Hammond Haven, Luxury Log and Timber Cottage on Jack Lake
Apsley, Ontario
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Discover Lake Waiau
Hawaii is not typically known for its large lakes, as the Pacific Ocean and volcanic formations dominate its stunning landscapes. However, one notable exception is Lake Waiau, nestled near the summit of Mauna Kea on the Big Island. Despite its relatively small size, Lake Waiau is the highest alpine lake in the United States, with an elevation of over 13,000 feet.
This unique and pristine lake is surrounded by the otherworldly terrain of Mauna Kea, offering visitors a rare opportunity to experience a high-altitude lake in a tropical setting. While its size may not rival mainland counterparts, Lake Waiau’s location and significance within Hawaiian culture make it a standout destination for those seeking a different kind of aquatic beauty in the Aloha State.
Three interesting facts about Hawaii
01
Mauna Kea
Mauna Kea, located on the Big Island, is the tallest mountain in the world, measured from its base on the ocean floor to its summit, surpassing even Mount Everest.
02
Number of Islands
Hawaii consists of 137 islands, but only 8 main islands are typically recognized: Oahu, Maui, Hawaii (the Big Island), Kauai, Molokai, Lanai, Niihau, and Kahoolawe.
03
Hawaiian Alphabet
The Hawaiian alphabet has only 13 letters: A, E, I, O, U, H, K, L, M, N, P, W, and the glottal stop represented by the ‘okina.
Must See Attractions
Waimea Canyon State Park
Nature & Parks
The “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” is an awe-inspiring red and green-hued landscape with deep gorges and cascading waterfalls, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and hikers alike.
Haleakalā National Park
Nature & Parks
Haleakalā National Park is a must-visit for its otherworldly landscapes and the awe-inspiring experience of watching the sunrise from the summit of the Haleakalā volcano. The park offers a range of activities, from hiking through its unique volcanic terrain to stargazing at one of the clearest night skies in the world.
Pearl Harbor National Memorial
Speciality Museums
The memorial commemorates the historical events of December 7, 1941, when the surprise attack by the Japanese on Pearl Harbor led to the United States’ entry into World War II, honouring the lives lost and preserving the memory of the pivotal moment in history.
Where to Sleep
Pet-friendly
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The Round House
Big River
- 3
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Pet-friendly
Villa Santorini
Gary
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Pet-friendly
Camp Baxter
Gary
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Pet-friendly
Sandhill Flat
Gary
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- 1
Pet-friendly
- 6
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Lakes to Explore
1. Wailua Reservoir (Kauai)
Wailua Reservoir offers calm waters perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding, surrounded by lush green landscapes.
2. Halulu Lake (Molokai)
Halulu Lake is a secluded freshwater oasis surrounded by tropical vegetation, ideal for a peaceful canoeing, paddleboarding, or kayaking adventure.
4. Lake Waiau (Big Island)
Lake Waiau is a high-altitude alpine lake at an elevation of over 13,000 feet, where paddleboarding offers a unique experience.
5. Green Lake (Maui)
Tucked away in a volcanic crater, Green Lake is known for its crystal-clear waters, providing an excellent setting for snorkeling and exploring the vibrant underwater world.
6. Kapoho Tide Pools (Big Island)
These water pools on the eastern coast offer superb snorkeling opportunities, with colorful marine life in a unique geological setting.
7. Waimea Canyon Reservoir (Kauai)
This reservoir offers water activities such as boating and fishing and is surrounded by the stunning landscapes of Waimea Canyon.
8. Nuuanu Reservoir (Oahu)
This reservoir is a peaceful spot for canoeing and kayaking, offering a refreshing escape outside Honolulu.
Annual Events and Festivals
TBA 2025
Merrie Monarch Festival
The Merrie Monarch Festival celebrates traditional Hawaiian hula and cultural heritage. Established in 1963 in honor of King David Kalakaua, known as the “Merrie Monarch” for his fondness of the arts, the festival has evolved into one of the most prestigious hula competitions globally.
