Big Island Hawaii, Big Waves, Big Fun

August 29th, 2010

There is really no end to the excitement you can find on Big Island Hawaii. From the best surfing in the world to the most extravagantly beautiful golf courses you really will have a hard time leaving this island once your vacation is over.

World’s Best Golf Courses

Do your best to concentrate on your swing as opposed to the incredible beauty you are surrounded by. It will not be an easy task. But if you think you can manage to block out the sedating crash of the waves just beyond the bunker, or the clear blue water of the bay than go ahead and take your shot. It may indeed take you a few badly shot holes to get used to the wealth of beauty available here and begin to focus on your game. And once you do, and if you are an avid golfer, you will realize that this may be the game of your life.

The “Golf Capital of Hawaii” is what Big Island has to offer their visitors as some of the best known courses lay right here on this serene paradise. Play the Jack Nicklaus designed Hualalai Golf Course along the Kolhala Coast or wend on down to the Robert Trent Jones Sr courses at Mauna Kea. If that is not enough for the golf lover in you than you may also visit the Ocean Course and Alii Mountain Course.

Surfing Big Island – The Sport of Kings

You will not find another place on earth where the surfing is this incredible. Not to mention that surfing in crystal clear water is a new experience for a lot of surfers entirely. If you do not surf than just watching this incredible sport from the shore will be a delightful experience as well.

With many of the beaches on Hawaii only recommended for very experienced surfers, the draw of the big kahuna wave rest firmly on this island paradise. However there are some great spots ideal for the beginner surfer as well. It is fair to say that Big Island Hawaii has the surfer of any and all experience levels covered.

With experienced instructors nearby to help first timers to the areas with safe breaks, these beginner lessons can last up to two hours, but give you the experience you need to surf with your family or partner. So come and experience for yourself and your vacation how it feels to surf the sport of kings.

Many Activities to Enjoy on Big Island

Even if you came with nothing in mind for Big Islands golf courses or to enjoy the sport of kings, than you will be pleased with all that this lovely island paradise has to offer. From swimming with the manta rays or watching the lava reach the sea this island offers many romantic getaways for the newly married or romantic couple in all of us. Do not forget to see the black sand beaches and the other many natural wonders that Big Island Hawaii has in abundance.

Kauai Hawaii

August 24th, 2010

Kauai Hawaii features many aspects that will be pleasing to a large variety of travelers. This lush garden paradise can cater to the young and romantic or a family of well traveled hikers looking to add to their collection of breathtaking scenery visited. You will not want to leave your camera behind while traversing any of the natural beauty that is the garden island of Kauai Hawaii. Kauai offers over 63 readily accessible beaches along with 90 miles of pristine white sandy shorelines. Many different aspects of this island draw travelers from near and far.

Kauai Hawaii Activities
•    Mountain Biking in the Waimea Canyon offers a unique look at this tropical islands flora and fauna as well as an up-close and personal look at all of the natural beauty that this island has to offer.
•    Hopping a helicopter to hover over the craggy cliffs and awe inspiring waterfalls of the Napali Coast is a temptation hard to dismiss. A short copter launch is all it will take to have you quickly appreciating this unusual and unique view of this lovely garden island.
•    Picnicking on Poipu Beach’s Green Lawn and then wading into its pristine and sandy tide-pools can offer the romantic experience you and your loved one may have been searching for.
•    Surf or Swim the famous Hanalei Bay solo for a peaceful experience or with family and friends to help build some incredible and scenic memories.
•    Kipu Falls Zipline Adventures allow you to take on a half day or full day of zip line adventures that include hiking, swimming and zip lining to several close by and private destinations.
•    Smiths Tropical Paradise Luau is absolutely one of the most beautiful luaus in this lush tropical garden setting perched along the Wailua River. This luau allows you to feast heartily on their buffet while enjoying an incredible international pageant.
•    Kauai Air Tour sponsors powered hang gliding tours over the island of Kauai that offers a beautiful overhead view of this well known Garden Isle.
Some of Kauai’s destinations are more famous than others but often the less famous and more quaintly private is preferred. Kauai caters to both taste in vacation resort areas and has several locations around the island for preferred traveling.

