Tag Archives: Big Island Hawaii

Big Island Rainbow Falls
Hawaii, Hawaii-Big Island, Plan, Trip Ideas

Hawaiian Waterfalls, Rainbow Falls, Hawaii

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Near the town of Hilo, on the big island’s eastern shore, the Wailuku River takes an 80-foot plunge into a frothy pool shrouded in greenery. In morning light, mist rising from this pool refracts sunlight into shimmering spectrums of the rainbow. The Hawaiian people dubbed this light show, Waianuenue, which translates to Rainbow Falls.

This is not only one of Hawaii’s most popular waterfalls, it is also one of the easiest to reach. There’s no hiking or climbing involved, as Rainbow Falls is located just minutes from downtown Hilo within Wailuku River State Park, with a road leading right up to the overlook. After taking in the sights, you can continue a mile up the road to another landmark Peepee Falls, where a series of terraced pools known as the Boiling Pots bubble like a caldron over the fire. From resorts on the Kona area, it’s a two-hour drive to Hilo and the falls, which makes it an ideal day trip.

Maui Turtle
Hawaii, Hawaii-Big Island, Kauai, Maui, Oahu, Plan, Trip Ideas

Hawaii’s Best Turtle Snorkel Sites

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The waters of Hawaii are home to colorful coral reefs and several thousand species of tropical fish. But for many snorkelers, the highlight of a snorkeling adventure is an encounter with a sea turtle. These hard-shelled amphibians are most abundant in summer months, but can be seen in coastal waters year-round. If you find yourself sharing a reef with a sea turtle, just remember to be respectful and give the animal some space. It’s OK to look, but not to touch, and you’ll stand a better chance of creating a memorable encounter if you let the turtle come to you, rather than chasing after it. You might see a turtle most anywhere you stick your head below the waves in Hawaiian waters, but some sites are more popular than others, and also easier to reach. Here are some of the islands’ best bets for turtle encounters.

Hawaii Green Sea Turtles

A pair of green sea turtles occupies a beach in Kauai. When seen ashore during daylight hours, these animals are not nesting and laying eggs, but simply basking in the sunlight. Photo: iStock

Oahu

At Hawaii’s most popular snorkel site, turtles have grown accustomed to the schools of snorkel-equipped land mammals that enter the waters of Hanauma Bay each day. That said, even the most tolerant of turtles will shy away when pursued with too much enthusiasm by too many swimmers. To avoid the crowds and have the best chance of a rewarding turtle encounter, come early, or swim a bit farther afield. You’ll usually find turtles in shallow water near the reefs.

Oahu Waimea Bay Hawaii

Snorkel sites along Oahu’s north coast, such as Waimea Bay, are best enjoyed in calmer summer months, as winter swells can create towering surf and dangerous rip currents. Photo: JS Callahan/iStock

As an alternative to Hanauma Bay, head to the North Shore. A quick stop at one of the dive shops in Haleiwa will give you the latest word on conditions at sites such as Three Tables, Shark’s Cove, Waimea Bay and Laniakea—aka Turtle Beach. Big surf can limit snorkeling in winter months, but these same sites are often calm during summer, which is also when turtles are most abundant.

Maui

Maui has numerous bays and miles of beaches where snorkelers can swim with turtles, whether entering the water from shore, or by boat. From the Lahaina area, Honolua Bay is a favorite stop for snorkel charters, where in addition to the ubiquitous turtles, there’s a good chance of sighting octopus, parrotfish and even the occasionally spinner dolphin. For land-based snorkelers, the prime site near Lahaina is the headland known as Black Rock, which is located on the north end of Kaanapali Beach. Another site in the area worth checking out is the Mala Wharf, where turtles glide through the remains of a ship’s pier that was destroyed by Hurricane Iniki in 1992.

Maui Honolua Bay Hawaii

Maui’s Honolua Bay offers plenty of sea turtles plus the chance to encounter spinner dolphin. The bay can be reached by land, but most snorkelers arrive aboard charter boats. Photo: Brad Scott/iStock

There are a number of beaches along the southwestern coast of Maui where turtles are plentiful, and the most famous is the site known as Turtle Town. Here, turtles congregate around a collection of underwater lava formations, which also attract swarms of tropical fish. A number of boat operators provide tours to Turtle Town, and you can also get there from shore, as the site is just a short swim from Maluaka Beach. Another boat-based alternative is a trip to Molokini, and a visit to Turtle Arches.

Kauai

On Kauai, the deciding factor on where to snorkel is often the surf conditions. When seas are calmer along the north shore, which is typically in summer, sites such as Kee and Makua Beach offer some of the finest reefs in Hawaii, especially at the area known as Tunnels. A less known option that’s a bit off the beaten path, but often packed with turtles, is a small cove next to the tide pool known as Queen’s Bath. Getting there requires a scramble down a rocky shore, and the site isn’t safe when the surf is up, and crashing against the walls of the cove.

Kauai Kee Beach Hawaii

Kee Beach is one of the most popular places on Kauai to snorkel with sea turtles. Summer months are best, as this is the time when surf is smallest and turtles are most abundant. Photo: iStock

When the north shore isn’t an option due to larger winter swells, Kauai’s southern coast is the place to be. Poipu Beach is a perennial favorite, and offers easy entry and calm conditions, plus a reasonable chance of seeing turtles and sometimes even Hawaiian monk seals. A bit to the west, Lawia Beach has a protected inner reef that’s safe to snorkel even when waves are breaking over the outside reef.

Hawaii

The western shores of the Big Island offer miles of calm, clear water for snorkelers, but only a limited number of access points. Closest to the resorts on the Kona coast is Kahaluu Beach Park. This shallow, sheltered bay is home to one of the highest concentrations of fish on Hawaii, along with plenty of turtles. Ten miles farther to the south, Kealakekua Bay is a site best reached by boat, as shore entry will require a long hike over rugged terrain. A number of charter operators run trips to this popular site, and the reefs hold an abundance of both turtles and fish.

Puuhonua O Honaunau Park Hawaii

On the calmer western coast of the island of Hawaii, Puuhonua O Honaunau National Park overlooks one of the island’s best snorkel sites, which is known locally as “Two Steps.” Photo: iStock

Another of the island’s best turtle watching venues is easily accessed from shore. Snorkelers can enter the waters of Honaunau Bay at a site called “Two Steps,” which is just outside of the Puuhonua O Honaunau National Park. Roadside parking can be at premium here, but for a modest fee, you can leave your car in the National Park’s lot, use the restrooms and make the short walk next door to the entry point.

Hawaii Plate Lunch
Eat, Hawaii, Hawaii-Big Island, Kauai, Lanai, Maui, Molokai, Oahu, Trip Ideas

Hawaii’s Local Favorites

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If your idea of Hawaii cuisine is tropical fruits and luau food, you need to expand your culinary horizons. The islands have long been a cultural mixing pot, with culinary influences from around the world blending to create a slew of unique-to-the-islands dishes and drinks you can’t find anywhere else. If you are ready to discover the diverse tastes of Hawaii, here are some of our favorite starting points.

