Sun, Surf, Sand and Culture in Hawaii

Hawaii has been a US state for less than fifty years and retains its sense of being a nation unto itself. Although the facilities are like those of any developed country, the natural scenery and laid-back local attitude really does make this collection of tropical islands the playground of America.

Of all the Hawaiian islands, Oahu is the best place to start. Part thriving metropolis, and part gateway to the natural beauty that typifies Hawaii, Oahu combines the best of everything that this part of the world has to offer.

Hawaii's iconic cultural attractions are here – Pearl Harbor, the Polynesian Cultural Center (with its engaging mixture of museum-style information, village life, dance, food and art) and Waikiki, the surfing center of the Western hemisphere. There are some of the best golf courses in the world on Oahu and the capital city Honolulu offers world-class shopping, nightlife and restaurants. Just outside the city are abundant ways for visitors to enjoy themselves: Kayaking, snorkelling, helicopter and glider tours, skydiving, shark diving and horseback riding are offered by local companies and the choice range is much wider on Oahu than on any other island.

This is not to say that Oahu is the only island worth visiting. If you have more than a couple of days in Hawaii, it is well worth your while to get off the beaten path. Big Island, or Mauna Kea, is the home of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. One of the most unique national parks on the planet, the landscape here is arid and dynamic – these volcanoes are still active and molten lava is a normal sight. The park is well signposted, and guides are readily available – despite the dangerous nature of the park, every possible precaution has been taken to keep visitors in one piece.

Kauai is the island that arguably offers the most natural beauty in Hawaii. Waimea Canyon is here (also known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific) as is the Napali Coast – fifteen miles of wild coastline that houses dropoffs and precipices that will make even the most height-proof visitor feel a little woozy. Although Kauai has the feel of a remote and isolated island, there are plenty of facilities set up for tourists, and organized boat trips that provides the best snorkeling spots (as well as lunch) are easy to find.

The best way to really get away from it all is to organize a night on a deserted island. Boats leave from Honolulu that will take you and your party to one of the uninhabited islands that pepper the region, dropping you off for the night and picking you up the next day – food, shelter and drinks are included in the price - perfect for honeymooners.

Hotels in Hawaii aren't cheap at any time of year. The average range is $200 per night, although you can occasionally find online specials for around $120 per night..

Use the Hotelsio Rate Finder on the left to find cheap hotels in Hawaii.