Golf lovers flock to Hawaii for its pristine courses, and few are more spectacular than the Mauna Lani course. For an explanation of our Advertising Policy, visit. See all of our readers' favorite hotels, cities, airlines, cruise lines, and more in the World's Best Awards for 2021. The battleship is open for tours four days a week, and expert guides give in-depth talks on the ships role in the war. As I enjoyed a drink and observed the sun dropping into the sea, any anxiety I had of traveling alone during the holidays melted away. Check here before booking an award fare. If you live on the West Coast, Hawaii can be an easier and even more cost-effective destination than the Caribbean. Photo: by Laura Dornbush. Its a beautiful, unspoiled island. Offers may be subject to change without notice. Hawaii was the holy grail of vacation destinations for most U.S. residents even before it became a state in 1959. Book a guide to drive you up, so you can learn about the dormant volcanic crater and its history. When COVID-19 struck the United States in late winter 2020 relaxing on a warm beach with a subtle island . Depending on what part of the U.S. you call home, it could be easier to get to either the Caribbean or Hawaii. From snorkeling to sunset cruises, history tours and coffee tastings, there is no shortage of things to do in Hawaii during COVID. (This may explain why another reader said this destination is so beautiful that he honeymooned there twice with two different wives.). It is also one of the most popular spots for a photoshoot. But there are also plenty of impressive hotels for those who prefer to maximize their resort time. When you reach your final destination to reconnect with family or visit a favorite spot, youll remember that its all worth it. The SafeTravels Program will remain in place statewide through at least Jan. 28, but since local governors are now in charge of rules in their territories some things may change from an island to another. Anini Vista Drive Estate feels like its own boutique hotel, with five bedrooms, a lush pool area with two waterfalls and a bridge, plus towering palm trees everywhere. Travel + Leisure magazine may receive compensation for some links to products and services on this website. Survey rules have always allowed readers to reflect on their travel experiences over a three-year period. Should you want to use Southwest points to get to Hawaii (or the Caribbean) those points count toward earning a Companion Pass. If youre interested in less conventional beaches, Hawaii has them in pink, green, red and even black sands. 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. With roughly . Then we breezed through TSA and were at our gate within 20 minutes. The Best Hawaiian Islands to Visit for Different Kinds of Travelers Will it be lava flows or luxury resorts? 6x Marriott Bonvoy Points on each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy program. Sometimes, the best choice comes down to personal preferences, where youre flying from, how much time you have and flight and hotel availability for your dates. You will find many places along the way where it is easy to rent a paddleboard for the day. Everyone is looking forward to the reopening of Mauna Lani, an Auberge property [soft opening on November 15], several years in the making, said Ken Neibaur. The Mauna Kea, part of the Autograph Collection, has been a standard for Californians, and they have villas, as well.. With beautiful ocean views, the restaurant exuded a safe, comfortable atmosphere. And guess what? Hawaii Covid Travels Between Islands: Simplified - iVisa.com My guide picked me. Finally, I received the green light and walked through the doors where a group of Hawaiian dancers welcomed me with a performance. Next, it's important to register online for the Safe Travels program prior to boarding the final leg of your trip. Kilauea is considered to be one of the most active volcanoes on earth at the moment. Though they told me my results would come in 24 to 36 hours, I was informed I tested negative within seven hours. But there is plenty to do, says Kingbeaches, snorkeling, humpback whale viewing during January and early February, golf courses, and fine dining, like the famous Mamas Fish House. FYI: they call your mobile phone on the spot to double-check the number you wrote on the form. Readthe FAQs. My favorite is the Montage Kapalua Bay [reopening October 15] up at the north end of the island. LESLIE HARVEY/THE POINTS GUY Maui Travel Guide | U.S. News Travel (Youll even find an included kids club at Aulani. Military personnel stationed at Pearl Harbor wrote home about the islands secluded beaches, waterfalls, lava flows and tunnels and so much more. See what a point or mile is worth with our appraisals of a loyalty programs currency, based on redemption values. While most beaches are great for this fun activity, there are some that come highly recommended. I think Kauai may be Hawaiis strongest draw now, says Neibaur. Related: Little-known Caribbean islands to visit before everyone else. Steep cliffs on the coast of Maui, as seen from the Road to Hana. 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Molokai Molokai is the least visited island of Hawaii. Copyright 2022 Travel + Leisure Co. All Rights Reserved. Every Caribbean Island's COVID-19 Travel Policies - Leisure The Four Seasons Oahu at Ko Olina is here, a nice property away from the majority of resorts and Waikiki beach, says King. An expert guide rides along and provides the history of the island and its sights. What it's like to travel to Hawaii right now | CNN If you are an early bird and a germaphobe (who isnt these days? Here's what it was like to travel to the Hawaiian island during peak season in December amid the COVID-19 pandemic. This all day tour starts with pickup from your hotel and takes you to Waikikis Diamond Head volcano for a birds-eye view of the islands majesty. 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. 2. Looking for a beautiful house with presidential and celebrity-level security? Fly out first. 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. HoMa features stories, films, Art After Dark, and Family Funday Sundays for residents and visitors alike. "It is stunning," wrote one reader. Divided into three floors, this museum tells the story of the world before humanity through a series of myths and stories. Please view our advertising policy page for more information. Hawaii's indoor mask mandate ended on March 25, 2022. For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter. Waianuenue Falls, often called Rainbow Falls, is a five-minute drive from downtown Hilo in Wailuku River State Park. Best Hawaiian Islands to Visit: World's Best 2021 - Travel She contributes to publications including. This article was originally published on June 24, 2020. 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+. Pro tip: The Park is open to all visitors but, due to the strong eruption back in December, it is not recommended for visitors with heart or respiratory problems, children or pregnant women until the air becomes clearer. As I boarded the plane, I was given a hand sanitizer wipe and ushered to my seat. We say theres no universally bad time to visit either destination. Neibaur also loves to recommend the home rental options at the Four Seasons complex, especially for those seeking more privacy now. Do your prep work. There's no shortage of natural splendor, exciting adventure activities, and high-caliber resorts on the best islands of Hawaii. Rush Processing; the relatively quicker and costlier option. 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 US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has lifted its requirement for travelers to test negative for Covid-19 before entering the United States. It does share the beach with Disneys Aulani [opening November 1], which can be a good or bad thing, depending on the traveler. In the Caribbean, youll find historic forts, former sugar cane plantations, rum distilleries and plenty of coffee beans in the mountains of Jamaica. And both airlines offer buy-one-get-one fares. 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. Theyre wedged between the southernmost tip of Florida to the north, South America to the south and Central America to the west. 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. CNN . Set on a gorgeous backdrop of swaying palms and positioned on top of a lava bed, this golf course is ringed by the breathtaking Kiawe forests. Hawaii, like many other states, has its own travel procedures amid the COVID-19 pandemic. If you keep up with airline deals, you can luck out and find cheap fares to the Caribbean. To ease my anxiety, I over prepared by washing our face masks, packing wipes and hand sanitizerand researching the new travel rules. If splurging on a helicopter tour, choose a provider that builds in carbon off-setting in the pricing. Are you debating between a trip to Hawaii or somewhere in the Caribbean? You will be provided with noise-canceling headphones while listening to the history and other interesting facts about the places you are seeing. Spend enough time on this oasis, and you could get through most of your bucket list. The volcanoes national park in Hawaii is one of the few in the hemisphere that offers a unique close-up look at a chain of an active volcanoes system. Maui has numerous resorts, where travelers tend to go and spend time. Instrumental in the battles of World War II and the site of the bombing of Pearl Harbor, the Battleship Missouri was one of the few warships sent to Hawaii to defend the US territory (which later became a state). Travel + Leisure magazine may receive compensation for some links to products and services on this website. Want more information about what you have reador have any other questions? If youre into wildlife, you can see dolphins, sea turtles and stingrays in both Hawaii and the Caribbean. What started as a family holiday reunion in Maui ended with a disappointing, but sensible, call: "Honey," my dad said. If youre staying in a house or villa, request that your provisions come from a local farmer or rancher, she said. Plus, your own feed of TPG content. And although this turbulent time has been about protecting yourself and others, the warmth of the Hawaiian people taught me that isolation doesn't have to mean alienation. Starbucks was the only food establishment open in the interisland terminal when we traveled. In my opinion, the best one is the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, close to Kona airport, with great golf but not a terrific beach. Hawaii Is Open For Tourism But Adjusting Some Covid Travel Rules But, the real question is, should you go to the Caribbean or Hawaii? Children younger than 2 years old should not wear a mask. The 5 Best Islands in Mexico and Central and South America, The 25 Best Islands in the Caribbean, Bermuda, and the Bahamas, The 5 Best Islands in Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific. On Christmas, I treated myself to a two-hour sunset cruise out of Ka'anapali Beach. This tour is an excellent activity for couples who are seeking a romantic experience to top off their Hawaiian vacation. Hawaiian Airlines cleans Neighbor Island flights between each trip, but sprays the aircraftwith hospital-grade disinfectants every night. 7. Opt for a window seat or wherever you can be farthest away from other passengers. What to Know About Ongoing Protests, An Epic Trip and Food Fans Delight Along This Dreamy European River, Discover Insider Wineries, Stunning National Parks, and More of This Destinations Delights, Bask in Family-Friendly Fun in the Heart of This Island Destination, For a Wild West Adventure, Head to These 10 Family-Friendly Ranches and Lodges, This Is the Destination Families Cant Get Enough of Right Now, According to Travel Experts, How to Earn and Burn Hotel Points This Summer. ), consider booking the first flight of the day. I've been living as a digital nomad for 8+ years. The fares can be brutal.). Hawaii's Busiest Islands - Avoid Crowds Josh Alexander, Protravel International: josh.alexander@protravelinc.com, Diane Crisman, Valerie Wilson Travel: dianec@vwti.com, Michael King, Largay Travel: michael@largaytravel.com, Debbie Misajon, The Coconut Traveler: debbie@thecoconutraveler.com, Ken Neibaur, TravelEdge: ken.neibaur@traveledge.com. #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. 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. I love writing and publishing content for digital nomads, remote workers, and passionate travelers like me. Seahorse farm tour. Find comfortable masks. Of course, right now, coronavirus safety precautions have temporarily changed travel to Hawaii and the Caribbean. For anyone interested in American history, no trip to Hawaii would be complete without a stop at Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial, says Crisman. But things still arent equal. As long as the virus is alive and well, staying at home is your safest option. Reach out to the advisors mentioned in the story. Traveling to Hawaii? Be Prepared to Pay - The New York Times Both of the islands only have 74 active cases at the moment. You can drive in your own car, stopping at waterfalls and hiking areas, and for Hawaiian shaved ice. The Caribbean is also where cruise lines have their private islands, such as Royal Caribbeans Coco Cay, Disneys Castaway Cay and the brand-new Ocean Cay from MSC Cruises. The resort was well-prepared, too: Extra masks and wipes were placed throughout the room, and technology made contactless service a breeze. Add around 30 minutes if you leave from Los Angeles instead. It is, in a word, special. Suddenly, two curious whales breached the surface of the water, not 50 feet away. On this tour, you will visit the chocolate plantation and get an insiders view of how the chocolate is harvested, produced and packaged. Renting a kayak is one of the best ways to explore the islands by water. As Hawaii reopens, travelers are booking villas such as Sea Song at Kahili Bay in Kauai. She also recommends a drive to the North Shore to observe surfing and a stop at the Polynesian Cultural Center. After months of being cooped-up in our Kakaako condos, my husband, our 3-year-old son, Duke, and my mother-in-law couldnt wait to escape the city for the wide-open spaces of the Big Island. We hope that this year's honorees will inspire your own travels as you get back out into the world. If youre looking for a getaway to a gorgeous tropical locale, you cant go wrong with either Hawaii or the Caribbean. (Shutterstock via CNN) By Cnn Com Wire Service |. Humble Market Kitchin is a chef Roy Yamaguchi restaurant. As travel guidelines, advisories and procedures are constantly evolving, stay up-to-date with information from the U.S.Centers for Disease Control, theState of Hawaiiand your airline before your trip. Awards can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 35,000 Marriott Bonvoy points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy. /* Add your own Mailchimp form style overrides in your site stylesheet or in this style block. If so, there are also some excellent routes that can get you to the Caribbean islands fairly quickly, again through airline hubs such as Dallas, Houston, Chicago and others. 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. Mine cost $125, and the closest facility was at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). For starters, all travelers must receive a nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) from a certified and trusted partner to override the 10-day mandatory quarantine. 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. After a 25-minute drive, I arrived at the breathtaking Wailea Beach Resort. So which island could outdo these beloved options? 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. But for those wanting to be in the middle of the action, there is a high-rise Ritz-Carlton, the Kahala Hotel & Resort, the Halekulani, which is a favorite of mine, and the pink hotel, the Royal Hawaiian, which is front and center on the beach., For Oahu, we tend to send people to the Four Seasons [Oahu at Ko Olina], outside of Honolulu, says Neibaur. For those reasons, on some Caribbean islands, such as Jamaica, visitors often stay sequestered at their resort instead of renting a car to explore the island as you likely would in Hawaii. Kids love this tour as well. One could even snap a picture of the QR code on the TV to use as a remote control. From the fields to your coffee cup. Terms and Conditions Apply. During the tour you will enjoy several photo stops at vantage points on the island, a macadamia nut and coffee tasting tour and a shrimp lunch on a local Hawaiian farm. If everything is not in order, prepare for a 10-day quarantine or to be sent back on the next flight. On Maui, restaurants and bars must limit occupancy to no more than 50% of the maximum capacity, and tables have to maintain a six-foot distance both indoors and outdoors. 25 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit During COVID - Yahoo Finance A Bostonian could watch two additional full-length movies to kill the extra time it takes to get to Hawaii. During the same period, only six ships call on Hawaiian ports. If you were to take Hawaiian Airlines nonstop flight from Boston to Honolulu, youre looking at spending nine hours and 40 minutes inflight. Your email address will not be published. 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. The beach is likely a major draw whether you plan to vacation in Hawaii or the Caribbean. With nearly endless reservation options to fly or stay, book your next getaway near or far at Travel + Leisure GO. A s soon as we were free to island-hop without a 14-day quarantine, my family boarded a flight from Honolulu to Kona. The credit card offers that appear on the website are from credit card companies from which ThePointsGuy.com receives compensation.