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Hawaii Travel Guide

Last Updated: April 15, 2024

Hawai’i is a post-card-perfect group of islands located 2,500 miles off the west coast of mainland USA.

It’s a popular getaway for surfers, honeymooners, hikers, and anyone looking to slow down and enjoy the slower pace of island life. The beauty of Hawai’i lies in the land (or Aina ), people, and indigenous culture. As a visitor, it’s essential to understand Hawai’i’s complex and painful history and, as with all places, treat this place with an abundance of respect.

With several islands to choose from, Hawai’i has something for every traveler. From the surfing on O’ahu, to the wonders of Maui, to the beauty of Honolulu, to the hidden gems on Lana’i, Hawai’i is a boundless tropical escape. There are beautiful beaches, amazing jungles, stunning waterfalls, excellent diving, and world-class waves.

I love the relaxed atmosphere, the fresh tropical fruit and delicious seafood, and the endless supply of outdoor activities. Hawai’i is the paradise you think it will be. Owing to its Asian and Polynesian roots, Hawai’i offers an intriguing balance of feeling like you’re in a foreign land while also being in the United States . It’s a balance between the three that makes Hawai’i feel like a cultural waystation.

This travel guide to Hawai’i can help you plan an affordable and enjoyable trip — no matter what island you choose!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Hawai’i

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Hawai’i

1. Visit Pearl Harbor

The Japanese attack on the American navy in Pearl Harbor brought the United States into World War II in 1941. The Pearl Harbor National Memorial on O’ahu is centered around the wreckage of the USS Arizona, the bombed ship that marks the resting place of 1,102 marines and sailors. To see the sunken ship and visit the memorial built over top of it, you’ll need to take a scheduled ferry that requires advance reservations at a $1 fee. Book these early as they fill up fast and lines for a day-of ticket can be hours long. Admission to the memorial, visitors center, and museums is free.

2. Explore Hawai’I Volcanoes National Park

The Big Island is home to two of the worl’’s largest volcanoes, including the very active Kilauea (also known as the home of fire goddess Pele and very sacred to Native Hawaiians). It’s one of the most active volcanoes on Earth, and you can see its glow at night from the Halema’umau crater. Don’t miss N?huku, or the Thurston lava tube (a cave formed by lava that you can explore 24 hours a day) near the parking lot. The Chain of Craters is a scenic drive as it passes by several historic and active eruption sites. Just be sure to check the daily report on the condition of the road beforehand as it is frequently covered in ash. The national park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve in recognition of its unique natural value. Admission is $30 USD per vehicle, which gives you access to the park for 7 days. I suggest you start your visit at the Kilauea visitor center for a map, updates on the conditions of the day, and a schedule for guided tours.

3. Explore Honolulu

Honolulu, which means “sheltered harbor” in Hawaiian, is the state’s capital and largest city. It offers a unique blend of Asian, Hawaiian, and American cultures, making it a great foodie city, with tons of cheap noodle joints and fresh seafood places. If you’re in town for First Friday (the first Friday of the month), you can join one of the many street parties all over Chinatown. While based in Honolulu, hike Diamond Head, visit the historic Iolani Palace, stroll the cool Kaka’ako district, and hang out on the beach. Just avoid Waikiki, where the beach is man-made, overpriced, and the tourist crowds are overwhelming. If you’re ready to get out of the city Honolulu is a great base to take day trips out of and enjoy the scenic drives to the North Shore for a surf or to spot whales and through central Oahu for more vistas and to visit farms like the Dole pineapple plantation.

4. Stargaze at Mauna Kea

This dormant volcano is Hawai’’’s highest peak at 13,796 feet (4,207 meters), technically the world’s tallest mountain (just half of it is underwater) and a sacred site for native Hawaiians. It is over 1 million years old, and last erupted 4,000-6,000 years ago. Mauna Kea boasts a number of observatory domes that are home to the greatest collection of telescopes in the world, including one which played a big role in capturing the first image of a supermassive black hole in 2019. Stop at the visitor center to stargaze through the telescopes there or attend a free stargazing session held once a month. If you want to reach the summit, you must either rent a vehicle with 4WD or join a tour .

5. Go snorkeling or diving

Other things to see and do in hawai’i, 1. explore the waipi’o valley.

The lush wilderness of the Waipi’o Valley (Big Island) was once home to Hawaiian kings. Today, it’s covered with taro fields. Waipi’o is named for the river that cuts between the valley walls, giving way to waterfalls until eventually flowing into the ocean at a black sand beach. There are many trails here, but the main hike down into the valley takes you to the black sand beach and back up again. It’s 6.5 miles (10 kilometers) and strenuous but worth it.

2. Night dive with manta rays

On the Big Island, take a sunset cruise along the Kona coast to the Manta Ray Village. Here, you can swim with giant manta rays — some of which measure 18 feet (5.5 meters) in length and weigh up to 1,600 pounds (725 kilograms)! It’s one of the best spots in the world to swim with mantas. The manta rays feed off the phytoplankton and zooplankton, and they appear to glow underwater due to bioluminescence. Snorkel tours start at $115 USD while single-tank night dives start at $149 USD.

3. Go on a helicopter tour

For a birds-eye view of the islands in all their scenic beauty, take a helicopter tour. Fly over the lush rainforests and stark volcanic landscapes and admire the turquoise ocean from above. They aren’t cheap but they make for a fun once-in-a-lifetime experience to splash out on. Rides are usually 45-60 minutes long and focus on a single island. Kaua’i, O’ahu, Moloka’i and the Big Island all have incredible scenery to soak up. Helicopter tour prices start at $250USD per person. Paradise Helicopters and Blue Hawaiian are two of the biggest and longest-running tour operators. You can also do a scenic flight in a small plane with AirVentures for $155 USD.

4. Experience Merrie Monarch Week

The world’s biggest hula competition goes down in Hilo annually and is a week-long celebration of Hawaiian arts, language and culture. It’s named in honor of King David Kalakaua who revived hula and other art forms during his reign in the 1800’s when many were near extinction earned him the nickname “The Merry Monarch”. The festival is split between non-competitive events like fairs, markets and concerts around town which are free to attend, and the main hula competition where the top halau (schools) and individuals from all over the Pacific and even the mainland US battle for titles. It all ends in a huge royal parade around Hilo town. Tickets for the competition start at $10 and require a bit of work to get – you’ll have to mail a ticket request and your payment to the festival office before December for the April event, just like it has been for decades.

5. Hike the Waimea Canyon and Napali Coast

If you want to see why they call Kaua’i “The Garden Isle,” hike one of the many trails along the west side of the island. The trails are well marked and offer spectacular views of the canyon and coast as well as interesting tropical plants. Walk the 1.8-mile canyon trail in Waimea Canyon Park for breathtaking views along the canyon’s rim and end up at the Waipio’o Falls. North of the canyon,the Kalalau Trail is considered the most beautiful hike in Hawai’i, with 22 miles (35 kilometers) of trails across valleys, streams, and coastline. To do the entire trail, you’ll need to apply for a camping permit for Ha’ena State Park. Permits are $35 USD per person per day. Only 60 permits are given out per day and they get snatched up fast (reservations go up 90 days in advance). You can also get a day-use pass for the park which grants you access to a 6-hour parking time slot ($10 per timeslot plus $5 entry/person, with limited parking available). If that’s sold out, you have to take the shuttle which costs $40 USD but includes park entry.

6. Check out the Bishop Museum

The Bishop Museum on O’ahu is a Polynesian anthropological institute that showcases Hawai’i’s cultural art and artifacts. You could easily kill 3-4 hours here – it’s the largest museum in Hawai’i and home to the world’s largest collection of Polynesian artifacts. The Hawaiian Hall covers Hawaiian mythology (it has a stunning interior with beautiful wooden architecture). There’s also a science center for children and a planetarium with exhibits about early Hawaiians navigating the Pacific Ocean using the stars, and more recent work on astronomy on the islands. Admission is $33.95 USD. If you want to visit the planetarium, tickets are an additional $3 with your admission to the museum.

7. Go river tubing in Kaua’i

On Kaua’i, you can go backcountry river-tubing. You’ll drive through abandoned sugar cane plantations into the lush forests of the interior and then float down a series of canals in an old irrigation system from the 19th century. You’ll catch views of Mt. Wai’ale’ale, the second highest mountain on Kaua’i before you even get into the water. As you travel down the river, you pass through dark tunnels and lush rainforest landscapes. The entire journey will take three hours as you float for 2.5 miles. The day ends with a picnic and a chance to enjoy one of the islands natural swimming spots. Kaua’i Backcountry Adventures offer tours starting from $156 USD and last around three hours. Drinks and lunch are included.

8. Drive the scenic road to Hana

If you’re on Maui, driving the winding road to Hana is a must. It’s a twisty, hairpin-turn journey along the coast with lots of scenic viewpoints,waterfalls, hiking trails, and food stalls. Make sure you stop at the Oheo Gulch and spend time hiking the Pipiwai Trail to the 400-foot (121-meter) Waimoku Falls. It’s just a four-mile (6.5-kilometer) trek and you get to see some massive banyan trees along the way. You can either start early in the day and give yourself 8-9 hours to cover a few stops, or stay a night or two in Hana to break up the drive (if you’re self-driving). Tours with experienced drivers and guides are also available to book if you prefer to sit back and sight-see. (For another scenic drive, check out the Kahekili Highway. It’s less busy, has hairpin turns, and has plenty of sights to see too (such as the Nakalele Blowhole).)

9. Tour a coffee plantation

Hawai’i is one of the few places in the USA where coffee is grown. For an in-depth coffee plantation tour, head to the Kuaiwi Farm in Kona on Big Island. You’ll learn all about the coffee process from beginning to end, as well as how a variety of other organic staples are grown, including cacao, pineapples, and bananas. Tours are $35 USD and include samples. Several other farms like Hala Tree and Kona Coffee Living History Farm offer different tours and tasting experiences that start at $20.. There’s even a 10-day annual coffee festival in Kona every November featuring music and dance performances, a cupping competition, farm experiences and more to celebrate the island’s long and unique coffee culture.

10. Learn to surf

Surfing is huge in Hawai’i. O’ahu North Shore is especially popular with surfers of all levels and major competitions are often held here. November through February is considered big wave season on the North Shore and is a great place to see the pros. Beginners will want to start on the South Shore where the waves aren’t quite so large. If you want to learn how to surf, sign up for some classes (or even a multi-day surf camp). Group classes are generally around $100 USD . North Shore O’ahu Surf School has some great instructors and offers private classes for both beginners and advanced surfers. You can expect to pay $200 for a two-hour lesson. You can find surfboard rentals around the islands for around $25-40 USD per day or $125-150 USD per week.

11. See the sunrise at Haleakala

Haleakala is a 10,023-foot (3,055-meter) dormant volcano on Maui offering one of the most spectacular sunrises you’ll ever see. It’s really, really cold at the top (bring gloves and a hat) and the drive up is precarious but the views over Maui at the top are worth it. You can also do the challenging 12-mile (19-kilometer) volcano hike across flower farms, pine forests, and pebbly volcanic landscapes. It’s super easy to do on your own, however, tours are also available (they last 9 hours and start at $220 USD). If you’re traveling from the mainland, do this on one of your first days as your jetlag will work in your favor so you can wake up early with ease.

12. Hike Diamond Head

Located on the eastern end of Waikiki, Diamond Head is O’ahu’s most famous landmark. This dormant volcano and its extinct crater were created during a volcanic eruption over 300,000 years ago. You can hike to the scenic lookout point at the top for panoramic views over Honolulu. The trail is just .8 miles (1.2 kilometers) long, but it’s incredibly steep, so wear your most comfortable shoes. The hike is so popular that you’ll want to start as early in the morning as possible (before the busloads of tourists show up). It’s just $5 USD to visit and parking is $10 USD per vehicle, but you must make reservations (you can reserve up to 14 days in advance).

13. Hike the Ka’iwa Ridge

This hike is better known as the Lanikai Pillbox Trail because you’ll hike by military observation stations from the 1940s (they’re not actually pillboxes as they were never used for defensive purposes). It’s a moderately steep, 1.8-mile (2.9-kilometer) hike that takes you to the ridge overlooking the crystal blue waters of Lanikai and Kailua beaches. There’s no shade so it’s best to do this hike in the early morning or late afternoon. While Diamond Head may be more convenient if you’re staying in Waikiki, the drive out to this hike is well worth it.

14. Hit the beach

It’s hard to find a bad beach to hang out on in Hawai’i. Most of them have powder-white sands, swaying palm trees, and epic sunsets. Check out Papakolea Beach/Green Sand Beach (Big Island), Kailua Beach (O’ahu), Ala Moana Beach Park (O’ahu), Makena Beach (Maui), Hanalei Beach (Kaua’i), Polihua Beach (Lana’i), and Kaanapali Beach (Maui), to name a few. There’s so much stunning coastline in Hawai’i and you can often just pull your car over and relax on any random beach without it getting too overcrowded.

15. See Hilo

Hilo is the busiest town on Big Island and its historic downtown area is chock full of galleries, museums, shops, and restaurants. Spend a few hours at the ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center or the Hawaii Museum of Contemporary Art for regular exhibitions. The Hilo Brewing Company has a tasting room for craft beer fans to try out their brews made on site and serves cocktails too. One of the town’s must-see highlights is the Farmer’s Market, which is open seven days a week but there are especially large markets every Wednesday and Saturday. You’ll find everything from fresh fruit to smoothies to handmade jewelry here, and there are often musicians and street performers too. Be sure to walk around the Liliuokalani Gardens and enjoy its Japanese rock gardens and pagodas (admission is free). Also, don’t miss Two Ladies Kitchen, which has some of the best and freshest mochi (Japanese rice cake) you’ll find outside of Japan.

16. Explore Lana’i

Known as Pineapple Island, Lana’i is the 6th smallest island in Hawai’i. It’s also the smallest publicly accessible inhabited island too (just over 3,000 people live here). The island is a 45-minute ferry from Maui and is home to beautiful beaches, scenic nature trails (Munro and Naha are two popular trails), and a couple of golf courses. It’s a relaxing place to get away for a day or two if you want to avoid the crowds. Consider renting a 4×4 jeep or hiking the Kealia Kapu-Kaunolu Village Heritage Trail. If you’re visiting on a day trip, take the first ferry in and the last one out to maximize your time.

17. Visit Moloka’i

This is the 5th smallest island and arguably the “most” Hawai’ian as it’s home to the highest number of native Hawai’ians per capita. With only 8,000 people here, it has a very rural feel and is very different from the tourist hubs of the larger islands. Located just north of Maui, it’s a short flight or ferry ride away – some people even take day trips to the island from Maui or Lanai. Don’t miss Kepuhi Beach, a popular spot to swim and surf and the famous hot bread from Kanemitsu Bakery. If you stay a few days the Halawa Valley guided hike and cultural tour is a must to get to know this sacred heart of the island with its cascading waterfalls, dramatic cliffs and astonishing views over black sand beaches.

Hawai’i Travel Costs

Hostel and camping prices – A bed in a 4-6-bed dorm costs $50-70 USD per night. For a room with 8 beds or more, expect to pay around $50-60 USD. Private rooms with a shared bathroom start around $100 USD per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and many hostels also include free breakfast, free shuttles to the beach, and free tours. Prices don’t vary much throughout the year.

Hawai’i also has lots of campgrounds. To stay at any of Hawai’i’s state parks (camping.ehawaii.gov), apply for a permit ($30 USD per night for non-residents for a campsite that can accommodate 4 people) at least a month in advance. Otherwise, you might not get a spot.

You can also find private campgrounds for as little as $10 USD per person. Some people recommend wild camping on beaches for free, but this isn’t actually allowed in most places due to the delicate environment. Plus, it’s too easy to wander onto sacred grounds, which is a big no-no.

Budget hotel prices – Hotel prices vary depending on where you are. Expect higher prices in the more touristy areas of Hawai’i, especially along Waikiki Beach and around Maui. Nightly rates for a budget two-star hotel room start at about $165 – 200 USD for places in Waikiki and Maui and go up from there. You can find rooms for $150-175 USD if you stick to the less touristy areas.

There are lots of Airbnb options around Hawai’i. Private rooms start at $70-90 USD per night while an entire home or apartment start at $150-200 USD per night. Expect to pay double if you don’t book well in advance.

Note : There are strict laws around short-term rentals in Hawai’i and each island has its own rules. Be mindful of this when booking.

Food – Hawai’ian food is a mix of Polynesian and mainland US influences, with other Asian influences (especially Japanese) thrown into the mix as well. Seafood is the main staple, with tuna, mahi-mahi, and wahoo being some of the most popular offerings. Pork and chicken are common as well (especially Kalua pig, which is slow-roasted pork cooked underground).

Poke (diced or cubed raw fish) is one of the most popular dishes as it mixes well with all kinds of fresh salads. Of course, you can also find numerous Spam dishes here as well. Spam was served to soldiers in World War II, owing to its long shelf life and the fact it didn’t need to be refrigerated. It evolved into a cultural staple from there.

For food on the go, hot dogs cost around $6 USD. A meal of poke or a hearty salad from a deli costs about $11 USD while a half-chicken is $10 USD. A classic Spam musubi starts at $3 USD. Drop by a 7-11 for a similar experience to a Japanese konbini with Hawai’ian delicacies.

You can find plates of chicken, rice, and salad (what locals call a “plate lunch”) for $10-15 USD. A big plate of garlic shrimp costs $15 USD. Vegetarian dishes cost about the same. Buffets on the islands start at $25 USD.

Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs $13 USD for a combo meal. A piña colada or wine costs $12-16 USD while a beer costs $8-12 USD. For a latte or cappuccino, expect to pay around $6 USD. Bottled water costs $2.50 USD.

At a typical sit-down restaurant serving Hawai’ian food, a main course starts at $30 USD for seafood or steak while pasta or vegetarian is only slightly cheaper at $20 USD for a dish. Burgers are $16-19 USD and soup and salad starters are about $12 USD.

A main dish at a Chinese takeout restaurant costs $12-14 USD while the same at a Thai place costs $15-17 USD.

If you have a bigger budget, a whole prix-fixe menu with three courses costs at least $50 USD, while a luau costs between $120-200 USD.

If you cook your own food, expect to pay $75-80 USD per week for groceries that include pasta, vegetables, chicken, and other basic staples. You can save money if you shop at discount stores such as Cost-U-Less (Big Island and Kaua’i), Don Quijote (O’ahu), and Big Save (Kaua’i), which offer reasonable prices for food and alcohol.

Backpacking Hawai’i Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Hawai’i, plan on spending around $85 USD per day. On this budget, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook all of your meals, do free activities like hiking and walking tours, limit your drinking, and take public transportation to get around.

On a mid-range budget of $255 USD per day, you can stay in a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out for most meals out at inexpensive restaurants serving traditional cuisine, do some surfing or diving, have a few drinks at the bar, and take the occasional taxi.

On a “luxury” budget of $490 USD per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out at nicer restaurants and have some drinks, take private guided tours, snorkel or dive, rent a car to get around, and do as many activities and excursions as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

Hawai’i Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Hawai’i is expensive. It’s a tourism hotspot, most of its food is imported, and there’s a LOT to see and do. But if you want to lower your costs, here are some ways to save money in Hawai’i:

• Pick an Island – On a budget, it’s unlikely you can realistically spend time on more than one or two islands in one trip. Inter-island flights can get expensive and there are only ferries between Maui-Lanai and Maui-Molokai, so you might need want to prioritize.
• Stay at Maui’s Banana Bungalow for free tours – The Banana Bungalow on Maui runs daily free tours, covering most of the island’s highlights. Cut costs by staying here.
• Travel off-season – Traveling during low seasons (mid-April to mid-June and mid-September to mid-December) can save you money on lodging and flights. Prices are usually about 20-30% cheaper.
• Buy local – Due to high import costs, many products and groceries can be expensive. Instead, take advantage of the plethora of local produce and goods. A great way to find them is at farmers’ markets all across the islands. Not only do they sell fresh produce to cook at your hostel, but many local food purveyors also set up shop so you can stock up on pre-made meals. Check these websites for different market options.
• Visit the discount groceries – Discount stores such as Cost-U-Less (Big Island and Kaua’i), Don Quijote (O’ahu) and Big Save (Kaua’i) offer inexpensive food and alcohol. Note that locally-grown produce is significantly cheaper than imported stuff, so stock up on local food as much as possible.
• Redeem hotel points – Be sure to sign up for hotel credit cards before you go and use those points when you travel. Many of the nice resorts here are owned by big hotel chains where you can stay for free with points.
• Stay with a local – If you’re on a tight budget, stay with a local via Couchsurfing . You’ll not only get free accommodation but you’ll get access to an insider who can share their tips and advice with you.
• Rent a bike – If you’re on O’ahu, download the Biki app to access the island’s bike-sharing platform. Single rides start at $4.50 USD, a one-day pass with unlimited 30-minute rides is $12 USD, and a 300-minute pass is $30 USD.
• Be smart with your car rental – If you want to rent a car just for a few hours, the Hui Car Share app has vehicles available in many tourist hot spots for an hourly rate. It may be cheaper than a full-day rental depending on your needs. Prices start at $12 USD per hour or $125 USD per day, which includes gas.
• Skip the taxis – Uber and Lyft are cheaper than taxis and are the best way to get around a city if you don’t want to take a bus or pay for a taxi. The shared/pool option (where you share a ride with other people) offers even better savings.
• Get a Go Oahu pass – This discount pass offers discounts to over 40 O’ahu attractions. Passes are available from 2-7 days, starting at $184 USD for a two-day pass. There is also a pass that lets you choose between three and seven attractions. That pass starts at $159 for three choices. If you’re seeing a lot of attractions covered by the pass, the pass will end up saving you money.
• Take a free walking tour – I love free walking tours. They’re a great way to get oriented and see the major sights without breaking the bank. Try the tour of Honolulu with Hawaii Free Tours. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water here is generally safe to drink so skip the bottled water. You’ll save money and reduce your environmental footprint. LifeStraw makes a reusable bottle with a built-in filter that ensures your water is always clean.

Where to Stay in Hawai’i

Hawai’i has lots of hostels. Here are my recommended places to stay in Hawai’i:

• The Beach Boutique Hostel (O’ahu)
• Banana Bungalow (Maui)
• Aloha Surf Hostel (Maui)
• My Hawaiian Hostel (Big Island)

How to Get Around Hawai’i

How you get around Hawai’i depends on which islands you’re visiting. Some islands (like Maui and O’ahu) have better infrastructure for getting around compared to places like Kaua’i.

Bus – Buses are the only public transportation option in Hawai’i (though Lana’i and Moloka’i do not have buses). O’ahu has the most extensive transit system, with decent coverage and frequent buses. It’s simply called The Bus, and a single ride fare is $3 USD, which includes 2.5 hours of unlimited free transfers.

Your daily fare will be capped at $7.50 USD providing you have a HOLO Card, which you can get for a one-time fee of $2 USD at transit centers, supermarkets, and convenience stores around the island. The bus company’s official website is terrible for trip planning so you’re better off using Google Maps.

Maui Bus, Kauai Bus, and Hele-On Bus (Big Island) also operate island-wide, with prices starting at $2 USD and daily passes costing $4-5 USD. Again, none of these websites are very user-friendly so use Google Maps to plot your route.

Flying – Flying is the main (and often only) way to travel between the islands. Flights are generally cheap, quick, and super casual (most of the time, you don’t even get assigned seats). Hawai’i’s domestic airlines are Hawaiian Airlines and Mokulele Airlines. Southwest also has some flights between islands as well.

Flights are generally affordable. For example, one-way flights from Maui to Honolulu start around $60USD while Kaua’i to Maui is $60-90 USD. Honolulu to Hilo (Big Island) also start around $60USD.

Car Rental – While not usually the cheapest option, having a car in Hawai’i is the best way to get around. Prices start from about $50 USD per day (if you rent for a week or more). For shorter rentals, expect to pay $65 USD or more per day. For the best rental car deals, use Discover Cars .

Ferry – You can only take a ferry between Maui and Lana’i. Everywhere else, you’ll need to fly. The ferry is about $30 USD each way. You can reserve a ticket on go-lanai.com.

Taxis – Taxis are expensive. Everything is meter-based and starts around $3.50 USD and then costs an additional $3 USD per mile. Skip the taxis if you can!

Ridesharing – Uber and Lyft are cheaper than taxis and are the best way to get around a city if you don’t want to take a bus or pay for a taxi. They’re available on most of the islands.

When to Go to Hawai’i

Peak season in Hawai’i starts in the middle of December and lasts until the end of March/mid-April, as that is when mainland Americans are trying to escape the colder winter months. The average daily temperature during this time is 78°F (26°C).

Traveling during low seasons (mid-April to mid-June/mid-September to mid-December) offers nice weather and fewer crowds (and slightly cheaper prices). The average daytime summer temperature is 85°F (29°C).

It’s always hot and sunny here so there’s never really a bad time to visit! Ocean temperatures are great for swimming and other water activities all year.

Advanced surfers will want to spend the winter months (November – April) in the north shores of the islands for the big, awe-inspiring waves that have made Hawaii a surfer’s ultimate test. In the summer (May – October) the inverse is true, with calmer waves all around but bigger swells on the south shores, typically.

There are a variety of events throughout the year, so if you have specific interests keep an eye on those. Both the Hawai’i International Film Festival and the Hawai’i Food & Wine Festival happen every October. The Prince Lot Hula Competition happens in July and the Annual Kona Coffee Cultural Festival happens in November. Check out the tourism website (gohawaii.com) to see a full list of events throughout the year.

How to Stay Safe in Hawai’i

Hawai’i is a safe place to visit. Violent attacks are rare and tend to be confined to certain areas of Honolulu (specifically where drug and gang violence are a problem). As a general rule, however, avoid walking alone late at night in the city.

You may encounter petty crime, like theft, so keep your valuables secure. The islands are notorious for car break-ins so make sure yours is always locked. Never leave any valuables in your vehicle overnight.

Heed any warnings or alerts about severe weather or volcanic eruptions (although they’re rare). Always check the weather before you go hiking and stay on the trails.

Look out for warning signs and notice boards on roads, hiking trails, by rivers and streams and at beaches to alert you of possible dangers or restrictions. Don’t ignore them!

If you’re not a strong swimmer, stay out of the ocean or at least stick to beaches where a lifeguard is present. NEVER swim alone — the rip tides here are strong.

Above all: respect the land. Much of Hawai’i is considered sacred. You will show enormous disrespect if you trespass onto any sacred, private property, or litter anywhere on the islands. Do NOT do it.

Bring a refillable water bottle and skip single-use plastics like straws and cutlery. Plastic bags are banned so be sure to bring a reusable tote for groceries or shopping.

Lastly, the Hawaiian sun can be very intense so respect it and your skin by making sure you wear ample sunscreen. All sunscreen must be reef safe to protect the habitat. This local brand works well and is safe for kids too.

Solo female travelers are generally safe but should follow standard safety cautions. For more specific information, there are a number of great solo female travel blogs on the web. They can give you advice and tips that I can’t.

