Page 10 - AAA Every Day – AAA Hudson Valley – January/February 2020

TRAVELER’S GUIDE
Oahu
This is where the action is. The most popular and populated of Hawaii’s islands, Oahu is No. 1 for visitor arrivals and for a good reason: It’s as convenient as it is captivating. You’ll find the most flights, a wide range of hotels and resorts, and an endless list of sights and attractions to explore, all working together to make a vacation on this island fun, fabulous and affordable. Begin your journey in the heart
of the island at Waikiki Beach, where the majority of visitors stay. Here you’ll find plenty of sunbathing opportunities and dining at restaurants that range from authentic local joints to celebrity chef-owned culinary hot spots. Stroll along the beach’s iconic golden sands, learn to surf the gentle waves or take a ride
in an outrigger canoe. Venture into downtown Honolulu to visit the Bishop Museum, which offers exhibits honoring Hawaii’s rich culture. A short drive west from Honolulu is Pearl Harbor, where a memorial to the fallen sailors stands in the harbor atop the sunken hulk of the USS Arizona.
Spend one day exploring the southwest corner of the island in the family-friendly resort area of Ko Olina, with lovely beaches, calm lagoons and a marina. Another day, head up to the famous North Shore, a haven for surfers. Along the way, be sure to stop at the Dole Plantation
to learn about the influence of the humble pineapple on Hawaii’s agricultural history. You’ll also want to visit the Polynesian Cultural Center in Laie, where you’ll find a living representation of life in the Pacific islands from ancient times until today.
Other memorable excursions include snorkeling in the coral reefs of Hanauma Bay and hiking iconic Diamond Head to take in the sweeping view. For the quintessential Hawaii vacation experience, head to one of the
island’s many luaus for a hearty meal and eye-opening entertainment.
Maui
Maui has earned a well-deserved reputation for romance and its pampering spa resorts keep it a popular honeymoon destination — but it is genuinely so much more.
On Maui, you’ll want to make it to the top of Mt. Haleakala before the sun breaks the horizon on one day of your stay. Be sure to reserve a spot well in advance
as daily access is limited. Watch as the light slowly illuminates the mountains, streams and waterfalls below you. Stay awhile and hike the trails or take a horseback
ride through the national park surrounding this dormant volcano. At the foot of the mountain lie the seven sacred Pools of Oheo, where you can take a refreshing dip. Head north about 10 miles to Hana, a
quaint village that retains the real character of Hawaii. It’s the endpoint of the famed Road to Hana, or in this case, the beginning. As you continue northwest, the Road
to Hana will take you through 52 miles of twists, turns and one-lane bridges that are made worthwhile by the breathtaking scenery you pass. Of course, the best way to truly enjoy that amazing scenery is to leave the driving to someone else by booking a guided Road to Hana tour. Additional island must-sees include the lush mountains
of the Iao Valley, home to the famous Iao Needle, and Nakalele Blowhole. The resort area of Kapalua is home to some of the world’s most well-known golf courses and beautiful beaches. Further south is the town of Lahaina, a one-time fishing village that reflects the rich history of this island. Drive south a while to Maalea Harbor, where you can take a boat out to Molokini, a small crescent- shaped island where the snorkeling is legendary. Drive south a little further to the upscale resort area of Wailea, and beyond to Makena, whose volcanic coastline is a gorgeous sight to behold.
10 I JAN/FEB 2020