{"id":9586,"date":"2010-08-23T08:00:49","date_gmt":"2010-08-23T13:00:49","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.orbitz.com\/blog\/?p=9586"},"modified":"2016-12-16T11:46:22","modified_gmt":"2016-12-16T17:46:22","slug":"beach-vacations-snorkel-sunbathe-windsurf-at-hawaiis-best-beaches","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.orbitz.com\/blog\/2010\/08\/beach-vacations-snorkel-sunbathe-windsurf-at-hawaiis-best-beaches\/","title":{"rendered":"Snorkel, sunbathe, windsurf at Hawaii\u2019s best beaches"},"content":{"rendered":"
\"Kahala<\/a>

Kahala Hotel and Resort Honolulu Hawaii.<\/p><\/div>\n

By Susan Johnston<\/em><\/p>\n

I used to think that all\u00a0beach vacations<\/a> were similar. There\u2019s sand, sun, water, and the inevitably awkward man sporting a too-small Speedo. But all that changed when I took my first\u00a0Hawaii vacation<\/a> a few years ago. I soon discovered that just as each island offers different flavors and scenery (where else but the Big Island can you find a sun-kissed beach and a snow-capped volcano within miles of each other?), each beach offers a little something different.<\/p>\n

Some have calm waves lapping at the shoreline for those who want the perfect photo opp, while others are more suited for active travelers searching for windsurfing or snorkeling. Read on for the best beaches for each kind of traveler.<\/p>\n

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\"Hanauma

Hanauma Bay, a popular snorkeling area. Credit: ewen and donabel.<\/p><\/div>\n

Savvy snorkeling
\n<\/strong>In a secluded cove in Oahu<\/a>, Hanauma Bay <\/strong>is widely considered one of the best beach vacations for snorkeling or scuba diving, especially for beginners who want to enjoy clear views of coral reefs and marine life in swallow waters. I wasn\u2019t adventurous enough to explore in deeper water, but I\u2019m told that the water just beyond the cove has colorful reefs that will appeal to more experienced snorkelers. It\u2019s also great for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring. For a luxurious beach vacation, check out the\u00a0Kahala Hotel & Resort<\/a> just outside of Waikiki. Budget-minded travelers will appreciate the\u00a0Miramar at Waikiki<\/a>, since it\u2019s on the city bus line that travels to Hanauma Bay.<\/p>\n

Wet and wild windsurfing
\n<\/strong>Experienced windsurfers flock to Ho\u2019okipa Beach Park<\/strong> in Paiai, Maui<\/a>, especially during winter beach vacations when the island\u2019s wind and waves are out in full force. Ho\u2019okipa also hosts professional competitions annually. While lifeguards are on duty daily, this beach is not recommended for swimming, in part because of the rocky shoreline.\u00a0Paia Inn Hotel<\/a> is close to three different beaches, includling Ho\u2019okipa, and features wireless internet, complimentary pastries and coffee in the morning and free parking.<\/p>\n

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\"Hapuna

Hapuna Beach. Credit: kretyen.<\/p><\/div>\n

Picture perfect relaxation:<\/strong> Hapuna Beach<\/strong> on the Big Island<\/a> is the quintessentially beautiful beach that you\u2019d see pictured on postcards: endless blue skies and fine white sand dotted with sunbathers and surfers. I had a blast learning to boogie board at Hapuna Beach; but the beach isn\u2019t protected from the open ocean, so caution is advised during high surf conditions. Adjacent to Hapuna Beach is the\u00a0Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel<\/a>, which offers majestic oceanfront views and lavish accommodations. Fans of\u00a0The Bachelorette<\/a> <\/em>may also recognize the hotel as the site of a season finale.<\/p>\n

Related resources: <\/strong><\/p>\n