By Kelly Stoneman

Visitors to Hawaii select Kauai for a variety of reasons. Perfect for couples, families, weddings and large groups alike, you are certain to be pleasantly surprised to find such a diverse selection of vacation accommodations.

Whatever your expectations, finding a property that is just right for you is a snap with options ranging from lavish ocean and beach front homes and secluded cottages to condominiums featuring all of the amenities of a resort, including swimming pools, tennis, golf and more.

Discounted Rental Rates and Activity Combinations

The island of Kauai offers a wonderful combination of budget-friendly and luxury accommodations. The current economy can quite often make prices somewhat negotiable, especially during low season and for longer stays.

There are many agencies that offer the additional benefit of combining your perfect place to stay with activities, travel guides, insider tips and even rental cars. Most of these options offer substantial savings when booking everything together as a package. You should never hesitate to ask; you just might be pleasantly surprised!

Additional Kauai Travel Tips

Selecting your ideal agent may seem a daunting task; however, if you establish from the beginning that you are dealing with a company located in Hawaii this will ensure that you are getting information from those who truly know the island and all it has to offer.

* KAUAI’S NORTH SHORE

Kauai’s North Shore is enchanting, with a blend of rugged mountains, cascading waterfalls, eclectic towns with unique shops, galleries and a variety of dining options that will treat you to a variety of delights.

Enjoy the lap of luxury in the upscale resort area of Princeville, play a round of golf on a premier course, visit one of many incredible beaches or spend a romantic honeymoon in the villages of Hanalei, Wainiha and Haena.

Your choices are varied, ranging from historic bed & breakfasts, secluded cottages, charming inns and rental homes.

* SOUTHERN KAUAI

The sunny South shore offers a multitude of things to do! Poipu, a beautiful yet casual resort area and Kalaheo make up the main areas of the South Shore. Numerous beaches, oceanfront resorts, a variety of private vacation rentals, an upscale shopping district and the wonders of nature are but a few of the rewards you’ll enjoy.

Kayaking, snorkeling, horseback riding and swimming are among the activities all ages can enjoy. Scenic rocky coastlines, walking trails, waterfalls, and picture-perfect golden sand beaches make it difficult to determine which activity to choose first!

* EAST KAUAI

Aptly named the “Coconut Coast”, Kauai’s East Side is steeped in history and culture. The landscape is accented with coconut palms and it is here that the coconut grove comes to life! Take advantage of offerings such as the Wailua River State Park, Fern Grotto, Wailua Falls, and other gems.

The beaches of the Coconut Coast are its biggest draw, with Anahola as its northernmost beach. Another asset of the Coconut Coast is Lydgate Park and it’s two lava rock enclosed ocean pools. They are a welcome respite for children, families and beginning snorkelers.

Kapaa and the surrounding areas of Lihue and Wailua offer wonderfully affordable rentals right on the beach as well as great shopping, with a melange of funky and fine items, including Hawaiian crafts, souvenirs, jewelry and fine art.

* KAUAI’S WESTERN SHORE

While a large portion of Kauai’s Western shore is made up of the stunning Na Pali Coast and the grandeur of the Waimea Canyon, this region offers the country charm of Hanapepe Town, unsurpassed hiking amidst rare plants and endangered birds and so much more!

Polihale State Park is home to Hawaii’s longest stretch of sandy beach, making it a sunbather’s Utopia! Surrounded by picturesque cliffs, clear skies and crashing waves, you could spend a whole day just taking in the beauty.

Beautiful rental homes and quaint cottages and even beachfront resorts offer a nice variety of places to stay in several small villages, including Waimea, Hanapepe and Kekaha.

Finding the best deals when it comes time to pay

When the time comes to pay, you just might get better deals by paying with checks. Generally, you can save additional fees by simply asking! Agencies usually pay a minimum of 4% in credit card fees, so it’s often a win-win situation.

Damage deposit for exclusive rentals

Most exclusive beach and oceanfront vacation rentals require both security and damage deposits, which can range from a few hundred dollars up to several thousand. There are usually alternative ways to avoid damage deposit charges. First and foremost, a good travel insurance policy will pay for such charges and cost a fraction of the price. You might also check with your credit card company to see what types of coverage is available by using a certain card.

