6 Ways to Boost Your Health in Hawaii

1 FRESH IS BEST

It’s easy to eat fresh in the islands, where you can enjoy an abundance of fresh fruits (try the local pineapple and lilikoi, similar to passionfruit), just-husked coconut and catch-of-the-day seafood. Seek out the local treat, shave ice, made with fresh fruit and juice toppings, in place of artificial syrups. For breakfast, pick up an açaí bowl from one of the vendors near Fort DeRussy Beach Park.

2 HEALING HANDS

Book in for a relaxing massage in Hawaii and you’ll walk away a convert of the lomilomi style. The word ‘lomilomi’ means massage in the local dialect, referring specifically to the full body treatment that uses long, flowing strokes and plenty of oil to calm the mind and body. A tradition throughout Polynesia, lomilomi is thought to have been brought to Hawaii more than 1,500 years ago.

3 TAKE A HIKE

Hawaii is a fantastic destination for hiking, with trails suitable for all fitness levels on each of the main islands. Look no further than Diamond Head State Monument, just beyond Waikiki, for an easy hike with spectacular views. Advance reservations now required. Kauai has some of the best hiking in the world. If you visit, make plans to explore the Nā Pali coastline on foot.

4 MAKE A SPLASH

If there’s one wardrobe essential you must pack for a holiday in Hawaii, it’s something to swim in. Nothing shakes off the jetlag like an energising dip in Waikiki Beach, where swimmers and surfers congregate from sunrise to sunset. Dial up the action with a surfing lesson, paddleboard session or kayaking experience. Some of the best waves are on the North Shore of Oahu.

5 EVERYBODY SAY OM

Visitors to the islands may find themselves signing up for sunrise yoga, even if they haven’t touched a mat in years. The peaceful spirit of aloha, coupled with pleasant weather and beautiful outdoor practice spaces explain why. Several resorts offer complimentary classes for guests. For a deeper dive, look into multi-day yoga retreats on Maui and the Big Island.

6 ISLAND FRAGRANCE

Breathe in the sweet smell of the tropics. Local ‘alohatherapy’ bodycare brands use organic and floral essences, including tiare (gardenia), plumeria (frangipani), vanilla, coconut and mango to create healing scrubs, balms and oils. Highly recommended is Malie (pronounced mah-lee-ay), an organic and natural brand of handcrafted hair, body and home products.