Your Guide to the Ultimate Hawaiian Vacation

June 27, 2016

Hawaii is, for so many people, the ultimate vacation destination. The Lifestyle List and I have teamed up with Hilton Garden Inn to send YOU on the ultimate Hawaiian vacation and here’s what you can do while you’re there!

What to do

Snorkel

Snorkel to view bright corals, tropical fish, and sea turtles. Hawaii has some of the best snorkeling spots in the world where you’ll be able to see under the sea and be amazed at the underwater ecosystem. I recommend going with a guide so that you’ll know the best spots, and be educated on the proper safety techniques as well all that’s going on around you. Snorkeling must be a part of your ultimate Hawaiian vacation!

Sunbathe

Sunbathing on one of the many beaches that dot the 750 miles of coastline.There’s nothing better than listening to the wind in the palm trees, hearing the waves crash onto the sand, and sipping on a cold drink. The beaches are abundant and all so different from each other, from black sand beaches to volcanic views and surfing Hawaiian beaches have it all.

Kayaking

I recommend kayaking the to the Mokulua Islands. Taking a scenic kayak tour is necessary while you’re in Hawaii, the perfect addition to your ultimate Hawaiian vacation itinerary. It’s a great way to explore the island while catching some sun and getting an arm work out in! The Mokulua Islands are the perfect kayaking adventure spot. Enjoy a picnic lunch, some relaxation on the beach, and many photo opportunities here.

Resort Amenities

The new Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay is the perfect host for your ultimate Hawaiian vacation. With amenities such as rentals and a concierge you’ll never have to question what there is to do on the island. Relax by the pool or in the spa with some lunch and a fruity drink, rent a bike and cruise around the island, or dine in one of the on-property restaurants. With the beach less than 100 feet away, grab a towel and lounge on the private beach while enjoying the view of Oahu. The Hilton Garden Inn will help you have the Hawaiian adventure of your dreams while making you feel at home in their hotel.

What to see

Whale watching

Go whale-watching during humpback migration season (December—April). This is truly a sight to see! Seeing the whale migration is a bucket list item that deserves to be checked off during your ultimate Hawaiian vacation. Enjoy hearing the whale calls and seeing these huge animals migrate through the water while sitting on the pristine beaches that Hawaii has to offer.

Visit Haleakala

Visit Haleakala for sunrise. Catching sunrise over a crater from over 10,000 feet above sea level provides an unforgettable experience as a part of your ultimate Hawaiian vacation. Seeing a sunset as beautiful as the ones that Hawaii has to offer is more than worth getting up early for. Take a day trip to Haleakala and sit atop this gorgeous mountain while you’re watching the sunrise in awe. There is truly nothing like a sunrise in Hawaii and this will be a day you’ll never forget.

Where to go

Oahu

Visit Oahu during your ultimate Hawaiian vacation. As Hawaii’s most popular island, and central hub, this island has everything. Here you’ll find some of the world’s best golfing, spas, beaches, and more. Dining and nightlife are also lively on this vibrant Hawaiian island. You can make a visit to Oahu as relaxed or as adventurous as you’d like. With hiking and zipline adventures or beaches and private cabanas this is a perfect place to visit if you want to have it all.

Maui

Maui is the perfect destination for your ultimate Hawaiian vacation no matter what type of experience you want to have. A visit to Maui aka the Valley Island will be nothing short of breathtakingly beautiful. With two volcanoes on either side of the island there is plenty of hiking here. Blessed with miles of beautiful beaches, the beauty of this island is unparalleled. It’s the perfect place for a honeymoon or anniversary trip, but be careful, it might be hard to find time to relax with all of the things to do on this island. Imagine horseback riding along the beach, relaxing in the sand, or ziplining through the jungle. All of these are possible on a vacation to Maui.

The Road to Hana on Maui

When we traveled to Hawaii, we rented a Jeep and drove on the Road to Hana. The road has a lot of unique stops to swim, sightsee, take photos and visit waterfalls. It doesn’t take a lot of time to get around because the island isn’t too big. It’s a great way to see the island and was a built-in road trip getting us acquainted with the beautiful scenery.

No matter what you do while on your ultimate Hawaiian vacation, you’ll have an amazing time getting to know the locals, relaxing on the beach, and exploring the island. Whether it’s your first time or your 5th, there is so much to do and explore in this beautiful state, all without a passport! If you’ve been to Hawaii, share your experiences and pictures below. If you take any of my recommendations I’d love to hear about your experiences! Have fun and aloha!

You can enter for your chance to win a vacation to Hawaii by heading over to The Lifestyle List’s website and using the form to enter from June 18 – July 2, 2016. The winner will be announced on The Lifestyle List’s Instagram @LifestyleListTV on July 3, 2016 at 4 pm ET.