Plate Lunch

The most iconic meal in Hawaii is called the plate lunch, an un- apologetically starch-heavy combination that dates back to the plantation period. The meal consists of two scoops of white rice, another of mayonnaise-based macaroni salad and some kind of entrée, which can range from teriyaki beef to pork adobo. The best place to sample one of these simple meals is at Rainbow Drive-In (3308 Kanaina Ave., 808-737-0177, www.rainbowdrivein.com) in Kapahulu, less than a mile outside of Waikiki. The landmark restaurant first opened in 1961 and is one of the few remaining drive-ins from this era. It’s been a favorite of residents for generations, though a recent stint on Food Network’s ‘Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives’ with Guy Fieri (who eats the fried chicken here whenever he’s in town) has put the drive-in in the guidebooks. And because of its proximity to the beaches in Waikiki, it’s a popular stop for surfers and beach-goers, who often arrive in beachwear for their fix of burgers, fries and the drive-in’s famous Slush Float. While it serves a variety of plate lunches—from hearty chili to chicken cutlets smothered in brown gravy—the most popular is the mix plate, featuring beef or pork teriyaki, a breaded chicken cutlet and mahimahi. There’s lots of parking at the drive- in and next door, but expect a crowd at lunchtime with lines spilling into the parking lot.

Rainbow Drive Inn Hawaii Local Food Plate Lunch

Oahu’s Rainbow Drive-In serves up traditional plate lunches. These date back to the plantation days, when workers sought a simple yet filling mid-day meal to fuel their labors. Photo: Catherine Toth

Spam Musubi

A popular snack found in most convenience stores in Hawaii is the Spam musubi —a block of white rice topped with a slice of grilled Spam, wrapped together with dried seaweed. Sometimes the musubi comes paired with egg, other times the Spam is flavored with teriyaki sauce. Hawaii has a long history of affection for the pink canned meat. Residents eat nearly 7 million cans of Spam a year, according to Minnesota-based Hormel Foods. That’s more than any other state in the nation. One eatery has perfected the snack. Tanioka’s Seafoods & Catering (94-903 Farrington Highway, 808-671-3779, www.taniokas.com) in Waipahu in Central Oahu prepares a Spam musubi that has quickly become one of the most popular items on the menu. The Spam is seasoned with a sweet teriyaki sauce that ramps this musubi to another level. These grab-and-go treats are located right at the cash register at Tanioka’s. But you have to go through a line to get there, passing display cases of poke, fried chicken, shortbread cookies and other local favorites. There isn’t anywhere to eat in or outside, so you’ll have to drive somewhere to enjoy your treat—we recommend visiting the nearby Hawaii’s Plantation Village (95-695 Waipahu St., 808-677-0110, www.hawaiiplantationvillage.org) in Waipahu, where you can walk around a restored plantation village that tells the story about Hawaii’s multiethnic history.

Spam

Spam musubi is a popular grab-and-go snack found all across Hawaii. Slices of flavored Spam provide the signature ingredient, which is paired with rice and wrapped in seaweed. Photo: Catherine Toth

Poke

Of the favorite types of pupu, or appetizer, in the Islands is poke (pronounced poh-kay). This consists of cubed ahi (yellow fin tuna) marinated in sea salt with shoyu (soy sauce), inamona (roasted crusted kukui nut), sesame oil, seaweed and chopped chili pepper. And it’s a fixture everywhere, from high-end restaurants to grocery stores. (Even Costco sells poke.) There are many variations of this dish, ranging from raw salmon to cured octopus. Try any of the ones served at Poke Stop (95-1840 Meheula Parkway, 808-626- 3400, www.poke-stop.com) in Mililani in Central Oahu. Here, you can even get a poke bowl with seared ahi served over kim chee- flavored fried rice. It’s a small shop located behind a McDonald’s, with some seating inside. While poke is its specialty, you’ll likely smell other dishes like garlic shrimp or grilled rib eye steak cooking up in the kitchen. Don’t be surprised to see owner Elmer Guzman prepping in the kitchen or his young daughters helping out in the dining area.

Hawaiian Poke

From high-end restaurants to supermarkets, you can find poke on every menu. The dish is typically marinated seafood topped with seaweed, chili peppers and even fish roe. Photo: Catherine Toth

Saimin

This is a noodle soup dish that came out of Hawaii’s plantation era. Drawing on the influences of Japanese ramen, Chinese mein and Filipino pancit, it is a curly egg noodles in a hot broth. One of the best bowls is on Kauai at Hamura’s Saimin Stand (2956 Kress St., Lihue, 808-245-3271), which uses locally made noodles. This old-fashioned saimin shop has been around for about 70 years and still popular as ever. Its long, S-shaped community table is almost always packed with diners, sitting on wooden stools and huddled over their bowls of steaming hot saimin. You can watch the longtime workers prepare the broth and noodles right in front of you in the open kitchen. The most popular is Hamura’s special saimin topped with luncheon meat, roast pork and veggies.

Saimin

Saimin is an Asian-influenced noodle soup turned Hawaiian. It consists of soft egg noodles immersed in a hot broth. Garnishes can include a variety of meats and vegetables. Photo: Catherine Toth

Mai Tai

A favorite libation in the islands, the Mai Tai is a combination of light and dark rums, lime, orgeat and curacao or triple sec. It was purportedly invented in 1944 at the Trader Vic’s restaurant in Oakland, California, but it soon became associated with Hawaii. The original concoction is vastly different from the imitations served in many restaurants and bars. The 1944 drink, which means “good” in Tahitian, used J. Wray & Nephew Jamaican rum, fresh lime juice, orgeat (an almond syrup with French origins), orange curacao and sugar syrup. There’s only one bottle left in the world of the Jamaican rum, so modern bartenders use various rums instead. The Royal Kona Resort hosts Don the Beachcomber’s Mai Tai Festival, which lures about two dozen mixologists who blend their best recipes in the hopes of winning $10,000. But you can find Mai Tais on just about any menu in Hawaii. The oceanfront House Without a Key (2199 Kalia Rd., 808-923-2311, www.halekulani.com/dining/house-without-a-key) at the posh Halekulani in Waikiki boasts a popular Mai Tai, perfect for sipping at sunset. Go in the evening and grab a seat outside, facing the Pacific Ocean, and listen to live Hawaiian music with hula dancers gracefully moving under a century-old kiawe tree. The refreshing drink is perfection in this atmosphere.

Mai Tai

Though thought to have originated in California, the Mai Tai has long been associated with Hawaii. With slight variations, the drink combines one or more rums, fruit juices and syrups. Photo: iStock

Loco Moco

You likely won’t find this dish—or a variation of it—anywhere but Hawaii. Another product of the plantation culture, the loco moco is just white rice topped with a hamburger patty (or two), an egg and brown gravy. It was first created in Hilo on the Big Island, where you can still get one of the best versions of this dish at Café 100 (969 Kilauea Ave., Hilo, 808-935-8683, www.cafe100.com). This old- time drive-in serves more than 30 different kinds of loco mocos, including one with fish and another topped with homemade chili. It started serving loco mocos in 1949 and now sells about 9,000 of them every month. The menu on display is dizzying, so take your time. Like Rainbow Drive-In, Café 100 has take-out windows but with some open-air seating where you can feast on your loco moco plate. This is a popular stop for Hilo residents seeking a quick bite to eat, though more visitors are finding it despite its location off the main highway. If you’re on Kilauea Avenue, you can’t miss it, with its name in huge red letters on a wooden facade.

Loco Moco

Loco moco is one of several distinctly Hawaiian creations that pairs a serving of rice with one or more protein toppers. This example comes from Cafe 100 in the town of Hilo. Photo: Catherine Toth

Malasadas

This popular Portuguese dessert is simple: it’s just fried sweet dough doused in white sugar. But few have perfected the art of making these round, sugary donuts. While Leonard’s Bakery in Kapahulu on Oahu is the most well known bakery to specialize in these fried treats, Agnes’ Portuguese Bake Shop (46 Hoolai St., 808-262-5367, www.agnesbakeshop.com) in Kailua on Oahu’s windward side whips up the most authentic version—complete with the traditional hole in the middle. The malasadas here are made to order and coated generously in white sugar. It’s located in a parking lot shared with a couple of other shops. There are display cases features other baked good such as bear claws, apple fritters, jelly donuts and scones. Grab a cup of freshly brewed local coffee and take a seat while you wait. Since the malasadas are made to order, it might take a few minutes.

