Everybody who visits Hawaii has dreams of hitting the waves and experiencing the true surf of Hawaii.  As a renowned surf site, Hawaii’s islands features numerous coastlines perfect for soaking up some rays and catching that ever elusive wave.

The islands of Oahu and Maui feature some of the finest surfing available, and now you can learn to surf with the aide of surf lessons in Hawaii.  Read on to learn more about the reputable companies that will have you grabbing a board and hitting the waves:

• Surf Lessons by Hawaiian Surf Adventure: Located in Oahu, Hawaiian Surf Adventure offers exclusive beginner surf lessons by boat. Customers enjoy a scenic boat ride to Mauanalua Bay and learn to surf away from the crowds of Waikiki.  A 30-minute land lesson is given at the boat dock, and then you will be taken to an un-crowded surf break via shuttle boat. The boat is anchored next to the surf location where the one hour water lesson is given. You will then be brought back to the office via shuttle boat where you can review photos and videos of your surfing adventure. 

• Surfing Lessons at Pro Surf School Hawaii: Whether you are a first time surfer ready to catch your first wave or an experienced surfer looking to improve your skills, PRO SURF SCHOOL HAWAII offers a fun, safe and rewarding learning experience for everyone. Headquartered in Oahu, all lessons are taught outside of Waikiki, away from the dangerous crowds, at a secluded surf spot, in beginner-friendly slow rolling waves. 

• Surfing Lessons at Royal Hawaiian Surf Academy: First time surfer? No worries!  At Royal Hawaii Surf Academy, located in Maui, group lessons or semi-private surf lessons are available.  Both sessions are 2-hours long and consist of 20-30 minutes spent on the beach, where your instructor will go over the basic fundamentals necessary to get up properly on your surfboard and ride a wave, as well as the safe ways to do it. The rest of the time is spent in the ocean catching waves with your surf coach.  Each surfer will be provided with a rashguard (Lycra UV-Protective surf shirt), reef shoes, and their own board for the duration of the lesson.  Plus, at Royal Hawaiian Surf students are guaranteed to surf or the lesson is FREE.

Surf’s Up…Are you ready?

Halii Kai

Planning a vacation to the Big Island of Hawaii?  Find out all you need to know about some of the top Big Island Resorts:

• Hilo Hawaiian Hotel: Hilo's best full-service hotel offers outstanding views of the ocean or quaint Hilo Town framed by the backdrop of Mauna Kea. Located on Hilo Bay, Hilo Hawaiian Hotel is the perfect headquarters for exploring the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Enjoy incredible views of Mauna Kea, Hilo Town, and beautiful and historic Coconut Island during your stay. 
• Halii Kai at Waikoloa: Located at the world-famous Waikoloa Resort, Halii Kai offers you the opportunity to relax and stretch out in a well appointed two- or three-bedroom luxury villa and revel in the spacious comfort, inviting privacy, and stunning ocean views that surround you.  Their villas are beautifully situated on more than 30 acres, with breathtaking ocean, mountain, golf course and green views. All villas are luxuriously well appointed, living up to its 4 star rating.

• Royal Kona Resort: The Oceanfront Royal Kona Resort is an architectural marvel set on twelve oceanfront acres overlooking Kailua Bay in the heart of historic Kailua-Kona town on the Big Island of Hawaii. Each of the Resort’s spacious guestrooms features a large lanai with beautiful mountain vistas or magnificent ocean views.  The Royal Kona Resort features a unique oceanfront, split-level swimming pool, a private beach and saltwater swimming lagoon.

• Kona Bali Kai: Situated at the ocean’s edge, just off the beach, this resort offers a unique lodging experience in the sunniest spot on Hawaii’s Big Island. Kona Bali Kai has 154 units split between the ocean side (makai) and mountain side (mauka) of Alii Drive. Kona Bali Kai offers spacious studios, and one, two, and three-bedroom suites that feature affordable comfort.
• The Islands at Mauna Lani: If you’re a golf enthusiast, this resort is the place for you.  In a setting that rivals the finest country club, The Islands at Mauna Lani are situated along the famed fairways of Mauna Lani Golf Course.  These handsome townhomes are set within gardens of flowering plumeria, hibiscus and ginger and tranquil ponds.  The Islands at Mauna Lani offer the luxurious comforts of vacation living along with the amenities of a fine resort hotel including concierge and daily housekeeping services.

• Mauna Lani Point: Situated on the Kohala Coast’s most dramatic tropical oceanfront location, Mauna Lani Point is the only oceanfront luxury villa resort in the area.  Ideal for family and friends on vacation, Mauna Lani Point offers spacious condominiums surrounded by tropical luxury along with resort hotel services including daily maid, concierge and bell services. A private recreation center, with heated waterfall pool, whirlpool spa, sauna and gas grills, is available for guests.

Whale Watching in Hawaii is in full swing right now, with islands such as Maui, Kauai and the Big Island home to a stunning population of humpback whales.  From December to early May the humpback whales call Hawaii home. They travel an incredible 3,000 miles of ocean in less than two month’s time, migrating from the Gulf of Alaska to Hawaii.  The whales come to Hawaii for breeding and birthing in the islands’ warm and shallow waters.   

