Receive a 7% discount off standard rates for reservations of standard guest rooms at hotels that participate in the Marriott Bonvoy program when you book directly. They werent lying and the tourists followed. Many of these plants and creatures have made the Maui Ocean Center their home, and a visit to this aquarium is a must-do on any new travelers list. 1 spot (though it still made the world's best islands list). Akaka Falls State Park is home to two gorgeous waterfalls and an abundance of lush tropical greenery that never fail to impress visitors. We turned in ourState of Hawaii Traveler Health Forms and were cleared. You can rent a car using your state-issued drivers license and the rules of the road are the same as they are at home in the Lower 48. Readers rated islands according to their activities and sights, natural attractions and beaches, food, friendliness, and overall value. To show you whats possible, here are some fun things to experience with a family on Kauai and the Big Island. You pay $99 for the fare (plus as little as $23 for the taxes and fees). Everywhere you look will be surrounded by unique plants such as giant ti plants, birds of paradise, torch ginger, bamboo, and split leaf philodendron. Hawaii has its popular cultural show, the luau, that showcases hula dancing, fire twirling and traditional dishes like kalua pig and poi. There are a number of Caribbean islands that are on the U.S. Level 2 and 3 travel advisory lists. Hawaii's travel restrictions are evolving rapidly. While readers have stayed enthusiastically true to the region for decades, this year their sights have wandered: for the first time in nine years, Maui has been displaced from the No. Flights from hubs such as the New York City area, Chicago, Charlotte, Miami and others are plentiful especially to major islands. The Grand Wailea is huge, but it is a great family resort. You can see humpback whales from November through May, with the peak months from January through March. Hawaii, like many other states, has its own travel procedures amid the COVID-19 pandemic. TRAVEL + LEISURE is a registered trademark of Travel + Leisure Co., registered in the United States and other countries. Divided into three floors, this museum tells the story of the world before humanity through a series of myths and stories. We were seated in row seven, totally surrounded by other passengers, including a stranger in our supposedly blocked middle seat. Rows one through ninewere completely full at 100% capacity. It is known for its endless adventure options, beaches ranging from mild to rough waters, hiking in rain forests, black-sand deserts, Volcanoes National Park with two active volcanoesand great places to stay. The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua has its own take on a work and play package, called OOO (Out of the Ordinary)families can get away together and still be productive at work or school in residential suites with small kitchens; they can move to the poolside cabana if they just need to listen in on the Zoom call. Thats an incredible value especially if youre flying to Hawaii. This tour is popular and sells out quickly. And although this turbulent time has been about protecting yourself and others, the warmth of the Hawaiian people taught me that isolation doesn't have to mean alienation. Watching the sunset along Hanalei Bay on Kauai is also something special that everyone should experience at least once in a lifetime. Since Hawaii is a U.S. state, no passport, foreign currency or international cellphone plan is necessary. However, when we boarded the plane, I was immediately taken aback by how crowded the aircraft appeared. People come from all over the world for Hawaiis waters, and the island chain is a major draw for surfers. The latest On December 17, the Hawai'i Department of Health urged people on the islands to exercise caution as Covid-19 surged. But there are also plenty of impressive hotels for those who prefer to maximize their resort time. Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. You can find out more and change our default settings with Cookies Settings. Travel + Leisure magazine may receive compensation for some links to products and services on this website. Hawaii recently rolled out a new program called Malama Hawaii, a new initiative that "encourages visitors to leave Hawaii better than when they arrived." Prices can vary from reasonable to expensive, depending on when and where you travel. Neibaur also loves to recommend the home rental options at the Four Seasons complex, especially for those seeking more privacy now. Then we breezed through TSA and were at our gate within 20 minutes. Related: Why you should fly Hawaiian Airlines to Hawaii. 