Guides

Our Insider’s Guide to Hawai’i

May 30, 2025

Hello,!

Welcome to the Journal, your one stop library of  inspiration to help you plan your next break

Meet wegalavant

Hawai‘i is more than just a gorgeous beach destination—it’s an entire archipelago of personality. O‘ahu blends city life with surf culture, where you can hike in the morning and shop in Honolulu by afternoon. Maui is great for both honeymooners and families, with scenic drives, whale watching, and plenty of resort options. The Big Island is where to go for adventure, from volcanic landscapes to black-sand beaches. Kaua‘i is where nature lovers feel at home, with canyon hikes and hidden waterfalls. And if you’re wanting to completely unplug, head to Lana‘i. 

Whichever version of paradise you’re after, Hawai‘i delivers, whether it’s a family trip, friend getaway, or romantic escape. Read on to explore where to stay, what to do, and how to pick the island that’s right for you.

Need to know

Highrise buildings along the tropical beach with the rising sun just off camera

The islands are generally very safe, but take basic precautions: don’t leave valuables in your car or unattended on the beach, be careful on remote hikes or in the ocean, and always follow posted signs and check local conditions ahead of exploring lava fields or volcanic areas. Travel during peak seasons (like summer and holidays) fills up fast, so plan and book early. And remember “island time” when you visit—life moves a little slower here, so pack your patience along with your sandals.

Airports

  • The Island of Hawaiʻi (aka The Big Island): There are two main airports on the island, Kona International Airport (KOA) on the west side and Hilo International Airport (ITO) on the east side. Hilo’s flights are only inter-island, with flights to the other islands, mainland US and Canada from Kona.
  • Oʻahu & Lānaʻi: The biggest airport on the Hawaiian islands is on O’ahu, Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL). Flights arrive from many major North American, Asian and Oceania gateways. This is also where most flights will connect through to smaller islands, including Lānaʻi’s airport (LNY), all lasting 45 minutes or less.
  • Kauaʻi: Lihue Airport (LIH) is the island’s main airport with both inter-island connectivity as well as flights to many major cities across the US.
  • Maui: Maui’s Kahului Airport (OGG) is well connected to the other islands as well as destinations across the US and Canada.

Transportation: Depending on the island, there will be varying access to Uber and Lyft. Car rentals are highly recommended for all islands, making it easy to explore beaches, scenic drives, and more remote areas. 

Best time to visit: Hawai‘i shines year-round, but the best time to visit depends on what you’re after. The shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) bring warm, breezy days without the peak-season bustle. It’s perfect for swimming, hiking, and exploring the islands at a more relaxed pace. Winter (December to February) is Hawai‘i’s busiest season. Come for prime whale watching, holiday events, and cool breezes on hiking trails, but plan and book ahead. Summer (June to August) is hot, sunny, and all about long beach days.

Ideal length of stay: Plan to stay 5–10 days in Hawai‘i. This gives you ample time to unwind, explore different regions or islands, and embrace the relaxed island pace. If visiting multiple islands, a two-week itinerary is perfect, three to five days per island will let you experience what each has to offer. Thanks to quick, short flights between islands, you can easily hop from one to the next, maximizing your time and exploring a variety of landscapes.

Signature dishes

  • Island of Hawai‘i (Big Island): loco moco (rice, burger, egg, and gravy), Kona coffee (grown on the slopes of volcanoes), and Huli Huli chicken (smoky, sweet BBQ chicken).
  • Oʻahu & Lānaʻi: garlic shrimp (butter, garlic, and rice), Spam musubi (a grab-and-go snack with rice and grilled Spam), and poi & laulau (traditional Hawaiian dishes made with taro). 
  • Kauaʻi: poke bowls (fresh marinated fish over rice with toppings), grilled local fish (try opah or ono), and lilikoi sweets (passionfruit shaved ice, pies, and pastries).
  • Maui: fish tacos (usually with mango slaw), coconut shrimp (crunchy, sweet, and perfect with dipping sauce), and mac nut pancakes (fluffy and topped with coconut syrup).

