Big Island of Hawaii Travel Guide for Your Family Vacation

History on the Big Island of Hawaii

A Polynesian navigator, Hawai’iloa, discovered the Big Island of Hawaii. At least according to one of the many legends. Another legend shares this island used to be the realm of Hawaiki and was where people went in their afterlife.

However, this island was actually discovered by explorers from the Marquesas Islands. Those Polynesian explorers brought their cultures and traditions over to this island, and you can still experience them today.

The oldest section of the Big Island is the North Kohala Peninsula. If you want to see the most history during your vacation, I recommend spending a little time here.

Weather on the Big Island of Hawaii

You may be shocked to discover that there are really only two seasons on the Big Island of Hawaii! Then again, you might not be, because you know the weather in Hawaii is always amazing!

Summer in Hawaii

The months of May through October is summer on the Big Island of Hawaii. These months are quite dry. The temperatures average around 85 to 90 degrees during the day.

Winter in Hawaii

The temperatures do not drop much during the winter months in Hawaii. The months of November through April have temperatures between 79 and 83 degrees. The only major difference you will see weather-wise during these months is there will be much more rain. Some areas of the island get more rain than others, and the sun is almost always shining somewhere. Therefore, if you simply switch your plans a little for the day, you can avoid the rain altogether!

Best Time to Vacation on the Big Island of Hawaii

There really isn’t a “best” time to vacation in Hawaii. However, if you want to avoid the rain, I recommend visiting during the summer months. The middle of June through the end of August is the peak season. As is the middle of December through the middle of March. If you want to avoid an influx of people and higher prices, you may want to avoid those times.

Since this is your family vacation, you may want to choose to visit when there is the most daylight, so you can accomplish everything on your must-do list. The days in June have two and a half more hours of daylight than the days in December. I recommend keeping this in mind if you know your family will be active from sunup to sun-down.

What to Pack for a Family Vacation in Hawaii

Clothing items for warm weather is a must when packing for a family vacation in Hawaii. However, I recommend being prepared for the rain. Pack a raincoat or an umbrella. And if you know you will be going up to the mountainous regions, a warm jacket and even gloves and a hat will be helpful. After all, there can be snow up in the mountains, and it gets cold as you reach those higher elevations.

Places to Stay While on a Hawaiian Vacation with Family

You may not have as many unique accommodation options when you take a family vacation on the Big Island of Hawaii. However, you can still choose from an Airbnb, hotel, resort, and a select few bed and breakfasts. While every family has their own personal needs for vacations, I have discovered the resorts in Hawaii usually offer the best value and amenities. We can discuss your family’s personal vacation accommodation requirements, so we can determine the best accommodations for your Hawaiian vacation.

Foods You Must Try While on Vacation in Hawaii

Soft, sandy beaches, warm ocean water, and thrilling adventures are always the main reasons why people vacation in Hawaii. However, it may be the local foods that make you want to return to this gorgeous island in the future!

Main Foods

• Poke – Diced raw ahi tuna is used to make this popular Hawaiian dish. It is served with rice and multiple sauces. There are many different variations though, so you can often find it made with other types of raw fish.
• Acai Bowls – The warmer days of the year are perfect for acai bowls. But honestly, you can eat these fruity bowls whenever you would like! These smoothie bowls are made with acai berries, granola, other types of fruit, and numerous toppings. You can basically build the acai bowl of your dreams!
• Loco Moco – Loco moco is a bowl of rice topped with a burger and gravy.
• Kona Coffee – Okay, so Kona coffee is not a food, but it is a must-try drink when you are vacationing in Hawaii. The coffee beans for Kona coffee are grown in the Kona region of the Big Island. For the best experience, make sure you are getting 100% Kona coffee. The blends are only required to have 10% Kona coffee in them. Kona coffee is expensive, but it is worth the money from the very first sip!
• Furikake Chicken – Fried chicken is always delicious. Especially on the Big Island of Hawaii. I recommend trying the fried chicken that is coated with furikake seasoning. This seasoning is made with dried seaweed, bonito flakes, and sesame seeds.
• Spam Musubi – One of the most popular snacks in Hawaii is Spam Musubi. In fact, the locals in Hawaii eat the most Spam in the world! A slice of Spam is placed on top of a block of rice before being wrapped with Nori.

Desserts

• Shave Ice – If nothing else on this list of must-try foods in Hawaii sounds appealing, the shave ice will be something your family will love to eat! Fluffy, shaved ice is placed in a bowl. You get to cover it with a fruity syrup of your choice. This is the perfect treat on a nice hot day in Hawaii!
• Malasadas – The must-try donut in Hawaii is the Malasadas. This fried treat does not look like a traditional donut with a hole in the middle. It has a doughy center. Or it is filled with delightful ingredients like coconut. Malasadas are served warm and coated with granulated sugar.

