Though I have not yet been, Acadia National Park looks amazing! And October seems to be a great time to visit due to the smaller crowds and cooler hiking weather along trails such as Beehive Loop or the Shore Path. While there, it is recommended to drive the scenic Park Loop Road, bike the historic Carriage Roads, and visit the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse, located on the southwestern corner of Mount Desert island within the park.
Hilton Head, South Carolina
Photo by Chad Sparkes
Though I visited here in the month of April (and it was nice), October is another good choice as well. You will experience warm days in the mid-70s mixed with fewer summer crowds and warmer ocean water. Dolphin watching, golfing, kayaking, and fall festivals can all be enjoyed at this time of the year. You won’t want to miss the Hilton Head Island Oktoberfest or Kiwanis Chili Cook-Off & Jeep Island.
Oahu, Hawaii
Photo by Deb Nystrom
Oahu is a magnificent island, with warm weather in October and the Hawaii Food & Wine Festival happening. This is ideal for hiking to Diamond Head, snorkeling at Hanuama Bay, relaxing on Waikiki Beach, and exploring Pearl Harbor. Plus the first whales start arriving from Alaska this month, so be on the lookout for them!
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Photo by Mark Bonica
This city is known for its world-famous International Balloon Fiesta, which is at the beginning to mid-October. It also makes for perfect mild weather to walk around the Albuquerque Old Town area. The Sandia Peak Tramway also offers incredible views of the fall foliage and the city. A hidden gem is said to be the Tinkertown Museum, full of unique architecture, eccentric collections, and interactive displays.
New England
Photo by Andy Thrasher
If you love fall foliage, New England would be a great road trip to take during this season. Stop in Woodstock, Vermont for a cute town known for its classic beauty, ride Mount Washington Cog Railway for exceptional sights, or take a trek at Dixville Notch State Park to see a lake, colorful trees, and Table Rock, a steep granite ledge. Other options include Salem, if that is your cup of tea, or the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular in Providence, Rhode Island.
Have a great October vacation if you plan to take one. Or I hope this helped you choose where to go!
After visiting the South Beach area of Miami for a long weekend, here is what I did there with a few other people.
The first day, we arrived in the evening, at the perfect time for dinner. So, we walked to Taco Taco, where we sat out on the patio and sipped on their huge margaritas. After that, we explored a small area of the city including the shops on Lincoln Road as well as the Miami Beach Boardwalk. Then, we stopped at Icy-n-Spicy for their jumbo specialty milkshakes (shown above).
The second day, we woke up early so we could have time to relax at the beach. After doing so, we took a cab to downtown, where we explored the Bayside Marketplace and took a boat ride along Millionaire’s Row, with celebrity homes such as Jennifer Lopez and Shaquille O’Neal. After that was done, we got ready for dinner at Barton G. Though it was pricey, the dinner was a unique experience, with my lobster pop-tarts being served to me in a toaster. We also stopped by Soundscape Park to check out the outdoor movie they were playing that night.
The third day, we went back to the beach for a little bit. Traveling past downtown again to Wynwood, we then visited the Superblue museum (pictured above). This was a neat, interactive experience with 5 different exhibits. Not too far of a walk away from that was the World Famous House of Mac, which was delicious! At night time, we went to the Treehouse nightclub then rode around South Beach in the slingshot rentals. Another club that looked interesting is Mango’s Tropical Nightclub. Other high-end clubs such as LIV and E11EVEN look fun as well, although the cover charges can be high, around $60 (from what I’ve heard).
The fourth day, we were heading back home. We stopped by the Miami Beach Botanical gardens for a few minutes before though, then took a ride to the airport.
Below, I’ve listed more recommended attractions, restaurants, and hotels in Miami for you!
Wynwood/Downtown
Attractions:
Miami Design District – known for modern architecture, upscale interior design stores, art, and jewelry boutiques
This past April, I took a visit to Hilton Head Island, South Carolina with my sister. It was an absolutely gorgeous location, and we would both love to visit again! Here’s what we did after arriving at the Savannah/Hilton Head airport and picking up our rental car.