If you experience an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones, so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Hawaii Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Hawai’i Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on United States travel and continue planning your trip:

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The 7 Best Hotels in New York City

The 7 Best Hotels in Miami

Where to Stay in Miami: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

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Planning a Trip to Hawaii: DOs and DON’Ts (2024)

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Planning a trip to Hawaii is something many people dream of. With its stunning beaches, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and lush green hills, it’s one of the most beautiful places we’ve visited but also the most expensive.

While we do think the islands are worth the high price, to make the most of your stay, it’s essential to plan in advance.

In this post, we share our top Hawaii travel tips to show you how to plan a trip to Hawaii that’s perfect for you.

We’ll cover how many days you need in Hawaii, which island to visit, where to stay, the top activities, what you must book in advance, and everything else you need to know.

Video: Hawaii Travel Tips

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Since November 1, 2023, West Maui has been open for travel again (except most of Lahaina, which will remain closed indefinitely) after the devastating wildfire in Lahaina in August 2023.

Visitors to Maui are now encouraged, but please be mindful and respectful of the tragedy that everyone on the island has been impacted by.

Travel to other islands in Hawaii is unaffected.

If you’d like to donate money to support Maui’s recovery, consider the Hawaii Community Foundation’s Maui Strong Fund .

For more information about the ongoing situation, see the Hawaii Tourism Authority website .

Back to Contents

The average stay in Hawaii is about 7 days. I think this is a good minimum time for a trip, although 10-14 days is better if you want to visit multiple islands.

Some visitors do visit Hawaii for 4-5 days, but it’s a long way from the US mainland (or anywhere!) for a short trip, and you’ll spend the first few days adjusting to the time zone change. That said, if it’s all you can manage, it’s better than no time in Hawaii!

If you have a week for your Hawaii vacation, I recommend choosing just one island to visit. See below to find the best Hawaiian island for you.

If you have 10 days in Hawaii, I recommend starting with 3 days in Oahu and then visiting Maui or Kauai for a week.

Choosing the best island to visit is one of the most challenging parts of planning a trip to Hawaii. They are all diverse with lots to offer, so it just depends what you are looking for.

Most visitors to Hawaii visit one of these four islands:

Oahu is by far the most visited and developed Hawaiian island. It’s home to the large city of Honolulu, which includes the famous and very crowded Waikiki Beach (where most visitor accommodation is located).

Oahu offers the most choice of shopping, dining, and nightlife, so if you want to combine city and beach life, this is the best island for you.

It’s also by far the easiest place to manage without renting a car (although I still recommend it). If you stay in Waikiki, you can walk to the beach and many shops, restaurants, and activities.

You can also take tours, Ubers, or the Trolley Bus to nearby attractions including the Pearl Harbour memorial.

Oahu’s North Shore offers a much more relaxed vibe with beautiful beaches and huge waves for surfing in the winter.

Oahu is easy to fit into Hawaii vacations as Honolulu International Airport offers the most flights from the mainland US and international destinations.

Our favourite activities in Oahu are:

• Taking a helicopter ride around the island for stunning views. We recommend the one hour doors off tour with Rainbow Helicopters from Honolulu.
• Snorkelling at Hanauma Bay (be sure to book).
• Relaxing on the Windward Coast beaches especially Waimānalo and Kailua.

See our 7 Day Oahu itinerary for many more tips.

Where to stay in Oahu: Turtle Bay Resort on the North Shore is our favourite place we’ve stayed in all of Hawaii! It is seriously dreamy with incredible ocean views, isolated beaches (with turtles!), stylish rooms, and plenty to do. It feels a world away from Waikiki.

Maui is the second most visited island and is a popular honeymoon destination.

It has gorgeous beaches, world-class whale watching, and the Road to Hana drive where you can see waterfalls, bamboo forest, and black sand beaches.

You can also watch the sun rise above a volcanic crater and visit wineries and lavender farms in Upcountry.

There’s a wide range of resorts, dining, shopping, and activities as well as natural attractions.

Our favourite activities in Maui are:

• Staying overnight in Hana (we love Hana Kai Condos ) to explore popular sights like Waianapanapa without the crowds.
• Whale watching from Lahaina. We saw an incredible amount of humpbacks on our small group boat trip with Makai Adventures (up and running in a new location).
• Relaxing on the beaches of West Maui (with turtle sightings!).

See our Maui itinerary for more tips.

Where to stay in Maui: Kahana Reef has affordable, oceanfront condos on the west coast. We saw whales, turtles, and incredible sunsets from our lanai.

The Big Island (officially called Hawaii) is the youngest Hawaiian island, so it’s not as green as the other islands and has more lava landscapes.

If you want to see an active volcano, this is the island to visit.

It’s the largest island with diverse landscapes from white sand beaches to snow-capped volcanoes.

Our favourite activities on the Big Island are:

• Night snorkel with manta rays. We got incredibly close to these magnificent and huge creatures on our manta trip with Sea Quest .
• Snorkelling at Kealakekua Bay and Two Step .
• Kilauea Iki Trail  – Hiking into a volcanic caldera in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

See our guide to the best things to do on the Big Island for more tips.

Where to Stay on the Big Island: You’ll want to divide your time between the west and east on this large island. Our favourite area was Volcano, where we adored this peaceful cabin in the rainforest . It’s very different from the rest of Hawaii.

Known as The Garden Isle, Kauai is the most lush and green of the islands.

Kauai has become more popular, but it isn’t as developed as Maui or Oahu.

The jagged green cliffs of the stunning Napali Coast are the big draw, but there are also lovely beaches, waterfalls, hiking trails, and multi-coloured canyons.

Our favourite activities in Kauai are:

• Admiring Kauai from above – Our Kauai doors off helicopter ride was spectacular.
• Sailing the Napali Coast – The massive sea cliffs are stunning and we saw whales, dolphins and turtles on the way.
• Seeing turtles and seals on Poipu Beach .

See our post on the best things to do on Kauai for many more.

Where to stay in Kauai: We loved our condo at Kiahuna Plantation on a beautiful beach in Poipu.

Less Visited Hawaiian Islands

If you are looking to get off the beaten track, you could consider visiting one of these smaller, much less visited islands (we haven’t made it to either yet but hope to next time):

• Molokai – Known as The Friendly Isle, on Molokai you’ll find a slow pace of life and more native Hawaiians, but less choice of accommodation and activities. It’s also home to the leper colony of Kalaupapa, which I became fascinated with after reading a couple of these Hawaii books .
• Lana’i – For many years Lana’i was a pineapple plantation and it’s now home to a few luxury resorts like the stunning Four Seasons Lana’i . If you want to enjoy the secluded beaches without the high price tag, the ferry from Lahaina on Maui only takes an hour, so you could visit on a day trip.

Which Side of the Island?

The character of each island also depends on which part you visit.

All the islands have a rainy side where the scenery is lush and green and a dry side where you’ll usually get more sun.

They are both worth visiting, which is why we split our island stays between two or three locations.

Where We Visited in Hawaii

We had 3.5 weeks on our first Hawaiian vacation (in January/February) and divided our time between Kauai and Maui, with one night in Honolulu before our onward flight.

There’s so much to do on each island that we’re glad we didn’t try to add in an extra island.

On our second 3 week Hawaii trip (in October), we spent a week on Oahu (but could have stayed longer) and two weeks on the Big Island.

We love all four of the major Hawaii islands, but our personal favourite is Kauai for the rugged green mountains and more laidback vibe.

There’s no bad time to visit Hawaii as it’s warm year-round, with daytime temperatures rarely dropping below 75ºF (24ºC), even in winter. Each season has its pros and cons.

To See Humpback Whales—Visit in Winter

We were astounded by how many whales we saw in Maui in February. January to March are the best months for whale watching, but you might see a few from November to May.

Winter weather in Hawaii is cooler and rainier than the rest of the year, but we still had mostly sunny days. The ocean is warm enough to swim year-round.

Winter is also the best time for serious surfers, with huge swells on the north shores (especially Oahu).

Christmas and New Year are some of the busiest times on the islands, so avoid them if you are on a budget (and book well in advance).

To Save Money—Visit in the Off-Season

In the spring (April and May) and autumn (September to mid-November), the islands are less crowded (relatively), prices are lower, and the weather is generally good. It can be very rainy on Kauai in April, though. 

For Snorkelling—Visit in Summer

The summer, from June to September, is the best time for snorkelling in Hawaii. The ocean is clearer, calmer, and warmer.

The shoulder months can be good, too—we found snorkelling better in October than in February. This does vary by island.

• Save up – Hawaii is expensive and you’ll enjoy it more if you aren’t worrying about every penny. On our first trip, we spent $267 per person per day (travelling as a couple), including everything except flights from the mainland US. You could spend less by travelling in the off-season, choosing non-beachfront accommodation, and skipping pricey tours. You could also spend a lot more by staying in luxury resorts and eating out for every meal.

• Book your accommodation far in advance – Especially if you are travelling in the high season, want an ocean view, or are travelling to places like Hana or Upcountry on Maui where accommodation is limited. You can search for resorts and hotels on Booking and vacation rentals on Vrbo .
• Consider a condo rather than a resort – For families, stays of a week or more, and for those on a budget, renting a condo with a kitchen is a great way to save money. There are many to choose from and some have resort facilities like pools and beachfront locations. We mostly stay in condos and Kiahuna Plantation on Poipu Beach in Kauai is one of our favourites. Vrbo is a great way to find condos.
• Split your stay – If you want the classic Hawaiian resort experience but can’t afford it for your whole trip, divide your time between a condo and a resort. We did this in Oahu—staying in a condo in Waikiki for 4 nights while we explored the south, then relaxing at gorgeous Turtle Bay Resort on the North Shore for the last 3 nights.

• Camp if you are on a tight budget – It’s not for everyone, but if you don’t mind roughing it, camping is the cheapest way to experience Hawaii. There are some beautiful campsites at beaches and state parks, although you usually need to get permits in advance. See this guide to camping in Hawaii for more tips.
• Search on Kiwi or Skyscanner for the best flight deals – You need to get on a plane to reach Hawaii. The cheapest rates will be from Los Angeles or other West Coast USA cities. Southwest now flies to Hawaii at low rates. You can also get affordable flights from Canada and Japan to Honolulu.
• Fly in and out of different islands – Maximise your time on the islands by flying into one island (such as Kauai) and out of another (such as Maui). I was surprised by how many affordable direct flights there are from the US mainland to places other than Honolulu.
• Rent a car – It’s the best way to see Hawaii and often there’s no other way to reach parts of the islands. At busy times rental cars can run out, so book far in advance. We use Booking.com Car Rentals to find the best deal and just book the cheapest economy car.
• Travel between islands by plane – There are no ferries between islands (except from Maui to Lana’i) so you’ll need to hop on an interisland flight. Most are operated by Hawaiian Airlines and are affordable and short (20 to 50 minutes).
• Consider splitting your time between two or three locations on each island – If you want to do a lot of exploring, this will help avoid long drives to attractions. We’ve done this on all four main islands and it worked out well.

• Book Haleakala sunrise in advance – If you want to see Maui’s most popular sunrise, you must book up to 60 days in advance . If you miss out, try again two days before when more tickets are released.
• Make reservations for some state parks – Non-Hawaii residents need to book in advance for certain parks and pay an entrance and parking fee. These include Haena State Park in Kauai, Waianapanapa State Park on the Road to Hana in Maui, ‘Iao Valley in Maui, and Diamond Head in Oahu. Time slots are released 30 days in advance. Book as soon as possible as they do sell out.
• Pack a sweater – While most of the time you’ll only need summer clothes, it can get chilly on morning boat trips or if you go to higher elevations (like Upcountry in Maui or Waimea Canyon on Kauai) especially in the winter. Sunrise at Haleakala, Maui and sunset at Mauna Kea on the Big Island are freezing and you’ll appreciate as many layers as possible. See the end of this post for more tips on what to pack for Hawaii. 
• Learn a few Hawaiian words – Even if it’s just Aloha (hello and goodbye but also love and compassion) and Mahalo (thank you). I picked up vocabulary by reading the astounding novel Shark Dialogues by Kiana Davenport (which I highly recommend every visitor reads).
• Book restaurants in advance – Upscale restaurants do fill up, so make reservations for anywhere you definitely want to eat (including at resorts). A few weeks in advance should be fine but places like Duke’s on Waikiki Beach book up months ahead. People tend to eat early in Hawaii (around 6pm) so it’s easier to get later reservations.
• Bring cash for tipping – While you can add a tip to your credit card in restaurants, it’s important to have cash for tour guides, valets, and resort staff. If you’re not American, familiarise yourself with tipping etiquette. We tipped 20% in restaurants and sit down bars, $10-20 per person for tours (including for helicopter pilots), $5 for valet attendants (when the car was returned), and around $2-3 a day for hotel housekeeping.
• Plan to visit more than one island per week – You’ll spend too much of your precious Hawaii vacation time travelling and there’s so much to do on each island. While interisland flight times are short, airport security queues can be long (especially out of Honolulu) or flights delayed.
• Forget hidden fees – The listed price for hotels and resorts is rarely what you’ll actually pay. You’ll have to add tax and often a resort fee, cleaning fee (for condos), and parking charge. Check the final total price when comparing accommodation options.
• Visit during holidays – Try to avoid the busiest times of year, especially Christmas and New Year when crowds and prices soar. Thanksgiving week is another busy period. Avoid special events like Iron Man on the Big Island in October. If you must visit then, book far in advance.
• Stay on the beach (maybe) – If you are on a tight budget, you’ll save by staying a short walk or drive from the beach. That said, we often splurge on beachfront accommodation and love it.

• Read novels set in Hawaii – Learn more about Hawaii’s fascinating culture and turbulent history by reading one of these books about Hawaii while you relax on the beach.
• Schedule your most important activities early – Weather can change and cancel activities like boat trips and helicopter rides, so make sure you’ll have time to reschedule.
• Book Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve on Oahu two days in advance – If you want to snorkel at this popular beach, you must make a reservation here at exactly 7am Hawaii Standard Time two days before your visit. Slots sell out in minutes. Tickets are $25. It’s closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

• Use reef-safe sunscreen – Hawaii has banned the sale of sunscreen that uses coral-harming chemicals (oxybenzone and octinoxate). You need a product that uses zinc oxide instead, like this Raw Elements sunscreen . Honestly, it’s a pain to apply, but it’s surprisingly water resistant, and it’s worth it to protect the reefs. Longs Drugs and ABC Stores are good places to pick up all your beach supplies on the islands.

• Wear a rashguard – Even better than sunscreen is to protect your skin by wearing a rashguard in the water, especially when snorkelling.

• Sign up to the Snorkel Report on Maui – You’ll get an email every morning with tips on the best beaches to visit that day. They also rent inexpensive snorkelling and beach gear.
• Check the Hawaii Beach Safety website – To find out which beaches are safe for swimming or best for surfing.
• Go whale watching – It was one of our favourite experiences in Hawaii. We chose a small boat trip with Makai Adventures from Lahaina in Maui and loved it so much we went twice. You can see whales on most of the islands— search for whale watching trips in Hawaii here .
• Hike – All the islands have beautiful trails from easy coastal walks to challenging multi-day treks. It’s a great free way to enjoy the beauty of the islands.

• Rent a Tommy Bahama beach chair and umbrella – Our condos came with these, but you can rent them on the islands inexpensively. They have backpack straps for easy carrying and make beach hopping much more comfortable.
• Bring or rent snorkel gear – If you have space in your luggage, bring your own snorkel and mask. If not, rent it for the length of your stay from a service like Snorkel Bob’s (as we did on the Big Island). I appreciated being able to take a look at the reef whenever we went to the beach.
• Visit a farmer’s market – The fresh produce is usually cheaper and better quality than the supermarkets and there are lots of tasty treats and foodie souvenirs to enjoy.
• Cool off with shave ice – This delicious icy treat is so much better than we expected. Add a scoop of macadamia ice cream on the bottom for maximum tastiness. Our favourites are Waikomo Shave Ice on Kauai and Original Big Island Shave Ice Co on the Big Island.

• Enjoy a Mai Tai on the beach – Touristy yes, but it’s a classic Hawaii experience and these tasty rum cocktails come in cool Tiki glasses.
• Try Li Hing Mui – This dried plum is sweet, salty, and sour. It’s very popular in Hawaii (originating from China), and you can find them whole for snacking (a bit much for me) or as a flavour for many treats. It’s my new favourite shave ice flavour (especially combined with lilikoi/passionfruit and pineapple).
• Drive the Road to Hana on Maui – Most people do this in one day, but we loved spending a few nights in Hana to explore without the crowds.

• Eat all the banana bread – Especially in the Hana area, homemade banana bread sold at farm stalls is so good.
• Indulge in chocolate-covered macadamia nuts – We were addicted to the ones by Moana Loa.
• Let local drivers pass you – They know the winding roads better than you and drive at a faster pace, so pull over and let them pass.
• See Kauai from above – Our doors-off helicopter trip on Kauai was mind-blowing and it’s the best island for a scenic flight. Our Oahu helicopter tour was also amazing. Search for scenic helicopter flights on other Hawaiian islands here .

• Eat in restaurants for every meal – Restaurants are expensive and by self-catering in our condo we saved a huge amount of money. Even if you don’t have a kitchen, you can pick up a pre-made picnic lunch from a supermarket and enjoy it on the beach. Some of our tastiest meals were from food trucks which are far cheaper than restaurants. Hana in Maui and Hanalei in Kauai had the best selection of trucks.
• Underestimate the ocean – Conditions can be dangerous and change quickly and drownings do happen. If you’re not sure it’s safe, don’t swim.
• Turn your back on the ocean – Huge waves can come out of nowhere when you are swimming or even walking along the shore.
• Fight a rip current –  If you get caught in a current, keep calm, float, and wave for help. Go with the current and conserve your energy.
• Touch sea turtles or monk seals – You are likely to come across wildlife on the beaches, but it’s illegal to get too close or touch them.
• Feed fish or other wild animals.

• Trespass – Please respect private property. While all beaches are open to the public, they don’t all have public access routes.
• Litter – Don’t leave anything behind on beaches or hiking trails.
• Park illegally – Respect “no parking” signs and don’t stop on the side of the road. This has become a real problem on the Road to Hana in Maui in particular.
• Steal any rocks or sand .
• Touch or step on coral – Be mindful of where your fins are when snorkelling.
• Leave valuables in your car – And keep any luggage hidden out of sight in the trunk. Rent a mid-size car rather than a compact one (we found these didn’t have an enclosed trunk).
• Laugh at the hula – It’s not just a dance for tourists, but a serious part of local culture.
• Refuse a lei (flower garland) – It’s a symbol of affection and Aloha so wear it with gratitude and don’t take it off in front of the person who gave it to you.
• Wear shoes into someone’s house .
• Rush – Don’t feel the pressure to do everything. Make sure you allow time just to relax by the pool or on the beach. Slow down and enjoy these beautiful islands.

The weather is warm year-round in Hawaii so pack lightweight summer clothes—shorts, t-shirts, dresses, a couple of bathing suits, and a beach cover-up. 

I’m a big fan of PrAna for summer dresses and swimwear. 

There’s no need to pack formal clothes as Hawaii is very casual. 

I do recommend packing one set of warmer clothes for visiting places at higher elevations or boat trips in winter. A pair of jeans or leggings plus a lightweight fleece or sweater should be fine. 

If you are planning on sunrise at Haleakala in Maui or stargazing at Mauna Kea on the Big Island, it can be freezing, so add more layers and perhaps a packable down jacket if you have one (I like the Patagonia Nano Puff Hoody). 

We spend most of our time in Hawaii wearing hiking sandals—they are perfect for beaches and hikes. Many beaches have rough access trails so you’ll appreciate something more than flip-flops.

We both love Teva sandals which are very comfortable for hiking and most models are waterproof so are great for kayaking. Simon likes the Teva Fi Lite sandals and I have the Teva Verra sandals .

I also had a pair of ballet flats for a dressier option for the evenings. My current favourites are the super comfy Allbirds Tree Breezers —see my Allbirds flats review for details. 

For running, I wear the light, breathable Allbirds Tree Dashers .  

Other Useful Items

• Reef-safe sunscreen – Avoid sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate which have been banned in Hawaii. 
• Reusable shopping bags – Plastic bags are banned on the islands.
• Spices – If you are self-catering, you’ll save money by bringing a small amount of spices with you. We bought some at the bulk-buy section of a supermarket on the mainland.
• Water bottle – Avoid creating plastic waste by packing a reusable water bottle. We like the Vapur water bottle as it’s light and packs flat when empty. 
• Packable daypack – These backpacks fit in your luggage on the trip over and are useful for hikes and exploring. 
• Packing cubes – We swear by these as they keep your clothes organised and easy to find in your luggage. 
• Quick-dry beach towel – These lightweight towels dry faster than traditional towels and sand shakes off them more easily. 
• Compact binoculars – There’s so much wildlife to see in Hawaii including whales, dolphins, seals, turtles, and birds. The tiny Olympus 8 x 21 RCII waterproof binoculars were ideal for getting a closer look.

Yes, I think Hawaii is well worth visiting! While it is expensive and can be crowded, there’s something about that stunning scenery and relaxing vibe that entices many of us to visit again and again.

I hope this blog post helps you with how to plan a trip to Hawaii. Let me know if you have any questions and share your Hawaii travel tips in the comments below.

We share more of our Hawaii tips in these posts:

• The Perfect 7 Day Oahu Itinerary
• A Doors Off Oahu Helicopter Tour: Everything You Need to Know
• 25 Best Things to Do in Maui
• The Ultimate Maui Itinerary: The Best of Maui in 7 to 14 Days
• 17 Stunning Road to Hana Stops & Why You Should Stay in Hana, Maui
• Where to Stay in Kauai: The Best Areas and Hotels
• 17 Unmissable Things to Do in Kauai
• A Doors Off Helicopter Tour on Kauai: Is It Worth it?
• 14 Best Beaches in Kauai
• 23 Unmissable Things to Do on the Big Island
• 9 Best Books About Hawaii to Read Before You Visit

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16 Comments

Your review made no mention of exploring the art museum & palace.

These 2 spots are essential visits in Oahu. Exploring how Hawaiian islands last provincial part of royal hawaiian culture just before annexation to the United States as a territory, and later a state is fascinating. The art museum and also Duke Mansion have extremely rare & valuable originals of some of the most revered artists in varying mediums. Picasso, Monet, Rembrant, Matisse, Van gough, O’keife. Really disappointing it is not even mentioned here. I have visited Hawaiian Island more than 10 + times. They are essential stops.

Reply ↓

Thanks for the suggestions, Susanne. Everyone has different priorities, and for us, with limited time in Honolulu, we preferred to focus on the amazing outdoor attractions.

I do think it’s important to learn about Hawaii’s history and culture so I’ve read a lot of books about it.

This is so helpful and thorough! I have been clicking back and forth to different articles. Thank you for putting your time in to such a great resource.

I’m glad you found it useful! Thanks Jennifer for the kind words!

Hi!! Do you have any recommendations on phone/data plans for internationals?💕

We’re currently in the US and are using T Mobile. Simon got an unlimited data plan for $50 a month and bought the SIM in advance from SIM Corner while we were in New Zealand (they ship from various countries).

That was useful as it meant we had the SIM as soon as we arrived (most airports don’t seem to have places to buy SIMs).

I just went into a T-Mobile shop to buy mine and got the cheapest plan of $15 for 2.5GB data valid for 30 days. Plus $10 for the SIM card. All plans have unlimited domestic talk and text.

If you look in the trucks at Farmers Markets….many of the boxes are from COSTCO. If you plan to self-cater, shop at COSTCO first and then Walmart if the island your visiting has one.

Do you know if the Covid restrictions would prevent people from renting a car and doing their own circle tour. These tours are outrageously expensive for only 15 mins at each location. I could easily just use our rental car and take our time seeing what we want to see. So my question is will the State of Hawaii only allow these pricey tours right now because of Covid? For example, I don’t want to drive to see the Halona Blowhole only to find out we can’t get near it because of certain restrictions.

You are allowed to rent a car (as long as you don’t have to quarantine which you shouldn’t if you get a test before arrival) so there’s no reason not to drive yourself. There is high demand for car rentals in Hawaii at the moment (many rental companies sold off cars last year) so book as far in advance as possible.

Hi! Thank you for this article it was very helpful. For the sunrise mountain in Maui, I saw the reservations is per car. Do you drive all the way up or hike? I will be traveling with some older people (70+), so trying to understand the feasibility? Thank you!

Yes, it is per car. You drive all the way up and don’t have to walk more than a few minutes from the carpark to the viewpoint. There are optional hiking trails around for post-sunrise, but it’s still stunning without any walking.

Thank you for the tips to “Bring reusable shopping bags” and “Schedule your most important activities early”. Very good points to keep in mind.

I love that Hawaii has so many places that offer to rent (folding) beach chairs! I find that option sorely missing from the islands in the Caribbean. In fact, I ended up buying an inexpensive beach chair from Wal-mart when we were in Puerto Rico this past winter.

What about tent camping, is that not a viable alternative to the high priced lodging?

Yes, that’s definitely the cheapest way to experience Hawaii. It’s not our thing, although we saw the campsite at Waianapanapa State Park on Maui and you can’t beat the location!

I’ve lived on Kauai for over 40 years. While I agree with nearly everything you say in this excellent article, there was one glaring error that any Kauai resident could confirm. Although visiting off season is, indeed, (somewhat) cheaper and certainly less crowded, the weather in April on Kauai (and generally March) is far from excellent. Many, many visitors to Kauai have had their vacations ruined by our relentless April rains (in fact, much of the north shore is still closed from catastrophic rains over a year ago, and a couple of years before that it rained for nearly 40 straight days (okay, maybe not, but any local will swear by it…). April is by far the worst possible month to visit Kauai and it does your readers a digs-service to urge them to do so.

Thanks for the information Bill. I will update the post.

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Island Hopping in Hawaii: Planning an Epic 10-Day Hawaii Itinerary

last Updated: March 27, 2024 hawaii kauai maui oahu

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Looking for waves to surf, sunsets to chase, and oh so juicy pineapple to snack on? Check out this 10 Day Hawaii island hopping itinerary – you’ll find all that and more. 

We just never seem to get enough of Hawaii. Over the last few years we’ve taken trips to Maui , Oahu , and Kauai , over long weekends and short breaks (we love being so much closer now that we live in California).

A bunch of years back we flew to Hawaii for a whirlwind of a 10-day trip, and just couldn’t get enough! There’s something about the aloha spirit that just keeps bringing us back to our happy place. 

We’re literally always planning our next trip back to the islands, so I even made myself an epic Hawaiian bucket list with over 200 beaches, activities, and places to eat!

And Hawaii has it all – spectacular beaches, impressive underwater sea life (so many turtles!), stunning sea caves, enough hiking for days, and stunning green peaks nonchalantly jetting outta the coastline.

