Best ways to experience Hawaii
Travelers to Hawaii come from around the globe for the sugary white sand beaches, warm waters, natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage found nowhere else in the United States. The Aloha State has a lot to offer, so to find the best ways to experience Hawaii, we asked an expert panel to nominate the crème de la crème of cruises, resorts, restaurants, attractions, and tour companies.
Readers then voted for their favorites over a period of four weeks — and the results are in.
Click on each category below to see the full winners list:
Best Family Attraction in Hawaii: Polynesian Cultural Center in Laie, Hawaii
The Polynesian Cultural Center is a must-visit spot — Photo courtesy of Polynesian Cultural Center
One of Oahu’s top attractions provides glimpses into the cultures of Polynesia (Hawaii, Samoa, Tahiti, Fiji, Aotearoa, and Tonga). Each one maintains a separate village, where visitors are regaled with information about celebration and survival in ancient days. Demonstrations, performances, narratives, and even a luau are presented, allowing guests to immerse themselves in tradition.
Full list of winners: Best Family Attraction in Hawaii »
Best Hawaii Cruise: Hawaiian Seascapes Cruise on Safari Explorer with UnCruise Adventures
Experience the islands by sea with UnCruise Adventures — Photo courtesy of UnCruise
This boutique yacht that accommodates only 36 guests cruises between four islands: Molokai, Lanai, Maui, and Hawaii. Visiting secluded spots that are often inaccessible to larger ships, the adventure focuses on the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the islands, with opportunities for an evening feast and Hawaiian jam session with Molokai locals, volcano hikes, and night snorkeling with giant Pacific manta rays.
Full list of winners: Best Hawaii Cruise »
Best Resort in Hawaii: Hilton Waikoloa Village in Waikoloa Village, Hawaii
Guests of Hilton Waikoloa Village enjoy plenty of on-site amenities — Photo courtesy of Hilton Waikoloa Village
Hilton Waikoloa Village is an expansive oceanfront resort stretching over 60 acres on the Big Island of Hawaii. This beloved property is a memorable destination, as it’s home to a legendary luau that’s offered several nights a week, as well as a cultural center. This hotel also features lovely tropical gardens, four swimming pools, a selection of restaurants and bars, and plenty of shops.
Full list of winners: Best Resort in Hawaii »
Best Restaurant in Hawaii: Adela’s Country Eatery in Kaneohe, Hawaii
Adela’s Country Eatery offers top-tier local dishes that support the community — Photo courtesy of Adela’s Country Eatery
Adela’s Country Eatery is known for their homemade Hawaiian noodles using locally grown produce to support Hawaii’s food security “one noodle at a time.” Noodles are handmade daily and used in build-your-own noodle plates. Incorporating a blend of traditional Hawaiian flavors, this popular spot in Kaneohe offers a wide selection of seafood, braised meats, fried rice, local stir-fries, and much more.
Full list of winners: Best Restaurant in Hawaii »
Best Tour Company in Hawaii: Redline Rafting in Maui, Hawaii
Redline Rafting offers unique experiences of the Aloha State — Photo courtesy of Redline Rafting
Redline Rafting’s motto is “half the crowds, twice the adventure.” That’s what you can expect, whether you’re cruising Maui’s Forbidden Coast, snorkeling in Molokini Crater, or looking for north Pacific humpback whales who make Maui their winter home.
Full list of winners: Best Tour Company in Hawaii »
Congratulations to all these winners! Remember to visit 10best.usatoday.com daily to vote in more Readers’ Choice Awards.
