As far as island getaways go, it’s tough to beat a luxury vacation in Hawaii. But the question is, in a place that welcomes millions of visitors each year, what’s the best way to have a unique experience?
Here are 6 ways to make the most of your Hawaiian vacation by venturing off the beaten path:
1. Hike Kaupo Gap
Kaupo Gap offers adventurous travelers Maui’s most infamous 2-day hike. You’ll make the lengthy trip from Haleakala summit down to the 7000-foot crater floor to spend a night at Paliku campground (cabins available), home to native foliage and Hawaii’s state bird, the endangered nene goose. On day two, you’ll navigate a steep jungle path that drops nearly 6000 feet to the village of Kaupo. Along the way, you’re sure to encounter deer, goats, and stunning Pacific vistas. Once in Kuapo, visit the historic store before catching a ride back to civilization!
2. Fly into the Big Island’s most inaccessible places
The Big Island is the largest and youngest Hawaiian island, so you can still find undeveloped areas. If you’d like to explore the real secret spots, a helicopter is by far the best way. Blue Hawaiian Helicopters offers flights that fly-on-by the active Kilauea volcano, soaring over black sand beaches, lush rainforest, and flowing lava. You’ll touch down at the base of Punalulu Falls in the untainted land of Lupahoehoe Nui, a tiny exclusive community built on an angular cape formed by flowing lava.
3. Visit a secluded island—on foot
For breathtaking vistas of the Ko’olau Range and Oahu coastline, wait for low tide and then simply walk to the tiny but famous offshore island of Mokolii. You’re very likely to have the entire island to yourself, so making your castaway wishes come true is surprisingly doable when you opt for this stroll. Explore sea caves, lounge on the beaches, or hike on up to the peak for some great exercise and an all-around stunning view.
4. Explore Waipio Valley on horseback
Family-run Na’alapa Stables makes exploring the Big Island’s wildest lands on horseback possible. Gallop though through valleys to secluded waterfalls and untouched cliff edges in the Waipio Valley, where no vehicle can venture. Expect impressive views of the Kohala coast and even Maui. Rides are customized to the ability and preference of visitors. Those more advanced in the equestrian arts are encouraged to ride freely, even cantering off-trail.
5. Take a stunning selfie at Makapuʻu Point in Oahu
Makapuʻu Point on Oahu’s easternmost edge offers one of the island’s most jaw-dropping views. The looming volcanic ridge rises about 600 feet above the true blue magical ocean. From there, you can spot Manana Island nearby, as well as Black Rock Island, and on a clear day you can see the islands of Molokai and Lanai too. The 46-foot Makapu’u Lighthouse stands tall at the far eastern tip, and an easy hike gifts visitors with an even more gorgeous 360-degree panorama.
6. Discover the wet and dry Caves in Kauai
Visitors to Kauai love hiking the stunning Na Pali Coast, but it’s easy to miss the wet and dry caves in the Haena State Park on the way. The water in the Waikapalae Wet Cave comes from an underground spring which eventually feeds into the ocean, so water levels change with the tides. It’s recommended to bring a flashlight into the Maniniholo Dry Cave so you can clearly study the abundant tropical vines meandering down the rock walls. A true haven for amateur spelunkers!
To book your luxury villa in Hawaii, contact Rental Escapes today!
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