While security deposits are required as the initial hold on your reservation, damage deposits may usually be handled by having a temporary hold placed on your credit card, rather than a charge. If all goes well and no damage to property is reported, credit card holds are free of charge and released within 2 weeks of your departure.

Security Deposit

Security deposits are deducted from your final rental balance, with final payment usually due 30-90 days prior to arrival on the island

Always remember, by properly researching and examining a variety of options, you are more likely to choose the Kauai vacation rental that is best for you. Most everything you need, including photographs, full descriptions, guest reviews and rate information is on travel websites.

Need additional information? You can typically contact an agent email or telephone. Hop on the web and find your perfect Kauai oasis today!

By Kelly Stoneman

The Big Island of Hawai’i is so named for its size, as it is bigger than all of the other islands combined. Most areas still offer a true feeling of the Hawai’i of old. Whether seeking an adventurous vacation, a luxury experience or a romantic hideaway, this island is a favorite!

Discounted Rental Rates and Activity Combinations
While there are a wide range of accommodations and prices, with the current economy, most are often negotiable and many locations are discounted, especially during low season. Never hesitate to ask; you might just be surprised!

Many agencies offer the added benefit of combining your ideal place to stay with activities, travel guides, insider tips and even rental cars. Substantial savings are often available when booking everything together as a package.

Additional Big Island Travel Tips
It is a good idea to make sure you are dealing with a locally based company. This will ensure that you are getting information from those who truly know the island and can provide insider tips.

The Big Island by Region
Each region offers it’s own unique charm and they are vastly different. Eleven different climate zones allow for lush rain forests, arid deserts, snow-capped mountains, various beaches and the only active volcano in Hawaii.

* The Kohala Coast
The Kohala coast is home to a variety of some of the most luxurious accommodations on the island, especially in Waikoloa and Mauna Lani. With a variety of five star resorts, condominiums and rental homes, for those seeking luxury, world-class golf and first-class amenities, this is the place to be!

While there are fewer beaches on the Big Island than any other part of the state, this area is home one of the most beautiful beaches in Hawaii, Hapuna, offering up silky sand and crystal-clear waters, with swimming and snorkeling perfect for your entire family.

The North Kohala area is enchanting, providing beauty, history and adventure! Venture away from the resorts to find some of the most culturally significant sites in all of Hawaii, including Lapahaki State Historical Park, and the charming towns of Waimea and Hawi.

* The Kona Coast
The Kona Coast includes Kailua-Kona, Kona, Keauhou and Captain Cook. This region offers a mix of budget friendly and high-end rentals.

Many visitors book their Big Island accommodations in these locations to stay close to the heart of it all. Located near many activities, shopping, entertainment and wonderful eateries, this area is the perfect choice for many family and business travelers alike.

* The Hilo, Ka’u and Puna Districts

These areas include the towns of Hilo, Kapoho and Volcano, to name but a few. There are a variety of vacation homes, small inns, B&Bs, private cottages and even luxury estates available to suit any budget.

Hilo will leave you with the feeling that you have taken a trip back in time, with centuries-old wooden storefronts, historical buildings and an oceanfront farmer’s market that is a must!

Kapoho’s tide pools, made up of coral beds filled with many different types of fish, crystal clear water, easy access and calm conditions create a perfect place for children and weaker swimmers to explore. While there is not a sandy beach, there are flat lava shelves that are perfect for sunbathing.

The village of Volcano is the perfect honeymoon destination! With Kilauea National Park just a short drive from a number of lovely rentals, you might consider spending at least a night or two here to allow ample time for exploration.

* The Hamakua Coast
Head North from Hilo and you will be rewarded with the scenic Hamakua Coast, with stellar ocean views, lush rainforests and lovely botanical gardens.

Rental options are primarily offered in private vacation homes and quaint cottages, making this the perfect area for those looking to get away from it all, whether planning your family reunion, a corporate retreat or a secluded honeymoon.

Finding the Best Deals When it Comes Time to Pay
When the time comes to pay, you just might get better deals by paying with checks. Generally, you can save an additional 5% if you simply ask for it! Agencies usually pay a minimum of 4% in credit card fees, so it’s often a win-win situation.

Damage Deposits for Exclusive Rentals
Most Big Island vacation rentals require refundable damage deposits that can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand.

You may find ways to avoid having to fully pay damage deposit charges. First and foremost, travel insurance policies are often available and cost a fraction.

Damage deposits may also often be handled by having a temporary hold placed on your credit card. If all goes well and there is no damage, these holds are free of charge and usually released within 2 weeks of your departure.

Security Deposits
While Security Deposits are required to be paid upon confirming your reservation, they are deducted from your final balance due, usually 30-90 days prior to arrival. These charges are simply a down payment.

With a little effort, you are more likely to choose the Hawaii vacation rental that is best for you. Most everything you need may be found on travel websites, including photographs, full descriptions, guest reviews and rate information.

An email or telephone call can answer any additional questions you may have, and help you make a more personal connection. Check us out; you may find that the Big Island is just the tropical sanctuary you are seeking!

By A.R. Royo

“Bali Hai” – there are few terms that evoke the idea of romance more than this exotic location from the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical “South Pacific.” Ever since the classic 1958 movie of the same name was filmed on the Hawaiian Island of Kauai, the Garden Isle has become synonymous with the idea of dreamy tropical paradise ripe with romance, innocence and happiness.

The actual Hawaiian name for this legendary cinematic backdrop is Mount Makana on Kauai’s north shore. Its magnificent profile marks the beginning of the mystical Na Pali Coast, which provides an exotic setting for romantic sunset cruises, thrilling helicopter flights, and spectacular hiking adventures.

So let your romance flourish on Kauai and choose from two romantic Hawaii luaus with Polynesian shows and three romantic sunset cocktail or dinner cruises.

Experience a romantic Kaui sunset dinner sail while you journey along the incredible Na Pali coast aboard the 65-foot power catamaran “HoloHolo.” Help yourself to a delicious light meal, soft drinks, beer, wine and champagne as the sun sets over the tropical Pacific.

Or take a romantic sunset dinner cruise along Na Pali’s stunning coast that combines windward sailing, beer, wine and cocktails, as well as a delicious buffet dinner and a breathtaking sunset at sea with Captain Andy.

You can also choose a romantic sunset cocktail cruise along Kauai’s Southern Coast where you’ll be treated to live Hawaiian music that floats over you like the trade winds as you enjoy pupus (appetizers), “sneaky tikis,” beer and wine … and each other.

Smith’s Tropical Paradise Luau includes a spectacular ceremony in a torch-lit Lagoon Amphitheater along the famous Wailua River! The hypnotic presentation of the Luau ceremony begins with the traditional blowing of the conch shell and torch lighting. Guests are welcome to gather around for the traditional Hawaiian Imu Ceremony as the Kalua Puaa (roast pork) is unearthed from the underground oven (imu).

Grand Hyatt Kauai Luau, together with Tihati’s Havaiki Nui Polynesian show, makes for an evening you’ll always remember. Havaiki Nui, the great land of promise. Hence, these people of the sea migrated and settled throughout the Pacific establishing what we know today Polynesia – Tahiti, Samoa, Hawaii and the many people of the Pacific. Take this exciting journey of Polynesia through chant, song and dance.

Surrounded by 50 miles of white sand beaches for swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing and romantic walks together, the island of Kauai is the perfect destination to bring your romance center stage in an exotic, tropical setting.

By A.R. Royo

“The grandest place for love,” is how many couples describe the Big Island of Hawaii, where romance is painted in bold strokes on the largest of the Hawaiian Islands. They know that the Big Island is the ideal destination for a romantic getaway, or for loved ones to celebrate together, year after year.

A treasure trove of romantic possibilities, the Big Island often means adventure, too. Here, glorious days and nights provide an abundance of romantic adventure from delightful rainforest hikes, thrilling helicopter rides over waterfalls and volcanoes, to an intimate snorkeling tour or a heart-pounding swim with wild dolphins.

Come evening, it’s time to relax and enjoy a Big Island sunset cruise with that special person who brings you joy. Big Island sunset cruises depart from Kona and Waikoloa on the leeward side of the island, where the seas are calm and sunsets spectacular.

