It was a trip we were supposed to take Easter weekend and had been eagerly waiting to reschedule. Sweet tooth holders rejoice! Best Hawaiian Islands to Visit: World's Best 2021 Hawaiian islands are known for their beaches, hikes, and surfing, among other things. Offer ends 5/3/23. If youve got hotel points from the major players like Hilton, Hyatt, Marriott and IHG, youll be able to spend them in either Hawaii or the Caribbean. This tour is an excellent activity for couples who are seeking a romantic experience to top off their Hawaiian vacation. But the trip was booked, so with all travel safety precautions in mind, I decided to explore Maui on my own. The daily exhibition features works by native Hawaiian artists including interactive exhibits and family-friendly installations that kids can touch and explore. Our points-obsessed staff uses a plethora of credit cards on a daily basis. The Best Hawaiian Islands to Visit for Different Kinds of Travelers Will it be lava flows or luxury resorts? 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+. Visit authentic villages and meet the local people, enjoy a fun and festive traditional dinner and luau, experience a one of a kind fire show with more than 100 Polynesian performers and take a personalized Circle Island tour. A note about safety: Petty crime can happen anywhere, so you should pack your street smarts wherever you go. 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. If you live on the West Coast, Hawaii can be an easier and even more cost-effective destination than the Caribbean. Related: When will international travel return? When you visit this site, it may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. ), This Is One Of The Best U.S. States To Camp With The Most Hiking Trails In The Country, This Converted Boeing Private Jet Will Take You On A 21-Day Arctic Trip, ChatGPT Introduces AI-Powered Plugins For Expedia and Kayak, Making Travel Planning Effortless, This Hidden Island Is Becoming One Of The Trendiest Destinations In Asia In 2023, EU plans to welcome vaccinated tourists from low-risk countries by June, UK plans to reopen international travel under traffic light system by summer, Is The Bahamas Safe? The other restaurants and the Hawaiian Airlines Premier and Plumeria Lounges were closed. Rows one through ninewere completely full at 100% capacity. These islands offer a wealth of natural beauty and a perfect summer getaway for all types of travelers. Prices can vary from reasonable to expensive, depending on when and where you travel. The Bishop Museum is a favorite of both tourists and locals alike and features some of the best art and cultural artifacts from the past and present. What started as a family holiday reunion in Maui ended with a disappointing, but sensible, call: "Honey," my dad said. Its valid on all Alaska Airlines flights with no blackout dates. Travel + Leisure magazine may receive compensation for some links to products and services on this website. The Spirit of Aloha and Polynesian influences remain strong and are a major reason why people continue to want to visit the Hawaiian Islands. Masks are still strongly recommended for people over age 65, those with compromised immune systems or who care for people at risk of severe illness, and those unvaccinated for COVID-19. 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. Opt for a window seat or wherever you can be farthest away from other passengers. HoMa features stories, films, Art After Dark, and Family Funday Sundays for residents and visitors alike. Both of the islands only have 74 active cases at the moment. If you like the idea of an all-inclusive resort where your accommodations, meals and beverages and entertainment are bundled into one price, look to the Caribbean. 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From snorkeling to sunset cruises, history tours and coffee tastings, there is no shortage of things to do in Hawaii during COVID. Many five-star hotel clients also go to the Grand Hyatt Kauai on the south side of the island, says King. You will also visit the Dole pineapple plantation and end the day with a snorkel with native turtles, referred to as Hona, by the locals. Molokai is most definitely a destination off the beaten path. Travel along the Road to Hana to experience East Maui's scenic coastline, explore Haleakala - the world's largest dormant volcano - in the Upcountry and discover the former tribal battlegrounds. Seahorse farm tour. Young children unable to keep masks on and people withmedical conditions or disabilities whichpreventmask useare exempt. If you are concerned about the noise, dont be. It does share the beach with Disneys Aulani [opening November 1], which can be a good or bad thing, depending on the traveler. The luau had just reopened four days before I attended, and the new arrangement included reduced seating, resulting in a wait-list for the rest of December. TSA is also currently allowing passengers to bring up to 12 ounces of liquid hand sanitizerin carry-on bags. The memorial now stands as a historic attraction, welcoming millions of visitors a year. It is one of the most expensive islands simply because of the two Four Seasons properties, and there are rentals as well, says King. 