Activities to Embrace While on Vacation in Hawaii

As a family, you will all enjoy doing a little manta ray diving over near Kona. And as the day turns into night, you can all venture over to Mauna Kea for some of the best stargazing views in the world. However, those aren’t the only popular activities on the Big Island. I also recommend considering adding the following activities to your Hawaii family vacation itinerary:

• ATV Riding
• Wandering Through the Rainforests
• Hiking
• Golfing
• Horseback Riding
• Soaking in a Hot Spring
• Surfing
• Whale Watching
• Ziplining over the Jungles, Rainforests, and Ravines

Top Places to See While on Vacation on the Big Island of Hawaii

Hawaii may be an island, but that doesn’t mean you will find yourself lacking in things to do during your vacation. Instead, you will find yourself in agony. Mainly because you won’t be able to fit everything on your must-do list in your itinerary! While you will have your own preferences, I guarantee you won’t want to leave these three top places off your list.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

There are two active volcanoes within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. However, Kilauea is a must-see volcano. It stands at four thousand feet tall, and while it hasn’t been erupting in recent months, it is a volcano that bears watching. If you are lucky, you may capture a glimpse of lava flow during your visit. And if you don’t get to see lava, at least you can see the volcano up close as you hike the nearby trails. Plus, you can venture to the summit of Mauna Kea for the views or do a little stargazing.

Akaka Falls State Park

If your family loves waterfalls and you want to check two off your list quickly, I recommend heading over to Akaka Falls State Park. The trail leading to the waterfalls is flat and paved, making it easy to navigate by even the smallest children. Plus, the trail is not long, and you can easily walk it in 30 minutes or less. While the views from the trail are amazing, the highlight will be when you arrive at Kahuna Falls and then Akaka Falls.

Hilo Farmers Market

When you are hungry, thirsty, and in the mood for a little shopping, you must venture over to the Hilo Farmers Market. This farmer’s market is open daily. It is the best place to grab a bite to eat while shopping at the same time. If you are looking for the most variety, I recommend visiting on a Wednesday or Saturday. This is when most vendors are there. This is when you will find some of the most unique items like jaboticaba fruit and bongo drums. It is also best to use caution when making purchases. Like everywhere else, you will have some fake items offered as local souvenirs.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Family Vacation on the Big Island of Hawaii

There are always going to be tips you must know before traveling to any destination around the world. My top tips for getting the most out of your family vacation on the Big Island of Hawaii include:

• Choose Your Accommodations Wisely – Together, we will find the perfect accommodations for your family.
• Rental Cars are a Must – You may not choose to rent on a car on most family vacations you take, but you must when you are visiting the Big Island of Hawaii. If you don’t, you will find yourself without any options for getting to the destinations you want to see the most.
• Plan a Luau Towards the End of Your Trip – The time change can be really daunting for some families. Since the luaus end really late, you may not be ready to stay up that long towards the beginning of your trip.
• Purchase Reef Safe Sunscreen – Skip packing the sunscreen in your suitcase and purchase the reef-safe version when you arrive. The coral reefs and marine life will thank you!
• Always Check the Weather Before Heading Out for the Day – When you check the weather in the morning, you can avoid mishaps like hiking in the rain and so much more. Most Hawaiian itineraries can have their days or times swapped if you do happen to encounter a rainstorm during your visit.

This travel guide should have you understand everything you need to know to have a fabulous family vacation on the Big Island of Hawaii! And if you have any questions, I can share the answers with you, as I am booking your Hawaiian vacation for you!

Are you ready to plan your family vacation to the Big Island of Hawaii?

If you are more than ready to have some fun on this Hawaiian Island with your family, I would love to invite you to click here to schedule a planning session with me. You will then be taken directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

And if you aren’t quite ready to finalize your plans for a Hawaiian family vacation, you can sign up for my newsletter here. This will allow you to stay connected with me and receive all the travel information I share in the future.

The post Big Island of Hawaii Travel Guide for Your Family Vacation appeared first on integritylawfirmcmr.com.

My Travel Guide to Norway

History of Norway 

The history of Norway begins long before the Viking Age. All the way back to 10000 BCE, people arrived in this area to hunt and fish. They continued to settle along the icy coastline while moving inland a little to farm.  

Once the Viking Age began, there was a battle with Britain over who owned the land. Some people were even expelled from Norway. Those people moved to Greenland in hopes of a better life.  

Norway finally received full independence in 1905. This country has had many other changes over the years. Now in the 21st century, history is still happening. One of the most exciting things is people can now hold dual citizenship while living in Norway. This may be helpful if your family falls in love with this destination during your family vacation.  

Weather in Norway 

Spring in Norway 

Spring usually begins during the month of May in Norway. The sun is normally shining at this time of the year. The temperatures start to climb too. However, don’t expect it to be too warm during a family vacation in Norway during the spring. And since the snow is melting, it will be wet and muddy.  

Summer in Norway 

The temperatures in Norway reach the upper 60s and low 70s during the summer. There are days when it will reach 80 degrees. So be prepared for warmer days on occasion. It will never get too hot in some regions of Norway. It is always best to check the weather of where you will be staying prior to packing.  