It also has active volcanoes (with red-hot lava sightings on a daily basis), funky surf towns, shave ice/fresh fish/hula pie, and enough beach time to last a lifetime. In general, Hawaii is an attack on the senses (in the best way possible).

In this Hawaiian island hopping guide I’ll be sharing with you my favorite highlights of each island, as well as Hawaii itinerary ideas to get your planning started! Just promise you’ll bring me back a malasada (or two or three…).

Read Next → The Ultimate Hawaii Bucket List (with over 200 things to do!)

Hawaii Island Hopping Logistics

When to visit hawaii .

In all honesty, there’s never a bad time to visit the Hawaiian islands (we are talking about paradise after all). The best time to go highly depends on the type of experience you want to have.

However, in general, you’ll find warm weather on all the islands all year (78 degrees to 88 degrees, being the warmest in the summer months of July-August), with it’s biggest variables being rain and surfing conditions.

We’ve visited in all seasons and all had their positives/negatives. 

Winter will bring larger swells (November to March), making it a desirable time to visit for those looking to surf, as well as the best whale watching opportunities (during the months of February and March).

Technically, the rainy season in Hawaii is from November to March, although you’ll still find many clear, sunny days. And when it rains in Hawaii, it typically does so in short bursts and hardly ever lasting all day.

Summer brings understandably warmer ocean water (making it more comfortable for snorkeling, swimming, and other water sports), but the air can be hot and super humid (yuck!), so it just depends which you prefer.

How to Get Around the Hawaiian Islands

Flying : If you plan to island hop in Hawaii, you’ll find that flying is the only way to travel from island to island. Thankfully, flights are short, plentiful (with dozens of flights each day), and typically only last an hour (or less) each way.

I always opt for a window seat, as the views are full of islands and reefs (swoon).

Hawaiian Airlines, Mokulele Airlines, and recently Southwest are the primary airlines which fly between the islands. Inter-island flights will cost you around $100-$150, which will hopefully get cheaper now that airlines are competing with the newest addition of Southwest.

Try and score non-stop flights by booking early, but if you can’t (happened to me!), choose short connections. You’ll see that most flights make a stop in Honolulu (Oahu), so attempt to keep this time to a minimum. You don’t wanna waste precious beach time waiting for a flight! Book early on in your Hawaii island hopping planning and you’ll hopefully be able to snag a non-stop flight.

Ferries : At this time, there is no major ferry system connecting the Hawaiian islands. Wouldn’t it be nice?! Passenger ferries in the past exited, but there are currently only two ferry routes still running.

• Between Maui (Lahaina) and the nearby island of Molokai aboard the Molokai Ferry (taking 90 minutes or so
• Between Maui (Lahaina) and Lanai (Manele Bay) via the Maui-Lanai Expeditions Ferry (taking approximately 45 minutes)

Cruise Ship : For those looking to see a whole bunch of the Hawaiian islands without the hectic schedule of flying every few days, consider a cruise! Plus, you’ll only have to unpack once!

Cruises typically leave from either San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Diego, or Honolulu. And you’ll have your pick of cruise line as many sail between these islands – Princess, Royal Caribbean, Holland America, Crystal, and Norwegian, with the latter having the only big ship based there at this time.

How To Save Some Money When Booking a Trip to Hawaii

I get it, I really do! Hawaii can get pretty expensive, pretty fast! And if you’re looking to spend a decent amount of time island hopping (say 10 days in Hawaii or longer), the costs can really add up. A few tips:

• Fly into/out of Hawaii mid-week, as this is when you’re more likely to find a less expensive flight
• Visit during late March – mid July (with the exception of the last week in April – Japan’s Golden Week aka peak travel time), and later in the year from September to mid-December (minus the week of Thanksgiving). You’ll likely find discounted room rates (with highest possible change of free upgrades) and cheapie car rentals!

Now, let’s get this Hawaii island hopping adventure underway!

Planning a Hawaii Island Hopping Itinerary

Unlike other itineraries on my site (hello  Greece , Bali , Thailand , etc), it’s unfortunately extremely hard to give you detailed day-by-day plans for a Hawaii itinerary. There’s just oh SO much to do on each of the islands, with 4 main ones total.

So instead, I’m breaking down the highlights for you to pick and choose from on each main Hawaiian island. Think of it as more like a DIY itinerary. And just know that you can never go wrong in Hawaii (you really can’t).

On my other itineraries, I always aim to include all the typical tourist spots and highlights (hey, they’re popular for a reason, right?!). However, there isn’t just one main Hawaiian island- they’re all equal and downright stunning in their own way.

I’d say the majority of people visit Oahu and Maui , but make that decision for yourself (after reading through all the possibilities given on this Hawaii itinerary inspiration post of course). We have a soft spot for Kauai , and are aching to finally make it to The Big Island of Hawaii itself.

How Many Islands to Visit

With 10 days in Hawaii, you can either visit 2 or 3 islands, it just depends on the type of trip you want. With a trip to 3 islands, you can obviously see more of the island chain, but it’ll be a rather fast paced itinerary without tons of time to relax.

By only visiting 2 islands, you can plan out more carefree days, spending ample time at the beach and taking it slow. My suggestion? 3 islands, especially if you don’t know if/when you’ll be back to Hawaii. 

However, if you have 2 weeks in Hawaii and don’t mind running around from island to island, you can squeeze in all 4 main Hawaiian islands. Just know it’ll be hectic as hell, but a very, very good time.

How to choose which islands to visit 

I feel your pain – choosing which islands to visit is one of the hardest decisions to make when planning any Hawaii itinerary (without it being a logistical nightmare). They’re all so worthy of your time!

With the Na Pali coast of Kauai , Road to Hana on Maui , Volcanoes National Park on The Big Island , and Honolulu/Pearl Harbor in Oahu , how can you possibly leave one (or two) out?! I get it, I really, really do.

And besides those 4 main islands, there’s also Lanai and Molokai , as well as 2 others not accessible to visitors, making for a total of 8 Hawaiian islands! Who knew?!

If this is your first time to the islands, how do you even begin to decide which Hawaiian islands to visit? The islands are all so varied – some being more rustic and rugged, while others have a more glitz and glam aspect to it.

On all you’ll find scenic hiking trails, underwater adventures, famous surfing spots, and hidden waterfalls. Thankfully, there’s no wrong answer. You could just toss a coin and you’d have an amazing trip.

Not sure where to start at all? Look for flight deals. Since Oahu has the only international airport in all of Hawaii (Honolulu Daniel K. Inouye International, airport code HNL), you’ll most likely find the cheapest flights here from the mainland. Because of this, it’s wise to start/end your trip in Oahu before/after you’re done island hopping in Hawaii.

However, with that being said, there are more and more non-stop flights to Maui these days, special thanks to Southwest’s new routes. If you’re able to find an inexpensive flight to Maui, snag that right up (as they don’t come often).

I always use Skyscanner and Google Flights when searching for airfare, and love the option to get email notifications when the price drops.

Sample 10 day Hawaii itineraries: 

I get it, it’s hard to narrow down which islands you want to visit. Close your eyes and picture yourself in Hawaii – what do you see? Adventure? Relaxation? Cultural experiences? Romance and luxury? A bit of everything?

I’ve narrowed it down to three types of trips: one for the first-timer’s typical Hawaiian experience, one for those who are looking for a bit of privacy and romance, and one for adventure junkies.

The Typical Hawaiian Experience: Get into the Aloha spirit on Maui, Oahu, and Kauai (if time allows)

Visiting Hawaii for the first time and looking for an exceptionally varied itinerary of things to do? Not scared of island hopping around Hawaii in record breaking time?

All three islands are probably best to do with a timeframe of 2 weeks, but if you’re like me and don’t mind cramming in activities, 10 days in Hawaii will be sufficient. Plan your days wisely, wake up early, and understand you won’t have much time for relaxing on the beach.

On Maui, plan to wake up early to see the sunrise at Haleakala National Park , drive the curvy Road to Hana , go whale watching (in the winter months), snorkel at Molokini and Turtle Town , and relax at the idyllic golden-sandy beaches of Napili Bay and Kaanapali Beach. 

While on Oahu you can choose from hanging out in Honolulu and Waikiki, paying your respects at Pearl Harbor, hiking up Diamond Head, relaxing on Lanikai Beach, and/or snorkeling at Hanauma Bay (my favorite).

On Kauai, your time will revolve around the rugged Na Pali coastline, with a helicopter ride to see it from above, a snorkel tour to see it from water, and hiking the first few miles of the 11-mile Kalalau Trail (no permit required for this section).

For the Honeymooners: Romance in Kauai, Maui, and Lanai

Hawaii is the epitome of romance. With its abundance of spectacular sunsets, private swimming holes, lush rainforests, and exotic, tropical beaches, I can see why so many honeymooners choose Hawaii as their first trip as husband and wife.

As newlyweds, you probably don’t wanna run amongst the families and young kids. Plan your Hawaii island hopping adventure to include lots of private beach time, hiking to secluded and not-as-popular waterfalls, splurge on private excursions (sunset boat ride, anyone?), and opt for that couples massage on the beach you so want and deserve (planning a wedding is hard work, ya’ll).

Plan to avoid Oahu (Honolulu and Waikiki are way over crowded with tourists), and the cities over on the Big Island. 

Romance on Kauai: What’s more romantic than a thrilling experience up in the air? Opt for a private helicopter tour, and you’re more than likely gonna get lucky later on. Sure, this is one pricey excursion, but Kauai’s the place to do it! Be sure to stay on the North Shore (the stunning Princeville Resort’s got my vote), as you’ll find these beaches less packed and easier to find your own private beach spots.

Romance on Maui: For a more beachy, less big-city vibe, be sure to add Maui to your Hawaii island hopping itinerary. Maui’s a great mixture of culture, postcard perfect honeymoon beaches, serpentine coastal drives, and food. Don’t miss celebrating Polynesian culture with your sweetie, singing songs and telling stories of old Hawaii.  

Romance on Lanai: If you want the ultimate honeymoon luxury (privacy, of course), make sure to include tiny Lanai into your Hawaii itinerary. It’ll definitely feel secluded – with only one resort on the entire island, you can be sure you won’t run into mobs and mobs of unwanted tourists.

For Adventure Lovers : Go crazy in Kauai and the Big Island

If adventures the name of your game, a 10 day Hawaii itinerary split between Kauai and the Big Island will really get your adrenaline rushing.

On Kauai, plan to hike the 11-mile Kalalau Trail (if you’re one of the lucky ones to secure a permit), soar above the Na Pali coastline via helicopter ride, try your hand at surfing at Hanalei Bay, kayak down the Wailua River, windsurf at ʻAnini Beach, hike into the colorful Waimea Canyon, and/or go stand-up paddling in the Hanalei River.

On the Big Island, active volcano trekking is the main reason why we’re headed here. At Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, you can hike next to active lava, explore lava tubes, and bike next to scalding hot steam vents. Talk about adventure. Fill the rest of your days by snorkeling with manta rays, spelunking in Kula Kai Caverns, and hiking to waterfalls in Waipio Valley.

Things to do during your 10 days in Hawaii

General things to do in hawaii:.

• Eat all the fresh fruit: eat as much fresh fruit as humanly possible (it just tastes sweeter over here). And yes, this includes coconuts, mango, papaya, and dragonfruit. We love going to road-side farm stands before any long drives to pick up some fruits.

• Take a helicopter ride: Preferably over the Na Pali coast of Kauai (the scenery on Maui’s a close second). There’s nothing like getting a bird’s eye view of the towering mountains, jagged coastline, and turquoise reefs.
• Attend a luau with traditional dances and a pig roast over a spit fire (the most famous are the Old Lahaina Luau and Feast at Lele in Maui)

• Go snorkeling with sea turtles : Tons of sea turtles can be found in the Hawaiian reefs, most common being the green sea turtle (honus) and hawksbill. Some sites you can snorkel right off the beach, while others you’ll need to join a group boat tour. We’ve been snorkeling in Maui tons of times, and have seen sea turtles almost every time!
• Play Golf: There are some world-famous courses on the islands, including Poipu Bay and Puakea on Kauai and Kaanapali and Wailea Golf Club on Maui,  although Oahu and The Big Island have some notable courses as well. 
• Try your hand at surfing: With year round waves, there’s never a bad time to go surfing in these waters. Do note the surf gets much more difficult in the winter months, so if you’re a beginner, best to learn in the summer when the swells are smaller.
• Relax at the beach/pool with a mai tai in hand (this is Hawaii afterall)!

• Whale watching : If you’re visiting the Hawaiian islands during the winter months of November to April, you’re in for a treat – humpback whales, gray whales, and others are frequently seen! 

Highlights on Maui: “The Valley Isle”

We love Maui the most. We just do. The beaches are some of the best in the world, and we always find ourselves choosing Maui when given a choice of which to visit (we don’t discriminate – we love them all, but there’s just something special about Maui).

1. The Heavenly Road to Hana: The Road to Hana, one of the most famous highways in the country, is a drive you’ll never forget and one of the most anticipated activities for those visiting Maui. But just for the record, the goal isn’t to make it to Hana in a flash, it’s to enjoy all the sites along the way .

There’s roadside waterfalls to gawk at, pineapple smoothies to slurp up, native plants to admire (including the very special Rainbow Eucalyptus), exposed rocky coastline, and fresh, fresh banana bread to snack on.

Plan to spend a bit of time at Wai’anapanapa, one of the black sand beaches on the island, and right along the Road to Hana. And those 7 sacred pools and the Pipiwai Stream Trail through a bamboo forest towards the end of the drive is absolutely spectacular.

2. Wai’anapanapa Black Sand Beach : Dramatic black-sand beaches. Large, secluded sea caves. Volcanic tubes and spouting blowholes. Coastal hiking trails. Even if you aren’t driving the entire Road to Hana, you’ve gotta plan at least a half-day checking out this unique black-sand beach full of smooth black pebbles. 

3. Snorkeling at Molokini and Turtle Town: If you wanna admire the underwater world of Maui , plan to do so at both Molokini (a crescent-shaped partially submerged volcanic crater) and Turtle Town (where turtles are known to hang out). You’ll need a boat to get to these spots, so it’s wise to join a group snorkeling tour, either on catamaran or speed boat.

The visibility is absolutely spectacular (up to 150 feet below the surface), and there’s around 250 species of endemic fish in the area (including pink tail durgons, black triggerfish, butterfly fish, red pencil urchins, yellow tangs, etc). A kaleidoscope of coral awaits!

4. Sunrise at Haleakala National Park: Wake up early, because what’s better than watching the sunrise from atop a volcano ?  It’s a long drive up (and you’ll need to make a reservation), but being above the clouds (literally), is like no other. 

Imagine watching the sunrise above clouds from an active volcano. Mystical. Intoxifying. Other-wordly. Exactly my point. Haleakala does in fact mean “house of the sun”, so you can be positive that view will be worth waking your butt up for. Make sure to take along your warmest colds, as it’s quite chilly up here at 9,740 feet. 

5. Old Lahaina Luau/Feast at Lele : I mean, can you really visit Hawaii and not attend a luau! We loved our time at the Feast at Lele, sipping liquid aloha, scarfing down multiple plates of food, and admiring the traditional dancers. All in all, a very worthy way to spend an evening in Oahu.

6. Kaanapali Beach: With 3 miles of white sand and crystal clear water, it’s no wonder Kaanapali was once named America’s best beach. Enough said. And since it’s oh so close to Black Rock, there’s some pretty excellent snorkeling right off the shore here!

7. Surf Town of Paia : This funky little surf town on the North Shore is full of cute little boutiques, great restaurants, and natural food stores. Great to wander around for an afternoon or so!

8. Napili Bay : Although it’s kinda hidden behind a residential area, this place is wildly popular! Our beach of choice whenever we visit Maui. Psst – don’t miss the fried rice and white chocolate macadamia nut pancakes at The Gazebo Restaurant nearby!

9. Iao Valley State Park : When you’re tired of sunning, check out this lush valley in West Maui. Tons of fantastic hiking through the tropical flora of Hawaii and great views of the Iao Needle and other emerald peaks.

10. Lahaina Banyan Court : As soon as you head under the Banyan Tree, you’ll be wowed that it is in fact just one tree, it is the largest banyan tree in all of the USA afterall, spanning almost 2 acres and rising more than 60 feet. Pretty incredible if you ask me.

Check out how to spend the perfect 5 days in Maui here. 

Where to Stay in Maui

On Maui, you’ll find a wide range of accommodations, including high-end fancy schmancy resorts (with multiple pools and restaurants on site), trendy, boutique hotels, the cutest bed and breakfasts you’ve ever seen, and apartment and condo rentals. 

West Maui (Kaanapali and Lahaina):  This side of the island boasts some of the most beautiful beaches on the island, in my opinion. However, there’s not much nightlife as things close kinda early.

Recommended hotels:

• Aston Kaanapali Shores (absolutely loved the pool and garden area),
• Kaanapali Beach Hotel (fantastic budget option super close to famous Black Rock beach)
• The Westin Maui Resort + Spa
• Hyatt Regency Maui
• Sheraton Maui Resort + Spa

Kihei : If you’re looking for chilled out bliss, stay over here in south Maui. Kihei is more of a local’s beach town, so you’ll find less tourists and more peace and quiet for the most part.

• Maui Coast Hotel
• Nona Lani Cottages
• Maui Beach Vacation Club (condo rentals)

Wailea : Known for its massive five star resort destinations (which often come with a hefty price tag), yet more laid-back than lively Lahaina and Kaanapali. If you’re looking for a more quiet and luxurious upscale place to stay, choose Wailea.

• Hotel Wailea (Adults Only)
• Four Seasons Resort
• Grand Wailea

Where to Eat in Maui: Be sure to grab some garlic shrimp from the Geste Shrimp Truck, a Hawaiian mixed plate from yup – Aloha Mixed Plate, and shave ice from Ululani’s.

Other notable dining spots we enjoy include Leilani’s at the Beach, Lahaina Grill, Kula Lodge (after watching the sunrise at Haleakala), Aunty Sandy’s (great for snacks along the Road to Hana), and the Gazebo restaurant for some white chocolate mac nut pancakes and fried rice.

As mentioned above, The Old Lahaina Luau and Feast at Lele are the most famous luau’s in all of the Hawaiian islands, so be sure to attend one!

And whatever you do, DO NOT LEAVE MAUI without having a meal at Mama’s Fish House (reservations most definitely needed). The menu changes depending on what fish have been caught that day (one of my favorite meals in not only all of Hawaii, but the world. Yup, world).

Highlights on Oahu: “The Gathering Place”

Oahu boasts the infamous Pearl Harbor, Waikiki Beach, and the state capital of Honolulu, making it a great escape for those wanting a good mix of city and beach break. Since most of the state’s visitors live in Honolulu, Oahu will feel a bit more crowded than other islands. It’s got entertainment and amenities of the 21st century, while still holding that Hawaiian charm.

1. Waikiki Beach : One of the most famous beaches in all of Hawaii, and for good reason! 2 miles of soft, white sand, alongside the highrises and backed by palms, make up one of the busiest and most cosmopolitan areas on Oahu. There’s parasailing, boogie boarding, surfing, canoeing, and lots of people watching over here!

2. Hanging out in Honolulu : Can’t come all the way to the islands and miss out on the capital of Hawaii! Honolulu is the biggest city in all of Hawaii, and is known for the the ever-so-popular Waikiki neighborhood, historic landmarks, Diamond Head, mai tai drink, world-class surfing, Hawaiian luaus, and its location as a military fortress.

3. Turtle Beach “Laniakea Beach” : If snorkeling isn’t your thang, you can thankfully still see some of these gentle giants on shore just basking in the sun here at Laniakea Beach on Oahu’s North Shore. The Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles have been frequenting these sands for decades, so do your part and respect them and their land. It’s illegal to chase, injure, hunt, touch, hold, or harass them in any way.

4. Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve: Imagine snorkeling in an aquarium – that’s what it feels like over at Hanauma Bay! This pristine and protected marine ecosystem (former volcanic crater) is full of beautiful coral reef, loads of tropical fish, and other sea life. You may even spot a harmless reef shark if you’re lucky!

5. Hiking Diamond Head: This unusually shaped area is one of the most unique natural structures you’ll come across while Hawaii island hopping, as the land appears to look like a giant crater.

This formation occurs due to Diamond Head being a volcanic tuff cone and dormant volcano, which has resulted in the one-of-a-kind, 150,000 year old structure. Hike across the rocky pathways to the peak, and you’ll be rewarded by a plethora of mesmerizing views. 

6. Pillbox Hike: While not one of the longest trails, the Pillbox hike may be one of the prettiest and historic on this Hawaii itinerary. During your trek you’ll stumble upon 2 aging military bunkers, and witness a stunning panoramic view of Lanikai Beach.

Be prepared for some climbing, and I hope your sense of direction is good – we attempted this hike and for some reason couldn’t even figure out which trail we should be on!

7. Stuff your face silly with Malasadas: there’s no better place on the island for these Portuguese donuts. Just take my word for it and go. You’ll thank me later.

8. Lanikai Beach: If you looked up the definition of a white-sand beach, the first thing that would pop up is a photo of Lanikai! Bleached sand, translucent waters, picturesque palm trees – it’s one of those places perfectly crafted for postcards.

Change into your swimsuit and spend the afternoon dozing on the coast, or taming your adventurous side with kayaking and scuba diving, just don’t forget your sunscreen!

9. Waimea Bay Beach Park: While Hawaii island hopping, you’ll find it difficult to locate a better place to surf than Waimea Bay. Found on the north side of Oahu, this scenic coastline has calm, clear waves perfectly suited for beginner surfers. If surfing isn’t your strong suit, you’ll easily find the ideal spot to kick back and relax on this vast beach. 

10. Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail: Hidden behind a series of twisting, rugged cliffs, you’ll find a tiny, quaint lighthouse facing the ocean. You’ll have to hike the twisting trail upwards first, but I can guarantee the sights are worth the time.  

11. Dole Plantation: This pineapple plantation is easily one of my favorite places on this entire Hawaii itinerary, and that’s not just because I’m a big lover of some juicy fruit.

There is no chance of being bored here, with train rides, garden tours, and endless food available (don’t miss out on the fresh dole whip!). There’s even a pineapple maze. Yes, you heard that right, a giant pineapple maze with pineapple shaped hedges!

12. Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial: Pearl Harbour is a key aspect in American history, and there is no way you can spend 10 days in Hawaii without visiting this memorable monument.

Acting as the resting place for over 1000 sailors, this somber monument commemorates the lives lost during the heart-breaking Pearl Harbor attack, and is sure to bring a tear to your eye. 

Where to Stay on Oahu

Oahu is made up of 5 distinct districts, all with their own unique features and varying weather. I recommend staying in either Leeward Coast, Windward Coast, or Waikiki. 

Waikiki :  If you want to be in a busy area and with endless excitement, the popular Waikiki is definitely where you should be staying.

Recommended hotels: Aqua Skyline (tallest hotel in Waikiki), the Royal Hawaiian Resort (luxury, 5-star hotel), and Aston Waikiki Circle Hotel (stunning views of the ocean).   I’m also mildly obsessed with everything about The Laylow, Autograph Collection.

Haleiwa/North Shore: Found on the western coast of Oahu, you are going to find sunnier and drier weather than other parts of the island. If you’re looking to sunbathe and improve your tan, this is the place for you.

Recommended spots: Waimea Bay Cottage , The Courtyard by Marriott North Shore , and Turtle Bay Resort (epic and amazing on acres and acres of land).

Windward Coast: Located on the eastern side of Oahu, this scenic area is a much greener and wetter option. If you’re looking for vast waters and fruitful plantlife, this is the ideal place to stay.

Recommended hotels: Paradise Bay Resort (beautiful views of the Koolau mountains and Kaneohe bay), Pagoda Hotel (affordable hotel in the heart of Honolulu), and the Pacific Marina Inn (close proximity to the airport). 

Highlights on Kauai: “The Garden Isle”

Kauai is known as the most rugged and robust of all the Hawaiin islands, a perfect escapade for those wanting a little extra adventure. With a multitude of heavenly beaches, from the stunning Na Pali coast to the never-ending Hanalei Bay, many feel like this is the most beautiful of the Hawaiin islands.

Kauai just has it all: vast, crystal-clear waters, majestic waterfalls within magical lagoons, towering trees in tropical forests. With such a dramatic level of natural beauty, it’s not hard to understand why this quaint island is so special.

1. Poipu: With remarkable views straight out of a postcard, and warm sand between your toes, the breath-taking Poipu Beach is not one to be missed.

Unwind beneath the feathery leaves of the bushy palm trees, or subdue your thrill-seeking side with surfing, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Not only a beach, but a town along the south shore of Kauai filled with high-end hotels, resorts, and a main shopping center.

2. Na Pali Coast: Absolutely nothing compares to the jaw-dropping beauty of the Na Pali coast, found on the western side of Kauai. You’ll never be short of things to do at this serene beach: unmissable opportunities to snorkel and kayak in the crystalline ocean, hiking the famous Kalalau Trail with the most spectacular views, and sky-high helicopter rides across the entirety of Kauai.

If you can only stomach a single helicopter ride while in Hawaii, Kauai and it’s gorgeous overhead shots should be a top contender for sure.

3. Take a dip in Queens bath: Dip your toes into this unique tidepool and bathe like a queen (see what I did there?). This picturesque natural sinkhole is surrounded by indiginous rock, and is a wonderful scenic location to relax and enjoy the ocean view. Watch your step as you hop in, as the waves are known to become quite strong, so be sure to be careful. 

4. Waimea Canyon: At 14 miles long and 1 mile wide, this jaw-dropping natural wonder will leave you breathless. Found in the south western area of Kauai, Waimea Canyon is nicknamed the ‘Grand Canyon of the Pacific’, and it’s not hard to see why.

You have the option to either hike or drive towards the impressive canyon, but mind your step as you wander around this awe-inspiring, 3600m deep valley. Take my advice, don’t look down!

5. Tunnels Beach: Kauai is not short on golden beaches, but the magnificent Tunnels beach is not one you can pass out if you’re spending 10 days in Hawaii. Change into your swimsuit and spend an afternoon breathing in the sweet sea-salt breeze and lounging around at this spectacular sandy coastline. 

6. Kilauea Lighthouse: Wander up to Kilauea Point you’ll spot Kilauea lighthouse perched upon a charmingly scenic cliff, where it stands tall and overlooks the vast pacific ocean.

Lose track of time admiring the most stunning panoramic views of Kauai, and keep an eye out for the tropical birds that reside in the area. Make sure to have a firm grip on any food, as some shearwaters and petrels may fly down to try and steal a cheeky snack!

7. Hanalei Bay: Calm and warm waters. Scenic swaying palm trees. Unforgettable views of the picturesque Na Pali mountains. Body surfing, boogie boarding, and kayaking. Beach bums and beach buns. Hanalei Bay will captivate you with its undeniable beauty and abundance of things to do, and is a must-visit location on your Hawaii itinerary.

8. Princeville: On the north shore of Kauai, Princeville is a thriving 9000 acre community full of luxury resorts and beautiful white-sand beaches. From botanical gardens and chocolate tasting, to hiking and waterfall exploration, Princeville really lives up to its name and treats you like royalty (it’s the kind of treatment you, our dear readers, deserve!).

