Hawaii is known for its idyllic locations, spectacular sunsets, and incredible ocean views, all of which make it an enviable destination for visitors. But with the state struggling with the effects of overtourism and rising prices for accommodation, you may want to look elsewhere for your next vacation.
Check out 6 places to visit like Hawaii, including French Polynesia and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
6 Alternatives to Hawaii
1. French Polynesia
Also located in the southwestern part of California, French Polynesia is a chain of islands similar to Hawaii. This French territory has all the amenities you’d expect from a tropical getaway, including luxury resorts, bucket-list diving spots, and unspoiled natural beauty.
French Polynesia shines as a particularly photogenic vacation spot. Hotels like the Conrad Bora Bora and the St. Regis Bora Bora Resort can be booked with points, but what’s even better is that they have overwater villas that allow you to dive directly into the ocean.
There are direct flights to the main island of Tahiti from Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle, making it fairly accessible for U.S. travelers. It takes approximately 8.5 hours to reach Papeete (the capital). From there, you can choose to stay in Tahiti or travel to islands such as Bora Bora, Moorea, and Faa’a.
2. US Virgin Islands
If you live on the East Coast, the U.S. Virgin Islands may appeal to you as a place similar to Hawaii. Consisting of St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John (and a number of smaller islands), this Hawaiian alternative is easily accessible from the mainland United States.
You’ll find all types of accommodations in the U.S. Virgin Islands, from vacation rentals to all-inclusive resorts.
Its status as a U.S. territory also brings many benefits. The official language is English, the currency is the US dollar, and you do not need a passport to visit as a US citizen. How easy is that?
3. Guam
Another remote island destination, Guam has probably never been on your travel list, but it should be. This US territory has a rich history, including strong military importance during World War II. Location-wise, the Philippines is much closer than the United States.
However, that doesn’t mean it’s difficult to get there. United Airlines operates its famous “Island Hopper” route from Honolulu, making several short stops as it delivers supplies to the islands. In addition to the stunning scenery, running the Island Hopper is a great treat for travelers.
U.S. territories like the Virgin Islands use U.S. currency, so you don’t need a passport to travel. English is also one of the many languages you will hear and use while traveling.
In terms of being a place similar to Hawaii, Guam has all the beaches, tropical climate, and resorts, but it holds its own in terms of affordable housing and living.
If you’re looking for a place like Hawaii, but cheaper, Guam is the place to be.
4. Maldives
The Maldives is a vast archipelago located off the coast of India. Yes, it’s a trek, but once you step onto this island nation’s pristine white beaches, the journey is worth the effort.
Home to some of the world’s most luxurious resorts, the Maldives offers the complete relaxation often found in Hawaii.
🤓Otaku Tips
The Maldives is expensive, but hotel chains like Hilton, Hyatt, and Marriott allow you to redeem points for stays in the Maldives.
Add to the abundance of world-class snorkeling and overwater villas, and it’s easy to see why so many people make the pilgrimage to the Maldives.
5. Cabo San Lucas
Cabo, the only non-island location on the list, was chosen for its proximity to the United States, climate, landscape, and infrastructure. Cabo San Lucas is located at the tip of the Baja California Peninsula and offers a variety of activities no matter your vacation style.
You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to where to stay and what to do in Cabo. There are ultra-luxury resorts like the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal, but it’s just as possible to spend a week in a beachfront Airbnb for just over $100 a night.
Cabo is also very well connected to the US, with direct flights to 25 US airports. This includes the West Coast, where the flight to Los Angeles takes just two and a half hours, and the East Coast, where the flight from New York-EWR takes him just over five hours.
6. Puerto Rico
Hawaii and Puerto Rico are both popular tropical destinations and have many similarities.
For East Coast-based travelers, this will cut your travel time by more than half (when comparing flights from Puerto Rico to Honolulu).
Prices are comparable to or more affordable than Puerto Rico, activities range from land to sea, wildlife is abundant, and historical tourism is alive and well.
That being said, the main difference between Puerto Rico and Hawaii is the culture that visitors can experience.
Need an alternative to Hawaii?
I understand that. Hawaii is a dream vacation for many reasons, including lush forests, immaculate beaches, and great water activities. However, if you want to go on vacation, there is no reason to limit yourself to Hawaii and its islands. Instead, choose one of her five choices below and enjoy a similar experience elsewhere.
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