At least we weren’t the only ones. Like many of you, we had been captivated by the fountains of lava from Kīlauea, shooting up over 1,000 feet above Halemaʻumaʻu crater. The recent eruption—now exiting its Episode 16—has lured volcano enthusiasts from around the world to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park to witness this extraordinary sight. It […]
Hiking to a waterfall is a popular bucket-list item for many travelers to Hawaiʻi. On Oʻahu, a variety of trails lead to gorgeous falls. Ranging in skill level, from easy to challenging, these three trails offer a starting point for your next waterfall adventure. Note: Check weather conditions before visiting any waterfall in Hawaiʻi. Flash
From witnessing the fiery eruption at Kīlauea to hiking through tropical forests, nature lovers have plenty to do on the east side of Hawaiʻi Island. And the charming town of Hilo is the perfect home base for them and other adventurous travelers. Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is just a 45-minute drive south of Hilo International
The Seattle-based Holland America Line has opened bookings for its 2026-27 Hawaiʻi cruises, with a choice of six itineraries ranging from 17 to 28 days. The cruises sail aboard Koningsdam, Noordam and Zaandam ships, and start or end in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Seattle, Washington; or San Diego, California. Each cruise to the Islands will feature
From highways to backcountry roads, if you spend just a little time driving in Hawaiʻi you’ll spot cars, minivans and trucks decked in decals with Island-style messages. One common bumper sticker advises folks to “Slow down, this ain’t the mainland.” Although it’s meant as a quip, the phrase is a helpful reminder to enjoy the
It’s always a good idea to head outdoors in Hawaiʻi—and Maui has dozens of reasons to lace up and hit the trails. The Valley Isle boasts a variety of hikes, from grueling ridge treks to leisurely strolls through native rainforests. If you’re planning to explore Maui’s hiking trails on your next visit—or maybe you need
From stargazing on the tallest mountain in Hawaiʻi to staying at an exclusive, adults-only resort, the Islands offer unforgettable experiences. For anyone planning a trip to the Islands in 2025, these activities and excursions are worth adding to your bucket list. 1. Hike in Haleakalā National Park, Maui Venturing to the highest point on the
Got a trip planned to Oʻahu—but want to visit Kauaʻi, too? I don’t blame you. Kauaʻi is one of my favorite places to visit, especially when I want to decompress and relax. It’s a great island for exploring, with miles of uncrowded hiking trails and secluded beaches. If you’re planning to spend at least a
It’s not every day you walk through a forest of Honduras mahogany trees in Hawai‘i—or anywhere, really. And yet, here we are, standing among more than 85,000 of these trees, planted in perfect rows on the Wai Koa Plantation, a 500-acre working farm on the north shore of Kaua‘i. Wai Koa is the largest mahogany
In Hawaiʻi winter brings cooler weather, humpback whales and, of course, massive surf to north-facing shores. Surfing—or heʻe nalu in ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian language)—is believed to have originated in ancient Polynesia and brought to the Islands, where it thrived. Once a sport reserved for aliʻi (Hawaiian royalty), commoners were allowed to hit the waves when
Move over, Molokini. Kāʻanapali Beach is now the No. 1 snorkeling spot on Maui, according to our 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards. Not that should be a huge surprise since the popular West Maui beach—27 miles west of Kahului Airport—has been on the list for years. (Rounding out the Top 5 are Molokini Crater, Honolua Bay,
Even as one of the most isolated archipelagos in the world, the Hawaiian Islands are a bookmarked destination for many travelers. Its proximity to the equator results in a year-round tropical climate, luring many visitors. It’s this similar reason that makes the Islands an ideal place for growing an abundance of crops—including coffee. With its