9. Wailua River Kayak and Secret Falls: For those who crave a bit of adventure and epic exploration, the unforgettable trek towards secrets falls will keep you captivated. While on your voyage, you’ll paddle through the sacred Wailua River Valley by kayak, and hike along dirt paths while surrounded by tropical wildlife.

Secret Falls itself is a magical lagoon stolen straight out of a fairy tale, where you can soak in the crystal water and be blown away by one of the monumental waterfalls on the island. 

10. Ziplining: There is no way better to experience the divine Kauai than soaring along the horizon on a zipline. Fly overhead the jungle and experience the gorgeous garden isle from above. Hands down, this the most adrenaline-pumping and thrilling activity on this Hawaii itinerary. 

Where to Stay in Kauai

Most visitors to the island choose to either stay on the north shore (Princeville) or the south shore (Poipu). 

Poipu : This is where we typically stay when we’re visiting Kauai. Besides Poipu Beach being ranked among the top 10 in the states, staying in this area will put you in the middle of so many options for food and drink.

Recommended hotels: Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa  (featuring a lazy river, movies under the stars, saltwater lagoon, spectacular dining views, and more), Sheraton Kauai Resort (oceanfront with Hawaiian dining), and Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu (part of the Autograph Collection!).  

Princeville: A bit more secluded and much more lush than the south shore. Stay here for outta this world snorkeling and beaches with fine golden sand without all the crowds.

Recommended hotels: Princeville Resort (high-end property with a beachfront pool and my first choice), the The Westin Princeville (upscale cliff-top resort), and Hanalei Bay Resort (casual rooms and suites).  

Where to Eat in Kauai: Don’t miss sunset drinks at The Beach House, fresh fish at The Lanai, breakfast bowls at both Little Fish Coffee (my favorite) and Java Kai, and shave ice at Jojo’s.

Highlights on Hawaii: “The Big Island”

If you haven’t guessed already, the Big Island is called “The Big Island” for a reason – it’s huger than huge, and twice the size of all the other islands put together (see, it’s quite large)!

AND it’s actually still growing in size by way of hardened molten lava, thanks to the world’s most active volcano, Kilauea, which is situated right on the island. Pretty neat, eh?

The Big Island has 11 out of 13 of the world’s climatic zones – meaning you’ll find both white sandy beaches, rainforests, snow-capped mountains, and active volcanoes all on the same island.

1. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Is it just me, or is it getting hot, hot, HOT out here? Hawaii is famous for its multitude of active volcanoes, and there’s no better way to safely experience volcanic land than visiting the rugged National Park.

Here you’ll find Kilauea Volcano, which is a whopping 280,000 years old and the most active volcano you’ll experience while Hawaii island hopping. Thrilling crater hikes INTO the active volcano. Intense treks and bike rides alongside scalding steam vents. Wandering through the Thurston Lava Tube, a large cave sculptured by ancient fast-flowing lava. There’s certainly not a shortage of adventures to partake in!

2. ‘Akaka Falls State Park: What’s here you ask? Well, the clues in the name! Home to a multitude of whimsical waterfalls, you can hike along paved paths and be blown away as you explore this lush jungle full of exotic plant-life and wild birds.

3. Mauna Kea Observatory: Being Hawaii’s highest peak at 13,500 feet, this observatory is the best place to get a flawless panoramic view of the Big Island. Perch yourself atop this dormant volcano and be blown away by the remarkable sights. 

4. Kona: Expanding across the west side of Hawaii, Kona is rich with culture. From historical monuments, such as Hulihee Palace and Mokuaikaua Church, to fruitful nightlife and quaint shopping boutiques – this city has it all.

So no matter if you’re in the mood to explore, shop, or throw back a few cocktails (I certainly am at least!), you’ll be sure to find something to do in these busy streets. 

5. Hilo: There is no way you can travel all the way to Hawaii and not explore the Big Island’s capital city! It’s filled with white-sand beaches and dramatic waterfalls. Vast mountains and tropical forests. Classic farmers markets and soaring banyan trees. Hilo is the city of endless opportunities, you’re truly spoilt for choice…

6. Snorkel With Manta Rays: Swimming alongside majestic manta rays is a once in a lifetime experience that cannot be missed, so dip your toes in the water and be prepared for a wild ride.

Considered the birds of the ocean, manta rays have a large span that allows to fly through the water, and watching them move is an absolutely captivating sight. With tours offered at both daytime AND nighttime, you can jump in at anytime and make a splash alongside the rays. 

7. Stargaze: With gorgeous clear skies and lack of light pollution, the Big Island is the place to be for stargazing. While just about everywhere on the island has an unforgettable starry night sky, Mauna Kea and Mauna Lau are particularly famous for their stunning skyline and bright stars.

8. Ka Lae: Being able to say you’ve stood at the southernmost point of the United States is reason enough to visit Ka Lae. If that doesn’t sell you, the unforgettable view from the rugged cliffs sure will. Trust me, nothing compares to having the wind whip through your hair as you stare out across the ocean, it’s like you’re in your own dramatic music video…

9. Snorkel in Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park: Hawaii and it’s magnificent beaches are the perfect place to dip your head under water and snorkel, and Kealakekua Bay is definitely one of the top places to do so.

With clear blue waters and gentle waves, you’ll have a serene experience while submerged underwater. Keep an eye out for yellow tangs, as these tiny yellow fish are known to frequent the waters!

10. Spelunking Kula Kai Caverns: You’ve spent enough time wandering above ground, so slap on a hard hat as it’s time to go venturing below! The Kula Kai caverns are a series of echoey caves and twisting lava tube tunnels, and it’s easy to get lost within the mystifying passageways so be sure to bring along an experienced guide.

11. Waipio Valley and Waterfalls: Within this extraordinary valley you will find the Big Island’s most famous waterfalls: Hiilawe Falls, Akaka Falls, and Rainbow Falls. While hiking through the mind-boggling Waipio, it’ll seem like a tap has been turned on within the hills.

With mile-high waterfalls that spit fast-flowing water into the valleys below, it’s the kind of scene that’ll have you crossing your legs and needing to pee!

12. Punalu’u Black Sand Beach: There’s something so spooky and captivating about a bold black-sanded beach. Golden sand is replaced by darkened basalt, and it will glitter and sparkle beneath your feet. Turtles are often found lounging around under swaying coconut trees, as even the wildlife enjoy relaxing upon this inky-colored coast.

13. Kona Coffee Farm: If you’re tired after an intense Hawaii island hopping adventure, Kona Coffee Farm is going to wake you up and put an extra spring in your step. Tour the endless stretches of farmland, and sample what is considered one of the most gourmet cups of coffee in the world. 

Where to Stay on The Big Island

The big island is split into 9 distinct areas, all with their own unique features and selling points. I recommend staying in Hilo, Kailua-Kona, or a locally-managed apartment/condo. 

Hilo :  In Hilo, you’ll be close to the Volcano National Park, and in general be in closer proximity to volcanic areas and tourist spots.

Recommended Hotels: Hilo Bay Oceanfront Bed and Breakfast (quaint building with the ocean on its doorstep) and  The Inn at Kulaniapia Falls (short walk away from gorgeous lagoon and waterfall). 

Kailua-Kona :  In Kailua-Kona, you’ll be in closer proximity to the rich historical sights and stunning beaches of the big island, and is perfect for travelers wanting to spend their 10 days in Hawaii exploring.

Recommended Hotels: Hale Maluhia Country Inn (a magical little cottage surrounded by nature), Uncle Billy’s Kona Bay Hotel (in the heart of the historic village), and the  Sheraton Kona Resort (high-class, luxury resort).

Are you currently planning a trip around the Hawaiian islands?! What’s on your 10 day Hawaii island hopping itinerary so far?!

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January 1, 2023 at 4:58 pm

I came across your blog, as I was looking for something in particular. I grew up on Oahu. You have some nice suggestions, but have missed some very important sites for first time visitors: Iolani Palace, Bishop Museum; Chinatown; the Hawaiian Mission Houses; The Byodo-In Temple.

December 31, 2023 at 2:51 pm

Honolulu airport is HNL, not HLN. I almost flew to Montana.

January 20, 2024 at 10:57 pm

Whoops, sorry about that! Thanks for catching my error!

March 20, 2024 at 5:41 am

My husband and I are planning a 40th anniversary in February and want to spend 10 days on the Big Island and Maui (We were in Kauia and Oahu for our honeymoon). We plan to go 5 days on each island. We will be flying from Atlanta. to Oahu and then taking small interisland flights. Trying to decide the order of the trip… Do we go first to Big Island (relax a day to overcome jetlag) before heading to Volcano National Park? then head to Maui for Hana and Haleajeaka? Or do the reverse knowing our body clock will naturally wake up super early? But there would be no time to recover with jet lag as I feel Maui will be busier than the BI….The goal is to visit both nationlal parks, and hiking, IAO Valley, Snorkel Molokini, luau, manta ray swimming and whale watching! Also looking to stay central on each island on a budget! Any suggestions are welcome.

March 20, 2024 at 8:42 pm

Hi Cady — congrats on 40 years! Simply amazing! When I go on trips, I always try and do the fast-paced, busy stuff first (so in this case Maui) while I have energy, and then save the more relaxing area for afterwards (BI). Doesn’t always work out this way, but it’s what I prefer if it does! Like you said, you’ll wake up early regardless, so if I were you, I’d have something planned for those first two mornings in Maui. You can wake up early (because of jet lag), do your fun morning activity, and then spend a bit of time relaxing/taking it easy in the afternoon. Definitely try and stay up as late you can those first few days to combat jet lag at least a little bit! But no matter what order you do it, it’s gonna be amazing! <3

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Experience life in Hawaii with a local girl.

Welcome To Hawaii!

Aloha! I’m Amy and this Hawaii blog is all about traveling and living in Hawaii from a local point of view. Join me as I explore the outdoors, visit attractions, eat at mom-n-pop shops, cook local dishes, and live sustainably my way on these beautiful islands I’m lucky enough to call home.

I’m so excited to share my life in Hawaii with you! I hope this blog gives you some fantastic ideas and inspires you to take advantage of wherever home is for you.

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The Ultimate Hawaii Travel Guide

What do you think of when you think of paradise? I’m willing to bet that it’s some combination of white sand beaches, swaying palm trees, sunny rays and lazy beach days. Well, throw in snorkeling, surfing, volcanoes & leis and say alooooha to the beautiful islands of Hawaii.

Growing up in California, we have always gone to Hawaii at least once a year on a family vacation, and thinking about it, I think I’ve been to Hawaii more than I’ve been to any other destination in the world! This is because it is simply the perfect spot for families, for beach-lovers, and for everyone. Some of my best memories as a kid are sliding down the hotel water slides, dancing with hula girls during a luau on Ka’anapali beach, and seeing my first sea turtle while snorkeling. I treasure all of our family trips to Hawaii, which is why I continue to get the can’t-fight-it urge to keep coming back year after year, and why I know that all of you will love it.

So now let’s get to the good stuff: Which island of Hawaii is best to travel to?

That depends on what you’re looking for! Hawaii is made up of eight main islands, all that cater to a different traveler.

Table of Contents

My personal favorite island of Hawaii, Maui is the resortiest of all the islands, and has a little bit of everything. Stretches of beautiful beaches, luxe Maui resorts , and great snorkeling make this island the top Hawaiian destination, year after year. There’s a reason Conde Nast readers have voted Maui the best island in the world — for 17 years and counting!!!!

Where to stay in Maui:

The Four Seasons Maui

The Four Seasons Maui is one of Hawaii’s most beautiful, luxurious, and exclusive resorts, and is hands down my choice of where to stay for luxury in Maui . I love this hotel so much that it’s where my husband and I got married ! We couldn’t think of a more perfect place, and now we make it back every year – it’s so special to us!

The Andaz is many people’s favorite hotels on Maui. It has a sleek, young, country-club ambiance and stunning oceanfront views, with 4 infinity pools, 2 restaurants, a full-service spa, and 15 acres on stunning Waikapu Beach. Each Andaz room also comes with its own balcony, perfect for watching those unbeatable Maui sunsets. 

Sheraton Maui.

This has always been one of my favorite Maui resorts. Located at the end of Ka’anapali beach at Black Rock, the hotel boasts some of the best snorkeling on the island right outside of your hotel room. The pool is to die for, winding around most of the property, and the hotel staff does everything they can to make your stay memorable, from their luaus and activities to their nightly sunset jumps off of Black Rock (daring Hawaiian men jump off of the famous rock and into the ocean for the sunset show!). It’s also a Starwood Preferred Guest ( spg.com ) resort (look into becoming a member if you travel a lot, great discounts and earn points for luxury hotel stays).

Grand Wailea- A Waldorf Astoria Hotel.

You won’t find a more perfect hotel for the family. The Grand Wailea , with countless waterslides, beautiful coastal views, and more activities than you can imagine, this hotel is gorgeous and, as its name implies, grand. Although there is a little more going on in the area of Kaanapali, (where the Westin & Sheraton are located) the Grand Wailea has enough activities at the hotel to keep you and your family more than occupied during your stay. They also have a gorgeous seaside chapel that is always booked with beautiful coastal destination weddings.     

Westin Maui

Located a couple miles down Kaanapali beach from the Sheraton is the Westin. Another one of my personal favorites. It has five pools, complete with slides and waterfalls, a golf course, and great oceanfront restaurants. It is a top notch family resort with tons of activities that will definitely make your trip. Another Starwood Preferred Guest resort!

Where to eat in Maui

Mama’s fish house.

Located pretty far away from where I usually stay in Maui (Ka’anapali), I always find this restaurant worth the drive. The fish is incredible. Without a doubt the best, freshest fish I have ever tasted. The menu is contemporary Polynesian, putting a modern twist on Hawaii’s culinary history, and it is delicious. Do not miss out on this restaurant. Take one look at the menu and you’ll see why. Fresh caught swordfish sauteed in coconut milk over coconut rice? Crispy kahlua duck? Taha’a Island vanilla seared ahi? Take a sip of Mama’s famous Mai Tai, watch the sunset over the Pacific, feel your fresh caught mahi-mahi melt in your mouth and boom. You’re in paradise. www.mamasfishhouse.com

For something closer to your hotel, you can’t go wrong with Duke’s. And, as hard as it is for a UNC grad to be recommending you to go to a restaurant called “Duke’s”, this place is pretty awesome. Duke’s has expanded across Hawaii, so you can find one on pretty much any island you go to. The Maui Duke’s is right on Ka’anapali beach, a perfect beach walk from your hotel away. Great fish and hawaii faves! A great drink list as well, so if you’re not feelin’ a full meal, go for drinks and pupus (pupus is hawaiian for appetizers!) www.dukesmaui.com

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, or just need an excuse to eat some amazing food and pop some champagne over the Hawaiian coast, Merriman’s is your place. Amazing sunset dining! The food is fantastic. A little pricey, but so fun for a special occasion. My favorite pupu? The warm crusted goat cheese with strawberries salad. Ah-mazing. You also can’t go wrong with a little tasting of the kalua pig and maui sweet onion quesadilla- yum. For your entree, you’ll have your choice of fresh seafood or impeccable meats, and don’t forget to save room for their delicious desserts. Merriman’s. One Bay Club Place, Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii.

Enjoy my breakfast overlooking the white sandy beaches of Hawaii in a beautiful gazebo? Why thank you, I shall. This breakfast place is soooo cute, has the best view, and is delicious! A little out of the way, overlooking Napili bay, but it’s worth it for the stunning setting. Gazebo 5315 Lower Honoapiilani Road, Lahaina, HI

Longhi’s in Lahaina is a great place to go! I love their breakfasts (especially the french toast) but they serve lunch and dinner as well. In old town Lahaina, so go for a sunny breakfast and of course a pretty oceanside view 888 Front Street, Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii www.longhis.com

What to do in Maui

Go to a luau..

Hawaiian luaus, a big dinner/dancing/drinking cultural celebration complete with a pig roasting, are definitely a must-do on your trip to Hawaii. Throw on your hawaiian party shirt and go out and have a great time. Your hotel will most likely host their own, and they don’t differ too much luau-to-luau, so my recommendation is to sign up for your hotel’s and enjoy your celebratory evening on the beach! Sometimes, hotels will also offer hula lessons for the kids. I did this at the Sheraton when I was little and they brought me and a few other girls, dressed up in hula skirts they gave us, up on stage during the nighttime luau to dance with the beautiful hawaiian girls- definitely memorable for my all-too-excited seven-year-old self.

Old town Lahaina is definitely a fun activity to do while in Maui. It’s a separate, less resortey area of Maui with great shops and restaurants. Sit back with a tropical drink and watch the sunset. Maui is all about relaxation. So don’t worry about planning your trip out too much and realize your most memorable moments in Maui will be doing a whole lot of nothing. All while seeing some of the most spectacular sights & sunsets you’ll ever get to see. Take it all in and enjoy the island life.

Where to stay in Kauai

For the celeb treatment – get a bungalow at the lodge at kukui’ula  .

Located on the sunny side of the island in South Kauai, The Lodge at Kukui’ula is where to feel like a celebrity on Kauai. As a guest at The Lodge at Kukui’ula , you will enjoy private access to all the Club amenities – ocean view cocktails at sunset, gourmet dining with farm fresh ingredients, signature spa treatments, Peacock Bass fishing at the lake, private picnic at the upcountry farm, a round of golf on our award-wining Tom Weiskopf course, or a kayak ride or the spectacular Koke`e hike. Just a short drive away you will find The Shops at Kukui`ula, with great dining, shops, restaurants, cafes, galleries, etc.

The best hikes in Kauai

The Napili Coast Hike

This hike is TOUGH, but it is the most popular hike in Napili, and trust me, the views are worth the workout. If you go all the way to the waterfall, you’re looking at an all day hike, but we chose to do the “half hike” just to the beach, which was absolutely breathtaking.

Oahu is not only the island with the biggest population, it is home to the capital city of Honolulu. I love Honolulu. It’s one of the few true beach cities in the world (how many can you think of? Miami….Sydney….Rio) and it is bustling and beautiful. A completely different experience from Maui, but you don’t miss out on the stunning Hawaiian beaches (see my pictures from my last trip!) If you want the perfect combination of a relaxing beach vacation with the excitement of an urban city- Oahu is your island.

Where to stay in Oahu

An understated luxe, peaceful oasis with an emphasis on 6-star service, set right on the main strip of Waikiki beach. This hotel is casual-yet-refined and is home to two of the best restaurants in the city: La Mar for fine dining and House Without a Key. I loooved their breakfast!

Royal Hawaiian

A luxury resort also known as the Pink Palace of the Pacific, the Royal Hawaiian has long been known as one of Hawaii’s flagship hotels. Its iconic pink architecture has brought in celebrities and royal guests for decades, originally known as a getaway for classic Hollywood stars. Today, with multi-million dollar renovations and its prime Waikiki beach real estate (right near the Moana), the Pink Palace continues to be a traveler favorite on Oahu. 

Want to get out of the city? You can also choose to stay on Oahu outside of Waikiki, as you can find more secluded beach resorts lining the beaches up the coast, as well as hotels on the North Shore, a stretch of Oahu famous for its huge surfing waves.

The Four Seasons Oahu Ko Olina

This Four Seasons gem is a short drive from the hustle and bustle of Honolulu, making it a nice place to base close-enough to the city, but far enough away that you can fully relax. Set on a secluded protected beach, it is perfect for paddle-boarding and offers easy access to uncrowded West Side beaches. This is a fantastic option for anyone going on a Hawaii honeymoon that may want a bit more privacy but still want to be close by to the action!

Where to Stay on The North Shore:

Turtle bay resort.

You may recognize this resort as the setting of Forgetting Sarah Marshall! is where the “7-Mile Miracle” of world-class surf begins, and the lineup is endless. With this as your home base, you can explore North Shore’s shrimp trucks, pristine beaches, and plantation-style towns.

Ke Iki Beach Bungalows

I absolutely loved getting away to North Shore Oahu and the sleepy, adorable town of Haleiwa. Ke Iki has awesome oceanfront bungalows, where you can enjoy romantic sunsets on an acre and a half of palm-fringed beachfront land. All beachfront bungalows has bean fully remodeled in 2020 and have beautiful ocean and sunset views.

Where to eat in Oahu

Where to eat in oahu, waikiki/honolulu area, coffee and breakfast:.

Kai Coffee at the Alohilani hotel – Where you can get a taste of Hawaii’s famous Kona coffee. I loooved their coffee, we went every day. My order is the oat milk latte, but they have everything, and the coffee is super good. 

Kona Coffee Purveyors – Artisan coffee paired with flakey french pasties right on the Waikiki strip. This place will make you feel like you’re in Europe. 

ARS Cafe and Espresso Bar – Half Cafe, half art gallery. This spot is perfect for a craft latte and an avo toast!

Island Vintage Coffee – Another classic spot with high quality craft coffee and small bites and amazing acai bowls!

Scratch Kitchen – Making all your breakfast dreams com true, from healthy bites to fried chicken on waffles. 

Heavenly Island Lifestyle – Pop into the Shoreline Hotel in Waikiki for some fo the BEST breakfast around. Eggs benny, acai bowls and even breakfast Pho. The menu has a map of the islands showing where all their ingredients are sourced from.

Casual Bites:

Ono Poke – Casual but some of the BEST poke on the island!

South Shore Grill – the best fish burritos and tacos around!! Get the cajun shrimp!

Off the Hook – amaaazing poke off the beaten path.

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Off The Hook Poke Market (@offthehookpokemarket)

Dinner/Drinks:

House Without a Key – A Waikiki staple located at the Halekulani Hotel. Go for sunset Mai Tais and live music!

Helena’s Hawaiian Food – While it isn’t overly fancy, Henela’s is a Michelin Star and James Beard Award-winner restaurant. They are the pioneers in defining traditional Hawaiian food. Not only is it delicious, but it is a cultural experience to eat there!

Morimoto Asia Waikiki – Calling all Iron Chef lovers! This is the flagship restaurant of Iron Chef Morimoto where you can indulge in Asian Dim Sum, sushi and large plates! I LOVED this spot.

Nobu Honolulu- For high grade sushi, great for a special date night or honeymoon outing, look no further than Nobu.

M by Chef Marvo – For arguably the best fine dining in Hawaii. Curated by one of Oahu’s most famous chef, this restaurant serves Hawaiian-French fusion cuisine! The food is refined and the ingredients are always fresh. Do the tasting menu for a truly unique foodie experience. 

The North Shore

The North Shore is a bit more laid-back, you’re not going to find much fine dining here, but you will find delicious and healthy local eats!

Farm To Barn Cafe and Juicery – healthy buddha bowls, salads, smoothies and sandwiches! Also GREAT for breakfast!

Banzai Sushi – The best sushi on the North Shore! Hands down.

Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck – Long lines start to form around lunch and dinner time, everyone wanting the same thing: homemade shrimp scampi! There are other good food trucks serving up shrimp classics, but this one is the best!

Aji Limo Food Truck – For Peruvian / Japanese fusion lunch bites!

The Sunrise Shack – the Sunrise Shack is a North Shore MUST. Grab an acai bowl served in a papaya and an avocado toast! And if you don’t leave with an instagram photo here did you even really go to the North Shore?!

Haleiwa Bowls – Another crave-worthy Hawaiian acai bowl pit stop!

Beet Box Cafe – great for healthy, vegan and organic eats, a perfect lunch stop.

Kahuku Farms –  an amazing outdoor cafe serving up fresh food directly from their garden (that is only 10 ft away). Grab a salad, panini or farm pizza!

What to see in Oahu

Pearl harbor.

A must if you like American history and are staying in Honolulu. The Pearl Harbor site is incredible. When I went, they even had one of the survivors there talking to visitors, answering questions and taking pictures. I still remember him and how every picture he took he threw up the typical hawaiian hand gesture for “hang loose”. He was awesome, and told me and a group of friends stories about that day that will forever live in infamy.

Sunset sail. Catamaran sail boats depart right out of Waikiki. Talk about a beautiful and romantic setting. Definitely look into taking one if you’re staying on Waikiki Beach!

The Big Island

The Big Island gets its name because it is Hawaii’s biggest island (duh). The best beaches and weather are on the Kona side of the island, rather than the Hilo side. So, if you’re a beach and snorkel lover, you’re going to want to fly in and book a hotel on the Kona side or the Kohala Coast. Kona (also famous for its coffee) has some of the biggest and best hotels ever. 

Here’s where I like to stay:

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai.

Four Seasons Hualalai is an oasis on the Big Island’s super dry Kona coast. It is only 15 minutes from the airport (huge win), boasts one of the most stunning golf courses in the world (Jack Nicklaus-designed), a gorgeous coastline and stretch of beach, and, my favorite part, SEVEN pools. That’s right – seven! Including one that’s a saltwater ocean lagoon full of wildlife for snorkeling! So cool.

The Best Activities on the Big Island

When it comes to Hawaii, I’m admittedly more of a “drop me on a beach with a bikini and some magazines and pick me up in 7 days” kind of vacationer. I mean, cut me some slack, with beaches as gorgeous as these, sunny days as beautiful, and snorkeling for when I need to cool off in the water, I think I’ve got all I need. Luckily, I have a dad who managed to convince me, my mom and brother on a recent trip to get out of our ‘tan, rinse, repeat’ routine and go see the majestic Hawaiian volcanoes. Quite a drive away, but how many times in your life can you say you’ve seen HOT LAVA?! It is so, so cool. The Hawaiian islands were actually created from volcanic activity millions of years ago, meaning that they were originally just supposed to be the peaks of an underwater mountain range… Luckily for us and thanks to volcanic activity and plate tectonics, we now have the islands of Hawaii. Ask your hotel about tours or how to drive to the Volcanoes National Park. Definitely an amazing experience. www.gohawaii.com/big-island/volcanoes-national-park

Scuba/snorkel Trips.

Daily scuba and snorkel trips depart out of Kona, and it’s some of the best! They’ll take you many places only accessible by boat, so it’s great to do these boat trips if you love to snorkel or scuba.

Whale watching.

From late December to early May, whales make their way migrating from Alaska all the way to the warm waters of Hawaii, keep an eye out for their beautiful breeches! Take a whale watching tour or just keep an eye out from the shore. It sure is a gorgeous sight to see them in the wild.

Swim with dolphins.

Definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience. If you’re staying at the Hilton Waikoloa, they have it right there. If you’re willing to splurge for the experience, do it. Dolphins are my favorite animals, and I had the best time getting to swim with them

I’ve yet to find a more perfect beach vacation than Hawaii, and like I said it’s that place that you just keep wanting to come back to year after year. I love it for the sunsets, the ocean, the relaxation, the unique island culture, the one-of-a-kind beaches, and, yes, for the beautiful luxe resorts… I can’t help it- I’m a sucker for a great hotel. But, mostly I love Hawaii because of all the memories I have there.

Lanai is the best Hawaiian island for a honeymoon because of its focus on seclusion and total relaxation.

