Kauai offers beautiful residential options, though inventory goes fast, and there arent as many home options as on Maui, says Neibaur. The islands have changed and become more commercialized in some areas, but their beauty and ethos have remained. Our points-obsessed staff uses a plethora of credit cards on a daily basis. Awards can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 35,000 Marriott Bonvoy points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy. If you are concerned about the noise, dont be. Haleakala is home to Maui's highest peak, soaring 10,023 feet above sea level. The Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa. "We've decided to postpone traveling because of the pandemic." Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe to share their opinions on the top cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. The best time to visit Hawaii's Big Island is between September and November. Seahorse farm tour. Then we breezed through TSA and were at our gate within 20 minutes. Cookies collect information about your preferences and your device and are used to make the site work as you expect it to, to understand how you interact with the site, and to show advertisements that are targeted to your interests. Europeans from the English to the French to the Dutch to the Spanish all staked claim to certain islands, and their influence is also still felt in many places. Research your Caribbean island choice to get a feel for whether youd feel comfortable exploring beyond your resort or not. Depending on what part of the U.S. you call home, it could be easier to get to either the Caribbean or Hawaii. According to The Inter-American Development Bank tourism accounts for 34-48% of GDP for the countries like the Bahamas, Barbados, and Jamaica. The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua has its own take on a work and play package, called OOO (Out of the Ordinary)families can get away together and still be productive at work or school in residential suites with small kitchens; they can move to the poolside cabana if they just need to listen in on the Zoom call. If you were to take Hawaiian Airlines' nonstop flight from Boston to Honolulu, you're looking at spending nine hours and 40 minutes inflight. 12. What started as a family holiday reunion in Maui ended with a disappointing, but sensible, call: "Honey," my dad said. Both of the islands only have 74 active cases at the moment. But unlike drivable U.S. destinations, which saw a surge in summer visitors, Hawaii's beaches remained quiet and . I barely had to lift a finger because a QR code could be used to make a reservation, check out the menu, and order room service. A negative COVID-19 test result or a vaccination record document must be uploaded to the Safe Travel portal to obtain . You could stay in a favorite of Barack and Michelle Obamathe 5-bedroom, 5.5-bathroom, plantation-style Estate, recommended by Debbie Misajon of the Coconut Traveler. On the eastern edge of Waikikis coastline, the Diamond Head state monument is known for its breathtaking views, hiking trails and military history. Travelers who have been vaccinated in Hawaii will be able to skip testing or quarantine measures when hopping from island to island in just a few weeks, the state's . Be sure to stop by hole number 17, a golfers favorite that is tucked into a natural amphitheater. You will find many places along the way where it is easy to rent a paddleboard for the day. From somewhere like New York or Texas, you could reasonably take the kids to the Caribbean for a long weekend, whereas that would probably not be enough time for kids to adjust and enjoy Hawaii. Limited Time Offer: Earn 125,000 Bonus Marriott Bonvoy Points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of Card Membership. Heres an in-depth look at the all-inclusive beach resorts you can book on points in the Caribbean. FYI: they call your mobile phone on the spot to double-check the number you wrote on the form. We'll run a soft credit check to find special offers, but it wont affect your credit score. Children younger than 2 years old should not wear a mask. But that isnt as true on every island. If youre staying in a house or villa, request that your provisions come from a local farmer or rancher, she said. Related: Little-known Caribbean islands to visit before everyone else. Avoid a surprise seating situation, such as the oneI encountered, by confirming your seats with the gate agent prior to boarding. If youre traveling to the Caribbean from June to August and worried about a hurricane, pick an island such as Barbados or Trinidad thats outside of the traditional hurricane-prone zone. Tropical cyclones can hit the Hawaiian Islands, and many islands in the Caribbean are subject to hurricanes. Theres enhanced Wi-Fi to stay connected everywhere on the 53-acre property. We hope that this year's honorees will inspire your own travels as you get back out into the world. What is the processing time and price? Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor, or humpback whales? Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPGs editors and is not influenced by the card issuer. On the other hand, the Caribbean has a network of rum distilleries that offer tours and tastings. Watching the sunset along Hanalei Bay on Kauai is also something special that everyone should experience at least once in a lifetime. In the days leading up to our flight, questions kept me awake at night: Will Duke keep his mask on? "It is stunning," wrote one reader. Best card for premium perks while traveling, Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, The Business Platinum Card from American Express, Marriott Bonvoy Business American Express Card, Southwest unveils stunning new Hawaii-themed aircraft, How to redeem Chase Ultimate Rewards points for maximum value, IHG Rewards Premier Business card review: The annual fee is justified. The name said it all, and it tasted like a tropical margarita slightly sweet with tajin (chili lime seasoning) syrup. In the Caribbean, youll find historic forts, former sugar cane plantations, rum distilleries and plenty of coffee beans in the mountains of Jamaica. You can hike, sail, dive or snorkel in either destination, though whale watching is definitely better in Hawaii. Book a guide to drive you up, so you can learn about the dormant volcanic crater and its history. A s soon as we were free to island-hop without a 14-day quarantine, my family boarded a flight from Honolulu to Kona. Photo: by Laura Dornbush. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); #mc_embed_signup{background:#000000; clear:left; font:14px Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif; width:100%;} Hawaiibetter known as the Big Islandis the largest of the island chain, with more than 10 diverse climate zones. But theres so much more to Hawaii (and the Caribbean) than the resorts. ), With proper precautions, people are booked, but looking at cancellation windows closely, says Ken Neibaur, a luxury travel advisor with La Jolla, Californiabased travel agency TravelEdge. 2), which is also voted among the world's best islands, received glowing reviews for its pristine beaches and nature trails that wind through jungles to waterfalls. If youre into wildlife, you can see dolphins, sea turtles and stingrays in both Hawaii and the Caribbean. So which island could outdo these beloved options? Its important to monitor fares from both airlines since they offer great deals from their West Coast gateways. Her work has been featured in. Then, of course, youll have to allow time for clearing customs on both the front and back ends of the trip. On December 24, the Biden administration announced it would lift. Flights from hubs such as the New York City area, Chicago, Charlotte, Miami and others are plentiful especially to major islands. Whatever you choose to do, Hawaii will always be a dream destination. People come from all over the world for Hawaiis waters, and the island chain is a major draw for surfers. Few things compare to sunsets over Oahu, so if youre on the island, a sunset sail on a Makani catamaran is a must-do. The Grand Wailea is huge, but it is a great family resort. */, Travelinglifestyle.net is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com, Copyright 2022 Traveling Lifestyle Network, LLC. If service is important to you, remember that some Caribbean countries are newer to the tourism industry than others. King likes the area around the Mauna Kea, and has rented a condo there with his wife, Barbara, for a couple of months at a time, since its away from crowds, with good beaches and activities. At Wailea Beach Resort, I had the rewarding experience of creating Hawaiian quilts for elders in hospice care on the island. The beach is likely a major draw whether you plan to vacation in Hawaii or the Caribbean. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has lifted its requirement for travelers to test negative for Covid-19 before entering the United States. Should you want to use Southwest points to get to Hawaii (or the Caribbean) those points count toward earning a Companion Pass. With some of the most diverse marine diversity on the planet, it is no wonder that people flock to the Maui Ocean Center for an up-close look at the species of the island chain. We say theres no universally bad time to visit either destination. The luau had just reopened four days before I attended, and the new arrangement included reduced seating, resulting in a wait-list for the rest of December. Travel + Leisure is published by Meredith Corporation under