Many Hawaii vacationers revel in whale watching, which is why there are several outfits that take guests on Whale Watching Tours.  These excursions are highly recommended:

• Whale Watch Cruise by Body Glove Cruises:  Body Glove Cruises offers you the best opportunity to view and experience the migration of the humpback whales off the coast of the Big Island. Board their 65' state-of-the-art catamaran, where a light snack, sodas, juices and a full cash premium bar are available, while their naturalists astound you with facts about these.  Watch these gentle giants play, court and teach their young. Be sure to bring a camera as you’ll want to capture these moments. 

• Whale Watch Discovery Tour by Kauai Sea Tours: This two hour raft ride along Kauai’s southern shores gives visitors an up-close look at these stunning creatures.  Listen to and learn about the amazing Humpback whales and encounter these gentle giants and playful dolphins, sometimes eye to eye, as they delight you with their acrobatics. Soft Drinks and bottled water included. 

• Whale Watching from Lahaina by Pacific Whale Foundation: Maui’s #1 whale watch choice offers informative and fun two hour tours narrated by Pacific Whale Foundation's certified Marine Naturalists who explain and interpret the social behavior of humpback whales for you.  Travel on high-tech, ultra-stable power catamarans for a thrilling adventure along the scenic Maui coastline. Listen to whale songs through underwater hydrophones, watch mothers and calves interact, see males compete for females. As an added bonus, whale sightings are guaranteed (November 26 – May 15). If you do not see whales, you get a free ticket for a regular Pacific Whale Foundation Whale Watch Tour.

• Whale Watching from Maalaea by Pacific Whale Foundation: Departing from Maalaea Harbor, this excursion is designed exactly like the Lahaina Whale Watching Tour but cruises to Maalaea Bay for a different perspective.  Maalaea Bay is a popular spot for whales during their breeding season, creating a great destination for visitors who want to get the best whale watching views.  As an added bonus, whale sightings are guaranteed (November 26 – May 15). If you do not see whales, you get a free ticket for a regular Pacific Whale Foundation Whale Watch Tour.

Ready to dive into life under the sea?  Head out for a Molokini snorkeling trip in Maui, Hawaii for an excursion featuring some of the best snorkeling in the world.  In fact, the snorkeling and sea life in and around Molokini is so superb is listed as one of the top 10 dive spots in the world. 

Molokini is a crescent-shaped, partially submerged volcanic crater teeming with sea life, with over 250 species of fish inhabiting the area. The crater houses a lush reef with excellent visibility as deep as 150 feet, plus Molokini's crescent shape protects divers from waves and the channel's powerful currents.  ReserveHawaii offers a variety of Molokini snorkel trips to choose from, including tours to Turtle Arches and Lanai.

The most popular Molokini Snorkeling Tours include:

·         Molokini & Turtle Arches Morning SnorkelCruise

·         Molokini & Lanai Snorkel Cruise

·         Molokini Snorkel Trip Aboard the Four Winds II

If you’re curious about Turtle Arches, there is a combo tour available that takes visitors to Molokini and Turtle Arches.  Turtle Arches is a dazzling reef off Maui’s south coast known for its underwater lava arches and large resident population of green sea turtles.  On an excursion to this locale you’ll get to see the turtle play and even swim with them.  It’s a once in a lifetime experience and a highlight of any Maui vacation.

Lanai is the smallest inhabited island in Hawaii and is largely undeveloped.  It is home to Hulopoe Bay, a marine preserve with pearl white beaches and crystal blue waters.  On a snorkeling trip off the coast of Lanai, you’re sure to see wild spinner, spotted, and bottlenose dolphins.

Travelers looking for affordable lodging on the scenic island of Oahu need to look no further than ReserveHawaii.com. With six different properties offering Waikiki beachfront accommodations, we can offer the guaranteed lowest rates saving you money on your next Hawaii vacation. Some of the top bargain hotels in Oahu include:

1. Maile Sky Court Hotel
The Maile Sky Court Hotel is located on beautiful Waikiki Beach in Honolulu. Travelers staying at The Maile Sky Court Hotel will enjoy upgraded amenities, a superb location and exceptional customer service at budget-conscious rates. Six room types are available at ReserveHawaii.com, including options featuring ocean views. Plus, ocean view rooms are available for less than $100 a night.

2. Waikiki Gateway Hotel
Feel the aloha spirit at Waikiki Gateway Hotel, featuring an inviting atmosphere, friendly customer service and comfortable yet affordable hotel rooms for your Oahu vacation. There are four room types available, include those with ocean views and deluxe upgrades. Many of the hotel guestrooms have panoramic Waikiki and ocean views. Rates average around $115 a night.

