As some of you may already know, I “heart” Hawaii. However, like most other people working in the tax industry I have not been able to get away since tax season begun. So to help all the tax professionals and accounts that are planning their post-tax season vacation, I compiled the following list of the top 10 things to do in Hawaii.
However, just because you do not work in the tax industry do not think this article does not apply to you. May is just a few days away, and that means the IRS is going to begin sending economic stimulus checks shortly. If you are wondering what to do with this “free money,” or if you have not yet spent your tax refund, then consider taking a relaxing vacation to one of the most relaxing places in the world.
1. Go Surfing
It is probably no surprise to anyone who has seen my Halloween costume that I love surfing! Hawaii is the perfect place to surf as all of the islands get decent waves and some can be as large as 30 feet.
2. Relax on a Beach
Hawaii is known around the world for it’s beautiful sandy beaches and sapphire water. Although some of the beaches may get crowded during peak seasons, if you do a little hunting then you can probably find a quite place to relax on the beach.
3. Attend a Polynesian Luau
No trip to Hawaii is complete without attending an authentic Polynesian luau. Even if you do not like kālua pork, a luau is still an exciting experience as they often feature music and dancing in addition to a wide variety of authentic foods.
4. Go Snorkeling
When planning your trip to Hawaii, make sure you bring your snorkel and fins! Molokini is considered the most popular snorkeling site in Hawaii as it has clear water with swarms of beautiful fish. However, there are dozens of other good snorkeling sites if your prefer something more exclusive.
5. Play Golf
Hawaii is known all over the world for their top-notch golf courses. There are nearly 100 different courses on the Hawaiian Islands, with locations ranging from deep in the rainforest to coral sea cliffs.
6. Go Volcano Watching
The Hawaiian Islands are filled with both dormant and active volcanoes that are beautiful see and exciting to visit. The Volcanoes National Park is located on the Big Island and features the most active volcanoes and dozens of tour opportunities.
7. Take a Helicopter Tour
By taking a helicopter tour of one of the islands you will be able to experience it in an all-new way, from hundreds of feet above. You will be overwhelmed by the beautiful the scenery is and how much of the island you can see in a relatively short amount of time.
8. Visit Pearl Harbor
Honoring the lives of those who were lost during the attack on Pearl Harbor is a must for any one who visits the Hawaiian Islands. You can view the USS Arizona in her final resting place by visiting the museum and monument that allows you to look through the glass floor to view the sunken ship.
9. Dolphin Convocation
During the first week of May each year, large amounts of dolphins gather near Oahu Island, swimming in a gigantic wheel or spiral pattern. No one knows exactly why this happens. You can join Hawaiian marine biologists this spring as they venture out to observe and research this strange phenomenon.
10. Take a Bike Ride
There are plenty of good bike trails throughout the Hawaiian Islands and places you can easily rent a bike for a few hours. But always remember to pack ample water and diluted juices as the heat and physical activity can easily dehydrate the novice biker.
For more information, check out Go Hawaii.com.