Waikiki serves up luxurious accommodation next to sparkling blue waters.Source: Edmund GarmanWhat to do in Hawaii
The state of Hawaii is made up of eight main islands - seven of which are inhabited - as well as numerous smaller atolls scattered throughout the archipelago. Here's an introduction to a few of them.
Oahu - For many travellers, Oahu is the gateway to Hawaii. Home to the capital of Honolulu, there's so shortage of things to see and do here, from surfing up a storm on the North Shore, to visiting the historic Pearl Harbour.
The resort neighbourhood of Waikiki is an excellent place to drop your bags, and at the Ilikai Hotel you can even pick up your Hawaiian hire car, arranged by a few easy clicks with DriveNow. For a truly magical experience that will please travellers both young and young at heart, check in at the Hawaii Disney Aulani Resort, where you can pick up your DriveNow hire car from the comfort of your hotel.
Hawai'i (Big Island) - As the island's nickname suggests, Hawai'i is the biggest in the island chain, boasting black sand beaches and the active Kilauea volcano. In addition to its lush greenery, the Big Island is also the location for some of the state's top hotels and resorts. Amongst them is the Hawaii Hilton Waikoloa Village on the Kona coast, with its very own canals weaving through the resort, which can be navigated by canal boats or on board the resort tram. To sweeten the deal, the Hilton Waikoloa is another place where you can pick up a hire car in Hawaii through DriveNow.
Kauai - Situated at the northernmost point of the island chain, you can get away from it all in Kauai. The oldest Hawaiian isle, Kauai is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty. Cruise the azure waters of the Napoli coast, or take a kayak down the Wailua River for a truly unique experience. Once you've picked up your hire car in Koloa, you can also make the trip up to Waimea Canyon. Considered to be 'Hawaii's Grand Canyon' Waimea's spectacular views are unforgettable.
Maui - There's a lot to love about the small town vibes of Maui. Also known as the 'Valley Isle', the pristine natural landscapes here are truly something to be remembered - soak up the beauty of Maui at Iao Valley, or head to the summit of Haleakala for a breathtaking sunrise.
Molokai - For a glimpse into the Hawaii of the past, head to Molokai. The island's deeply historic roots make it a fascinating place to learn more about Hawaii - it's even considered to be the birthplace of hula!
Lanai - This smaller island offers a secluded getaway with numerous luxury resorts and an 18-hole golf course.
For most people, the marquee destination for a trip to Hawaii is the state’s capital city of Honolulu, located on the island of O’ahu. Also the largest city amongst the hundreds of islands that make up the state, Honolulu is a tropical paradise that has plenty to do and see for travellers of all ages and interests.
Waikiki
The epicentre of much of O’ahu’s action, the area in and around Waikiki is where you’ll find many of the most popular places to stay and awesome beach action.
With an exceptional coastal location on the southern edge of O’ahu, this seaside resort is one of the easiest ways to make sure you have just about everything just outside your doorstep or within a decent, but not too stressful, walk. There are heaps of awesome options to choose from, but it’s hard to go past Halekulani, which has long been a favourite of those on vacation (or locals on staycation). Its alluring “seven shades of white” design scheme provides a perfect contrast for the amazing scenes outside your window, giving you an even better chance to focus your full attention on the natural beauty all around you.
Kalakaua Avenue
You don’t have to stay at Waikiki or other accommodation right on the beach to enjoy your time in O’ahu. Kalakaua Avenue is considered the main street in Honolulu (and often referred to as “town” if you’re staying down near the coast”) and is where you’ll find plenty of action if you’re looking for shopping, restaurants, and other accommodation options. Although we can’t blame you if you don’t want to leave your beachside digs, if you need to hit up the shops for some retail therapy or just want a change of scenery, Kalakaua Avenue provides plenty of options just a short walk away.
The Road is Calling
One of the best ways to see all of Honolulu and the rest of O’ahu is in a hire car. DriveNow’s car rental in Hawaii is a particularly convenient way to get your hands on keys that can help you get outside of Honolulu and see what else the island has in store.
There are plenty of other awesome attractions within a short drive of the capital. Did you know a full drive around the island can be finished in just one day? If you’re just after a bit of a cruise with the wind in your hair, the sun shining down, and gorgeous views to accompany you, hop in your Hawaii car rental, turn the key, and throw that puppy into drive! But you’d be doing yourself a disservice if that was the only time you got out and about, as there is a stack of fantastic places to stop as your circumnavigate the island.
Make some time for La’ie Point State Wayside state park in the northeastern portion of the island. If you consider yourself a thrillseeker, join in on the extreme cliff diving at La’ie Point. Your terror before and during your descent will be matched by the amazing sensation of splashing into the surf below.
The Seven Mile Miracle is one of the world’s most famous surfing havens.Source: surfertoday.comIf you want to cut up the middle of the island, you can make your way from Waikiki up the H2 to the HI-99 North and hit the famed North Shore. There you’ll find the beloved Seven Mile Miracle stretch of beaches that features some of the best surfing in all of Hawaii.