The Hawaiian Islands: A Polynesian Paradise
There's more to Hawaii than surfing and luxury resorts, though they're part of its mass appeal. Arriving in the Hawaiian Islands is like stepping into another world. Or at least a separate country, which existed until the US adopted the area as its 50th state in 1959. And that Polynesian heritage lives on in the food, culture, style and traditions of all seven inhabited islands, although you may have to go a little off the beaten path to experience local life in Hawaii beyond your comfort zone.
My first trip to Hawaii was as a child of twelve—I went on a press trip with my mom, I was allowed to miss a week of middle school to see humpback whales and sunbathe at the Four Seasons Maui, the same hotel that served as a backdrop for the first season The White Lotus. And, coincidentally, when I became a writer myself, my first publishing trip was on the island of Kauai. I was told when I arrived that this was not an accident, but part of a grand cosmic plan, so now I put all my work in Hawaii.
In the years since then, I have traveled to all six easily accessible islands in Hawaii (visits to Niʻihau are limited), each unique and beautiful, with a distinct cultural identity. Island-hopping is the best way to experience Hawaii—it's the most remote archipelago in the world, so once you get to Honolulu, you might as well explore the other islands during your stay.
If it's nature you're after, Kauaʻi (the Garden Isle) and the Island of Hawaiʻi (aka the Big Island) offer the opportunity to explore stunning volcanic valleys, towering sea cliffs, and tropical forests—the Na Pali Coast is one of the most beautiful places in the world. With ultra-chic retreats and five-star hospitality, the islands of Maui and Lānaʻi are irresistible (and connected by a one-hour ferry ride). Book a stay at one of the luxury resorts in Wailea, along Maui's south coast, or check into the Four Seasons Lānaʻi, one of the world's most romantic retreats.
You will be free to explore Oʻahu upon arrival. It is the most populated of all the Hawaiian Islands, with the eclectic, artsy city of Honolulu, and the amazing waves and white sand beaches along the North Shore. On the other end of the spectrum is the island of Molokaʻi, one of those rare places on earth—and mostly a tropical paradise—that deliberately avoids mass tourism. I was fortunate enough to be invited by a resident on a recent trip, and participated in an archaeological dig for ancient remains from the kingdom of Hawaii. The state has prioritized such activities that give back to the local community through its Mālama Hawaiʻi program. Mālama means preserve and protect in the Ōlelo Hawaiʻi language, and on my visits over the years, I've paired my sunbathing and mai tais with gardening, tree planting, and beach cleanup—all great fun in such an amazing place.
Finding ways to give back to the islands and support the locals is ultimately as rewarding as any luxury vacation. While we desire to go further, we must also desire to go deeper. And, during America's 250th birthday, there is no better time to find community and understanding in the farthest reaches of our country. Good trip!
