Top Hawaii Experiences

Beaches? Waikiki is just the beginning...

Waikiki is one of the world's most famous and fabulous beaches, but it's just the beginning where Hawaiian sands are concerned. There are beaches here for every possible taste, from sheltered and safe to wild and extremely challenging, and a huge selection of resorts to match. All beaches at their busiest between December and February (the US winter), but this time of year also brings the most rain, so a great time to go is during our own winter, between June and August. Which beach is best? On the main island of Oahu, Waikiki is a must, but if it proves too busy, try beautiful Kahala, Kailua or the calm waters of Lanikai and Pokai Bay. Sunset and Waimea have huge winter surf, and Kahana Bay Beach Park is ideal for the family. Then there are the fabulous resorts of the islands of Maui, Hawaii and Kauai. Kaanapali on Maui is very hard to beat, and over on Kauai, there's the stunning Poipu Beach Park. On Hawaii (the big island), try the sunny Kohala Coast, or quieter Keauhou Bay.

Hawaiian luxury - a class of its own

The fabulous beachfront resorts of Hawaii exist solely to provide a tropical paradise for their guests. The selection is magnificent, whether you're heading to Oahu or doing a little island-hopping, and the amenities, facilities and service are, of course, world-class. Chances are your luxury resort will have so much on offer you won't need to leave its gates, but we do recommend making time for some cruising, golf, snorkelling or scuba diving; maybe a helicopter flight to see the lava flows on Kilauea, a swim with the sea turtles, or a private sightseeing tour of the island you've chosen as your base. Whale watching is a must, and available year round, though the spectacular hump-backed whales are winter visitors (December to April). You'll find luxury resorts not just in Honolulu and Waikiki, but dotted all around the shores of Oahu and the other islands.

Hawaii for families - it's perfect

Not only is Hawaii a superb holiday destination: it's perfect for children, with a huge range of family-friendly attractions. From the fun of a swim with sea turtles or dolphins, to the excitement of seeing an active volcano, your kids can not only have a great time here: they can learn and benefit as well. We recommend looking for an economical condo or apartment - somewhere with more than one room, where you can enjoy a bit of space. Cooking facilities give you the choice of dining in or out, which is handy with little ones in tow. Then it's time for fun. If you're staying on Oahu, you can take a family surfing lesson or horse ride, go on a submarine adventure, visit Pearl Harbour, and spend a day at gorgeous Kahana Bay Beach Park. Don't miss Sea Life Park or a family walk up Diamond Head; go cruising, biking, and hop on 'The Bus' for a trip right around the island. The other islands their own treats in store for families: America's 50th state was made for fun.

Honeymoon close to heaven

These fabled islands are the place of spectacular tropical sunsets, silver beaches and deep blue waters: perfect for relaxation, and heavenly for a honeymoon. The weather is warm all year, the lifestyle is informal, and the food is fabulous. Plus there's a huge range of idyllic resorts and private beachfront hideaways, so the only difficulty will be deciding which to choose. Once you've made your pick, you can opt for a time of total peace or enjoy some of the islands' many attractions - try snorkelling or horse riding, swim with dolphins, take a cruise or hire a car and explore your South Sea paradise at leisure. Honolulu and Waikiki have their own air of romance, but if seclusion sounds more like you, check the out-of-town resorts or other islands, where you'll find all the tranquillity you could hope for. Wherever you choose, you can be sure of a very special time together, because Hawaii is just made for romance.