Slow down…
The most recent state to join the United States of America in 1959, Hawaii evokes visions of white sandy beaches, gently swaying palms and soft strains of ukulele. A picture that is most welcome any time of year, but especially during our long, grey winters here in England.
Made up of eight islands, each with its own personality and attraction, Hawaii is world renowned for offering a taste of the ‘Aloha Spirit’ – the coordination of mind and heart within each person. Each person must think and emote good feelings to others. It’s no wonder that the islands have such a name for total peace and happiness.
Climate
This American state is the only one composed entirely of islands and each benefits from a warm tropical climate. Summer highs can reach 31°C and even in winter night temperatures rarely dip below 18°C. It truly is a paradise.
IMAGE: Hawaii State ParksHotels
From The Royal Hawaiian, or the ‘Pink Palace of the Pacific’ in Honolulu, Oahu to the luxurious Andaz Maiu, Hawaii boasts some of the most exquisite hotels.
The Royal Hawaiian is known as The Pink Palace of the Pacific – never guess why…!
Stunning views from the Andaz Maui
The infinity pool at the Sheraton WaikikiThe best beaches
The Hawaiian islands by their very nature have a multitude of beautiful beaches. Whether it’s surfing, snorkelling or just relaxing on the sand with a stunning view, Hawaii can definitely cater for you!
Waikiki Beach, one of the most popular beaches in the world, boasting more than four million visitors every year and breathtaking views of Leahi (Diamond Head).
Three miles of white sand and crystal clear water at Kaanapali Beach. IMAGE: HomeAway
Wailea Beach on MauiThings to see and do
If you’re not content with relaxing on a beautiful beach or enjoying some fresh local cuisine, there’s plenty to explore on the Hawaiian islands. Hawaii is home to several gorgeous national parks as well as one of the world’s most active volcanoes – Kilauea. And with canyons, tropical plants, colourful flowers and Pearl Harbour memorial, there’s beauty, culture and history enough to satisfy all your senses.
The Japanese bridges in Liliuokalani Gardens IMAGE: macprohawaii
Snorkelling on the Kona Coast. IMAGE: Bo Pardau
Nani Mau Gardens. IMAGE: Only in Hawaii
Ki’i Totems, Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historic Park, Hawaii
The volcanic Kilauea. IMAGE: wpengine.netdna-cdn.comFamous fans
Who wouldn’t choose to holiday in Hawaii?! From Justin Timberlake to Kanye, Sandra Bullock to Cameron Diaz, the list is nearly endless, celebrities just adore the serene Polynesian vibes and Aloha Spirit.
Cameron Diaz loves the Hawaiian spiritFamous residents
Growing up in Oahu, Barack Obama must still have a little piece of Hawaii, and he regularly enjoys his winter vacations at Kailua Bay Beach.
The Obama’s luxury pad. IMAGE: Point EstatesOprah’s remote ranch sits on the side of Mount Haleakala on Maui, towering 4000 feet above the beautiful sea.
Oprah’s Hawaiian hideaway. IMAGE: Erik Aeder/GettyOf course, Beyonce and Jay Z love a slice of Hawaii, in the same neighbourhood as the Obamas.
The lap of luxury for Beyonce and Jay Z. IMAGE: Hilton & HylandIt wouldn’t be a celebrity hotspot if Rihanna didn’t have a house here! With tropical gardens, a Japanese bath house, a salt water lagoon and a stone fire pit, her pad on Paul Mitchell’s estate just screams luxury.
Rihanna’s escape. IMAGE: Air bnbFilm locations
Being so picturesque, it’s been used for many a film location. See if you can recognise scenes filmed in Forgetting Sarah Marshall, 50 First Dates and Punch Drunk Love.
Punch Drunk Love
Forgetting Sarah MarshallSee for yourself
Hawaii is the perfect place to relax, unwind and reset. With the very best boutique spas offering, among other treatments, traditional Hawaiian lomilomi massages, you can spend all day being pampered and indulged. Drift from hotel to spa to beach, enjoying the gorgeous, relaxing Hawaiian atmosphere.
Pure bliss