8 Destinations That Evoke the Spirit of Hawaii

Hawaii’s serene beaches, dramatic sunsets, and lush landscapes have long cemented its place as a bucket-list destination. However, with the islands facing challenges from over-tourism and rising travel costs, many travelers are seeking alternatives that offer similar experiences without the drawbacks. From the crystal-clear waters of French Polynesia to the culturally rich shores of Puerto Rico, these eight destinations provide tropical beauty, adventure, and relaxation with their own unique twists.

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Located on the east coast of Central America in the heart of the Caribbean Basin, Belize is an easy trek for Americans for all sorts of reasons.

It's the only country in Central America where English is the official language. It's easy to comprehend how much everything costs because the Belize dollar has a fixed exchange rate where $2 BZ = $1 USD. Even still, many vendors still accept USD as a currency anyway.

To get there, you must have a passport valid for at least three months after the date of arrival and a return ticket, but U.S. citizens don't need a visa.

As far as flights, some of the biggest cities for nonstop flights are Atlanta, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Los Angeles, Miami, Minneapolis, Newark, New York, Seattle, Calgary and Toronto. And as of late December 2024, United runs nonstop flights between San Francisco and Belize, too.

It's a destination best for adventure travelers, with high-octane activities such as cave tubing, windsports and diving. But even "adventure" doesn't necessitate small spaces, or going extremely high or low off the ground. Belize is also popular for bird-watching, hiking and fishing.

Located in the South Pacific, French Polynesia is a collection of islands that offers an experience akin to Hawaii with its vibrant marine life, luxurious resorts, and unspoiled natural landscapes. Renowned for its overwater villas, properties like The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort and Conrad Bora Bora allow guests to step directly into turquoise lagoons.

Accessible via direct flights to Tahiti from Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle, this island chain is relatively convenient for U.S. travelers. From Papeete, the capital, you can explore iconic islands like Bora Bora and Moorea. French Polynesia blends luxury, adventure, and jaw-dropping scenery, making it a prime Hawaii alternative.

» Learn more: St. Regis Bora Bora vs. Conrad Bora Bora: Which is better?

For East Coast travelers, the U.S. Virgin Islands—comprising St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John—offer a tropical retreat without the lengthy flight to Hawaii. These islands combine pristine beaches, vibrant marine ecosystems, and a variety of lodging options, from vacation rentals to all-inclusive resorts.

As a U.S. territory, the Virgin Islands simplify travel: the dollar is the currency, English is the official language, and U.S. citizens don’t need a passport to visit. Whether you're snorkeling in St. John’s Virgin Islands National Park or enjoying duty-free shopping in St. Thomas, the islands deliver a laid-back, accessible escape.

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Guam may not be on every traveler’s radar, but it offers much of Hawaii’s tropical charm with its own distinct culture and history. A U.S. territory in the Pacific, Guam features stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and affordable accommodations.

United Airlines’ famed Island Hopper route connects Guam to Honolulu, making the journey part of the adventure. Once there, visitors can explore World War II landmarks, indulge in Chamorro cuisine, and enjoy the ease of using U.S. dollars. For a more budget-friendly option with a touch of the exotic, Guam is a worthy contender.

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If distance isn’t a concern, the Maldives provides a level of luxury that rivals Hawaii. This Indian Ocean archipelago is famous for its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, and overwater villas. Major hotel chains, including Hilton, Hyatt, and Marriott, allow travelers to redeem points for stays at some of the world’s most luxurious properties.

The Maldives pairs unparalleled relaxation with world-class snorkeling and diving opportunities. While it requires a longer journey, the reward is an idyllic escape perfect for honeymooners and anyone seeking ultimate tranquility.

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Cabo San Lucas combines Hawaii’s dramatic landscapes with exceptional accessibility. Located on the tip of Baja California, Cabo offers everything from luxurious resorts like Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal to affordable beachfront Airbnbs.

With direct flights from over 25 U.S. airports, including Los Angeles and New York, Cabo is within easy reach. Visitors can enjoy whale watching, snorkeling, and desert adventures, making it a versatile destination for all types of travelers.

» Learn more: Cabo vs. Cancun: Which is best?

Puerto Rico mirrors many of Hawaii’s charms, from vibrant rainforests to pristine beaches. For East Coast travelers, it’s a much shorter journey, with direct flights reducing travel time by half compared to Hawaii.

The island’s offerings are diverse: visitors can explore the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan, kayak through bioluminescent bays, or hike in El Yunque National Forest. As a U.S. territory, Puerto Rico offers the convenience of domestic travel with the added allure of its rich, distinctive culture.

» Learn more: Puerto Rico vs. Hawaii for travel

Known as the "Pearl of the Atlantic," Madeira offers a blend of lush landscapes, dramatic coastlines, and rich cultural traditions that rival Hawaii’s allure. This Portuguese archipelago is located off the northwest coast of Africa and boasts year-round mild weather, making it an ideal escape in any season.

For travelers seeking a laid-back yet luxurious escape in the heart of Madeira, Portugal, Calheta Beach Hotel offers a family-friendly, all-inclusive experience. As one of Madeira's few beachfront properties, Calheta Beach Hotel gives guests direct access to calm, sheltered waters — perfect for families seeking to go swimming, paddle boarding or sun-bathing.

Madeira’s natural beauty is its hallmark, with volcanic peaks, terraced vineyards, and the iconic Laurisilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can hike along the island's levadas—historic irrigation channels turned scenic trails—or bask in the sun at Praia Formosa, a popular pebble beach. For a more adventurous experience, try canyoning in Madeira’s rugged ravines or whale watching in the surrounding Atlantic waters.

Funchal, the capital, adds a cultural dimension with its vibrant markets, historic architecture, and culinary delights, including the famous Madeira wine. Accessible via direct flights from several European cities, Madeira is a gem for travelers seeking Hawaii-like scenery with a European twist.

While Hawaii remains a quintessential tropical paradise, these destinations provide equally compelling alternatives. Whether you’re drawn to the turquoise lagoons of French Polynesia, the affordability of Guam, or the cultural vibrancy of Puerto Rico, the world is full of places that capture Hawaii’s spirit while offering unique experiences all their own.