What to wear: Expect warm, sunny days that are perfect for swimsuits, breezy outfits, sandals, and reef-safe sunscreen. Evenings tend to be casual but polished, with linen shirts, relaxed dresses, or anything lightweight and effortless. Bring a light jacket or extra layer for cooler nights, early outings, or time spent up in the mountains.

Respect local customs: Hawai‘i’s rich cultural roots and strong sense of identity are central to the islands’ spirit. Show your respect by learning a few Hawaiian phrases, reading signs carefully, and honoring posted guidelines. This is especially true at sacred or culturally significant places. Being thoughtful and considerate goes a long way with locals.

Properties recommended for accessibility:

  • Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort (Oʻahu)
  • Four Seasons Hualālai (The Island of Hawaiʻi)
  • Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection (The Island of Hawaiʻi)
  • 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay (Kauaʻi)
  • Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa (Oʻahu)
  • Marriott Ko Olina Beach Club (Oʻahu)
  • ESPACIO The Jewel of Waikiki (Oʻahu)

The Island of Hawaiʻi (aka The Big Island)

A hotel pool surrounded by lounge chairs and palm trees with the rising sun over the ocean in the distance

Image courtesy of Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection

Dramatic and diverse, the Big Island is all about contrast. Lava fields, rainforests, black sand beaches, and snowy summits are what to expect. It’s the place to explore Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, snorkel in crystal-clear bays or unwind along Kona’s sunny coast. 

Where to stay

Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection: Hawaiian culture infuses with modern comfort at this resort that’s made for couples and families alike. Spacious rooms, welcoming staff, plus the ocean views and cultural activities make it a truly special place to connect with the island.

  • Our perks include a £75 food & beverage credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort: Perfect for families and couples, this laid-back beachfront resort’s community-style layout encourages connection. There’s no shortage of activities, plus, a focus on sustainability with the resort’s rich history making it feel like a special stay.

  • Our perks include a £100 hotel credit, welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Autograph Collection: Mixing elegance and high-end, modern rooms with top-tier amenities, it’s the ideal spot to unwind. Guests can relax on Kauna’oa Beach, play a round of golf, or indulge in delicious dining at this island escape.

  • Our Perks include a £75-£150 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Oʻahu & Lānaʻi

View of a retro pink building with green courtyard and ocean in the background during daytime

Image courtesy of The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki

Oʻahu brings together surf, city, and culture with the buzz of Waikīkī and the laid-back North Shore. Lānaʻi is all about quiet luxury, with secluded beaches, scenic cliffs, and high-end resorts that feel a world away. They may be close to one another, but each is distinctive.

Where to stay

Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina: Families and couples, to golfers and wellness travelers, this tucked away retreat is upscale but never pretentious. Spacious rooms, five dining options, and tons of activities make it a luxe home base with a strong sense of place.

  • When you book Four Seasons with us, you’ll enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits.

The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki: The iconic “Pink Palace of the Pacific” is a great pick for old-school glam on Waikīkī Beach. Elegant room, historical setting, and local touches elevate the hotel’s vintage charm to be a top choice.

  • Our perks include a £75 hotel credit, welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Four Seasons Resort Lana’i: Secluded hideaway above Hulopoʻe Bay, where dramatic cliffs meet turquoise waves. Sleek rooms, personalized service, and purposefully remote, it’s the kind of place where you truly unplug and settle into island time.

  • When you book Four Seasons with us, you’ll enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits.

Sensei Lānaʻi, A Four Seasons Resort: This serene, adults-only wellness enclave is found in the island’s uplands. It offers personalized wellness programs, spa treatments, and health-conscious cuisine by Nobu. It’s the ultimate retreat to leave deeply restored.

  • When you book Four Seasons with us, you’ll enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits.

