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Book online or call
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Book online or call
1-800-504-3248 (toll free)
Come see Hawaii's amazing skyscrapers
Laid-back beaches, gracious residents, year-round Speedo weather, men with flowers in their hair -- what could be more appealing to the gay traveler than the mythical isles of the 50th state?
Somewhat isolated from the U.S. mainland, the overall gay scene in Hawaii may be on a smaller scale than other American states, but the overt friendliness of the locals and the easy-going island lifestyle make up for it. And gay-popular beaches, gay lodging, and gay social groups can be found on nearly every one of the islands.
Almost 80 percent of the state's population lives on the island of Oahu, traditionally called "The Gathering Place." It's here in dynamic Honolulu that you'll find most of the state's gay infrastructure, from open-air gay bars to homo-popular beaches to queer sports clubs and an all-gay hotel (The Cabana at Waikiki). There's even a rocking Gay & Lesbian Cultural Festival held here every May.
Maui is the second-most-visited island, and although there's not much in terms of gay nightlife, the island is home to a large gay community. It's centered in the town of Kihei, with a smattering of queers in the upcountry area on the slopes of the Haleakala volcano. The island also is home to more than one same-sex wedding service.
The Big Island of Hawaii is larger than all the other islands combined, and it's an entire journey in itself. The island's arid, desert west coast (the principal town is Kailua-Kona) and the lush, wet east coast (the main town of Hilo) are as different as day and night.
Small and compact, Kauai often ranks as visitors' favorite, with its dramatic canyon scenery and old-time atmosphere. The gay community on the island is well-organized, and it holds a large monthly gay bonfire and hot dog roast on Kealia Beach.
Among the less-populated islands, rural Molokai has a high percentage of islanders with Hawaiian blood, and it is known for its culture of "mahu" or cross-dressing men. Tiny Lanai, once solely owned by Dole to grow pineapples, is now a playground for wealthy travelers who enjoy two lavish resorts.
Leave it to the ethnically diverse, famously tolerant state of Hawaii to launch the same-sex marriage movement in the United States. Although gay marriage ultimately didn't pass in the Aloha State, Hawaii remains a top destination for honeymooning couples -- gay or straight -- worldwide.
1. Waves around the islands can be treacherous from November through February, particularly on the northern and eastern shores. Use caution when swimming, kayaking or surfing.
2. Going naked on any beach in Hawaii is technically illegal, regardless of the fact that there are de facto nude beaches on every island and police usually turn a blind eye. All beaches in Hawaii are public.
3. There are few pure-blooded Hawaiians left in Hawaii, so don't assume anyone's ethnicity just because he or she may look like an "islander."
4. When making phone calls between the islands, you always need to use the area code (808). But you don't need it when dialing numbers on the same island, since calls are toll-free.
5. "Island time" allows for long chats, slow driving and much more leisurely service than you expect on the mainland. Be patient and learn to relax.
6. Never say "back in the States." Hawaii is part of the United States, and everyone takes offense when you suggest otherwise.
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CST 2063530-50;
Hawaii TAR-5627;
Iowa 644;
Nevada 2003-0387;
Washington 602-102-724
