Les Voyages: Top 7 Things To Do In Tahiti

BY  Mashum Apr 26, 2022

“Life is like the tides of the sea, at times high, again some low. The beach is next to living it in style. It's all about celebrating the highs and lows!” Well, if you are a traveller who is crazy about beaches, you are not alone. There are numerous staying options in hotels near key west fl people in every corner of the world dream about spending beach vacations in all seasons. So, here I am with the list of the ten best beaches in Florida. Well, it is also known as the Sunshine State in the country and you can visit here at any time of year, especially in summer and the fall. So, you can check out the best beaches in the state along with the activities and hotels to stay here. As a result, it would be easier for you to plan for a vacation. You can even visit a couple of beaches or three in a single vacation. For now, look at the entries in the list and choose the ones you desire to reach. Do not forget to talk with your travel agent. Click Here To Read: 10 Best Places To Travel In November – Travel Guide 2022 Ten Best Beaches In Florida To Spend A Vacation In 2022 A beach vacation in Florida is something you would cherish for life. So, what are you waiting for? Go through the entries and talk with your travel agent accordingly. 1.  Siesta Beach Overview Siesta Beach is one of the best beaches in the Florida Keys. You can reach here on a solo or couple trip. One unique trait of this beach that attracts most beach lovers is the white sand. It is fine and powdery and known as quartz. So, you can take a lot of photos on the beach. Moreover, if you carve the love of the cool sea beach, Siesta is the best place for you. You can spend the entire day on this beach and have fun. Towards the afternoon, you can go for a beach walk and witness the picturesque sunset. Location Siesta Key Beach, Florida, USA How To Reach The best way to reach Siesta Beach is to reach the village first. You can later walk up to the beach. It is just a small walk. Activities Witness the white quartz beach and admire its beauty. Go for a long beach walk along the eight-mile-long coast. Spend an afternoon on the beachside and witness the sunset. Hotels Nearby Days Inn By  Wyndham Sarasota, Baymont By Wyndham Sarasota. 2. Santa Rosa Beach Overview The Emerald Coast is one of the most alluring destinations where trippers visit while on their trip to Florida. As a result, it also comes on the list of the best places in the state. Now, Santa Rosa Beach is located here and it is one of the best beaches in Florida. You can set your next vacation here to relax and enjoy the clear waters of the beach. Moreover, the white sand would be a treat for your eyes. No matter if you have time constraints, do not miss to indulge in the activities at the Santa Rosa Beach. You can always consider Santa Rosa to be an appropriate answer to the question-” where are the best beaches in Florida?” Location Santa Rosa Beach, FL, USA. How To Reach Santa Rosa Beach is very near Panama City, Florida. So, you can anyhow reach there and take a cab to the seaside. Activities You can indulge in the beach walk along the coastline. Santa Rosa is a good place for swimming and lounging. Do not forget to visit the Topsail Hill Preserve State Park. Hotels Nearby Hibiscus Coffee and Guest House, watercolour Inn. 3. Honeymoon Island State Park Overview Hey dear traveller! Are you newly married and looking for a beach honeymoon spot? Well, you can consider Honeymoon Island State Park as one of the best family beaches in Florida. Well, that was a Poor Joke. The two best traits of the HISP beach in Florida are tranquillity and privacy. So, you can expect to spend some quality time with your loved one. All you have to do is book a good place to stay. Location Causeway Boulevard, Dunedin, FL. How To Reach The Caladesi Connection Ferry can be the easiest way to reach Honeymoon Island State Park. Activities Relax and rejuvenate at the beachside. Go swimming and beach hiking. Collect shells from the beach as a pastime. Hotels Nearby Hampton Inn Dunedin, Sandpearl Resort. Read More: Traveling To Korea? Here’s Your Must-Try Korean Food   4. Grayton Beach Overview If you are in search of the best beaches in Florida for families, your search ends here. You can choose to visit Grayton Beach for a family getaway. This beach is always busy with the locals and you can get to do a lot of activities during the season. If you have a plan to stay in Grayton Beach, do not forget to book a Hemingway-style home made of wood. Location Main Park Road, Santa Rosa Beach, FL. How To Reach Grayton Beach is near Santa Rosa Beach and you can reach here by walking from there. Activities Witness the perfect virgin sea beach. Indulge in beach biking.  Take part in the water activities and swimming. Hotels Nearby Hyatt Place, Marriott Sandestin (Grand Boulevard). 