Best holidays in Hawaii for 2024

The tropical gem of America’s west coast, Hawaii offers holidaymakers a chance to experience the laid-back lifestyle, diverse landscapes and dynamic environment of isolated islands. Dubbed the ‘Aloha State’, its active volcanoes, sapphire seas and towering cliffs allow for a whole host of bucket-list adventures.

Worlds away from a beach holiday in Florida’s Miami or Fort Lauderdale on the mainland, the US’s 50th state invites visitors to don a Hawaiian shirt and head to a luau. The traditional Hawaiian parties with music, lei flower garlands and lessons in hula dancing are a must-try, whether travellers stay in a five-star hotel or a seafront hostel.

The archipelago of six main paradise islands in the Pacific Ocean has ancient, rugged landscapes and black and white sandy swathes. Each presents its own version of a Hawaiian holiday, from expeditions to waterfalls to relaxing beach hotspots.

Choose one to explore in-depth, or island hop around our top holiday picks for the full Hawaii experience.

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Kauai

Kauai, the oldest of Hawaii’s islands, has an undeniable allure. Nicknamed the “Garden Island” thanks to the thriving jungle vegetation that blankets its surface, it’s no surprise Kauai is one of the wettest places on earth. The landscape is home to rainforests packed with rapid rivers and cascading waterfalls to rappel down or take to the sky to see the sights of Waimea Canyon on a helicopter tour.

Where to stay

The serenity of Kauai Island is best enjoyed during secluded stays on its tropical coastline. Waimea Plantation Cottages feature plantation-period furniture, tropical artwork and floral accents. The homes were built in the late 1880s but are now fully equipped with self-catering kitchens and a breezy lanai patio.