Where to stay on Lanai

The four seasons lanai.

A secluded luxury oasis with 5-star restaurants like Nobu and Malibu Farm, and an out-of-this-world breakfast buffet that will keep you full until dinner! This is one of the most exclusive resorts in Hawaii, and is hands down a favorite among honeymooners. 

Check out these other posts:

Jetset christina’s ultimate guide to maui, jetset christina’s hawaii honeymoon guide, jetset christina’s ultimate guide to kauai.

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WRITTEN BY: Christina

Christina is a leading luxury lifestyle and travel blogger with over 2 million readers. Follow her on instagram @jetsetchristina.

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Hawaii Travel Guide

Hawaii travel advice, things to do, accommodations, tours, and activities, aloha - e komo mai, welcome to hawaiiguide.

Hawaii is a land of great  diversity , beauty, and many contradictions. The permeating spirit of Aloha , the rich culture of the people, and the sacred and historical traditions passed down for generations continue to define these isolated islands. Mother Nature pulled out all the stops when forming this incredible place. 

From lush rainforests to barren deserts , Hawaii is as eclectic a place as you'll ever visit. A favorite getaway for people worldwide, Hawai'i has become famous for its miles of beaches , erupting volcanoes , lush rainforests , exquisite food , and exotic flora and fauna .

— article continued below —

Makua ‘Tunnels’ Beach on the North Shore of Kauai

At HawaiiGuide.com , we understand that planning a trip to Hawaii can seem a bit overwhelming. From which island to visit , when to travel , what tours and activities to try, what to pack , where to visit, and what to expect once you get there- it can all make your head spin!

That's why we've assembled this website and organized it accordingly; to help make your Hawaiian vacation seamless - from start to finish . If you're just getting started, we recommend you begin your journey here .

Explore the Hawaiian Islands

Kauai | Oahu | Molokai | Lanai | Maui | Big Island

FREE Hawaii Summary Guidesheets

Updated with a new summary map for  each Hawaii Island  + estimated driving times from popular starting points.

Includes the top  must-see & do  attractions,  best times to visit ,  where to stay  briefing,  airport detail , a monthly  weather summary , and where to find the most  noteworthy local ono 'grindz'  (best eats) on each respective Hawaiian Island.

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About Hawaii-Guide

Our team & website.

Hawaii-Guide.com (HawaiiGuide.com) was developed by John & Victoria Derrick, two certified Hawaii destination experts , to provide Hawaii visitors with everything they’ll need to create the perfect Hawaii trip. Each year, we currently help as many as  15 million travelers  with planning their ideal Hawaii trip(s). Since 2002, our Hawaii website has assisted tens of millions of additional visitors in the process of planning and booking the Hawaiian vacation of their dreams. For 20 years now, this website, and our team have been dedicated to being the  one-stop resource for all things Hawaii . We'd genuinely love to be your virtual guide to the islands of Hawaii; Plan, Book, Pack, and Go with Hawaii Guide! Now, more than ever, we believe in the promotion of  responsible travel and sustainable/regenerative tourism . Be a pono traveler and malama Hawaii !

Kilauea Eruption on the Big Island

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Our products are designed to help you make the most of your time in Hawaii - from the most popular attractions and activities to the hidden gems. With our products, you can plan the perfect vacation, from which beaches to visit to which restaurants to try. We offer most of our Hawaii Visitor Planners in two formats, digital (for on-the-go use) and print (a physical hard copy). Our travel guides & planners are produced by John and Victoria Derrick, two certified Hawaii Destination Experts.

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Makalawena Beach on the West Coast of the Big Island

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Timely hawaii headlines, events, and announcements.

In our Hawaii blog, we'll cover everything from the best places to visit, to the most exciting festivals and events, to the most interesting attractions and landmarks. We'll also provide updates on major news stories or developments so that you can stay informed on the go.

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Hawaii sights, beaches, hikes, and more....

Plumeria - Hawaii's most popular lei flower

EXPLORE HAWAII

Which island & when to visit.

What is the Best Time to Visit Hawaii?

When is the best time of year to travel to hawaii.

Ultimately, in our honest opinion - there isn't an inopportune time to go to Hawaii. Visiting Hawaii is a dream come true for many visitors, and who can blame them? The weather is  fantastic  nearly year-round, there's  something to do  for  everyone , and the food is  phenomenal  (try laulau, trust us!).

In this article, we'll tackle a number of important topics to help you decide when to visit, including monthly Hawaii Hotel & Airline Rates, the Best Time for FAQ (Whalewatching, Hiking, Getting Married, etc.), Weather through the year, and we even have a quiz to help select your top four months!

Best time to visit?

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Which Hawaii Island should you visit?

Take our quiz to find the best hawaiian island for you....

Like many visitors to Hawaii, you're probably wondering  which Hawaii island to visit  and thinking about which one would be best for you and your travel party. Unlike many destinations, Hawaii is not really one destination - but six unique, eclectic, and diverse island destinations that all happen to be within the same state.

The islands are very diverse, and each one has its own unique offerings, making choosing an island rather difficult, especially for first-time visitors. And once you've started visiting the islands, coming back to a different island can often feel like a totally different place with a whole new set of experiences, sights, and attractions. Like us, we’re sure you’ll soon have a personal favorite. But until you know from experience, take our handy ' Which Island to visit Quiz ' to determine your best match.

Which Island?

Endemic Iiwi - Native Hawaiian Honeycreeper

Nene - Hawaiian State Goose

Brazilian Cardinal on the Big Island of Hawaii

Moa - Red Jungle Fowl (a.k.a. Kauai Chicken)

Things To Do On Each Island

Maui - The Valley Island

Travel guide to maui.

Maui has been a favorite tourist destination for decades because it represents the quintessential tropical getaway . With its beautiful coastal views, eclectic volcanoes, wildlife sanctuaries nearby, and a vast majority of the island left wild and free from rampant development; there are countless things to do in Maui that will leave you authentically charmed!

With its resorts along the coastline, picturesque beaches, majestic palm trees, and rich agriculture, it's no wonder that people from all over the world flock to this verdant island to get a taste of what Hawaii is really all about.

Maui is the second-largest landmass in the Hawaiian island chain, at approximately 727 square miles, and the second-most visited island in Hawaii. In our opinion, it makes for a great choice for those who are first-time visitors.

Explore Maui »

Maui Attractions »

Oahu - The Gathering Place

Travel guide to oahu.

Known as the "Gathering Place," Oahu is Hawaii's most populous island; and many believe it the perfect representation of paradise. Oahu is primarily defined by the state capital of Honolulu, Pearl Harbor, and the world-famous Waikiki Beach. These areas host thousands of tourists daily. To say Oahu is brimming with amazing things to see and points of interest is a massive understatement. Nearly anywhere you go on Oahu, you're bound to find something fascinating.

Oahu is the third-largest island in the state of Hawaii, but it is definitely ranked first in population. Nearly a million people share Oahu's 600 square miles of mountains and beaches - that's a full three-quarters of the state's population.  Oahu is also the most visited of all the Hawaiian islands.

Explore Oahu »

Oahu Attractions »

Kauai - The Garden Island

Travel guide to kauai.

Kauai is an island full of splendor, raw beauty, and culture; an island that, like no other, represents the true spirit of aloha. The island really is a true hidden gem of sorts . Over 90% of the island cannot be reached by road. In fact, the most beautiful part of the whole island, the majestic Na Pali Coastline, has no road near it - and most Kauai lovers like it that way. The island, arguably we'll admit, also boasts more coastline filled with amazing beaches than any other island in the chain. If you love verdant scenery, enjoy hiking, and are looking for a more rural Hawaiian vibe, this is the island for you!

Kaua'i is the oldest of all the main Hawaiian Islands, dating back some 5.1 million years. The island is nearly circular in shape with a land area encompassing 533 square miles. Kauai is both the fourth-largest island in the Hawaiian chain and is the fourth most visited island in Hawaii.

Explore Kauai »

Kauai Attractions »

Hawaii - The Big Island

Travel guide to hawaii island.

The Big Island of Hawaii seems determined to break the norm; the stereotype of the average tropical island, that is. Here you'll find the ongoing battle between green forests, black lava fields, the ocean, and the rain almost incomprehensible; the  diversity  is simply stunning . On the Big Island, it's always best to expect the unexpected. Even the beaches don't follow the rules here. It's almost easier to find a black sand beach than a white one, and if you're adventurous enough, you can even sink your toes into one of the world's few green sand beaches.

The Big Island of Hawaii is the third most popular Hawaiian island among visitors and is, of course, the largest island in the state. The landmass of the Big Island is approximately the same size as the state of Connecticut, about 4,050 sq. miles, and still growing regularly thanks to Kilauea Volcano on the eastern coast of the island.

Explore Big Island »

Big I Attractions »

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Honopu Valley - West Kauai

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HawaiiGuide ('Hawaii-Guide') offers personalized Hawaii travel advice and vacation tips on the top attractions and things to see and do within the Hawaiian islands. HawaiiGuide features all of the best attractions in Hawaii — plus you can explore our handpicked Hawaii tours, activities, and accommodations - each vetted by our team of Hawaii experts.

Hiking on Oahu

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HAWAII TRAVEL RESOURCES

Information for all hawaii visitors, visiting hawaii, upcoming months of travel.

We think it is safe to say that any month of the year you will not be disappointed when you visit the Hawaiian islands. Here's an overview of what to expect in the coming months. Not sure when to visit? Read about the  Best Month to Visit , where we present an overview of each month OR take the quiz on our Best Time to Visit Hawaii page.

Near Kalalau Lookout on Kauai

Explore each Hawaiian Island

Explore the spectacular Hawaiian Islands, each a unique paradise waiting to be explored. From the emerald valleys of Kaua'i to the sun-kissed beaches of Maui, from the dramatic landscapes of the Big Island to the iconic waves of Oahu, each island offers its distinctive allure. The beauty of Hawaii is as diverse as it is profound. Uncover the secrets of these enchanting isles - their vibrant culture, breathtaking nature, rich history, and so much more.

Gecko - common on all the main Hawaiian Islands

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HAWAII TRAVEL BLOG independent traveler’s guide to planning Hawaii vacation for the first time

quick links! in the news: lahaina banyan tree hawaiian islands  | maui  | oahu  | big island  | lanai Hawaii tourist towns: waikiki  | kona Hawaii oceanfront resort areas: waikiki  | west maui  | south maui hawaii national parks  | haleakala national park  | hawaii volcanoes national park

For a first trip to Hawaii , most people will go to one of 4 Hawaiian islands: Oahu , Maui , the Big Island , or Kauai. There is also Lanai and Molokai, and these are smaller islands, both in size and population.

If you’re undecided on which Hawaiian island to choose, start here!

• Comparing 2 of the best Hawaiian islands (well, they are all the best in their own way 😉)
• Best Hawaiian island without a car
• Best Hawaiian island for solo travel
• Best Hawaiian island to see old lava flows (aka lava fields)
• The best of Maui in 3 days
• The best of the Big Island in 7 days
• The best of Oahu in 3 days
• Best Maui beaches
• Best Oahu beaches

National parks in Hawaii

How to spend 7 days in hawaii.

Read the post about it: Big Island Hawaii itinerary

How to spend 3 days in Hawaii with a car rental

Read the post about it: Maui Hawaii itinerary

How to spend 3 days in Hawaii without a car

Read the post about it: Oahu Hawaii itinerary

Hiking in Hawaii

And hiking in Hawaii is a great way to see amazing views in Hawaii! These are hikes in Hawaii that are perfect for a first trip to Hawaii:

• The best hikes on Maui
• The best hikes on Oahu
• The best hikes on the Big Island
• The best hikes on Lanai
• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (Big Island)
• Haleakala National Park (Maui)
• Pearl Harbor National Memorial (Oahu)

Tips for planning a trip to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Big island, hawaii.

• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park travel guide
• THE former lava lake crater hike to do: Kilauea Iki Trail
• More planning tips for a trip to the Big Island

Tips for planning a trip to Haleakala National Park

Maui, hawaii.

• Haleakala National Park travel guide
• THE summit area volcano crater hike to do: Sliding Sands Trail
• THE bamboo forest hike: Pipiwai Trail
• Camping in the coastal area with ocean views: Kipahulu campground
• More planning tips for a trip to Maui

Also see the bigger lists of things to do in Hawaii

• Things to do on Maui
• Things to do on the Big Island
• Things to do on Oahu
• Things to do on Lanai

HAWAII PACKING TIPS

What to pack for hawaii.

• Everyday Hawaii essentials
• Snorkeling essentials for Hawaii
• Hiking essentials for Hawaii
• Camping essentials for Hawaii

HAPPY HAWAII TRAVEL PLANNING!

Welcome to Hawaii Travel Spot, your source for insider information to plan an epic Hawaiian vacation! On this Hawaii travel blog you’ll find must-read tips for every island and every type of travel, all written by someone who has seen and done it all during dozens of Hawaii trips.

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Want to eliminate the stress of planning your Hawaii vacation? Grab our expert, in-depth guides to jump-start your trip!

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Hawaii Family Travel Blog

From the best luau’s to where to swim with turtles, our Hawaii family travel blog explores the best things to do in Hawaii with kids

Explore The Island Paradise Of The Hawaiian Islands

There is no destination more idyllic for family travel than the state of Hawaii. This tiny chain of 8 islands in the middle of the Pacific Ocean seem almost designed to be the perfect vacation getaway. The weather is amazing year-round. It rarely experiences tropical storms. And the local customs are among the most welcoming in the world.

Surrounded by topaz-blue water that is teeming with life, the Hawaiian Islands feel like a lifetime away from the continental United States. And, with their remote location, they kind of are. It takes a minimum of six and a half hours to reach Honolulu from the Mainland. But once you get there, you can relax in a paradise that almost always surpasses expectations.

The main island in the Hawaiian chain is Oahu. It’s home to the capital of Honolulu, Diamondback mountain, and the famed Waikiki Beach. The Island of Kauai is a raw and beautiful destination that holds the largest canyon on any of the Hawaiian Islands, the majestic Waimea Canyon . It also has a nearly untouched interior where you can experience tubing through sugar plantations and tunnels .

The island of Maui is the most popular of the Hawaiian Islands after Oahu. Centered by the epic but dormant Haleakala Volcano, Maui is home to the most famous road trip in Hawaii, the road to Hana. Maui is laid out as two volcanoes centered by a wide valley. The island is famous as one of the best snorkeling destinations in Hawaii. And it’s also one of the best islands to do whale tours. Maui is also the base for most people looking to take tours of the sparsely populated island of Lanai.

Molokai is the fifth largest Hawaiian island. This island is primarily laid out for agriculture and ranching. But its epic sea cliffs make it a popular destination for explorers and bird lovers. The smallest of the Hawaiian Islands is Kahoolawe. This island is just 45 square miles, and completely uninhabited. The island was once used for military testing, and unexploded ordinances are still being cleaned up.

The most mysterious of the islands in Hawaii is Niihau. This privately owned island is the home to a group of Hawaiian indigenous people who choose to live in the style of their ancestors. Access to the island is prohibited except by a limited number of tour companies and businesses.

The island of Hawaii, or “ The Big Island” as it is commonly referred to, is the largest of the Hawaiian Islands. The island is home to the tallest mountain on earth, Mauna Kea . And the highly active Kilauea volcano in Volcanoes National Park is constantly erupting adding more and more land to the raw shores of this spectacular island.

Read Our Most Popular Hawaii Family Travel Blog Posts

Tips For Family Travel In Hawaii

Our Hawaii Guide will give you a breakdown of what you need to know about family travel to Hawaii. If you’re new to international family travel , I highly recommend checking out our well-researched trip planning resources . It’s full of proven family travel hacks.

• The capital of Hawaii is Honolulu , which is located on the island of Oahu.
• Hawaiian weather remains very consistent year-round. Expect rain showers that are frequent and intense but often very short-lived. The islands are very mountainous, so if you plan on exploring higher areas such as Haleakala on Maui or Mauna Kea on the Big Island, expect drastic temperature drops and near-freezing temperatures.
• Cell phone service is readily available throughout the United States. Sim chips are available and can be added to unlocked phones. I have used the Airalo eSim app for all of my international travel.

Important Words And Phrases To Know When Traveling In Hawaii

There are two official languages in Hawaii, English, and Hawaiian. While English is found everywhere and no visitor will have a challenge finding locals who speak it, even those who move to the country embrace the beautiful Hawaiian language, and it is often intertwined with English as the local dialect.

It’s always helpful to know a few words in the Indigenous language whenever you travel to a new destination. So here are a few important Hawaiian words to know before you visit.

Important Spanish Words To Know:

Yes:  Ae

No:  Aʻole

Thank You:  Mahalo

Thank You Very Much:  Mahalo nui loa iā ‘oe

You’re Welcome:  Noʻu ka hauʻoli

Please:  E ‘oluʻolu

Excuse Me:  E kala mai iaʻu

Hello: Aloha

Goodbye:  Aloha

Bathroom: Lua

How To Stay Connected And Get Internet And Phone Service In The United States

Most major cities throughout the United States have excellent cellular service. If you have an older phone, I highly recommend purchasing a sim either at the airport or as one of your first stops on your travels.

If you have a newer eSim capable phone, you can save yourself time by purchasing an eSim ahead of time and having it activated before you arrive.

There are many companies that offer this service. I have used Airalo for years . It has been seamless in over ten countries. They have World, Regional, and Country-Specific eSims available. The price goes down the more specific you get. The regional sims allow for easy country-hopping if you are visiting multiple destinations.

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The Ultimate Hawaii Travel Guide (from a Hawaii Local!)

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Are you looking for the ultimate Hawaii travel guide? This guide from a Hawaii local is essential to your upcoming Hawaii vacation!

When planning a trip to Hawaii, there is a lot to consider. When should you visit? Which islands should you visit? How much will it cost to go on holiday in Hawaii? And that’s just the start.

Luckily for you, this guide is straight from a Hawaii local and has everything you need to know.

Best Time to Go to Hawaii

Everything you need to know about when to go to Hawaii

The best time to visit Hawaii is when it’s not too hot, not too rainy, and not too crowded. This ideal combination of factors usually occurs from April to May and from October to November .

Expert tip: These shoulder seasons can also help you find the best prices for Hawaii travel (March-May, September-November).

Best Islands to Visit in Hawaii

(based on your travel style)

If you are wondering how many islands there are in Hawaii: there are eight Hawaiian Islands, and you can visit six of them (Niihau and Kahoolawe are not open to the public.)

Out of the remaining six islands, it wouldn’t be fair to determine which are the best islands to visit in Hawaii, because each of them has its own distinct personality.

All of them are worth a visit!

That said, there are some islands that might be more suitable for you and your group, depending on your interests. Here are islands I’d recommend based on your travel style:

Oahu is home to many of the most famous Hawaii landmarks, including Diamond Head, the Pearl Harbor Memorial, and the North Shore. So if you would like to check these items off your bucket list, head to Oahu!

That said, what makes Oahu stand out from the rest of the Hawaiian Islands is its city. Thanks to the city of Honolulu, Oahu is the only island that boasts tall skyscrapers and thriving nightlife. If that’s something you’d like to experience, Oahu is the island for you!

Maui is known as the island for couples. It’s the most popular Hawaiian island for anniversaries, honeymoons, or couples’ getaways in the US . And this makes sense, because there are many romantic things to do on Maui, including watching the sunrise at Haleakala and taking a sunset cruise.

That said, if you’re not traveling as a couple, there are many other exciting things to do on Maui. You can drive the winding road to Hana, learn the history behind the iconic Iao Needle, and take a snorkeling tour of Molokini.

The Big Island has just about every type of natural wonder you can imagine – from green sand beaches to erupting volcanoes to lush rainforests to snowcapped mountains. Since the Big Island lives up to its name, it is usually split into two parts: Kona and Hilo.

• Kona is the side that caters more to tourists with its beautiful hotels and charming seafood restaurants. It’s also the sunnier side of the Big Island, so you’ll want to visit beautiful beaches like Kealakekua Bay and Kua Bay.
• Hilo , on the other hand, is the quieter, rainier side of the Big Island. This is a great destination if you love waterfalls! It’s also home to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

With its lush greenery and amazing trails, Kauai is a hiker’s paradise. The Kalalau Trail, Waipoo Falls Trail, and Sleeping Giant Trail are just a few of the most popular hikes. And when you want to take a break from all the hiking, you can visit some of the island’s charming, quiet towns, like Hanapepe and Hanalei.

If you’re looking for a tiny, off-the-grid island that still has the luxuries that come with a lavish vacation, you’ll want to head to the island of Lanai.

This 140-square-mile island is home to two elegant Four Seasons Resorts and a slew of nature-focused activities. You can off-road to the otherworldly landscape known as Keahiakawelo (Garden of the Gods), catch a glimpse of a rusty shipwreck at Shipwreck Beach, and snorkel with dolphins at Hulopoe Bay.

If you’d like to get off the grid and leave the luxuries of fancy resorts behind, Molokai might be the island for you. This is the perfect island to leave the stress of everyday life behind and just take it slow.

But if there’s one thing you have to do on Molokai, it’s experience the famous guided Kalaupapa mule ride. While riding an adorable trained mule, you’ll make your way up the highest sea cliffs in the world before descending into the historic town of Kalaupapa. 

How Much Does a Trip to Hawaii Cost?

One of the most important things to consider when planning Hawaii holidays is the cost. However, this can vary greatly depending on your Hawaii itinerary (and vacation budget).

If you plan ahead and budget closely, you can enjoy a week of Hawaii travel for less than $1,000 per person. That said, the average price of a weeklong trip to Hawaii is $1,900 per person. 

The Best Way to Get Around Hawaii

Unfortunately, transportation on most Hawaiian Islands is rather limited. Besides on Oahu, Ubers and Lyfts are few and far between, and the public bus system isn’t very extensive.

 As for Hawaii travel between islands, your options are limited as well. Depending on where you’re traveling to and from, you’ll either need to take a plane or a ferry.

Here are tips on how to get around Hawaii:

Traveling Around One Island in Hawaii:

Rent a Car: The best way to get around any Hawaiian Island is by renting a car. While it is pricey, you’ll have the freedom to go where you want, when you want. Sometimes, renting a car is the only viable transportation option. On all of the islands except for Oahu, you can’t really rely on Uber, Lyft, taxis, and buses. 

• Take the Bus: The Bus, Hawaii’s public bus system, is only a good transportation option on Oahu. While it might take a little longer, these buses can get you to pretty much all of the major sites on the island. Unfortunately, the public bus system is not nearly as extensive on any of the other islands. I would not recommend relying on it for your transportation needs.

Interisland Travel around Hawaii:

• By Plane: If you’re planning to do a little Hawaiian island hopping during your Hawaii vacation, you’ll probably need to take a plane. There are dozens of interisland flights every single day, and these flights go to all six visitable islands. You can pick from Hawaiian Airlines, Mokulele Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Princeville Air.
• By Ferry: There are only two ferries in Hawaii: one that runs between Maui and Lanai, and one that runs between Maui and Molokai (Update: now discontinued as of 2021). It is also important to note that these ferries are for people, not to transport cars.

Learn Bonus Hawaii Travel Tips From A Local

1. limit the number of islands you visit.

When planning to travel to Hawaii, many visitors try to stop at as many islands as possible. I don’t recommend doing this. Rather than quickly hopping from one island to the next, I recommend spending 5-7 days on each island.

If you are staying in the islands for ten days or more, then you can consider visiting multiple islands during your trip.

2. Explore Outside of Waikiki

One of the biggest mistakes that visitors to Hawaii make is spending all of their time in Waikiki on Oahu. Waikiki is a tourist hub and is not an accurate representation of the beauty, nature, and culture of Hawaii. As a matter of fact, most locals avoid Waikiki as much as possible.

If you’re looking for an Oahu alternative, consider staying on the North Shore or in Ko Olina. Plus, there are always the other five islands for you to visit!

3. Don’t Confuse “Hawaiian” and “Local”

While people from Florida, for example, can call themselves Floridian, people from Hawaii will never call themselves Hawaiian.

This is a rather complex issue, but, to put it simply, “Hawaiian” is a culture, language, and ethnic group. Just like you can’t claim to be a different ethnicity, people who are not native Hawaiian cannot label themselves “Hawaiian.”

Instead, people who live in Hawaii often use the term “local” or “Hawaii local” to refer to themselves.

4. Learn About Hawaiian Culture

When researching Hawaii travel, you’ll likely find long lists of things to do that revolve around nature, U.S. history, and even food. But the beauty of Hawaiian culture is often overlooked, and that’s a shame.

During your time in the Hawaiian Islands, make time to learn about and experience Hawaiian culture. Depending on what island you’re on, you can find museums, festivals, historic walks, and historic sites that celebrate the beautiful Hawaiian culture.

5. Respect Nature

This idea of respecting nature in Hawaii has a lot of different layers. First, there are the simple acts, like picking up your trash and wearing reef-safe sunscreen. But then there are the more complex layers to respecting nature that people rarely think about when bringing up Hawaii travel.

First, there’s being aware of the power of the ocean. With large waves and strong currents, the ocean can be a dangerous place. Instead of overestimating your abilities and disregarding the power of the ocean, remember to respect the ocean and its power.

By learning some of the best practices for swimming in the open ocean, you’ll simultaneously respect nature and stay safe.

Then, there are the animals. Hawaii has many endangered animals, both in the ocean and on land. Remember to give them space and respect them!

Don’t try to feed them, pet them, or ride them. Depending on the animal, this may actually be illegal.

And last but not least, there’s the land. Your most in-depth encounters with the land in Hawaii will likely take place while hiking.

Be sure to research the trails in advance, avoid hiking on or after rainy days, and refrain from breaking the branches off nearby plants.

Want to have the best time on your Hawaii adventure? These Hawaii travel tips from a local can help you maximize your time there, have a memorable experience, and respect the people and land you are visiting. Add them to your list of what NOT to do in Hawaii .

What’s on your Hawaii travel bucket list?

Hawaii is one of the most amazing places in the world, thanks to the beautiful natural landscapes, fantastic fusion food, and interesting culture. It’s definitely worth a visit (or more than one!).

I hope that this Hawaii travel guide helps you plan your next trip to the islands!

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How to Plan a Trip to Hawaii: Everything You Need to Know

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COVID Travel Restrictions on Hawaii: At the time of writing, there are no additional steps on how to plan a trip to Hawaii that you need to familiarize yourself with. However, I suggest visiting Hawaii’s Covid-19 website and the Safe Travels website for the latest updates. 

Are you thinking of visiting Hawaii for the first time, and in search of some Hawaii travel tips? 

You’ve definitely come to the right place. I grew up on the island of Oahu and have visited Maui, Kaua’i, the Big Island, and Lana’i multiple times!

And, after leaving Hawaii to move to California for college, and even after traveling to see some of the world’s most famous beach destinations like Tulum and Bali , I can still say without any bias: Hawaii really is something special. 