Begin an evening of magic, romance and enchantment aboard the Spirit of Kona glass-bottom boat. On this delightful sunset dinner cruise you’ll enjoy a delicious Pacific rim-style meal, complimentary Mai Tai and full premium cash bar.

Or set sail aboard the Body Glove Catamaran for a 2-hour sunset cocktail cruise that includes heavy pupus, live music and open bar, while cruising the glorious Kona Coast. Live entertainment, a terrific drink menu, and the gorgeous blue Pacific at sunset make the perfect setting for an unforgettable evening of tropical romance.

Been to a Hawaiian luau yet?  Probably not like the luscious variety offered on this sensual isle. Island Breeze Luau Show is held under the stars on the grounds of Kamehameha the Great’s former estate in Kailua Kona.  Gathering of the Kings, at The Fairmont Orchid Resort, provides a traditional Luau Show including a lei greeting for lovers, dinner and dancing.

The Royal Kona Luau Show, Legends & Legacies, invites you and your beloved to join a cast of singers, drummers, and hula dancers for a mesmerizing extravaganza. Legends of the Pacific at the Hilton Waikoloa Village, greets you with exotic Polynesian dances and music of the Pacific Rim, highlighted by an island-style feast under the stars.

On the Big island of Hawaii, it’s the little things that you’ll always remember, reliving them again and again. For this tropical isle is an epic palette where matters of the heart, have become a fine art.

By A.R. Royo

There nothing more romantic than a pleasure-filled vacation together in the tropical Hawaii Islands. Oahu is world famous for specializing in all things romantic – from enchanting sunset dinner cruises to delightful Hawaiian luaus – both offering a feast for the senses to lovers young and old alike.

Oahu sunset dinner cruises assure an amorous evening on the water along the Waikiki coastline at the most vibrant and colorful time of day. Ardor abounds on these tropical Hawaiian evenings among lovers, honeymooners, partners and those renewing their wedding vows. Many remember such enchanting tropical Hawaiian evenings as the most idyllic of their lives.

Oahu sunset dinner and cocktail cruises embark from various locations including Waikiki, Honolulu and Ko Olina. Dinner cruise boats vary in size from those carrying hundreds of passengers to boats catering to small groups of half a dozen. Most sunset dinner cruises include entertainment and dancing as well as menus offering a variety of cuisines and pricing. Most Waikiki dinner cruises also provide transportation to and from your hotel or resort.

You can fulfill your romantic Hawaiian vacation desires with a delicious sunset at sea cocktail and dinner cruise aboard “Navatek.“ Or relive the fervor of “Honolulu Boat Days” and embark in style from Honolulu’s historic Aloha Tower aboard the “Star of Honolulu.”

Dine, dance and enjoy a Polynesian show aboard Ali`i Kai, the world’s largest Polynesian catamaran, as it sail you into the sunset along the Waikiki shoreline. Or board the luxurious catamarans Maita’i and Makani for a romantic sunset sail to enjoy together, picturesque Waikiki, spectacular volcanic views and the cityscape of Honolulu.

Oahu also offers a variety of splendid luaus designed to give you a truly romantic, South Pacific experience. All include fascinating cultural activities such as the Imu roasting ceremony, delicious traditional and contemporary Hawaiian foods, and spectacular Polynesian Revues.
Your choices for Oahu luaus include award-winning Germaine’s Luau in West Oahu, Paradise Cove Luau at Ko Olina and the Royal Hawaiian Luau conveniently located on the beach in Waikiki. The Polynesian Cultural Center in windward Laie also provides a spectacular luau and show, while immersing guests in the numerous romantic cultures of the South Pacific.

If you’re looking for a blissful vacation together, look no further than the idyllic islands of Hawaii and the romance of Oahu.

By A.R. Royo

Maui is a romantic paradise that attracts couples from round the world who enjoy its tropical beauty and enchantment. The mere mention of the word “Maui” evokes images – or memories – of sharing gorgeous sunsets, walks together on pristine beaches and intimate moments under cascading waterfalls.

Maui is the destination favored by numerous vacationers, honeymooners and wedding couples, as well as those celebrating anniversaries. Maui is now one of the top wedding locations in the world, hosting more than 10,000 weddings every year.