The Ritz-Carlton O‘ahu, Turtle Bay: Modern style and a deep sense of place make this retreat great for couples and honeymooners. Panoramic views, an Instagram-worthy infinity pool, and standout dining make it polished but relaxed, with easy beach access.

  • Our perks include a £75 hotel credit, welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Kauaʻi

A neutral colored room with bed facing wall-to-wall windows with tropical mountains and ocean in the distance

Image courtesy of 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay

Known as the Garden Isle, Kauaʻi is wildly scenic and deeply peaceful. Think emerald valleys, towering waterfalls, and epic coastlines like the Nā Pali. It’s perfect for hiking, kayaking or simply taking the scenery in.

Where to stay

1 Hotel Hanalei Bay: This grounded high-end getaway feels peaceful and connected to nature. Above Hanalei Bay, this wellness-focused retreat blends eco-conscious design with five-star comfort for couples, solo travelers, and families with older kids who want to recharge.

  • Our perks include a £75 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Grand Hyatt Kauaʻi Resort & Spa: Grand Hyatt Kauaʻi is perfect for travelers after that classic Hawaiian resort vibe. Sweeping ocean views, gardens, and open-air spaces that feel instantly relaxing. It’s a favorite for lagoon-style pools and easy beach access.

  • Our perks include a hotel credit, welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Ko’a Kea Resort on Poipu Beach: This boutique oceanfront hideaway keeps things intimate, with peaceful vibes, warm service, and a front-row seat to Kauaʻi’s golden sunsets. Rooms even come with private lanais, for a quiet, romantic stay with thoughtful details.

  • Our perks include a £75 hotel credit, welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Maui

Expansive hotel room with bed to the left facing a TV and under a fan with separate seating living room off to the right, both with sliding glass doors and ocean beyond

Image courtesy of Fairmont Kea Lani Maui

Maui balances adventure and indulgence. Spend your days driving the winding Road to Hana, catching sunrise above the clouds at Haleakalā or unwinding on golden beaches in Wailea with a drink in hand.

Where to stay

Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui: A beachfront escape with a touch of grandeur, the open-air lobby and grand design create a royal feel. Its expansive suites with private balconies offer ocean views, plus a range of dining and activities make it an ideal spot to relax in style.

  • Our perks include a £75 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Montage Kapalua Bay: Elegant yet relaxed, this high-end resort has spacious suites, ocean views, and tons of outdoor activities. Guests can enjoy dining at upscale restaurants, exceptional service, plus access to Kapalua’s golf courses and beaches.

  • Our Perks include a £100 spa credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort: A sleek, modern beach escape with a calm, Zen-like vibe. Contemporary rooms feature unique touches like lava stone bathrooms and private lanais. It’s the perfect place to recharge after a beach or pool day.

  • Our partner perks include a hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade, and extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Cruises

Blue ocean waters with cruise ship off to the right in the distance with a tropical island to the left during day

Image courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Most cruises to Hawai‘i depart from either Honolulu or the North American West Coast. Due to maritime laws, sailings that start on the US mainland need to include at least one international stop, usually in Canada or Mexico. You’ll find many cruise lines will have transpacific cruises between Asia and Oceania to North America that stop in Hawai‘i along the way. 

If you’re looking for a round-trip option from the islands, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America is your best bet. It’s the only ship that sails round-trip from Honolulu, and because it’s US-built and flagged, it doesn’t require a foreign stop. It’s an easy, no-fly way to explore multiple islands in one trip.

Norwegian Cruise Line (Pride of America): A breezy, island-hopping escape with all the perks of a floating resort, and cozy, modern staterooms. Between port days, unwind poolside, catch a show, or dine al fresco under the stars without repacking once.

  • Our Perks include up to £250 shipboard credit per stateroom.