4. If you were to take Hawaiian Airlines' nonstop flight from Boston to Honolulu, you're looking at spending nine hours and 40 minutes inflight. Get out and see the sites!" Visit authentic villages and meet the local people, enjoy a fun and festive traditional dinner and luau, experience a one of a kind fire show with more than 100 Polynesian performers and take a personalized Circle Island tour. Research your Caribbean island choice to get a feel for whether youd feel comfortable exploring beyond your resort or not. Consider the beachside Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, which was voted the best hotel on the island (and No. If youre looking for an itinerary like that, research British Airways fifth-freedom island-hopping routes in the Caribbean that do go between certain islands on certain days, starting at just 4,500 points in each direction. To simplify your Hawaii Covid Travels Between Islands, iVisa.com provides these three following options : Standard Processing; the slow, steady, cheaper option. "This is what you think of when you dream of Hawaii." Compare the cost in points or miles to cash, and see which option is best. If youre staying in a house or villa, request that your provisions come from a local farmer or rancher, she said. The North Shores famous bike path will take you alongside some of the most picturesque beaches that Hawaii has to offer. You'll earn 15 elite night credits each calendar year, and receive automatic Gold elite status. The Best Hawaiian Islands to Visit for Different Kinds of Travelers Will it be lava flows or luxury resorts? Once complete, you'll be issued a QR code that allows airport officials to verify your information and approve your stay in the Aloha State. After the guided tour, guests are free to explore on their own. >> Next: Hawaii Quarantine to Be Lifted on October 15, AFAR participates in affiliate marketing programs, which means we may earn a commission if you purchase an item featured on our site. 2023 AFAR Media, Is Flying This Summer Going to Be a Repeat of the 2022 Air Travel Mess? I ordered a specialty cocktail called the 2020 Eraser. Published on April 21, 2021. I had a whole row to myself, and felt safe knowing all the other masked passengers had a negative COVID-19 test, too. You can spend an entire day here depending on your level of interest. Oahu Hidden Gems Tour + Snorkeling with Turtles If all you want to do is go have a family resort vacation (and theres nothing at all wrong with that), the Caribbean might have the edge as a family-friendly destination. The Four Seasons property will reopen December 1. Travelers often ask if its easier to visit Hawaii or the Caribbean. We had a snack and used the restrooms in the terminal (they were clean!) 2. Rules are still changing regularly, so if youre planning to visit the Caribbean or Hawaii, look into current entry mandates before booking travel. Should you want to use Southwest points to get to Hawaii (or the Caribbean) those points count toward earning a Companion Pass. In the days leading up to our flight, questions kept me awake at night: Will Duke keep his mask on? She also recommends a drive to the North Shore to observe surfing and a stop at the Polynesian Cultural Center. But, the real question is, should you go to the Caribbean or Hawaii? While most beaches are great for this fun activity, there are some that come highly recommended. I think well see a significant number of requests for bookings to Hawaii., Hawaii is in rare form right now, says Debbie Misajon, founder of the Coconut Traveler, and a destination expert specializing in Hawaii. (Just try booking a flight to say, Aruba, during spring break. Magazines featured photos of fire eaters and beautiful hula dancers. Opt for a window seat or wherever you can be farthest away from other passengers. Awards can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 35,000 Marriott Bonvoy points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy. The resort was well-prepared, too: Extra masks and wipes were placed throughout the room, and technology made contactless service a breeze. 4x points for purchases made at restaurants worldwide, at U.S. gas stations, on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers and on U.S. purchases for shipping. ", Kauai (No. During the same period, only six ships call on Hawaiian ports. Since it was my first time on the island, I knew I wanted to try the local, fresh fish. What if another passenger coughs on the plane? After months of being cooped-up in our Kaka'ako condos, my husband, our 3 . For those in the middle and eastern parts of the U.S., the Caribbean is also much easier on kids when it comes to jet lag. The Caribbean has even more influences, from the areas original inhabitants to those brought from Africa against their will in the slave trade. We pulled our masks tighter, wiped every inch of the seat, buckled up and hoped for the best. Seahorse farm tour. (Youll even find an included kids club at Aulani. Visiting these free falling 442ft waterfalls is not the most exciting part of the hike. Here are some recent reviews of points hotels in those destinations: Hawaii points hotel reviews: Westin Moana Surfrider | The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas | Hilton Waikoloa Village | Grand Hyatt Kauai, Caribbean points hotel reviews: Park Hyatt St. Kitts | Westin St. John Resort Villas | Kimpton Seafire Grand Cayman | Scrub Island, Autograph Collection. If you were to take Hawaiian Airlines nonstop flight from Boston to Honolulu, youre looking at spending nine hours and 40 minutes inflight. Rebecca Ascher-Walsh is a New York City-based journalist and author who specializes in celebrity and lifestyle coverage. After landing at Kahului Airport, I stepped off the plane into a different line where my personal QR code was checked to show proof of my negative COVID-19 test. So you can technically cruise around either island chain, but it is much easier and more affordable to do in the Caribbean. As long as the virus is alive and well, staying at home is your safest option. Mine cost $125, and the closest facility was at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Fly out first. We made it! Maui County. Terms apply to the offers listed on this page. A country-by-country guide to coronavirus recovery, Why you should fly Hawaiian Airlines to Hawaii, round-trip flights to the islands for under $200, Southwest was offering 40% off Hawaii fares, Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Credit Card, Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card, The best ways to get to Hawaii using points and miles, British Airways fifth-freedom island-hopping routes, Island-hopping on Southwest Airlines in Hawaii, Little-known Caribbean islands to visit before everyone else, perfect Mauna Kea beach on the Big Island, Review of cruising the Caribbean on the Disney Dream, all-inclusive beach resorts you can book on points in the Caribbean, The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas, The best ways to use credit card award-night certificates in Hawaii, How to rent DVC points to stay at Aulani for less, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. This point is an excellent photo spot and was once the place where spectators stood to watch Amelia Earhart take her first solo flight from Hawaii to the mainland United States. Both will reopen October 15. Best Hawaiian Islands to Visit: World's Best 2021 Hawaiian islands are known for their beaches, hikes, and surfing, among other things. Next you visit Halona Blowhole, a natural geyser formed from melted and cooled lava. Josh Alexander, Protravel International: josh.alexander@protravelinc.com, Diane Crisman, Valerie Wilson Travel: dianec@vwti.com, Michael King, Largay Travel: michael@largaytravel.com, Debbie Misajon, The Coconut Traveler: debbie@thecoconutraveler.com, Ken Neibaur, TravelEdge: ken.neibaur@traveledge.com. But the south side is much drier and home to Hawaiis version of the Grand Canyon, Waimea Canyon.. Think: A free night at the Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort in Hawaii or the St. Kitts Marriott Resort & The Royal Beach Casino in the Caribbean. Unfortunately, it was too close to take-off to do anything about it. We soon observed their mother nearby, keeping a watchful eye on her calves an only-in-Hawaii memory that will last a lifetime. For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter. (This may explain why another reader said this destination is so beautiful that he honeymooned there twice with two different wives.). It is, in a word, special. Most people stay on the Kona side, where there is more sunshine and all the top resorts. Take a trip back into time as you explore some of the most iconic sites from World War II, and explore Honolulus storied past on a guided tour. In the Caribbean, youll find historic forts, former sugar cane plantations, rum distilleries and plenty of coffee beans in the mountains of Jamaica. If so, there are also some excellent routes that can get you to the Caribbean islands fairly quickly, again through airline hubs such as Dallas, Houston, Chicago and others. But theres so much more to Hawaii (and the Caribbean) than the resorts. It was a surreal and unforgettable experience. Island of Hawaii - Indoor social gatherings of more than 25 . I think they have the most pools and water activities for kids anywhere in Hawaii, with multiple swimming pools for different ages., Advisor Josh Alexander with Protravel International also loves the Montage Kapalua Bayspecifically, their private residences, which offer larger living spaces and with gourmet kitchens.. Your email address will not be published. The best time to visit Hawaii's Big Island is between September and November. Stash some snacks. Plus, earn an additional Free Night Award after you spend $60K in purchases on your Card in a calendar year. If you turn inland to Mauka between mile markers 14 and 13 onto Honomu Road, youll be surprised to find an amazing collection of art galleries and gift stores as well as several cafes. The Four Seasons is evaluating its reopening date, with a decision coming soon.). The states capital, Honolulu, is also the site of the largest airport in the islands. The SafeTravels Program will remain in place statewide through at least Jan. 28, but since local governors are now in charge of rules in their territories some things may change from an island to another. (Keep in mind, if you don't wear a mask, you could be looking at a $5,000 fine.) I enjoyed the friendly conversation I had with a local, who showed me how to stitch as she shared stories about Hawaiian culture and how tourism in Maui has shifted amid the pandemic. Some of Hawaii Islands most magnificent and reachable waterfalls can be found along the northeastern coast of the island, along the Hilo and Hamakua Coast. In March 2022, for example, there are nearly 90 ships sailing the Caribbean from embarkation ports like San Juan (Puerto Rico); Barbados; Fort-de-France (Martinique); Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, and Port Canaveral, Florida; New Orleans; Galveston, Texas; and Mobile, Alabama. Hawaii still holds that mystique. 