Camping Gems - Hawaii
Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area, Maui
Cool and misty, Polipoli spring is set at 6200 feet elevation in the glorious Kula Forest Reserve. The area is accessible by four-wheel drive, but bring your walking shoes because the best way to explore the reserve is on foot. You'll find stunning views of Maui, the Maui Mountains, Lanai, Kaholawe, and Molokai.
Kona Coast, Hawaii
If you're looking for sheltered swimming, colorful fish, and a mild climate, head to the Big Island's Kona Coast. Sheltered in the lee of the Mauna Loa and Hualalai volcanos, this seashore has calm weather and gentle ocean waters. Head down the black-lava "steps" into the ocean and get a view of the gorgeous tropical fish that live here.
Hana, Maui
With its golden beaches, lush tropical landscape, and clean-washed blue skies, Maui is a vacationing wonderland. In this land of superlatives, the little town of Hana offers a get-away that surpasses the imagination. Even locals flock to Hana to escape from it all, get back to nature, and relax. Head to Hamoa Beach, which author James Michener called ‘South Pacific beauty in the North Pacific.’ You’ll find a red cinder beach and lovely lagoons at Kaihalulu Beach, and a black sand beach at Waianapanapa State Park.
Lanai
Take a step off the beaten path by taking a trip to the island of Lanai. This quiet island doesn't have Oahu's flashy resorts, but it does offer a wild and rugged glimpse of native Hawaii. Take the Munro Trail through pines and palmsto the island's highest point, or head to Hulopoe Bay to watch for spinner dolphins. Take a four-wheel drive up to Keahiakawelo and experience a landscape called th "Garden of the Gods."
Na Pali Coast, Kauai
Water sports rule on Kauai's Na Pali Coast. Whether you're looking to sail, snorkel, stroll the beach, or watch for monk seals and dolphins, this is the place to be. You'll send on a sandy beach, looking up at 200-foot high waterfalls and green mossy cliff walls. (Caution - waves tend to be high from late September to early May)
Haleakala Mountain, Maui
Ready for a bike-riding adventure you'll never forget? Head to Maui's Haleakala Mountain, one of the largest mountains in the world. Climb to the top and look down into the crater (3,000 feet down!), or admire the views from the peak.
Kapalua Hiking Trails, Lahaina, Maui
At the Kapalua Resort, you'll find two remarkable hiking trails – the Village Walking Trail and Maunalei Arboretum Trail. Catch views of the West Maui mountainside or enjoy the vistas of neighboring islands and other majestic views
Opaekaa Falls, Kauai
To reach these stunning falls, you'll need to blend kayaking with hiking. Take your kayak to the Wailua River near the Wailua Marina. Kayak up the river for about half a mile, then follow the Opaekaa Stream (to the right, under a bridge). Follow the Opaekaa Stream to its end, secure your kayak, and carry on by foot. Follow the stream bed until you reach the falls. With their setting in lush jungle, far off the beaten path, this trek is definitely worth the effort. Shangri La, near Waikiki, Oahu
Doris Duke once owned this grand estate with its incredible collection of Islamic Art. Today, you can tour this 1937 villa by making a reservation with the Honolulu Academy of Arts. Be sure to take a swim in Shangri La’s rock-ringed ocean pool. If you prefer, use the public access to reach the beach -- follow Diamond Head Road to Kahala, turn right on Kulamanu Street and park in Black Point. Walk down Kulamanu Place to the small beach.
Chinatown, Old Honolulu, Oahu
You'll get your fill of fresh fruits and veggies in this open-air market that's surrounded by shops, art galleries, a Buddhist temple, and a Japanese shrine. Stop by a Visitor's Center for a map or head in on your own. You'll find leis and lei-making shops, stands full of fresh herbs, fruit, and fish, as well as outstanding Chinese food. |