History and culture

a statue in front of a large building with a clock tower

The history of Hawai’i is as layered and expansive as its landscapes. Long before it became a US state in 1959, these islands were an independent kingdom with an Indigenous culture shaped by centuries of Polynesian voyaging, storytelling, and deep spiritual connection to land and sea. Native Hawaiians, or Kānaka Maoli, arrived by canoe as early as 1,500 years ago. They navigated the vast Pacific Ocean using only the stars, ocean currents, and wind. The highly sophisticated society was developed rooted in aloha ‘āina (love of the land), where practices like kapu (sacred laws), heiau (temples), and traditional farming sustained both community and environment. In the late 18th century, King Kamehameha the Great unified the islands under one rule, plus landmarks like Puʻukoholā Heiau and Iolani Palace still tell that story. 

The arrival of Western missionaries and the eventual overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy in 1893 marked a painful turning point. This led to annexation by the United States—a chapter still deeply felt today. Yet despite centuries of upheaval, Native Hawaiian culture thrives through hulamele (chants), and community efforts to preserve language and land. Visiting sacred sites, learning about ali‘i (Hawaiian royalty), and showing respect through simple gestures—like removing your shoes before entering a home or saying “mahalo”—are small but meaningful ways to connect with Hawai‘i beyond its beaches. Today, travelers are encouraged not just to admire the islands, but to understand and honor the living culture that continues to define them.

Cultural celebrations & events

  • Prince Kūhiō Day (March 26): Celebrating Prince Jonah Kūhiō, a beloved Hawaiian royal and U.S. congressman, with island-wide parades, hula, and cultural tributes.
  • Merrie Monarch Festival (April): Held in Hilo on the Big Island, this world-renowned week-long festival honors the art of hula through elite competitions, music, and Hawaiian traditions.
  • Lei Day (May 1): A celebration of Hawaiian culture and the spirit of aloha, marked by lei-making contests, live music, and hula. It’s especially festive on Oʻahu and Maui.
  • Obon Festivals (Summer): A cherished Buddhist tradition honoring ancestors through dance, food, and community gatherings. This festival is celebrated throughout the islands with special vibrancy on Oʻahu and Maui.
  • Aloha Festivals (September): Hawaiʻi’s largest cultural celebration, featuring colorful parades, music, hula, and ʻono food, with Honolulu hosting some of the most spirited events.
  • Hawaiian International Film Festival (November): A showcase of storytelling from Hawai‘i, Asia, and the Pacific, this acclaimed festival draws global talent and celebrates diverse voices in film and art.

Activities

people swimming near shore with waves during daytime

Hike to waterfalls, snorkel with sea turtles, explore volcanoes, and discover cultural landmarks. There’s no shortage of ways to connect with nature and the heritage of the Hawaiian islands.

The Island of Hawaiʻi (aka The Big Island)

  • Hiking: Hike across Kīlauea Iki Crater for a one-of-a-kind trek through cooled lava flows and misty rainforest. Head to Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary to explore one of the island’s most ecologically rich landscapes.
  • Helicopter tour: Take a helicopter tour over Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park for a bird’s-eye view of smoking craters and lava flows that bring the island’s volcanic power into full view.
  • Snorkeling: Slip into the sea after dark for a night snorkel with manta rays off the Kona Coast. It’s an unforgettable, otherworldly experience as these gentle giants glide silently beneath you.
  • Papakōlea Beach: Make your way to Papakōlea Beach, one of the few green sand beaches in the world. The olive-toned shore and rugged cliffs feel like a scene from another planet.
  • Ahalanui Park: Ease into the warm, spring-fed waters of Ahalanui Park. This natural thermal pool fringed by palm trees and tropical blooms is a perfect stop to unwind after a day of exploring.