The event showcases the grace, storytelling, and rhythmic movements of hula but also emphasizes the importance of preserving and perpetuating Hawaiian culture. Beyond the competitions, the festival includes a parade, arts and crafts fairs, exhibitions, and cultural demonstrations.
Saturday, October 26, 2024
Ironman World Championship
The Ironman World Championship is the pinnacle of endurance and athleticism, drawing elite athletes and enthusiasts from around the globe to the rugged terrain of Kailua-Kona on the Big Island. The event comprises a 2.4-mile swim in Kailua Bay, followed by a demanding 112-mile bike ride through lava fields, and culminating in a marathon run of 26.2 miles along the hot and challenging coastal course.
November 1 – 10, 2024
Kona Coffee Cultural Festival
The Kona Coffee Cultural Festival pays homage to the island’s world-renowned coffee. This festival is a sensory delight for coffee enthusiasts and visitors alike. Amidst the lush coffee plantations of Kona, festivalgoers can participate in farm tours, coffee tastings, and educational seminars that delve into the intricate process of cultivating and producing Kona coffee. The festival also features a lively street fair with local artisans, live music, and food vendors.
Top Hiking Trails
Kilauea Iki Trail and Crater Rim Trail
Kīlauea Iki Overlook Parking Lot, Volcano, Hawaii
The trail takes hikers through the volcanic landscapes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island. The Kilauea Iki Trail ventures through the heart of the Kilauea Iki Crater, providing hikers with a surreal experience as they traverse a stark, otherworldly landscape marked by hardened lava flows and steam vents. This trail, approximately four miles and takes 90 minutes to complete, guides adventurers across the crater floor and into rainforest surroundings, offering a striking contrast to the desolate volcanic terrain.
Diamond Head Crater Trailhead
Kapahulu, Honolulu, Hawaii
This iconic hike takes you to the summit of Diamond Head Crater, offering panoramic views of Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean.
The trail is relatively short but steep, combining switchbacks, stairs, and tunnels.
Kalalau Trail
Nā Pali Coast, Kauai, Hawaii
This world-famous trail along the Na Pali Coast is one of the most beautiful and challenging hikes in Hawaii.
The full trail is 22 miles round-trip and requires a permit, but even a shorter hike to Hanakapi’ai Beach or Hanakapi’ai Falls offers incredible scenery.
Best Golf Courses
Kapalua’s Plantation Course
2000 Plantation Club Dr, Lahaina, Hawaii
Kapalua’s Plantation Course is renowned for its views and challenging design. Designed by Ben Crenshaw and Bill Coore, this championship course is nestled amidst rolling hills overlooking the Pacific Ocean, providing golfers with a scenic experience unlike any other. The course has generous fairways, undulating greens, and strategic bunkering, creating an engaging and fair test for players of all skill levels. Enjoy the panoramic view from the 18th hole, where the Pacific stretches endlessly before the golfer. Host to the annual Sentry Tournament of Champions, the course has welcomed some of the world’s top golfers.
Manele Golf Course
1 Challenge Dr, Lanai City, Hawaii
Perched atop the cliffs of Lanai, the course is a golfing masterpiece, offering a blend of challenging play and stunning natural beauty. Designed by Jack Nicklaus, this 18-hole championship course is renowned for its ocean views, lava outcroppings, and manicured fairways. The challenging layout demands strategic shot-making, with undulating greens and strategically placed hazards ensuring an engaging round for players of all levels.
Ocean Course at Hokuala
3351 Ho’Olaulea Wy, Lihue, Hawaii
Designed by golf legend Jack Nicklaus, this 18-hole championship course offers golfers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged cliffs, and tropical landscapes. Renowned for its thoughtful design, the Ocean Course offers a strategic challenge with undulating fairways, well-placed bunkers, and greens that demand precision. The layout takes full advantage of the coastal setting, with several holes hugging the shoreline, providing a sense of serenity as the waves crash against the rocks.