Fall in Norway 

The weather starts to get cooler during the fall. You may still see some warmer days, but they are few and far between.  

Winter in Norway 

The winter months can be bitterly cold in Norway. The temperatures usually fall well below freezing and stay there all day long. Snow will fall regularly too. Winter also brings really dark, long days here. Keep that in mind while planning your family vacation.  

What to Pack for a Family Vacation in Norway 

Packing for a family vacation in Norway can be challenging, depending on when you are visiting. Your family can usually wear T-shirts and shorts or pants during the day in the summer. Yet at night, you will need a sweater or light jacket to keep warm.  

Spring and fall months will require layers, as well as a raincoat and boots. During early spring or late fall, you may need even warmer clothes for your family trip.  

Heavy jackets, scarves, hats, and gloves are a must during the winter in Norway. This is especially true if your family plans on spending a lot of time outdoors. It is best to pack multiple layers for each day, so you can dress accordingly. I actually recommend wool clothing when visiting Norway during the winter because it will keep you the warmest.  

My travel guide to Norway doesn’t cover everything you should pack for your family vacation. Everyone has their own needs and wants while traveling, so simply use this as a guide and pack what you know your family will need!

Activities to Embrace While on a Family Vacation in Norway 

One of the best ways to explore Norway is by hiking the local trails. This is an excellent activity to get your family outside. Plus, you get to see some of the gorgeous landscapes throughout this country.  

Another option is to rent bicycles and ride your way through the countryside. This might be good if you want to see a few more places during your family vacation.  

During the winter months, you can head to the nearest ski slopes. And yet, during the warmer months of the year, you can go surfing or rafting or do a little kayaking on a river.  

One of the favorite activities in Norway, though, is checking out the Northern Lights or seeing the Midnight Sun. The Northern Lights can normally be seen in Norway between late September and late March. As for the Midnight Sun, this natural phenomenon occurs during the summer.  

Other activities to embrace while on a family vacation in Norway include: 

• Fishing 
• Birdwatching 
• Wildlife Safari 
• Train Ride  
• Ferry Ride 
• Scenic Drive 
• Cable Car Ride 

Top Places to See While on a Family Vacation in Norway 

There are just as many fabulous places to see while on a family vacation in Norway. The Polar Museum should be at the top of your list. This museum is within a former warehouse that was constructed back in 1837. Inside the museum, you will see galleries filled with the history of the Arctic expeditions.  

Other intriguing museums include the Ibsen Museum, the Viking Ship Museum, and the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History.  

Over at Vigeland Sculpture Park, your family can wander around to see more than two hundred sculptures created by Gustav Vigeland. These sculptures are all made from granite and bronze. There are several sections within this park. I recommend walking through each section completely before heading to the next.  

Visiting Oslo Cathedral should also be at the top of your list during a family vacation in Norway. This baroque church was the first church to be established in the country. While inside, you should pay close attention to the large organ, as well as to the colorful murals on the ceiling.  

Other top places to see while in Norway include: 

• Geirangerfjord Region 
• Arctic Cathedral 
• Akershus Castle 
• Village of Geiranger 
• Oslo City Hall 
• Tromso Fjords 

There are many other things to do in Norway, so don’t think you need only to include what is in my travel guide.

Amazing Festivals to Attend in Norway 

You will find plenty of festivals to attend during your Norway family vacation if you plan your trip right. I can’t possibly share all the different festivals in my travel guide to Norway. However, I am going to share the best ones.  

Oya Festival 

The Oya Festival is considered one of the biggest music festivals in Norway. This festival was first held in Oslo in 1999. Since then, it has continued to grow while featuring popular musicians over the course of four days.  

Riddu Riddu 

The Riddu Riddu Festival began back in 1991 as a way to protect and share the Sami culture with others. This festival is normally held during the month of July in Northern Troms.  

Saint Lucia’s Day 

Saint Lucia’s Day is held on December 13th to celebrate the festival of light. This is the arrival of Christmas and is considered a major Christmas feast day. Girls will dress up as Saint Lucia, as they sing songs and carry lights.  

Tips for a Fabulous Family Vacation in Norway 

I find it is always helpful to be aware of certain things before going on vacation anywhere. Especially when you are traveling with your family. There are a few tips you need to know in order to have a fabulous family vacation in Norway. Those tips include: 

• Renting a car is usually a must when on vacation in Norway. Public transportation can be slow and unreliable.  
• Book accommodations, transportation, and activities well in advance. Norway is a country that fills up quickly with travelers, especially at certain times of the year.  
• Credit cards are used instead of cash in Norway. Keep that in mind, so you have a credit card that won’t charge you fees every time you use it. You should also alert your credit card company that you are traveling so they don’t flag your account as possibly being used fraudulently.  
• Pack the appropriate clothes and remember layers so you don’t freeze during your stay. If you have teenagers that love packing their own clothes without listening to your advice, either throw a few things in your suitcase for them or be prepared to make a few purchases upon your arrival. After all, we all know how teenagers are when it comes to dressing for the weather! 
• Always buy the chocolate. Norwegian chocolate is the best! Buy extra to take home with you. Like, by the case, so you don’t run out too quickly! 