Day 1
The first area we stopped in was Bluffton, South Carolina. We got lunch at Cahill’s Market then headed over to Calhoun Street. There, we walked around the block, window shopping at a few boutiques. Then was our Publix trip for essentials and groceries for some meals.
Next up was our Airbnb on Hilton Head Island. We stayed at a condo in The Dunes. It has a pool right next to our place, so of course we unpacked and walked over to take a swim.
After drying off and getting ready, my sister and I went exploring. We took the walking path covered in palm trees across the street to Alder Lane Beach (pictured above). It was very pretty and the water was actually relatively warm, especially compared to the beaches up north! The last part of our day consisted of taking a drive around, exploring and finding a unique location called The Bank. It is an outdoor venue offering a brewery, bar, a creamery, and 5 restaurants. When I was visiting, they had live music, as well as, a vendor event going on, and yard games such as cornhole. I highly recommend stopping here!
Day 2
After stopping at Carolina Crumbs for a quick breakfast, it was back to Alder Lane Beach for a couple of hours. Wanting to try out other beaches as well though, we drove over to Folly Field Beach. While it was nearly the same as the other one, I do think I liked Alder Lane Beach better.
For dinner, we ate outside at The Sandbar (the pulled pork tacos are an excellent option). Since it was raining that evening, we didn’t have much else to do besides go shopping. So, I drove down South Forest Beach Drive to the Sea Pines Community, which (apparently) has an admission fee. But, we enjoyed perusing through it, viewing all of the gorgeous mansions. At South Beach Marina (pictured above), you can find shops, such as The Salty Dog T-Shirt Factory and a few restaurants too.
Day 3
At Healthy Habit, I ordered an acai bowl, which is where I discovered that I love acai (it was my first time trying it). Because the rain had stopped, it was the perfect day to take a little journey to Harbourtown, located in Sea Pines. It is a cute mini town set along the water, with stores, a cafe/bakery, and a lighthouse, which costs $7/person. However, the panoramic landscape at the top is beautiful!
The community even has its’ own hiking trails. The Sea Pines Forest Preserve will take you down boardwalks that lead to a lake with picnic tables. It is a wonderful spot to stop and have lunch.
Our condo neighbor actually recommended going to Fish Haul Beach (pictured above) when the tide was low, so we did and it was worth it! My sister and I were surrounded by sand and very shallow, clear water, making it easy for her to find a few seashells. Close by was a cute lunch spot called Lucky Beach Bar & Kitchen, which was good.
We were hoping for the Village at Wexford to have a few more stores we were interested in, but didn’t see much. So, we moved onto Shelter Cove. Though not too many shops there either, we both got a drink at the Poseidon restaurant/bar.
Day 4
Every Tuesday, Hilton Head has a farmer’s market, hosted by the Coastal Discovery Museum. It was smaller than expected, but had some nice people and interesting vendors!
The Frosty Frog Cafe is a great spot for having an outdoor lunch. They are quick (perfect, since we were on a time crunch), and both liked the wraps we got.
Next up on the agenda was our dolphin tour we had booked. I was worried that we may not see them, but we saw them a good bit! The boat ride out to the bay was cold, yet relaxing, and the tour guide was very friendly and informative. I definitely wouldn’t mind taking another one if I went back.
When the tour was over, we went on a walk around the Shelter Cove park, and headed back to the condo. We took another dip in the pool, showered, and played a round of mini golf at Legendary Golf. They have an easier course and a more challenging one. Our challenging one was pretty tough, but still fun!
Day 5
This was sadly our last day in South Carolina. After checking out of the Airbnb, we got coffee from Sweet Al’s Cafe in Coligny Plaza. Of everywhere else on the island, this is the spot I would recommend for shops. There are a decent amount of them, some great for finding souvenirs.
That was about all we had time to do so we could catch our flight on time. But the both of us would absolutely love going back there. Everyone was so kind and the island itself was immaculate. It’s a perfect April/May vacation for a 4-5 days!