Na Pali Coast
The Na Pali coast is located on the North Shore of Kauai. The expansive Napali coast ranges fifteen miles over this rugged craggy coastline. The paths available allow a visitor to traverse over this breathtaking land among velvety green cliffs that can seemingly tower into the sky along with tall cascading waterfalls that plunge deep into Na Pali’s narrow valleys.

Waimea Canyon
Waimea Canyon is located on the west side of the island of Kauai Hawaii and is home to a thirty five hundred foot deep canyon that provides some truly incredible panoramas and otherwise breathtaking views of the mountainsides, valleys and significant peaks. This landmark is a must see for visitors traveling this area for the first time.

You can expect the feel of untouched land while remaining in touch with the modern world via high speed internet access as well as crystal clear mobile communications. On Kauai Hawaii lies an island paradise just waiting to show you all that it has to offer.

A Little Bit of Eden in Kauai Hawaii

August 12th, 2010

This bit of paradise so full of unspoiled and natural beauty can truly be a little bit of heaven for those who thoroughly enjoy spending their vacation time viewing all that nature in its best has to offer. With ultra rare tropical flowers and many miles of pristine white sandy beaches the island of Kauai Hawaii can be the perfect vacation spot for newlywed couples who enjoy the outdoors to vacationing families who desire to give their loved ones breathtaking memories for a lifetime.

Nature Lovers Paradise in Kauai

The South Shore or Poipu, is absolutely the most famous part of the island as a land that is rich in posh resorts and beautiful white sandy beaches cover the area. Much of the islands shopping, dining and accommodations can be found on the South Shore of Kauai Hawaii. Poipu Beach offers swimming in calm and crystal clear waters as well as some snorkeling near interesting points in the area.

On the North Shore is Hanalei Bay and Hanalei Town. The ultimate in perfect romantic getaways, Hanalei Bay may be the perfect destination for you and your loved one. Framed by a wide and long half moon of pristine sandy beach, this shoreline offers beautiful scenery as well as shorelines calm enough for peaceful swim. Hanalei Town is an area of quiet and rural communities. This town of cozy and quaint cottages only adds to the tranquility of Kauai Hawaii and its overall atmosphere of a tiny island paradise.

The Na Pali coast is the perfect destination for anyone who loves a great hike. With craggy 4,000 foot cliffs that overlook the great blue Pacific ocean along with a string of caves, lava tubes as well as pristine white beaches this area of Kauai Hawaii is a must see. However, most of the Na Pali area is inaccessible by any means but helicopter. Be sure to take your camera on this trip to capture these truly breathtaking views.

What Makes Kauai Hawaii Different?

Kauai offers the ultimate in relaxing and soothing atmospheres that are truly unforgettable. An intimate getaway or the perfect honeymoon spot are available here on land relatively untouched for the last one thousand years.

Breathtaking Natural Beauty

Many famous movies have been filmed on this island as when Hollywood directors look for their own personal Eden for filmmaking, Kauai hits the top of the list again and again. This land is free of high rise structures and the law requires no building to be taller than a coconut palm. This beautiful land is surrounded by spectacularly tall waterfalls, rare and exotic foliage and small rural towns.

For Love of the Great Outdoors

Kauai Hawaii is the best choice in Hawaiian Islands if you want to venture into the great outdoors to see what this tropical haven has to offer. Helicopter rides above some of the most gorgeous natural landscaping on earth and kayaking along the lovely Na Pali Coast will give you memories that will last you an lifetime.

There is much more to see and do in Kauai Hawaii so planning your trip ahead of time may save you a lot of time and confusion once you land on the island. With so many outdoor activities you will want the assistance of a great site like the Kauai Visitors Bureau can you get started in the right direction.

San Diego

May 31st, 2010

Great weather, stunning beaches and a rich heritage- San Diego has everything that a vacationer could possibly want!

The climate is great during most parts of the year, the annual average being around 75 degrees Fahrenheit! What’s more, it’s an incredible place to visit whether you are planning a family holiday or a romantic and fun vacation for two.

If you are traveling with your children in tow, including the following places in your itinerary would be a good idea-

Belmont Park- This is a sea side amusement park with some really interesting rides that are bound to make your children jump with delight.

Legoland- If your children enjoy or used to love playing with Lego building blocks, this is one theme park they would really enjoy visiting! The park boasts of several joyrides and elaborate Lego structures.

Maritime Museum- Both you and your kids will enjoy visiting this museum thanks to is amazing collection of marine vehicles, including an attack submarine.

Sea World- This is a huge aquarium that doesn’t just promise close and personal sessions with marine animals, but also has animal shows and several fun rides to offer!

The Balboa Park- The park is full of museums that you and your family will definitely enjoy visiting. The most popular ones are-Mingei International Museum (folk art museum), San Diego Air and Space Museum, San Diego Automotive Museum, San Diego Natural History museum and San Diego Zoo.

If you are planning a romantic and fun vacation on the other hand, your itinerary should include- Imperial Beach, Ocean Beach, Pacific Beach and Mission Beach. While most San Diego beaches offer good surfing opportunities, Mission Bay is the place to go to for those who enjoy sailing. Wreck alley is great for Scuba Diving. For Kayaking Mission Bay, Sunset Beach, Kearny Mesa are great places.

The most recommended shopping places in San Diego are- Fashion Valley, Westfield Mission Valley in Mission Valley,  Horton Plaza in Downtown and Westfield UTC near La Jolla.

As far as accommodation goes, your best option would be staying at San Diego Vacation Rentals.

Honolulu, Hawaii

May 25th, 2010

Honolulu offers the best of Hawaii- from stunning beaches to historical museums and a glitzy nightlife. If you are short of time but still want to experience at lest a bit of everything that Hawaii has to offer, then Honolulu is the place you should head to!

Since Honolulu is the capital as well as the most favored entry point for Hawaii, most people assume that finding a quiet beach in the island would be difficult. The fact is that if you know the right places, you can find just the right beach to suit your mood.

The Waikiki beach is one of the most popular tourist spots in Honolulu and is predictably crowded and colorful. The Ala Moana Park, has a quiet sandy beach usually visited by families, the Hanauma Bay set in the crater of an extinct volcano is another quiet but gorgeous beach. The Hanauma Bay in fact is quite well known for its marine life as well and is therefore a popular snorkeling and scuba diving spot. If you are in the mood for surfing, however, you should head to the nearby Makapu’u beach.

Apart from beaches, Honolulu also boasts of several historical places, the following being the most recommended-

  • Pearl Harbor (Western Honolulu) – Every American is familiar with the history of Pearl Harbor. The harbor still functions as a navy base and is home to several memorials built in the honor of those who fell to the Japanese strikes in 1941 that changed the course of World War II. The most famous of these memorials is the one built over the sunken hull of the USS Arizona battleship.
  • The USS Bowfin- Located right next to the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center is the USS Bowfin- a World War II submarine that is open to visitors.
  • Pacific Aviation Museum (Ford Island)-Situated in the middle of the harbor is the Pacific Aviation Museum that houses several World War II air planes.
  • The Bishop Museum (Western Honolulu) – The museum houses an excellent collection of Hawaiian artifacts and is also home to a planetarium and natural history hall.
  • Iolani Palace- The stunning palace was the official residence of the last two monarchs of the islands of Hawaii.

While these beaches and museum are not to be missed don’t forget to include the following scenic spots in your Honolulu itinerary-

  • The Diamond Head- The ancient volcanic crater offers breathtaking views of the city.
  • Nu’uana Pali Lookout- The scenic lookout point located between two high cliffs provides a stunning view of Windward Oahu.
  • Halona Blowhole- The blowhole is an underwater cave with a hole in the top from where the ocean water blasts out. The best viewing point for the Halona Blowhole is the parking area overlooking it.

Once you are done with sun bathing, surfing, swimming and sigh seeing, make sure you take out sometime to experience Honolulu’s many shopping and eating delights.

As far as accommodation goes staying in one the several comfortable yet affordable Honolulu Vacation Rentals would be a good idea.

