In Hawaii, aloha means many things. Some travelers to the beautiful isles of Hawaii think it simply means either hello or goodbye. Aloha means so much more. It’s more of a way of life and a spirit than just a simple greeting. To live the Aloha life, you embrace love and compassion in all you do and to all who you meet. Aloha is a way of being and a lifestyle.
If you’ve never been to Hawaii before, maybe it’s time to embrace the spirit of aloha in 2016.
Of course, there’s always plenty to do on any one of the islands of Hawaii; some more touristy than others. And, of course, there’s always plenty of nothing to do – like lay on the white sand beaches and soak up all that sun in paradise.
If you’re planning to head on over to aloha right after the New Year, there are still some holiday happenings going on in the islands.
Say Aloha to New Years in Hawaii
Hop aboard a New Year’s Eve cruise through Honolulu Harbor as fireworks explode in multi-colored lights overhead. Head on over to the Waikiki Starlight Luau in Hilton Hawaiian Village. You will never be at a loss to ring in the New Year in Hawaii – if you are lucky enough to be spending the first day of the New Year on any one of the islands.
Imagine ringing in the New Year at any one of Hawaii’s beaches or parks with music wafting in the background, fireworks overhead and the smell of a traditional luau wafting under your nose.
Ward Winter Village Outdoor Ice Rink
If you want something to really write home about, why not try ice skating in the middle of paradise. The Ward Winter Village Outdoor Ice Rink is still featuring its holiday schedule until January 10th, 2016. Go for a spin on the ice and grab a cup of hot cocoa while you’re at it.
Honolulu City Lights
Do you have a few more days in the beginning of January to continue the celebration of the New Year in Hawaii? Stop by the Honolulu City Lights up until January 3rd and take part in the festivities as you watch the floats in the parade float by, enjoy authentic Hawaiian foods or listen to live performances.
Hawaii Cherry Blossom Festival
Want to leave the snow and the shovel behind and enjoy the sights and sounds of fragrant Hawaii? Join in the ceremonies at the Hawaii Cherry Blossom Festival to celebrate the fragrant and beautiful cherry blossom. Plenty of pageants and coronations for a different kind of travel experience.
What’s New in Hawaii?
The great thing about Hawaii is in how it maintains its culture but keeps up with the trends. Here are a few happenings for Hawaii in 2016:
• Ritz Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach will offer upscale rooms
• Oahu will open the first Hampton Inn and Suites
• Aston Kaanapali Shores will have a new one million dollar pool complete with new LED lighting – imagine that
• The Four Seasons Resort will re-introduce itself after a beautiful transformation
• For the shoppers – plenty of opportunity to shop till you drop at the International Market Place
• And Hawaii National Volcano Park celebrates its 100th year
And if you are a car enthusiast, why not plan your trip later in the year towards March and enjoy the First Hawaiian International Auto Show set for March 18-20.
If you’ve never been to Hawaii before, there’s plenty to see and do in 2016. You will find the traditional tourist attractions and memorial sites such as the USS Arizona and the Diamondhead crater and for a more unique experience why not take on some whale watching, zip lining or stay in one of the above-mentioned resorts where you can enjoy the fruits of their labor.
In 2016, you can enjoy all that is old and all that is new in Hawaii while you ring in the New Year, as well.