5. Naples Beach Overview Naples Beach can be called one of the best beaches in Florida. Moreover, many travellers term it as one of the best beaches in Florida Gulf Coast. So, if you are planning for a vacation soon, make sure to visit Naples Beach in Florida. The best you can do is not plan much and impulsively visit the Sunshine State. Well, currently, it is the on-season and you can have fun visiting Naples Beach. The best thing you can witness is the ‘sugary sand’ present on this beach throughout an entire stretch of ten miles. Location Naples, FL. How To Reach To reach Naples Beach, all you have to do is get into Florida and reach up to Naples city by car. Your destination would be in close proximity. Activities The Naples beach can be the best destination for theatre activities like kayaking, snorkelling, and fishing. You can visit this beach for a family picnic on the weekend.Naples Beach has warm water and you can easily swim in it. Hotels Nearby Courtyard By Marriott Naples, Hilton Naples, Edgewater Beach Hotel. 6. Navarre Beach Overview Are you up for a beach vacation anytime soon? Are you about to search for what are the best beaches in Florida? Well, the simplest solution for your concern can be Navarre Beach. It is one of the busiest locations for tourist attractions in the state. Proudly being one of the best beaches in Florida, it has got the name ‘Florida’s Playground’. Apart from the common white sand, you can witness the emerald waters. The Navarre is yet another gulf beach and you can find in all itineraries of a US trip. Location Navarre Beach, near Pensacola Beach, FL. How To Reach You need to reach Navarre City and take the Navarre Beach Causeway to reach the Navarre beach. It is quite easy to route. Activities Fishing is the best activity in Navarre Beach that all travellers must experience. Go for a bike cruise along the best bike paths. Take a walk along the 12 miles long coastline with virgin sand all over the beach. Hotels Nearby Navarre Waterfront Hotel, Hampton Inn and Suites, Navarre Best Western Hotel. 7. Pensacola Beach Overview Pensacola Beach is just adjacent to Navarre Beach and it is one of the best beaches in Florida according to many. If you have a big family and you desire to go out for a trip with all of them, just reach out to Pensacola blindly. Pensacola Beach is the final answer to questions related to water activities. Well, if you badly desire to indulge in such activities, just reach here and look for a professional. Apart from the aquatic activities, you can witness outstanding sunsets here. So, always remember to stay at the beach till dusk. In case you are on your honeymoon and out for a Florida beach trip, make sure to visit Pensacola. You can enjoy a good time with your partner here as there are a lot of activities to do on the Pier. Yet another thing that you should not miss is the Blue Angels Show. It takes place near the Naval Aviation Museum. Location Pensacola Beach, FL. How To Reach To reach Pensacola Beach, you need to take the far western end road from Santa Rosa Island. It leads you directly to the Trueman Parking Lot of Pensacola Beach. Activities Witness the marvellous sunsets from Pensacola Beach. Indulge and enjoy the activities of the Pier. Explore Fort Pickens which is in the close proximity to the Pensacola Beach. Hotels Nearby Surf And Sand Hotel, Holiday Inn Express Pensacola Beach, Hampton Inn Pensacola Beach. 8. Miami Beach Overview Miami Beach is a globally renowned tourist destination that falls in Florida. So, automatically it backs a place in the list of the best beaches in Florida. Well, you might also have a dream to visit Miami, like most young Americans. Well, you can rapidly plan for a trip to Miami as the place is now going through the peak season. There are a lot of activities you can do in Miami. Well, do not miss visiting the adjacent South Beach in this place. Quite obviously, it is one of the sought-after family beaches in Florida. So, you can visit here without any anxiety. You can consider yourself lucky if you get someplace for sunbathing. While the Miami beach might seem to be over-congested, the city can gift you with a lot of things. You can take your time and check out the markets. Location Miami, FL. How To Reach Miami is one of the main cities in Florida. So, you can reach this city by the highway. Moreover, there are a lot of domestic flights to the Miami Airport from different corners of the US. Activities Explore the Miami Market and shop around. Go for a beach walk at Miami beach. Hotels Nearby YVE Hotel Miami, Hotel Brazilian Calle Ocho. You May Like To Read This: 10 Best Places To Travel In July – Travel Guide 2022   9. Deerfield Beach Overview If you are one of those travellers who have this urge to visit off-beat places every time, Deerfield Beach can be the right place. Well, it is one of the best beaches in Florida but remains quite underrated. In case you want to escape from the daily mundane alone or with your family, this beach can be your top choice. There are some good traits of this beach. You can expect it to be clean and nearly empty even during the on season. Finally, the local deers show up randomly on this beach which can be a treat for your eyes. Location Deerfield Beach, Boca Raton, FL. How To Reach To reach Deerfield Beach, you need to reach the city of Tampa first. From Tampa, you can take a cab to the place. You can even reach this place by taking a cab from Miami. Activities Sit back and relax on the beach side all day. Spot local deers and take photographs. Hotels Nearby Doubletree By Hilton Hotel Boca Raton, 365 Ocean Hotel. 