I hope this gave you more insight on Hilton Head Island. Thanks for the read! (:
A summer in the Adirondacks is bound to be a good one, whether it be spent boating, hiking, camping, swimming, at the beach, or at a distillery. It is suitable for either families or friends, offering a drive-in movie theater, museums, ziplining, fishing and more!
Delaware Beaches/Ocean City, Maryland
Along east coast, you will find multiple beaches starting at Rehoboth Beach in Delaware, connecting all the way down to Ocean City in Maryland. There are three different boardwalks in that area filled with rides, games, shops, dining, and activities such as mini golf and Ripley’s Believe it or Not! At night, you can walk over to Seacrets for dancing or head to Dewey Beach for bar hopping. I also recommend Fish Tales for good drinks and dining on the bayside!
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Photo by Douglas Muth
Since Minnesota is usually frigid in the winter, I would say that August would be a good time to take a mini vacation there. Of course, the Mall of America is a must-visit. Minnehaha Falls, Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, and Chain of Lakes are great outdoor options as well.
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Photo by Ben Schumin
Having visited Virginia Beach in August before, I would go during that month again. I went solely for the Luke Bryan concert at Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater. However, I made the most of the trip by laying out on the beach, exploring First Landing State Park, spending the day at Ocean Breeze water park, and watching the fireworks over the ocean.
Jersey Shore
I’ve been to the Jersey Shore many times. I can say that Wildwood has a nice boardwalk and Seaside Heights is cool if you watched the Jersey Shore reality show. If you visit the Shore Store, you might see Danny, who will give you a tour of their house from the show for $10, if there are no guests staying at that time. Atlantic City would be the best for casinos such as Bally’s or concerts. Last August, I attended Tidalwave Music Festival, staying at the Tropicana (pictured above), and this year will be seeing Illenium at Harrah’s!
July is a wonderful time of the year to visit the Seychelles Islands, located off the coast of East Africa. It boasts an average temperature of 80 degrees with little rain, and the surfing conditions at Anse Intendance are top tier. Praslin Island is enjoyable, as it is has nightclubs and luscious jungles with a wide variety of flora and fauna. Meanwhile, Cote d’Or is ideal for sunbathing, volleyball, and water sports. If you’re feeling like taking a more upscale approach one night, you could even take a sail in a luxury yacht!
Greenland
Photos by James Petts
If you’re looking to have an adventurous hike, cruise along the bay filled with icebergs, or discover Viking ruins in the town of Qassiarsuk, July is a great month to do so. You also have the opportunity to see the black sand beaches of Disko Island, take a tour of the museums in Ilulissat, step into the hot springs at Uunartoq, or even have the chance to view the midnight sun!
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Photo by Luca Sartoni
July is recommended for exploring the vibrant region of Amsterdam. It offers wine and cheese cruises along the canal, walking tours of the Anne Frank House, open air museums in Volendam, the Red Light District, and the Amsterdam Ice Bar! Activities could be riding a bicycle, taking a walk along the beaches, or attending one of the festivals that occur.
Kenya, Africa
Photo by Esin Ustun
At a maximum temperature of 75 degrees, July is a perfect time to catch a flight to Kenya. A safari is likely the main reason why someone would want to visit Africa, but that’s not the only reason to go! There is colonial architecture, the beaches, markets, and Mount Kilimanjaro. Hell’s Gate and Mount Kenya are well-known national parks to stop by as well.
Montreal, Canada
Photo by Dean McCoy
The summer festival season of Montreal draws in tourists for shopping, music, and eating. The Montreal Completement Cirque,includes an 11-day circus, and the Mural Festival lasts for 10 days, displaying urban art and digital installations. At the Jardins Gamelin, you will find outdoor performances, karaoke, and yoga all for free! The La Grande Roue observation wheel will give you 360 degree views of the city, or trek to Mont-Royal Lookout.