Water Sports
Hanauma Bay Snorkel Adventures
Snorkeling
Snorkeling invites adventurers to explore the vibrant underwater world that teems with marine life. With its crystal-clear turquoise waters and coral reefs, Hawaii’s snorkeling sites offer a kaleidoscope of colors and shapes beneath the surface. Popular spots like Hanauma Bay on Oahu (check out Hanauma Bay Snorkel Adventures!), Molokini Crater off Maui, and Kealakekua Bay on the Big Island provide easy access to stunning coral formations and schools of tropical fish. Snorkelers may encounter sea turtles gliding through the water, colorful reef fish darting among the coral, and, if lucky, spinner dolphins.
Surf N Sea
Surfing
With its origins rooted in ancient Hawaiian traditions, the sport has evolved into a global mecca for wave riders. From the legendary North Shore of Oahu to the breaks of Waikiki and Maui’s Jaws, Hawaii offers a diverse range of surf spots catering to all skill levels. The North Shore attracts the world’s best surfers during the winter months when colossal waves, some reaching over 30 feet, challenge even the most seasoned riders. Be sure to check out Surf N Sea for all gear and lessons while on the North Shore.
Parasailing Hawaii
Parasailing
Parasailing Hawaii offers an exhilarating and awe-inspiring way to witness the islands’ beauty from a unique perspective. With its crystal-clear waters and stunning coastal landscapes, Hawaii provides an ideal backdrop for this airborne adventure. As participants are gently lifted into the sky while tethered to a colorful parachute, they are treated to panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, green mountains, and iconic shorelines.
Resorts to Explore
Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
Luxury, Couples
1571 Poipu Rd, Koloa, Hawaii 96756
Volcano Village Lodge
Family-friendly, Retreat
19-4183 Kawailehua Rd, Volcano, Hawaii 96785
OUTRIGGER Kona Resort & Spa
Family-friendly, Couples
78-128 Ehukai St, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740
Tips on Vacationing in Hawaii
Respect Nature
Hawaii is home to diverse ecosystems and unique wildlife. Follow Leave No Trace principles, stay on marked trails, and avoid disturbing local flora and fauna.
Embrace Culture
Attend a traditional luau, try local cuisine, and participate in cultural activities. Hawaii has a rich heritage, and immersing yourself in the local culture enhances your overall experience.
Choose the Right Island(s)
Each Hawaiian island offers unique attractions and experiences. Research the islands to decide which one(s) aligns with your interests. Oahu is great for history and nightlife, Maui for luxury and beaches, the Big Island for volcanoes and diverse landscapes, and Kauai for lush scenery and outdoor adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions about Hawaii Vacations
Luxury vacation homes in Hawaii can be found on all major islands—Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island. Each island offers its unique charm, natural beauty, and various activities. Ultimately, the best island for your luxury vacation rental will depend on your preferences and interests.
Hawaii is a year-round destination, boasting warm temperatures and stunning scenery throughout the year. However, the best time to rent a vacation home in Hawaii depends on your priorities. For the best prices and fewest crowds, visit during the shoulder seasons (April to May and September to October). If you don’t mind higher prices and want the best weather conditions for outdoor activities, plan your vacation during the peak travel seasons (late December to early April and June to August).
Yes, there are long-term rental options for vacation homes in Hawaii. Many property owners offer monthly rental rates, which can be more cost-effective than nightly or weekly rates. However, due to zoning restrictions, long-term rentals in areas like Honolulu may require a minimum rental term of 30 days per tenant.
Kauai and the Big Island are known for their luscious green landscapes and calm beaches. In contrast, the Big Island is famous for its active volcanoes, lava fields, and diverse climates, providing unique sightseeing opportunities. Both islands have various vacation rental options at different prices, so your choice should be based on which island’s attractions and activities appeal to you most.
Yes, it is possible to book a last-minute vacation rental in Hawaii. However, availability might be limited, and you may have to be more flexible with your desired location, type of accommodation, and the specific rental property. To increase your chances of finding an available rental, try searching across multiple platforms like Lake, VRBO, Airbnb, and local real estate agencies specializing in vacation rentals.