license from Travel + Leisure Co. Here's what it was like to travel to the Hawaiian island during peak season in December amid the COVID-19 pandemic. This tour will take you to the Na Pali Coastline, Waimea Canyon, Mount Waialeale, and Kauais breathtaking waterfalls. Molokai Molokai is the least visited island of Hawaii. There are also nonstop flights to Hawaii from many of those same hub cities. For example, we found flights to St. Croix from a number of East Coast cities for under $100 round-trip in August. The park offers picnic facilities, restrooms and concession stands. It has lots of different options and room types, and all rooms are ocean-facing. If you're planning to travel to the islands of the Caribbean, here are some resources to help you plan your trip during the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. The basics. Credit ranges are a variation of FICO Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application. Consider the beachside Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, which was voted the best hotel on the island (and No. LESLIE HARVEY/THE POINTS GUY Military personnel stationed at Pearl Harbor wrote home about the islands secluded beaches, waterfalls, lava flows and tunnels and so much more. See all of our readers' favorite hotels, cities, airlines, cruise lines, and more in the World's Best Awards for 2021. The 243-room property has seven swimming pools, a full service spa, and a 1.8 million gallon swimmable aquarium with marine biologists at the ready to teach you about the 90 kinds of tropical fish that live in it. Makena Landing park, Waimea Bay, Hanalei River and Lanikai Beach are some of the most coveted spots for stand up paddleboarding. There are volcanoes there, too, as well as secluded beaches and historic old towns with an unmistakable European flair. The nonstop flight time from San Francisco to Honolulu is just about five hours. Theyre wedged between the southernmost tip of Florida to the north, South America to the south and Central America to the west. If youre a Southwest traveler, youre probably already aware of its Companion Pass that lets a companion travel with you for just the cost of the tickets taxes. Enjoy Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status with your Card. This point is an excellent photo spot and was once the place where spectators stood to watch Amelia Earhart take her first solo flight from Hawaii to the mainland United States. Travel along the Road to Hana to experience East Maui's scenic coastline, explore Haleakala - the world's largest dormant volcano - in the Upcountry and discover the former tribal battlegrounds. You can have memorable, relaxing family vacations in either the Caribbean or Hawaii. Masks are still strongly recommended for people over age 65, those with compromised immune systems or who care for people at risk of severe illness, and those unvaccinated for COVID-19. At that moment, I knew I had arrived in paradise. From snorkeling to sunset cruises, history tours and coffee tastings, there is no shortage of things to do in Hawaii during COVID. Neither group of islands is likely to have many hotels at the lowest award rates, but there are resorts that cross the middle and upper ranges of the award spectrum. Go Hawaii has up-to-date information on current travel requirements and restrictions. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). There's no shortage of natural splendor, exciting adventure activities, and high-caliber resorts on the best islands of Hawaii. Safe travels! Try renting a kayak at sunrise for a surreal experience. We soon observed their mother nearby, keeping a watchful eye on her calves an only-in-Hawaii memory that will last a lifetime. Published on April 21, 2021. The path to these falls is as beautiful as the destination itself, especially in the mornings when it is still not very cloudy. (Youll even find an included kids club at Aulani. Akaka Falls State Park is home to two gorgeous waterfalls and an abundance of lush tropical greenery that never fail to impress visitors. Oahu Hidden Gems Tour + Snorkeling with Turtles I enjoyed the friendly conversation I had with a local, who showed me how to stitch as she shared stories about Hawaiian culture and how tourism in Maui has shifted amid the pandemic. #1 in Best Hawaiian Islands to Visit Though it's perhaps most famous for the fabulous coastlines of Ka'anapali Beach and Wailea Beach, Maui is a great option for first-timers who are looking. Improve earnings, maximize rewards and track progress toward dream trips. A Black American Traveler Shares His Experience of Visiting Africa for the First Time, What It Was Like Going on a Safari Amid the Coronavirus Pandemic, I Traveled to Hawaii During the Coronavirus Pandemic Here's What It Was Like, Maui Has Become a