Malasada

A close cousin to the donut, the Malasada originated in Portugal. These savory chunks of sweet fried dough are coated in sugar, and may or may not have central holes. Photo: Catherine Toth

Shave ice

Hawaii’s version of this icy treat is nothing like the chunky snow cones served on the mainland. Shave ice—also called ice shave on the Big Island—has a finer consistency, and more completely absorbs the sweet syrup toppings, which come in flavors ranging from strawberry to piña colada. Most shave ice stands like Matsumoto Shave Ice on Oahu’s North Shore and Ululani’s Shave Ice on Maui top these desserts with homemade mochi (sweet glutinous rice), red azuki beans and sweetened condensed milk. But if you’re looking for something truly unique, visit Shimazu Store (330 N. School St., 808-371-8899) in Honolulu. This small hole-in-the-wall boasts more than 50 different flavors including lychee, red velvet crème, durian and creme brulee. This shave ice shop is in a former neighborhood grocery store. It’s tiny inside, and you’ll likely have to eat on the small bench just outside the door. The workers will make your shave ice to order right before your eyes, including shaving the ice.

Hawaiian Shaved Ice

Hawaiian shave ice is a favorite treat. Unlike a snow cone, which uses crushed ice, shaving produces smaller ice slivers that more readily absorb flavoring syrups and additional toppings. Photo: iStock

 

Hawaii-Big-Island-
Hawaii, Hawaii-Big Island, Play, Trip Ideas

10 Things to Do on The Big Island of Hawaii

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The island of Hawaii, aka The Big Island, offers diversity. It has the state’s only active volcanoes, the highest peaks and the largest open spaces. There are lush green valleys and waterfalls, but also lunar-like landscapes of black volcanic rock. Luxury resorts fronted by championship golf courses are tucked away on the calm western shore, cattle ranches cover the north shore and the south and east offer abundant backdrops for outdoor pursuits. Here are just some of our favorite things to do when on Hawaii.

1  Drive Up Top

Take a drive to the top of Mauna Kea, Hawaii’s highest volcano. At nearly 14,000 feet, the thin air at the top may take your breath away, while the views most certainly will. The summit is home to the world’s largest collection of optical telescopes, placed there to take advantage of the clear night skies. For those who can’t take the high altitudes, a good option is a stop at the Visitor’s Information Station, which sits at a still lofty but more breathable elevation of 9,000 feet. Those who don’t want to make the drive themselves can opt for a tour that includes sunset views and stargazing.

2  Ride an Outrigger

Hawaii-Big-Island-Outriggers-On-Beach, Things to Do on The Big Island of Hawaii

Photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority

The Hawaiian people once traveled from island to island using oceangoing outrigger canoes. You can get a taste of this seafaring tradition aboard a modern-day rendition of this traditional craft. From the harbor at Kailua- Kona, you can paddle along the island’s calm western coast and explore Kailua Bay. Along the way, make sure to keep an eye out for the spinner dolphin that often make an appearance boat side, and for whales breaching out in blue water. Canoes typical hold 4 to 6 paddlers and an experienced guide, who will set the pace according the guests’ abilities.

3  Bike a Volcano

Kilauea is one of the world’s most active volcanoes, and the island’s most popular attractions. To get beyond the usual visitor center and overlook tours, sign up for a bike tour of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This half-day, 15- mile ride follows an easy and often downhill course, and there’s a support van for those who want to take a break from pedaling. The guided tour begins at the Summit Caldera and passes through a wide range of environments from rainforests to stark lava flows, craters and steaming vents.

4  Go Below

Scuba divers consider Kona’s clear waters to be the best place in the islands to dive. You can take in many of the same undersea landscapes without getting your hair wet. In Kona, Atlantis Submarines operates Hawaii’s only truly submersible passenger vessel, reaching depths as great as 100 feet. The sub is fitted with a series of large view ports that provide every occupant with an unobstructed view of coral-encrusted slopes. The waters are home to hundreds of species of fish, some of which are found nowhere else in the world.

5  Meet a Manta

Hawaii-Manta-Ray-

Photo: iStock

Giant manta rays are frequent visitors to the waters of Hawaii. Along the island’s west coast, several resorts use underwater spotlights to attract these plankton-feeders to feast on the tiny creatures attracted by the light. Guests of these resorts can take an after-dark swim with these impressive but harmless giants. These nocturnal gatherings are also accessible by boat, with trips departing from Kona at dusk. The mantas, which can range up to 20 feet in length, will often come within mere feet of snorkelers or divers, but veer off before making actual contact. Close encounters happen year round.

6  Go Nuts

Though not native to Hawaii, macadamia nuts thrive in the rich volcanic soil. There are a number of groves and processing facilities on the island that open their doors to tours and offer bargains on factory-direct purchases. One of the favorites is located in the coastal settlement of Kawaihae, a 45-minute drive north of Kona. Here, in addition to a range of interpretive exhibits, you can sample delicacies such as coconut glazed nuts and macadamia nut ice cream.

7  Land a Trophy

The Kona coast is world renown among big game fishermen, who come in pursuit of blue and black marlin that can reach weights of well over 1,000 pounds. But you don’t have to be after a world record to enjoy the angling action. Charter fishing boats ply the calm waters on the island’s leeward western shore, which means there’s no long trips out to blue water, and no big waves to contend with. Memorable catches are often made within a mile or so of land, and include not only trophy fish, but also fine table fare such as mahimahi and yellowfin tuna.

8  Indulge your Tastes

Hawaii-Big-Island-Holuakoa-Cafe

Photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority

Spend an afternoon in the shops and galleries of Holualoa, a village of artists and artisans located in the heart of the island’s upland coffee growing region. You’ll find a wide range of locally made paintings, ceramics and woodworking. After perusing the artwork and handicrafts you can treat your taste buds to some culinary artistry as well by visiting one of the area’s numerous coffee farms, where tours and samplings provide opportunities to indulge in a fresh-brewed cup of the local beans. For the total experience, plan on visiting during November’s annual Holualoa Village Coffee & Art Stroll.

9  Take an Aerial Trek

They don’t call it mere zip lining, through you will glide along nine different aerial guy wires as part of an elevated tour of the Kohala woodlands. The trekking part of this canopy tour involves crossing a series of treetop suspension bridges that provide an opportunity to pause and set your own pace and observe the smaller details of the forest canopy. There’s also a vertical descent line at the end to add one more element of excitement, though the entire adventure is said to be suitable for all ages.

10  Paddle the Ditch

In the early years of the 20th century, a series of ditches, flumes and tunnels were excavated to bring water from the mountains to the sugar plantations of Hawaii’s Kohala coast. Though no longer used for irrigation, kayakers now float portions of this 18-mile waterway. The adventure begins with an off- road excursion into the highland rainforest, where boats are launched into the slow-flowing channel. The route passes through forest and field, and through tunnels of up to a quarter mile in length.

Hawaii, Maui, Haleakala Horseback Riding
Hawaii, Hawaii-Big Island, Kauai, Maui, Oahu, Play, Trip Ideas

Hawaii Horseback Adventures

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Hawaii and horses. The image just seems right. And, in fact you can saddle with dozens of outfitters and riding stables scattered across all six major islands. There are beginner-friendly walks on groomed trails, fast-paced rides for those with some equine experience and challenging excursions into the backcountry to discover sights few tourists ever see. From this list of possibilities, we’ve come up with four rides that offer something a bit out of the ordinary.

