The year-round tropical paradise offers amazing experiences!
I love getting up early on Black Friday and going to find some deals. Yep, I’m one of those people! I love starting the Christmas holidays by walking into stores and feeling the pre-Christmas excitement and energy. I’m an early riser anyway, so to me it’s not super difficult to get up and go. I started years ago while my kids were young, and I went this year too, my first year as an empty nester.
My 19-year-old Sabra was home for the Thanksgiving weekend. She told me how her cousin, who she rooms with, had been talking for days about how excited she was to go home and go Black Friday shopping. Then she looked at me and said, “Mom, you’re not going to make me go with you, are you?”
I laughed and said, no, of course I wasn’t. It made me think about how different we all are—in something as small as whether we like Black Friday shopping or not, and also in what we like to do while we’re on vacation! Some of us are more about relaxation and have nothing planned except the getaway. Others like to fill the time with exploration and activities.
Well, whether you’re a do-it-all type of person or a do-nothing type of person while on vacation, I know that one of the most frustrating things can be returning home and having someone say, “Oh, did you do such-and-such?” And you feel bad because you didn’t even know that was a possibility.
Well, just so you don’t experience FOMO in the Hawaiian islands, here are 8 top things to do in beautiful Hawaii—so you don’t miss out. With huge waves, volcanoes, and interesting culture, you’ll be sure to be busy and entertained—or not, if you just want to relax.
Whale Watching – The 'Big Island' is the most popular destination for whale watching in Hawaii, but all of the islands offer chances to see the beautiful creatures. The peak season to catch a glimpse of Humpback whales is from January to March. You have the option to view via a cruise or private boat tour.
Luaus – Luaus are a major source of entertainment on all islands within Hawaii. Take the opportunity to enjoy live dancing, learn about Hawaiian as well as Polynesian culture, and enjoy delectable cuisines. But book early, because they’re selling out fast these days!
See a Lava Show – Hop aboard a World-class catamaran to get up and close to the volcano fingers as they enter the sea. You will have thoroughly trained staff aboard, and safety is paramount. You can select from a tour in the morning, sunset, day, or twilight tour from the Big Island of Hawaii.
Helicopter Tours – Various tour lines offer unique aerial journeys that allow you to view the breathtaking Hawaiian scenery. From volcanoes and waterfalls to hidden valleys and majestic coastlines, a helicopter tour is truly an ideal way to sightsee.
SUP (Stand-Up Paddle Boarding) – This activity originated in Hawaii and is a derivative of surfing. SUP is soothing and allows you to explore the waterways on your terms. An excellent paddle path to take is from the Lanikai Beach to the Mokulua Islands on Oahu.
Horseback Riding Tours – Explore the coastline or venture to hidden trails on an exploratory horseback tour. Most companies offer private as well as group tours. Some countless ranches and stables accommodate tourists. Paniolo Adventures is one of the largest, with an 11,000-acre cattle ranch located in Waimea, on Oahu’s North Shore.
Mauna Kea – This dormant volcano on the Big Island of Hawaii is a unique wonder to explore, and erupted over 4,000 years ago. You can hike the summit, but be sure to stop by the VIS (Visitor Information Station) to check for weather and safety tips.
Take the Road to Hana – The road to Hana is on the island of Maui, and includes a winding road of over 600 turns and 50 one-lane bridges. It’s unlike any other drive you’ll ever experience. With chances to hike through bamboo forests, visit waterfalls, swim in freshwater caves, stand in lava tubes, and visit organic fruit farms, you’ll love this 68-mile adventure.
Hawaii is open for visitors, and is warm and inviting year-round. Let me know if you’re interested in visiting these beautiful tropical islands, and I’ll help you get there—and experience some great activities.