Arrive at the International Airport in Honolulu and immediately immerse yourself in the Hawaiian atmosphere. Collect your car and head to your hotel for the start of this wonderful holiday.

Home to the State Capitol, Honolulu is the vibrant epicentre of Hawaii and the place where most of the people live. Here you’ll find everything from historic landmarks and treasured monuments to world-class shopping and a flourishing arts and culture scene. Be sure to explore the vibrant downtown district. Next to the skyscrapers of the island’s main business district, you’ll find important landmarks like the Iolani Palace, the King Kamehameha I statue, the Kawaiahao Church and the Aloha Tower.

Waikiki Sand Villa Hotel or similar

The best beaches of O’ahu are undoubtedly in Waikiki. From Duke Kahanamoku Beach to Kaimana (San Souci) Beach, you are truly spoilt for choice. Nearby, the Ala Moana Centre is a shopaholic’s dream; it’s the largest open-air shopping mall in the USA.

For those who enjoy more active pursuits, make a trip to Diamond Head State Monument, a volcanic tuff cone, and one of the most iconic landmarks of O’ahu. You can hike from the trailhead to the summit, indulging in spectacular views along the way.

Waikiki Sand Villa Hotel or similar

Named after the pearl oysters that were once harvested there, Pearl Harbor is the largest natural harbour in Hawaii, a National Monument and a United States naval base. To learn about the horrific events of 7 December 1941, that brought the USA into World War II, you can visit the memorials for the USS Arizona, USS Oklahoma and USS Utah Memorial, as well as parts of Ford Island and Battleship Row.

Just a 30 minute drive further east, is Kualoa; a stunning private nature reserve where the films Pearl Harbor, Godzilla, Jurassic Park and Jumanji were shot. Movie tours are available.

Waikiki Sand Villa Hotel or similar

Today, fly from O’ahu to the Island of Hawaii, more commonly known as Big Island, being the largest in the archipelago. Big Island has various types of climate zones, from the stark Ka’u Desert, formed of lava rock and volcanic ash, to the tropical rainforests of Hilo.

Most of the population live in West Hawaii and it is here, in the town of Kailua-Kona, that your Big Island adventure begins. Sport fishing, snorkelling, sunsets and coffee are all on the menu, the latter cultivated on the slopes of Mount Hualalai. With the mountains blocking the north easterly trade winds, Kailua-Kona typically enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine a year and very little rain.

Royal Kona Resort or similar

Kick off an another day in Kailua-Kona with another locally grown brew. The town’s quiet beaches are perfect for sunbathing and snorkelling, as well as a great spot to see turtles. Well worth a visit are Hulihe’e Palace, a former royal holiday house and now a museum, and Ahu’ena Heiau, a temple dedicated to the Hawaiian god, Lono. For souvenirs, take a stroll down Ali’i Drive, there’s plenty of choice.

Do remember to leave time to explore the beautiful landscapes of Big Island. A scenic drive along Saddle Road is highly recommended, for breathtaking views.

Royal Kona Resort or similar

Today, fly from Big Island to Maui, and collect a new hire car. The second largest Hawaiian island, Maui is primarily known for its diverse natural landscapes. The island offers something for everyone, from adventures to families to sun-seekers, just looking to unwind.

An oasis of majestic ocean hideaways, lush green mountains and picturesque beaches, the island of Maui epitomizes mythical wonder. Add to that the genuine Maui culture, which locals would love you to partake in. There are over 30 beaches and bays to snorkel at around the island and you’ll find the locals hitting the waves to surf.

Wailea Beach Resort or similar

Curving route around forest-clad mountains, passing by black sand beaches and waterfalls, the Road to Hana is one of Maui’s signature adventures, and just as much about the journey as it is the destination. Along the way, make sure to stop at the Seven Sacred Pools and waterfalls of Ohe’o Gulch. Although there are no big distances to travel on Maui, we recommend you give yourself an entire day to explore the Road to Hana to fully appreciate every spell-binding vista!

Wailea Beach Resort or similar

Today, visit the sprawling Haleakala National Park that encompasses the island’s highest peak, volcanic Haleakala, with the famous crater on the summit. The park is known for its unique volcanic features, rare endemic flora and fauna, its long scenic drive with numerous overlooks, and wonderfully clear views of the night sky.

From Haleakala, head to Ka’anapali Beach, to try out the restaurants and eateries along the main street and perhaps set out for a sunset cruise or whale watching journey from the wharf.

Enjoy your last night in Maui with a luau, a traditional Hawaiian party with local food, music and hula.

Wailea Beach Resort or similar

Your last day in paradise. Return your hire car in time for your flight home, though why not add an L.A. or Las Vegas city stay en route to extend your holiday?