Maui has numerous wedding planners who can coordinate the complex aspects of a romantic Hawaiian wedding including, venue, officiant, photographer, musicians, flowers and transportation. The staff at A Dream Wedding in Paradise can help you combine your Maui wedding, reception and honeymoon into one fun and easy package.

A plethora of thrilling activities makes Maui even more desirable as a venue for love and romance to honeymooning vacationers. They include helicopter tours over spectacular landscapes, dozens of romantic land and ocean activities and golfing on world-class island courses.

One of the most memorable experiences for many vacationing Maui couples is sharing an authentic Hawaiian Luau together. A delicious variety of traditional foods and drinks, featuring fantastic shows and musical revues are offered in numerous romantic settings in West Maui. Maui Luaus include the Grand Hyatt Lua, and Royal Lahaina Resort and Sheraton at Kaanapali Beach. The Cirque Hawaii and Ulalena shows also offer spectacular entertainment with dinner options available.
Maui Sunset Dinner and cocktail cruises provide an ideal occasion for creating unforgettable romantic memories together. These cruises depart from Kaanapali, Lahaina and Maalaea harbors, close to luxury resort areas many tourists and honeymoon couples choose for their Maui stay.

Share a Romantic Sunset Dinner leaving from Lahaina Harbor aboard either the Maui Kaulani or Maui Princess, where upper deck dining offers table service, stunning panoramic views, live music and dancing under the stars, on this luxury yacht.

From Kaanapali, join Trilogy Excursions for a sunset sail along the coast with gourmet pupus, cocktails and views of Lanai, Molokini and the slopes of Haleakala.  From Maalaea Harbor, lovers can sail the Alii Nui Catamaran to enjoy delicious local pupus, mai tais and other drinks, while chasing the sinking sun through the azure waters off West Maui.

No wonder that Maui offers the only destination for so many couples seeking the perfect vacation to celebrate the many splendors of love.

The oldest of Hawaii’s inhabited islands Kauai, the Garden Isle, is justly famous for its epic beauty. Kauai is actually a volcanic mountain that erupted from the floor of the Pacific Ocean six million years ago. It has been sculpted by wind and rain ever since, into a lush island paradise of raw tropical splendor and technicolor rugged canyons.

The Na Pali Coast, 14 miles of sea cliffs rising vertically 3,000 feet above a pristine wilderness shoreline, is probably Kauai’s most inspirational feature. Waimea Canyon, the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” as Mark Twain called it runs a close second.

Both features are for the most part inaccessible from the ground; they can only be seen and appreciated in their entirety from the air. Helicopter flights over Kauai allow visitors to discover these wondrous hidden places where few have ever wandered.

Two companies offer helicopter flights from Kauai, both with experienced pilots who are also licensed tour guides. Their flights provide aerial exploration of many spectacular Kauai features including: the Na Pali Coast, Bali Hai Cliffs, Hanalei Bay, Princeville, Hanapepe Valley, Mana Waiapuna (Jurassic Park Falls), Wailua Falls (Fantasy Island Waterfalls), Olokele and Waimea Canyons. Weather permitting, you can fly into the heart of an ancient volcano, Mt Waialeale, the wettest spot on earth with more than 450 inches of rain a year!

Sunshine Helicopters with two decades  of experience offers flights from both Lihue and Princeville. Sunshine provides David Clark stereo aviation headsets and a choice of either FXStar or state-of-the-art WhisperStar helicopters to discover this island’s natural treasures.

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters offers tours from Lihue aboard its new American Eurocopter ECO-Star. This state-of-the-art craft gives passengers more interior room, two-way communication with pilots via Boze headsets, and expansive glass for sweeping views of Kauai’s incomparable natural beauty.

An alternative to swimming with dolphins in captivity like Oahu’s Sea Life Park is offered on the Big Island of Hawaii. Here, you can take one of three swim-with-dolphins-in-the wild-tours from the Kona Coast of Hawaii.

Wild dolphins are not trained or fed. The ocean is their natural habitat — their home –  and humans are their welcome guests. On wild dolphin tours, participants start by watching dolphins from the boat and only join the dolphins in the water when the situation feels right.

Wild Dolphins fascinate everyobne — young and old alike with their playful, graceful and intelligent behavior. Dolphins always seem to enjoy, especially when they appear next to Hawaiian boats and dance in their bow waves. Swimming with these beautiful, sleek and graceful creatures in the open ocean is an experience no one ever forgets, or regrets.