Hilo, Hawaii

May 25th, 2010

If you want to explore the eastern parts or Hawaii, Hilo (Big Island) would prove to be the best starting point. The easiest and fastest way to reach Hilo is through one of the inter-island airlines. Alternately, you may take a leisurely cruise to the island, if you have the time and inclination for it.
Hilo is blessed with both natural beauty and historical sites, so you can take your pick while planning your itinerary. Most people who have visited the stunning tourist destination recommend the following spots-

  • The Rainbow falls- The best time to visit these gorgeous falls is in the morning. True to their name you can see the beautiful rainbow colored mist formed by its cascading white waters.
  • The Naha Stone- The stone has a very fascinating tale surrounding it. According to ancient Hawaiian legend only a man who could move the 5,000 pound stone would be the one to unite the islands of Hawaii. The great Kamehameha moved and even lifted the stone when he was merely 14 and then went on to fulfill the prophecy.
  • Lili’uokalani Gardens (Banyan Drive)- The stunning Japanese garden was built in the early 20th century in honor of the Japanese immigrant who developed the old Waikea sugar plantation and was named after the Hawaii’s then reigning Queen.
  • Four Mile- This is a large salt water swimming pool created by a natural reef and is perfect for a day out with family and friends.
  • The Pacific Tsunami Museum- Here you can learn all about the lethal waves that have destroyed Hilo several times.
  • The Chase Gallery- If you are keen on exploring the local art scene, you will definitely enjoy a visit to the Chase gallery.
  • Apart from its tourist attractions, Hilo is also famous for its locally made ice-cream. It is easily available in the downtown area, so make sure you try some.

As far as accommodation goes, looking for Hilo Vacation Rentals that suit your requirements and budget would be a good idea.

Lake Tahoe Vacation Rentals

May 23rd, 2010

Irrespective of the season you are planning you vacation in, Lake Tahoe will prove to be an excellent destination!
In summers you can have blast playing golf in one of its several world class courses, hike through its gorgeous nature trails or simply while away the day swimming and boating in the area’s languid waters.
For camping, boating and hiking Emerald Bay State Park and Bliss State Park are good options. For sun bathing and swimming you can take your pick from among the following beaches-
• Sand Harbor, Northeast shore.
• Emerald Bay, West shore, south of Homewood on 89.
• Chamber’s Landing, West shore
• Tahoe City, North shore, in Tahoe City.
• Meek’s Bay, West shore

In winters Lake Tahoe turns into a skiers’ paradise! The region has skiing grounds to suit enthusiasts with different proficiency levels. Snowboarding, snow surfing and snowmobiling opportunities in the area, serve as icing on the delicious winter sport cake that Lake Tahoe offers!
Some of the most popular skiing areas in the region are- Alpine Meadows, Homewood, Squaw Valley Heavenly, Kirkwood, and Sierra at Tahoe, etc. If you are staying somewhere close to the Reno border, visiting Diamond Peak and Mount Rose skiing resorts may be more convenient for you.
Gambling is also a popular activity in Lake Tahoe. The town boasts of some excellent casinos where tourists can flirt with lady luck.
Night life and restaurants in the regions are another major tourist attraction. The Tahoe City and Squaw Valley are home to several interesting bars and restaurants. Some of the most recommended ones are- Pierce Street Annex, Pete and Peter’s and Garwood’s in Tahoe city, Graham’s, Plump Jack and Auld Dubliner in Squaw Valley.
As far accommodation goes the most affordable and comfortable option would be booking yourself into one of the several Lake Tahoe Vacation Rentals.

Kona Vacation Rentals

May 23rd, 2010

Kona is one of the most popular tourist destination in Big Island (Hawaii) and why not? After all it is the place to be for water sports and is even blessed with breathtaking natural beauty.

From sea rafting to surfing, snorkeling and scuba diving, you can experience every kind of thrill that the ocean has to offer under trained instructors, in Kona. The local beach park Kahaluu is a popular snorkeling destination, for surfing and other water sports

Kona is also very well known for its coffee, so make sure you visit one of its several coffee plantations and don’t forget to carry a few packets 100% pure Kona coffee home.

For sight seeing, the following is the list of places that most travelers recommend-

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park- The most fascinating aspect of the park is that you can witness active lava flow here. Kilauea Volcano has erupted lava almost continuously from its east rift zone since 1983. However the level of volcano activity varies from time to time, so if you want to make sure that you get to see some action you should check with the Hawaii Volcano Observatory before visiting the park. Depending upon the volcanic activity you may also be able to see active lava flow as you drive down the chain of craters road in the park. Another must see feature of the park is the Thurston Lava tube. The 400ft tube was formed by lava some 400-500 years ago. To enter the tube you must take permission from the park headquarters.

Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park- the Park contains several archeological features (including three ancient fish ponds), hiking trails as well as camping grounds.
Puuhonua o Honaunau-The serene national park is the site of an ancient refuge to people who broke a kapu law (one of the ancient laws) fled to, in order to avoid certain death. The park is today home to several archeological sites including, temple platforms, sledding tracks, royal fishponds and quite a few coastal village sites. The park also contains a reconstruction of the Hale O Keawe temple, originally built by the Kona chief called chief named Kanuha.

With so many fascinating and exhilarating options, a Kona vacation will certainly not disappoint you. Excited already? Then start looking for Kona Vacation Rentals right away!

Hot Springs City Arkansas

April 27th, 2010

The best thing about Hot Springs resort town in Arkansas is that you can you can have all kinds of holiday experiences here, whether it is adrenaline pumping adventure sports, relaxing spa sessions or romantic walks down breathtaking nature trails, Hot springs has something to offer to all kinds of vacationers.

Most people who have been to Hot springs recommend exploring it on foot. It can be tiring, but then again what are spas for? You can always book yourself for a relaxing foot or body massage in one of hot springs world class spas when you get tired of exploring the gorgeous resort town.

Apart from scenic nature trails, the town also boasts of several exhilarating sports like- crystal hunting, horseback riding , fishing, hiking, golf, camping and water sports.

As far as sight seeing is concerned, two of the most popular tourist spots in Hot springs are the- Hot springs National Park and Thorncrown Chapel.

The Hot springs National Park spread over 6,000 acres is the place to go to if you want to experience the magic of the town’s natural springs and geysers. In fact while you are here don’t forget to explore the historic bathhouses that the national park is home to. These bathhouses erected over a century ago, used to cater to wealthy businessmen from around the country who used to visit hot springs to cure themselves of various ailments with its ‘miracle’ waters. We know today that the springs are rich in minerals but till over a couple of centuries ago, these mineral rich waters were believed to have several healing properties.

Thorncrown Chapel has been hailed as one of the finest religious spaces of modern times with its awe- inspiring wooden structure and around 425 windows made with almost 6,000 square feet of glass!

Other attractions of the gorgeous town include: Oaklawn Park racing and gaming, Magic Springs theme park, Garvan Woodland Gardens and the Mid-America Science Museum.

Gulf Shores Alabama

April 26th, 2010

If you are planning to visit Gulf Shores, you can rest assured that you won’t have to endure even a moment of boredom! Lounge around the beach, go parasailing, fishing, boating, swimming or take a sight seeing tour.

The Bon Secour National Wildlife refuge is an extremely popular Gulf Shores tourist spot. The natural juxtaposition of sand dunes with woodlands makes the landscape of this wildlife refuge absolutely breathtaking. The refuge plays host to 370 species of birds during the migratory season. Visitors may also spot nesting sea turtles as well as the endangered Alabama Beach mouse.

The Fort Morgan Historic site is another must see tourist spot in Gulf Shores. The fort was completed in 1834 and it was used as a Military base in World War I. Several heavy artillery crews were trained here to serve in France.

If you are traveling with your children in tow you may also want to visit the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. The zoo is home to several exotic animals and houses a petting zoo within its premises as well. It’s open from 9am-4pm everyday.

Waterville USA is another great place to take your children to; It’s an excellent family re-creation center complete with water slides, pools, a go-kart track, a miniature golf as well as several kid rides.

Of course when you are visiting Gulf Shores, you would want to spend most of you time on its gorgeous beaches. The two most popular beaches recommended by Gulf Shore travelers are:

• Gulf Shores Public Beach- This beach is good for a day out with your family. The beach owes its popularity the bars and restaurants located around it.
• Gulf State Park- This beach has limited facilities but is a good option if you value your peace and solitude.

Travelers also enjoy staying at Gulf Shores because of its proximity to several other tourist hot spots like Mobile Bay, Montgomery, New Orleans, etc. For accommodation Gulf Shore Vacation rentals would be your best option.