hawaii beaches and tours

[OldinJersey]

A friend who usually cruises is going to be on a land only vacation in Maui and Oahu. She uses a full size scooter and will have a car to hold the scooter, which breaks down into smaller parts.

 

Anyone know which beaches are best for her, and any suggestions on tours that don't have hiking as major component?

 

She is highly rated scuba diver, though she may not be able to dive this time.

 

thanks!

[Splinter]

Non-hiking tours for Maui:

 

-Drive the Hana Road. Plan for 8-10 hours round trip.

-Drive up to Haleakala. If possible do this in time to see the sunrise from the top of the mountain (which means starting the drive about 3AM).

-Go to the Maui Ocean Center aquarium. Very accessible, wonderful exhibits, nice place for lunch.

There are a number of fairly accessible beaches just south and north of Lahaina. If she can walk a short distance, she can check these out from the road.

 

For Oahu:

-Drive all the way round the island. We like to do this starting from the Honolulu and going counter-clockwise.

-You can combine the drive above with a visit to the Polynesian Cultural Center, although it will make for a long day. Very accessible

-Take in the aquarium in Honolulu. It is smaller, but very nice, and you can walk back along Waikiki to see some of the sights there and shop if desired. Driving in Honolulu (and parking) is a major pain. Consider taking The Bus there as all are fully accessible.

-Visit Punch Bowl National Cemetary. Not only a patriotic and moving location, but it has one of the best views of the Honolulu area from an accessible viewing area.

 

I don't know about any beaches that have beach chairs in Maui, but there are several in Oahu. Some of these are also good snorkeling locatiions: http://www.honolulu.gov/parks/programs/beach/index.htm

 

As far as scuba, she might find it easiest to go on a commercial boat trip. Some will be able to accomodate her scooter, and help her in and out of the water. You would need to check with the individual vendor.