One of the world's most popular travel destinations, the Hawaiian Islands are a tropical dream come true, complete with golden beaches, lush rainforests, smiling grass-skirted hula queens, and 80-degree weather all year long. The six main islands offer "aloha" spirit and a postcard-perfect setting, while at the same time posessing their own personalities. Depending on what you and your family are looking for in a tropical getaway, one of Hawaii's islands is bound to have it.
Honolulu (Oahu): On the Cheap in the Big-ish City
A lot of people will tell you there's no way to do Hawaii on a budget, but they clearly haven't done their Honolulu homework . Renting a condo is a
great way for families to keep costs down. Try ResortQuest,
formerly known as Aston, or Outrigger
and its value Ohana chain -- locals always opt for the Ala Moana Hotel, which is away from the Waikiki madness and has kitchenettes in most rooms.
Looking for low-cost activities while you're at it? Stroll Waikiki Boulevard at dusk, when the glow from torch-style street lanterns takes over as the sun goes down. On Friday at 8PM, catch the live fireworks at the Hilton Hawaiian Village. Check out the landmark hotels: the Sheraton "Pink Lady," the Halekulani, and the newly opened Wyland Waikiki Hotel. If you have a car, visit Diamond Head, the Pearl Harbor Memorial and the U.S.S. Missouri. Luncheon for a few dollars at one of Chinatown's many Asian hole-in-the-wall hideaways. Snorkel Hanauma Bay, drive to the North Shore to ogle the surfers, or spend an afternoon relaxing on idyllic Waimanalo Beach.
Maui: More for Families
The most touristed towns in Maui are Kihei in the south and Lahaina
on the west. Both are full of mid-priced, family-friendly hotels and busy restaurants and souvenir shops. South of Kihei is Wailea, the ritzy South
Maui resort district where places like the Grand Wailea
and the Four Seasons charge upward of $500 a night. The West Side has its own version: Ka'anapali,
home of the Hyatt Regency and the Westin.
All the Kihei and Wailea beaches are pretty well-trafficked, with tiny-to-small surf. Ditto for Black Rock in Ka'anapali. These beaches are good for splashing and snorkeling (although there's no guarantee you'll see many fish). If you really want to check out undersea life, take the whole family on an Atlantis Adventures submarine ride. The submarine departs from Lahaina Harbor, along with hundreds of other boats offering whale watches, snorkel cruises, fishing and tons of other activities. If you prefer to stay on land, check out the Maui Ocean Center in Maalaea. One can't-miss daytrip is the famed Road to Hana. Block out an entire day, too -- this is a road trip that should not be rushed. Stop in Paia and pick up nibbles to keep everyone content along the way.
Kauai: Right for Romance
With zero nightlife, a handful of restaurants, and countless picturesque spots to smooch, Kauai is the perfect island for twosomes. Even if you're
here with kids, you can leave them at Camp Hyatt (Grand Hyatt in Poipu),
Kalapaki Kids (Kaua'I Marriott, Lihue) or Keiki Aloha (Princeville Resort, Princeville) and sneak away for a romantic
adventure. Watch humpback whales at Mahaulepu Beach in Poipu or relive the romance of Bali
Hai at Lumahai Beach on the North Shore.
Big Island: Room to Roam
If you stay at one of the hotels on the Kohala Coast, it's easy to feel completely isolated from the rest of the island, with nothing to do besides
play golf and sunbathe. For you, we have three words: Rent. A. Car. And then get out of the hotel and experience the Big Island's many outdoor
adventures. Those of you who are really in shape can cycle the Ironman course, or take a much easier route through the coffee plantation and the
hills. Bring the whole family to an inland Kohala ranch, either for daytime riding or an evening
cookout. You can also tour working farms with www.hawaiiagventures.com. Snorkel, swim, or if you are on the eastern side of the island, hike the rainforests of Hilo.
Molokai: Heart of Hawaiian Culture
A small island with the largest concentrations of Hawaiians anywhere in the state, Molokai is lauded as the "friendly" island, and is also the most
culturally intriguing. Mix eco-tourism with island fun at the Molokai Ranch. Don't miss the mule ride to Kalaupapa -- you'll never forget it. Experience island agri-tourism at Molokai Plumerias,
Molokai Coffee Plantation and Purdy's Macadamia Nut Farm. For a real local experience, stand outside Kanemitsu's Bakery
at midnight when the first loaves of cinnamon apple Molokai bread come piping-hot out of the ovens.
Lanai: Golfer's Dream
This tiny island isn't the best for kids because there's basically nothing to occupy them. That said, it's only a brief ferry ride from Maui, so if
you want to escape for a day, you can always cruise over and play a few rounds of beach-side golf at Manele Bay, or upcountry at the Lodge at Koele. Come evening, board the ferry and head back to Maui in time for dinner.
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