With it typically being in the 70s in Fiji during the month of June with hardly any rain, how could you not want to visit? Especially if you are intrigued by kiteboarding, surfing, or marine life sightings. Going to the Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park, walking down the Lavena Coastal Walk, dipping in the Sabeto Hot Spring Mud Pool, and touring the Garden of the Sleeping Giant are other fun activities to try! Not to mention the amazing Volivoli Beach, Natadola Beach, and Blue Lagoon.
London, England
Photo by Phil Fiddyment
With the weather being warm, June is, unfortunately, peak season. But for good reason! There are ample places to see, such as the Thames River by boat tour, or the famous tower of Big Ben and Kensington Palace via the classic red double-decker buses. The London Gallery Weekend, London Open Gardens, Zoo Nights at the London Zoo, and musicals at the theatre are exciting events that occur in this month.
The Swiss Alps
Photo by Artur Swaszewski
Though the average temperature in June is 70 degrees in Switzerland, you can still get a view of the mountain peaks topped with snow and marvelous lakes, such as Lake Lugano or Maggiore. Other than hiking to the beautiful sights, you can witness them by cable cars at Mount Pilatus, paragliding in Interlaken, or railroad tours throughout multiple cities! The Street Artists Festival and International Jazz Festival take place in the nearby cities.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Photo by Janice Waltzer
In June, the temperature in Rio is usually in the 70s and 80s with low chance of rain. In Tijuca Forest National Park, you will find the widely known Christ the Redeemer landmark, along with waterfalls, caves, and wildlife. Ipanema Beach and Jardim Botânico are pretty tourist sights as well. In Santa Teresa, you can walk along the cobblestone streets to view the art galleries, eateries, and craft stores. Unique sports such as “foot volleyball” (a combination of volleyball and football) and frescobol (similar to tennis yet with small wooden bats) are played here.
Capri, Italy
Photo by Jimmy Mallinson
Capri, Italy is a nice place to visit in June, since the weather is around 80 degrees and the water is warm enough to swim in. This summer month is ideal for sailing along the Amalfi Coast during the day and hitting the clubs at night! A must-see would be the Blue Grotto, which is a sea cave that gives the water a blue glow. And, at the highest point of Monte Salaro, which can be traveled to by chair life, you will catch amazing views of Capri and Mount Vesuvius.
See any you cities that peak your interest for the month of June? Let me know in the comments below.
Not only do the mountains look stunning, being topped with snow in June, but the weather also tends to rise to the 70s during the day, making it enjoyable for hiking, fishing, camping, and kayaking. However, the weather can tend to be unpredictable in the nighttime and early morning, so be sure to bring a few extra layers just in case! Another perk to visiting in June is that the park is fully open, yet less crowded than the other summer months.
Charleston, South Carolina
Photo by Doug Kerr
If you’re looking to visit the charming city of Charleston, South Carolina, in June, you may want to look into water sports, including jet skiing, paddleboarding, and kayaking, with the temperatures being in the 80s, and possibly the 90s! Spoleto Festival, ArtWalk on the first Friday of the month, and the Charleston Farmers’ Market on Saturdays are all events in the city to add to your calendar. The White Garden Park at the Battery will be blooming and sunset cruises are excellent options as well.
Yosemite National Park, California
Vernal Falls – Photo by Domenico Convertini
June is a good month to travel to Yosemite National Park due to the snow having melted, which reveal the beautiful waterfalls, such as Yosemite Falls and Nevada Falls. On average, the temperature at this time of year is in the high 80s. As for hiking, it is said that the Mist Trail is one of the best, with Mirror Lake also being a great spot to view.
Portland, Oregon
Photo by Kunal Mukherjee
June in Portland, Oregon will likely be filled with consistently pleasant weather and hardly, if any, rain. During this month, the Rose Festival to kick off the summer concert season, Festival of Balloons, and Portland Beer Week take place. On the other hand is Portland’s Forest Park, Portland Japanese Garden, International Rose Test Garden, Multnomah Falls, or Powell’s City of Books are all free!
Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Photo by Bill Ilott
Typically for June, the weather in Cape Cod, is in the 70s and sometimes 80s, along with a cool, ocean breeze. The beaches aren’t yet too crowded, with the water still being a little colder. At Nauset Light Beach, you may be able to attend one of their campfires with games and music or the Cape Cod Pirate Festival with contests, food and drinks, and dancing.
