Hawaii: An Explorer's Guide

Six major islands. One indispensable guide.

Veteran travel writer and photographer Kim Grant cuts through the tourist brochure clutter to help you maximize your precious time and money. Utterly reliable and comprehensive, she gives opinionated listings of resorts, condos, vacation cottages, and campgrounds, and hundreds of dining recommendations, from plate lunches and local grinds to seared ahi and Kona lobster at haute eateries.

But Grant steers you where other guides don't. As apart-time resident, she guides you to waterfalls and volcanoes; takes you snorkeling and golfing; finds authentic luaus; illuminates the nuances of hula; and unearths fine contemporary craftsmen and Hawaiiana collectibles. She also includes dozens of "Top Ten" lists highlighting Musts for First-time Visitors, Best Beaches, Best Romantic Resorts, Best Places for Weddings, Best Places for Sunset Drinks, and a section on how to choose the island that's right for each traveler's taste.

Other guide features include:

• Suggested itineraries for varying lengths of stays and purposeful getaways
• Sidebars on the Hawaiian language and Hawaii regional cuisine
• 25 up-to-date island, regional, and city maps
• Calendar guides to annual events and celebrations
• An alphabetical "What's Where" guide for trip planning
• Handy icons point out best values, "must dos," family-friendly activities, and rainy-day activities
• 100 black & white photos, 15 maps, index