Planning a perfect vacation – Hawaii – Tips to remember the spirit of the island.

It was December 26 2011 and I was on my honeymoon in Hawaii. Enoa Tour bus stopped us in front of the world famous North Shore of the Hawaiian Island of Oahu, to witness the extra ordinary power of the ocean. The Circle Island tour is a must for any body new to the island.

Tip # 1 : I recommend guided tours before you start exploring the island yourself.  This saves time and lets you see and explore a lot more than you would otherwise.

It was a bright sunny day and the surfers had gathered from all over the world to bag some serious water time. While they termed these gigantic 10 feet high waves “friendly”, to me they seemed dangerous.  I knew I had to find somewhat mellow waves where I could risk surfing and I found them at Waikiki where our hotel was. There is a bunch of hotels to choose from at Waikiki.

Tip # 2: I recommend planning your vacation in advance to save money. You should not only research and book your hotel in advance, you should also plan and book the guided sight seeing tours.

Being in Hawaii makes you want to just relax and get away from the hectic life we all have.  We wanted to take it easy and not have any plans to drive us up from the bed early.   We only explored things that suited our schedule. Some things did make us get up early; Polynesian Cultural Center and Pearl Harbor are worth seeing even if we did had to wake up early for it.

Tip # 3 Travel Desks inside the hotels have a big mark up on any tour bookings. You may save a lot of money by booking tours online or booking in advance with your trusted travel agent.

Here, on the beach front Honolulu the ambience was very different from the laid back North Shore. On the North Shore, you could always find a deserted stretch of sand. In contrast, Waikiki’s two mile stretch of sand is packed with sun-worshippers and tourists.  Now isn’t that a contrast?

But perhaps, this contrast makes Hawaii the favorite Vacation Destination for one and all. It truly has it all, you want to enjoy untouched nature, drive north and get kissed by the majestic mountains and the powerful ocean, if you miss your urban city life, activity and convenience, come back home to American stores and restaurants at Waikiki. We rented a car and drove around the island by ourselves, that’s the best way I like to see the island.

Tip # 4 : If you can afford I would highly recommend renting a car in Hawaii.

Separated from the continents by 2000 miles wide in every direction and yet very well connected, this magnificent island is indeed the perfect getaway!

Tip # 5 : You need minimum 5 days to experience the Oahu Island.  Tour operators know the island well and can give you insights on places to visit, with their knowledge and experience they do make sure that you enjoy Hawaii – the Hawaiian way!

Aloha!