Now that you have read my travel guide to Norway, you know many of the things you should be aware of for your family vacation. Yes, there are other things you may need to be aware of, but we can cover those as I am creating your personalized family vacation itinerary. I always make sure my clients have everything they need before heading to a new destination for a family trip.  

So, are you ready to have me personalize a family vacation itinerary for your next trip?  

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a family vacation itinerary planning session with me. When you click this link, you will be taken directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you. 

Not ready to receive your personalized family vacation yet? Sign up for my newsletter and continue to receive all the travel information I share.  

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History on the Island of Kauai

The island of Kauai was formed more than five million years ago. An active hot spot from below the Pacific Tectonic Plate spewed magma up into the air. When that magma landed, it formed this island, as well as the other Hawaiian Islands. The Polynesians were the first people to live on Kauai. However, it is the traditions and cultures of the Tahitians, who arrived on Kauai many years later, that you will experience today during your visit. Europeans arrived on the island of Kauai in the late 1700s. They brought new trades and business ideas to the island. However, none of them could erase the significant history that was already in place on the island of Kauai.

Weather in Kauai

As with all the other Hawaiian Islands, Kauai only has two seasons. Those two seasons are summer and winter. And while there are two distinct seasons on this island, you can’t really tell the difference between the two. The reason for this is the temperatures are only a few degrees apart.

Summer in Kauai

Summer in Kauai is slightly warmer, so you will see the thermometer rise if you vacation there at this time of the year. There is also less rain in Kauai during the summer months. If you happen to stay on the East or North Shore, you will still get more rain than you would on the Southern shoreline.

Winter in Kauai

The winter months in Kauai bring a lot more rain, especially on the North and East Shore. The temperatures will also decrease slightly, but it never really gets below the 70s. Visiting during the winter months may mean lots of rain, but it is excellent for seeing lush flowers and other foliage.

Best Time to Vacation in Kauai

The best time to vacation in Kauai is either between the months of April and June or September and November. The temperatures are quite mild during those months, so you won’t need to deal with the extreme heat on the island. Plus, the cost of airfare and accommodations is lower during these times of the year.

What to Pack for a Family Vacation in Kauai

Most of the time, a family vacation in Hawaii is going to include packing a lot of shorts, t-shirts, and sundresses. A vacation on the island of Kauai, though is also going to include raincoats and umbrellas. The extra rain you will experience when on this island will not put a damper on your plans if you are dressed accordingly!

Places to Stay While on a Kauai Vacation with Family

Resorts are a popular option for accommodations when vacationing in Kauai with your family. However, I can also search for bed and breakfasts and vacation rental homes and condos for your stay. I understand that every family is unique. This is the main reason why I don’t only work with one resort or one resort brand. I prefer to customize every vacation for your personal needs, and that includes where you will all lay your head down at night!

Foods You Must Try While on Vacation in Kauai

One of my favorite parts of traveling is getting to try new foods! Even if you have a family of picky eaters, there is going to be at least one local food that everyone will love. A few of the must-try foods in Kauai include:

• Taro – Taro is a vegetable that has been included in Hawaiian dishes for many years. You can eat the entire plant. The leaves are similar to kale and spinach. The roots are used the most often, though. Most of the time, taro is included in poi dishes. The roots are normally steamed and have a sour taste.
• Lilikoi – Lilikoi is the Hawaiian term for passion fruit. While you can eat lilikoi on its own, I recommend having lilikoi pie. If you decide you love lilikoi, you can purchase lilikoi mustard, syrup, and jelly to take home with you.
• Lomi Lomi Salmon – In Hawaiian, lomi lomi means to massage. So, with this dish, your salted salmon will be massaged before being mixed with green onion, sweet onion, and tomatoes. The locals mix their lomi lomi salmon with kalua pork and poi to create what they call a broke mouth ono.
• Puka Dog – The puka dog is considered the Hawaiian hot dog. A Polish sausage is tucked into a piece of toasted Hawaiian sweet bread. While that would be delicious enough, what really makes this dish is the numerous toppings! A garlic lemon sauce is put on first, and then you can choose from a few sweet fruit toppings. I prefer mango or pineapple, but papaya, banana, star fruit, and coconut are also options.

Activities to Embrace While on Vacation in Kauai

You may be tempted to spend long lazy days at the beaches on the island of Kauai. However, I recommend adding so much more to your family’s itinerary! After all, where else in the world can you paddle into sea caves, swim with turtles inside a sparkling cove, and hike deep down into a canyon to see a waterfall?