10. Juno Beach Park Overview Are you all set to go for a picnic with your family but have time constraints? Well, in such a case you can go to the Juno Beach Park. All you have to do is take the  supplies and drive up to this serenade beach in Florida. This is one of  the best beaches in Florida for families. Always expect the glittering sunshine to accompany you. If the weather remains clear, you can get some excellent sea breeze and just relax till the sunset. Location Juno Beach Area. How To Reach Juno Beach Park is near the city of Port. St. Luce. In this case too, you can get available cabs to reach the place. Activities Enjoy some leisure time with your family at the beach side. Visit the Loggerhead Marinelife Centre after a short beach walk. Do not miss visiting the Busch Wildlife Sanctuary while in the Juno Beach area.   Hotels Nearby Jupiter Beach Resort and Spa, Palm Beach Gardens Hotel. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Q1. What Is The Number 1 Ranked Beach In Florida? Miami Beach is the number 1 ranked beach in Florida. On the other hand, Clearwater Beach is ranked 1 according to the trend. Q2. Which Side Of Florida Has The Best Beaches? The Gulf coast side of Florida has the best beaches. Q3. What Is The Most Relaxing Beach In Florida? Deerfield Beach is the most relaxing beach in Florida. Q4. Which Beach In Florida Has The Most Activities? Pensacola Beach has the most activities among the beaches of Florida. You can also find the  same in Clearwater Beach. Final Words A beach vacation to Florida can be a memorable experience for life. So, if you are still in a dilemma regarding the trip, try getting over it. Just grab some beach-friendly outfits and pack your bags. The best you can do is search for a short vacation package and  purchase it. I hope you choose some beaches from the above list and visit them on your next trip. Just get a good travel agent and talk with him regarding this matter. Read Also: Australian Travel Ideas For 2022 Top 5 Travel Tips For Your Next Trip To China

BY  Sibashree Nov 20, 2025

We were lying in the Medlands Beach with the Milky Way arching overhead. No city lights! Only the sound of the waves kept us connected to this physical world. For me, it was not just the sky full of stars and constellations. These stars were the roadmap for our ancestors, irrespective of the culture and country we belong to. They watched the stars to keep time and decide the time of the year ideal for agriculture, harvesting, fishing, and hunting. In the Maori culture, Tohunga kōkōrangi, or specialist priests, had this deep astronomical knowledge, and they shared the knowledge with others. Also, there are myths and ancient stories about the stars, like the one with the Matariki cluster. This cluster is associated with the anger of Tāwhirimātea, the God of wine and storms. Being furious, he tore his eyes and threw them into heaven. There, his eyes became the Matariki stars. Overall, for the Maori tribes, the stars and constellations have been beyond celestial bodies for observation. They were a mix of spirituality, science, stories, and a way of living life. So, when the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, became a Dark Sky Sanctuary in 2017, it celebrated ancestral connections and the role of the sky as a roadmap. And I visited Great Barrier Island in 2022. So, nature had its own reboot during and post the COVID-19 era. So, we could see the clearest sky. In this Great Barrier Island stargazing guide, I will talk about the best stargazing spots, stargazing tips, conservation etiquette, and more. Let’s explore the magic of the Aotea Dark Sky Sanctuary. A Deep Dive Into Māori Astronomy (Tātai Aroraki) And Legends: A Combination Of Science, Spirituality, And Culture When on the Great Barrier Island, it is important to see the stars and celestial bodies through a Maori lens. Also, during our Maori-guided stargazing tour, our guide chanted waiata, and he even used carvings (whakairo) and told stories to make the experience more interactive. He made us familiar with the key celestial figures and their Maori names. Furthermore, he explained how Maori people perceive different celestial phenomena. Major Celestial Figures And Their Significance In Maori Tradition  It is fascinating to see how Maori people connect the stars and celestial bodies with their traditional beliefs and stories.  