Oahu & Big Island

ABOUT THE DESTINATION: Honolulu is the county seat of the City and County of Honolulu. It is the state capital and the most populous city in the state of Hawaii. Situated on the island of Oahu, it is known worldwide as a major tourist destination. Honolulu is the main gateway to Hawaii and a major gateway into the United States of America. It is also a major hub for international business, military defence, as well as famously being host to a diverse variety of east-west and Pacific culture, cuisine, and traditions. The most important places to visit in Honolulu are: Kane'ohe, Polynesian Cultural Center, Bishop Museum and Planetarium, Pearl Harbor, Iolani Palace, Capitol District, Waikiki Oceanfront and Honolulu Academy of the Arts. Honolulu has sunny skies, crystal blue water, white-sand beaches, slack key guitars at sunset, and lots of hula dancing that represent the Aloha spirit.

ABOUT THE DESTINATION: Hawaii Island, often called the Big Island, is the largest and geologically youngest of the Hawaiian Islands, offering dramatic contrasts in scenery and climate. Here you can stroll across hardened lava fields in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, wander through lush rainforests, and relax on white-, black-, and even green-sand beaches all in a single day. The island’s laid-back atmosphere and less crowded feel compared to other Hawaiian islands make it ideal for travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility. Most visitors divide their time between the sunny Kona side on the west coast and the greener, more local-feeling Hilo side on the east. Kailua-Kona is the hub for ocean activities: snorkeling with manta rays at night, coffee farm tours in the famous Kona coffee belt, and exploring historic sites like Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park. Hilo, by contrast, offers cascading waterfalls such as ʻAkaka Falls, botanical gardens, and easy access to the island’s volcanic landscapes. Outdoor enthusiasts will find endless options. You can hike across the Kīlauea Iki crater, explore lava tubes, or star-gaze near the summit of Maunakea, one of the best astronomical observation points in the world (be sure to go with a guided tour and respect cultural sensitivities). Along the Kohala Coast, luxury resorts sit beside excellent snorkeling spots and calm beaches, while North Kohala’s backroads lead to verdant valleys like Pololū, where a short hike rewards you with expansive coastal views. To deepen your experience, take time to learn about Native Hawaiian culture and history, still very much alive on Hawaii Island. Visit cultural centers and heiau (temples), attend a local hula or music event, and sample island cuisine—from poke and fresh ahi to loco moco and shave ice. Driving is essential for exploring the Big Island, so plan a flexible itinerary and allow extra time for scenic stops; the journey between sights is often as memorable as the destinations themselves.