3. Miramar at Waikiki
This property is one of Oahu’s best values. Located only one block from the beach, the Miramar at Waikiki offers an on-site restaurant and lounge, upgraded in-room amenities like a flat screen TV and fantastic location surrounded by Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay and the Ala Moana Shopping Center. There are a total of seven room types available, with rates as low as $98 a night.

4. Waikiki Resort Hotel
Located just steps from the white sands of Waikiki Beach, the Waikiki Resort Hotel offers moderate prices on contemporary guest rooms. The resort features upgraded in-room and hotel amenities, including LCD TV’s and high speed internet access. With three room types available at an average price of $150 or less, it’s a great choice for Hawaii vacationers.

Maui is known as the “Magic Isle of Hawaii,” and for good reason. The stunning landscape, golden beaches and variety of Hawaii activities makes it a magical place for a vacation. Plus, there are great places to stay, like Lahaina Shores Beach Resort, that offer affordable oceanfront condominiums in West Maui.

When you visit this Hawaiian Island, you’ll want to attend a Maui luau as they feature native Hawaiians telling the story of their culture through music, storytelling, and dance while you dine of an authentic Hawaiian feast. One popular choice is the Drums of the Pacific Luau, showcasing a cast of 18 dancers and musicians performing the songs and dances of their Polynesian ancestors from throughout the South Pacific including a thrilling Fire Knife Dance finale. Another luau option is the Te Au Moana Luau which shares the ancestral telling of the people of Maui and the Pacific through lavish songs and dances.

If you’re looking for adventure on your Maui vacation, look no further as the Pacific Whale Foundation offers a variety of snorkel cruises that provide a gorgeous way to see life under the sea. Choose from a Molokini and Turtle Arches Snorkel Morning Cruise, Molokini and Lanai Snorkel Cruise or a Molokini Snorkel Trip Aboard the Four Winds II. All of the options are a great choice as Molokini is a world class snorkeling environment inside the protective ring of an ancient volcanic crater, where over 250 marine species thrive in crystal-clear Hawaii waters.

For an aerial view of Maui’s stunning scenery, check out Alex Air Helicopter Tours. They offer “Doors Off” excursions featuring West Maui's beautiful rugged coastline, lush valleys and cascading waterfalls. Reserve your tour in advance to save almost $11 per ticket.

Whatever you decide to do on your Hawaii vacation, you’re sure to make memories that will last a lifetime.

A vacation in Oahu encompasses a variety of things to do and places to see. Check out these Five Things to do While Staying in Oahu for exciting ideas for your next Hawaii vacation.

1. Pearl Harbor

A visit to Oahu isn’t complete without touring Pearl Harbor. From the many exhibits of authentic war relics to the infamous battleships located here, A Day at Pearl Harbor is a moving and memorable experience for any Honolulu visitor. Some of the sites you’ll see on your tour include the USS Arizona Memorial, USS Bowfin Submarine, USS Missouri Battleship and the Pacific Aviation Museum.

2. Polynesian Cultural Center

The expansive Polynesian Cultural Center offers several different ways to experience Polynesian Culture. Explore and experience eight island villages and exhibits representing New Zealand, Fiji, Hawaii, Samoa, Marquesas, Rapa Nui, Tonga and Tahiti. Learn firsthand from the native peoples of each island with interactive demonstrations that teach you the games, fun and friendship of Polynesia. Plus, enjoy the exciting Rainbows of Paradise canoe pageant showcasing the songs and dances of each island culture on the Center’s winding lagoon.

3. Surf Lessons
Hawaiian Surf Adventures and Pro Surf School Hawaii are two of the most reputable surfing companies in Hawaii, geared towards teaching novices and pros alike. You can learn to surf, body board or standup paddle on the beautiful shores of Oahu. What better place to learn to ride a wave?

4. Helicopter Tours
Blue Hawaiian Helicopter Tours offer a fantastic way to get an aerial view of Hawaii’s breathtaking landscape. Experience the phenomenal scenery of this amazing Island's hidden rainforests, lush valleys, and beaches. You'll glide over the vivid turquoise coral reefs of Waikiki, look down into the extinct volcano of Diamond Head, view crescent-shaped Hanauma Bay, white-sand Waimanalo beach, Chinaman's Hat and the beautiful coral formations in Kaneohe Bay, among many other gorgeous sights.

5. Submarine Adventure
Atlantis Adventures provides visitors with a unique way to experience Oahu’s underwater world. The Atlantis Waikiki dive site is home to many Hawaiian fishes, coral, and turtles. Known for its quality and safety, Atlantis is an eye-opening experience that takes you beyond the classroom as you learn about coral, reef life and submersibles while visiting sunken shipwrecks, airplane and other artificial reefs.

While enjoying all of these awesome attractions and fun family activities, you’ll need a convenient and comfortable place to stay. Why not choose the Maile Sky Court Hotel? Towering above the magnificent Waikiki Coast, the Maile Sky Court Waikiki is a high-rise hotel at the western end of Waikiki, Oahu. This affordable Honolulu hotel is an exceptional value for travelers seeking comfortable accommodations steps from the golden sands and sparkling surf of Waikiki Beach.