Other incredible family activities to embrace while on vacation in Kauai include:

• Ziplining through the tops of trees in the forest
• Helicopter rides down into the valleys
• Paddling along a sacred river
• ATV rides
• Attending a Luau
• Mountain tubing
• Snorkeling
• Swimming
• Boat tours
• Train rides through plantations
• Wander through botanical gardens
• Horseback riding tours
• Cross a Swinging Bridge

Top Places to See While on Vacation in Kauai

There is so much to see and do when you are on a family vacation in Kauai. I don’t want you to spend hours searching to find the best places to visit, so I thought I would share the three must-visit destinations on the island of Kauai.

Waimea Canyon

Waimea Canyon is near Koke’e State Park, and it is easy to check both these destinations off your list in one day. The canyon is considered the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. It is fourteen miles wide and more than three thousand feet deep. If you are looking for a picturesque landscape, you can’t go wrong with a visit to Waimea Canyon. The craggy cliffs, crested buttes, and lush vegetation will overwhelm your senses. Just don’t forget to seek out the rivers and waterfalls that will take your visit to the next level. This is an excellent location for hiking too. I recommend the Waipo’o Falls Trail or the Cliff Trail Lookout, but any of them will provide an afternoon of adventure for your family.

Hanalei Bay

If you are staying in an exclusive resort during your vacation in Kauai, you are most likely in the Hanalei Bay area. There are three beaches in this area, and they all lead to the others. Therefore, you can begin at Waioli Beach Park before wandering down to either Black Pot Beach or Hanalei Beach Park. These beaches offer lots of sandy space, so they never seem too crowded. You must be aware that Hanalei Bay is a favorite of the local surfers though, so you will want to be prepared for extra people during the height of the surfing season.

Napali Coast

This coastline can be found on the northwest shoreline of Kauai. The Napali Coast is seventeen miles long and is filled with massive steep rocky cliffs. You cannot travel along this coastline in a car. Instead, you must choose to either hike to see the natural beauty of the area or plan to take a boat or helicopter tour. I must warn you that the hike along the Kalalau Trail is quite strenuous. If you are not an experienced hiker, it is best to choose one of the other tour options I mentioned above.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Family Vacation in Kauai

I know you want to have the best vacation ever when you are over on the island of Kauai. To make sure that happens, I have decided to share a few tips that will help you get the most out of your family vacation in Kauai.

• Rent a Vehicle – Public transportation on Kauai isn’t very good, so I always recommend renting a car when you are vacationing on this island.
• Practice Travel Pono – Travel pono means to travel righteously when you are in Kauai. Basically, it means do not litter, be respectful of the land, and leave every space cleaner than it was when you arrived. This will ensure the island will stay beautiful for many years to come.
• Keep an Open Mind When Experiencing the Culture – While you will learn so much about the culture in Kauai, you will also learn so much more about yourself at the same time.
• Be Safe When Exploring – You may want to simply hit the open road when you are vacationing in Kauai, but it is best to be prepared for many different scenarios before you do. I recommend checking out the current weather conditions before venturing out for the day. This will ensure you do not get stuck in a storm or have hotter weather than you were prepared for.

These are many of the things you must know before planning a fabulous vacation in Kauai! I want you to know that you do not need to plan this vacation on your own. As an expert travel advisor, I can customize your dream family vacation in Kauai for you!

So, are you ready to plan your family vacation in Kauai?

If you answered yes to that question, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a planning session with me. When you click on this link, you will be taken to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.

If you are not quite ready to get the planning process started, I would love to invite you to sign up for my newsletter here. You will continue to receive all the travel information I share, as we stay in touch until you are ready to plan your next family vacation.

The post Plan Your Family Vacation in Kauai with this Travel Guide appeared first on integritylawfirmcmr.com.

History on the Island of Maui

The island of Maui still honors its past, despite constructing numerous visitor attractions over the years. One of the best locations on the island to visit to experience the history is the town of Lahaina. This town was the very first capital of what was once known as the Kingdom of Hawaii. It was once a whaling port before turning into a plantation settlement. I recommend you take the self-guided tour through Lahaina to experience the history firsthand.

As soon as you finish exploring Lahaina with your family, you will want to check out the history that lies within the ranches, plantations, and missionaries. And if you are feeling quite adventurous, you can venture to the slopes of Haleakala to find the gravesite of Charles Lindbergh. The cemetery is located next to the Palapala Ho’omau Church and is approximately twelve miles past Hana.

Weather in Maui

The island of Maui offers a multitude of micro-climates. This means it could be raining on one side of the island and sunny on the other side. As we are planning your family vacation in Hawaii, I will help you decide where you should stay and what you should do according to the different weather patterns you may encounter. And don’t worry, the weather can change instantly on this island, so what starts out as a rainy and cool morning can turn into a gorgeously sunny and warm day!

There are basically only two seasons on the island of Maui. Those two seasons are summer and winter. And honestly, there is very little difference between the two seasons. Summertime includes the months of April through October, and winter is from November through March.

Summer in Maui

Summer in Maui is usually very dry and warm. The temperatures reach the middle to upper 80s during the day and very rarely go below the mid-60s. This is also the time of the year when the ocean water reaches temperatures in the middle 80s.