Oʻahu & Lānaʻi

  • Maunawili Falls Trail: On Oʻahu, hike the Maunawili Falls Trail for a rainforest escape that winds through the jungle and ends at a waterfall-fed swimming hole.
  • Ho‘omaluhia Botanical Garden: Wander through 400 acres of tropical flora and fauna at Ho‘omaluhia Botanical Garden. It’s where dramatic views of the Koʻolau Mountains meet serene walking paths and open-air pavilions.
  • Hawaiian Kingdom: Dive into Hawai‘i’s royal past at the Bishop Museum and ʻIolani Palace, the only official royal residence in the United States. It offers a window into the islands’ monarchy and heritage.
  • Snorkeling: Snorkel in the calm, clear waters of Hanauma Bay, a protected marine life conservation area perfect for spotting vibrant tropical fish and coral gardens.
  • Lanikai & the Mokulua Islands: Head to Lanikai Beach for a picture-perfect paddle to the Mokulua Islands by kayak. Afterwards, hike up to the nearby Lanikai Pillbox trail for views over the windward coast.
  • North shore beaches: Watch world-class surfers take on towering winter swells at beaches like Banzai Pipeline, where the Pipe Masters competition draws top talent. In summer, the waves calm and the same beaches are ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
  • Munro Trail: For panoramic island views, venture along Munro Trail by 4WD. This scenic backcountry route winds through forested ridgelines with views of Moloka‘i, Maui, and beyond.

Kauaʻi

  • Waimea Canyon State Park: Sweeping lookouts and trails cut through rust-colored cliffs, deep gorges, and emerald valleys here at the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.”
  • The Mahaulepu Coastal Trail: Leading along a rugged stretch of southern coastline, this trail brings you past ancient limestone formations, native plants, and sea turtles sunning onshore.
  • Makauwahi Cave: Hawaiʻi’s largest limestone cave, this fascinating spot allows you to explore ancient fossils and archaeological discoveries.
  • Nā Pali Coast State Wilderness Park: Soaring sea cliffs, hidden coves, and remote beaches best reached by boat, helicopter, or the challenging Kalalau Trail are all on display at this iconic stretch of Hawaiʻi.
  • Wailua River: Paddle the Wailua River through jungle, past secret waterfalls and sacred sites once reserved for Hawaiian royalty.
  • Art Night: On Friday evenings, Hanapēpē comes alive for Art Night, when its historic main street fills with live music, open galleries, and local food.

Maui

  • Road to Hana: Drive the legendary Road to Hana, where waterfalls, sea cliffs, and rainforests are around every corner. Consider a guided tour so you can sit back and soak it all in.
  • Waiʻānapanapa State Park: Don’t miss Waiʻānapanapa State Park, home to jet-black Paʻiloa Beach. Be sure to reserve advance access to this otherworldly stretch of coast.
  • Molokini Crater: Snorkel the crystal-clear waters of Molokini Crater, a sunken volcanic caldera teeming with tropical fish and coral just off the shores of Wailea.
  • Pāʻia: Head to Pāʻia on the North Shore for a dose of boho charm. Find surf shops, art galleries, and laid-back cafés perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
  • ʻĪao Valley: Wander through the ʻĪao Valley, marvel at the iconic ʻĪao Needle, and explore nearby gardens for a quieter connection with nature.
  • Makena Beach State Park: Offering one of Maui’s most scenic beach days, with soft golden sand, gentle waves, and room to relax away from the crowds.

Dining

Overhead view of a poke bowl with rice, fish, seaweed and vegetables in a bowl on a wooden table

Hawai‘i’s dining scene is a fusion of island-grown ingredients with global flavors. From traditional Hawaiian fare to inventive farm-to-table cuisine, a casual plate lunch or a standout fine dining experience, these spots are worth adding to your list.

The Island of Hawaiʻi (aka The Big Island)

  • CanoeHouse at Mauna Lani: Oceanfront and effortlessly elegant, CanoeHouse sets the scene for a romantic night out. The menu is Japanese-inspired, with standout dishes like miso butterfish and fresh sashimi. Make sure to time your dinner with the sunset.
  • Ulu Ocean Grill at Four Seasons Hualālai: Elevated dining right by the beach. Expect beautifully prepared seafood, a well-curated wine list, and warm, attentive service that never feels too formal. Ideal for marking a memorable occasion.
  • Kona Brewing Company: Easygoing and always buzzing, this spot is a post-beach go-to. Grab a seat on the lanai and sample a flight of local brews. Dig into pizzas, poke nachos, and pub-style favorites.
  • Da Poke Shack: This low-key stop near the shoreline has earned its cult following. The poke is incredibly fresh and flavorful. Be sure to get there early, they sell out fast.
  • Kula Shave Ice & Anuenue Ice Cream: Two sweet stops worth seeking out. Kula blends local fruits into homemade syrups for a more natural twist on shaved ice. Anuenue delivers nostalgic, no-frills scoops. Either way, they’re perfect cooldowns.

