Hawaii Accommodation & Holiday Houses

The fastest way to get from Australia to Hawaii is to take a direct flight from Sydney to Honolulu. Qantas, American Airlines, Virgin Australia, and Hawaiian Airlines all offer direct flights between the two cities. The flight time to Honolulu is about 10 hours. If you are starting your holiday on the mainland of the USA, you can get a direct flight from most major cities on the West Coast to Honolulu. You may need to take a regional flight or boat from Honolulu, however, to get to the particular island where you've booked your accommodation in Hawaii.

Once you are at the airport, you can take a taxi or hire a car to get to your rental home. Having a rental car does give you the freedom to explore the island on which you are based at your leisure. That said, getting around by public bus on Oahu, Kauai, Maui, and the Big Island is possible.

Hawaii is famed for its exceptional Pacific island cuisine. Located in Honolulu, Chef Mavro is a small and cosy restaurant famous for its diverse menu featuring Hawaiian-fusion dishes like Keahole Lobster Paella.

The Hanapepe Cafe and Bakery is a popular restaurant on the western front of Hawaii. The quiche and croissant both go well with the fresh espresso, while the Hawaiian tuna should satisfy those looking to try the authentic local cuisine.

The Lanai City Bar and Grille by famous chef Bev Gannon is nestled within the Hotel Lanai, and the menu includes fresh seafood and locally sourced meat. Duke's Canoe Club in Honolulu serves traditional local seafood in a vibrant setting that provides live music and an indoor waterfall.

A visit to the Hawaiian Islands is incomplete without trying some of the local favourites such as poi (pounded or baked taro plant root), chicken long rice (a chicken soup-like dish with noodles and ginger), laulau (steamed meat wrapped in taro leaves), kālua pig (shredded pork cooked in an underground oven) and haupia (coconut pudding).

The Hawaiian Islands are known for some fantastic sights. One of the most famous spots is Diamond Head State Monument on Oahu, an incredible cone-shaped volcanic crater with picnic facilities and an observation deck at the top where you'll be able to enjoy some of the most spectacular views of the islands.

Haleakala National Park (Hawaii's highest peak at over 10,000ft above sea level) is another incredible volcanic formation on Maui, which covers over 32,000 acres and is a great place for hiking or taking a guided tour. Nestled in Pearl Harbor near Honolulu, USS Arizona Memorial is worth a visit; and dedicated to those who sacrificed their lives during World War II.

Hulopo'e Bay is one of the most beautiful beaches on Lanai. Excellent snorkeling opportunities, a famous archaeological site, and lush palm groves give the place the distinct feel of a tropical paradise. Located on the Big Island, the town of Kailua-Kona is known for its lovely beaches, shopping, and range of activities including snorkeling, whale watching, and deep-sea fishing.

Try your hand at golf in some of the finest golf courses found all over Oahu such as Olomana Golf Links, Ko Olina Golf Club and Palmer Course. On the Kauai, the Waimea Canyon (offers stunning views of the gorgeous canyon, and waterfalls) and Nā Pali Coast State Park (famous for its majestic sea cliffs, streams and cascading waterfalls) are two of the must-see attractions.

Hawaii is famous for its diverse arts and rich cultural heritage. Honolulu Museum of Art (HoMA) is home to an extensive collection of over 50,000 artworks from America, Europe, and Asia, from a period spanning 5,000 years.

The Bishop Museum on Oahu is Hawaii's largest museum dedicated to preserving and promoting the region’s history, and also considered the leading historical and cultural institution in the Pacific. Kauai Museum houses the work of multi-cultural sculptors, artists, and craftsmen.

Hawaii State Art Museum at South Hotel Street features three galleries and a swimming pool in the courtyard. This museum boasts a great collection of contemporary artworks reflecting Hawaii's ethnic and cultural tradition.

Adventures in Hawaiian islands do not stop after the sun goes down. Hawaii is home to several karaoke bars, jazz clubs, rock and roll clubs, cocktail hotspots, and traditional Hawaiian hangouts.

Beachside lounge, RumFire, is a favorite local hangout for its fantastic music, Waikiki beach views, refreshing cocktails, and delicious food. Located in Chinatown, Bar 35 is a fusion bar that offers over 150 brews from different countries along with live music.

Some of these nightspots even stay open until the wee hours of the morning. Honolulu and its neighbourhoods are known for having the widest array of clubs and nightlife choices of all the islands.

Rental homes in Hawaii offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see active volcanoes. Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to watch a constant stream of hot lava pouring into the ocean below by day, while at night, the activity of the volcano provides a natural fireworks show. There are a number of hiking trails in the park for those wanting to explore the area.

Learn to surf at Waikiki Beach on the island of Oahu. There are a number of surf schools here, and the beach offers constant waves at a size that are typically good for beginner surfers. If you already know how to surf, head to Hookipa on Maui to ride the waves alongside the resident surfing legends.

Go horseback riding or 4x4ing through the Waipio Valley to see the lush green cliffs and towering waterfalls that have made this part of Hawaii famous.