1. Te Kahui O Kahu  The Te Kahui O Kahu constellation is the guardian of the sea and land. The stories of this constellation are important for teaching us the importance of being respectful to nature and protecting natural resources. 2. Matariki Or Pleiades Star Cluster  Matarikin is the most celebrated Māori constellation. When Matariki gets visible in the sky at dawn, it announces the arrival of the Māori New Year. It is time to gather, share stories, and plan for the year ahead for this local tribe. Also, according to traditional beliefs, the brighter the Matariki constellation shines, the better the year for harvesting and fishing.  3. Tautoru Or Orion Constellation  Tautoru symbolizes protection and power. It was significant for hunters and warriors. 4. Ngā Rā  The Milky Way or Ngā Rā is believed to be the pathway of ancestors in the Maori tradition. The ancestors use this pathway to travel between the worlds. Furthermore, in many interpretations, this is the pathway through which the spirits guide the departed souls to the afterlife. 5. Tāwhirimātea Or The Southern Cross  Tāwhirimātea is worshipped as the protector of the sea. In ancient times, the Maori sailors depended on this constellation to guide them across the Pacific Ocean. 6. Auroras Maori people worship auroras as the spirit of their loved ones or ancestors. They even think that auroras bear significant messages from the spiritual realm.  7. Bright Planets (Venus And Jupiter)  The appearance of these bright planets was associated with the everyday life of Maori people. The appearance of these planets is predictable, and that is why they are associated with timing ceremonies and navigation. Why Great Barrier Island Is A Stargazer’s Paradise?  With exciting hiking trails, pristine beaches, and an eco-conscious and off-grid lifestyle, the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, is an ideal stargazing destination. With no ATMs, footpaths, or banks, the island has maintained a quiet existence. Furthermore, with low air and light pollution, the stars, the Milky Way, and other celestial bodies shine bright in the sky once the Sun goes down. In addition, around 60% of the island is protected by the Department of Conservation (DoC). So, it is home to many endemic plants, animals, and birds. So, it is also a bucket-list destination for nature and wildlife lovers. Moreover, each islander thinks of themselves as a kaitiaki or caretaker. Thus, it has successfully emerged as a zero-waste island, and biosecurity measures with designated spots for camping, hiking, and cleaning have made this island a sanctorium of sustainable practices and natural preservation. What Makes Aotea A Dark Sky Sanctuary?  The International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) has scientifically measured the darkness of the sky of the Great Barrier Island. The IDA further offers principles to protect the night sky through awareness and restricted lighting. "To be a Dark Sky Sanctuary, you need an mpsas [magnitude per square arc second] of 21.5, and we had an average of 21.79. Every step on that scale is twice as dark; Auckland is 18, so you can see 10 times more stars here than you can in Auckland.”  Hilde Hoven, from Good Heavens Dark Sky Experiences.  Furthermore, the darkness of the night sky of the Great Barrier Island is measured every year, and the report is sent to the International Dark Sky Association. In addition, the local people choose low-intensity lighting indoors and outdoors to adhere to the light pollution standards of the dark sky sanctuary. In addition, there are no street lights, and the entire island practices off-the-grid living to preserve it as a Dark Sky Sanctuary.  What Are The Best Stargazing Spots On Great Barrier Island, New Zealand?  The Great Barrier Island is one of the best stargazing spots in NZ. I had the most beautiful stargazing experience at Medlands Beach. However, Awana Beach and the Mount Hobson Summit are two other prominent locations for stargazing. 1. Medlands Beach  I was fortunate enough to be a part of the Good Heavens group stargazing experience on the sand dunes above Medlands Beach. We all had access to an 8-inch telescope to get up close and personal with the stars and planets. Furthermore, each of us had binoculars, and our guide used a laser light to point at the stars and planets and share their stories with us. Far from urban areas, Medlands Beach offers the best views of the night sky, and the gentle waves reflect the stars and planets. Here is a dark Sky photography guide for you if you are at Medlands Beach. You can use the contrast between the dunes and the vast sky to create a perfect composition for your picture. 