The lush landscape, sandy beaches, and water activities make Hawaii a popular destination for travelers. The tropical climate makes the temperatures relatively comfortable year-round, so consider reserving a beachfront vacation rental to escape cold weather on the mainland during the colder months. If you're a first-time visitor to the islands, here's what you need to know to get the most out of your trip.

How Can You Get Ready for Your First Visit to Hawaii?

1. Research Travel Restrictions

There are still travel guidelines in place during the COVID-19 pandemic, so make sure you follow the protocol for admittance into Hawaii when traveling from a domestic or international destination. By going to your doctor or local pharmacy to get vaccinated, you can avoid pretraveling testing and a lengthy self-quarantine period that cuts into your trip. 

When you land on the islands, practice cleanliness and social distancing. Many beachfront vacation rentals offer digital check-ins to promote safety during your visit.

2. Choose Where to Stay Based on Your Interests

While there are eight Hawaiian islands, six are open to visitors—each offering different attractions and features. When deciding where to reserve a beachfront vacation rental property, consider which activities you want to experience during your trip.

For example, Oahu is a destination for shopping, dining, and nightlife in Honolulu, especially with the lively atmosphere in Waikiki. It is also popular for its surfing locations, such as Waimea Bay on the North Shore and Sandy Beach in the southeast.

3. Book Activities Beforehand

From snorkeling to guided nature walks, there are several activities to enjoy during your tropical adventure. Create a vacation itinerary on your computer and plug in the date and time you want to participate in each activity. From there, book reservations online or call the staff to make arrangements. By making your plans sooner rather than later, you can design a flexible schedule and prevent missing activities. Some tour operators can also provide discounted rates for early bookings. 

When you need accommodation for your trip to Oahu, contact Marina Hawaii Vacations in Honolulu. For over 50 years, this company has provided short- and long-term beachfront vacation rentals that allow travelers to enjoy the comforts of home while staying in Waikiki. See photos of their properties online, learn more about current availability on Facebook, and call (808) 946-0716 to make reservations.