Which of these sound like the right option for you? Please comment below.
Bear Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park – Photo by Mark Collins
Denver, Colorado is at the top of my list because I am visiting there this upcoming May. The reason I chose this month to go is becaue, unlike mid-July, it is not too hot, and the prices for travel are slightly lower. A few of the locations that I plan to visit include Red Rocks Ampitheater, Golden Gate Canyon, Emerald Lake at Rocky Mountain National Park, Denver Pavilions, Idaho Springs, Cherokee’s Castle, 88 Drive-In, and the Beacon RiNo nightclub.
Gulf Shores, Alabama
Photo by John Tuggle
An average of 76 degrees makes for the perfect time to attend the Hangout Music Festival, the Hot Air Balloon Festival, or take a dip in the Gulf of Mexico. Kayaking, bicycling, hiking, riding segways, or golfing are some popular outdoor activities there as well. A one-of-a-kind attraction to try would be Alligator Alley, where you are able to hold a baby alligator!
Springdale, Utah
Zion National Park – Photo by G. Lamar
Visiting this region in the month of May would be preferred for those who enjoy hiking. That way, the excessively hot temperatures in the middle of summer can be avoided. Around that area are major sights including Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, and Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park. A few hours east of those are Canyonlands National Park and Arches National Park. You can also stargaze at Natural Bridges National Monument!
Marco Island, Florida
Photo by Ines Hegedus-Garcia
Typically with 80 degrees weather in May and smaller crowds, Marco Island is a fantastic pick! Kayaking on Ten Thousand Lakes, strolling along the pretty beaches that are known for shell-finding, going to world-class golf courses, fishing, and riding on waverunners through mangrove islands are just a few things to do while you’re vacationing there.
Manhattan, New York
Photo by Samuel Loannidis
Looking for a good time to stroll through the massive city of New York? May would be your best bet with the daily climate being approximately 70 degrees. For picnics in Central Park, you can go to Cherry Hill by the Bow Bridge or Great Lawn. Washington Square Park will have the blooming cherry blossoms at this time. On some nights, The Rooftop Film Club on top of the Skylawn Embassy Suites will present outdoor movies. Or you can make your way to the Little Island at Pier 54. The Ninth Avenue International Food Festival, the VOLTA Art Fair, and Japan Day are all celebrations that take place in New York during May. The possibilities there are nearly endless!
Though this region is susceptible to rain 7 days out of this month, the temperature rises to an average of 65 degrees. Moreover, you may get to experience the celebration of Semana Santa Holy Week, aka the week before Easter. During this time, fairs, festivals, and religious parades take place. Or, if you’re willing to travel an hour south to Obidos, you will come across the International Chocolate Festival. You could also partake in a Secret Food Tour, being guided to some of the best local eateries and book a ticket to the Belem Tower or the Castle of S. Jorge.
Corfu, Greece
Photo by Neil Thompson
April can be considered one of the best months to visit Corfu, Greece, due to the enjoyable weather and smaller crowds. Not to forget about the beautiful beaches and the distinguished rock formations that you can view while renting a boat, stopping at ancient monasteries, swimming at Love Canal, and sipping a cocktail at a beach bar.
Queensland, Australia
Millaa Millaa Falls – Photo by Steven Penton
Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, Australia is usually around 72 degrees during this month, with little rain. A road trip from there to Sydney might be something to look into, or just a day trip to the Gold Coast. If you would rather stay in one area though, an interactive art gallery, such as QAGOMA, hopping on a segway tour, getting on rides at Warner Bros Movie World, taking a kayak tour, or relaxing on Margate Beach may be of interest.
Madrid, Spain
Photo by Phil Fiddyment
Mild and sunny weather takes over Madrid, Spain, in April, perfect for appreciating the terrace bars and open parks. The Festimad Music Festival will be taking place at this time of year, if you listen to alternative rock. In terms of sporting events, there is live football matches, the Mutua Madrid Open Tennis Tournament, and the Rock ‘n’ Roll Madrid Marathon!
