hawaii trip itinerary 5 days

Hawaii (Big Island) Itinerary: 5 Days To See The Best Of The Island

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We get it. Not everyone has the luxury of spending weeks on end whiling away the hours in a tropical paradise. Or maybe visiting Hawaii is a once-in-a-lifetime trip for you and you want to see a few different islands. Whatever you reason, lots of travelers choose to spend just 5 days on the Big Island of Hawaii.

Even though it’s a much larger area (with slower driving) than you might expect, you’ll cover a lot of ground with this Big Island itinerary for 5 days. You’ll have a chance to experience what make the Big Island so unique and explore the best things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii! If this itinerary feels too rushed for your Hawaii vacation, feel free to spread it over more days or cut out anything that doesn’t interest you.

Read on to find out where to stay on the Big Island, what to do on Big Island for 5 days, how to get around and more.

Pssssst… don’t forget these essentials for your Hawaii packing list !

Our 2019 visit to the Big Island was actually my third trip. I’ve now visited as a geology student on a very rustic two week visit, as a business traveler at a luxury resort for a quick 5 days in Hawaii and finally as a slow-traveling family exploring on our own (and trying to visit Hawaii on a budget ). Each trip was so different, but they’ve all given me great perspective to share with you as your plan your own Big Island trip. Fortunately you really can see a ton in 5 days on Big Island!

• Quick Planning: What to book NOW for 5 days on Big Island

To avoid disappointment, extra expenses and last-minute schedule scrambled you’ll want to book as much of your Big Island trip as possible well in advance. Go through this quick checklist and get everything arranged, then you can fill in the details later.

Must read tips for renting a car in Hawaii Compare prices between RentalCars.com , Discount Hawaii Car Rental and Priceline

Accomodations

• Night 1 (optional): Hilo ( inn , hotel or house )
• Nights 1 and/or 2: Volcano ( lodge , b&b or house )
• Nights 3-5: North Kohala Coast ( luxury hotel or apartment )
• Day 3: Captain Cook snorkeling (2pm tour)
• Day 4: Mauna Kea summit tour and manta ray night snorkeling
• Day 5: Luau
• Big Island Revealed The must-have guide book for every Big Island trip
• Big Island with Kids In-depth ideas for families – written by a parent, for parents

What to pack

Getting to the big island and getting around the big island, where to stay on the big island of hawaii, the perfect big island itinerary for 5 days, plan your big island vacation.

The Big Island is served by two airports, Kona and Hilo. They’re an hour apart if you don’t hit any traffic or challenging road conditions, though the beautiful drive across the saddle took us closer to two hours in the end.

If you can manage it without extra expense, I recommend booking an open jaw flight that arrives on one side of the island and departs from the other. That’s an especially good choice if you’re spending part of your time staying in Volcano Village, as I recommend below, because it would take more than two hours to drive to the Kona airport from there.

Once you get to the Big Island you’ll definitely want a rental car. There are public buses, but they’re sparse and can be inconveniently timed. Taxis, Ubers and Lyfts can get your around Kona town and Hilo town fairly easily but will get expensive (and possibly unavailable) if you choose to go much outside of those areas – and you’ll want to. Check here to compare rental car prices across all the major brands.

Read more: 10 things to know before you rent a car in Hawaii

A quick note to those of you scouting for Big Island 1 day itinerary suggestions: Do yourself a favor and fly into Hilo. For as pleasant as the Kona side is, it’s not especially unique compared to the other Hawaiian islands. With just 1 day on the Big Island, I’d fly into Hilo, grab a picnic lunch to-go at Island Naturals and then drive straight to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

To make the most out of your visit to the Big Island and get a taste of the very distinct areas of the island, I recommend splitting your time between its two sides.

If you’re interested in a vacation rental, check out some of my top picks for cheap places to stay on the Big Island – they’re often cheaper than hotels, plus you’ll save money on food, parking and even beach gear!

Where To Stay In Hilo

If you really want to see the rainbow over Rainbow Falls, spend your first night (or two) in Hilo. There are lots of wonderful small inns and b&b’s in addition to a few big chain hotels.