Go-to Destination for Pandemic-era Travelers Here's How to Experience It Beyond the Beaches, travel procedures amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The whole place had an air of solitary leisure. Its a beautiful, unspoiled island. We pulled our masks tighter, wiped every inch of the seat, buckled up and hoped for the best. Both destinations have fantastic, balmy weather year-round, palm trees and fragrant tropical flowers, white- or black-sand beaches, forests filled with hiking trails, plenty of offshore activities and a ton of ways to get there and stay with miles and points. Neibaur also loves to recommend the home rental options at the Four Seasons complex, especially for those seeking more privacy now. Maui has numerous resorts, where travelers tend to go and spend time. The 15 Best Islands in the Continental U.S. Temperatures remain . For example, getting around places like Barbados, Aruba, Grand Cayman and Turks and Caicos is the norm and youre unlikely to encounter safety issues. You'll earn 15 elite night credits each calendar year, and receive automatic Gold elite status. Waianuenue Falls, often called Rainbow Falls, is a five-minute drive from downtown Hilo in Wailuku River State Park. The first thing to keep in mind is . The Chocolate Factory tour is open for business during Covid. It is known for its endless adventure options, beaches ranging from mild to rough waters, hiking in rain forests, black-sand deserts, Volcanoes National Park with two active volcanoesand great places to stay. But borders are reopening October 15, allowing visitors to present a negative COVID-19 test result within 72 hours of arrival to avoid a mandatory 14-day quarantine. Entry stipulations in the Caribbean vary by island nation. Alaska Airlines offers a once-a-year companion certificate to anyone who holds the Alaska Airlines Visa credit card. The Spirit of Aloha and Polynesian influences remain strong and are a major reason why people continue to want to visit the Hawaiian Islands. We turned in ourState of Hawaii Traveler Health Forms and were cleared. When you rent your kayak, expert guides will let you know whether conditions are favorable for kayaking that day. The next couple of weeks will be crucial to see how Hawaii emergesit would be best to have a standard entry policy for all islands, which is key for people to feel confident. In the Caribbean, unless theres ferry service from one island to another as is the case between St. Thomas and St. John it can be expensive and inconvenient to fly between them. Hawaiibetter known as the Big Islandis the largest of the island chain, with more than 10 diverse climate zones. It does share the beach with Disneys Aulani [opening November 1], which can be a good or bad thing, depending on the traveler. Youre not there for nightlife, but for the beaches, exploration, and privacy., As youre choosing where to go, know the weather differences between the north and south side. Some of Hawaii Islands most magnificent and reachable waterfalls can be found along the northeastern coast of the island, along the Hilo and Hamakua Coast. The catamaran offered open-air seating, and I was required to answer health questions before boarding. Mine cost $125, and the closest facility was at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). In both cases, storm season starts in early June and ends at the end of November. If youre looking for a getaway to a gorgeous tropical locale, you cant go wrong with either Hawaii or the Caribbean. Another great open-air option at Hotel Wailea is the new Birdcage Bar,where you can take in incredible 180-degree views of the Pacific Ocean while enjoying izakaya-style small plates and Japanese whiskey. If you live on the East Coast, the Caribbean is much closer than Hawaii. You'll find a variety of projects like tree planting, self-directed beach cleanups, ocean reef preservation, and more. Hawaii's travel restrictions are evolving rapidly. Humble Market Kitchin is a chef Roy Yamaguchi restaurant. To ease my anxiety, I over prepared by washing our face masks, packing wipes and hand sanitizerand researching the new travel rules. If you want to visit more than one island on your tropical vacation, its generally easier to do that in Hawaii. If everything is not in order, prepare for a 10-day quarantine or to be sent back on the next flight. King has some well-earned opinions on where to stay in Maui. 6x Marriott Bonvoy Points on each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy program. Rush Processing; the relatively quicker and costlier option. CNN . Your best bet for a seven-night voyage around the Hawaiian Islands is Norwegian Cruise Lines Pride of America or Uncruise Adventures Safari Explorer. Offers may be subject to change without notice. Tours start at $118 for adults