Being the beginning of dry season, April is great for traveling to Bali, Indonesia. It is an excellent month for swimming or surfing in the warm ocean. Though this is the beginning of peak season, the nightclubs become lively and you are not going to want to miss the Ubud Food Festival! The Bali Zoo, partying and staying overnight on Kuta Beach, Tegallalang Rice Terraces, and Uluwata Temple are a few favorite tourist locations too.
Which place would be your #1 choice out of the 5? Let me know in the comments below.
You have to admit, Hawaii is, hands down, the most gorgeous state in the United States. It is located in the south-western part of the U.S., nearly 2,000 from the mainland. It is the home of 137 volcanic islands, as well as, Polynesian culture, whether it be cuisine, traditions, mythology, or etiquette.
The state is comprised of 8 main islands, 7 of which are inhabited and only 6 of which can be visited by the public. So, which of the 6 should you catch a flight to? I’ll help you decide by giving you a summary of each one.
Kauai
Photo by Imogene Huxham
Kauai is filled with valleys, mountains, rainforests, waterfalls, and cliffs, which is why it is referred to as the “Garden Island.” The bad part is that the average annual rainfall is high, and it is generally humid. But if you don’t mind either of those conditions, Kauai could be the island to pick.
It is less of a tourist-filled location, and more of a rural area. However, the extraordinary sunsets and beaches make this island attractive for some travelers.
Kauai was also the set for the films Honeymoon in Vegas, South Pacific, Blue Hawaii, Jurassic World,Soul Surfer,The Descendants, Pirates of the Carribean: On Stranger Tides, Avatar, and King Kong.
In addition, there is an array of activities to choose from, such as horseback riding, snorkeling, kayaking along the river, ziplining in the jungle, taking a helicopter tour, visiting historical landmarks, farmers markers, playing a round of golf, or riding ATVs.
Points of interest:
Waimea Canyon
Na Pali State Coast Wildnerness Park
Limahuli Garden & Preserve
Princeville Botanical Gardens
Hawaiian Trading Post – shop with souvenirs and hand-crafted gifts
Spouting Horn Blowhole
Queen’s Bath
Ha’ena State Park
Wailua Falls
Maniniholo Dry Cave
Kapa’a – popular town known for colorful storefronts, and restaurants including local cuisine
Poipu Beach
hawaii – the big island
Haena Beach – Photo by Pedro Szekely
The largest island named Hawaii is often called The Big Island. It is absolutely one-of-a-kind, with the varying landscapes of different-colored sand beaches, mountains with snow-covered peaks, lava deserts, and rainforests. While this big island feels less crowded than others due to its size, there is still much to see and do.
On the Kona coastline, you have the opportunity to view the bluest water with sea turtles and dolphins. If you prefer water excursions, you could swim with manta rays, go sailing, scuba dive, kayak, parasail, go deep sea fishing, canoe, and paddleboard. If you would rather participate in land activities, you can take a scenic drive, visit one of the several breathtaking beaches, ziplining over a river gorge, go on one of the greatest hikes you’ve ever been on, or play golf at one of the world-class courses on the Kohala Coast.
Points of Interest:
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Hapuna Beach State Park
Heiau – historic site with ancient Hawaiian temples
Rainbow Falls (Waianuenue)
Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park
Hulihe’e Palace
Hilo Farmers Market
Akaka Falls State Park – Akaka Falls & Kahuna Falls
Punaluu Beach – known for black sand
Historic Hilo Town
Mauna Kea – the tallest volcano in the world/highest point in the state, renowned for stargazing
Papakōlea Beach – known for sand with a green hue
Kona Coffee Living History Farm
Waipi’o Valley Overlook
Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden
OAHU
Photo by Alan Light
The bustling island of Oahu is urban, luxurious, and consists of resorts sitting on the golden, sandy beaches, some of which are more secluded than others. The nightlife is vibrant, the weather is warm, and the adventures are endless. Plus, it is a great place to get the feel for the Polynesian culture and traditions!