Inn At Kulaniapia Orchid Tree B&B Hilo Bay Oceanfront Bed & Breakfast Bay House Bed & Breakfast Castle Hilo Hawaiian Hotel Doubletree Grand Naniloa Hotel

There are also some fantastic rental apartments in Hilo, and many of them are a real bargain. Check out these best vacation rentals in Hilo:

• Cozy Hilo studio for 2 guests
• Modern studio guesthouse for 4 guests (close to waterfalls)
• Unique 1 bedroom guesthouse (light breakfast included, walkable to restaurants)
• Beautiful (affordable) Hilo home for 10 guests

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Hilo, Hawaii

Where To Stay In Volcano Village

Since you’re only staying in Volcano for one or two nights and you’ll be very busy, I recommend choosing a place that offers breakfast; however, I’ve given some self-catering options in case that’s your preference.

Kilauea Lodge & Restaurant Aloha Junction Bed & Breakfast Laukapu Forest Lodge At The Craters Edge Guest House

There are so many great vacation rentals in Volcano Village too! Here are a few top picks to consider, all just a few minutes from the entrance to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park:

• Rainforest house for 6 guests (we stayed here and it was wonderful!)
• Treehouse for 2 guests
• Budget-friendly cottage for 4 guests

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Volcano Village, Hawaii here

Where to Stay in Waikoloa Village/North Kohala Coast

You’ll be spending three nights in Waikoloa Village or elsewhere along the North Kohala coast. Depending on your travel style, you can choose between fancy resorts, moderate hotels or even Airbnb! There are a million vacation rentals in the area.

Hilton Waikoloa Village Waikoloa Village vacation rentals Mauna Lani Villas The Islands At Mauna Lani Mauna Lani Resort Paniolo Greens Resort Westin Hapuna Beach Resort Mauna Kea Beach Hotel

Check out these wonderful places to stay in Waikoloa:

• Luxurious 3 bedroom at Mauna Lani Resort for 8 guests
• Budget-friendly villa for 5 guests
• Affordable condo for 5 guests

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Waikoloa Village, Hawaii here

Day 1 – Exploring Gardens And Waterfalls Hilo Side

Arrive at the Hilo airport and pick up your rental car to start your 5 day itinerary on Big Island. How much you can accomplish depends a lot on what time of day you arrive. I’ll assume you’re arriving fairly early in the day, but if you arrive later in the day you may need to shuffle some of these activities to a later day.

If you happen to arrive on a Wednesday or Saturday morning, take a swing by the Hilo Farmer’s Market (6am-4pm). It’s a great place to pick up fresh, local product and even locally-made crafts.

Drive 20 minutes up the coast to What’s Shakin to grab a delicious wrap or sandwich for lunch and, of course, a smoothie. Heck, grab two smoothies – they’re that good! They often have baked goods, which are delicious too.

Your first sightseeing stop is at Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden . It’s truly paradise on Earth, and our whole family loved it! The path down into the garden is fairly steep and can be slippery, but it’s paved. In total we spent about 2 hours exploring the huge range of plants, the cascading waterfalls and the secluded coastal views. As with all of the lush areas of Hawaii, bug spray never hurts.

When you’ve had your fill of the Botanical Garden (or they kick you out at 5pm), head back on the road. I won’t judge you for stopping back at What’s Shakin for another treat if they’re still open! But your destination now is Akaka Falls State Park, another 20 minutes outside of Hilo.

Want to plan the ultimate Big Island vacation? Click here for step-by-step Big Island travel planning help!

At Akaka Falls you’ll follow a paved path walking through lush vegetation until you get to the towering 400+ foot high waterfall. The walk itself isn’t long, but can get very crowded. The waterfall is thunderous, especially after a big rain!

If you still have time and energy, make a quick stop at Rainbow Falls as you head back south. It’s just a few seconds’ walk from the parking lot to the main viewing area, or you can head up the trail on the left side to catch a different view.

A word to the wise… you’ll only see the rainbows after which the falls are nicknamed if you visit early in the morning when the sun is still fairly low and behind your back as you look at the falls. If that’s important to you, I recommend staying at this inn or elsewhere in Hilo to make a quick stop first thing the next morning. That’ll also give you an opportunity to swing by the Hilo Farmer’s Market if it will be Wednesday or Saturday (it opens at 6am). If you’re ok seeing Rainbow Falls sans rainbows , after dinner proceed on to your accommodation in Volcano Village to give you a jump on tomorrow’s activities.

Grab dinner in Hilo town make sure to top it off with a healthy serving of shave ice! I recommend eating at Pineapples . While it’s not cheap, the food is very good and they often have live music.

