive, you’re able to the many different aspects the island has to offer in a relatively short period of time!

Hawaii really is a great place to visit. The weather is nice and the sights are beautiful. There’s great food, there’s snorkeling, there’s the ocean, and so much more to do! I’ve only ever been to the island of Oahu, but I’m sure the other island are equally spectacular! Each island has a specific quality of uniqueness that makes it entirely different from any of the other islands. One last warning… if you’re traveling from the East Coast or somewhere even further away, you better prepare yourself for a long flight! Safe Traveling!!

Hope to See You In Hawaii,

Hawaiian “Expert”, Christopher C.