2. Awana Beach  Awana Beach, one of the best beaches in Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, is a natural planetarium. The shoreline here is secluded, making it even more suitable for stargazing. Offering a clear view of the southern sky, Awana Beach is the best place to see the Milky Way on the Great Barrier Island. Furthermore, Awana Beach is the meeting ground of amateurs and professional astronomers. The beach gets more visitors during the following celestial and planetary activities. Planetary Alignments  Occasional Auroras  Lunar Eclipses  In addition, the tranquility of the place is ideal for experiencing stargazing as something beyond a visual spectacle. 3. Mount Hobson Summit  A hike to the Mount Hobson Summit ensures a brilliant stargazing experience. The summit is at a height of 627 meters, and thanks to the height, it is free of the atmospheric interference at the sea level or lower altitudes. Also, once you reach the summit after a walk of 2-3 hours, you will get a 360-degree view of the night sky and the Great Barrier Island. Furthermore, the height allows you to observe the Orion Nebula and other deep-sky objects with binoculars. 4. Kaitoke Hot Springs Kaitoke Hot Springs fuses relaxation with a fascinating stargazing experience. Imagine you are soaking in warm sulfur water pools, and the stars are shining the brightest over your head. It is a multisensory experience, with the crisp air caressing you, the warm water offering comfort, and the night sky presenting the ultimate cosmic display. Just a small tip. You must bring a waterproof laser light to see the stars without ruining the clarity or the darkness measure. 5. Windy Canyon  Windy Canyon already has that drama on the verge of being surreal, thanks to its unique geological formation. So, stargazing here feels magical, with the canyon itself functioning as a natural observatory. The clarity of the sky is so high here that even the faintest celestial bodies become visible. In addition, the Windy Canyon is accessible for all types of visitors as the walk is short and easy. What Are The Top Stargazing Tours & Experiences?  The Good Heavens stargazing tours and experiences are the best on the Great Barrier Island. It offers the following stargazing tours on the Great Barrier Island. 1. Heavens Above - Private Dark Sky Experience  This private dark sky experience is organized at your accommodation with a telescope, hot chocolate, and bean bags arranged by Good Heavens. They can also take you to the nearby beach. The charge is $1560 for a group of 2 to 12 people, and beyond that, the price will be on request. 2. Moon Walk - Group Star Gazing Experience  Moon Walks happen for a week every month. During this time, the Moon looks the biggest in the sky, and the Milky Way is less visible. The tour charge is $130 for adults and $65 for children below 13 years. 3. Look Up And Get Lost - Group Dark Sky Experience  This is a deep sky experience, and the tour continues for 1.5 hours. The charge for this tour is $130 for adults and $65 for children under 13. How To Enjoy Dark Sky Sanctuary On Great Barrier Island Without A Tour?  Are you on an independent stargazing tour on the Great Barrier Island? Consider the following Aotea stargazing tips. 1. Checking Weather Conditions  Clear Moonless nights are the best for a stargazing experience on the Great Barrier Island. However, if you want to go for a Moonwalk, expect lesser visibility of the Milky Way and the stars. 2. Finding A Dark Sky Spot  The beaches of the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, are ideal for the ultimate stargazing experience. Know the dark sky spots and drive away from urban life to see the best cosmic display. 3. Bringing The Right Gear  On guided stargazing tours, the tour operators provide binoculars, telescopes, and red laser lights. If you are on a DIY tour, you will have to carry these essentials. 4. Using Stargazing Apps And Tools  You must use stargazing tools and apps for the best stargazing experience. The best is the free NASA app, and Astrospheric is another app known for brilliant forecasting. Furthermore, you can bring a star chart to locate and identify the stars and constellations. Astrophotography Tips For Beginners  The Medlands Beach and Awana Beach are two of the best beaches for reflection shots on the Great Barrier Island. Furthermore, here are some ideas about the essential equipment and camera modes for astrophotography on the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand.  Camera Mode Manual Aperture \(f/2.8\) or \(f/4\) ISO 3200 or 6400 Shutter Speed 15-25 Seconds Or, Divide 500 by the Focal Length of Your Lens File Format RAW or RAW + JPEG to Retain Better Color Data for Editing White Balance Manually Setting The White Balance to 4000 Kelvin Tripod Carry a Sturdy Tripod for Image Stabilization.Focus Keep Your Lens Focus to Infinity.Trigger You Can Use a Remote Trigger or Set the 2-10 Seconds Self-Timer of the Camera to Avoid Jerking while Pressing the Shutter Button.Lens Wide Lens (At least 24mm) for Full-Frame Cameras 18mm or Wider for APS-C Cameras  Seasonal Stargazing Calendar: What To See & When  Know when to watch meteor showers, the Milky Way, and Aurora Australis in the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand.  