Overnight in Hilo or Volcano

Day 2 – Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

You’ll spend a very full day today exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park – it’s the most unique aspect of your 5 day Big Island itinerary. We spent two days exploring Volcanoes National Park, but I’ll just give you the most impressive parts since I know you’re trying to cram in the best things to do with just a 5 day trip to Hawaii!

How much does Hawaii Volcanoes National Park cost? Admission is $30 per car and valid for a full week – so if you don’t see everything you want to, you can always head back first thing in the morning on day 3. The best way to save on admission to Volcanoes National Park and all of America’s other gems is by purchasing an America The Beautiful National Parks annual pass . We’ve had it three years in a row and always get our money’s worth.

Where can you see lava in Hawaii? When we last visited in June 2019, there was no active flow. At the very end of 2020, Kilauea began erupting again. You can find the current status here . It’s really important to check conditions before you plan your time. At various points over the last three years there have been closures of Thurston Lava Tube, Hōlei Sea Arch and more.

The National Park is open 24 hours per day. In theory, if you’re a really early riser and/or not adjusted to the new time zone, you can get in there when the sun comes up (or before) to start exploring.

If you’re not quite that ambitious, try to start your day around 9am when the Kīlauea Visitor Center opens. Catch the movie to give you some background about the geology of the National Park and its history. At 9:30 every morning, a park ranger gives an introductory welcome talk out front to get your oriented to the park, talk about the latest round of eruptions, review current conditions in the park and make suggestions for your itinerary if you want.

While you’re there at the Visitor Center, pick up a Junior Ranger book! These are extremely informative for adults and kids alike, and they’re completely free. You can get a sneak peek of the book here (and see the badge requirements, if you think it’s something that might be a good fit for your family).

Once you finish at the Visitors Center, I recommend heading to Chain of Craters Road. One of our favorite things to do in Volcanoes National Park was the Cinder Cone Trail hike. It’s a total of 2.5 miles roundtrip, but can take longer than you’d expect because you’re walking over uneven lava fields for much of that time!

Pick up the extremely informative guide book at the beginning of the hike ($2 cash on the honor system) and follow the loop through the lava field (as best you can) to learn so much about different types of lava and how these bizarre structures were formed. This loop at the beginning is absolutely fascinating and very manageable for nearly all visitors (though it is not flat or paved).

The second portion of the hike goes along a hard-packed trail, with solidified lava in some places, and eventually to a massive lava field and a dormant cinder cone. If you’re short on time, energy, water or snacks I won’t snitch on you for turning back at the bottom of the cinder cone; in all honesty, it was the least interesting part of the hike (though the view from the top is pretty great). But the lava field sure is fun!

If the Hōlei Sea Arch was open, I’d send you down there next – it was my second favorite activity in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. But it isn’t, so I won’t.

For those who haven’t gotten their fill of walking over lava fields or with a keen interest in Hawaiian culture, you can take the flat 1.5 mile roundtrip Petroglyphs Trail. There are some interesting ones there, and if you don’t plan to visit the ones in Waikoloa Village it’s worth visiting these. The actual walk around the petroglyphs is on a boardwalk (to protect them from human hands!) but much of the walk is over lava fields.

Since the sea arch is closed, at this point I’d head back to the main area of the National Park near the visitors center to explore some of the calderas. In case you missed my note above, you won’t see any glow . All the same, it’s impressive to see just how large these volcanic pits are! Kīlauea Iki Overlook and Keanakāko’i Crater are both interesting stops, with Keanakāko’i Crater requiring a flat 0.8 mile walk once you park the car.

The good news is that the Thurston Lava Tube reopened in late February 2020 now that it’s been deemed safe. To access it, head to stop 4 on Crater Rim Drive. Parking is very limited, but if you go around 4pm (or later) you should be able to find a spot. Lights are on in the tube from 8am to 8pm, but make sure your cell phone battery is charged in case you need to use it for extra light.

If you’re very industrious, you might consider tackling the Kīlauea Iki Trail – it takes you down into the caldera and across it to see one of the steam vents in this former lava lake. I’ve done this hike, and the beginning descent and final ascent are tough . The whole hike takes several hours and you’ll feel hot no matter what time of year it is!

Whew, that was a busy day. Treat yourself to dinner at Thai Thai in Volcano and then get some rest!

Overnight in Volcano

Day 3 – Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, Hawaii And Snorkeling On The Kona Coast

Pack up your stuff and hit the road! Now it’s to to explore one of the most unique places on the Big Island of Hawaii – Punalu’u black sand beach.

