It’s time to ‘Pack for Paradise’ at the 12 SPG (Starwood Preferred Guest) Resorts in Hawaii, which are offering special values – and travel tips – at each of its properties on four islands.
Package rates start at US$179 at Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay. Travel can be booked now through Sept. 30 at packforparadise.com and rates are valid for stays through Dec. 20, 2017 on Oahu, Maui, Kauai and the island of Hawaii.
In addition to helping travellers pack on the savings, SPG Resorts in Hawaii makes it easy to pack on the fun with ‘How to Pack for Paradise’, a free download exclusively available at: www.packforparadise.com. It’s a helpful guide for those planning a vacation experience in the Islands.
Each Hawaiian island offers unique experiences – from Oahu’s sizzling nightlife to Maui’s breathtaking scenery to exploring the volcanic landscapes of the island of Hawaii. These ‘Pack for Paradise’ tips help vacationers prepare for an island getaway with comfort and convenience.
“Packing for paradise is relatively easy given Hawaii’s casual lifestyle and gorgeous weather year-round, but it’s always helpful to plan for the distinct features and characteristics of each island,” said David Richard, area director of sales for Marriott International. “Having the scoop from local experts on what to bring and what to leave at home can alleviate some of the guesswork so Hawaii travellers can focus on more important matters – like where to watch the sunset or which waterfall to visit first.”
Here are some top tips to help you Pack for Paradise:
All Islands: Keep it light. One or two fancy pieces are great, but Hawaii is known for its casual dress code, and you’ll most likely spend the majority of your time outdoors, so comfort is key. Day-to-day attire is easy – casual shirts, shorts, tank tops, dresses and a pair of jeans. If you are planning to go horseback riding, zip lining or take an ATV tour, a pair of closed-toe shoes is a must.
Kauai: Good hiking shoes and gear. Kauai’s most famous hike is the rugged Kalalau Trail that travels along the Na Pali Coast. If you’re planning on hiking, be sure to pack a durable pair of hiking boots/shoes to prevent slipping. The trail is for experienced hikers, and most people hike and camp two nights before heading back. It’s the ultimate ‘luxploration’ activity that can be capped off with a well-deserved rejuvenating stay nearby at The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas or The St. Regis Princeville Resort, both approximately 10 miles away on Kauai’s north shore, or at the Sheraton Kauai Resort, a 50-mile (90-minute) drive to the island’s south shore.
The island of Hawaii: Portable GPS. The island of Hawaii is larger than all the other Hawaiian Islands combined. That’s why bringing your favorite GPS system is a great idea. Headed to Volcanoes National Park, which is less than a two-hour drive from the Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay? The GPS device will provide audible directions that aren’t always available with a mobile phone.
Maui: A Thick Jacket/Sweater. If you’re planning to visit higher elevations like Haleakala National Park to experience a spectacular Maui sunrise, it will be chilly in the early mornings (especially at 9,740 feet high). After taking sunrise selfies, head back down to Kaanapali for an “Eat Well” breakfast at The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, The Westin Ka‘anapali Ocean Resort Villas or The Westin Nanea Ocean Villas, or warm up while roasting delicious s’mores at Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa’s beachside fire pits.
Oahu: Binoculars. Oahu’s North Shore is home to big wave surfing in the winter. Bring your towels, hats – and binoculars – and snag a spot on the beach to watch the annual surf competitions. During the rest of the year, surfers of all skill levels migrate to Oahu’s South Shore, home of world-renowned Waikiki Beach. Whether you’re relaxing on the lanai of an ocean-view room at Moana Surfrider, a Westin Resort and Spa or Sheraton Princess Kaiulani, sipping a refreshing cocktail at the Mai Tai Bar at The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Resort Collection, or floating in the Sheraton Waikiki’s Infinity Edge Pool, binoculars will come in handy to get a close-up view of surfers, outrigger canoe paddlers and an occasional pod of dolphins.
For more information go to onlyinhawaii.com.