Into the Volcano

The island of Maui offers some of the most diverse horseback excursions in the state—everything from beach rides to explorations of wooded trails and canters on expansive grasslands lying thousands of feet above the ocean. The Valley Isle’s most unusual riding adventure begins at the summit of Mount Haleakala, and descends into this dormant volcano’s central crater. The route follows the Sliding Sands Trail to the crater floor, some 2,500 feet below the rim. This route requires about four hours to complete, including a lunch stop in the crater. The tour outfitters recommend that riders have at least some riding experience, and should be comfortable with higher altitudes, as the trail ranges from 7,500 feet up to 10,000 feet above sea level. Needless to say, the views are unforgettable.

Maui, Haleakala Horseback Riding, Hawaii Horseback Adventures

Riders descend the Sliding Sands trail in Haleakala National Park. Hikers and riders can follow a network of trails from the summit rim deep into the dormant volcano’s inner crater. Photo: iStock

Saddles and Swimsuits

The island of Kauai is known for it’s wild spaces, lush landscapes and cascading falls–especially on the north shore. You can take in all these elements on a two-hour ride through the Kalihiwai Valley that includes a chance to plunge into a mountain stream. The ride, which is suitable for all ages, begins at the Silver Falls Ranch, a private 300-acre estate set in the heart of the valley. Tours pass through an 80-acre botanical reserve where more than 150 species of palm trees grow, then joins Pohakuhonu Creek on a trail lined with ferns, hibiscus blossoms and wild orchids. The destination is Sliver Falls, where the ranch’s namesake cascade feeds a refreshing pool of water. Riders can enjoy a refreshing dip while the guides prepare a picnic lunch.

Riding the Rim

The Big Island is home to several working cattle ranches, and visitors can saddle up to ride the ranges where Paniolo, aka Hawaiian cowboys, still work the herds. For a different take on trail riding that includes some breathtaking vistas, head to the east coast village of Kukuihaele, which overlooks the remote Waipio Valley. Flanked by tall ridges and facing the sea, this expansive cleft in the coastal mountain range is often referred to as the “Valley of the Kings,” as it was home to many of the island’s traditional chiefs. The 2.5 hour-ride takes you along the upper rim of the valley, and on to the top of Hiilawe Falls, which is one of the highest and most scenic cascades in the state. The views are unmatched, and if you want more, you can opt for a five-hour ride that continues upstream of the falls, following the fern-clad banks to the river and into a pristine rainforest to discover a series of hidden pools and smaller falls.

Hawaii Big Island, Waipio Valley Horseback Riding

A panoramic horseback perspective of Hawaii’s Waipio Valley from the upper rim. This verdant cleft in the mountains northeastern shore of the Big Island was once home to Hawaii’s kings. Photo: Sharron Miller/iStock

Moonlight on the Trail

The island of Oahu certainly has its share of exciting nightlife. But if your idea of a light show isn’t spinning-mirrored balls, check your calendar for the next full moon, and reserve a spot on Hawaii’s only moonlight horse ride. The adventure is staged from the Gunstock Ranch, which is located on the island’s less-settled north shore, far from city lights. The ranch overlooks Kalanai Point and the Malaekahana State Recreation Area, with the Koolau Mountains rising just behind. These 90-minute rides are scheduled to begin at dusk to take in twilight views of the mountains and ocean as you climb to a scenic overlook just in time to watch the moon rise over the Pacific. The ride back takes place under the light of the full moon. This ride is offered just two to three times a month, so it’s best to reserve well ahead.

Hawaii Snorkeling
Hawaii, Hawaii-Big Island, Play, Trip Ideas

Into the Blue: Favorite Snorkel Sites on the Island of Hawaii

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If you are on the island of Hawaii and want to don mask and fins for a bit of fish watching, your best bet is to head west. The island’s central-west coast sits in the wind shadow of two towering volcanoes–Mauna Lao and Mauna Kea, so there’s no river runoff to cloud the water and the shore is also sheltered from the prevailing swells that wash the eastern side. With much of the coast covered in lava rock, entry points can be a bit more demanding than on sandy beaches. But there are a number of popular and very scenic reefs that can be reached safely and easily from shore, or by tour boat. Here are four of our favorites.

Kahaluu Beach Park

Located just south of the town of Kailua-Kona, this waterfront park provides not only great snorkeling, but also convenient access. The parking area is close to an entry point where snorkelers can wade in from a sandy area rather than over sharp rocks, and there are lifeguards on duty. The park also provides showers, bathrooms and picnic pavilions. The cove is surrounded by rocky shallows, and there are usually large numbers of tropical species to be seen. Depths are generally less than 10 feet, which means there is more color to the reefs when sunlight penetrates and more chance of getting up close to the sea life.

Kahaluu Beach Park, Favorite Snorkel Sites on the Island of Hawaii

When seas are calm, snorkelers can discover snorkel-worthy sites along many Big Island beaches with rock outcroppings. Corals grow on these hard surfaces, attracting fish life. Photo: iStock

Honaunau Bay

Some of the best snorkeling in Hawaii can be found in the waters of Honaunau Bay, adjacent to Puuhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park. Snorkeling is not allowed in the park itself, but just to the north, there is an access point where two flat rock ledges provide safe entry into the clear waters of the bay. These rocks give the site its local nickname “two-steps,” and it is also referred to as the Place of Refuge. Whatever it’s called, this site is not to be missed, as its coral formations and rocks hold a wealth of tropical fish, sea turtles and the chance of a swim-by from spinner dolphin. The site is popular, but there is usually ample parking. Several tour operators also offer water access aboard smaller, raft-life vessels.

Hawaii Snorkeling

The reefs and coastal waters of Hawaii are home to more than a thousand species of fish. Some are found throughout the Pacific, but more than 300 are native only to these islands. Photo: iStock

Kealakekua Bay

The waters of the Kealakekua Bay Marine Reserve are rich in fish life and colorful corals, and there are extensive shallow areas suitable for snorkeling. But if you are planning to wade into this marine preserve from shore, you’d better pack some sturdy shoes and extra drinking water, because reaching the entry point requires a hike of 45 minutes or more across loose lava rocks. A better option is to come by boat. Several tour companies are licensed to lead kayak tours into the reserve, and more provide half-day and full-day snorkeling and water-sports cruises aboard power launches and sailing catamarans. To enjoy some personal water space, book with one of the smaller operators, lest you find yourself in the water with 50 other swimmers.

An overhead view of Kealakekua Bay.

An overhead view of Kealakekua Bay. Reaching this rocky shore by foot requires a difficult hike, but fortunately, a number of tour operators provide boat charters. Photo: iStock

Mauna Kea Bay

The beach at Mauna Kea Bay is often cited as one of Hawaii’s most scenic. It is certainly one of the most serene. Public access is regulated by the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, which allows just 25 non-guest cars in the parking lot each day. The reward for arriving early is a spot on this quiet beach and a chance to snorkel in its sparkling waters. When swells are not present, the gently sloping sand shallows are ideal for youngsters just getting their sea legs. More serious fish watchers can follow the rocky shoreline out to the point beyond the hotel, where corals grow among the lava rocks, and fish flit in the sunlight.