Sitting on the south shore of Oahu is Hawaii’s capital, Honolulu. It was previously the home of Hawaii’s monarchy. Now, this city is centered around its dining and shopping.
Points of interest:
Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail
Byodo-In Temple
Waikiki Beach
Lanai Lookout
Kaneohe Sandbar
Pearl Harbor Museum
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
Laie Falls
Tantalus – botanical region popular with birdwatchers
Waimea Bay Beach Park – perfect for surfing
Diamond Head State Monument
Maunawili Falls
Pu’u O Hulu Trail
Lanikai Beach
Crouching Lion
MAUI
Photo by Brett Samuel
Compared to the other 5 islands, Maui could be considered mid-sized. Being more developed than Kauai, but less tourist-filled than Oahu is a main reason that people enjoy traveling here. In this spot, you will uncover wildlife, culture, history, and Hawaii’s most note-worthy beaches. From Haleakala, the world’s largest dormant volcano, is a spectacular view of the sunrise, through a set of clouds.
In Maui, you can enjoy their frequent festivals, underwater reefs, bamboo forests, waterfalls, and jungles abundant with flowers.
Visitors adore swimming with sea turtles, horseback riding, whale watching, windsurfing, snorkeling, and surfing, if you know how!
Points of interest:
Wailea Beach
The Garden of Eden
Kaanapali Beach
Maui Ocean Center
Paia – beach town with coffee shops and boutiques
Ali’i Kula Lavendar Farm
Iao Valley State Monument
Haleakala National Park
Waianapanapa State Park – known for its black sand
Kalaupapa National Historical Park
Napili Beach
Hana Lava Tube
Old Lahaina Luau – great for experiencing hula, traditional dancing, and a Hawaiian buffet
Pua’a Ka’a Waterfalls
lanai
Photo by Curt Smith
Lanai could be considered the most exclusive island of the 6, having remote beaches, high-end resorts, world-class amenities and services, professional golf, and exquisite cuisine. It is ideal for relaxing and healing in a peaceful setting at the spas, which offer lava stone lomilomi and algae body wraps. While this island is private, it does not lack adventure with off-roading in a four-wheel drive vehicle and swimming in tide pools that have been naturally carved out of volcanic rock.
When exploring, you will find unique rock formations and colorful underwater reefs. Popular activities here are lawn bowling, deep sea fishing, shooting clays, scuba diving, private boat charters, and whale watching,
Points of interest:
Lānaʻi Art Center
Keomuku Village
Shark’s Bay
Koloiki Ridge
Lanai City – with restaurants, shops, a park, and theater
Shipwreck Beach (on the north shore)
Kaunolū Fishing Village
Dole Pineapple Plantation
Hulopoe Beach
Sweetheart Rock (at the end of the Puupehe Trail)
Keiki Tide Pool
Keahiakawelo (Garden of the Gods)
Fisherman’s Trail
Polihua Beach
The Cavendish – 9-hole, free public golf course
Molokai
This would be the quietest and least developed island listed in this blog, therefore, probably not for everyone. It is more for those who don’t mind straying from the beaten path and connecting with nature rather than being pampered at a four-star hotel. That being said, Molokai still has wonderful beaches, rainforests, and the tallest cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Points of interest:
Kapuāiwa Coconut Grove
Murphy’s Beach
Kalaupapa National Historic Park
North Shore Sea Cliffs
Halawa Tropical Flower Farm
Purdy’s Natural Macadamia Nut Farm
One Ali’i Beach Park
Molokai Forest Reserve
Hālawa Valley – can only be explored on a guided hike
Molokaʻi Heritage Site
Halawa Beach Park
Aliʻi Fishpond
Pāpōhaku Beach
Moaula Falls
Kamakou Preserve
Palaau State Park
I know it seems tough to choose which one to visit still, but hopefully helped a little in knowing the difference between the islands and what they have to offer.
![Virginia Beach sunrise [06]](https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50067430141_9fd91fbef7_z.jpg)
A Sweet Paradise 
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