Oʻahu & Lānaʻi

  • Sunrise Shack (Oʻahu): Kick off your morning with vibrant açaí bowls, fresh smoothies, and island-style energy. With multiple locations around Oʻahu, it’s a favorite for travelers craving something colorful, health-forward, and camera-ready.
  • The Pig and the Lady (Oʻahu): A Chinatown favorite, this bold take on Vietnamese cuisine is anything but ordinary. From creative pho to playful cocktails, it’s a lively mix of tradition, innovation, and serious flavor.
  • ARVO (Oʻahu): Bright, minimal, and always buzzing, this Aussie-inspired café in Honolulu brings together tropical ingredients and West Coast café culture. Great for a brunch that’s equal parts tasty and photo-worthy.
  • La Mer at Halekulani (Oʻahu): Refined, romantic, and right on the ocean, La Mer delivers French fine dining with island soul. With standout service and impeccable dishes, it’s a destination in its own right.
  • The Grove at The Modern Honolulu (O’ahu): This poolside restaurant and bar blends island flavors with creative flair. Fresh seafood, imaginative plates, and expertly crafted cocktails are all served in a relaxed, elegant setting.
  • Nobu Lānaʻi at Four Seasons Resort (Lānaʻi): With ocean views and a globally acclaimed menu, Nobu on Lānaʻi is the spot for refined Japanese-Peruvian cuisine. Signature dishes like black cod miso and fresh sushi shine in this unforgettable setting.
  • Blue Ginger Cafe (Lānaʻi): A local favorite, this charming family-owned cafe serves up island comfort classics and fresh baked pastries. Don’t miss the chicken katsu, fried saimin, and turnovers.

Kauaʻi

  • 1 Kitchen at 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay: Elevated and scenic, this refined spot showcases island-grown ingredients with a modern touch. The seafood is standout, the produce is hyper-local, and the wine list favors organic and biodynamic selections. It’s the ideal spot for a leisurely dinner after a day in the sun.
  • Living Foods: Part café, part gourmet market, Living Foods is known for its vibrant poke bowls, crisp salads, and smoothies packed with local fruit. A breezy stop for a wholesome breakfast or mid-day bite.
  • Kauaʻi Juice Co.: For wellness on the go, this juice shop delivers fresh-pressed juices, nut milks, smoothie bowls, and seasonal wellness shots. It’s all made with Kauaʻi-grown ingredients. A refreshing pick-me-up after hiking or beach time.
  • Warehouse 3540: This lively artisan hub brings together rotating food trucks and local makers. Grab Thai curry, açaí bowls, or poke, then explore handmade goods and art in a fun, open-air setting.
  • Hanalei Bread Company: A laid-back, organic bakery and café just steps from the beach. Come for the sourdough toast, banana bread, and strong espresso. Stay for the relaxed surfer vibe and friendly locals.
  • AMA Restaurant: Tucked away on a cozy garden patio, AMA serves up steaming ramen bowls and flavorful Asian-inspired small plates. It’s casual but special, and reservations are recommended.
  • Bar Acuda: This relaxed favorite is perfect for sharing tapas-style dishes made with Kauaʻi’s freshest ingredients. Expect grilled local fish, roasted veggies, and a well-curated wine list in a breezy, open-air space.
  • Pono Market: A no-frills counter serving classic Hawaiian plate lunches, fresh poke, and daily specials. Quick, satisfying, and full of local flavor—perfect for takeout or a casual bite.

