2018-10-09T13:01:00
(BPT) – A long weekend is coming up, and this time, you’re hoping to elevate it into something more memorable than a run-of-the-mill road trip to the next city.
Why not live like the rich and famous, and make it a quick jaunt to paradise? True, we tend to think of tropical destinations as best suited for full-length vacations lasting a week or more, mainly because of the cost and effort it takes to travel.
Actually, planning even a brief side trip to a destination like Hawaii is a lot more feasible than you’d think, in terms of finances and timing. Here are some things to think about as you say aloha to your weekend escape.
Getting to Hawaii is easier than you think
When choosing someplace to spend a long weekend, most people wouldn’t hesitate to embark on a six- to eight-hour drive to reach the city or destination of choice. Did you know you can jet to Hawaii on a similar timetable? Hawaii has more than 20 direct flights connecting it with major cities throughout the U.S. as well as Vancouver. That means you can travel to paradise in less time than it takes to drive from, say, Los Angeles to San Francisco (assuming you don’t get trapped in a traffic jam).
Granted, a weekend in Hawaii is easiest for those who live on the West Coast, as direct flights from there take as little as six hours. Still, if you’re flying out of a major U.S. city with direct flights to Hawaii, spending a long weekend is well within reason. Locate your nearest direct flight city, and the possibilities really start to take shape.
Minimizing the cost of plane tickets
Perhaps the cost of plane tickets deters you from even considering Hawaii. Be willing to use a bit of creativity when choosing your flight. With a willingness to be flexible on timing, round-trip tickets can be had for as little as $247.
Choose the right hotel
For ease of planning your getaway, you’ll find plenty of choices from Marriott International – Hawaii, which has more than 30 hotels in the state across four islands with a selection of brands, from Courtyard to Ritz-Carlton. Whether you have your eye on Kauai, Oahu, Maui or the Big Island, all you have to do to lock in a great weekend rate is visit Marriott.com!
Devote the first day to lazing at the beach
The key to an enjoyable weekend trip is selecting one island to visit while keeping a simple itinerary. Devote a full day of your long weekend to pure beachside relaxation. In the morning, just step outside and let your troubles disappear while basking in the sun of Waikiki Beach. When it’s time to eat, umbrella drinks and delicious entrees are just steps away at the legendary Royal Hawaiian’s Mai Tai Bar. Later, grab a nap under the trees at Kapiolani Park, but if you’re up for a stroll, Kaimana Beach is a local favorite. For a stunning overlook of the waves and surfers, take a walk along Diamond Head Road.
Spring to life for a second-day adventure
Now that you’re rested, the second day can step up the adventure. Explore TV and film relics like Godzilla’s footprints and Jurassic Park’s fallen tree at Kualoa Ranch’s famed Ka’aawa Valley. For your lunch break, the Waiahole Poi Factory is a popular dining spot with deep roots in traditional Hawaiian cuisine. Then pass the afternoon leisurely shopping for unique and colorful apparel at the many boutiques in Kailua Town. On the drive back to your hotel, take the coastal route — your soul will live off the amazing views of East Oahu long after you return.
Basking in the sun, surf and happy vibes that you can only find in Hawaii is the perfect way to spend any weekend. Start planning your getaway today!