Season / Months Meteor Showers (Peak Dates) Milky Way Core Visibility Aurora Australis Chances Summer (December–February)• Geminids – Dec 13–14 (best annual shower) • Ursids – December 22• Quadrantids – January 3–4 (short, intense) • Early Morning Visibility• Low on Horizon before Dawn The chances of Aurora Australis visibility are low as geomagnetic activity is subdued; occasional events only during strong solar storms.Autumn (March to May) • Lyrids – April 22–23 • Eta Aquariids – May 5–6• Core Visibility from 2 AM to 5 AM There are moderate chances of seeing the Aurora Australis. As the nights grow longer, the chances become higher, and equinox-related geomagnetic boosts the visibility chances.Winter (June to August) • Bootids – June 27 (variable)• Southern Delta Aquariids – July 28–30• It is the Best Season for Milky Way Photography.• You Can See the Core for Most of the Night. These months offer high chances of seeing the Aurora Australis due to high solar wind and longer nights. The chances of seeing the Aurora increase after the Equinox.Spring (September to November) • Draconids – October 8th • Orionids – October 21–22 • Leonids – November 17th–18th• The Core Visibility Becomes Less in this Season.The September equinox gives strong geomagnetic activity. So, this season offers moderate to high chances for Aurora visibility. Stargazing-Friendly Accommodation & Camping  Camping on the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, is the best option for stargazing. There are Department of Conservation (DoC) campsites such as Medlands Beach, Akapoua Bay, Harataonga, Awana Beach, The Green, and Whangapoua. In addition, Stay High Island Camping Co. and the Great Barrier Island Campground are two privately-owned campgrounds on the Great Barrier Island. Furthermore, stargazing tour providers, such as Good Heavens, can offer all-inclusive packages, including eco-friendly accommodations such as XSPOT Cliff House.  Beach Etiquette & Conservation For Night Sky Lovers  When you listen to the Maori stories about stars and celestial bodies, you have to respect their tradition. Be sensible, as the stories are a part of their value system and spiritual beliefs carried through generations. Our guide asked us to remain quiet during storytelling and participate in some cultural traditions. The more respectful you are toward their culture, the more enriching your experience will be. In addition, you have to abide by the light pollution rules and wildlife protection norms. 1. Light Pollution Rules  Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, is a designated Dark Sky Sanctuary. So, the protection of the dark sky is very important. So, you have to avoid using bright lights, and even if you need to use light for safety, keep the intensity low. Furthermore, you need to allow your eyes to adapt to the darkness of the sky. Slowly, you will also discover the faint stars. You can use a red laser light and binoculars to enhance the stargazing experience on the Great Barrier Island, New Zealand. 2. Wildlife Protection  Stargazing goes hand in hand with the wildlife tours on the Great Barrier Island. The sound of black petrels kept us alert during our entire stargazing experience on Medlands Beach. To protect the wildlife on and around your stargazing location, you must avoid feeding the animals and birds. Maintain a safe distance and remain on the marked routes to avoid disturbing their habitats and soil transfer. Furthermore, do not trespass on any private property, and you must not leave any litter behind. Adventure Add-Ons: Glowworms, Hot Springs & Night Kayaking  You can combine the stargazing experience on the Great Barrier Island with night kayaking at the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park. As you kayak, you will notice the water of the Great Barrier Island transforming into a surreal landscape. Furthermore, if you are on the Great Barrier Island around February-March, you will see bioluminescence in the water on warm and calmer days. In addition, taking a bath in the Kaitoke Hot Springs after sunset is an experience that you will remeber for the rest of your life. Final Tips For Your Aotea Stargazing Adventure  You need to have some knowledge about the moon phase if you want to enjoy stargazing on Great Barrier Island, New Zealand. The New Moon or the Crescent Moon is the ideal day for observing the night sky. Also, even in the summer months, the temperature drops drastically after sundown. So, you will have to wear layered clothes.  Moreover, keep flashlights dimmed or the brightness of your phone screen low to avoid light pollution.

