These are a few ofour own personal tips & travel opinions that we either discovered by ourselves or read about. The tips & opinions are by no means meant to say you have to follow them and they are pertinent to the time of year (Oct) that we traveled.

Big Island - Hawaiian Vanilla Company near Pauillo

This was one of my unexpected favorites during our trip. The courses of food were very good, all with various hints of vanilla incorporated into the dish and the presentation during lunch was very interesting. Even if you're not a huge fan of vanilla (like me) I'd recommend this side trip if you have some time. Reservations are necessary for lunch.

Big Island -New Kaimu Beach

Another unexpected favorite. This is the place where not many tourists go since it's on the opposite side of Volcano's National park. The Kaimu–Kalapana shoreline was engulfed in lava flow a few years ago. There is a trail of coconut (small) trees that leads from the end of the road to the black sand beach. A local woman, who was dying of cancer, planted these trees along a path to the shore. She didn't finish but a local school picked up the project and her legacy will live on. We highly recommend that you take this side trip, to this area and beach if you have the time.

Poipu, Kauai - Makaweli Point hike

We did a 5.1 round trip hike to Maha’ulepu Beach.  Passed  ironwood trees, craggy cliffs and limestone formations along the way. This was a good, easy hike, even for a family and the beach we ended up at was somewhat secluded and beautiful.

Kauai - Farmers Markets

In general, if you can find a good Farmer's Market, we'd highly recommend it! You can really find some very unusual and very fresh things to stock up on for your condo. It's easy to google for a farmers market in the area you'll be staying in and our best advice is to be there on time and try some of the more exotic stuff you don't see at home. Well worth it!!!

Zipline (canopy) tours

If you can find a zipline tour that meets your budget and interests then we highly recommend doing so. I am usually terrified of heights but after you inspect the gear you use to zipline it really makes a difference in the fear factor part. We used Backcountry Zipline near Lihui and were very happy. Most zipline tours offer a variety of considerations to choose from: length/height of ziplines, how much walking, overall time for tour, do you want to canoe, swim, etc. There is no way to recommend any one company, you need to do the research and see what everyone offers. Do it, you won't regret it!

Kapaa, Kauai - Hawaiian Blizzard Shave Ice

Of all the shave ice we've had in Hawaii on all the trips, this small outfit run from a van in front of the Big Save store in Kapaa is by far the best shave ice we've ever eaten for only 2$!! Ever! One man operation, homemade flavors. Even as we were halfway done he'd squirt a bit more into our cups. You really have to look for this guy in the Big Save parking lot but I promise you that you won't be disappointed!

Koloa, Kauai - Sueoka snack shop

This 'snack shop' is right next to the Sueoka grocery store in Koloa. When you see a bunch of locals waiting in line to get their food, you know you've stumbled upon a gem! This place only does food to go and you can call it in and pick it up if you want. Mostly plate lunches with local fish, etc. and for around $5-6 a person it is truly a great value and the food is really good. We highly recommend you put this place on your list.

Hanalei, Kauai - Ha'ena Beach Park

We have never been to this beach and were very pleased with the beautiful sandy beach (long beach) and the water was such a beautiful blue. This park has shower facilities, picnic tables and is across from some caves that are interesting to walk over and investigate. Drive past Hanalei for 5 minutes or so and you'll be happy you did.

Of course this isn't all the tips and advice we could give but if you have any questions or want our advice on something please feel free to email us. We enjoy helping people out when it comes to Hawaii!

Questions/comments: comments@marklyn.us