Winter in Maui

The winter months in Maui bring lower temperatures, with December through February being the coldest. The high temperatures during the day will only be in the low 80s, while the lows at night reach the middle 60s. The ocean water temperature drops at this time of the year as well. This means you will only be swimming in water that is in the mid-70s. Rain is more prominent at this time of the year, but that rain does bring massive waves for surfers.

Best Time to Vacation in Maui

There really isn’t the best time to vacation in Maui because the weather is nice there all year long. However, if you want to keep the weather, crowd levels, and costs in mind, I would have to say that the months of April, May, August, September, and October are the best time to take a vacation in Maui. During those months, you will experience nice weather, as well as fewer crowds and lower prices.

What to Pack for a Family Vacation in Maui

Since Maui is a summer destination all year round, you must pack shorts, t-shirts, skirts, and sundresses for your time on this island. Yes, pants and sweatshirts may also be necessary, depending on where you are visiting on the island. An umbrella and raincoat will also be helpful on occasion. Your goal is to pack comfortable and casual clothing, as well as a couple of nicer outfits for those fine dining occasions.

Places to Stay While on a Maui Vacation with Family

The resorts on Maui are the most popular options amongst many families. However, you can also choose to stay at one of the many hotels, bed, and breakfasts, and even vacation rentals. I can help you find the perfect accommodations for your family vacation in Maui. Therefore, if you want to stay in a secluded bungalow by the beach, and there is one available, I will make your beachfront bungalow dreams come true!

Foods You Must Try While on Vacation in Maui

Like all the other Hawaiian Islands, there are a few foods you must try when you are vacationing in Maui. Some of the foods are also must-try options on some of the other islands.

A few of the local foods you must try while on vacation in Maui include:

• Maui Pineapples – You can find Maui pineapples at many farm stands and luaus. However, you may prefer to take a pineapple plantation tour before tasting this delicious fruit!
• Lunch Plate or Mixed Plate Lunch – The lunch plate or mixed plate lunch is a standard dish in Maui. Both dishes include protein, rice, and salad. The only difference between the two is the lunch plate contains one protein, while the mixed plate lunch includes two types of protein.
• Poke – Poke is a staple on any of the Hawaiian Islands. This diced raw fish dish is served in many ways, so I recommend trying a few different options during your Maui vacation.
• Spam – The locals in Hawaii eat the most Spam in the world, which is why there are so many more varieties for sale there! This mainstay dish has been popular on the islands since World War II. Back then, it was a simple way to spend as little money as possible while feeding the soldiers a filling meal. Today, there are many different Spam dishes available for you to try when you are on vacation in Maui. Spam musubi is the dish you will see the most in Maui, but you will also find the Spam, eggs, and rice breakfast and the Spam and hash breakfast.
• Shave Ice – You cannot visit any of the Hawaiian Islands and not indulge in at least one bowl of shaved ice! The shaved ice is often topped with fruity flavors< but you can also have it topped with coconut, azuki bean, or condensed milk.

Activities to Embrace While on Vacation in Maui

Your time in Maui can be spent surfing, snorkeling, and dancing at Luaus. But there are so many other activities you must embrace while you are making memories in Maui. A few favorite activities in Maui include:

• Parasailing
• Treasure Hunting
• Hiking
• Underwater Submarine Tours
• Mermaid Adventures – Yes, you get to learn how to swim like a mermaid!
• Ziplining
• Windsurfing
• Kitesurfing
• Stargazing
• Rappelling Down Waterfalls
• Whale Watching

Top Places to See While on Vacation in Maui

I could instantly share dozens of attractions and places for you to see while you are on your family vacation in Maui. However, I thought it would be most helpful if I shared the top three that must be on your itinerary. This will ensure you see the best Maui has to offer and still have time for those other adventures you have been dreaming about!

The Road to Hana

The Road to Hana twists and turns along the eastern shoreline of the island. You will find yourself driving through lush rainforests and past rushing waterfalls as you stop at one lookout after another. This road is fifty-two miles long and is filled with hairpin turns. This is a daylong adventure your family won’t want to miss. And while you can make this drive on your own, it is usually best to leave the driving to a tour company. That way, you can focus on the scenery instead of your white knuckles on the steering wheel!

Waianapanapa State Park

Every state park within the Hawaiian Islands is worthy of a visit. However, Waianapanapa State Park offers the opportunity for your family to sink their toes into black sand. While you may be tempted to take a quick walk along the black sandy shoreline and take a few pictures, I recommend you spend at least half the day at this stunning state park. Freshwater caves can be discovered if you take the time to do a little hiking. And if you don’t want to swim in the pools within those caves, you can always stick to the trails that weave along the coast. Those trails will take you to natural blowholes, sea stacks, and burial grounds.