This beach is on the southern end of the Big Island and there are a few things that make it very unique. First off, the black “sand” is actual very fine lava pieces. Second, it’s one of the best place to see turtles on the Big Island.

On the day we visited, there were several loggerhead turtles relaxing on the shore and several more swimming in the shallow waters. Keep your distance, as per Hawaiian law and common sense.

Though it’s not always the case, we were lucky to encounter calm waters that were pretty good for snorkeling. The water is more turbid than you’ll find in areas like Waikoloa, but you can probably spot some turtles when you’re down there.

I recommend bringing a camera for snorkeling – it’s fun to look back on since it’s such a unique experience! We use this budget action camera ( full review here ) but if you only want the underwater feature I recommend this one . Even more important? Make sure you’re using reef-safe sunscreen to help protect the fragile coral reef ecosystem!

When you’ve had your fill of the beach and brushed the tiny bits of lava out from all the places head 15 minutes down the road to Punalu’u Bake Shop for lunch. They offer traditional Hawaiian plate lunches, sandwiches, salads, and of course their famous sweet breads of all flavors.

After lunch, hop in the car for a long drive, but with some interesting scenery. You’ll be driving along the western coast of the Big Island to the snorkeling hot spots just south of Kona.

There are a few choices for which snorkeling beach on the Big Island you should visit on this day. They each have their pros and cons, but the similarity is that the aquatic life is making its home among the cooled lava that tumbled (or exploded) into the sea. Those lava rocks can be slipper and/or jagged – during our most recent trip to the Big Island both of us adults got sliced by lava while snorkeling. So watch out!

The best places to snorkel on the Big Island on this day are:

• Kahalu’u Beach Park – Easiest access since you can just walk right in, but be mindful of the slippery lava rocks
• Two Step – Probably the best snorkeling on the island, but entry can be tough for those who aren’t sure on their feet (including little kids).
• Kealakekua Bay (Captain Cook) – Take a boat tour to get to the good snorkeling, this highly rated one departs at 2pm . You may even see spinner dolphins!

If you’re done with your snorkeling by 5pm, head to Da Poke Shack – my favorite place to eat on the Big Island! The food is incredibly fresh and the poke melts in your mouth.

Continue north to your accommodations along the Kohala Coast, either in the Waikoloa Village area or at one of the amazing beach resorts in the area. Make sure to find a great spot to watch the sunset!

One fun option is to visit the Lava Lava Beach Club adjacent to the salt-and-pepper beach of “A-Bay”. I’ll be honest that the dinner experience wasn’t amazing – it was a long wait followed by mediocre service at high prices. But the drinks are good, the location is awesome and they have a fun atmosphere for families. You can head to the adjacent lawn for mini golf, corn hole or even a rousing game of tag with other visiting families. And it’s a pretty awesome spot for sunset too.

Overnight on Kohala Coast

Day 4 – Visiting The Mauna Kea Observatory Complex And Beach Time

Since we want to show you all of the awesome unique things to do on the Big Island, we’ve gotta talk about visiting the Mauna Kea Observatory complex. I won’t say if you should or shouldn’t go, but I’ve been twice (in very different situations) and can tell you that there are many things to consider before you decided to go or how you’re going to do it.

Here are some important things to know about visiting the observatories at Mauna Kea:

• The observatories are not open to the public. Unless you’re on an “insiders’ tour” (lucky me!!!!!) you can only see the telescopes from the outside. The view from the top is still pretty cool.
• Anyone can go to the MK-VIS (Visitor Information Services) from 9am to 6pm daily. They have rangers, a movie, informational displays, daytime programs and a solar telescope. You can also head up there on your own in the evening for stargazing but it will be very cold .
• The VIS is at 9000 ft elevation. The summit, where the telescopes are located, is almost 14000 ft. Even if you plan to go to the summit, you need to stop at the VIS for a while to let your body adjust.
• It is not recommended that pregnant women or children visit the summit.
• The road to the summit is unpaved and steep. You need a 4WD and most rental car companies won’t allow you to take their cars up. The exception is Harper Car & Truck Rental .

Hope I didn’t scare you off! As I mentioned above, I’ve been twice. The first time I was with an official geology field trip that took us inside the Keck Observatory (which was truly amazing). The second time I was with a friend and we just… decided to drive to the top. We were young and invincible and didn’t heed the warnings to acclimate at the VIS. Needless to say, it was an unpleasant experience. I felt way too ill to enjoy myself!

