Hawaii is the gift that keeps on giving. No matter which island you choose, you can bet that the view will be prettier than the one outside your office window. Even the most visited islands can offer something new. On your next visit seek out one of these ’hoods on Maui and Big Island.
> UpCountry – Check into Lumeria hotel, where a “retreat” feel offers you daily yoga options, meditation sessions and Hawaiian hula lessons, all set amongst gorgeous gardens. Make time to catch the sunrise at the 10,000-foot summit of the Haleakala volcano and a hike through the clouds. For a glimpse of local life, head to Paia town for unique designer shops or out to Maui Wine for a tour and tasting. Dine at Mama’s Fish House, where menus change daily depending on what’s in season and views include a beach cove where you can stretch out when you’re done. www.lumeriamaui.com; www.mamasfishhouse.com
> Hana – Much is made about the drive to Hana, but if you’ve got the time and the stomach for the winding, narrow roads, it’s worth it. The journey – with gorgeous turn-offs at state parks and local food and fruit stands – is an incredible reward, but the pot of gold at the end of this rainbow is Hana itself. Stay at least a night at the Travaasa Hana, where you can pop in to be pampered in the spa or stretch out on your deck overlooking the ocean. Then head out to the Pipiwai trail, where a walk through an incredible bamboo forest will inspire and the 400-foot-tall Waimoku falls will take your breath away. www.travaasa.com
> Hilo – The draw is the Volcano — active and steaming. Take in the views from your room at the four-star Volcano House hotel. The Thurston Lava Tubes offer cave-exploring options for adventure seekers, or you can book a tour with Native Guide Hawai’i to hear from a local about the area’s flora and fauna and the tales of Goddess Pele and her fiery spirit. Ready to explore beyond the park? Head north to Waipi’o Valley lookout, shop the local retailers of Honoka’a or drive the Onomea Scenic Route — a eight-kilometre stretch of winding asphalt just north of Hilo town that takes you through rainforests and along the coast for stunning views. www.hawaiivolcanohouse.com; www.nativeguidehawaii.com
Heather Greenwood Davis is a lawyer and freelance writer. Reach her at www.globetrottingmama.com.
> UpCountry – Check into Lumeria hotel, where a “retreat” feel offers you daily yoga options, meditation sessions and Hawaiian hula lessons, all set amongst gorgeous gardens. Make time to catch the sunrise at the 10,000-foot summit of the Haleakala volcano and a hike through the clouds. For a glimpse of local life, head to Paia town for unique designer shops or out to Maui Wine for a tour and tasting. Dine at Mama’s Fish House, where menus change daily depending on what’s in season and views include a beach cove where you can stretch out when you’re done. www.lumeriamaui.com; www.mamasfishhouse.com
> Hana – Much is made about the drive to Hana, but if you’ve got the time and the stomach for the winding, narrow roads, it’s worth it. The journey – with gorgeous turn-offs at state parks and local food and fruit stands – is an incredible reward, but the pot of gold at the end of this rainbow is Hana itself. Stay at least a night at the Travaasa Hana, where you can pop in to be pampered in the spa or stretch out on your deck overlooking the ocean. Then head out to the Pipiwai trail, where a walk through an incredible bamboo forest will inspire and the 400-foot-tall Waimoku falls will take your breath away. www.travaasa.com
> Hilo – The draw is the Volcano — active and steaming. Take in the views from your room at the four-star Volcano House hotel. The Thurston Lava Tubes offer cave-exploring options for adventure seekers, or you can book a tour with Native Guide Hawai’i to hear from a local about the area’s flora and fauna and the tales of Goddess Pele and her fiery spirit. Ready to explore beyond the park? Head north to Waipi’o Valley lookout, shop the local retailers of Honoka’a or drive the Onomea Scenic Route — a eight-kilometre stretch of winding asphalt just north of Hilo town that takes you through rainforests and along the coast for stunning views. www.hawaiivolcanohouse.com; www.nativeguidehawaii.com
Heather Greenwood Davis is a lawyer and freelance writer. Reach her at www.globetrottingmama.com.
