Hawaii Fly & Drive

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.

ABOUT THE DESTINATION: Maui, often called “The Valley Isle,” blends dramatic volcanic landscapes with lush rainforests and some of Hawaii’s most iconic beaches. At its heart rises Haleakalā, a massive dormant volcano whose summit sits above the clouds. Many visitors make the pre-dawn pilgrimage to watch sunrise from Haleakalā National Park, then explore the alien-like cinder cones and high-altitude trails that stretch across the crater. Later in the day, the park’s lower Kipahulu district reveals a different side of Maui, with waterfalls, coastal views and bamboo forests. Along the west and south coasts, golden-sand beaches frame clear, warm waters ideal for swimming, snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding. Kāʻanapali and Wailea offer full-service resorts, oceanfront paths and easy access to reefs where you might spot turtles and tropical fish just offshore. In winter, humpback whales migrate through the ʻAuʻau Channel, and boat tours from Lahaina or Māʻalaea Harbor bring you close to these gentle giants. As evening falls, beachside restaurants and traditional lūʻaus combine island cuisine with hula and live music. For a taste of old Hawaii, wander the historic streets of Lahaina (subject to ongoing recovery after recent wildfires; check current conditions before visiting) or head upcountry to the cooler slopes of Kula and Makawao. Here you’ll find farmers’ markets, ranch lands, local art galleries and small eateries showcasing farm-to-table ingredients. Food trucks across the island serve everything from poke bowls and shave ice to inventive fusion dishes, making casual dining a highlight of any stay. No trip to Maui is complete without driving at least part of the famous Road to Hāna. This narrow, winding route along the island’s northeast coast passes dozens of waterfalls, black- and red-sand beaches, and lookout points with sweeping Pacific views. Plan to take it slow, stop frequently, and respect local communities and fragile ecosystems along the way. Whether you spend your time hiking, surfing, or simply relaxing on the sand, Maui’s mix of adventure and tranquility leaves a lasting impression.