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. A negative COVID-19 test result or a vaccination record document must be uploaded to the Safe Travel portal to obtain . Its important to monitor fares from both airlines since they offer great deals from their West Coast gateways. As I boarded the plane, I was given a hand sanitizer wipe and ushered to my seat. You will find many places along the way where it is easy to rent a paddleboard for the day. There are few places to stay, with just three hotels. Thats not a bad problem to have, but its just the type of problem TPG likes to help you solve. Super Wingsepisodes on his iPad kept him still and entertained the whole time. If splurging on a helicopter tour, choose a provider that builds in carbon off-setting in the pricing. Molokai Molokai is the least visited island of Hawaii. After the sun sets, sail the warm waters with the lights of Honolulu as your backdrop. King calls Oahu his least favorite simply because of the crowds, in pre-COVID times: Honolulus international airport has always welcomed many direct flights from mainland USA and Asia, and travelers tend to spend at least some time in Oahu. Even if you pass on Disneys Aulani, points-friendly resorts in Hawaii such as the Grand Hyatt Kauai offer kids clubs and have water slides, kid-focused activities and more than enough to do. I was relieved to see that the airport was not busy, which allowed us to check bags, proceed through thermal screening and complete the new travel form process at our own pace. The decision to travel during the COVID-19 pandemic is a personal one, and only you know what is right for your family. LESLIE HARVEY/THE POINTS GUY If you're open to waking up at 3 a.m., the Haleakala National Park sunrise summit should not be missed. 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. 4. Kids love this tour as well. 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. Terms apply to the offers listed on this page. If you are an early bird and a germaphobe (who isnt these days? The first thing to keep in mind is . Oahu Hidden Gems Tour + Snorkeling with Turtles This day tour departs from Maui, Big Island and Kauai. Temperatures remain . Although we were given a hand wipe by a flight attendant as we boarded, it was tiny and flimsy. On Christmas, I treated myself to a two-hour sunset cruise out of Ka'anapali Beach. The states capital, Honolulu, is also the site of the largest airport in the islands. Be sure to stop by hole number 17, a golfers favorite that is tucked into a natural amphitheater. The islands offer a variety of all-inclusive options; there arent any true all-inclusive properties in Hawaii. When people talk about Hawaii, they want to be in the resort, protected, and not urban. 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. Find the right card for you. before boarding to avoid removing our masks and moving around the airplane during the flight. Neibaur also loves to recommend the home rental options at the Four Seasons complex, especially for those seeking more privacy now. The Starbucks line at Honolulu International Airport. (Youll even find an included kids club at Aulani. I brought my own canister of Lysol wipes to disinfect our seats, tray tables and arm rests. Now No. All restrictions on intercounty travel have been lifted, meaning no pre-travel testing or quarantining is needed for travel between the Hawaiian islands. From the fields to your coffee cup. If youre staying in a house or villa, request that your provisions come from a local farmer or rancher, she said. There are a number of Caribbean islands that are on the U.S. Level 2 and 3 travel advisory lists. The best time to visit Hawaii's Big Island is between September and November. Travel to Hawaii during Covid-19: What you need to know before you go To show you whats possible, here are some fun things to experience with a family on Kauai and the Big Island. If youre lucky, you may even see a whale or dolphin dance by your boat. 25 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit During COVID - Yahoo Finance Hawaii is home to an abundance of cacao trees, and the island chain produces some of the tastiest chocolate in the world. (The one exception for now is the Big Island of Hawaii: If youre arriving at Kona airport, you must take a second test upon arrival in addition to showing a negative test result. Travel to Hawaii during Covid-19: What you need to know before you go Almost every Caribbean destination is open to travelers regardless of vaccination status. Tickets are booked beforehand and presented on your phone for a contactless entry. My guide picked me up at my hotel and asked a variety of health questions, in addition to the customary temperature check. Travelers must fill out the Hawaii Safe Travel program application form. See what a point or mile is worth with our appraisals of a loyalty programs currency, based on redemption values. Thats an incredible value especially if youre flying to Hawaii. Michael King, a travel advisor based in Kansas City with Largay Travel, has visited Hawaii more than 15 times and has spent a lot of time on the Big Island. Required fields are marked *. What if another passenger coughs on the plane? Next you visit Halona Blowhole, a natural geyser formed from melted and cooled lava. Heads up to all the stressed parents: Alcoholic beverages are temporarily unavailable for purchase on Hawaiian Airlines. Hawaiian Islands, Ranked | U.S. News Travel I was impressed to see hand sanitizer stations throughout