When you think of Hawaii, you might picture surfers, dolphins, warm water, pineapples, and hula dancers. And Hawaii is all of those things, but it is so much more than a paradise or a vacation destination. Hawaii has incredibly complex history, beautiful culture, storied residents, and plants and animals that can’t be found anywhere else in the world.

To think of Hawaii as just a ‘paradise,’ while there’s no denying its beauty, is to do it a disservice. Because there’s so much more to know beyond the beaches and pineapples and grass skirts you see on postcards. 

But don’t worry, let me break it down for you. From Hawaii’s history, to where to go, and so much more, read on for everything you need to know about how to plan a trip to Hawaii!

First Of All, Where is Hawaii?

We can’t kick off a guide about how to plan a trip to Hawaii without talking about where Hawaii is! Its remoteness is part of what makes these islands so unique, after all.

Hawaii is located about 2,100 miles southwest of the United States’ west coast. It’s actually nearly smack in the middle of California and Japan in terms of distance. 2,390 miles from California and 3,850 miles from Japan!

Out in the Pacific Ocean, thousands of miles from land in either direction, the Hawaiian Islands are actually the most remote island chain in the entire world!

A Quick Hawaii Geography Lesson

The Hawaiian island archipelago includes eight major islands, as well as several minor islands, atolls, and islets. Did you know – the state of Hawaii actually counts 137 islands in the Hawaiian island chain! 

Volcanic activity formed the Hawaiian islands. In fact, the main Hawaiian islands are actually the exposed peaks of a massive underwater mountain range (the Hawaiian-Emperor Seamount Chain) that’s still evolving to this day. While the oldest and northwesternmost island, Kure Atoll, is around 28 million years old, the newest and southwesternmost island, the Big Island, is estimated to only be 400,000 years old. Just a little baby by comparison! 

While there are many more Hawaiian islands than most people realize, the travel advice you’ll need to know pertains to the main Hawaiian island chain: The Big Island, Maui, Moloka’i, Kaho’olawe, Lana’i, Oahu, Kaua’i, and Ni’ihau. 

Which Hawaiian Island Should I Visit?

For most people wondering how to plan a trip to Hawaii, this is usually the first question you’ll find yourself asking.

Of Hawaii’s eight major islands, you are able to visit six – Oahu, Maui, the Big Island, Kaua’i, Lana’i, and Moloka’i. When it comes to how to plan a trip to Hawaii, choosing which island to visit is often the hardest part for first-time visitors. Each island has incredibly unique characteristics and things to see!

Below, you’ll find a quick overview of each (including the two islands you can’t visit). These island highlights might help you decide which Hawaiian island to visit depending on the kind of experience you’re after.

Oahu – where I’m from! – is nicknamed “The Gathering Place.” Oahu is Hawaii’s most populated, most famous, and most visited island.

Though not the biggest island, Oahu is considered the ‘main’ island. The Kingdom of Hawaii was governed from Oahu after being united by King Kamehameha in the 1800s. Afterwards, Honolulu became the official capital city in 1959, when Hawaii became part of the US.

Whenever someone asks me how to plan a trip to Hawaii, I always recommend Oahu for a first visit!

Here are some things to know about visiting Oahu:  

• Best Known For: Hawaii’s capital city of Honolulu, the hotel district of Waikiki, world-famous surfing, Pearl Harbor, and Iolani Palace.
• Why Visit? Oahu is a great choice for first-time visitors to Hawaii because it offers a little bit of everything. From great beaches and hiking, to historical sites and cultural activities, to a culinary and bar scene that would get any foodie excited, Oahu really does hit the nail on the head when it comes to having a wide variety of things to do any kind of traveler. 
• Good to Know: Oahu is Hawaii’s most populated island, with about 75% of the entire state population. It also receives around 50% of all of Hawaii’s visitors. You can expect more traffic and more crowds here, but if that doesn’t bother you, Oahu is a wonderful island to visit! Its population size also makes Oahu the most multiracial island in Hawaii, and one of the most multicultural communities in the world.

Maui is known as “The Valley Isle.” It has a wide valley region that sits less than 200 feet above sea level, flanked by tall mountainous regions on either side. It is the second-largest Hawaiian island with a population of just under 200,000, and was briefly home to the capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom before the location moved to Honolulu, Oahu. 

Throughout my childhood, Maui was my favorite island to visit when island-hopping with my family! 

Here are some things to know about visiting Maui:

• Best Known For : Home to Haleakala National Park and the infamous Road to Hana road trip.
• Why Visit? Maui is another great recommendation for Hawaii first-timers, along with Oahu, because of its balance between developed and natural areas. You won’t need to look far for a good place to eat, and there’s an abundance of hotels throughout the island. Plus, because of the island’s size and smaller population, you can easily spread out and enjoy the island away from the crowds whether you’re looking for an active or relaxed vacation.
• Good to Know : Most people will recommend the Road to Hana – the 52-mile windy, narrow drive from Kahului to Hana town – as the thing to do on Maui . But it’s not one for the faint of heart! The Hana Highway has 620 curves and 59 bridges, making it one of the country’s most dangerous road trips. If you do decide to drive the Road to Hana, definitely exercise tons of caution and be extra respectful to local residents, businesses, and nature. Or, consider taking a guided tour ( like this one ) as a way of helping reduce traffic congestion!

Hawai’i (The Big Island)

The Big Island is actually named Hawai’i, but most people refer to it as the Big Island because it is, well, pretty dang big! In total, it would take you between 6 and 9 hours to drive around the entire island without stopping.

I love the Big Island because its geology is incredibly unique. From dried-up lava fields to endless waterfalls, the island’s scenic variety is breathtaking. 

Here are some things to know about visiting Hawai’i:

• Best Known For : Home to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a wide range of colorful sand, and the occasional snowfall on Mauna Kea.
• Why Visit ? The Big Island will no doubt give you the biggest range of Hawaii’s varied landscapes, from beautiful beaches to snowy summits. There are many unique things the Big Island has to offer that simply can’t be found on any of the other islands, with the biggest draw being volcanic activity-related attractions like lava tubes, black sand beaches, and the occasional fresh lava flow from Kilauea eruptions. However, unless you go to the Big Island wanting to only see the volcanoes, I recommend dedicating at least a week to a week and a half to your visit to get a full spectrum of all this island has to offer.
• Good to Know : Though tempting, it is believed to be major bad luck to take any sand or lava rocks from any Hawaiian island but especially this one (because as the legend goes, Hawaii’s goddess of fire Pele, is said to live on this island). Whether or not you believe it, know that the national parks in Hawaii receive countless packages each month from all over the world filled with rocks, sand, and apology letters from past visitors who’ve dealt with crazy bad luck after taking from the island. You’ve been warned!

Kaua’i

Kaua’i – “The Garden Isle” – is one of the most exquisitely beautiful of the Hawaiian islands, thanks to its lush greenery and endless waterfalls. Each time I visit Kaua’i, I am in awe that a place with scenery like this exists.

Here are some things to know about visiting Kaua’i:

• Best Known For : The iconic NaPali coast, Waimea Canyon (Hawaii’s own version of the Grand Canyon), and mesmerizing waterfalls.
• Why Visit ? A much slower-paced, less-crowded island, Kaua’i is a great island for outdoor lovers and romantic getaways. While you won’t find as much by comparison in terms of development (the entire island is home to just around 75,000 people), you will find endless emerald green mountains, amazing sunsets, and mighty waterfalls. 
• Good to Know: Kaua’i is a fairly small island, though massive in terms of things to do and see. When you rent a car on the island, know that despite the island’s small size, driving from place to place will still take a decent amount of time. Why? There is only one main highway – Kuhio Highway – and it only has one lane in each direction, with a top speed limit of no more than 50 mph. It doesn’t go all the way around the island either, thanks to the NaPali coast, so to get from one end to the other will take you at least two hours, give or take. Definitely check estimated drive times when planning your Kaua’i itinerary!

Moloka’i

Moloka’i is known as “The Friendly Isle” and also the “most Hawaiian” island due to its high native Hawaiian population. Right in the center of the main Hawaiian island chain, Moloka’i sits just eight miles or a 25-minute flight from Maui.

There are only 8,000 residents, and the island receives the fewest annual visitors of the visitable Hawaiian islands. Though, for travelers eager to get really off the beaten path and see a more rural version of Hawaii that remains relatively unchanged over the decades, Moloka’i might be for you.

Here are some things to know about visiting Moloka’i:

• Best Known For: More rural, “unspoilt” Hawaii, the highest sea cliffs in the world, beautiful coral reefs, and the site of the historic leprosy colony, Kalaupapa.
• Why Visit? For a much, much slower island vacation, a better chance of getting outdoor adventures all to yourself, and a more unchanged view into the lifestyle of Hawaii, Moloka’i is a fascinating visit. Best for more intrepid explorers and those who can appreciate a place even without ample vacation amenities, Moloka’i has a lot to offer for those willing to look!
• Good to Know: Because Moloka’i is one of the least visited islands in Hawaii, you won’t be able to fly directly into the island from out of state. You’ll need to first travel to Oahu or Maui and take a quick inter-island flight to get to Moloka’i’s airport. Once here, you’ll notice other tourism infrastructure is limited, which can be an adventure in itself. There is only one true hotel (most other visitors rent homes or go camping), businesses are closed on Sundays, and there are no traffic lights on the entire island. 

Lana’i

Known as “The Pineapple Isle” or “The Embracing Isle,” Lana’i is one of those unique examples of an island that is part of the state of Hawaii, but also privately owned by a third party (Ni’ihau, below, is another example). However, unlike Ni’ihau or even Moloka’i, Lana’i is definitely much more set up for tourism in the traditional sense. 

Here are some things to know about visiting Lana’i:

• Best Known For: Relaxation, seclusion, and a small but incredibly luxurious selection of accommodations including the Four Seasons Sensei Lana’i , and the Hotel Lana’i .
• Why Visit? Lana’i was once home to a plantation that produced 75% of the world’s pineapples (giving the island its nickname). Today, a visit to Lana’i is often associated with “quiet luxury,” meaning you may pay a bit of a premium to stay here (hotel rooms start at around $400/night), but in exchange you are rewarded with no crowds, no traffic, and ultimate seclusion. This is the island to go to if you’re looking for a more luxe getaway and some pampering. 
• Good to Know: Want to visit Lana’i without staying overnight? You can easily take a ferry or a guided catamaran tour from Lahaina, Maui! 

Ni’ihau

One of two islands in Hawaii that technically can’t be visited, Ni’ihau is known as “The Forbidden Isle.” Privately owned, the island is home to an estimated 170-ish residents who live traditional Hawaiian lifestyles and continue to use Hawaiian as their primary language. The island got its nickname after a polio epidemic in Hawaii in the mid-1900s, where you needed to have a doctor’s note and complete a two-week quarantine in order to visit. 

It’s not considered a visitable island in the traditional sense, but…

There are actually technically three ways to visit Ni’ihau (or at least get pretty close):

• Getting invited by a Ni’ihau resident or by the island’s owners, the Robinsons
• Taking a Ni’ihau Helicopters or Ni’ihau Safaris tour 
• Visiting the island offshore, by boat, for some spectacular snorkeling or diving (I recommend looking into the Napali Coast and Ni’ihau boat tour from Holo Holo Charters, which is the tour I did! Check availability on TripAdvisor or directly on Holo Holo Charters website ).

Kaho’olawe

With a strange nickname of “The Target Isle,” Kaho’olawe has a fascinating and bizarre history. During WWII, the island was a training ground and bombing target for the US military. There was never a huge Hawaiian population on Kaho’olawe prior to WWII, but following its usage by the military, Kaho’olawe today remains pretty much deserted and uninhabitable, due to its small size and lack of fresh water. 

The only way to visit this island is by volunteering through the Kaho’olawe Island Reserve Commission , which offers work trips from Maui.

How Many Days Should I Spend in Hawaii?

Not yet decided on how many days to spend in Hawaii? Unless you plan to spend your whole trip at your hotel (which I don’t recommend!), I always suggest a minimum of 4 to 5 days for any island. Hawaii isn’t really an easy long weekend getaway because of the long 5+ hour flight from the US, so if you’re planning a trip to Hawaii, plan to dedicate at least 4 to 5 full days to your vacation. 

That said, I think 6 – 8 days is really the sweet spot to not only explore, but also to have extra time to take it easy and relax.

If you want to visit more than one island in Hawaii, I still suggest dedicating 4 to 5 days per island. So, for a two-island Hawaii vacation, you’ll probably want to plan for at least 9 or 10 days total. 

Can I Visit Multiple Hawaiian Islands Easily?

You might be surprised by this: island-hopping in Hawaii actually isn’t that easy!

But is it possible? Yep, but it’ll take some extra planning.

Unless you’re taking a multi-island cruise, you’re going to need to book an inter-island flight to get from one island to the next. And, depending on the islands you choose, you may need to connect on Oahu or Maui. 

That means you’ll have to deal with all the same steps of air travel – the airport, TSA, checking bags, renting / returning cars – even for a short 20 to 45 minute flight. In total, that means at least three or four hours to get from one island to the next. 

Because of this, it’s usually easiest to stick with no more than one or two islands on your Hawaii trip , unless you’re staying in the state for two weeks or more.

Some islands will be easier to plan island-hopping trips from. For instance, from Oahu you can easily fly directly to all visitable islands. From Maui, you’ll also have ample direct flights and the option of taking a day trip to Lana’i by ferry or catamaran tour .

If you are planning to visit multiple islands, Hawaiian Airlines or Mokulele Airlines will most likely be your go-to carriers, as they cater specifically to inter-island service and often have the cheapest fares. Compare fares and availability for inter-island flights on Kayak to see whether a multi-island trip is right for you.

How Much Should I Budget for a Trip to Hawaii?

When you start researching how to plan a trip to Hawaii, you’ll realize Hawaii is one of the more expensive US vacations you could take. This is due to the islands’ remoteness, high import costs, and designation as a tourism destination. 

I’d say a realistic mid-range budget per person is around $200-$325 per day : 

• $100/day on accommodation*
• $25-50/day on a rental car
• $50-$75/day on food
• $25-50/day on activities

*This is based on a $200/night hotel split between two people 

Factoring that in with a round-trip flight from the mainland, you’re looking at around $2,000 – $3,000 per person for a 7-day trip. 

Of course, this can easily go up if you book nicer, more luxurious accommodations, reserve private tours, dine at higher-tier restaurants, and indulge in pampering (spas, massages, etc). 

But, you can visit Hawaii on a budget as well if you hack your itinerary a bit!

How To Plan a Trip to Hawaii on a Budget:

• Stay at more budget-friendly accommodations ( like this affordable boutique hotel in Waikiki )
• Consider staying in an affordable Oahu Airbnb
• Go camping ( or glamping in Maui )
• Travel off-season, when the crowds are fewer and the prices start to drop
• Support local businesses and shop at Hawaii farmers markets
• Take public transportation (TheBus on Oahu is incredibly reliable)
• Bring a reusable water bottle 
• Book activities in advance to cinch better deals
• Get a Go Oahu Pass to save money on certain sights and attractions
• Focus on free things to do, like beaches, hiking, and window shopping

When Is the Best Time to Visit Hawaii?

Because of Hawaii’s geographic location, the islands are nice and warm all year long. There really isn’t a bad time to visit Hawaii! 

However, there are some seasonal differences that might help you decide how to plan a trip to Hawaii based on exactly what you’re looking for out of your visit.

How to Plan a Trip to Hawaii: Best Times to Visit

• Peak Season: Peak season for Hawaii travel is always summer (May – August) and winter (December – March). These months may be pricier and a bit more crowded depending on which island you plan to visit. 
• Low Season: Low season for Hawaii travel typically consists of all the months that aren’t peak! So, September – December, and March – May are when you may find slightly cheaper prices and smaller crowds (though on Oahu, it’ll be less noticeable because you’ll find solid tourism pretty much year-round). These are also the months that local students are back in school or university, which also helps reduce crowding at popular beaches and hikes. 
• Humpback Whale Watching Season: Humpback whales migrate to warmer waters off the coast of Hawaii from October to May, with peak viewing opportunities usually from December to February. The verdict’s out on which Hawaiian island is best for whale watching though. Maui, Moloka’i, Lana’i, Oahu, Kaua’i, and the Big Island all offer several whale-watching opportunities both on land and by boat. 
• Best Season for Surfing: Expert surfers (and people who want to watch expert surfers!) will enjoy Hawaii the most in the winter, from mid-November to early February. Oahu’s North Shore is the famous Hawaii surf destination, where waves can sometimes climb up to 30-50 feet in peak surf season. Generally speaking though, you can surf all year long in Hawaii and beaches like Waikiki are great for beginners. For seasoned surfers, know that the south shore has bigger swells in the summer than the north shore, and vice-versa. 
• Wet Season: Wet season is generally November to March. You’ll get more rain, but the tradeoff is more ‘full’ waterfalls.
• Dry Season: Dry season is April to October, but keep in mind Hawaii is a tropical state so rainfall can happen year-round. 
• Holidays: Holidays and long weekends will always see a bit of a price jump as these are popular times to make the 5+ hour flight out to Hawaii. If you plan on visiting Hawaii for a major holiday or long weekend holiday (like Memorial Day and Labor Day), plan several months ahead to get in front of price spikes! 
• Major Events: Some major Hawaii events to plan for, or around, include the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing, The Eddie, the Moloka’i Hoe, the Merrie Monarch Festival, the Waikiki Spam Jam, Aloha Festival, Made in Hawaii, and the Honolulu Marathon. 

Languages Spoken in Hawaii

Hawaii is the only state with two official languages: English and Hawaiian. As Hawaii is a US state, English is the major language you’ll use to chat, get around, and read on street signs. 

However, the English you hear in Hawaii might not always be the English you’re used to. You may also hear Pidgin, a sort of English creole formed over the past two centuries as immigrants and plantation workers came together in Hawaii and developed a unique way of communicating with one another. Today, Pidgin is a common English-based variation of communication you’ll hear, and possibly even pick up, when visiting. 

As Hawaii is incredibly multicultural, more than 25% of households also speak a language other than English at home. Philippine languages like Ilocano and Tagalog are the most common languages, as around 23% of the state is Filipino or part-Filipino. 

Sadly, the Hawaiian language nearly died when Hawaii became a part of the United States, as locals were made to learn to read, write, and speak in English. But today you can see a slow but steady revival of the language thanks to Hawaiian immersion schools throughout the islands. Lots of day-to-day sayings pull from the Hawaiian language (like giving directions using the “mauka” or “makai” sides of the island, or saying “pau hana” to refer to the end of the work day and time for happy hour), too. Despite this, today, there are only around 1,000 native Hawaiian speakers and around 8,000 with Hawaiian fluency. 

Because of the near-extinction of the Hawaiian language, it is very respectful and appreciated to attempt to use and pronounce Hawaiian words properly when they’re taught to you during your visit!

Basic Words, Phrases, and Gestures for Your Trip to Hawaii:

• Aloha: Hello, goodbye
• Mahalo: Thank you
• E Komo Mai: Welcome
• A hui hou: Until we meet again
• Mauka: The mountain side of the road (when giving directions)
• Makai: The ocean side of the road (when giving directions)
• Howzit: Pidgin for “how’s it?” or “how’s it going?”
• ‘Ono: Delicious
• Shoots: Pidgin for “okay” or “sounds good”
• Da Kine: Pidgin for “the one” or “that thing,” and can be positive or negative in context
• Kama’aina: Literally means ‘child of the land,’ and in modern-day context means a local resident
• Haole: A non-native Hawaiian or caucasian
• ‘Aina: Land
• Malama: To care for or protect
• Shaka: A hand gesture that’s often used as a greeting or acknowledgment
• Pupu: An appetizer or small plate
• Pau Hana: Literally means “done with work” or “after work” and is often used to describe after-work fun time, or happy hour

How to Get Around in Hawaii

Renting a car in Hawaii is going to be the easiest way to get around when visiting any island. Oahu does have a great public bus system, but outside of Oahu and in general, renting a car will offer you the most freedom, flexibility, and spontaneity for your Hawaii vacation. 

Pretty much any car will do, but keep in mind that certain places and certain activities might require a 4WD. 

I typically visit Kayak first to compare rental car rates on the islands whenever I’m traveling around. Turo and Hui (locally owned) are also great alternatives for seeking out car rentals directly from Hawaii residents. 

On the flip side, if you’re in search of Hawaii RVs, camper vans, and the occasional rooftop tent (like the one I rented in the top left photo!), check out RVshare . This is a fun alternative if you plan on doing any national park or beach camping during your Hawaii trip!

How to Get Around in Hawaii without a Car:

• By Bus: The bus system, called TheBus , on Oahu is a generally reliable and inexpensive way to explore the island. On Maui, you’ll have the Maui Bus . On Kauai, you can use the Kauai Bus . And last but not least, on the Big Island, you’ll be able to take the Hele-On Bus . There is no public bus system on Moloka’i or Lana’i at the time of writing this blog post. 
• By Trolley: If you’re staying in Waikiki, the hop-on, hop-off Waikiki Trolley is a reliable way to get around Waikiki, Honolulu, and East Oahu.
• By Rideshare: You should have access to Uber and Lyft on Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island. Keep in mind that Oahu will have the highest volume of drivers of any island, but no matter which island you visit, remote destinations away from major cities (like beaches and hiking trails) may mean you won’t be able to find any drivers. An alternative, locally owned rideshare app called Holoholo has also recently become available and offers you the same services as Uber and Lyft if you’re looking to support local. 
• By Bike: I would generally advise against using bikes as your main method of transportation as Hawaii roads are pretty narrow, and city centers are not as bike friendly as they could be. However, to get from a quick point A to point B, you can check out Biki on Oahu.

Food, Drinks, and Tipping in Hawaii

Whether you’re planning on eating at some of Hawaii’s most high-end restaurants or looking for the best food truck or cheap plate lunch, there really is a little bit of everything no matter your taste or price range. 

On Oahu and Maui, you’ll generally find the widest variety of cuisines and highest number of restaurants.

On smaller or less crowded islands, like the Big Island and Kaua’i, you’ll have a bit less volume in terms of restaurants, but you’ll still find a solid offering of local joints, seafood, Hawaiian staples, and food trucks (bonus: Kaua’i is said to be a great choice for vegetarian and plant-based eaters).

Lana’i is known for its more expensive resort-side food offerings.

And Moloka’i, on the flip side, is known for its small, ultra-local “hole in the wall” establishments. 

If you’re into beer, wine, and / or cocktails:

• Oahu has the biggest bar, brewery, and craft cocktail scene of any island 
• Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island are great for beer drinkers, as you’ll find both smaller local breweries and larger institutions like Kona Brewing , Maui Brewing Company , and Ola Brew 
• Kaua’i doesn’t have as big of a bar scene, but you can find delicious drinks at places like Kaua’i Beer Company , Beach House , the Koloa Rum Tasting Room , and Bar Acuda
• The southernmost winery in the entire country, Volcano Winery , is located on the Big Island!

How Much Should You Tip?

Regardless of the island you visit, Hawaii – just like the rest of the United States – has a tipping economy, and it’s a bit on the ‘higher’ end. 15% for good service, and 18-22% for great service, is a good rule of thumb. 

Hawaii History Fast Facts (Know Before You Go)

Though not required, it is widely recommended that you familiarize yourself with Hawaii’s history so you can more fully understand and appreciate everything these islands had to endure, in order to become the Hawaii people are able to visit today. 

• The islands were discovered by Polynesian voyagers more than 1,500 years ago, who found Hawaii using just the stars to guide them.
• King Kamehameha went into battle to unite the Hawaiian islands under a Kingdom of Hawaii. Before this, the islands were actually individually governed leading to lingering nuances in people, language, and culture.
• The sugar and pineapple plantation industries brought various cultures to the Hawaiian islands, and also caught the attention of western businesses and investment.
• King Kamehameha proposed the Great Mahele and the Kuleana Act in the 1800s in an effort to redistribute the land. Unfortunately, as most Hawaiians weren’t familiar with the need to make land claims, this act inadvertently separated most Hawaiians from obtaining the titles to the lands they lived and worked on. Because of Hawaii’s complex and largely painful history with the concept of land ownership, the topic of vacation homes and moving to Hawaii as an outsider is a bit sensitive to many locals, especially those of Hawaiian descent. 
• The Hawaiian monarchy was overthrown in 1893. But, you can still visit landmarks and historical residences of Hawaiian royalty today.
• Hawaii was annexed by the US in 1898, and Hawaii later became the 50th US state in 1959.

Despite this wild history, people on Hawaii (both native and non native) generally love sharing these islands and their traditions with visitors who are respectful. Hawaii has so much more to offer than pretty beaches, so definitely take the time to learn about it  beforehand, and immerse yourself in some cultural and historical activities while you’re visiting! 

One book I found incredibly eye-opening, even as a former Hawaii resident, is Detours: A Decolonial Guide to Hawaii . I highly recommend giving this a read if you have the time (find it here on Amazon).

Hawaii Culture and Etiquette for First-Time Visitors

Because of Hawaii’s complex history, multicultural community, delicate ecosystems, etc etc etc, there are a lot of nuances to culture and etiquette for Hawaii travel.

While other destinations might easily forgive most travel faux-pas, I will say that in my observation of traveling all over the world, to be an irresponsible visitor in Hawaii (intentionally or not) is often taken much more seriously.

Why? I think it’s because Hawaii residents feel a deeply seeded unsettlement towards outsiders coming and taking from the islands, because historically that’s been a theme for centuries. But also, I think it’s because Hawaii is such a popular destination – one of the most popular in the world. So, not only does that come with growing pains, but the expectation is that you should already know some Hawaii travel tips before you come, because there’s bound to be tons of guides (like this one!) helping you out. 

Again, that’s just my observation, but as they say, “to receive aloha, you must give aloha.”

So, come prepared to show respect, be open-minded, and have fun! 

Everyone’s opinions of tourism in Hawaii will vary, but be sure to familiarize yourself with these quick tips before you go so you’re ahead of the game.

Quick Tips for Being a Respectful Hawaii Visitor

• Hawaiian versus Hawaii Resident: Unlike being a Californian, Utahn, Michigander, New Yorker, and so on, people in Hawaii are not by default referred to as Hawaiian. That label is reserved for those with Hawaiian blood. To be safe, the term “local” or “Hawaii resident” is more fitting for describing those that call Hawaii home. 
• Hawaii Wildlife: I mentioned this already but it’s worth repeating! Please do not be that tourist that disrupts wildlife (especially endangered wildlife) for the ‘Gram unless you want a fast-pass to local disapproval and, if caught, a fine or jail time. 
• Malama ‘Aina : The concept of malama ‘aina means to to care for and nurture the land so it can give back to us and to our future generations. There a lot of layers to this, but as a visitor the best way to internalize this concept is to understand that the Hawaiian islands need protecting and it’s our shared responsibility (also known as kuleana ) to do so.
• Sacred Places : Generations of Hawaiians have called these islands home, and because of this, there are lots of historic places, temples ( heiau ), ancient battle grounds, and royal burial sites throughout the islands. No matter where you go, keeping a mindset of malama ‘aina will prevent you from accidentally showing disrespect.
• Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Plan to only use reef-safe sunscreen in Hawaii. If you’re unsure, buy it once you arrive. I personally use Goop Unseen Sunscreen and Sun Bum Original , but there are tons of reef-safe sunscreens on the market for you to choose from!
• Honking: Don’t do it! Well, don’t do it a lot . When driving in Hawaii, it’s actually best to avoid using your horn unless you’re about to get hit or are in an emergency. Driving is generally less “every-man-for-themselves” here than in the rest of the US. So, use your horn sparingly, allow people to merge, and throw up a shaka if someone does you a solid while you’re on the road. 
• When to Book Ahead of Time: More touristy areas (like Waikiki, Poipu, Lahaina, Kihei, and Kona), and more popular activities like luaus, will generally require advance booking. Do a little research ahead of time and if there’s a place or activity you’re dying to try, save yourself the stress and reserve it before you arrive. 

