New sensations in Hawaii

By admin

Oahu

After lapping up the sunshine at the popular Waikiki beach, head away from the crowds to explore a few uninhabited beaches with Wild Side Specialty Tours. This experience takes participants to lesser-known areas of untouched coastlines and coral reefs. Wild dolphins are even known to interact with people along these coastlines, so keep your eyes peeled.

Soak up the sounds of Hawaii at the annual ukulele festival held every July at Kapi’olani Park. It’s hard not to dance along to the infectious music which is the perfect accompanying tune for the sunny island lifestyle. Now in its 44th year, this festival has become a summer tradition in Hawaii, with locals, ukulele fans and visitors to the island all coming down to enjoy the beach boys vibe. The event will take place from July 18 to 20.

Oahu is also home to the Ala Moana Centre, the world’s largest outdoor shopping centre. Despite boasting 290 shops and restaurants in the complex it is still expanding, with the recent announcement that Bloomingdales will also be opening in late 2015.

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Kauai

Rest and relaxation is easy to find on the island of Kauai, with its seemingly-endless coastline, serene rivers and top of the range spas.

It isn’t a trip to Hawaii without some quality beach time. Spend a few days lazing on the palm tree lined shoreline or floating through the tranquil blue waters of Salt Pond Beach Park, just one of Kauai’s many beautiful beaches.

If a good pampering is what you need to de-stress then head to the Koloa Landing at Poipu Beach Resort. The hotel has just unveiled a new spa facility, where guests indulge in relaxing Hawaiian styled spa treatments. The facilities, inspired by the rich natural landscapes of Kauai also offer couple rooms so you and that special someone can treat yourself together.

The property also has an eco-friendly package for guests who want to do their bit to help preserve the island. The Save Kauai package will provide guests with a $50 credit that may be redeemed at local shops.

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Maui

Immerse yourself in local life on a trip to the friendly rural community of Hana on Maui’s lush northeast coast. The little town is a world away from the bustling Kahului, however the real experience is the trip there. The twisty Hana Highway winds its past the azure ocean, rushing waterfalls, tropical forests and fresh fruit-bearing trees while crossing 54 one-lane bridges along the route.

The dynamic natural spectacle spreads through the island, with Haleakala National Park home to a number of endangered species and Maui’s highest peak. Visitors can also wander above the clouds by hiking to the summit. Some adventurers even bike ride their way back downhill before spending the night under the Hawaiian stars at the camping sites located within the park.

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Hawaii

Hidden among the luxurious shopping hubs on the big island of Hawaii are local craftsman and island-wear stores. The shops at Mauna Lani provide a perfect combination of big name fashion brands and local artistry. Here you can find one-of-a-kind gifts, local art and fine dining all in the one location.

Beyond the beautiful scenery and shopping strips, Hawaii has a rich culture of its own and some of the friendliest people on earth. The aloha spirit is on show yearly in the Merrie Monarch Festival, a week-long cultural festival on the island which concludes with what many consider the world’s premier hula competition. Pick up some hula tricks and watch as the female soloists and hula schools from around the world take your breath away with their wide smiles and shimmying straw skirts.

For those heading to the mainland of Hawaii soon, Mauna Kea Resort is offering a Spring into Summer promotion with reduced room rates, a daily buffet for two as well as a $300 resort credit for food and beverages.

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Lanai and Molokai

For all those loved up couples wanting a romantic escape, look no further than Lanai and Molokai. These islands tend to have fewer visitors than the bigger islands, so they provide quiet beaches where your partner is often the only other person in sight. Don’t miss the glowing sunset views from the white sand beaches, or head to Kapuaiwa Coconut Grove on Molokai to see the colours of the sky transform above the swaying coconut trees.

The Four Seasons Resorts Lanai at Manele Bay provides a perfect setting for a luxury getaway, with wedding and honeymoon packages also available.

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