BRRR!! For many parts of the country winter has come early and the snow has already started to fall. Just the other day I heard that parts of North Dakota received over 2 feet of snow. Personally, I think it's just a bit early to be shoveling that much snow. It is now that you need to be planning a winter getaway to Hawaii. Lush gardens, tropical climate and some of the best golf courses in the world are just a few of the highlights you will experience on these islands.

One of my favorite islands to visit is Maui, also known as the "Garden Isle." The PGA Tour visits the Plantation Course at Kapalua every year. This golf course is both long and challenging and includes wide fairways and undulating greens. Golf courses in Hawaii typically have bermuda-turfed greens that can be difficult to putt if you are not familiar with them. Before you tee off be sure to ask the staff for any local knowledge that might help with reading the greens. The Plantation Course sits on a high bluff on the island. This dramatic height provides for some great views of the ocean and foliage of the area.

On my last visit to the island I had the chance to go to the top of Mount Haleakala. I arrived at the top of this dormant volcano at around 3:30 in the morning for a brisk bike ride down the mountain. Let me tell you it certainly was cold at the top, only around 40 degrees. Our tour guide provided us with warm clothing and then pointed our bikes down the hill. If you get the chance I would recommend using one of the many companies that offer this fun and exciting time. Outings like this provide some variety to most other beach-centered activities on the island.

One of the highest-rated golf courses in Hawaii is the Princeville Resort located on Kauai. There are two golf courses located at this resort - the Prince Course and the Makai Course. For years the Prince Course has been rated the best public golf course in Hawaii. This golf course was designed by famed architect Robert Trent Jones, Jr., so you know you are in for a real treat when playing this course. This links-style golf course meanders through lush hillsides with some dramatic elevation changes and is always in good shape. Plus this is a great opportunity to hop a flight to another island.

The Makai Course, built in 1971, is currently undergoing some renovations to bring it more fully into the modern era. There are 27 holes at this golf course. Currently the Ocean and the Lakes sides are closed while the Woods course will be open throughout the entire renovation. In addition to changing the grass of the golf course to a Seashore Paspalum they will also be changing many of the greens and reshaping of the bunkers.

Hawaii is a great place to visit and enjoy. Children of all ages will have a great time on the golf courses, beaches, and other fun activities on the islands.

Other great winter destinations:

Las Vegas, Nevada

Scottsdale, Arizona

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico