We love Hawaii.
There's something about the culture and the beautiful landscape that always leaves us wanting more.
It's hard to describe how Hawaii makes you feel. You can get lost in the natural beauty of the place, even in developed areas like Waikiki, but it's something more. Hawaii's vibe instantly calms the mind.
More than just a word, Aloha is a state of mind. It's living your life with love and friendship, peace and compassion.
The Hawaiian people have this in spades, they embody the Aloha spirit, and you can feel that love and warmth when you're there. They love their islands, connecting with the land and respecting their traditions. And they appreciate the same from you.
From shopkeepers to surfers, you'll always find a welcoming smile.
Vacations to Hawaii: The Gift That Keeps on Giving
We love that no matter how many times we visit, we never get bored. We've been to the islands six times (so far) and still have lots of activities on our "things to do in Hawaii" list for the next trip.
Hawaii doesn't have to be a beach vacation. The islands are so diverse that you could easily spend a week exploring and never set foot on the beach (not recommended, the beaches are amazing).
Here are eight things to consider doing when you plan your next vacation to Hawaii.
1. Shop till you drop and eat till you pop.
One of our favorite things to do when we stay at Hokulani Waikiki by Hilton Grand Vacations is to explore nearby Waikiki Beach Walk®, home to some of the area's best restaurants, shops and nightlife.
2. Enjoy history and culture.
Visit museums and palaces in Honolulu. Make a stop at Pearl Harbor, historic Lahaina on Maui or the various tours dedicated to Hawaiian culture.
3. See the wildlife.
Opportunities to enjoy the wildlife on the islands are abundant. You can watch green sea turtles in their natural environment without having to get into the water, whale watching, swim with manta rays and dolphins, ride horses and even see an elusive wallaby.
4. Enjoy a relaxing vacation where you don't see another soul.
You can do that on Kauai, known for its remote locations, beaches and breathtaking scenery.
5. Savor a romantic getaway.
Maui is the honeymoon capital of the world and for a good reason – natural beauty, romantic beach-side restaurants and plenty to explore around the island. Bonus: Hilton Grand Vacations' first Maui resort is opening later this year.
6. Get your adrenaline pumping.
Visit Kualoa Ranch for ATVs, 4-wheel drive and horseback tours on Oahu. There are zip lining and rapids on Kauai and helicopter tours on The Big Island.
7. See a live volcano.
Hawaii is growing every day, and The Big Island is home to one of the world's most active volcanoes. Visit Volcano National Park or take a helicopter tour over the lava.
8. Snow ski.
Believe it or not, you can do that in Hawaii. The summit of Mauna Kea gets snow in the winter, and – for a short time – you can ski.
Where to Stay in Hawaii: Hilton Grand Vacations' Hawaii Resorts
Hawaii is a travel destination that we recommend to all our friends. It's great for lone travelers, couples and families with kids of all ages. We like to spend at least two weeks away to relax and experience all Hawaii offers.
The first week we pick somewhere relaxing within a short distance to places we can explore.
Now that we're Owners, our top pick is The Big Island to use our points at one of the resorts in Waikoloa. The properties are vast and offer lots to see and do within the resort and close by.
The second week we always stay in Waikiki.
The Hokulani Waikiki by Grand Vacations has become our resort of choice. It's great for us because Hokulani is always relatively quiet compared to Hilton Hawaiian Village, but I would encourage anyone, especially couples, to give it a try.
The rooms are luxurious, and the rooftop pool deck has an amazing view across Waikiki to the ocean. It's a quiet little slice of paradise right in the heart of Waikiki. With five properties on Oahu and four on the Big Island, there's a Hilton Grand Vacations Hawaii resort to suit everyone's points budget.
Read Hawaiian Airlines Just Made it Easier to Plan Your Hawaii Getaway for more Hawaii vacation planning tips.