Even without going all the way to the summit, it’s neat to head up to the VIS. You’ll understand why Mauna Kea is such a fantastic place for the observatories and about some of the cutting-edge science going on. And the views are incredible too! Just put “Mauna Kea Access Road” in your GPS and you’ll be there in a little over an hour from Waikoloa. You might want to stop at Island Gourmet Markets in the Queens Shops to pick up a picnic lunch on your way there.

If you want to go to the summit but don’t want to drive the road yourself, one of these group tours will take you there.

Once you return to sea level, it’s time to decompress and start exploring the beautiful beaches of the Kohala Coast. Remember that all of the beaches are public, it’s just a matter of finding parking that’s close enough for easy access! Here are a few to consider:

Best Beaches On The Kohala Coast

• Hapuna Beach – One of the best beaches in America, with gorgeous soft white sand, plenty of parking and public facilities… and tons of people. No shade on the beach, only at the picnic pavilions above.
• Beach 69 – Great snorkeling, plenty of shade, not as busy as Hapuna Beach. Sand isn’t as nice year-round.
• Mauna Kea Beach – Not generally crowded because it’s only hotel guests and those who park in the small public lot. If you aren’t staying there, tell the guard and the entrance kiosk that you want to go to the beach. Bring your own shade if you aren’t staying at the resort. Nice, easy snorkeling on the south end of the bay; even better but a little rougher as you go further out.
• Mauna Lani Beach – There are two areas of beach at the newly-reopened Mauna Lani: the one closest to the hotel and a tiny one further south by the condos. The tiny one is where I learned to snorkel 15 years ago! It’s extremely shallow and calm, and the minute you walk in it’s like you’re floating in a saltwater aquarium of tropical fish. It’s a small area so it can be very crowded with people staying in the condos, but it’s a great place for little kids and first-time snorkelers.

Head 5-10 minutes further north to Kohala Burger & Taco for dinner (these days they close at 5:30pm). They have excellent burgers, fish tacos and fries at reasonable prices.

After dinner, hop right next door to Anuenue Ice Cream & Shave Ice . Normally I’d say “you’re in Hawaii, get the shave ice!” But in this case, the ice cream gets my vote. Their Kona mud pie and caramel mac nut are amazing !!! Don’t just take my word for it, go taste for yourself.

Head over to the Mauna Kea Hotel after your early dinner to watch the sunset and wait for the next show… manta rays! There are two ways to see the manta rays that like to congregate in the bay in front of the Mauna Kea Hotel. If you’re done being in the water for the day, throw on a sweatshirt and walk over to “Manta Ray Point” where the hotel shines a floodlight in the water to attract these massive, graceful creatures.

If you’re feeling more adventurous and don’t mind being wet at night, you can schedule either snorkeling with the manta rays ! The boat guides will bring flood lights with them to attract the rays and make it easier for guests to see them. This particular operator takes you out in a traditional double-hull canoe and you can safely hold on to the lines between the hulls while you float and watch rays swim beneath you.

Day 5 – Culture, Beach Time & Snorkeling On The Big Island

For the final day of your Hawaii itinerary of 5 days, try to get at least a little bit of culture. If you’re staying in Waikoloa Village and don’t want to go far, you can take a great little walk through Waikoloa Petroglyph Preserve just behind… the gas station. Scenic location, eh? But it’s a neat little spot and there’s very good signage to provide information about what you’re seeing.

If you’re willing to venture a little further, there are three National Parks on this side of the island (plus Hawaii Volcanoes, which you’ve already visited). Consider checking out one of these:

Hawaii Big Island National Parks:

• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
• Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historic Park – Ancient “place of refuge” for Hawaiians who broke their community’s laws and fled. You’ll see archeological dig sites, impressive carved statues, a royal fish pond and a recreated temple. It’s very close to the Two Step and Captain Cook snorkeling spots.
• Kaloko-Honokohau National Historic Park – Preserves an ancient settlement, with the platforms of several buildings remaining. On weekends there are cultural programs in the morning. In between the Kona airport and Kona town.
• Pu’ukohala Heiau National Historic Park – Great opportunity to see an ancient Hawaiian temple built for royalty. In the winter, park rangers run a humpback whale watching program ever Friday from 9am to noon. Just north of Mauna Kea.

