KPLU travel expert Matthew Brumley has a confession to make.
"I was a travel snob," he said. "I was one of those who said I'll get to places like Hawaii or Puerto Rico or the Caribbean when I'm in my golden years and I've seen everything else on the planet."
He went to Hawaii for the first time about five years ago, and returned just last week.
"I have never been to a place that is more full of life, and life affirming," Brumley said. "There's marine life, whales off the coast, incredibly interesting flora and fauna ... It's also some of the newest land being formed on the planet. If you love geology, marine biology, stargazing and astronomy, nature hikes, gardens, history -- it is one of the great places on the planet to go."
OK.
So, how?
Here are three tips to get off the beaten path and avoid the cliche Hawaii tourist experience.
1. Look to the quieter islands and beaches.
So, not Waikiki. Oahu (including Honolulu) and Maui are busier, in general, than Kauai and the Big Island. You'll find more secluded experiences where you can go on guided tours and experiences -- or just bury your ankles in some sand and read that novel you've been meaning to get to.
2. Look for nontraditional lodging.
The big money is where the big hotels are, and the tourists too. Nothing wrong with those experiences. But Airbnb and vacation rentals by owners can lead you to lodging away from the crowd. Look for coffee plantations, neighborhood homes and the like. These experiences can often be cheaper than hotels, too.
3. Do what the locals do.
Ask for advice on where local people eat and hang out. And look for local festivals.
"There's the Merrie Monarch festival in Hilo (on the Big Island), which celebrates the culture of Hawaii, Hawaiian dance and history," he said.
You don't have to go back in the mountains to "get off the beaten path." Just look to the next town over or, in some places, the next street. Remove yourself ever so slightly from the crowded areas, and you'll find a totally different experience.
Getting There
Direct flights are available on multiple airlines out of Seattle. Be flexible with dates for the best prices. And while direct flights are available, you might find deals if you head to Portland or San Francisco first.
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"Going Places" is KPLU's weekly exploration of travel topics. Matthew Brumley is the co-founder of Earthbound Expeditions, which provides small-group travel to clients including KPLU.
