Classic Hawaii 2

The island is Oahu, the city is Honolulu, but Waikiki is where you're headed. Located on the south shore of Honolulu, the world-famous neighborhood of Waikiki is most famous for its beaches. With Leahi (Diamond Head) as your backdrop, the calm waters of Waikiki are perfect for a surfing lesson. But there’s more to Waikiki than just the beach. Attractions like the Waikiki Aquarium offer fun for the whole family. High-end boutiques, shops, and restaurants can be found all along Kalakaua and Kuhio Avenues and at the Royal Hawaiian Center, the Waikiki Beach Walk, the International Market Place and the massive Ala Moan Shopping Center. After the Waikiki sunset, the fun continues with amazing nightlife and live music. Best of all, Waikiki is within a half hour of a variety of Oahu attractions, including Pearl Harbor, the Nuulani Pali Lookout and Hanauma Bay. Not to be missed are the superb beaches of the windward coast, notably Kailua, Waimanalo and Lanikai. As you drive over the Pali Highway, it feels as if you’re entering a different world and a turquoise ocean shimmers in the distance, revealing some of the most stunning natural beauty anywhere in Hawaii. Driving along the two-lane highway you can't miss Mokolii, the tiny island fondly known as “Chinaman’s Hat.” Just across the highway you’ll find one of Hawaii’s most seen but least-recognized locations: Kualoa Ranch; its scenic valley has provided the backdrop for countless movies and TV shows, including "Jurassic Park" and "Lost". Here visitors can enjoy horseback riding, ziplining, ATV tours and host of other activities. From here, the highway meanders around the northernmost tip of the island to Oahu’s North Shore, home of the best surf spots in Hawaii—and some say—the world. But even if you are not a surfer, in the summertime you don't want to miss the beautiful Waimea Beach.

Kauai is Hawaii's fourth largest island and is sometimes called the "Garden Island," which is an entirely accurate description. The oldest and northernmost island in the Hawaiian chain is draped in emerald valleys, sharp mountain spires and jagged cliffs aged by time and the elements. Centuries of growth have formed tropical rainforests, forking rivers and cascading waterfalls! Some parts of Kauai are only accessible by sea or air, revealing views beyond your imagination. More than just dramatic beauty, the island is home to a variety of outdoor activities. You can kayak the Wailua River, snorkel on Poipu Beach, hike the trails of Kokee State Park, or go ziplining above Kauai's lush valleys. But, it is the island's laid-back atmosphere and rich culture found in its small towns that make it truly timeless.

Maui, known also as “The Valley Isle,” is the second largest Hawaiian island. The island beloved for its world-famous beaches, the sacred Iao Valley, views of migrating humpback whales (during winter months), farm-to-table cuisine and the magnificent sunrise and sunset from Haleakala. Regions: West Maui has one of the Island most famous stretches of coastline, Kaanapali Beach, with three miles of paradise where ocean adventures and total relaxation await. South Maui: escape to the tropical beaches of Kihei, Makena and Wailea; relax and unwind at a world-class resort or tee off at one of the 13 world-renowned golf courses. Upcountry: watch the sunrise from the peak of Haleakala, see ancient Hawaii’s desert landscapes and discover unique, locally grown food. East Maui: visitors who brave the Hana Highway’s signature hairpin turns and narrow bridges are rewarded with out-of-this-world views of lush rainforests, gorgeous waterfalls and exotic beaches.