How to Get to Green Sand Beach, Hawaii

I stand at that top of a volcanic tuff ring that was formed over 49,000 years ago and look down at the glitter of green-golden sand. I’m about to step foot on something extraordinarily rare, and suddenly the 17-hour flight, 2-hour drive and 1-hour hike seems completely worthwhile. Carefully, slowly, surely, I pick my way … Read more

Guide to The Hawaiian Islands – Maps, Names & Facts

According to Mark Twain, Hawaii is “The loveliest fleet of islands that lies anchored in any ocean.” I couldn’t agree more. But there is more to the Hawaiian islands than most of us realise. For example, did you know there are actually 137 Hawaiian islands? I didn’t, either, until I spent 4 months exploring Hawaii. … Read more

18 Hawaiian Fruits For A Taste of The Tropics

Hawaii – the north pacific’s beautiful tropical islands filled with swaying palm trees, hula dancing, big wave surfing and flaming sunsets. And where there is tropical weather, there are exotic fruits. From the medicinal noni juice to world-famous Maui pineapples, there are a lot of Hawaiian fruits to sink your teeth into. Some of them … Read more

5 Must-See Sights in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Before I went on my around the world trip, volcanoes were the stuff of legends and far-off, exotic places. Landing in South America and progressing on through Central America, I came foot-to-crater familiar with these fascinating creations of nature. It was an obsession I developed quickly and is one I’ve yet to shake, so the … Read more

The Best Hostels in Hawaii on Each Island

Hawaii is expensive, but that doesn’t mean you can’t visit on a budget. Whether you’re backpacking in Hawaii, trying to honeymoon without taking out a mortgage or you’re a family on a budget, you may be surprised to know that you can sleep for as little as $30 a night in Hawaii. The answer: hostels. … Read more

How To Visit Pearl Harbor – Tickets, Tours & Tips

USS Arizona memorial with wreath

History was never my favourite subject at school. My teenage thoughts were more focused on finding the next acid rave (hey, it was the 90s). But I did remember Pearl Harbor. How could I not? The surprise Japanese attack on the pacific fleet at Pearl Harbor Hawaii naval base on 7 December 1941 that dragged … Read more

Things To Do In Pearl Harbor – The Main Attractions

Due to its historical significance, visiting Pearl Harbor was very high on my list of things to do in Oahu. I knew it wouldn’t be the cheeriest day out but I, like the millions of others who visit Pearl Harbor each year, felt a compelling need to go. Frustratingly, Pearl Harbor isn’t the easiest place … Read more

How To Hike Diamond Head in Oahu

Which Hawaiian Island to Visit

I don’t know which was more painful – the shot in the ass or the $500 bill. Either way getting sick within 24 hours of landing in Oahu was not my anticipated introduction to Hawaii. I’m sharing this somewhat personal and painful detail because I tackled the hike up Diamond Head just 48 after being … Read more

10 Top Things To Do In Oahu, Hawaii

Oahu at sunset with palm trees

In this guide, I’ll give you my 10 top things to do in Oahu. I was a bit overwhelmed researching things to do in Hawaii because almost every article I read told me to swim with sharks, surf the Triple Crown (pro surf championship) or take pre-sunrise hikes up steep inclines. (In fact, it took … Read more