with discounted rates for seniors and children. After closing during the pandemic, it's reopened to guests as of May 2021. Visiting these free falling 442ft waterfalls is not the most exciting part of the hike. I was impressed to see hand sanitizer stations throughout the airport terminal. Americans can currently visit Hawaii, and fully-vaccinated travelers no longer need to get pre-tested or quarantine upon arrival. Although we were given a hand wipe by a flight attendant as we boarded, it was tiny and flimsy. Hawaii was the holy grail of vacation destinations for most U.S. residents even before it became a state in 1959. And guess what? Many of these plants and creatures have made the Maui Ocean Center their home, and a visit to this aquarium is a must-do on any new travelers list. Youll need your passport and may have to exchange currency, though many island vendors will accept U.S. dollars, and some islands do officially use the U.S. dollar. Both will reopen October 15. This year's World's Best Awards survey was open for voting January 11 through May 10, 2021, as destinations around the world were lifting COVID-19 restrictions. I brought my own canister of Lysol wipes to disinfect our seats, tray tables and arm rests. Sitting at a picnic table outside and drinking ros, I had my first bite of the white, flaky fish lathered in garlic butter, which explained the long line of diners. And as hotels reopen in the next few months, weve rounded up some of the places to stay and things to do, chosen by travel experts who know the islands well. You could use a Marriott up to 35,000-point certificate from the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card, for example, in both destinations. Snorkeling on Molokini [an uninhabited island close to Maui] is also a highlight, she says. 4x points for purchases made at restaurants worldwide, at U.S. gas stations, on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers and on U.S. purchases for shipping. It is also one of the most popular spots for a photoshoot. When COVID-19 struck the United States in late winter 2020 relaxing on a warm beach with a subtle island . Papaklea Beach or Green sand beach, Big Island, Hawaii. This tour is popular and sells out quickly. Molokai is most definitely a destination off the beaten path. There are few places to stay, with just three hotels. Get your heart pumping and visit some of the island chains most famous beaches by bike. This tour is an excellent activity for couples who are seeking a romantic experience to top off their Hawaiian vacation. Ever since Hawaii mandated a 14-day quarantine for all arrivals on March 26, it has been stop and go for reopening its borders. You can drive in your own car, stopping at waterfalls and hiking areas, and for Hawaiian shaved ice. Sweet tooth holders rejoice! Related: Best way to fly with kids to Hawaii. Many five-star hotel clients also go to the Grand Hyatt Kauai on the south side of the island, says King. The Four Seasons is evaluating its reopening date, with a decision coming soon.). Read on to find out why readers voted for the Island of Hawaii, as well as the other top Hawaiian islands. Copyright 2022 Travel + Leisure Co. All Rights Reserved. (Shutterstock via CNN) By Cnn Com Wire Service |. From Houston, Honolulu is about eight hours away by air, while a flight to Jamaica lasts about half as long, assuming youre booking nonstop flights. USD $35.99 - 24 hours. It was a trip we were supposed to take Easter weekend and had been eagerly waiting to reschedule. King calls Oahu his least favorite simply because of the crowds, in pre-COVID times: Honolulus international airport has always welcomed many direct flights from mainland USA and Asia, and travelers tend to spend at least some time in Oahu. Follow The Points Guy on Facebook and Twitter, and subscribe to text message alerts from our deals feed, @tpg_alerts. As soon as we were free to island-hop without a 14-day quarantine, my family boarded a flight from Honolulu to Kona. If youve got your heart set on a tropical cruise, your options are much more plentiful and therefore more affordable in the Caribbean. Pure Kauai has been a high-end villa specialist on the island for almost 20 years. The water temperature in most places averages about 70 degrees Fahrenheit and the winds typically blow kayakers closer to shore rather than out to sea. If you are lucky, you may have the chance to experience some mild seismic activity, hearing the boom of gas emissions, or even seeing a pillar of ash escaping into the air. Hawaii is home to 137 islands, eight of which are inhabited. Hawaii still holds that mystique. Here are some resources for using points and free-night certificates in both destinations: If you are considering traveling to the Caribbean or Hawaii with a family, you may have unique questions about the destinations and their level of kid-friendliness. 