Maui

  • Mama’s Fish House: A Maui classic for a reason. This beachfront favorite draws locals and travelers alike for seafood caught daily in nearby waters. The ocean views are stunning, but it’s the ultra-fresh menu that steals the show.
  • Monkeypod Kitchen: Casual and lively with a focus on local ingredients done right. Known for dishes like ahi bruschetta and handcrafted cocktails, it’s the perfect mix of laid-back energy and elevated island fare.
  • Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop: A cozy stop for comfort food lovers, Leoda’s serves up house-made savory pies, sandwiches, and sweet treats. Its setting feels nostalgic and easygoing, perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a casual dinner.
  • Ka’ana Kitchen: Located at the Andaz Maui, this breezy, open-air restaurant is all about seasonal, locally sourced dishes with subtle Japanese influences. It’s stylish, fresh, and a favorite for sunset dining.
  • Ferraro’s Restaurant & Bar: Coastal Italian meets island flavor at this stunning oceanfront spot. Ideal for a romantic dinner, it pairs handmade pasta and fresh seafood with unforgettable sunset views.
  • Merriman’s: One of Maui’s standout fine-dining options, Merriman’s focuses on regional cuisine made with top-quality local produce. The waterfront views and attentive service add to the polished yet welcoming atmosphere.
  • The Fish Market Maui: Quick, fresh, and full of flavor. This casual spot is great for grabbing poke bowls, seafood sandwiches, or fresh-caught fillets to go—perfect after a day at the beach.

If not Hawai’i…

A tropical lagoon surrounded by palm trees and the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora, with mountains in the distance during day

If Hawai‘i’s tropical scenery and outdoor adventures speak to you, but you’re craving a different kind of getaway, here are a few other destinations with a similar vibe.

Tahiti, French Polynesia: For an upscale beach escape, Tahiti delivers with its turquoise lagoons, lush mountains, and iconic overwater bungalows. It’s perfect for snorkeling, diving, and unwinding in laid-back luxury.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia: With postcard-perfect beaches and vibrant coral reefs, Bora Bora offers a tranquil island atmosphere and natural beauty that feels right in line with Hawai‘i. Perfect for a romantic or restorative retreat.

Costa Rica: For a nature-forward adventure, Costa Rica pairs tropical beaches with misty volcanoes and rainforests teeming with wildlife. It’s a dream for eco-travelers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Sedona, Arizona: Sedona’s dramatic red rock canyons, spiritual energy, and endless hiking trails offer an earthy, expansive, and unforgettable experience right on the US mainland.

Planning a trip to Hawai’i? From VIP perks to exclusive benefits, our expert Travel Planner will tap into their little black book of contacts and insider intel to VIP you every step of the way. Sit back, relax, and let us handle all the details. Fill in WeGalavant’s Enquiry Form to start planning now.

+ Show / Hide Comments

Share to:

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

READ        LATEST

the

wegalavant

About wegalavant

Say Goodbye To Boring Travel Planning

BEST      THE JOURNAL

of

Asia, Destinations, Guides

Singapore and Bali deliver the kind of contrasting energy that makes trips unforgettable. One is sleek and modern, the other is laid-back and spiritual. In Singapore, you’ll find futuristic architecture, Michelin-starred hawker stalls, and neighborhoods packed with culture, from Little India to Chinatown. It’s clean, easy to navigate and ideal for food lovers, city explorers […]

Europe

When it comes to summer escapes, not all islands are created equal — and that’s half the fun. Maybe you’re chasing sun-drenched hikes and wild coastlines, or maybe you’re just looking for a low-key beach where the biggest decision is rosé or spritz. Here’s our cheat sheet to finding the island (and the vibe) that […]

Don't see what you're looking for?

get in touch with the team 

Ready to start planning your ideal trip but don't see your destination or hotel? Don't worry we have access to almost everything. Get in touch with a Travel Planner today!