EDGE's Places to Go in 2017: Hawaii

This feature is part of EDGE's third annual Seven Gay Wonders of the World. This year's edition is "luxury" so be sure to check out our other decadent picks for the year!

While we love Hawaii for its pristine beaches and dreamy landscapes, the state is also a trailblazer for LGBT equality. Act 135 ensures that transgender people in Hawaii have equal access to health services, while the recently passed CARE Act will strengthen resources for LGBT seniors and their families of choice in relation to health care.

For those headed to Hawaii to scope out early retirement or simply unplug, plan on plenty of time, multiple islands and a reputable authority, like luxury tour operator Island Destinations, to create a bespoke itinerary.

Double Dip
Whether you want to get wet in the Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club's hand-painted pool or stroll to Oahu's southern shores, this new boutique property offers a "modern aloha" style, including private lanais and yoga in the penthouse. Get a taste of island life with an immersive farm excursion curated by James Beard Award-winning chef Ed Kenney, who helms the on-site Mahina & Sun's.

Go With the Flow
Gay-owned KapohoKine Adventures will take you to Kilauea Volcano on the Island of Hawaii, which has been oozing molten lava at an Instagram-worthy rate all year. The 10-hour epic adventure includes a picnic dinner and expert guidance throughout the Puna District's most coveted viewing locations.

Island Pride
Mark your calendar for the Hawaii LGBT Legacy Foundation's annual Pride in October 2017, when Waikiki hosts 14 days celebrating diversity and inclusion, culminating in a parade and festival at Diamond Head Greens.

Fly in Style
Cozy up in Hawaiian Airlines' newly launched Premium Cabin, featuring design inspiration drawn from Hawaii's natural resources, Italian leather seats that recline to a 180-degree flatbed and in-flight cuisine from celebrated local chefs such as Andrew Le and Sheldon Simeon. You may be tempted to steal the new Sig Zane-designed flight attendant uniforms that recently premiered at Honolulu Fashion Week.