During these programs, wild dolphins voluntarily approach the boat, and dolphins decide how close they come to the group and for how long they want to stay. Dolphin encounters can last anywhere from a few minutes to 4 hours, but they can change people forever.

Wild Dolphin Swim & Encounter – Join Phillipa or one of her team, some of Hawaii’s most experienced dolphin experts, aboard a private boat that sails to the best dolphin locations for this unique & authentic way to swim with wild dolphins!

Swimming with Wild Dolphins – Join Jon and a maximum of 6 guests for a morning of boating from Kona, ocean exploration and snorkeling with dolphins in their natural habitat.

Wild Dolphin Swim from Kona – In celebration of your join a dolphin pod as it soars out of the water and spins in the air, the signature activity of spinner dolphins. Share with the dolphins their gentle grace and sense of  absolute joy.

By A.R. Royo

One of Maui’s most popular attractions, Molokini “crater,”  is technically no crater at all. It is actually a crescent-shaped, partially submerged volcanic cinder cone. Molokini is located in the middle of the Alalakeiki Channel, about 3 miles west of South Maui’s Makena State Park, and 3 miles northeast of the island of Kaho’olawe.

Molokini’s incredibly clear water, with visibility exceeding 100 feet on most days, makes it one of the top 10 dive and snorkel spots in the world.  Accessible only by water, Molokini is also a Marine Life Conservation District and Seabird Sanctuary.

Molokini has a diameter of about 1/2mile — the back side drops off to depths of 300 feet, making it a popular location for scuba diving as well.  Its crescent shape acts as a barrier, offering protection from wind, waves and the powerful currents of the channel. Inside the crater’s 30-foot-deep basin is a lush reef that always surprises visitors with its colorful abundance and variety of marine life.

Many of the more than 250 species endemic to Hawaii can be observed here and nowhere else in the world! Its population includes parrot fish, damsel fish, butterfly fish, trigger fish, surgeon fish, Moorish idol,  eels, reef sharks and Humuhumunukunukuapuaa (the Hawaii State Fish).

Humpback whales, whale sharks, Hawaiian rays, Hawaiian monk seals and spinner dolphins have also been reported visiting the crater.  The best conditions for snorkleing Molokini are usually in the morning before winds and waves pick up.

There are a few excellent excursions from Maalaea Harbor that include delicious snacks and lunches, as well as naturalist guides who will make your experience educational as well as fun. These boats fill up quickly, so book yours well in advance. All snorkeling equipment is included.

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• Molokini Snorkel Cruise Aboard Four Winds
• Snorkeling Molokini Crater with Trilogy
• Maui Magic Molokini Snorkel Adventure
• Molokini Snorkel Sail Aboard Allii Nui

Three interactive dolphin programs are held daily in Dolphin Cove, a beautiful ocean-side lagoon, complete with its own private island. All three activities allow participants to learn about daily dolphin life and to interact with them in an intimate and educational adventure.

Dolphin Encounter allows participants one year and older, the opportunity to touch, learn and even kiss friendly dolphins in a 45-minute program. Guests learn about the intriguing world of dolphins and observe them from a waist-high platform while they perform high-energy stunts and tricks.

Dolphin Swim Adventure for 8 and older, lets participants mingle with the dolphins and trainers who put on the 45-minute program. It includes a personal training lesson with trainers and a chance to view dolphins underwater, up-close and personal. This adventure concludes with a belly-ride where a dolphin takes participants across the water’s surface while they hold on to the fins. This guests.

Dolphin Royal Swim is the premium dolphin interactive program that can only be described as ‘exhilarating and thrilling. It includes a “dorsal tow,” where two dolphins take participants on a ride as they hold on to their fins. The most breathtaking feature is the “foot push,” when guests can feel all the strength and energy of these amazing marine mammals as they push them across the water from the bottom of their feet.

Opened in 1964, Sea Life Park Hawaii is just 15 miles from Waikiki on Oahu’s scenic Makapuu Point, perched between the majestic Koolau Mountain Range and breathtaking Makapuu Beach. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime chance to swim with dolphins when you are in Hawaii.