BY  Sibashree Apr 24, 2025

The Bahamas and Hawaii! Two beautiful tropical destinations with beautiful beaches and natural abundance. But which one is better as a vacation spot?  We will examine all aspects in this Hawaii vs. Bahamas comparison. And let’s begin with a brief understanding of the tourism landscape in both locations.  2024 was a great year for the Bahamas tourism industry. 11.22 million international tourists visited the country in 2024.  However, it has also been a challenging year for the country’s tourism ecosystem, with the crime rate going up and various countries issuing advisories about the need for taking increased caution during a trip to the Bahamas.  On the other hand, Hawaii, the USA, welcomed 770,940 visitors in 2024, and the visitor spending in the same year was $1.55 billion. So, 5000 miles apart from each other, the Bahamas and Hawaii are both growing massively as world-class tropical vacation spots.  However, if you want detailed insights about Hawaii and the Bahamas as vacation spots and which one is better, you will have to read our Tour and Travel Blog. How To Reach Hawaii Vs Bahamas From The USA?  If you are in the USA, you don’t need a passport or visa to travel to Hawaii. However, for a trip to the Bahamas, you will need a valid USA passport.  You don’t need a visa, though, if you are visiting the Bahamas from the USA as a tourist. Reaching Hawaii  Hawaii has the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. So, it is well connected to the other parts of the USA through flights.  You will especially get multiple flights from California and Los Angeles to Hawaii.  Also, once you reach Hawaii, you will get various cheap flights operated by Southwest Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines to hop between the Hawaiian islands.  Reaching The Bahamas  Though the Bahamas is not a part of the USA, the distance between the states on the west coast of the USA and the Bahamas is almost the same as their distance from Hawaii.  In fact, flight charges from these states to the Bahamas are often less than the price of flight tickets to Hawaii.  Hawaii Vs Bahamas: Quick Facts  ComparisonThe BahamasHawaiiSize13,880 km²11,672 km2Population403,0331450900Capital NassauHonoluluAirportLynden Pindling International AirportGrand Bahama FreeportDaniel K. Inouye International Airport What Is The Best Time To Visit Hawaii Vs Bahamas?  Despite being popular tropical destinations and sharing almost the same distance from the Equator, there are some differences in the weather conditions of Hawaii and the Bahamas.  The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn are the best times to visit Hawaii. So, you can plan a trip to Hawaii during April and May or September and October.  During April and May, the average temperature in Hawaii hovers around 20 degrees Celsius. On the other hand, the average temperature during September and October remains close to 25 degrees Celsius.  On the other hand, mid-December to mid-April is the ideal time to visit the Bahamas. During these months, the temperature in the Bahamas remains between 22 and 24 degrees Celsius. Weather Conditions In Hawaii Vs Bahamas  With a predominantly tropical climate, Hawaii experiences a diverse range of weather conditions.  It features volcanic mountains, including Powers Caldera, Mauna Kea, and Mauna Loa, among others. Mauna Loa is the tallest among them, with a height of 4205 meters. So, you will experience a change in temperature and weather conditions in those mountains. Also, there will be natural calamities such as blizzards and thunderstorms.  On the other hand, the Bahamas has a relatively seamless temperature scenario throughout the year.  However, there is heavy rainfall in October, and hurricanes are frequent in the Bahamas from September to November. Bahamas Or Hawaii For Family Vacation: Which One Is Safer? The Bahamas and Hawaii are excellent choices for tropical getaways. However, Hawaii has more seamless weather conditions throughout the year.  So, it can be a more suitable destination for family vacations. But which one is safer for a family vacation? Let’s find out! Is The Bahamas Safe? Also, there is a major concern about “is the Bahamas safe?”. The year 2024 has seen a sharp rise in the crime rate in the Bahamas. The Bahamas' murder rate in 2024 was 29.7, which was 8% more than in 2023. Moreover, the U.S. Travel Advisory, the Canadian Bahamas Travel Advice, and the “Foreign Travel Advice Bahamas” issued by the UK Government advise tourists to exercise increased caution during their trip to the Bahamas.  