Hawaii - FAQ

Will I need a passport for travel to Hawaii?

No. Hawaii is the 50th State of the United States of America. If you already have a valid passport, you can present it as identification, but your U.S. driver's license will work just as well.

When is the best time to visit Hawaii?

This question can usually be broken into two separate questions: "When is the least expensive time to visit Hawaii?" and "When is the weather best in Hawaii?" Hawaii's "high" seasons are winter (mid-December through mid-April) and summer (June through August). These peak seasons lend to slightly higher rates due to popularity. If you singled out a rainier season, it would probably have to be wintertime. (However, keep in mind that you will only be able to see the whales during their winter migration in the winter months.) Alternatively, spring and fall tend to be the best bargain seasons with the most "mild" weather. Remember, though, that Hawaii has such a moderate temperature year-round that virtually any time you choose to visit is the "best" time.

What should I pack?

Hawaii's temperatures are moderate year-round and the atmosphere tends to be informal. Your suitcase should contain casual clothes (shorts, tee-shirts, khakis, tennis shoes, collared shirts, a long sleeved shirt), a couple of bathing suits, sunblock, insect repellent, light rain gear, and a windbreaker or light jacket. Don't forget a hat or sunglasses! Once you get in the Islands, remember that aloha wear is always acceptable, even at the fancier restaurants.

Is there any minimum or maximum stays required?

There is a minimum stay of at least 3 nights for the length of your vacation (not per island stay). However, we usually recommend staying at least 5 nights in order to increase the ratio of vacation time to travel time to an advantageous percentage. Maximum stays for the best vacation value is 29 nights, a length imposed by airline restrictions.

Do you have special rates for groups?

Since our air/land packages usually offer exceptional value, small groups usually cannot take advantage of special reduced prices. For air/land groups of 50 or more adults, please contact us for special package rates and inclusions. For cruise groups, even smaller groups (10 or more cabins) can receive special group pricing. 

How far in advance do I need to book?

The farther in advance that you book, the better selection and availability you'll find for your departure dates. You'll definitely want to make reservations for the most popular tourist seasons (winter and summer) well in advance. For holiday trips, it's not too early to reserve eight to ten months out to find the best selection. 

If I have only one week for vacation, how many islands do you recommend?

With only 7 nights, 2 islands is the most you'll have time for. If your home is in the Eastern or Mid United States, keep in mind your return flight will likely be overnight. You'll want to take that into consideration when planning your time. 

I'm on a budget; is Hawaii expensive?

In many places throughout the islands there are rooms under $100 per night, and if you look, you can get breakfast for $2.99. Like most destinations, it depends on what you're looking for. Hawaii can actually be a fabulous value if you look in the right place. 

I know Hawaii is famous for its beaches, but I'm not one to sit around all day - what else is there to do?

There's plenty for everyone. In addition to the major tourist sights, and depending on the island you choose, you'll have the opportunity to go sightseeing by helicopter, enjoy a whale watching cruise, take a submarine ride, experience a Hawaiian Luau, and more! There are, of course, a variety of water sports (you'll likely enjoy watching the surfers, even if you don't try it yourself), tennis and golf, hiking, and endless opportunities to enjoy the beauty found around every corner! 

I don't like the idea of spending all day in a plane - how easy is it to get there?

There's a price to pay for paradise and the price is just a few hours more on a plane. From the East Coast and Midwest, you can break up your trip with a stopover on the West Coast - Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, and even Las Vegas are popular options, or you could leave on a snowy day and be swimming in Hawaii's waters at sunset! 

I hate to have rain on my vacations - doesn't it rain all the time?

If you decide to go during the summer, rain is less likely. Also, most of the major hotels are located in the dryer areas of the islands. When it does rain, it's often just a matter of passing showers - enough to keep everything green, bright, and tropical. 

Isn't Hawaii too much like the rest of the United States? I want something exotic!

Hawaii is comfortably familiar as far as things that make a vacation easier, such as language and money, but strikingly exotic with regard to scenery, culture, history, and attractions. Although you can find your typical fast food restaurants, many restaurants specialize in Hawaiian Cuisine - a vast ethnic blend of foods from China, Japan, Vietnam, Thailand, Korea, Laos, the Philippines, and others

Can you suggest activities, restaurants and sightseeing options?

Yes - once your itinerary has been secured, your Hawaii Specialist can help embellish your vacation with activity and sightseeing options and other suggestions.

How do I reserve a Hawaii Vacation?

Reserving your Hawaiian vacation is easy. All travel inquiries are confirmed by our Hawaii Specialist who will secure the best pricing available for your individual itinerary and guide you through the reservation process. 

What is included in a Hawaiian vacation package?

Your Hawaiian Vacation can include air to and from the mainland, inter-island air (if applicable), lodging, and car rental plus all applicable taxes. Cruise vacations can include air transportation as well as extended island stays at the beginning or end of your cruise voyage. 

Which islands can I include in my vacation package?

You can visit any of the Hawaiian Islands in any combination: Oahu, Maui, Kauai, Big Island, Lanai or Molokai. Cruise vacations typically include visits to the four main Hawaiian islands: Hawaii, Maui, Kauai and Oahu.

Do you offer any Hawaiian vacation specials?

Yes. Our travel suppliers offer many special promotions and seasonal values throughout the year. Subscribers to our mailing list receive first notification of these specials. 

When and how are my travel documents delivered?

Travel documents are issued and released only after final payment has been received and typically 3 to 4 weeks prior to your departure date. Once your documents have been received in-house, reviewed for accuracy and augmented with any bonus promotional items, we will contact you to arrange for convenient delivery.

What forms of payment are accepted?

The following credit cards are accepted for payment at no extra charge: Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. Money orders, cashier's checks and personal checks are also accepted but require additional time to process and apply payment to your reservation.