Mauna Kea

Mauna Kea is one of the most beautiful snorkeling beaches in Hawaii. Come early to secure one of the limited number of parking spaces that guarantee beach access. Photo: Stephan Hoerold/iStock

 

 

 

Oahu Coastline
Hawaii, Hawaii-Big Island, Kauai, Maui, Oahu, Plan, Trip Ideas

Hawaii’s Natural Wonders

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Hawaii is home to so many spectacular sights it’s nearly impossible to picture just one iconic landscape when imagining the state’s natural beauty. Sprawling beaches, towering coastal cliffs, tropical rainforests, volcanoes and red-hot lava flows are just a few of the picturesque scenes the islands provide—not to mention the bounty of bays and lagoons that make for stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

Hawaii Fairmont Orchid Spa
Hawaii, Hawaii-Big Island, Maui, Oahu, Stay, Trip Ideas

Best Hawaiian Resorts for Island-Style Spa Treatments

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A visit to a spa in Hawaii is somewhat different from a stateside pampering. In the islands the experience goes tropical with pineapple, coconut and lime fragrances and earthy with volcanic mud and lava rocks playing a role in your treatment. The islands’ big-name resorts go all out in creating not only fantastic treatments you won’t find back on the mainland, but the perfect surroundings that only a tropical Hawaiian island can provide. So if it’s time to detoxify, relax, get healthy or just spoil yourself, these resort spas are so worth a visit.

Fairmont Orchid, Kohala Coast, Big Island of Hawaii

Pampering in the Hawaiian Islands means connecting with nature and being outdoors where water, wind and the fragrance of the island create a relaxing environment for a spa treatment. At the Fairmont Orchid resort the spa is actually called, the Spa Without Walls, which makes perfect sense. Guest treatment rooms include outdoor huts near waterfalls and oceanfront cabanas where the soothing sounds of water mix with ocean breezes. In this setting, it’s only appropriate to indulge in a lomi lomi massage, one of the most traditional Hawaiian massages. It was used in ancient Hawaii by native healers. Therapists move their forearms and hands in long gliding, rhythmic movements and use medium pressure to relax muscles. They work gently, yet deeply into the tissue, and the continuous flowing strokes, combined with loving touch, ease muscle tension so internal energy can better flow.

Hawaii's Fairmont Orchid Spa

The Fairmont Orchid resort’s Spa Without Walls takes advantage of the Big Island of Hawaii’s waterfalls to create areas for reflection and relaxation. Photo: The Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii

The Kohala Coast is known for its high-end resorts, and the Fairmont Orchid is right up there with the top properties. Its grounds can rightly boast some of Hawaii’s most impressive tropical gardens and cascading waterfalls, plus a white sandy beach on Pauoa Bay. Rooms have lanais with views of the Pacific Ocean or the lush gardens, and the bamboo- style four-poster beds bring the tropical theme inside. Thatched umbrellas and a tiki bar make the alfresco Hale Kai restaurant an inviting spot for lunch or dinner. 

Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalow, Kohala Coast, Big Island of Hawaii

A trip to the spa at the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel is like a visit to a Hawaiian village. Thatched-roof huts for treatments and meditation are surrounded by jungle-like foliage and dramatic rocks. Natural lava saunas and a Watsu pool are part of the spa too. The names of the treatments alone are tantalizing: Papaya Pineapple Body Treatment, Kona Mocha Body Scrub, Seaweed Therapy and Lava Flow Body Wrap. If you want to detoxify from all the work-related stress you left behind or too many libations the night before, the Lava Flow Body Wrap is for you. Therapists apply volcanic mud and then wrap your body; the results are smoother skin and the remineralizing of your body. The Lava Watsu Experience is pure stress relief. In the comfort of a pool, where the water is the perfect temperature for your body, a therapist helps you to relax through flotation and rhythmical movements said to relieve pain and promote flexibility.

Mauna Lani Hotel Spa, Hawaii

Tropical foliage and thatched roofs create a Hawaiian village ambience for spa-goers at the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel on the Big Island of Hawaii. Photo: Mauna Lani Bay Hotel

Considered one of the Big Island’s most romantic resorts, you’ll be dazzled by its open-air lobby with cathedral ceilings. Koi ponds and illuminated sheets of water add to the decor. Guest rooms have a minimalist decor with graphic orchid artwork and great views of the Mauna Kea Mountain. If you want to splurge, the property’s bungalows at 2,700 square feet of living space are perfect for a long vacation. They have private pools, Jacuzzis and barbecue areas. If you need a reason to extend your stay, we’ll give you one: golf. With two courses that blend mountain and ocean and the Keiki Course for youngsters, one day of golf won’t be enough. 

Grand Wailea, Maui

This Waldorf Astoria resort has bragging rights to the largest spa in Hawaii. Its two-story Spa Grande covers 50,000 square feet and devotes one floor to dry treatments and the other floor to wet indulgences. In fact the spa is known for its Terme Wailea Hydrotherapy. Enjoyed prior to a treatment, the water therapy can include time spent in a Roman whirlpool tub followed by a quick dip in a cold plunge pool, or guests can opt to soak in the hot water of a Japanese furo bath. Another option is the cascading waterfall massage designed especially to knead the neck and shoulders with the pressure of water dropping from a height of 10 feet. The hydrotherapy also includes five Hawaiian sea salt baths and an invigorating loofah scrub. The spa organizes treatments by philosophies: water, fire, earth, air and harmony. Fire, for example, involves heat to warm the body, and the Pohaku massage, using hot lava stones, is said to be one of the most therapeutic.

Grand Wailea Maui, Hawaii Spa

The termé in the Spa Grande at Maui’s Grand Wailea resort lets guests choose their specialty bath: mud, seaweed, aromatherapy, papaya and mineral salt. Photo: Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort

The resort, set on 40 acres fronting the Wailea Beach on the southwest shore of Maui, is all about giving you plenty of space, whether it’s a 640-foot room or a huge pool with a swim-in grotto and 19-foot waterfall. There’s also the swim-up Grotto Bar. But guests’ favorite place, no doubt, is a table at the floating seafood restaurant, named after Hawaii’s official state fish, affectionately known as Humu Humu. Its cluster of thatched-roof Polynesian huts and the chance to pluck your own lobster from the nearby lagoon are reasons to go. 

Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay, Kona, Big Island of Hawaii

After you’ve learned how to make a lei, play the ukulele and dance the hula, you’ll find more Hawaiian-centric things to explore at the resort’s Hoola Spa. The word hoola means to heal, and treatments here range from pure bliss to therapeutic. The Hawaiian Sugar Polish Body Treatment for sensitive skin uses Hawaiian sugar crystals and botanicals to gently scrub the body followed by a Vichy rinse. The Hawaiian Lomi Lomi Massage is the islands’ version of a Swedish massage, using techniques handed down through generations. The long, gliding strokes and gentle rhythmic motions make this a popular choice. The Hoola Spa also offers a Deep Lomi Lomi Massage for guests who want a firmer, more intense experience. The newest offering at the spa is the Himalayan Salt Spa, a room where guests inhale very fine micro- particles of salt that are said to have anti-inflammatory properties that reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract and improve the immune system.

Sheraton Kona Resort and Spa, Hawaii

Guests enjoy the warmth of the sun and the coolness of ocean breezes during a massage at the Hoola Spa in the Sheraton Kona Resort on the Big Island of Hawaii. Photo: Sheraton Kona Resort

The Sheraton Kona Resort is perched on the edge of Hawaii’s iconic lava rocks, hugging Keauhou Bay. Although the rooms are stunning with warm wood tones and crisp white linens, you’ll no doubt want to spend your days in the pool area, where a 200-foot lava tube waterslide, hot tubs and a striking view of the water and crenulated coast teases the eye. A bonus is the resort’s special viewing area where guests can see the hauntingly beautiful manta rays, with wing spans up to 20 feet, glide by most evenings. 