Protecting Hawaii’s Fragile Ecosystems

Hawaii is home to some of the most unique plants and animals due to its unique climate and total isolation. Many of these species are endemic and can’t be found anywhere else in the world! 

Unfortunately, because of this, Hawaii is the #1 state in terms of endangered species. 

When it comes to what to know before visiting Hawaii, this is an important though often overlooked fact. Because Hawaii has so many endangered and protected species, it’s up to both locals and visitors alike to take some extra precautions: 

• Wear reef-safe sunscreen ONLY when visiting Hawaii. While you can technically bring whatever sunscreen you want to the islands, stores in Hawaii are required to only carry reef-safe. So, be like the locals! 
• It’s illegal to feed marine mammals.
• By law, you need to keep a respectful distance from endangered animals, some of the most common being Hawaiian Monk Seals, Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, Spinner Dolphins, Humpback Whales, and Nene Geese. 
• Touching Hawaii’s wildlife, whether endangered or not, is majorly frowned upon in Hawaii due to the general understanding that Hawaii is an endangered species capital.
• If you like to hike, brush off your hiking boots before you get to Hawaii, and after every Hawaii hike, to help prevent the spread of invasive species.
• Stay on marked trails whenever possible.

And of course, when visiting Hawaii, don’t forget to look around and really take it all in!

You’re bound to see plants and wildlife you’ll never see anywhere else in the world, no matter which island you visit. This is honestly one of the top things that makes this island chain so special.

How to Plan a Trip to Hawaii: Your Vacation Itinerary (AKA the fun part!)

Now that you know pretty much everything you need to know about how to plan a trip to Hawaii, it’s onto the fun stuff! Namely, choosing an island to visit and planning your Hawaii itinerary.

Check out my suggested island itineraries and things to do on Oahu, Maui, Kaua’i, and the Big Island next :

• The Ultimate 5-Day Oahu Itinerary
• The 20+ Very Best Things to Do on Oahu
• An Adventure-Packed 5-Day Maui Itinerary
• The 20+ Very Best Things to Do on Maui
• A 5 Day Kaua’i Itinerary for Outdoor Lovers
• The 20+ Very Best Things to Do on Kaua’i
• The Ultimate Full-Circle 5 Day Big Island Itinerary
• The 20+ Very Best Things to Do on the Big Island

Or, to see all of my Hawaii guides in one place, just click here!

I hope these Hawaii travel planning tips help you feel more confident about how to plan a trip to Hawaii! Where in Hawaii are you thinking of traveling to? What are you most excited to do, or see? Tell me below! 

Book Activities In Hawaii Here:

Read this next:.

• 20+ Of the Very Best Things to Do in Oahu
• The Ultimate Local Guide to North Shore Oahu (plus 20-Page Self-Drive + Bus Guide!)
• Where to Stay in Waikiki: The Laylow
• Where to Stay in Waikiki: The Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club
• 20+ Of the Very Best Things to Do in Maui
• My Review of Camp Olowalu: Glamping in Maui
• The Ultimate 10-Day Puerto Rico Road Trip Itinerary

Pin For Later:

Hey there! I’m Rachel, a travel writer and a full-time advertising / marketing expert. In 2019, I traveled more than 25 times while working 9 to 5, and since then I’ve committed myself to living a more adventurous life, even if it means bringing my laptop along for the ride. Are you hungry to travel more, but overwhelmed with how to juggle work and play? You’ve come to the right place!

Recent Adventures:

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• Updated on: March 31, 2023

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• Pingback: 11 Best Oahu Hikes (2022): How to See the Best of the Island - Explore Now Or Never

Rachel, I will be visiting Hawaii really soon and I love love the way you’ve explained the islands and the way that you lay out the information. Thank you for being so through and the effort to explain everything so perfectly, and you have the most lovely pictures.

So happy to hear you found this post helpful. Hope you had a wonderful trip!

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Home » Travel Tips

The Top 10 Travel Blogs: Hawaii

If you set out to discover the Hawaiian Islands from square one, you’d have your work cut out. You could spend years exploring the islands’ well-trod trails and hidden valleys and only scratch the surface of what awaits on this stunning archipelago. Luckily, you won’t have to rely on trial and error to find the best trails, waterfalls, or experiences. With countless Hawaii travel blogs at your fingertips, you can chart your perfect trip to Hawaii from the comfort of your home. 

So, from learning fun facts to spout during your trip to unveiling the tastiest treats to snack on after a day of adventure, here are the ultimate travel blogs for planning your ideal Hawaii getaway.

Table of Contents

1. next vacay.

• 2. Go to Hawaii

3. Best of Oahu

4. pride of maui, 5. love big island, 6. kauai travel blog, 7. onolicious hawaii, 8. aloha with love, 9. hawaii family life, 10. hawaii travel spot, next vacay will take you from the travel blogs to traveling, the best general hawaii travel blogs.

Want to know how to plan a trip to Hawaii? How about how much will a trip cost you? Or do you want to know if Hawaii is even where you want to spend your days of PTO? To answer those questions and more, like which island holds your picture-perfect vacation, turn your sights to these general Hawaii travel blogs that give you a bird’s eye view of traveling the islands’ beaches, mountains, and valleys. 

Welcome to your first stop for all things Hawaii. Next Vacay is the perfect place for travelers just dipping their toes into Hawaii’s warm waters. From deciding if Hawaii is your destination to choosing an island and your activities, Next Vacay’s travel blog answers some of your most burning questions. 

Planning any trip can be daunting, and Hawaii is no different. Expenses and the fear of missing out on incredible experiences can make a trip to the Hawaiian Islands unnecessarily stressful. However, Next Vacay makes it feel within reach. Get useful cost breakdowns , helpful Hawaii travel tips, and stunning reminders for why you should be excited to visit Hawaii. Beautiful beaches only scratch the surface of what the Aloha State has to offer. Next Vacay is your go-to resource for discovering the best islands to visit for your ideal vacay .

If you want to know how much a trip to Hawaii will cost your family, how many national parks are on the islands, or even the best airlines to fly to Hawaii— Hawaiian Airlines isn’t the only option —Next Vacay has you covered. 

Get Secret Flight Deals

2. Go Hawaii

A mecca of information on all things Hawaii, Go Hawaii is a gateway into exploring the Hawaiian Islands. The site covers vibrant festivals and unique cultural aspects but also delves into specifics. You’ll find guides to each major Hawaiian Island, from the most iconic features to general activities and Hawaii travel tips.

Go Hawaii also tries to give you a better understanding of Hawaii by capturing your senses. Fun videos convey the adventure of the islands, while more contemplative videos capture magnetic elements of Hawaiian culture, like the native chants and dances passed down through generations. The site even offers VR experiences to get you as close to discovering Hawaii as possible without leaving your couch.

And for those ready for the real thing, you can even find help planning your vacation. The site provides a handy directory covering accommodations, activities, restaurants, etc. With several languages offered, Go Hawaii is one of the most accessible sites for users from multiple regions.

The Best Travel Blogs for Your Hawaii Vacation

Once you’ve decided where to go, the real fun begins—planning your trip. And in that case, what better way to do your planning than with an insider’s look into your next great travel adventure? So, for an island guide to help you create the perfect trip itinerary, check out these awesome Hawaii travel blogs.

Everyone wants the best of the best when they go on a vacation to the tropics: the best beaches, hikes, waterfalls, restaurants, and more. You name it; visitors want to experience it. Luckily those who stumble onto the Best of Oahu will have an easier time finding it on Hawaii’s most visited island. 

Created by Bradah James, the Best of Oahu offers a local’s take on the enchanting mix of city life, culture, and natural beauty that the Gathering Place is famous for. Of course, it’s no surprise that many visitors’ first thought of Oahu is either Honolulu, Waikiki Beach, or Pearl Harbor National Memorial. However, James knows the island is all this and much more. Famous north shore surf contends against east coast outdoor adventures and endless activities in Honolulu. But have no fear. The Best of Oahu promises to guide you through it all for a taste of real Hawaii. And we mean that literally, too—the travel blog comes stacked with recommendations on the best foods and restaurants to try for a truly ono-licious Hawaii trip. 

Prepare for sun, sand, and surf on what many argue is the best island for first-time visitors to Hawaii. And by the time your trip ends, you’ll be walking the valleys and coasts like a local. The best of the real Oahu awaits, thanks to the Best of Oahu.

Between its sun and the sea, Maui has a lot to be proud of. While the Pride of Maui is an aptly-named catamaran for exploring the oceans around Maui, those wishing to discover the Valley Isle’s most prized treasures above and below the water’s surface can dive headfirst into the Pride of Maui travel blog. 

The Pride of Maui will treat you to your first warm Aloha to the Valley Isle. The extensive Hawaii travel blog covers everything you need to know about visiting Maui, whether it’s your first visit or your fifth. Discover the best places to eat, shop, and have fun in the sand on this unique Hawaiian Island. 

You’re not taking the word of just any travel writer, either. With local guides sharing their recommendations, you can find classic Hawaii favorites alongside hidden gems. The site is easy to navigate, so you can quickly find answers about where to eat and what to do. You can even find information on Maui-made products and how to support local businesses during your trip.

Everyone talks about Maui’s sunny shores, golden coasts, and warm waters for a good reason. But, whether you start your adventure on land or sea, Pride of Maui takes future visitors on a unique foray into paradise above and below the water’s surface. 

Like a call to action, Love Big Island entreats those planning a Hawaii visit to fall in love. Indeed, travelers will have a hard time resisting the beauty and magic of the Big Island. Still, they may find themselves a bit overwhelmed by its many wonders, from erupting volcanoes to snow-capped mountains and bubbling hot springs. 

Thankfully, Love Big Island doesn’t leave its visitors floundering as those to the Big Island’s shore may find themselves. Instead, the travel blog takes a hands-on approach to help visitors conquer the Island of Hawaii. Heavy on the details, the blog provides travel tips, fun outings, and carefully organized itineraries to level up your trip planning. You can also meander around the site to pick up interesting bits of knowledge about Hawaii’s youngest and largest island. Fall into the myths surrounding the fiery goddess Pele and learn the facts that explain why Hawaii’s only green sand beach is green in the first place.

Because the Big Island is a popular gateway to the other major Hawaiian Islands, Love Big Island also prepares you with full itineraries to visit multiple islands or just drop in and see some of the highlights.

Travelers to the Big Island can and will fall in love with the volcanic rock, black sand beaches, and massive peaks. But even before setting foot on the Big Island, future visitors can fall head over heels for the Island of Hawaii thanks to Love Big Island. 

Kauai looks and feels like an undiscovered paradise to many intrepid explorers. However, old hats to Kauai’s charm have paved the way for an island experience unlike any other. Whether you’re a planner or a last-minute adventurer, the Kauai Travel Blog will help you achieve the vacation of your dreams on the Garden Isle. 

With deep dives into Kauai’s must-see spots, hiking trails, and coasts, you’ll know where to go for the best sunshine or climb of your life. Even if you hate planning and just like doing, the Kauai Travel Blog is still beneficial. The blog has an entire page dedicated to updates covering recent closures and openings on the island, including for Kauai’s beautiful but temperamental north shore. 

You don’t have to get lost to lose yourself in Kauai’s stunning beauty, and Kauai Travel Blog will ensure you stay surefooted every step of the way.

The Best Blogs for Hawaii Travel Tips

Often, the standard Hawaii travel blogs will gloss over more niche aspects of travel, like singling out the true taste of Hawaii or highlighting the best places to go with a family of little ones. Luckily, these Hawaii travel blogs pick up the slack.

A taste of real Hawaii starts with the food. One of the biggest don’ts with eating in Hawaii is restricting your meals to the big chain restaurants. Instead, you can kiss the same old goodbye with Onolicious Hawaii. Started by a local Oahuan, Onolicious Hawaii offers visitors a taste of the good life with eating guides on the best restaurants in Maui, Waikiki, and Honolulu. 

The blog is run and written by Kathy, who grew up in Honolulu. Consequently, the recommendations mainly center around restaurants and food places in Oahu. However, you’ll find suggestions for spots on the Big Island, Maui, and Kauai sprinkled throughout. 

On top of restaurant recommendations, readers of Onolicious Hawaii can find explanations of popular Hawaiian food and even try to recreate classic Hawaiian dishes.

With its exciting fusion of Hawaiian, Asian, and American cuisine, the flavors of Hawaii are broad and diverse. By the end of your trip, Onolicious Hawaii endeavors to have you saying Aloha—as in goodbye—to the islands with a full belly and a happy heart.

The spirit of Aloha touches everyone who lives on and visits the islands and follows long after you leave. This is what Amy, the creator behind the travel blog, Aloha with Love, discovered when she left Hawaii for the first time. And after returning and playing tour guide to her friends, Amy decided to write down her experiences of living and exploring the Hawaiian Islands. 

Thus, the “Hawaii blog by a local girl” was born. Aloha with Love offers a local’s guide to visiting Hawaii, planning your trip, and picking the best activities on any island, whether it’s visiting staples like Hawaii’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island or exploring the world’s highest sea cliffs in Molokai. 

And for those interested in a bit of Hawaii living, Amy offers a glimpse into what it’s all about, from days spent in her garden to evenings at the Night Market. Amy shows visitors what Hawaii is like through the eyes of a local.

Traveling with your family isn’t always easy. As much as you love the memories you build together as a family, getting to those memorable highlights can be a bit of trial and error for many, especially when navigating Hawaii’s shifting landscapes. 

While supposed guidebooks and experts will label different beaches and hiking trails kid-friendly, the reality can look very different on paper, with “easy” trails turning out to be all too rugged terrain for little legs and swimmable beaches showcasing rough waves. That doesn’t mean you have to stick to the city, though. Just find a Hawaii travel blog that knows what it’s talking about regarding family travel. For that, Hawaii Family Life has parents’ backs. 

Parents taking their families to Hawaii will appreciate the down-to-earth real talk of Hawaii Family Life. Dive deep with travel guides for navigating the islands with kids, tips for the best reef-safe sunscreens to use, and tours and activities the whole family can enjoy, no matter if they’re three years old or thirteen.  

From one family to another, Hawaii Family Life paints a clear picture of your Hawaii family vacation.

Nervous about traveling solo to the Hawaiian Islands? Don’t be. While Hawaii isn’t necessarily known as the land of solo adventurers, it’s the perfect place to dive out of your comfort zone and into some spectacularly warm—and friendly—waters. 

Hawaii is one of the safest places to travel in the US, making it a no-brainer choice for your next solo adventure or your first. But if you’re not 100 percent convinced about going solo, consider Hawaii Travel Spot your trusty trip buddy. Even the most experienced solo travelers need a hand every now and then. So, if you need tips on safety, which islands to visit, or places to stay for any budget, Hawaii Travel Spot has your back. The comprehensive guide for solo travelers covers the basics, but if you need more info on getting around the islands, the biggest mistakes to avoid, and other helpful tips, this travel blog gives you a 360-degree view of what travel looks like in Hawaii.

Despite its appearance, Hawaii doesn’t have to be only for family vacationers or couple getaway-ers. Hawaii is a land for everyone to enjoy and the perfect place for the solo trip of a lifetime. 

Next Vacay isn’t just for learning more about the Hawaiian Islands. It can also help you get there for cheaper. Paired with amazing flight deals to the Gathering Place, the Garden Isle, and more, Next Vacay enables you to make your Hawaii vacation stress-free before you’ve even stepped foot on its sandy shores.

So, don’t wait to make your Hawaii plans a reality. Live the dream with Next Vacay !

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With beautiful coastlines, beaches and state parks, this 7-day Kauai itinerary is filled with memorable experiences.

Oh Kauai – you really are paradise on earth! With gorgeous beaches, spectacular waterfalls and breathtaking coastlines, you won’t be short of things to pack into your 7 day Kauai itinerary.

It’s fair to say that Hawaii is one of the most magical holiday destinations in the world. If you’ve already decided where you want to go, you’re in for a treat as this post is dedicated to the best things to do in Kauai! 

Kauai is the fourth largest of the main Hawaiian islands, and has the nickname, the garden island. The name is pretty accurate as the island is a blanket of green cliffs and mountains! Whether you’re a mountain lover or more of a beach lounger, you’ll find everything you love on this picturesque island.

Kauai is warm all year round, so there’s no worrying about when to visit. Just book your flights and go! Head to Waimea Canyon for stunning views, or go and chase some waterfalls on the Wailua river. 

With so much on offer, you might struggle to decide what to do in Kauai! That’s where I come in though! Hopefully this 7-day Kauai itinerary will give you some inspiration. It’s packed full of all the best things to do on the magnificent island, as well as lots of tips for making the most of your trip!

If you’re just starting to plan your dream holiday, don’t miss my guide to the best islands in Hawaii . From Maui to the Big Island, I’ve shared what makes each island special, and what kind of travellers will enjoy each one!

The Ultimate 7-Day Itinerary Kauai

• Day 1: Travel and relax on Poipu Beach
• Day 2: Trek to Waimea Canyon 
• Day 3: Head to Na Pali Coast and spot some whales
• Day 4: Pop to Poipu for a day of ziplining 
• Day 5: Relax or snorkel on Tunnels Beach
• Day 6: Go on a helicopter tour of Kauai
• Day 7: Wake up early and hike the Maha’Ulepu trail before seeing some waterfalls

What To Do In Kauai? 15 Best Things To Do In Kauai 

Explore waimea canyon state.

Known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific , Waimea Canyon is a stunning natural beauty. If you’re looking for the ultimate Instagram shot, I think you’ll agree this is a pretty perfect backdrop!

You could hire a rental car to drive along Highway 550 to visit some of the Waimea Canyon lookouts. Along the way you’ll see lots of unique spots, each providing different views and angles of the canyon and the famous red dirt waterfall. 

The colours and layers of the canyon will leave you breathless. I’d recommend allowing at least half a day of your 7 days in Kauai to enjoy it properly. 

Find Kilauea Lighthouse

If you’re a Disney fan, you might recognise Kilauea Lighthouse from Lilo and Stitch ! Located on a peninsula, the iconic lighthouse is a national wildlife refuge.  

If you have animal lovers or Disney lovers in your family, you should definitely add Kilauea lighthouse on your 7-day Kauai itinerary. 

Spot red-footed bobbys, lawson albatross or the great frigatebird from the point of the peninsula. A travel tip for you is to ask the information centre for binoculars; they let you borrow them for free!

Hike The Maha’Ulepu Heritage Trail 

When looking for things to do in Kauai you’ve got to take in the undulating landscapes on a hike. If you’re an early riser, I’d recommend setting your alarm and catching an unmissable sunrise. 

The Maha’Ulepu Heritage Trail leads you to some incredible ocean views that face east for sunrise. It’s a gorgeous place to visit during daytimes too, but there’s a sprinkle of magic at sunrise!

Explore The Magnificent Beaches Of Kauai

You can’t spend 7 days in Kauai and not explore some of the island’s many beaches. 

Snorkel At Tunnels Beach 

If you love seeing underwater life, snorkelling at Tunnels Beach has to be on your 7 day Kauai itinerary. The best time to see tropical fish and turtles is in the morning when the tide is low! 

As of August 2022, the State of Hawaii has prohibited snorkelling in the inner reef to protect the fish nursery. Don’t worry though, there are still plenty of areas near the beach where you can snorkel and see lots of tropical fish. 

Spot Seals on Poipu Beach

You may be surprised how easy it is to see seals on this Hawaiian island! In fact, I’d say your 7-day trip to Kauai would not be complete without a trip to see the seals on Poipu Beach. The seals happily chill out on the shores here most days. The law protects them, so don’t get too close! 

Sail The Na Pali Coast and Spot The Whales

There are many ways to see the magnificent Na Pali coast: from the sky, by boat, catamaran, or even a raft! However, if you want to spot some whales, I’d recommend booking a boat trip . 

Kauai is known for the dramatic sea cliffs, which line the Na Pali coast. In the summer months, your sailing trip here might include snorkelling, although it depends on the weather as the waves can reach 7-8ft tall!

Even if you can’t snorkel, you can still spot whales, turtles and dolphins as they swim past the boat. This is definitely one of the most memorable things to do in Kauai.

Kauai Island Helicopter Tour 

If you’re deciding what to include in your 7 day Kauai itinerary, how about treating yourself to a helicopter ride ! There is no better way to see the garden island than from the sky. On a helicopter tour of Kauai , an expert will tell you all about the gorgeous landscapes below. 

I’d recommend the Kauai Island ride as you’ll see plenty of iconic spots, such as Jurassic Falls, Waimea Canyon and the cliffs of Na Pali Coast.

This really is such a unique experience, special to Kauai, as no other landscape has such diversity of beaches, coastlines and luscious green and red canyons. 

Kayak On Wailua River

Kayaking the Wailua River is an amazing way to see the island from the water. It is one of the most popular activities in Wailua, as it allows you to explore the idyllic river and take in the sights.

Hiring a kayak and sailing off together for a few hours is a must-do if you are on a romantic trip to Kauai. Along the way you’ll get to discover the many secret waterfalls, and perhaps even stop for a refreshing swim. 

Chase Some Waterfalls

Don’t go chasing waterfalls… no wait, actully do! 

If you’re visiting Kauai for the first time, you should definitely visit some of the island’s stunning waterfalls. These are two of the most popular, but there are plenty more across the island, so no doubt you’ll see a few more on your holiday.

Wailua Falls 

The 80 ft drop waterfall is just north of the airport and cascades into two streams. It is an accessible waterfall from the road, so there is no need for a hike. You might also recognise this one from TV, as it appeared on Fantasy Island ! If you’re short on time, it’s an ideal spot to visit before heading to the airport.

Opaeka’a Falls

If you fancy a bit more of a hike for an even bigger waterfall, head to Opaeka’a Falls! Pack a picnic for lunch and enjoy it right in front of the 151 ft waterfall, which cascades beautifully into a hidden pool. 

Also, an interesting fact is that Opaeka’a means rolling shrimp , as the stream used to be full of shrimp! 

Eat Some Tasty Food At Luau Kalamaku Open Bar And Dinner

An unmissable event to squeeze into your 7 days in Kauai is the Luau Kalamaku extravaganza . It’s popular with tourists, as it features hula dancers, fireball twirlers, knife dancing and even a native storyteller. Plus, you’ll get to sit down and enjoy a generous buffet with traditional dishes.

If you are a food lover and want to immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture, this dining experience is for you. 

Go Ziplining in Poipu 

Are you a thrill seeker? Then you’ll love the fun zipline over Poipu . It’s guaranteed to get your adrenaline pumping. There are five ziplines in total, which will have you soaring over the valleys and ocean! How fun is that?

If you’re looking for family-friendly things to do in Kauai, this zipline adventure will definitely be crowd-pleaser!

Eat Shaved Ice in Kauai

Would it really be a one-week holiday in Kauai without eating shaved ice pretty much every single day?

If you haven’t had the pleasure of eating shaved ice before, it is like eating snow! It’s famous in Hawaii and is served in a big cone. It’s then flavoured with different syrups such as papaya and passionfruit. In Kauai, they sometimes serve it with ice cream on top! 

8 Practical Tips For Your Trip To Kauai

• Rent a Car: Kauai’s beauty is spread across the island, and having a rental car is essential for exploring the diverse landscapes, from the stunning Na Pali Coast to Waimea Canyon.
• Pack for Outdoor Adventures: Kauai is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. Bring comfortable hiking shoes, swimwear and snorkelling gear. Also, be prepared for rain! The island can experience sudden rain showers so pack a jacket or an umbrella.
• Respect the ‘Aina (Land): Hawaiians have a deep connection to their land. Be respectful of the environment and culture. Stay on designated paths, don’t touch or remove anything from natural sites, and avoid disturbing wildlife.
• Safety on Hikes: If you plan to hike, let someone know your plans and expected return time. Some trails can be challenging, so assess your fitness level and choose hikes that match your abilities. Always carry essentials like water, snacks, a map, and a first-aid kit.
• Limited Nightlife: Kauai is not known for its nightlife scene. Expect early closing times for restaurants and limited evening entertainment. Embrace the island’s laid-back vibe and enjoy the natural beauty instead.
• Sunscreen and Bug Spray: Protect yourself from the strong Hawaiian sun by using sunscreen with a high SPF. Don’t forget insect repellent, as Kauai has its fair share of mosquitoes, especially near water and in rainforest areas.
• Local Cuisine: Try local Hawaiian dishes like poke, plate lunches, and fresh tropical fruits. Support local restaurants and food trucks for an authentic culinary experience.
• Book Tours in Advance : If you plan to take guided tours, such as helicopter rides or boat tours of the Na Pali Coast, it’s wise to book them in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. I’d recommend looking at what’s available on GetYourGuide .

I hope this Kauai travel guide helps you plan an awesome itinerary for your time on the island. If you’re looking for more Hawaii travel tips, take a look at these guides…

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Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

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Hawaii travel blog — the fullest hawaii travel guide blog for a great trip to hawaii islands for first-timers.

Known as the pearl of the Pacific Ocean, Hawaii is a great destination for those who love to explore the majestic beauty of nature and the sea, especially when summer comes. Hawaii is the 50th state of the United States and is the only US state surrounded by an ocean (Pacific) and is not bordered by any country. Hawaii is also the only state that continues to rise up, due to flowing lava flows, especially from volcano of Kīlauea. Honolulu is the capital of the state, the highest temperature of Honolulu is 31 degrees Celsius and the lowest is only 13 degrees Celsius. There are many large and small islands, famous for many beautiful atolls. Hawaii attracts tourists with its fresh air, stunning natural landscape, clear blue sky and beautiful ocean. So, what to do in Hawaii and how to visit Hawaii? Let’s check out our Hawaii travel blog (Hawaii blogs travel, Hawaii blog) with the fullest Hawaii travel guide blog for the best and budget trip to Hawaii for the first-timers.

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Hawaii is famous for its fresh air, beautiful natural landscape, wonderful beaches and countless memorable experiences. Thanks to that, the archipelago has been chosen as the setting for many films such as “Pearl Harbor”, “Jurassic Park”, “50 First Dates” … This is also a resort place is choose by many stars of America and the world as well.

Hawaii travel blog (Hawaii blogs travel): When to visit?