Haleakala National Park

This national park is quite large and is comprised of thirty thousand acres of land on the island of Maui. It is best to make the drive to the summit of Haleakala early in the morning to watch the sun as it rises. Afterward, it will be all about the Haleakala Crater and the Pipiwai Trail. That trail will lead you directly to Waimoku Falls.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Family Vacation in Maui

Vacations in Maui are a lot of fun, but your family will want to be aware of a few things prior to your arrival. The best tips I have to share with you for vacations in Maui include:

• The Maui Bus – Getting around the island of Maui doesn’t need to be a challenge! Instead of renting a vehicle, you should consider taking the Maui Bus. The convenient schedule will allow you to see many of the highlights of the island for a small fee.
• Take Advantage of Happy Hours – If you want to save some cash on food and drinks, I recommend taking advantage of the happy hours you discover at the local restaurants.
• Consider Volunteering – To truly get the full Maui experience, I recommend volunteering for an organization during your family vacation. This is an excellent way to see some of the more remote destinations in Maui, as well as make some lifelong friends.
• Embrace Hawaiian Time – Things do not usually start on time in Maui because they take a laid-back approach to life. I recommend embracing this Hawaiian time and using the waiting time for a little extra relaxation or people-watching.

Now that you know everything you should for a spectacular family vacation in Maui, I must ask you….

Are you ready to plan your family vacation on the island of Maui?

I know you are more than ready to get away from the hustle and bustle of life and enjoy a few precious days with your family. So, if you are ready to start planning your family vacation in Maui, I would love to invite you to click here to schedule a planning session with me. This will take you directly to my digital calendar, where you can schedule a time that is convenient for you.

And if you aren’t quite ready to start the planning process, I would love to invite you to sign up for my newsletter here. This will ensure you receive all the travel information I share, as you contemplate where and when you will take your next family vacation!

The post Plan Your Family Vacation in Maui with this Travel Guide appeared first on integritylawfirmcmr.com.

History on the Island of Oahu

Oahu was one of the very first Hawaiian Islands discovered when Captain James Cook was on his third Pacific Expedition. However, people have been living on this island since at least the third century. Therefore, it is not surprising that Oahu is also known as The Gathering Place. Since approximately two-thirds of the people living in Hawaii live on Oahu, this nickname does seem fitting. And since more people visit Oahu than any other of the Hawaiian Islands, this island truly is the gathering place of many.

While numerous resorts and other construction have taken place on Oahu over the years to accommodate all the tourists, the history of this island can still be found in many locations. Ancient history is apparent within the temple ruins, preserved palaces, and even statues honoring those from the past. When you choose to visit Oahu, you will have ample opportunities to experience the Polynesian culture. This culture has been a mainstay on this island for centuries.

Weather in Oahu

As with all the other Hawaiian Islands, the island of Oahu only has two seasons. Those seasons are summer and winter, and honestly, there isn’t much difference between the two temperature-wise.

Summer in Oahu

The sun almost always shines directly overhead in Oahu during the summer months. The warmest temperatures can be seen during the months of July, August, and September. There is little rain during the summer months.

Winter in Oahu

The sun is lower in the sky during the winter months in Oahu, which makes it feel cooler than it really is. Once you add in the extra rain, you may find yourself with a dreary hour or two. The waves also increase in intensity during this time of the year. You will want to be extra cautious if you venture into the ocean for a swim.

Best Time to Vacation in Oahu

Oahu is stunning at any time of the year, so there really isn’t the best time to visit. Unless you want to avoid certain weather patterns, larger crowds, and higher prices. If you want fewer people, cheaper accommodations, and temperatures that are not too hot, I recommend vacationing in Oahu during April, May, September, or October. If those months do not fit into your vacation timeline, I can recommend another month according to your personal requirements.

What to Pack for a Family Vacation in Oahu

You won’t be too cold whenever you visit the island of Oahu. Shorts, t-shirts, and sundresses should do the trick when packing! A raincoat or umbrella will be handy during rainy times. A light jacket is perfect for those cooler days out on the water.

I do recommend packing a couple of casual, yet dressy, outfits for those fine dining out occasions.

Places to Stay While on an Oahu Vacation with Family

As I mentioned above, Oahu is the most popular island for vacationing families like yours. Therefore, you can expect to find multiple luxury resort and boutique hotel options when you are searching for a place to stay. If resorts and boutique hotels are not your things for family vacations, I can always find a bed and breakfast, hotel, or vacation rental that will meet your vacationing needs.

