Hawaii is a perfect place for a winter sun get away, the travel time might be a little further than European destinations but with the white beaches, crystal waters and beautiful scenery it is well worth the journey

Hawaii is the 50th American State, being the last to join in 1959. Located in the Pacific Ocean, it encompasses most of the volcanic Hawaiian Island chain which is spread over roughly 1,500 kilometres, with the 8 main islands at the south eastern end. All the islands were formed through volcanic activity, which has resulted in unique geological features, from underwater magma formations to towering cliffs and mountains. The only active volcanoes now are located on the island of Hawaii, usually known as the Big Island to distinguish it from the state. The isolated position of the islands has created a wide range of endemic plants and animals, many of which are endangered . The varied landscape provides a good array of habitats from the high altitude to the tropical forests which also help create the diverse wildlife and the islands are frequented by diving enthusiasts keen to experience the unique underwater scenery. The climate is a typical tropical one, with the humidity of summers tempered by trade winds from the east. Snow falls on the highest peaks but the winter temperatures rarely drop below 28 degrees during the day; perfect for a winter sun holiday. There are many things to see and do in the islands, Hawaii has the 4th longest coast of all the American states so water sports and activities are readily available. Snorkel or dive in the crystal clear seas, visit the famous cathedral dive site and if you are lucky swim with Manta rays, turtles and dolphins. Take a kayak round the coast, exploring quiet coves and sea caves, or sail a catamaran from island to island. The brave can take a trip up to the edge of an active volcano on the Big Island or go deep sea, big game fishing in the surrounding oceans. If you are after a relaxing, stress free holiday then Hawaii can provide that too. Many full service resorts cann provide for your every need without you lifting a finger, except to raise a Mai Tai to your lips. How about renting a Condo to fit the entire family? Or to really get away from it try a secluded bed and breakfast in a meadow in the countryside. Hawaii Regional Cuisine was formed by a group of native Master Chefs to put Hawaii`s regional dishes on the map; countless awards and critical acclaim later they have certainly succeeded, mixing Asian, American and European cooking styles with the local vegetables and fish this is a culinary experience not to be missed. Hawaii`s endless variety, beautiful scenery and friendly people will make any holiday amazing, but throw in the contrast to a cold and slushy UK winter and you have the ultimate winter sun destination. Many holiday companies offer discounts on winter sun trips and with a quick look at companies such as First Choice discount vouchers can easily be found. So escape the dark winter days and head out to the Aloha State of Hawaii

> Hawaii is a perfect place for a winter sun get away, the travel time might be a little further than European destinations but with the white beaches, crystal waters and beautiful scenery it is well worth the journey
Hawaii is the 50th American State, being the last to join in 1959. Located in the Pacific Ocean, it encompasses most of the volcanic Hawaiian Island chain which is spread over roughly 1,500 kilometres, with the 8 main islands at the south eastern end. All the islands were formed through volcanic activity, which has resulted in unique geological features, from underwater magma formations to towering cliffs and mountains. The only active volcanoes now are located on the island of Hawaii, usually known as the Big Island to distinguish it from the state. The isolated position of the islands has created a wide range of endemic plants and animals, many of which are endangered . The varied landscape provides a good array of habitats from the high altitude to the tropical forests which also help create the diverse wildlife and the islands are frequented by diving enthusiasts keen to experience the unique underwater scenery. The climate is a typical tropical one, with the humidity of summers tempered by trade winds from the east. Snow falls on the highest peaks but the winter temperatures rarely drop below 28 degrees during the day; perfect for a winter sun holiday. There are many things to see and do in the islands, Hawaii has the 4th longest coast of all the American states so water sports and activities are readily available. Snorkel or dive in the crystal clear seas, visit the famous cathedral dive site and if you are lucky swim with Manta rays, turtles and dolphins. Take a kayak round the coast, exploring quiet coves and sea caves, or sail a catamaran from island to island. The brave can take a trip up to the edge of an active volcano on the Big Island or go deep sea, big game fishing in the surrounding oceans. If you are after a relaxing, stress free holiday then Hawaii can provide that too. Many full service resorts cann provide for your every need without you lifting a finger, except to raise a Mai Tai to your lips. How about renting a Condo to fit the entire family? Or to really get away from it try a secluded bed and breakfast in a meadow in the countryside. Hawaii Regional Cuisine was formed by a group of native Master Chefs to put Hawaii`s regional dishes on the map; countless awards and critical acclaim later they have certainly succeeded, mixing Asian, American and European cooking styles with the local vegetables and fish this is a culinary experience not to be missed. Hawaii`s endless variety, beautiful scenery and friendly people will make any holiday amazing, but throw in the contrast to a cold and slushy UK winter and you have the ultimate winter sun destination. Many holiday companies offer discounts on winter sun trips and with a quick look at companies such as First Choice discount vouchers can easily be found. So escape the dark winter days and head out to the Aloha State of Hawaii

If you plan on taking a vacation in beautiful Hawaii, you need to be aware of transportation options. Public transport is just about non-existent, except on Oahu, where The Bus supplies very good transport. If you stay at Waikiki Beach and mostly visit downtown Honolulu, you will not need your own transport. For all other areas it is strongly recommended that you use car rental in order to make the most of your visit. And if you heed the following tips, renting a car in Hawaii will be an uncomplicated experience.

If you plan on taking a vacation in beautiful Hawaii, you need to be aware of transportation options. Public transport is just about non-existent, except on Oahu, where The Bus supplies very good transport. If you stay at Waikiki Beach and mostly visit downtown Honolulu, you will not need your own transport. For all other areas it is strongly recommended that you use car rental in order to make the most of your visit. And if you heed the following tips, renting a car in Hawaii will be an uncomplicated experience.
The most important thing is that you book your vehicle well in advance, at least three months before you arrive. Do so online through a company that compare prices of many rental companies; make use of any discount coupons available. Most bookings do not require a credit card number, so you are free to change your booking at any time before your arrival. It is recommended that you regularly check rental deals, as these change constantly and chances are that you will get a better deal if you are attentive. It is more economical to make use of the smallest vehicle that can accommodate all passengers and their luggage; an SUV is not necessary as you are generally not allowed to drive off road and some rough roads are actually prohibited if you use a rental vehicle. You could even be given a free upgrade to a larger vehicle if your booked one is not available, so make sure to inquire about that possibility.
Be aware of surcharges such as insurance, which you might not need as your own insurance or credit card might cover that. Some companies charge extra for a second driver and drivers under 25 are expected to pay significantly more. Avoid making use of smaller cheaper rental companies, as their vehicles are usually older and less reliable. Some vacation package deals include cheaper car rental. Make sure you really need any extras such as child car seats, luggage racks or satellite navigation, so bring your own GPS from home.
Renting from a company situated at the airport is more expensive than one off site, so it is worth your while making use of a shuttle service taking you to an agency further away. If your flight arrives after five in the afternoon, the rental desks will be closed and you need to use the airport or hotel shuttle service to reach your accommodation.
When picking up your vehicle, check it carefully for existing damage and that this has been recorded by the rental company. Any unrecorded damage will have to be paid by you upon return of the vehicle. Drop-off charges apply only if you return the rental vehicle at a different island or airport to the one where you picked it up. Make use of the free Hawaii Drive Guides for maps and information.
When returning the vehicle, do so in time and on the specified date to avoid late or early return surcharges. Fill up the tank just before delivery, as rental companies charge a hefty fee for refuelling. Making use of the above tips when availing yourself of car rental will make your Hawaiian vacation a dream come true.

If you`re travelling to the delightful state of Hawaii, you cannot be disappointed with the stunning scenery, exotic tropical rainforests, miles of golden sandy beaches and the warmth of the welcome. However, finding the right accommodation that`s just right for your particular needs makes the icing on the cake. So here are some things to think about when you`re choosing the right accommodation when you make a trip to fantastic Hawaii.

If you`re travelling to the delightful state of Hawaii, you cannot be disappointed with the stunning scenery, exotic tropical rainforests, miles of golden sandy beaches and the warmth of the welcome. However, finding the right accommodation that`s just right for your particular needs makes the icing on the cake. So here are some things to think about when you`re choosing the right accommodation when you make a trip to fantastic Hawaii.
Firstly who is going on your holiday? Hawaii boasts a magnificent range of places to stay with everything from world class resorts to comfortable family-run bed and breakfasts, private beach hotels and self catering villas. Are you just a couple or a family needing several rooms? Perhaps you`re a group of friends that want to share facilities but need a number of rooms together.
Do you have any special needs that need to be catered for? Do you need to be on a ground floor, would you have trouble with steps? Do you have a special diet? If your chosen holiday has catering included, are they able to cater for any special dietary requirements?
How much money do you have to spend? Do you need budget accommodation or do you want an extravagant trip? Hawaii is a popular place to go to get married -and there are some fantastic all-inclusive hotels which will easily accommodate all your guests. What kind of things do you want to do on holiday? With so many activities to choose from across the islands, make sure you`re near what you love to do. For instance Sheraton Kauai Beach Resort & Spa on Kauai has a stunning golf course as well as spa, or you may want to get an adrenaline rush on the zip wires through the forest on Kauai. If you love city life and doing some shopping then staying in Honolulu may be for you. Of course you may want to be near the beach to swim in the crystal blue waters, or if you enjoy a quieter holiday and getting away from it all you can pick one of the quieter islands such as Kaala.
Do you want to travel around or just stay put, relaxing in your accommodation? Each major island has its own interstates and public transportation that circle the island. Hiring a car is a popular this to do to make the most of exploring all the delightful sight that these beautiful islands have to offer. There is commercial air travel between the island via small airports.
Are you going when there is an event? Make sure you book well ahead as Hawaii host many internationally renowned festivals, such as the Merrie Monarch International Hula competition and the Hawaii International Film Festival.
What time of year are you going? Hawaii has a tropical climate, the dry season being from May to October. Does your room have any air conditioning? Areas in the south west of each island tend to be better sheltered from any prevailing wind.
Whatever your needs; whether you choose to stay in a large city hotel or make your base one of a gorgeous private villa rental, the beautiful islands of Hawaii will enchant you with their welcome and their unique surroundings.

Situated in the Pacific, the islands of Hawaii make up a beautiful state that combines spectacular scenery with a vibrant culture and a fascinating reflection of the past. Whilst the islands used to be important traders in various goods and a hub for whaling, the changing economy and banning of the latter trade has resulted in a changed focus in the community. Nowadays a major base for the US army, Hawaii`s economy is based mostly on this and its tourist industry. Consequently the area and the local amenities are geared toward tourism and there is a great deal on offer for tourists. The islands themselves provide a choice of where to stay from the main island of Hawaii, home to one of the world`s most active volcanoes, to Lanai, a small private island that used to be entirely filled with pineapple plantations and has now been developed to contain several exclusive resorts. 

Once you have chosen where to go there is of course the option to travel around all the islands and exploring the sights on offer. Hawaii is home to a number of fascinating spots from natural wonders to cultural spots and sights. The islands were, of course, famously home to the Pearl Harbour attack on the US Navy during the Second World War and there is a poignant memorial on the island of Oahu to the soldiers and civilians who died. Oahu is also the home of the capital, Honolulu, as well as housing the vast majority of the residents of Hawaii. Combining the appeal of the relaxed culture and style of living on the islands, with all the bustle and drive that comes with a major economic city, Honolulu is a vibrant city with a buzzing nightlife, a vast amount of culture and entertainment on offer and numerous shops and markets where you an stock up on a range of goods. 

The Big Island of Hawaii is home to one of the most active volcanoes in the world as well as some of the largest mountains in the world. Situated in a huge national park, the region makes for the perfect spot for walking, for escaping from the sights and sounds of the city and exploring into the wilderness. There is also the option to rent a bike out here and cover a lot more ground by mountain bike. The island is home to numerous beaches as well as various fruit and nut plantations for the remains of the trade that still exists in Hawaii. The islands house an extensive number of natural sights from a large volcanic mountain crater on Maui Island to the island that boasts the title of one of the rainiest spots in the world. There are various sights, both well known and yet to be discovered, that offer some of the most picturesque and fascinating holiday spots in the world and, with the islands` focused hotel trade there are a number of secret hotels revealed all over the state. 

Hawaii, 50th state of the USA, is a group of volcanic islands in the Pacific ocean and with over 750 miles of coastline and some truly spectacular surf it is unsurprisingly a popular dream holiday destination. Famous for Hula dances, Grass skirts and Pearl Harbour the Hawaiian Islands have much more to offer than that.

Although Hawaii`s islands are all famed for their breath-taking sea views, the islands of Kauai, Oahu, Hawaii`s Big Island, Maui, Lanai and Molokai each offer something different and unique.

Kauai for example is the the oldest island, boasting huge cliffs and the Wailua, the islands only navigable river.

Take a trip to Oahu and you`ll find a vibrant and busy island with many surfing events and a number of modern buildings and activities. Taking to the waves and trying your hand at surfing is a must-do activity here.

Believed to have developed and thrived in Hawaii with an early account of the sport referencing the island written by Lieutenant James King in 1779, surfing has transformed from a Royal pastime to a popular urban activity.

By the 1950`s Hawaii was the place to be to try the biggest and best waves and now often hosts some of the best surfing competitions. With so much emphasis placed on watersports this island is a key place for those looking for thrills and spills in the water.

Over on the island of Molokai you`ll experience an older town and an historic seaport as well as one of the largest sandy beaches in Hawaii. Although if it`s a romantic setting you`re after, try the island of Lanai, where you`ll be able to escape the crowds and enjoy a conbination of excellent dining and beautiful landscapes.

For the brave adventurer try a visit to Hawaii`s tallest peak, Mauna Kea, located on The Big Island. Standing at 13,796ft, this huge underwater mountain is a result of the sesmic events that have shaped the geography of the Islands. These shifts and changes are still ongoing and their history and the landscapes they helped to create form a key part of the tours offered within the local area.

Trading adventure for peace, calm and tranquility, Hawaii`s Tropical Botanical Garden and Nani Mau Gardens are well worth a visit, especially with the range of elegant waterfalls and exotic flora and fauna

It`s also worth a trip to see some of the main Heritage sites on the islands, including a must-see visit to Pearl Harbor. As the largest natural harbour in Hawaii this makes for a great day out. However it also provides an important memorial for the many brave soldiers who fought and lost their lives in World War II. Here, in central Oahu, you`ll find the Pacific Aviation Museum, the USS Oklahoma Memorial and many more sites that honour those who served.

With so many things to do and see and with island hopping both easy and hassle free the Hawaiian Islands are a great destination for a truly memorable holiday. To make the best of your stay and to find out more about the unique opportunities this group of islands provides take a look at Groupon Ireland and make a dream come true.