Grab some lunch then enjoy some r&r in the afternoon at the beach of your choice! Try a different snorkeling beach in the Kona area or another pristine white sand beach in the Kohala area. But you’ve adventured hard on this vacation, so it’s time to take a much-deserved break.

Head back to your hotel and clean up, and maybe put on something a little nice, because you’re closing out your Big Island vacation itinerary with a bang. The Legends of Hawaii luau at Hilton Waikoloa Village is truly a fantastic night. We’ve been to numerous luau and this was one of our favorites – as we left, our son declared it the best night of his life!

The food was really excellent, the entertainment was top-notch and (unlike so many hotel luaus) the organization was great. Our kids loved that they were all invited to sit on pillows right in front of the stage to have an amazing view – it’s a great way to keep the kids engaged through a long show. I’ve heard that it’s the best Big Island luau and I believe it!

Day 6 – Depart From Kona Airport

Whew! You made it through a busy 5 days on the Big Island. Hopefully you feel at least a little rested. Once you’ve packed your bags, it’s time to head down to Kona for your flight.

But give yourself a little extra time for one last taste of island life. If you need a great meal, stop at Umekes Fish Market Bar & Grill . They have a variety of poke and cooked fish options to fill every belly. From Umekes it’s a quick 15 minute drive to the Kona airport and you’ll be on your way – or double your fun by sneaking in one last shave ice at One Aloha Shave Ice Co . Shhhhhhh… we won’t tell .

I hope this guide has give you a flavor for the many amazing adventures that await you on the Big Island of Hawaii! You may not be able to squeeze everything in, but that’ll just be more reason to plan another visit. Aloha!

Need more planning help for your Big Island 5 day itinerary? This is the best Big Island guide book money can buy! We love it. Be sure to pick up a copy and bring it with you on your trip.

Don’t miss these articles about visiting Hawaii:

See all of our Hawaii travel planning resources in one place Travel planning resources: Compare rental car prices for Hawaii Buy a top-rated travel insurance policy 5 simple money-saving tips for booking.com General Hawaii resources: How to visit Hawaii on a budget Renting a car in Hawaii: 10 things you NEED to know What to pack for Hawaii Is a cheap GoPro knock-off worth it? Hawaii with kids: What’s the best Hawaiian island for families? Is it worth visiting Hawaii with a baby? Ultimate packing list for Hawaii with kids Top 10 things to do with kids on Oahu The best snorkel gear for kids of all ages Oahu resources: Best Oahu travel guide book Perfect 7 day Oahu itinerary Where to stay on Oahu Family-friendly Oahu vacation rentals Cheap Places To Stay On Oahu 10 Fun Things to do on Oahu for $10 or less Getting the most bang for your buck on your Go Oahu discount card Insider tips for visiting the Polynesian Cultural Center The best beaches on Oahu (and why to visit them) Where to find the best shave ice on Oahu The best easy hikes on Oahu North Shore Oahu complete visitors guide Kayaking to the Mokes with Twogood Kayaks Family-friendly kayaking with Holokai Adventures Visiting Pearl Harbor Maui resources: Best Maui travel guide book Perfect 3 day Maui itinerary Cheap Places To Stay On Maui Big Island resources: Best Big Island travel guide book Perfect 5 day Big Island itinerary Cheap Places To Stay On the Big Island Kauai resources: Best Kauai travel guide book Perfect 3 day Kauai itinerary Cheap Places To Stay On Kauai

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The Ultimate Full-Circle 5 Day Big Island Itinerary

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The youngest and biggest of the Hawaiian islands , Hawaii (AKA the Big Island) has such a wide variety of things to do, see, and experience. As you’ll find in this 5 day Big Island Itinerary, it’s easy to want to spend 10 days in Hawaii or more just to take it all in! 

Home to five volcanoes, the Big Island of Hawaii can easily grow at a rate of 10 acres or more per day when lava is flowing. Over the centuries, all that new earth has created other-worldly landscapes, dense volcanic rainforests, multi-colored beaches, and geothermal steam vents you can explore during your visit to the Big Island. 

I consider the Big Island to be one of the best islands for nature, adventure, and geology lovers! 

This 5 day Big Island itinerary is perfect for adventurous explorers and those looking to leave the resort and see everything Hawaii has to offer. You’ll have the opportunity to do some road tripping, see waterfalls, visit a black sand beach, sample Kona coffee, and swim with marine life (if you’re feeling brave!). 

Let’s get into it! 

P.S. Already have your Big Island itinerary, and just looking for some more things to do? Queue up my Things to Do on the Big Island guide next!

