Alaska and Hawaii are the newest of all the American states and both hold a special appeal for travellers, but for completely different reasons. The one thing they do have in common is that they’re both unbelievably beautiful and a playground for nature lovers. Hawaii’s tropical, volcanic paradise is a drawcard for beach lovers and those who prefer a warmer climate, but Alaska doesn’t disappoint for those who favour mountains, glaciers and the fresh crispness that comes with both.
But which suits your unique travel style?
Alaska
Alaska is the largest of all the US states, but it is also the most sparsely populated. Getting away from it all is easy, thanks to the vast expanse of land and mountains that seem virtually untouched by man. There is an incredible array of nature, with everything from the tallest mountains to the most awe-inspiring glaciers. You’ll be able to enjoy plenty of forests walks, as well as strolls through picturesque towns filled with character.
Alaska basic information:
- Capital: Juneau
- Climate: Arctic tundra
- Best time to go: the Alaskan summer from about May to September or October to take advantage of the warmer temperatures
Alaskan Attractions
Alaska is rich in experiences and with so many to choose from, one has to be really strict with choosing the best of the best. These are our picks:
- Go on a bear viewing tour. There are few places in the world where you can get up close (safely) to a beautiful brown bear, but Alaska is one of them.
- Hike the tundra and experience the raw, real and untouched expanse of it up close and personal.
- Whale watching is an absolute must – whether it is by land or boat. There is something about watching whales breach the water that cannot be described in words.
- Depending on the time of year, you might catch the Aurora Borealis. If this isn’t on your bucket list, then it should be! The best time to view this spectacular sighting is between September and April on a clear night.
The highlight of my trip to Alaska was going to the iced over glacier. We walked on it, in and around it, and just a few feet away were flowers blooming! I really enjoyed renting a car, and driving from Anchorage to Seward through the tunnel, and just the beauty all around. I can’t wait to go back! – Kristen, Capturing Joy
Alaskan Food And Drink
When in a new country, you most definitely need to sample the local cuisine to get the 360-degree experience. Our top choices for Alaskan food and drink are:
- Fresh river salmon – possibly the most delicious salmon you will have anywhere in the world
- Caribou steak – local meat is always the freshest and you’ll be quite impressed with the flavour of a good caribou steak
- Sourdough bread – traditionally baked and served since the late 1800s as a staple addition to any Alaskan dish
- Alaska is home to many exceptional brewhouses crafting an arrangement of different ales, lagers, ciders and more. You’ll have to sample a few to find your personal favourite!
- It seems fitting that when in Alaska you try baked Alaska for dessert. It’s a sweet concoction of ice cream, sponge cake and meringue. Simply delicious!
Hawaii
Hawaii seems like a perfect fit for the adventurous nature lover; the traveller who appreciates nature but also wants to become immersed in it through some form of physical activity such as snorkelling, hiking and kayaking. There is a lot of traditional culture that can be enjoyed too.
Hawaii basic information:
- Capital: Honolulu
- Climate: Tropical
- Best time to go: April, May, September and October for good weather and cheaper rates. December, January, February and March for best weather but more expensive rates.
Hawaii Destination Attractions
Hawaii certainly draws travellers seeking the tropical appeal of beaches, jungle, crystal clear waters and inland rivers and waterfalls. There is so much outdoor magic that can be added to your itinerary that you might battle to fit it all in:
- A volcano tour – yes, this is a thing and it’s perfectly safe (they are monitored 24/7)
- On that note, go and watch the lava flowing from a live volcano. Kilauea Volcano is constantly erupting and you can get close enough to check it out.
- Take up some surfing lessons in Kauai, the island made famous by the movie Soul Surfer, and for good reason; it’s idyllic and there are great surf schools to sign up with.
- Take a day trip to Molokini, a partially submerged volcanic crater that is teaming with sea life. It’s a great place to spend the day snorkelling and paddling around.
- Pay your respects for Pearl Harbour at its memorial site
Hawaii is an incredibly magical place. My biggest recommendations for travelers would be to go out and explore outside Honolulu. Communicate with the locals, find the path less traveled. Skip the traditional Lai Ceremony for a sunset hike near the Ka’ua Crater or rent a moped and spend your days riding freely wherever the roads take you. The islands may be small, but what they offer is beyond many of our wildest dreams. – Shalee, Shalee Wanders
Hawaii Food And Drink
Hawaii is also known for being home to some of the freshest food on the planet. The volcanic base makes for really fertile growing conditions, making the fresh fruits and vegetables something quite spectacular! These are our picks for foods you must try while in Hawaii:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables, as mentioned above. Look out for egg fruit, pitaya “dragon fruit”, and papaya!
- Fresh sushi straight from the ocean!
- Spam is one of those things you can’t knock until you’ve tried it – a local favourite, especially alongside a hot breakfast
- Another Hawaiian staple – manupua – is widely regarded as a gift from heaven! Soft, light and fluffy baked buns stuffed with various fillings makes for a snack that can do no wrong.
- When in tropical paradise, drink tropical cocktails! Mostly made from fresh ingredients. Try one that has some fresh coconut water or milk in it too – to die for
So which one will you choose, Alaska or Hawaii? Wouldn’t it be great to do them both?