5. The Caribbean has even more influences, from the areas original inhabitants to those brought from Africa against their will in the slave trade. With nearly endless reservation options to fly or stay, book your next getaway near or far at Travel + Leisure GO. The tour includes the USS Arizona tour, Battleship Row, Punchbowl National Cemetery, Downtown Honolulu and Aliiolani Hale, made popular from the TV show Hawaii Five-O. While readers have stayed enthusiastically true to the region for decades, this year their sights have wandered: for the first time in nine years, Maui has been displaced from the No. I was relieved to see that the airport was not busy, which allowed us to check bags, proceed through thermal screening and complete the new travel form process at our own pace. The tour lasts two hours and is tailored for bikers of every athletic level. Generally speaking, areas that have been hosting tourists for decades or even generations may have a higher service level of service delivery than the island time you may experience in other regions newer to the industry. Remember that the reasons people went to Honolulu are different now, with fairly severe restrictions. The two flagship properties are Four Seasons: the 213-room Four Seasons Resort Lanai, which overlooks the protected marine preserve of Hulopoe Bay, and Sensei Lanai, a Four Seasons Resort, a property focused primarily on wellness programs and activities, for ages 16+. It also provides visitors with an in-depth look at the people who currently inhabit the islands and a glimpse into the other world of mystical creatures who watch over Hawaii. Hale Ae Kai is inspired by Balinese design, surrounded by gardens and ponds, and centered around a gorgeous pool, perched on a hilltop overlooking the ocean. To avoid airport delays and stress, print and fillout theState of Hawaii Traveler Health Format home 24 hours prior to your flight. Super Wingsepisodes on his iPad kept him still and entertained the whole time. Island of Hawaii - Indoor social gatherings of more than 25 . On the island of Oahu, the Safe Access O'ahu program, which required proof of vaccination or a negative test to enter businesses such as restaurants, bars and gyms, ended March 5. After the guided tour, guests are free to explore on their own. Kids love this tour as well. The Caribbean has kid-focused resorts such as the Nickelodeon Resort in Punta Cana and family-friendly, all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica, the Dominican Republic and beyond. The Best Hawaiian Islands to Visit for Different Kinds of Travelers Will it be lava flows or luxury resorts? This post contains references to products from one or more of our advertisers. Again, a truly cost-effective way to secure round-trip flights to Alaskas Hawaiian gateways, including Honolulu (HNL), Maui (OGG), Kona (KOA) and Lihue (LIH). Yamaguchi creates "Hawaii inspired Euro-Asian cuisine," as an homage to his family's roots. Travel to Hawaii during Covid-19: What you need to know before you go Hawaii visitors must provide evidence of a negative Covid-19 test. Theres a network of interisland flights that are affordable on cash or points. With beautiful ocean views, the restaurant exuded a safe, comfortable atmosphere. When it comes to the feel of the islands and the distinct culture youll find on each, there are some significant differences that are perhaps more important than the geographical distances. The waiter suggested the Australian rack of lamb, and after just one bite, I understood why the tender meat fell right off the bone. Most of the Caribbean, with the exception of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, are foreign destinations. Admission to the park area is $5 and hikers can enjoy a self-guided tour. Select your seats. Take a trip back into time as you explore some of the most iconic sites from World War II, and explore Honolulus storied past on a guided tour. Renting a kayak is one of the best ways to explore the islands by water. Finally, I received the green light and walked through the doors where a group of Hawaiian dancers welcomed me with a performance. While most beaches are great for this fun activity, there are some that come highly recommended. Coffee farm visit. CNN . Watch the deep orange sun as it sinks down beneath the horizon, the last traces of light dancing on the waters of the Pacific. If youve got hotel points from the major players like Hilton, Hyatt, Marriott and IHG, youll be able to spend them in either Hawaii or the Caribbean. 3, Maui is beloved for its something-for-everyone attractions, from rain forests to national parks and 30 miles of beaches, as well as its five-star lodgings and what one reader deemed "amazing food.