Trump Hotel Waikiki, Oahu

At this Trump International hotel in Honolulu, the Spa at Trump pumps up its offerings to include treatments that use traditional Hawaiian botanicals. Think pineapple, lime, coconut and sugar. What could sound more appealing to the senses than the Hawaiian Pineapple Lime Exfoliation Massage? Pineapple has natural exfoliating enzymes and nutrients to renew and revitalize the skin. The exotic combination of pineapple, lime and cane sugar in the hands of a therapist are used to gently cleanse, refresh and rehydrate your skin, before the body massage. The final touch is the application of tropical oils to conclude your hour of bliss. Another Hawaiian-centric treatment is the Kalo Coconut Wrap. Therapists use coconut and the healing kukui nut oil to condition the skin. And while you are wrapped and relaxed, your feet and scalp are massaged, leaving you with a head-to-toe pampering.

Waikiki Trump Hotel Spa, Hawaii, Oahu

Among the signature treatments at the Spa at Trump in the Trump Hotel Waikiki is the gemstone massage, using gem-infused oils that contain diamonds, rubies, emeralds and sapphires. Photo: Trump International Waikiki

After a visit to the spa, relax at the hotel’s infinity pool, where a watery view of the Pacific Ocean will keep you feeling totally de-stressed. Accommodations at the Trump Hotel include studios with kitchenettes and suites with full kitchens that spoil guests with their Bosch, Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances. And for the nights you want to dine out, BLT Steak is the top on-property restaurant where a French flair and a contemporary décor give this steakhouse its upscale appeal.

The Kahala Hotel & Resort, Honolulu, Oahu

With a guest roster that includes presidents, royalty and celebrities, the Kahala Hotel & Resort is known for its high standards, and the spa is no different. The Kahala Spa’s treatment rooms are anything but tiny, and include a relaxation area with comfy rattan chairs, a glass-enclosed shower, a soaking tub and a changing area that provides privacy. Wood flooring and slat-style windows add warmth to the room, which opens onto an outdoor area. Each treatment begins with the ritual of Hoomaka, a cleansing and relaxing foot massage. For the ultimate experience, book the Lovely Hula Hands Massage, a four-handed dancing of hands using the lomi lomi massage techniques. Two therapists work in rhythm with each other to ease you into a state of total relaxation.

Kahala Resort Spa, Hawaii

Honolulu’s Kahala Hotel & Resort’s spa suites include private indoor and outdoor relaxation areas for lounging after a treatment. Photo: The Kahala Hotel & Resort

You can follow up your treatment with a leisurely stroll on the resort’s palm tree-fringed shore or by lolling in a hammock. Your room’s lanai is another great perch where you can relax while gazing at the Koolau Mountains. Rooms are airy with a palette of light natural tones and island touches, such as tropical leaf shapes etched into the carpeting, and the luxe bathrooms have deep soaking tubs. Located just minutes from shopping and nightlife, the resort’s complimentary shuttle will whisk you into Waikiki. 

 

Punaluu Black sand beach, big island, Hawaii
Hawaii, Hawaii-Big Island, Plan, Trip Ideas

The Big Island of Hawaii: 10 Reasons to Go

Earning its nickname for the orchid flowers that thrive in the dark volcanic soil, the island of Hawaii is also referred to as simply “the Big Island.” It’s a fitting title, as many things here happen on a bit grander scale: the distances, the mountains and the views. Few other places in the world can you swim in tropical waters in the morning, then stand atop a snow-capped peak two hours later. Or transition from lush rainforests to cool grasslands then move on to arid lunar-like coastal flats in the same afternoon. From the quiet luxury resorts of the Kohala Coast to the fiery energy of Kilauea, it is an island of contrasts and wide-open spaces.

1  Land of Fire

This is the youngest island in the Hawaiian chain, and it’s still growing. Volcanoes National Park is one of the only places in the world where you can come face-to-face with an active volcano and see the still-smoldering remains of a lava flow emerge and flow into the sea, creating clouds of steam as the molten rock cools to form new land.

2  Room to Roam

The Big Island isn’t just a slogan. At 3,000 square miles, it’s almost twice the size of all the other Hawaiian Islands combined. A “once around” driving tour will put more than 200 miles on the odometer, and it’s possible to visit 10 climate zones ranging from tropical to polar.

3  Snow in the Tropics

T-shirts emblazoned with “Ski Hawaii” aren’t a joke. Towering nearly 14,000 feet above sea level, Hawaii’s two major volcanic peaks—Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa—are sometimes covered in snow during the winter. Adventurous skiers and snowboarders ride to the summit of Mauna Kea on four-wheel-drive vehicles for a chance to glide on “pineapple powder.”

4  Open Range

Hawaii is cow country. The Parker Ranch is one of the oldest working cattle ranches in America, and at a quarter million acres, it’s half again the size of the entire island of Molokai. Hawaiian cowboys, known as paniolos, stage a rodeo each Labor Day, and the ranch is open for horseback tours year-round.

5  Home of the Iron Man

Each October, the town of Kailua-Kona hosts the world’s most famous endurance race: the Iron Man. The race was born in Oahu, but moved to the Big Island in 1981 to take advantage of the uncrowded roadways for bikers and runners, and Kona’s expansive sheltered bay for swimmers.

6  Golf Galore

In a state known for golf, the Big Island offers not only the most chances to play a round, but also many of the best opportunities. Some of the most stunning courses are those on the Kohala Coast that place green fairways against a backdrop of jet-black lava flows. A total of 23 courses on the island provide everything from affordable, democratic play to some of the most storied holes in the sport.

7  Big Fish

Trophy game fish swim close to the island’s western shore. The two largest blue marlin in the world were landed in Kona, as well as the most fish over 1,000 pounds. Prime fishing grounds are just a short run from Honokohau Harbor, and seas are usually calm, as the prevailing trade winds are blocked by the island’s towering volcanoes.

8  Black Sands

When lava rock is ground fine by wind and waves, the result is black sand, and the Big Island has some of the finest black sand beaches in the world. The easiest to reach is Punaluu Beach, which lies just to the east of the island’s southern tip. If you are driving a circle tour of the island, make sure to look for it between mile markers 55 and 56 on Highway 11.

9  Legendary Coffee

Kona coffee is prized for its rich flavor, derived from the fertile volcanic soils and cool mountain air that envelops the slopes where coffee plants thrive. Scattered throughout the Kona district are coffee farms, which offer tours and tastings. The small town of Holualoa, known for its art scene, is a good place to start a caffeine quest.

10  Totally Tubular

When lava spills from an erupting volcano, it sometimes flows in subterranean conduits called lava tubes, which eventually cool to create caves. At sites like Kaumana Cave near Hilo, visitors can walk more than a mile into one of these former lava highways, which are now refreshingly dark and cool.

Mauna Kea Golf Course, Kohala Coast, Hawaii
Bermuda, Cabo San Lucas, Caribbean, Dominican Republic, Hawaii, Hawaii-Big Island, Jamaica, Lanai, Mexico, Nevis, Play, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Rico, Trip Ideas

Tees by the Sea: 10 Spectacular Oceanfront Golf Courses

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If your idea of a great vacation includes not only sun, sand and blue water, but also sand traps and water hazards, you don’t have to choose one over the other. Seaside golf resorts give you the best of both: a relaxing tropical vacation with the chance to play some of the most fabled and scenic courses in the world. We’ve assembled a collection of first-class golf courses that not only sit beachside, but are also in prime vacation destinations. Some have fun, yet forgiving, fairways and accommodating greens, while others challenge with architecture that demands precision and incorporates natural hazards, from lava fields and mangrove swamps to precipitous, surf-washed cliffs. And as an added bonus, each of these courses is affiliated with a world-class beachfront resort, where spa time, poolside languor and fine dining can cap off a great round.

