Discover the aloha islands
Hawaii Holidays
Polynesia’s northernmost island group, Hawaii is about 4,350km from Vancouver and 7,000km from Auckland. Either way, it’s the perfect excuse for a trans-Pacific stop-over. Paradise with a puff of volcanic steam, this spectacular archipelago has a heady mix of lava flows, waterfall-doused sea cliffs, verdant jungle valleys and golden-sand beaches. Whether you stay three nights, a week or even two, the islands of Oahu, Hawaii and Maui are easy to explore.
The international airport at Honolulu is the main entry point for most of Hawaii’s visitors connecting with various hubs in the US. There are also direct flights from from Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane in Australia as well as Auckland in New Zealand making it a great pairing for a trip Down Under.
Hawaii in pictures
With many idyllic properties to choose from, we recommend stays of 4 nights or longer in order to fully immerse yourself in island life and explore your surrounds, however longer itineraries are encouraged, particularly when combining multiple islands.
Best Time to Visit Hawaii
Average temperatures vary little between summer and winter in Hawaii, but rainfall can be heavier in the winter between November to March, though is often very localised. The average daytime highs range from 27-32°C, while average lows are 18-24°C. For the best all-round weather, aim to visit Hawaii in the dry summer season from April to October, which is ideal for hiking and snorkelling.
However, the wet, winter season is the best time for whale watching, with migratory humpbacks arriving in the coastal waters during late November and December often staying until May.
July and August are peak months in summer and as you’d expect, Hawaii is busy (and more expensive) during Christmas and the New Year. With the school holidays over, September is an excellent month to visit with fewer crowds and idyllic sea conditions for snorkelling.
Notable Dates
January to February: Maui Whale Festival
March: Honolulu Festival – Hawaii’s premier cultural event
1 May: Lei Day - a state-wide celebration of the culturally iconic symbol
Where to visit in Hawaii
Oahu
The third largest and most populous of the Hawaiian Islands, Oahu is sometimes locally referred to as ‘The Gathering Place’. A blend of modern western culture and traditional Pacific values, the island is home to the vibrant capital city of Honolulu as well as laidback surf towns.
Catch the surf or a sunset at Waikiki Beach
Visit the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbour
Snorkel in ring-shaped Hanuama Bay
Spot humpback whales off the Windward Coast
Maui
Commonly referred to as The Valley Isle, if you like exploring away from the crowds then Maui is the Hawaiian island for you. A short 30-minute connecting flight from Honolulu, it offers beautiful volcanic landscapes, delectable cuisine and stunning beaches. As the greenest of the islands, it is ideal for relaxation and with secluded beachside accommodation.
Watch the sunrise from legendary Haleakala crater 10,023 feet above sea level
Hike across lava flows and through bamboo forests
Snorkel over colourful coral reefs and hidden sea caves
Journey along the scenic 'Road to Hana' past rainforests and waterfalls
Island of Hawaii
By far the largest of island in the archipelago, Hawaii is also known as ‘Big Island’. About 45 minutes flight from Honolulu, it has no less than five volcanoes, which contribute to its diverse landscape and a staggering 13 climate zones. Volcanic features are softened by lush valleys, emerald jungles, plunging waterfalls and sandy beaches.
See lava lakes, smoking craters and hardened lava flows in Volcanoes National Park
Fly high over the mountainous terrain on an adrenaline pumping helicopter ride
Head out into the idyllic waters to dive, snorkel or swim with dolphins
Stroll along the black sands of Punaluu Beach and look for green sea turtles
Small Ship Cruising in Hawaii
Experience Hawaii’s rich Polynesian heritage, spectacular natural wonders, and abundant wildlife on a 7-night cruise around the islands of Moloka’i, Lana’i, Maui and Hawaii aboard the 36-guest boutique yacht, Safari Explorer.
Perfectly designed to combine comfort with adventure, the ship features an intimate wine library and spa area including a large on-deck hot tub, fitness equipment, yoga classes, and a complimentary massage. Adventure equipment onboard includes kayaks, stand-up paddle boards and inflatable skiffs so you can fully immerse yourself in the beautiful landscape.
- Encounter dolphins and whales in the Humpback National Marine Sanctuary
- Snorkel amongst abundant coral gardens and a sea turtle habitat
- Learn island history at the Lana’i Culture and Heritage Centre
- Discover secret waterfalls and spectacular vistas on shore landings
Why book with Discover the World
Holidays tailor made for you
24/7 holiday support
First hand destination experience
Full financial protection and flexibility