7 in all of Hawaii) by T+L readers. US visitors who aren't fully vaccinated still must provide a negative Covid-19 test result from one of the state's Trusted Travel Partners taken within three days of their flight's departure. Keyla Vasconcellos is a Los Angeles-based writer covering food, lifestyle, and travel. In fact, Hawaiian Airlines has stated that they arelimiting capacity to 70%during this time. The daily exhibition features works by native Hawaiian artists including interactive exhibits and family-friendly installations that kids can touch and explore. Fuji, Japans most iconic volcano. You could use a Marriott up to 35,000-point certificate from the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card, for example, in both destinations. Limited Time Offer: Earn 125,000 Bonus Marriott Bonvoy Points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of Card Membership. For example, getting around places like Barbados, Aruba, Grand Cayman and Turks and Caicos is the norm and youre unlikely to encounter safety issues. The catamaran offered open-air seating, and I was required to answer health questions before boarding. Waianuenue Falls, often called Rainbow Falls, is a five-minute drive from downtown Hilo in Wailuku River State Park. Related: Little-known Caribbean islands to visit before everyone else. After a 25-minute drive, I arrived at the breathtaking Wailea Beach Resort. If youre a fan of powder-soft white sand and crystal-clear blue water, the Caribbean may have more options. Check outthese tipson how to get your keiki to keep their masks on. King has some well-earned opinions on where to stay in Maui. Go Hawaii has up-to-date information on current travel requirements and restrictions. Want more information about what you have reador have any other questions? If youve got hotel points from the major players like Hilton, Hyatt, Marriott and IHG, youll be able to spend them in either Hawaii or the Caribbean. What is the processing time and price? HoMa features stories, films, Art After Dark, and Family Funday Sundays for residents and visitors alike. Our points-obsessed staff uses a plethora of credit cards on a daily basis. According to The Inter-American Development Bank tourism accounts for 34-48% of GDP for the countries like the Bahamas, Barbados, and Jamaica. Whether your ideal Hawaiian vacation means time sunning, shopping, or snorkeling, there's an island for you. USD $62.99 - 8 hours. Located 45 miles southwest of Hilo Island, the park is home to Kilauea and Mauna Loa, two of 5 spectacular volcanoes that form the Island of Hawaii. If you are an early bird and a germaphobe (who isnt these days? TSA is also currently allowing passengers to bring up to 12 ounces of liquid hand sanitizerin carry-on bags. Find the right card for you. Theres enhanced Wi-Fi to stay connected everywhere on the 53-acre property. Editor's Note: Those who choose to travel are strongly encouraged to check local government restrictions, rules, and safety measures related to COVID-19 and take personal comfort levels and health conditions into consideration before departure. Lanai is great for a quiet trip or honeymoon because there isnt an urge to do a great deal., Statue of legendary surfer Duke Kahanamoku on the beach in Waikiki, Oahu. It was a trip we were supposed to take Easter weekend and had been eagerly waiting to reschedule. Kauai offers beautiful residential options, though inventory goes fast, and there arent as many home options as on Maui, says Neibaur. There are volcanoes there, too, as well as secluded beaches and historic old towns with an unmistakable European flair. If service is important to you, remember that some Caribbean countries are newer to the tourism industry than others. Hawaiibetter known as the Big Islandis the largest of the island chain, with more than 10 diverse climate zones. Editors note: This is a recurring post, regularly updated with new information and offers. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); #mc_embed_signup{background:#000000; clear:left; font:14px Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif; width:100%;} Try renting a kayak at sunrise for a surreal experience. My guide picked me up at my hotel and asked a variety of health questions, in addition to the customary temperature check. To adhere to safety regulations, the passenger numbers were limited for safe social distancing, and all tables were spaced six feet apart. ), consider booking the first flight of the day. Book it here. But there is plenty to do, says Kingbeaches, snorkeling, humpback whale viewing during January and early February, golf courses, and fine dining, like the famous Mamas Fish House. One could even snap a picture of the QR code on the TV to use as a remote control. Disneys Aulani resort on Oahu is one option if you want kid-focused and Hawaii all in one. Your best bet for a seven-night voyage around the Hawaiian Islands is Norwegian Cruise Lines Pride of America or Uncruise Adventures Safari Explorer. Pure Kauai has been a high-end villa specialist on the island for almost 20 years. On Christmas, I treated myself to a two-hour sunset cruise out of Ka'anapali Beach. A Bostonian could watch two additional full-length movies to kill the extra time it takes to get to Hawaii. Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe to share their opinions on the top cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. If youre worried about crowds in either location, avoid peak dates when lots of families travel near holidays, such as Thanksgiving, Christmas and spring break. I love writing and publishing content for digital nomads, remote workers, and passionate travelers like me. It is known for its endless adventure options, beaches ranging from mild to rough waters, hiking in rain forests, black-sand deserts, Volcanoes National Park with two active volcanoesand great places to stay.