Port Royal Golf Course, Southampton, Bermuda

Port Royal Golf Course, Bermuda

Delivering dramatic oceanfront views and one of golf’s most famous holes, Port Royal is the current home of the PGA Grand Slam. As a public course, it is open to all. Photo: V Stephen Raynor

Bermuda has more golf courses per square mile than anywhere on earth. High on the island’s list of must-plays is the Port Royal Golf Course, home to one of the most memorable waterfront holes in golf: the 235-yard, par-3 16th hole, which perches on the edge of an oceanfront bluff, offering spectacularly distracting views of azure waters that lie in wait for the errant hook shot. Benefiting from multi-million dollar upgrades in recent years, this top-ranked public course has attracted its share of pros with events such as the annual PGA Grand Slam of Golf.

Where to Stay: Book an ocean-view room next door at the Pompano Beach Club and you will not only enjoy a world-class beach and memorable ocean views, but also 15-minute proximity to three additional courses: Riddell’s Bay Golf & Country Club, Newstead Belmont Hills Golf Resort and the ever-popular Turtle Hill Golf Club at the Fairmont Southampton, widely considered one of the sport’s more challenging and scenic par-3 courses. Pompano’s staff can arrange for transportation and tee times at many of the island’s courses, including space-available tee times at the renowned Mid Ocean Club on select days. Once the clubs are put away, guests enjoy amenities that includes water sports, tennis, spa services and one of the island’s top-ranked eateries—The Cedar Room. There are few better places to toast a successful day on the links than the Sunset Lounge, which, as the name promises, delivers amazing sunset views. 

Four Seasons, Nevis

Four Seasons Nevis Golf Course, Oceanfront Golf Courses

En route to a finish overlooking the beach, the Four Seasons Nevis course first plays uphill then provides some dramatic downhill tees with panoramic views. Photo: Four Seasons Resorts

Making par on this Robert Trent Jones II course at the Four Seasons Nevis is no day at the beach—though your reward after sinking the 18th hole could be a stroll right onto Pinney Beach. Only the final hole plays ocean-side, but there’s no shortage of scenery—or challenges. After hitting past the remains of an old sugar mill and into spectacular views of Nevis Peak, the back nine takes an uphill turn, requiring some strong carries, but worth it for the panoramic views of the beach below. At the par-5 15th hole, you’ll be looking at better than 650 yards from the back tee to the greens. Relax, the heady 175-foot fairway drop puts gravity on your side. Overall, the course’s many long, narrow fairways keep you honest, and you’ll discover why the golf gurus consistently rank these as 18 of the finest holes in the Caribbean.

Where to Stay: The Four Seasons resort is equally serious about tennis and has 10 well-maintained courts. Three pools provide varying levels of quiet-versus-fun, and a sheltered section of Pinney Beach is devoted to swimming and water sports. With rooms and suites set in free-standing cottages nestled into the lushly landscaped property, it’s possible to find a bit of privacy, but equally easy to join the fun. The resort is family-friendly, but not at the expense of adult-centric services and amenities. Beach lovers may want to secure one of the resort’s cabana-style beach verandas. These open-air day retreats are just steps from the water’s edge and deliver sweeping views of the Caribbean and Nevis’ sister island of St. Kitts.

White Witch, St. James, Jamaica

White Witch Golf Course, St. James, Jamaica

White Witch challenges with strategic bunkers and undulating greens, but ultimately rewards with spectacular water views. It is now managed jointly with nearby Cinnamon Hill. Photo: Rose Hill

Jamaica’s White Witch golf course offers spellbinding beautiful ocean views from most every hole, but it can also torment with narrow fairways leading to wickedly placed bunkers and fast, undulating greens. This long par 71, designed by Robert von Hagge and Rick Baril, is generally considered the best in Jamaica. Located within the historic grounds of the Rose Hill Plantation near Montego Bay, the course takes its name not from the beguilingly architecture, but from the former plantation owner and alleged voodoo mistress, Annie Palmer (no relation to the golfing great). Any magic now emanating from this 200-acre swath of golfing paradise is of a brighter nature and might involve the club’s renowned “golf concierges”—local caddies whose intimate knowledge of course strategy can help players shave a few strokes off their game.

Where to Stay: Be among the first to stay at the Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall when it opens in 2014. A former Ritz-Carlton, the property will re-emerge as an adult-focused all-inclusive with an emphasis on active recreation supported by upscale amenities and the Hyatt branding. 

Punta Espada Golf Club, Cap Cana, Dominican Republic

Punta Espada Golf Club, Cap Cana, Dominican Republic

On Punta Espada’s scenic 2nd hole, the views can distract, and sea breezes often come into play. The immaculately-groomed course is one of the top ranked in the Caribbean. Photo: Punta Espada

The Dominican Republic rewards vacationing golfers with a wealth of challenging and scenic waterfront courses, and one of the latest additions to this roster is the Punta Espada Golf Club at Cap Cana. This lushly landscaped and immaculately groomed course has garnered top honors for the Caribbean two years running from Golfweek magazine. The scenery alone goes a long way towards justifying such a ranking, as there are ocean views from all holes and eight play right along the beach. But this Jack Nicklaus-signature course also offers a level of play equal to its beauty, incorporating natural features such as bluffs, beach, waterways and foliage into a design that can accommodate yet challenge golfers of all levels, including the pros. The fairways are relatively wide and provide forgiving bailout areas, but the course requires both accuracy and strategy to score well. Many consider the par-3 13th hole to be Punta Espada’s signature hole, and it is also one of the more challenging, with a stunningly distracting sliver of ocean between tee and green.

Where to Stay: There are several first-class beachfront properties near the club. For a vacation stay as memorable as your rounds of play, book a suite or villa at the adjacent Eden Roc at Cap Cana. All suites feature private outdoor pools and gazebos, and guests have access to the exclusive Caletón Beach Club.

St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Rio Grande, Puerto Rico

St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, Rio Grande, Puerto Rico

After playing through mangrove lowlands that have been designated as a bird sanctuary, the Bahia Beach course breaks out of the forest at the 16th to play along a palm-lined beach. Photo: St Regis Bahia Beach

Long before you reach the namesake strand of sand, the Bahia Beach Golf Course brings water into play. In all, some 15 holes of this 7,000-yard course include water features. Designer Robert Trent Jones Jr. took full advantage of a network of existing saltwater lagoons to create a layout that in his words, “will challenge but also delight your soul and spirit.” Through much of the course, thick foliage and water features line the fairways, creating not only a buffer against coastal trade winds, but also preserving one of the island’s more pristine natural habitats. In fact, Bahia Beach is the first and only course in Puerto Rico to be named a Gold Audubon International Signature Sanctuary. Above the greenery and lagoons, the highlands of the El Yunque National Rain Forest loom in the distance. But the real reward comes when players break out to the ocean at the 16th hole and play their final three holes beachside. Here, sea breezes can become a factor, but overall this course provides not only natural attractions, but also a great round of resort golf that challenges without inciting frustration.

Where to Stay: The golf course is part of a planned residential and vacation complex that includes the St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort. More than half of the property’s 480 acres were left wild and include two miles of sand beaches. Hiking trails wind around lakes and through a bird sanctuary, the grounds of a former coconut plantation and indigenous coastal forests. The resort’s focus on luxury and service is matched by its commitment to an ecologically responsible operation. So guests enjoy nature along with gastronomic and other pleasures one would expect from a world-class resort destination. 