the airport terminal. Check your bags and your expectations. Yamaguchi creates "Hawaii inspired Euro-Asian cuisine," as an homage to his family's roots. Published on April 21, 2021. The Caribbean has even more influences, from the areas original inhabitants to those brought from Africa against their will in the slave trade. My guide picked me. At that moment, I knew I had arrived in paradise. One of the most popular exhibits features an up-close look at Mt. Aerial landscape view of cliffs and green valley, Kauai, Hawaii. Literally, the very nature of Hawaii does not allow travelers to explore it completely by car or foot. Flights from hubs such as the New York City area, Chicago, Charlotte, Miami and others are plentiful especially to major islands. The resort was well-prepared, too: Extra masks and wipes were placed throughout the room, and technology made contactless service a breeze. Another great way to experience a Hawaiian sunset is on a stand-up paddleboard. You can read more about the airlines cleaning procedureshere. If youre into wildlife, you can see dolphins, sea turtles and stingrays in both Hawaii and the Caribbean. Improve earnings, maximize rewards and track progress toward dream trips. An expert guide rides along and provides the history of the island and its sights. This was not what I had expected or prepared for! Instead of zones, Hawaiian Airlines now boards passengers starting from the back of the plane. The most popular tours are still in effect, even during COVID, and there is much to see and do in this Pacific Island chain. Though they told me my results would come in 24 to 36 hours, I was informed I tested negative within seven hours. Speaking of temperature, the lows can dip below freezing at the summit, so you'll want to bundle up. Then we breezed through TSA and were at our gate within 20 minutes. Both destinations have fantastic, balmy weather year-round, palm trees and fragrant tropical flowers, white- or black-sand beaches, forests filled with hiking trails, plenty of offshore activities and a ton of ways to get there and stay with miles and points. Surfing is big in Hawaii, but its possible to surf in some parts of the Caribbean, too. Watching the sunset along Hanalei Bay on Kauai is also something special that everyone should experience at least once in a lifetime. 1. Travel + Leisure magazine may receive compensation for some links to products and services on this website. Both will reopen October 15. According to The Inter-American Development Bank tourism accounts for 34-48% of GDP for the countries like the Bahamas, Barbados, and Jamaica. The Honolulu Museum of Art houses some of the most influential pieces in the island chains history, and is a must-visit for any art lover. I've been living as a digital nomad for 8+ years. 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. Everywhere you look will be surrounded by unique plants such as giant ti plants, birds of paradise, torch ginger, bamboo, and split leaf philodendron. But unlike drivable U.S. destinations, which saw a surge in summer visitors, Hawaii's beaches remained quiet and . Editor's Note: Those who choose to travel are strongly encouraged to check local government restrictions, rules, and safety measures related to COVID-19 and take personal comfort levels and health conditions into consideration before departure. Travel to Hawaii during Covid-19: What you need to know before you go Emanating elegance, this hillside restaurant served a beautifully crafted seasonal prix-fixe menu highlighting the island's local ingredients. 12. Humble Market Kitchin is a chef Roy Yamaguchi restaurant. I opted for the ahi poke dish with rice chips as the prologue to my meal. Hawaii Covid Travels Between Islands: Simplified - iVisa.com You could use a Marriott up to 35,000-point certificate from the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card, for example, in both destinations. Most people stay on the Kona side, where there is more sunshine and all the top resorts. But the south side is much drier and home to Hawaiis version of the Grand Canyon, Waimea Canyon.. Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPGs editors and is not influenced by the card issuer. ", Kauai (No. Mine cost $125, and the closest facility was at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). It is also one of the most popular spots for a photoshoot. When the uniformed National Guard soldier checked Dukes temperature with a handheld thermometer, he wasnt nervous and instead flashed an excited shaka as we proceeded to the travel form line. 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. Sargassum Seaweed In Florida: 2023 Latest Updates And Photo Reports, This Island In Scotland Is Up For Sale And Cheaper Than Youd Think, L.A. Travelers To Reach Las Vegas In Record Time With New High-Speed Train, Digital Nomads Are Key For Portugals Development, Says Government, 7 Amazing Cities For Digital Nomads Where You Can Live For $1000 Per Month, Ecuador Launches Its Digital Nomad Visa Program To Attract Remote Workers, 26 Best Places To Visit in May 2023 in USA (TOP Picks! You'll earn 15 elite night credits each calendar year, and receive automatic Gold elite status. Children younger than 2 years old should not wear a mask. I'm from Slovakia and I've visited 75 countries but for now, taking a little break in Barcelona. I felt safest choosing