There are even guidelines to avoid visiting various areas of Nassau and Freeport. In addition, all the advisories mention security threats such as violent crimes, sexual assaults, robbery, the unregulated boating industry, and increasing shark attacks in the Bahamas.  So, if you want to plan a family trip to the Bahamas right now, it’s not the best time. Is Hawaii Safe? Currently, Hawaii is safer, as evidenced by the 2025 Violent Crimes Comparison from the Honolulu Police, which shows improvements in crime records.  First of all, there has been a remarkable improvement in forcible sex offenses. In 2025 so far, the forcible sexual assault cases recorded are 159, and in 2024, the recorded sexual assaults for the same time period were 230.  Again, the number of murders and non-negligent manslaughter has gone down to 1 in 2025 from 11 in 2024.  Also, the aggravated assault cases have gone down to 247 in 2025 from 254 in 2024. However, the number of robbery cases has slightly increased, with 128 cases reported so far in 2025, compared to 127 cases during the same period in 2024.  So, Hawaii is now safer than the Bahamas when planning a family vacation. Where To Stay In Hawaii Vs Bahamas?  Hawaii and the Bahamas are both known for their luxury hotel and resort experiences. Further, some really big names offer their hospitality services in these locations. Luxury Hotels To Stay In The Bahamas Luxury Hotels To Stay In HawaiiGrand Hyatt Baha MarAtlantisHilton at Resorts World Bimini Holiday Inn Express & Suites NassauHilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach ResortHyatt Centric Waikiki BeachThe Laylow, Autograph Collection Holiday Inn Express Waikiki Hawaii Vs Bahamas: It’s All About The Experience From Oahu, the best Hawaii island to visit, to Paradise Island in the Bahamas, there is no dearth of attractions for tourists in these locations.  So, we have done a Hawaii vs Bahamas comparison based on three factors: luxury accommodation, food scenes, and the places to visit.  Hawaii Vs Bahamas Luxury Accommodation  You already know that many luxury hotel brands have their presence in the Bahamas and Hawaii.  Also, for a more opulent experience, you can choose luxury resorts with private beaches in both locations.  Overall, in terms of elegance, comfort, and convenience, both places score equally in luxury accommodations. Hawaii Vs Bahamas Food Scenes You will fall in love with local delicacies such as Garlic Shrimp and Kalua Pork in Hawaii. For the most authentic culinary experience, you must choose the local eateries.  These eateries offer the best of local flavors at affordable prices. So, you can use your money to engage in more adventurous activities in Hawaii.  The Bahamas, on the other hand, allows you to taste the best Conch Fritters and Plantain Fries. Here, too, you can opt for local eateries instead of high-end dining places for the ultimate Bahamian delight. Hawaii Vs Bahamas Tourist Attractions/Places To Visit Some top tourist attractions in Hawaii include Pearl Harbor National Memorial, Waimea Canyon State Park, the USS Arizona Memorial, Iolani Palace, Waikiki Beach, and Oahu Beach, among others.  The best places to visit in the Bahamas are Paradise Island, Nassau, Exuma Cays, Harbour Island, Bimini Islands, and Freeport. Is Hawaii Or Bahamas Cheaper? Setting Your Budget Right  The Bahamian Dollar, or the Bahamian currency, now has an exchange rate of 1=0.99 USD. Therefore, there will be little to no difference in travel costs between these two places.  In fact, the rates of flights from many parts of the United States to the Bahamas are cheaper than those to Hawaii.  However, the public transportation system in Hawaii is more developed than that in the Bahamas.  Additionally, Hawaii offers a wider range of accommodations at various price points than the Bahamas.  On average, a trip to the Bahamas will cost around $760, while a trip to Hawaii will cost approximately $670. And The Winner Is… Now, this is tough! The Hawaii vs Bahamas comparison as vacation spots has once again shown that both places are great tropical destinations.  Further, both places boast a wonderful fusion of history and natural beauty. Also, both places are ideal for culinary tourism.  However, a trip to Hawaii will be a little less costly as the accommodation options are diverse. Moreover, the rising crime rate in the Bahamas is a serious concern. So, solely based on the safety parameter, Hawaii is a better vacation spot for now!