Foods You Must Try While on Vacation in Oahu

All the Hawaiian Islands offer amazing local foods you must eat. However, Oahu has a few specialties you won’t want to miss out on when you are visiting. A few of the must-try foods in Oahu include:

• Manapua – This delicacy is the Hawaiian version of a Chinese pork dumpling. This dumpling is normally stuffed with savory fillings, but you can find them with sweet fillings as well. A couple of favorite options include the steamed spicy cream cheese and crab, Kalua pig, spinach and cheese, and the strawberry pop tart.
• Beef Chips – Beef chips are also called pipikaula. They were devoured by the cowboys working on the ranches in Oahu. While beef chips are similar to beef jerky, they are actually paper thin and will melt in your mouth. No chewing is necessary when enjoying these treats!
• Mochi – Mochi is basically a Japanese rice cake. It has a chewy texture that makes donuts, waffles, and other desserts taste amazing.
• Tropical Fruits – Since you are on a tropical island, you might as well taste all the different tropical fruits that are available! A couple to consider sinking your teeth into include mangos, papayas, lychee, apple bananas, and honey cream pineapples.
• Macadamia Nuts – You can find macadamia nuts at a few farms in Oahu, but these nuts are used in many dishes you can order at different restaurants and food trucks.
• Huli Huli Chicken – Huli Huli chicken is basically chicken that is barbecued over mesquite wood. The barbecue sauce is a mixture of soy sauce, pineapple, and ginger.
• Lau Lau – This dish is pork and butterfish wrapped in both taro and ti leaves. Once the protein is wrapped, it is steamed before serving it with a side of rice.

Activities to Embrace While on Vacation in Oahu

Swimming, surfing, snorkeling, and building sandcastles are a couple of the fun family activities you can do while you are at the beach in Oahu. However, this incredible Hawaiian Island offers so many other fantastic activities your entire family will love! If you truly want to fall in love with Oahu, I recommend you add a few of these thrilling activities to your itinerary.

• Catamaran Cruise
• Hiking to the Waterfalls
• Swimming with the Dolphins
• Whale Watching
• Dance at a Luau
• Train Rides
• Helicopter Flight

Top Places to See While on Vacation in Oahu

Oahu may only be approximately six hundred square miles, but it offers hundreds of different attractions for you to explore. We both know you can’t see all of them when you are taking a family vacation in Oahu. However, you can see your personal favorites if you plan your days accordingly.

If you are unsure of where to begin when it comes to choosing which attractions are a must-do for your family, take a look at my top three places to see while on vacation in Oahu.

Iolani Palace

Iolani Palace was constructed back in 1882. It is the only official state royal residence within the United States. There are ten rooms inside this palace, and now serves as a museum. When you arrive, you must place cloth booties on your feet to protect the Koa wood floors. During your visit, you will see the personal items of King Kalakaua and his sister, Queen Liliuokalani.

Diamond Head State Monument

The Diamond Head State Monument is a massive crater that was created approximately three hundred thousand years ago. Diamond Head happens to be one of the most recognizable features on the island of Oahu. If you want to hike up to the summit of this tuff cone, I recommend arriving early in the morning. The seven-hundred-sixty-foot hike can be difficult in some areas. Plus, this is a popular attraction, so it gets busier as it gets later in the day.

Waikiki Beach

Waikiki Beach is one of the best beaches on the island of Oahu. You can simply sink your toes in the sand as you walk along the shoreline or relax on your beach towel. Of course, you can catch a wave or two if you are brave enough to venture out in the water with all the other surfers. Oh, and when you get tired of the sun, sand, and water, there are plenty of stores and restaurants over on Kalakaua Avenue to keep you occupied for hours!

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Family Vacation in Oahu

There are so many things you must know before you book your family vacation in Oahu. I wanted to share a few of my best tips, so you can have an idea of what you should know as you are thinking about your vacation options.

• Choose Your Accommodations Wisely – You may have heard that staying in Waikiki is a must. But if you want to do multiple things further away from Waikiki, you may want to stay closer to those attractions.
• Rental Cars are a Must – It is very difficult to get around Oahu if you do not have a rental vehicle. If you don’t plan on exploring much of the island and only want to stay in Waikiki, you can skip the rental car.
• Plan Your Trip Carefully if You Want to Watch Professional Surfers – Professional surfers arrive in Oahu to catch the waves during the winter months. So, if you want to sit and watch these surfers all day, you must plan your vacation for when they are there.
• The North Shore is Further than Waikiki than You Think – Many people think they can get from the North Shore to Waikiki in no time at all. But during rush hour traffic, it can take at least two hours to make this journey. Plan your time accordingly if you plan on traveling between these two locations in one day.

These are all the things you must know when you are planning a family vacation in Oahu. Of course, I will be with you every step of the way if you choose to have me plan your Oahu vacation for you. As a travel advisor, I keep your vacation wants and needs in mind when I am planning a customized vacation for your family.

Are you ready to plan your family vacation in Oahu?

It is time to get away from the hustle and bustle of work and life, as you enjoy some time with your family. If you are ready to start planning your family vacation in Oahu, I would love to invite you to click here to schedule a planning session with me. You will then be taken directly to my digital calendar, where you can schedule a time that is convenient for you.

If you aren’t quite ready to start planning for Oahu yet, you can easily sign up for my newsletter by clicking here. This will ensure you continue to receive all the travel information I share. That way, you have everything you need when you decide it is finally time to plan your next family adventure!

The post Plan Your Family Vacation in Oahu with this Travel Guide appeared first on integritylawfirmcmr.com.