El Camaleón Golf Club, Playa del Carmen, Mexico

El Camaleón Golf Club, Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Mexico’s El Camaleon plays through lush coastal landscapes and visits the beach twice, first at the 7th (shown) and again at the 15th. Photo: Fairmont Hotels

Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula sits on a Swiss cheese of underground rivers. Just behind the beaches of the Riviera Maya, several of these caverns rise to the surface to guard the fairways of the El Camaleón Golf Club. Some might consider the fact that this course hosts Mexico’s only PGA TOUR stop reason enough to tee up. But well-maintained fairways and greens are far from the only reason to play this favorite vacation golf destination. The course’s architecture pays homage to its natural surroundings, beginning with a tee adjacent to a watering hole known as a cenote. A lush mangrove habitat flanks fairways with thick green foliage, and a series of canals attracts birds and local fauna. Twice during its play along the coastal forests, El Camaleón provides golfers with panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and one of the world’s longest coral reefs. Both the 7th and 15th holes are beachside, where trade winds come into play. From the long tees, this course challenges the pros, but played a bit shorter, it can also accommodate those with a two-digit handicap. Adding to the appeal is a full-service clubhouse with adjoining practice facilities, with a double-ended, 350-yard driving range and an expansive short-game area with putting and chipping greens.

Where to Stay: Though accessible from a number of resorts in the Riviera Maya region, the smart play is to stay on-site at the Fairmont Mayakoba Resort. This AAA 5-Diamond oceanfront property is a low-rise collection of structures that pay homage to local tradition, along with a respect for the natural environment. A majority of the resort’s rooms, suites and casitas are cloistered in a coastal jungle overlooking lagoons, but pools, common areas and a select set of rooms overlook the bright waters of the Caribbean across a stunning strand of white sand.

Pacifico Golf Course at Punta Mita, Mexico

Pacifico Golf Course at Punta Mita, Mexico

Hole 3B at Punta Mita’s Pacifico course earned its nickname “Tail of the Whale” from the humpback whales that are sometimes sighted breaching just offshore. Photo: Four Seasons Resorts

Playing the Pacifico course at the Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita may not be the most difficult round of golf in the tropics, but it is undoubtedly one of the most scenic. Taking full advantage of its waterfront real estate, the course meanders around the resort’s peninsula to provide eight holes directly fronting the Pacific Ocean or Banderas Bay. It’s complemented by palm-fringed and beautifully landscaped fairways overlooked by the distant Sierra Madre mountains. During winter months, players may face an added distraction as they approach the third tee: migrating whales passing just offshore. A highlight of any round—and a must-do photo op with or without the passing whales—is hole 3B, aka the Tail of the Whale. Presented as an optional par 3, this hole requires golfers to carry across beach and rocky shallows to a green embedded on a small island. It’s spectacular and possibly intimidating. But in reality, the Tail of the Whale is as accommodating as the majority of this course, which offers wide and relatively forgiving fairways that allow players to focus on the view without sweating the strategy. Players looking for a more challenging round can play the resort’s other course, the Nicklaus-designed Bahia, which is rated 10 strokes tougher than its seaside sibling and provides a variety of terrain challenges.

Where to Stay: Spectacular backdrops aren’t the only reward for playing a round at Pacifico. You have the option of settling in at one of Punta Mita’s luxurious resorts—including the course’s host property, the Four Seasons. The spa ranks as highly for its services as the golf course does for its scenery, and beaches, pools and activities please not only players, but their spouses and families as well. 

Ocean Course at Cabo del Sol, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Ocean Course at Cabo del Sol, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

The Cabo Del Sol Ocean Course offers nearly a mile of oceanfront play, including one of the premier tandem par-3s in the game, the dramatic 6th and 7th.. Photo: Jim Mandeville / Nicklaus Design

For more than two decades, the Ocean Course at Cabo del Sol has reigned as Baja’s premier beachside golf course. With seven direct oceanfront holes, it certainly commands more waterfront than any other course on the Baja Peninsula. In addition to a mile of scenic beach, the course serves up challenging topography with an ample helping of arroyos and sand traps, along with some demanding carries. As new courses sprouted up in recent years, the Cabo del Sol team upped their game with a reconfiguration of several signature holes. The green on the signature par-4 5th hole now perches precipitously close to crashing surf, creating additional drama for a hole that has been ranked among the best 500 in golf. Next, players tee off for the first of two redesigned back-to-back par 3s at 6th and 7th. Already being called two of the primer tandem 3s in the game, these holes skirt a tidal inlet flanked by craggy outcroppings, creating a test of accuracy to challenge the game’s best when hit from the blues. As you make your way towards the spectacular 17th, also a world-ranked hole, you may see why Nicklaus himself called this stretch “the three finest finishing holes in all of golf.”

Where to Stay: For easy access to the course, you can choose from three resorts within the Cabo del Sol development—the Fiesta Americana Grand, the Sheraton Hacienda del Mar and the Premier Resorts condominiums—or for access to even more of Baja’s best golfing action, move up the coast a few miles to the Hilton Los Cabos, which offers golf packages that includes playing the area’s other premier courses. 

The Challenge at Manele Bay, Lanai, Hawaii

The Challenge at Manele Bay, Lanai, Hawaii

Lanai’s Challenge At Manele Bay perches atop a high bluff overlooking the waters of the Hulopoe Marine Reserve. The 12th hole requires a 200-yard water carry. Photo: Hawaii Tourism Authority

Getting to the quiet island of Lanai requires a ferry ride or a connecting flight from a major Hawaiian gateway, but the reward for hauling your clubs along is a chance to play one of the world’s most scenic ocean-side courses: the Challenge at Manele Bay. Sitting on the island’s remote southern coast atop a 200-foot-high wall of red lava cliffs, the course provides spectacular ocean views and photo ops from start to finish. Don’t let your attention stray from the fairway, however, as nine doglegs and several carries across unforgiving black lava fields demand targeted play, especially when hitting from the long tees. The signature and much-photographed 12th hole will test your faith, as it requires a 200-yard carry across breaking surf. You have a chance to repeat your performance at the 17th hole, which calls for a dramatic cliff-side carry. Trade winds are usually a factor, but the course was created with the prevailing breezes in mind, and players usually finish with a sense of exhilaration rather than frustration.

Where to Stay: Book a room on-property at the Four Seasons Lanai at Manele Bay. The resort overlooks Hulopoe Bay, the best bathing spot on the island. The Four Season staff coordinates guests’ water-sports adventures, ranging from swims with spotted dolphins and snorkel tours of the protected reefs to scuba dives, ocean kayak tours and surfing lessons. The more sedentary find beach umbrellas and a sparkling pool, plus a full range of dining and pampering one would expect from a Four Seasons property. 

Mauna Kea Golf Course, Kohala Coast, Hawaii

Mauna Kea Golf Course, Kohala Coast, Hawaii

With its dramatic water carry, panoramic ocean views and lush landscaping, Mauna Kea’s 3rd hole is one of the most photographed holes in the sport of golf. Photo: Mauna Kea Beach Resort

It’s been 50 years since Robert Trent Jones, Sr. created this course atop the black volcanic ash of the Big Island’s western shores. It was christened by a round from the Big Three— Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player—and soon earned a reputation as Hawaii’s best. The course has held up well in the decades since and is still highly regarded in golfing circles as a must-play venue. In fact, Mauna Kea has been credited for defining the components that make an ideal resort course. The scenery rewards as the course rises from the ocean to heights of 300 feet to deliver panoramic views of the coast, but the architecture also delivers its share of challenges. Elevation and prevailing winds often come into play, and the pitched and well-guarded greens require accurate approach shots. The course’s par-3 third is one of the most photographed holes in all of golf. Hitting from a cliff-side tee, players must carry across a small bay to a green that is guarded by seven bunkers.

Where to Stay: The course is a 30-mile drive from resorts in the Kona area, but two premier properties are within walking distance of the fairways. The course’s host property, Mauna Kea Beach Resort, provides exclusive access to what many consider the Big Island’s best white-sand beach. Just to the south of the course, the Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel overlooks its namesake bay and beach, delivering magnificent ocean views from every room.