The weather in Hawaii is quite similar to Vietnam but in particular Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), winters are a bit colder, about 25 degrees Celsius, and in summer it ranging from 30-35 degrees Celsius. Hawaii also rain but not too much and last, only a few hours so you can travel to Hawaii at any time of the year. There are a few high mountains in Hawaii, which are colder up there, so if you plan on climbing, be sure to prepare.

In the summer, between April and November, the weather is warmer and drier, the average temperature is 21.5-28 degrees Celsius while in winter, between December and March, the weather is colder around 18-24 degrees Celsius. However, you should go in May or November every year due to the nice weather and the price at this time is very reasonable with much cheaper flight tickets compared to the months of Christmas or summer vacation.

The best time to visit Hawaii is in April, May, September and October. April and May are pleasant weather and a good time for whales watching. Meanwhile, September and October are the low season so the price is more affordable and you can also enjoy the Aloha festival. You should avoid coming here in June, July and the last 2 weeks of December, because that’s when the students are off school, so many families will bring their children here to rest, flights can be overload and prices of services will increase.

Hawaii travel guide blog: Before you go

• You need to prepare documents according to regulations and pass a strict interview to get an US visa.
• When holding an US visa in hand, you must fill out the agricultural safety declaration form for the Hawaii Department of Agriculture Plant Quarantine Office to inspect at the baggage claim area. In addition, you need to comply with not carrying prohibited luggage at the airport such as not wearing shoes, clothing, jewelry and other accessories containing metal, ensure the luggage does not exceed 2 suitcases per person, …
• The advice for clothing for your trip to Hawaii is to hit the road with light, loose, and comfortable clothes. However, if you choose to explore the islands, you should bring a jacket and pants to keep warm.
• Weather warnings are equally important. The Central Pacific Hurricane Center (CPHC) of the United States National Weather Service will help you keep track of the weather and issue weather and disaster alerts (if any) before you you go to Hawaii.
• People in Hawaii communicate in English, so you need to prepare well the language to not have a language disadvantage when traveling.

Hawaii travel guide blog: How to get to Hawaii?

Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) on Oahu Island is Hawaii’s main airport, doing immigration procedures for tourists to Hawaii. So you can getting to Hawaii from all over the world. You can choose Eva Air, Air France, Korean Air, Philippine Airlines, ANA, Delta, American Airlines or Vietnam Airlines with various prices depending on the ticket class, travel time, transit points. The average price for an air ticket to Hawaii is 1.100 USD. From experience, you can save money and time by choosing Korean Airlines with more than 12 hours of flight and 2 hours of transit. As for other carriers, you have to transit for a long time and fatigue.

• Shared Honolulu International Airport (HNL) Transfers for Honolulu

Hawaii blog: Getting around islands of Hawaii

In Hawaii, you can easily getting around by car, taxi or bus if only traveling within an island, if you want to travel between islands, you can take a boat. To travel on islands like Honolulu or Maui, you can use Uber or Lyft. I see that Lyft is much more popular and easier to catch on these two islands than Uber, so remember to have this app installed, bring your credit card when needed. A Lyft trip can be cheaper than taking a taxi from USD5 to USD10, so I love it, I also actively know when the driver arrives, choose any type of car you want.

Those who have an international driver’s license can rent a car for self-driving, this will be the cheapest solution and it will be cheaper if you go with many people to sharing the cost. Self-driving in America also helps you to freely traveling, not depending on a taxi or anyone else.

Particularly in the Waikiki area in the city of Honolulu, this is one of the most crowded tourist areas on this island, can be seen as the city center to find anything. Here you can rent a Biki bike to cycling around the center, which is very interesting and convenient, cheap. Biki bike stations are completely automatic, you can go there and swipe your credit card and take a bike. The price for 300 minutes of cycling is USD20, it can last for days until you run out of minutes. If you take a single trip from A to B within 30 minutes, the price is USD3.5.

Hawaii travel blog: What to do and best places to visit?

Traveling to Hawaii, you cannot help but visit the world famous Pearl Harbor in the south of the capital Honolulu. The “Pearl Harbor attack” (December 7, 1941) that shocked the world took place here. In addition, great beaches will attract you such as Waikiki Beach, Oahu, Haleakala Beach, Maui, Polihua Beach, Lanai, Akaka Waterfall, Hawaii … you should also visit the volcanoes – one of the most astonishing scenes in Hawaii and the world, especially visit the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you will learn the history of volcanoes, eruptions in the past and joining volcanic tours.

Waikiki beach

Waikiki is a central district of ​​Honolulu, and all fun activities and public beaches can be found here. The water of Waikiki Beach is clear and turquoise, extremely smooth sand, it perfects for swimming. Going to Hawaii without swimming is totally wrong 😀

Waikiki beach is very long, you can choose an deserted spot to swim. Be sure to watch for lifeguard’s commands and flag signs for bathing and not bathing areas. You should take a Biki bike to go from the hotel to the beach, there is a place to lock the bike right at the beach, so you do not fear losing (and also no charge for extra time).

Hanauma Bay

The bay has an arc shape with clear water that you can see the bottom and thousands of fish of all colors swimming freely around this place. Not only that, Hanauma also has beautiful coral reefs for you to explore. This place is a paradise for those who are passionate about diving as well as love watching the vivid and diverse creatures under the sea. It’s easy to rent diving gear in the shops nearby or bring your own.

Diamond Head State Monument

This place is also known as Howling Winds Peak and is located on the island of Oahu. Come here, you will be able to admire the majestic scenery of nature with the mountain hidden in the mist. In particular, after climbing to the top, you will hear the unique screams of the wind amidst the wild mountains in a certain location, but once you leave, only the silence and silence remains.

Address: Honolulu, HI 96815, United States

Wall of Tears Waterfalls

Bearing a very poetic name, meaning “wall of tears”, this waterfall is formed with 17 streams falling down the cliff. The way to fully admire the beautiful scenery of the waterfall is take a panoramic view from helicopter.

Maui Ocean Center (The Aquarium of Hawaii)

This place is considered a miniature ocean of Hawaii with all the typical sea life here as well as other species, extremely rich and diverse. You can walk around and watch marine life through a thin layer of glass. There are sections where you will be able to walk on a lake full of water, some sections are fish swimming right above your head, all these interesting experiences are attractive not only to children but even adults. Visiting Maui Ocean Center, you will have the opportunity to be in close contact with the ocean world full of surprises, and the most unforgettable experiences for you.

Address: 192 Maalaea Rd, Wailuku, HI 96793, United States

Maui Ocean Center One Day Pass

Iolani Palace

This is America’s only Royal Palace and one of the most beautiful palaces in the world. Built in the years 1879-1882, Iolani has a very unique architecture bearing important historical values ​​as well as a place to keep the remains of the royal family members of Hawaii. Coming to the Iolani Palace, you can visit the bedrooms as well as the special tomb area of ​​the old royal family.

Address: 364 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96813, United States Opened: 1879 Hours: 9AM–4PM / Sunday: Closed

Nā Pali Coast State Wilderness Park

If you are not sure where to go when traveling to Hawaii, the Nā Pali Coast State Wilderness Park will be a great suggestion for you. This is a famous sightseeing spot in Hawaii that attracts a large number of domestic and foreign tourists. Coming here, you will have the opportunity to admire the wonderful natural scenery, along with giant old trees to diverse marine life.

Address: Kapaʻa, HI 96746, United States

Pearl Harbor National Memorial

Referring to the famous sights in Hawaii, it is impossible not to mention the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, this place attracts more than 2 million visits of tourists each year. This is the largest natural port in Hawaii and is also the sea with a very large number of pearls, so the local people named it as Pearl Harbor.

Pearl Harbor is the place where Japan sudden attacked the US on December 7, 1941 with a lot of Zero planes bombing the The United States Pacific Fleet (USPACFLT) anchored here. Due to not being well prepared, the US was severely damaged. When visiting Pearl Harbor, you should visit 4 spots as follows:

When visiting Pearl Harbor, you have the following 4 points to visit:

• USS Bowfin Submarine (SS-287), one of the American submarines that destroyed the most enemies in World War 2. Here you can get on the submarine to visit the inside, very meaningful.
• USS Missouri (BB-63) (also known as the Mighty Mo): Where Japan signed the Treaty of surrender to the Allies, marking the end of World War II.
• Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum: Terminal 37, which contained many aircrafts at the time Pearl Harbor was attacked, was transformed into a museum with real aircrafts in it. The next terminal also has more modern aircrafts for you to visit.
• USS Arizona Memorial: This is the battleship was sunk in the Attack on Pearl Harbor.

Address: 1 Arizona Memorial Pl, Honolulu, HI 96818, United States Opened: May 30, 1962 Hours: 7AM–5PM

One of the highlights of my trip was that I cycled along Kalakaua avenue and saw the beautiful scenery. I saw the excellent beaches, the luxury resorts, visited the Hawaiʻi Institute of Marine Biology, cycle across Diamond Head Mountain (a large volcanic cliff jutting out in the city). The air is cool, peaceful, the streets are not too crowded, plus the golden sunshine spreads everywhere at 3pm makes my trip more interesting.

Kona Coffee Farms

Whether you like coffee or not, when traveling to Hawaii you should also visit the coffee farm in Kona once. Coming here, in addition to exploring the coffee garden and coffee factories, you can also enjoy a delicious cup of coffee made directly in the garden. Also, if you come to Hawaii in November, you also have the opportunity to participate in the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival. Some famous coffee farms in Kona you should visit: Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation, Hilo Coffee Mill, Greenwell Farms, …

Polynesian Cultural Center

This is the most poetic place of the Hawaiian Islands and is a must-visit place when traveling to Hawaii. With unique architecture, coming here you will be immersed in vibrant dances, mesmerizing music and cultural performances recreating ancient living customs of the Polynesians.

Address: 55-370 Kamehameha Hwy, Laie, HI 96762, United States Hours: 12–9PM / Monday, Wednesday: Closed

• Hawaii Polynesian Cultural Center Day Tour

Sandy Beach

This is a popular tourist destination in Hawaii, attracting a large number of tourists during the summer. It has a beautiful Sandy Beach, perfect for bathing and windsurfing with huge waves.

In addition, you can visit other famous spots below:

• Halona Blow Hole
• King Kamehameha Statue
• Hawaii State Capitol
• National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific

Hawaii blogs travel: Where to stay?

My experience is to book hotels near the center of Waikiki beach, so traveling, shopping, sightseeing are easy and convenient. I stayed at a hotel called Shoreline Hotel Waikiki ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) , the price per night is about USD120, the room is quite good, the color is beautiful, modern, inspiring for my trip and clean, new. Shoreline Hotel is designed in a neon style, so it’s a bit colorful, in return, it is very young, going to the beach, must have fun :D. The downside is probably that the Wakiki area is more expensive than the outskirts.

Below we recommend more best cheap, budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

Hotel LaCroix , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $166/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Embassy Suites By Hilton – Waikiki Beach Walk , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $282/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $416/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Trump International Hotel Waikiki , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $437/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Aston at The Whaler on Kaanapali Beach , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $638/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Finding accommodation in Hawaii is easy from quaint hotels to modern hotels and international standard resorts available in Hawaii for you to choose from. However, on holidays, hotel room rates can be 3 times higher than normal days. Hotel reservations are made easy with Agoda.com , Booking.com or Airbnb.com that offer many good deals if you plan to book early.

Hawaii travel blog: What to eat?

For Hawaiian cuisine, you should try Ahi Poke (Tuna Poke – Hawaiian Raw-Tuna Salad) made from raw tuna, Luau Cupcakes (chocolate-covered muffins) is a famous dessert in Hawaii, enjoy Poi Mochi (Sweet Hawaiian Fried Snack) is made from taro created by the first-timers set foot on Hawaii islands around 400 years AD. This dish still exists to this day and has become the favorite dish of the local people. In addition, Hawaii has countless other attractive dishes such as Spam Musubi (combined of salted rice with a slice of raw or cooked ham and rolled by a dried seaweed), Furikake (a mixture of dried fish, ground fish, sesame, seaweed, sugar, salt and spices), …

Sweet bread

Sweet bread is probably not a new dish, because there are many famous sweet breads in many countries around the world. However, in each place, sweet bread is processed in its own way, with its own color and flavor, compared to other types, the Hawaiian sweet bread has a much softer, light sweet taste.

The main ingredients of sweet bread are flour, sugar, salt, lemon juice, chips and eggs, … This dish is quite popular in Hawaii, visitors can easily find sweet bread in stores to the roadside stalls. This dish is considered a prominent street food in Hawaii.

Kalua Pork – Hawaiian Style Slow Cooker Kalua Pork

Kalua pork is a traditional dish in Hawaii that is processed by the people here in a strange and unique recipe. The pigs, after being preliminarily cleaned, they put them to a large pit or a specialized burial kiln (this form is called ima) with layers of banana leaves underneath, then arrange lava rocks around the pig and make a big fire. Finally, a layer of fresh banana leaves and wet sacks are covered and covered with soil and sand. You will have to wait at least 8 hours to enjoy this wonderful dish, with its soft, juicy, delicious meat.

Poi mochi is one of the special traditional dishes in Hawaii, this dish originated from the people who first arrived in Hawaii around 400 years AD.

Poi mochi is made by crushing the stem of the taro plant into flour and then cooking it. Poi mochi is milky white and gelatinous like mash, local people often eat it with salted fish or caviar. This is a popular dish, but it is considered quite difficult to eat.

Haupia Coconut Cake

Haupia first appeared when Hawaiians knew how to use coconut in cuisine, over a long time of processing and using, people have improved this dish, bringing a more delicious and attractive taste. With the main ingredient made from pure coconut, add chocolate, Haupia has a very strange sweet taste, very attractive.

Loco moco is also considered one of the best traditional dishes in Hawaii. For this dish, you can use it as breakfast or lunch. The way to cook Loco-Moco dish is diverse, rich and quite simple, just a little white rice and covered with meat, eggs, gravy can already enjoy. Each recipe brings its own unique flavor.

Tuna Poke, Tako Poke

Referring to Hawaiian cuisine, it is impossible to ignore the rich and extremely delicious seafood dishes here. Among popular seafood dishes, Ahi (Poke Tuna – Hawaiian Raw-Tuna Salad) is the most beloved, the specialty of Hawaii, this dish consists of rice or salad mixed with diced raw fish, usually tuna or salmon or Tako poke – usually made from sliced baby octopus, add chili peper, sesame oil, soy sauce, chopped onion.

Hawaii travel blog: Shopping

Traveling to Hawaii, you should be assured of gifts for loved ones because there are bustling shopping streets, luxury department stores selling brand goods, fashion shops, jewelry and shops selling products made in Hawaii. Many shopping malls also offer free delivery to hotels.

Kalakaua Avenue Shopping

Kalakaua is an avenue running through Waikiki central area, this is also home to many large and small restaurants and eateries and a lot of shopping malls, including Apple Store. Strolling along this street you can see lots of products, shops with full of price ranges for you to choose from.

Taxes in Hawaii are also lower than those in the US mainland, only 4.5% to 5.37% depending on the area, so buying goods here is extremely cheap, especially technology products. If you go to mainland America, some places have 6% tax, some 8%, so you will have to spend more money.

Kahala Mall

If you are looking for cheap shopping places in Hawaii then Kahala Mall Center will be the ideal suggestion for you. When you come here, you will see a wide variety of goods on sale throughout the mall from clothes, shoes, cosmetics, toys to foods … Moreover, not only helps satisfy the shopping needs, but here you will have the opportunity to discover delicious and attractive dishes in Hawaii, the great cinemas in Kahala Mall.

Address: 4211 Waialae Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816, United States Hours: 10AM–9PM

Royal Hawaiian Center

Is a famous shopping place in Hawaii with a large area, up to 293,000 square feet. There are more than 150 large and small stores selling a variety of items such as fashion, electronics, cosmetics, furniture … Besides, there are also many delicious restaurants in Hawaii also gathered here.

Address: 2201 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, United States Hours: 11AM–8PM

Borders Bookstore

If you’re looking for good books or stationery items, head to Borders Bookstore, now merged with Barnes & Noble. This is a large and famous bookstore in Hawaii and it sells all kinds of books from science, novels, books specializing in economics, administration … to help you have more options when buying books. Especially, when you come here you can find yourself a quiet corner to read and feel the content is also very interesting.

Address: 1200 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96814 Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Hawaii travel blog: Recommended travel itinerary for Hawaii with 6 days 5 nights:

Day 1: SAIGON – HONOLULU

• Waikiki Beach
• Diamond Head
• Hanauma Bay Lookout

Day 2: HONOLULU

• Pearl Harbor
• King Kamehameha statue
• China Town, State Capitol Building
• Iolani Palace, Punchbowl National Cemetery.

Day 3: HONOLULU

• Shopping at the commercial centers.
• Hawaii Polynesian Cultural Center

Day 4: HONOLULU – FREEDOM

• Shopping at major shopping malls in Honolulu as introduced above.

Day 5: HONOLULU – SEOUL (transit)

Day 6: SAIGON

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Hawaii you can refer to

• Hawaii Atlantis Submarine Experience
• Go Oahu Card – All Inclusive Pass
• Germaine’s Luau in Oahu
• Shark Encounter Adventure Private Trip with Sea Life Park Admission in Hawaii

Are you looking for more top things to do in Marina: Tours, activities, attractions and other things?  Let’s check it out here. And What to buy in Hawaii? — 18+ best Hawaii gifts & best things to buy in Hawaii.

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Review: Fairmont Orchid

popular post today

Fairmont Orchid

Located in the united states.

The Fairmont Orchid is your Accor choice on Hawaii’s Big Island and one of a limited number of luxury hotels you can choose from on the coastline of this volcanic idyll.

We have compared the Fairmont Orchid to Mauna Lani, the next-door hotel which is just up the coast. Other great hotels in Big Island include Four Seasons Hualalai and Rosewood Kona Village .

The Fairmont Orchid is ideally situated on the Kohala Coast of Hawaii’s Big Island, offering guests a stunning oceanfront setting amidst 32 acres of lush tropical gardens. Nestled along a picturesque white sand lagoon, the resort enjoys sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and provides convenient access to pristine beaches for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxation. Located approximately 30 minutes north of Kona International Airport, the Fairmont Orchid offers a tranquil retreat away from the hustle and bustle yet is within easy reach of the island’s attractions and activities.

Style & Character

The Fairmont Orchid exudes a timeless elegance fused with authentic Hawaiian charm, embodying the essence of tropical luxury. Nestled amidst lush gardens and overlooking the azure waters of the Pacific Ocean along the Kohala Coast, this resort captures the spirit of aloha with its warm hospitality and tranquil ambiance.

The architecture, inspired by traditional Hawaiian design, harmoniously blends with the natural surroundings, creating a serene retreat for guests seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. From the grand lobby adorned with native artwork to the spacious rooms and suites featuring luxurious amenities and private lanais, every detail reflects the resort’s commitment to providing an unforgettable Hawaiian experience.

Whether indulging in world-class dining, unwinding at the spa, or exploring the pristine beaches and cultural treasures nearby, the Fairmont Orchid offers a sanctuary where guests can immerse themselves in the beauty and serenity of the Hawaiian islands.

Service & Facilities

The pool at Fairmont Orchid is a serene oasis nestled amidst lush tropical gardens, offering a haven of relaxation and leisure for guests. Surrounded by swaying palm trees and vibrant foliage, the pool area provides a picturesque setting with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean beyond.

Guests can bask in the Hawaiian sunshine on comfortable lounge chairs or seek shade under umbrellas while enjoying refreshing drinks and snacks from the nearby poolside bar. The expansive freshwater swimming pool features cascading waterfalls, meandering pathways, and secluded alcoves, inviting guests to unwind and rejuvenate in its tranquil waters.

The beach at Fairmont Orchid is a pristine stretch of golden sand fringed by swaying coconut palms and crystalline waters, offering guests a secluded and picturesque escape along the Kohala Coast of Hawaii’s Big Island. Nestled within a protected bay, the beach provides a safe and tranquil environment for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities, making it ideal for guests of all ages.

Sunseekers can lounge on comfortable beach chairs under the shade of umbrellas while soaking in the warm Hawaiian sunshine and listening to the gentle lull of the ocean waves.

The Spa Without Walls at Fairmont Orchid offers guests a truly immersive wellness experience amidst the natural beauty of Hawaii’s Big Island. Nestled within lush tropical gardens and overlooking the sparkling Pacific Ocean, this award-winning spa provides a serene oasis for relaxation and rejuvenation.

With treatments inspired by traditional Hawaiian healing practices and utilizing local ingredients such as volcanic ash and mineral-rich seaweed, guests can indulge in a range of massages, facials, and body treatments that promote holistic well-being. The spa’s signature feature is its outdoor treatment huts set amidst cascading waterfalls and tranquil ponds, allowing guests to reconnect with nature while receiving therapeutic treatments.

Fairmont Orchid offers one of the best Fairmont golf resorts in the world . Here guests access to a premier golf experience amidst the breathtaking scenery of Hawaii’s Big Island. Situated adjacent to the resort is the renowned Mauna Lani Golf Club, featuring two championship courses: the North Course and the South Course. Designed by legendary golf architect Homer Flint and boasting panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding mountains, these courses offer an unforgettable golfing experience for players of all skill levels.

The North Course challenges golfers with its rugged terrain, lava fields, and oceanfront holes, while the South Course features rolling fairways, ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs, and scenic coastal vistas. Additionally, the Mauna Lani Golf Club offers comprehensive facilities including a driving range, putting greens, golf shop, and clubhouse with dining options, ensuring that guests can enjoy a complete golfing experience during their stay at Fairmont Orchid.

10 Best Fairmont Golf Resorts

Recommended Post In "Tips"

We have already investigated the best Four Seasons golf resorts, and the best Ritz-Carlton golf resorts. Now, we look exclusively at the best Fairmont Hotels and Resorts for golf. Spoiler alert! To get the best deal or discount at a Fairmont or any other luxury hotel, book via our luxury travel concierge. The Fairmont Chateau Whistler Golf Club is carved out of the slopes of the Coast Mountain range in British Columbia, this magnificent Robert Trent Jones, Jr. masterpiece allows nature to dictate the path without constraints of commercial influence.

The rooms at Fairmont Orchid offer a luxurious retreat imbued with authentic Hawaiian charm and modern comforts. Spacious and elegantly appointed, each room features upscale amenities such as plush bedding, marble bathrooms, and private lanais, boasting breathtaking ocean views, gardens, or resort grounds.

Traditional Hawaiian-inspired decor, with rich wood furnishings, earthy tones, and tropical accents, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, inviting guests to relax and unwind in style. Enjoy the cool ocean breeze from the comfort of their lanai or indulge in a restful night’s sleep amidst the soothing ambiance.

Food & Drink

Fairmont Orchid boasts an array of exquisite dining options, each offering a unique culinary experience amidst the breathtaking backdrop of the Kohala Coast. From the elegant oceanfront setting of Brown’s Beach House, where guests can savor fresh seafood and locally inspired cuisine, to the casual ambiance of Hale Kai Restaurant, serving up delicious breakfast and lunch options overlooking the sparkling pool, there is something to satisfy every palate.

Norio’s Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar offers an interactive dining experience with teppanyaki grills and expertly crafted sushi, while the Orchid Court serves up a delightful breakfast buffet featuring an array of international flavors. With its commitment to sourcing the freshest local ingredients and delivering exceptional service, Fairmont Orchid’s restaurants provide guests with a culinary journey that celebrates Hawaii’s rich flavors and diverse culinary traditions.

This hotel has a gorgeous tropical freeform pool setting and a great beach. It is a great pick on Big Island.

Copyright Luxury Travel Diary 2014 - 2024. Duplication outside of luxurytraveldiary.com is forbidden.

Image courtesy of Fairmont Orchid.

Note: Benefits & upgrades subject to availability. Benefits offered correct at the time of writing. Terms & conditions apply. Enquire for more information. Posts may be sponsored by the proprietor or brand being appraised. All opinions remain our own & are in no way influenced.

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This illegal Hawaii hike has caused controversy for years, now it's being removed for good

Starting this month, one of Hawaii’s most dangerous and controversial hikes will be permanently removed.

Oahu’s Stairway to Heaven trail, comprising 3,922 slick steel steps that ascend the narrow ridges of the Koolau Mountain Range, has been illegal to hike since 1987. Although trespassing cost hikers a $1,000 citation, thousands still attempted the trek for an Edenic view of the island. Social media helped propel the trail, also known as Haiku Stairs, into popularity. 

The process of dismantling the “aging, narrow metal stair structure” will begin with the removal of over 600 stair modules, according to a press release by the City and County of Honolulu. The entire project is expected to take six months.

During the Wednesday announcement, Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi said the removal is “long overdue.” 

“This decision that was made was predicated upon our respect for the people who live in and around the entrance to the stairs, our respect for our aina (land), and our respect for both the future and the past history of the culture of the Haiku community,” he added.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

The City and County of Honolulu unanimously passed Resolution 21-154 in 2021 to remove the stairs as an effort to increase the quality of life for the nearby residents, improve public safety and preserve the natural beauty of the lush Haiku Valley. 

Be a better tourist to Hawaii: Volunteer to help leave the islands better than when you arrived

Honolulu City Council Vice Chair Esther Kiaaina, who introduced the resolution, called the project “a new chapter for Haiku Valley” and the collective decision to eradicate the stairs is “for the good of the community” during the press conference , according to Hawaii New Now. 

"After decades of the community asking the government for relief, we had an obligation to make a decision and a decision that I knew would displease some people but at the end, I had to look at a lot of variable factors," Kiaaina, who has been involved in discussions around land management for Haiku Stairs for over two decades, told USA TODAY. She called it "a hard decision."

For decades, residents who live near the stairs have been complaining of disturbances by hikers, who often hopped fences and trespassed onto private property during the middle of the night to catch the sunrise. Some hikers blocked people’s driveways and vandalized or urinated on people’s property, the resolution said. 

Between August 2017 and March 2020, police officers turned away 11,427 people attempting to hike the stairs by passing through the surrounding neighborhoods, according to the resolution. 

With its steep cliffs and unpredictable weather conditions, the trail is highly dangerous. Any mistake can result in a helicopter rescue, although there have not been any fatalities on record. Between 2010 and 2022, more than 188 people were rescued from the hike – paid for by taxpayers. With helicopter rescues costing thousands of dollars, a bill was introduced last year to make people pay for their own rescues, but it has not passed .    

Along with deconstructing the stairs, the project also includes the restoration of native plants in impacted areas. The project will also preserve some of the structure to honor the stair’s historical significance as a World War II military access route. 

"The wonderment is still there, that's the natural beauty of the mauna (mountain) and Haiku Valley," Kiaaina said. "The stairs itself served a purpose for U.S. national security purposes and that purpose is done. Separate from what people think, I feel part of the healing is for the mauna (mountain) and for the valley itself."

The city stressed that the stairs will become even more perilous during construction and “present an immediate safety threat” to anyone who may try to sneak in a final hike. 

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .