The long coastlines of Kihei are the perfect spot for active recreation. Join a volleyball game, or grab a surfboard and ride the waves — but do so responsibly, as afternoons can get very windy here.

Gulangyu Island, just a quick five-minute ferry ride from Xiamen, is a living museum of 19th-century trade and culture. Once a hub for merchants and diplomats, it became home to grand mansions built by Chinese and foreign traders taking advantage of Xiamen’s open port status. The island’s car-free streets are a joy to wander, weaving through colonial-style villas, leafy gardens, and striking architecture that blends European and Chinese influences. Ferries can get busy, especially on weekends and holidays, so booking your ticket two to three days in advance is a smart move. Once you’re there, take your time exploring the quieter corners, enjoying the local seafood, or visiting attractions like the Piano Museum or Sunlight Rock for panoramic views.

Once the home of Houston philanthropist Ima Hogg, Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens is now a museum showcasing an incredible collection of early American decorative arts. The 28-room mansion features furniture, paintings, and antiques from 1620 to 1870. Beyond the museum, the beautifully manicured gardens and surrounding woodlands offer a peaceful escape, perfect for a quiet stroll.