With Grandparents Day observed today, what better time to propose and start planning a grandparents-grandkids trip?

Susan Avery, senior editor of grandparents.com, a new online community launching this month to help grandparents connect with their grandchildren, recently shared her favorite travel picks with Kathy Baruff for USA Today.

And an excursion to at least one of the top destinations would require Hawaii residents much less time and expense than the others — it's right in Waikiki.

CAMP RICHARDSON RESORT

LAKE TAHOE, CALIF.

"This is old Lake Tahoe. The rustic lodgings, without telephones or TVs, are reminiscent of a simpler, quiet life," Avery says. Sheltered by pines on the southwestern shore of the lake, the resort offers a choice of tent campsites, cabins, RV sites or a historic hotel. Rent boats at the marina, ride bikes together on miles of paved paths or sit on the deck at the resort's Beacon Bar & Grill and admire the changing colors. 800-544-1801; www.camprichardson.com

RIVER RUN CANOE & CAMPING

BROWNFIELD, MAINE

"The calmness of the Saco River makes it an easy paddle for all different ages," Avery says. It's one of the most popular recreational rivers in the state, and the sandy bottom of the Saco is inviting for a swim. Go ashore to picnic or camp on a sandbar along the way. Bring your own equipment or have this outfitter gear you up and provide shuttle service to a starting point. 207-452-2500; www.riverruncanoe.com

ARLINGTON RESORT HOTEL & SPA

HOT SPRINGS, ARK.

"Go fishing," Avery says. "The size of a catch doesn't matter to children; what matters is bonding with their grandparents. It's about spending a few stress-free hours together in the great outdoors, side by side." Bass and crappie abound in the clean water at Lake Ouachita State Park, only half an hour from this historic downtown hotel. Tour a bathhouse, buy art or relax on a bench and people-watch. 800-643-1502; www.arlingtonhotel.com

L'ENFANT PLAZA HOTEL

WASHINGTON, D.C.

"This classy, family-friendly hotel is a short walk to the National Mall and the Metro (subway)," Avery says. Washington, D.C., "is a great destination, but you have to know your child and make sure he or she has the right temperament, at the right age, to visit. Every bit of the trip is an educational one." Avery's must-sees: the International Spy Museum and the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing to discover how money is made — literally. 800-635-5065; www.lenfantplazahotel.com

CAMELBACK INN

PARADISE VALLEY, ARIZ.

"New generations continue to inherit the family tradition of vacationing together at this popular 125-acre hotel," Avery says. The wide-open Southwest terrain provides plenty of opportunities for bike riding or strolling the desert landscape known for its stunning light. The big complex of pools has something for everybody, and there's a golf course surrounded by desert wildlife and plants. Hopalong College, the program for children ages 6-12, has exploratory outdoor activities and cooking classes. 800-242-2635; www.camelbackinn.com

PARADISE GUEST RANCH

BUFFALO, WYO.

"The dude-ranch experience is so complete here there's no reason to ever leave," Avery says. It's all about enjoying the ranch, without any of the hassles of getting to museums and restaurants. Programs for kids of all ages range from pony rides to special overnight campouts. Or just sit by the pool. 307-684-7876; www.paradiseranch.com

OTESAGA RESORT HOTEL

COOPERSTOWN, N.Y.

"A lot of families have come here for generations," Avery says. "It's like home, and the lobby is their living room." Visit the National Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum or the Farmers' Museum, where interpreters portray the occupations and rhythms of everyday living in the 19th century. There's also the Fenimore Art Museum and the world-class Glimmerglass Opera. 800-348-6222; www.otesaga.com

HOTEL LE BRISTOL

PARIS

"A trip to Paris is ultra-hip. It's especially well-suited for teens because of their appreciation level," Avery says. "Stay at the Bristol — it's great." In addition to seeing some of the world's greatest artworks at the Louvre, grandparents and grandkids should check out the Natural History Museum and Jardin des Plantes, the botanical garden on the museum's grounds. Otherwise, just stolling down the streets of Paris has its own appeal. www.hotel-bristol.com

DISNEY'S BOARDWALK RESORT

LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLA.

"Explore nearby Epcot from this lovely hotel," Avery says. "Epcot has all the excitement of a world's fair. It's like taking a trip around the world and sampling the fine food along the way. Guests walk or take boats crisscrossing Seven Seas Lagoon. Chefs come from around the world to make authentic dishes from their country. The result is absolutely top-notch." 407-824-4321; www.disneyworld.com

THE HILTON HAWAIIAN VILLAGE BEACH RESORT & SPA

OAHU, HAWAII

"There's a Super Pool landscaped with lava rock waterfalls. On the grounds near the lobby, the kids can see more than 30 species of wildlife, including super-popular penguins, ibises, flamingos and a variety of birds and fish," Avery says. Take the children to the Aloha Friday King's Jubilee, a hula show followed by fireworks over Waikiki. 800-445-8667; www.hiltonhawaiianvillage.com

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