Turn your Hawaii holiday into a mosaic of luxe moments with these unmissable experiences.
A trip to Hawaii can never disappoint, but what if you could turn the luxury up a notch in six easy steps? From a glamorous business class flight with Hawaiian Airlines to a night-time manta ray diving adventure and a five-star oceanfront luxury resort stay, make each and every moment of your tropical escape pure magic. Read on to discover our top six ways to ‘luxify’ your Hawaii holiday and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Ready to indulge? Discover our collection of handpicked Hawaii escapes.
Elevate your journey with a business class flight
Begin your luxe Hawaii holiday before you’ve even taken off when you upgrade to business class with Hawaii Airlines. Begin with complimentary access to The Plumeria Lounge for a pre-flight tipple and snack. Once aboard in the newly refurbished cabin, lie back on plush leather seats that recline a comfortable 180 degrees. Premium bedding is provided, along with the sounds of Hawaiian music or island nature sounds to lull you to sleep.
The food is world-class and prepared by Hawaii’s top chefs, while advanced in-flight entertainment comes in the form of large tablets mounted on an adjustable arm so you can watch your movies at any angle. Alternatively, treat yourself to extra comfort when you opt for the upgraded Extra Comfort Economy Service and enjoy more legroom, priority service and additional amenities.
Take luxury to new heights on Kauai
What could be more enchanting than seeing Hawaii’s Napali Coast from the sky? Located along Kauai’s north shore, this extraordinarily beautiful stretch of coastline is characterised by emerald-covered cliffs, canyons, misty mountain peaks, breathtaking beaches and sky-high waterfalls. Take it all in aboard a private helicopter: from this unique aerial vantage, you are privy to seeing parts of the ‘garden isle’ that are inaccessible by land or water such as Manawaiopuna Falls (which may look familiar if you’re a Jurassic Park fan).
Dive into a unique adventure on The Big Island
If you’re looking for a way to take your Hawaii holiday to the next level, then don your snorkel or diving gear and head to Big Island for an unforgettable marine adventure off the Kona Coast. For the ultimate bucket-list experience, enjoy a close encounter with a graceful manta ray during a night-time dive with Manta Ray Dives of Hawaii. Armed with a head torch, spend 45-60 minutes swimming alongside these gentle giants in the darkness for a true once-in-a-lifetime experience. Afterwards, reboard your boat where hot chocolate will warm you up for the starlit ride back to shore.
Indulge in exceptional dining on Oahu
There’s nothing like a fabulous fine-dining meal to add a sparkle to your holiday. Oahu is home to Hawaii’s only AAA Five Diamond and Forbes 5 Star-rated restaurant, La Mer. This prestigious venue ticks all the boxes: Pacific Ocean views, exceptional service, an award-winning wine selection and exquisite cuisine made using locally sourced ingredients. Picture yourself spearing some poached lobster and squid ink gnocchi onto your fork or swallowing a mouthful of caviar as while the swoosh of the ocean acts as the backing soundtrack to this one-of-a-kind dining experience. Be sure to book your table in advance and arrive dressed in smart evening attire to enjoy this special dining affair.
Set sail on an exclusive Luxury Escapes' experience on Oahu
An epic sunset yacht cruise is a sure-fire way to elevate your trip from a great one to a luxe one. Aboard a Mana Cruises small-group sail (max. six travellers), set off towards the horizon for the best seats to enjoy a fiery sunset. During the 2.5-hour cruise, you can enjoy a range of gourmet pupu tastings (Hawaiian-style hors d’oeuvres) which may include short rib steak, seared ahi tuna salad, local herbed chicken and spicy tuna tartare. All drinks are included, so pour yourself a glass of bubbly and raise it to a perfect day in paradise. Don’t get too distracted by sunset magic: the water barely conceals ocean visitors including Hawaiian spinner dolphin, humpback whales (seasonally), pilot whales, bottlenose dolphin and even flying fish.
Check out Luxury Escapes' selection of bespoke, handpicked experiences.
Extend your stay in five-star style on The Big Island
It’s all too easy to jump from island to island with Hawaiian Airlines. Join a flight to The Big Island and stay at the five-star Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection, an award-winning resort listed in the 2020 Condé Nast Traveller Hot List and the 2021 Travel + Leisure 500. After recently undergoing a US$200 million-dollar renovation, this oceanfront haven seriously delivers when it comes to indulgence. Spend your days being pampered at the spa, shopping at the onsite Goop boutique, playing tennis, swimming in the pool under the shade of palm trees or dining oceanfront at CanoeHouse. With the pristine beach only a few sandy steps from your door, romantic walks on the sand or surfing adventures are readily available.
Want more Hawaii inspiration? Read Where to Eat, Drink, Stay and Play in Hawai‘i.