the most COVID-friendly outdoor activities. Hawaii was the holy grail of vacation destinations for most U.S. residents even before it became a state in 1959. We watched the majestic sun rising below us with its multicolored hues, while one of the guides sang a Hawaiian song. Maui has numerous resorts, where travelers tend to go and spend time. One of the best meals I experienced was back at Wailea Beach Resort. The Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa. We hope that this year's honorees will inspire your own travels as you get back out into the world. The islands have changed and become more commercialized in some areas, but their beauty and ethos have remained. Stash some snacks. A dream vacation destination, here's how Maui,. Hawaiis remote location in the Pacific Ocean make it uniquely positioned to enjoy some of the most rare coral reefs, marine animals and flora in the world. Survey rules have always allowed readers to reflect on their travel experiences over a three-year period. Car break-ins are common in the Hawaiian Islands and some Caribbean islands have had problems with pushy vendors on public beaches. In the Caribbean, you'll have a better chance of seeing humpbacks (and dolphins) from mid-January to mid-March. You'll find a variety of projects like tree planting, self-directed beach cleanups, ocean reef preservation, and more. When you rent your kayak, expert guides will let you know whether conditions are favorable for kayaking that day. But there are also plenty of impressive hotels for those who prefer to maximize their resort time. If everything is not in order, prepare for a 10-day quarantine or to be sent back on the next flight. 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. Of course, right now, coronavirus safety precautions have temporarily changed travel to Hawaii and the Caribbean. Travelers who have been vaccinated in Hawaii will be able to skip testing or quarantine measures when hopping from island to island in just a few weeks, the state's . The latest On December 17, the Hawai'i Department of Health urged people on the islands to exercise caution as Covid-19 surged. You will find many places along the way where it is easy to rent a paddleboard for the day. Hawaiian Airlines cleans Neighbor Island flights between each trip, but sprays the aircraftwith hospital-grade disinfectants every night. If youre a fan of powder-soft white sand and crystal-clear blue water, the Caribbean may have more options. However, when we boarded the plane, I was immediately taken aback by how crowded the aircraft appeared. With beautiful ocean views, the restaurant exuded a safe, comfortable atmosphere. And as of November 20, the Four Seasons Resort Maui will reopen, with five Safe on Maui innovations, including 24/7 onsite medical care, a collaboration with PS at LAX (a private airport experience), pretravel COVID-19 testing resources, a virtual classroom for kids, and in-room air purifiers that clean the room every 30 minutes. 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. #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. One of our favorite luaus in Hawaii is the Smith Family Luau on Kauai, which has been a family-run business for decades. (Just try booking a flight to say, Aruba, during spring break. So well book the Four Seasons or the Kahala., (Note: The traditional flagship of Oahu, the Halekulani, is not opening until July 2021, as of now. In my opinion, the best one is the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, close to Kona airport, with great golf but not a terrific beach. Europeans from the English to the French to the Dutch to the Spanish all staked claim to certain islands, and their influence is also still felt in many places. Entry stipulations in the Caribbean vary by island nation. Americans can currently visit Hawaii, and fully-vaccinated travelers no longer need to get pre-tested or quarantine upon arrival. King has some well-earned opinions on where to stay in Maui. Which Hawaiian Island Should You Visit? - AFAR Your email address will not be published. The fares can be brutal.). Her work has been featured in. Meanwhile, Turks and Caicos requires all visitors 16 and older to submit proof of full vaccination before arrival. Carry cleaning supplies. The Caribbean may have more specifically kid-focused lodging options, but there are plenty of full-service resorts in Hawaii that also cater to kids. Divided into three floors, this museum tells the story of the world before humanity through a series of myths and stories. Lanai is great for a quiet trip or honeymoon because there isnt an urge to do a great deal., Statue of legendary surfer Duke Kahanamoku on the beach in Waikiki, Oahu. Island of Hawaii - Indoor social gatherings of more than 25 . If you truly want to discover the geology, history, wilderness, and other hidden wonders of the Garden Isle of Kaua, a helicopter tour may turn into the best adventure choice you can make when visiting Hawaii. USD $62.99 - 8 hours. For your safety it is highly recommended to stay on marked routes, read and follow all the warning signs, and stay out of restricted areas. If anyone on our team wouldnt recommend it to a friend or a family member, we wouldnt recommend it on The Points Guy either. Rebecca Ascher-Walsh is a New York City-based journalist and author who specializes in celebrity and lifestyle coverage.