North Pacific
The Pacific with American polish.
Hawaii is the island group for travellers who want the beaches without giving up the infrastructure — and it is superb for large family groups.
Hawaii solves a specific problem: a big family, a wide range of ages, and the need for everybody to find their own version of a good day. Resorts here are large and extremely well run, the roads are excellent, the food scene is serious, and the natural drama — volcanoes, sea cliffs, whale migration — is unlike anywhere else in the collection.
The choice of island is the whole decision. Maui for the balance of beach, road trips and dining. The Big Island for volcanoes, star-gazing and space. Kauai for green cliffs and the least developed coastline. Oahu when the group wants a city as well.
Who this suits
The right traveller for Hawaii.
It is a long flight from Australia, and it is not the destination for absolute seclusion.
- ◆Multi-generational families and milestone gatherings
- ◆Travellers who want to self-drive and explore
- ◆Whale watchers travelling between December and April
- ◆Groups needing accessible, well-serviced resorts
Signature experiences
The days worth building the trip around.
Humpback season off Maui
December to April, in the Auau channel — the densest humpback gathering in the North Pacific.
Sunrise above the clouds at Haleakala
A permitted, pre-dawn drive to 3,000 metres for the sunrise from the crater rim.
Volcanoes National Park after dark
The Kilauea caldera glow, timed with a ranger's evening briefing.
The Napali coast by boat
Kauai's sea cliffs from the water — the only way most people ever see them.
From Belinda's island archive
When to go
Every month has its Hawaii.
- Apr – Jun, Sep – NovThe shoulder months. Fewer crowds, better rates and consistently good weather.
- Dec – MarWhale season and the northern winter peak. Book resorts and cars well ahead.
Belinda's note on Hawaii
“When a family of twelve tells me they need one destination that keeps grandparents, teenagers and toddlers all happy, Hawaii is usually my answer — and Maui is usually the island.”
Belinda Hackett · Matai Fiji Gold Specialist
Next step
Tell Belinda what you're picturing.
Five short steps, read personally — and a tailored Hawaii proposal, usually within one business day.
Elsewhere in the collection