First timer advice - 1st week of June

Question

First time visitors to Hawaii. We are a late 60s couple from NZ. We have 6 nights in Hawaii in the first week of June on our way to NYC. I’ve been looking through this forum to get ideas – now so confused.

I’m thinking of 2 nights in Honolulu, mainly for hubbie who is interested in the WW2 memorials and armed forces history. Then possibly Maui or Waikiki for 4 nights as a taster?

If we enjoy this visit, it, we will probably return for a longer visit, so we don’t need to try to ‘do it all’ this time. We want to get a feel for the atmosphere and possibly a little beginner snorkelling. Love scenic drives, walks on the beach, sunsets and local culture/history. Not into shopping or food experiences.

We are not foodies at all, happy to eat light and on a budget and put that money towards experiences. I prefer accommodation with light cooking facilities, a small fridge is a must for hubbie’s medication. I love to swim, so accommodation with a pool will be great.

I’d appreciate your advice on where to stay and some self-catering accommodation options. There seem to be so many – overwhelming for a first-timer.

TIA.

Answer

It's wonderful that you're planning your first trip to Hawaii! With 6 nights, it's a good idea to balance sightseeing with relaxation to get a feel for the islands without overwhelming yourselves.

Starting with Honolulu for 2 nights is a great choice, especially if your husband is interested in WW2 memorials and armed forces history. Honolulu is home to Pearl Harbor, which is a must-see for anyone interested in history. The Pearl Harbor National Memorial, including the USS Arizona Memorial, is deeply moving and educational. You can also explore the Battleship Missouri, which played a significant role in WW2, and the Pacific Aviation Museum. These historical sites will give you a good understanding of Hawaii’s role during the war.

For the remaining 4 nights, both Maui and Waikiki (Oahu) offer great experiences, but they differ in atmosphere. Since you're interested in scenic drives, beaches, and local culture, Maui might be a good option to explore its natural beauty, relaxed pace, and a bit of history. However, Oahu (with Waikiki) has more of a city feel, though it still offers beautiful beaches and cultural sites. Since you’re looking for a “taster,” Maui would offer a peaceful retreat with easy access to nature and some beginner-friendly snorkeling opportunities.

For accommodations, you’ll likely want somewhere self-catering with a pool, especially for your swimming preferences and your husband’s medication needs. Here's a list of some self-catering accommodations that fit your needs:

Honolulu: Waikiki Beach Condominiums. These are centrally located and offer a kitchenette, pool access, and a short walk to Waikiki Beach. Great for quick meals and enjoying the local atmosphere.
Maui: Kihei Akahi Resort. Located in South Maui, it’s quiet, close to beaches, and has kitchenettes in the units. It’s perfect for scenic drives and walking on the beach.
Maui: Lahaina Shores Beach Resort. If you’re into exploring the local history of Hawaii, Lahaina offers both culture and beaches. The property has kitchenettes and a pool, making it easy to prepare simple meals while enjoying the views.

As for activities, I recommend the following for a first-time visit:

Honolulu: Visit Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial. Spend some time at the nearby National Cemetery of the Pacific (Punchbowl Crater) for more military history.
Maui: Drive the scenic Hana Highway for breathtaking views, waterfalls, and opportunities for short hikes. You can also explore the historic town of Lahaina for its old plantation history.
Snorkeling: Beginners can enjoy easy snorkeling at places like Waikiki Beach or Kaanapali Beach in Maui. Snorkel gear rentals are available, and the water is generally calm and shallow in these areas.

Overall, enjoy your time exploring the culture, history, and natural beauty of Hawaii. With your interest in scenic drives and local culture, you’ll find plenty to do without the pressure to “do it all.” Relax, enjoy the views, and immerse yourself in the spirit of Aloha!

First timer advice - 1st week of June

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