Hawaii (Part 2) - Maui & Oahu

By Bethany Whittington

Hawaii is by far one of the most beautiful countries I have ever visited, and it is a must to have on your bucket list. The waters are so beautiful and calm, with a magnificent display of different shades of blue, and a country with such a rich, magnificent culture that extends across generations. I will be talking about two islands that I have visited: Maui and Oahu.

Maui

Maui is one of the smaller islands of Hawaii, and is, my opinion, one of the most beautiful. When visiting, I would highly recommend staying either at the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa or staying at the nearby hotels. You are right on the beach, which includes the beautiful Black Rock - a snorkelling spot where you are guaranteed to find fish. I know from personal experience that I have found multiple green sea turtles there (and that is something you have to see to believe. But please look, don't touch - don't distress the animals, and I'm pretty sure its actually illegal). There is nothing better than lying down in the sand or by the pool, and listening to the waves crashing onto shore. You will never experience relaxation like this.

The Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa

Whaler's Village

Only a short walk from the resort, you will find Whaler's Village, a small shopping centre where you can find great restaurants, shopping and photo opportunities. During the holiday season, you can get a photo with Santa, or watch a (free) Christmas hula show. Its definitely a cute shopping centre (and I would highly recommend the frozen yoghurt. Its delicious)

Oahu

Waikiki

Waikiki is the main city in Oahu, and here you will find a range of amazing shops, restaurants, tourist destinations and other activities. While Maui focuses on relaxation, Waikiki is where you go for a more lively experience. The hotel I have always stayed out is the Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach, as it is right in the centre of the city and an easy walk to the sites of Waikiki. Not only that, but, like with the Sheraton, you are located on the beach, meaning you not only get beautiful views, but you can walk straight onto the beach from the hotel. The Outrigger also has a great restaurant called Duke's, where you can get some delicious drinks and food.

Recommended to-dos

• Rock Island Cafe - located in King's Village, this restaurant is designed to look like an old 1950's diner. I highly recommend the chocolate malt milkshake!
• Ala Moana Centre - a large shopping centre that's only a short trolley trip away. You can find a range of different stores, including the Lego Store, the Disney store, and all sorts of designer stores.
• Drive to the North Shore - if you feel comfortable enough to drive on the right side of the road, I would highly recommend driving up to the North Shore. There, you can find a series of food trucks that serve amazing food, beautiful views, and you might even get the chance to see the large waves Hawaii is famous for.

Overall, Hawaii is most definitely a must-do destination. If you're looking for your next holiday destination, Hawaii is the place to go!