To see Hawaii takes a minimum of seven trips, one for each island.
OK… maybe you aren’t willing to make that kind of commitment. But each island in Hawaii is a world of its own, and each deserves a leisurely pace, an opportunity to get to know it up close and personal.
Far too many visitors to the islands make the mistake of trying to see and do everything in a week, or bouncing around from island to island in an effort to soak it all in. Want some advice? Explore one island at a time and save the rest for another break. Moving from island to island can take more time than you think, and is probably time better spent on a beach, in the surf or at a great bar sipping your favorite drink.
But to really make the most of your island vacation, be adventuresome and rent a car. Jeeps and convertibles have a certain appeal in Hawaii — you’ll find that out as soon as you get there. Remember, though, that your car is all about getting you to the outer reaches of the islands. Once there, step outside and experience the amazing sights, smells, sounds, views and vistas that make the experience that is Hawaii.
A favorite locale of tourists who are eager to explore is Oahu, navigated in a rental car. The scenery is amazing, and on a nice day, which is most days, the drive is exhilarating. A drive around the perimeter and interior of the island of Oahu is a great way to get to know the geography, the people and the terrain in a really interesting, inexpensive way. The drive is not as famous as Maui’s Road to Hana, but the Oahu route is well worth the time.
In total, the drive is about 120 miles and takes the better part of six to eight hours if you go slow enough to enjoy the scenery and stop along the way. Start by driving along Kapiolani Park, then up Diamond Head Road. Stop wherever you feel inclined — you’ll have many excellent opportunities. While traveling northeast on Diamond Head Road, most people are struck by the scenic beauty of the island, just moments outside of busy Waikiki. Stop here if you feel up to an early morning hike to the top of Diamond Head — a 760foot extinct volcano. At the summit, you will be treated to a panoramic view of much of the southern half of the island.
Leave early enough to plan breakfast in the small town of Haleiwa. Stop at Waimea Beach Park, which is known for its immense winter waves more than 30 feet high, though it is calm enough to easily swim in the summer. If you are inclined, visit the Polynesian Cultural Center in Laie. The Polynesian Culture Center will give you an exciting and entertaining look at the history, culture and traditional cuisine of the island. The performers are masterful in their presentation. After your visit, continue on the coastal road to the quaint town of Kailua.
Take H1 East along Kalanaina’ole Highway through Hanauma Bay. Snorkeling in Hanauma Bay is a real treat (but note that the park is closed on Tuesdays). Your next stop might be the Sea Life Park, especially if you are traveling with children. You can move on to see Sandy Beach and Makapuu Beach Park, whichever appeals to you. Be sure to stop at the Pali Lookout.
Just a bit further on, you will encounter Sunset Beach and finally the town of Hale’iwa. At Kaena Point, head back through the middle of the island through the coffee and pineapple plantations. Then, via H2 and H1 West, return to Honolulu and Waikiki.
Along the way, you will see so much to do with so many possible detours and stops that your trip may not even resemble the suggestions above. But you are certain to see a side of Oahu that many who never leave Waikiki will never see. There are some really great deals on Hawaii vacation packages right now with many of the hotels offering fourth and fifth nights free.
Federal Way resident Jerry Vaughn is president of World Voyager Vacations: jvaughn@worldvoyagervacations.com