P.P.S. Have more time to spend, and looking for a 7 day Big Island itinerary (or longer) instead? Keep scrolling and you’ll find my top suggestions for extending your trip. This 5 day Hawaiian itinerary has just a quick detour in Hilo. But, I recommend spending at least a night or two here if you have more time!

RELATED: 20+ Of the Very Best Things to Do on the Big Island

DAY ONE: Big Island West Coast Exploration

Your Big Island adventure starts before you even get off the plane. As you descend into the Big Island Airport located in Kailua-Kona (Kona for short), look out your window and you’ll see miles and miles of hardened black lava. The Kona coast is mostly made up of newly formed earth. In fact, the Kona International Airport (KOA) was built directly on top of a large hardened lava flow. 

There are five major volcanoes on the Big Island – Kohala, Mauna Kea, Hualalai, Mauna Loa, and Kilauea. Kona is ‘guarded’ by the active Hualalai volcano, which is largely responsible for the rich soil that makes Kona coffee!

For the first few nights of your Big Island itinerary, I recommend staying in Kona or the Kohala coast. The Big Island is generally very chill and laidback compared to Oahu and Maui , but the west side will no doubt give you the highest concentration of restaurants and bars.

Lava Field Viewing in Kona

These other-worldly landscapes are a key feature of the Kona coast.

In Hawaiian culture, it’s said that the goddess of fire, Pele, settled here on the Big Island after creating the rest of the Hawaiian island chain. Her spiritual presence is meant to explain why the Big Island is home to some of the most consistently active volcanic activity in the world! 

The legend goes that if you take lava rock (or black sand) from Hawaii as a souvenir, Pele will bring you years of bad luck. Whether or not you agree in Hawaiian beliefs, know that Hawaii actually receives hundreds of returned lava rocks in the mail each year from past visitors who’ve experienced horrible luck. You’ve been warned! 

Once you pick up your rental car in Kona , you’ll begin to see old lava fields unfold for miles and miles. There are some turnouts along the road that allow you to stop and get a closer look.

Admire + Hike Pololu Valley Vistas

I recommend starting your 5 day Big Island itinerary by driving to Pololu Valley (1.5 hours from Kona). Carved by now-extinct Kohala volcano eruptions, the Pololu Valley is one of seven lush valleys that were once home to a large ancient Hawaiian population. 

Start by visiting the Pololu Valley Lookout for stunning views of the region. Then, hike down Pololu Trail , a rocky 0.9 trail leading to a spectacular black sand beach – your first black sand beach on this Big Island adventure! 

Visit Historic Hawi Town

Just 20 minutes from Pololu Valley, you’ll find historic Hawi Town. This region is where King Kamehameha I, the Hawaiian monarch that unified the Hawaiian islands, was born. 

From thriving ancient Hawaiian civilization, to sugar cane plantation, to present-day artsy, hipster town, Hawi is a popular place for both locals and visitors to explore. 

Window shop through Hawi’s boutiques and be sure to grab a quick bite, because you’ve got one more epic Big Island adventure in store. You’re going to need your energy! For food, I recommend Kohala Coffee Mill , Bamboo Restaurant , or Roots Alchemy .

Just plan to leave Hawi no later than 5 pm so you can make it back to Kona by 6:30!

Night Swim with Manta Rays in Kona

You’ll want to arrive in Keauhou Bay just before sunset. And, I promise, this is the only real “structured” evening of this 5 day Big Island itinerary.

Why? Tonight, you’re swimming with manta rays! 

Manta rays were not previously endemic to the Kona coast. But in a weird evolutionary shift, they adopted Keauhou Bay as their home within the last 50ish years. Today, more than 100 manta rays live in the area.

How did this happen? Well, back in the 70s, the former Sheraton Kona Resort (now an Outrigger property) began illuminating the waves so guests could admire the ocean at night. These lights attracted higher levels of plankton, drawing manta rays closer to shore. Today, these gentle giants continue to associate light with food. 

There are several Big Island manta ray tours you can take, but I recommend Anelakai Adventures . The company is locally owned by Big Island couple Holly and Iko (Anelakai is their daughter’s name!), who founded Anelakai Adventures to share their love of the ocean and Hawaiian culture with the world. 

Instead of hopping on a motorized catamaran, you’ll board a double-hull canoe for a leisurely 10-minute paddle out to the manta ray viewing site.

Thanks to using manpower instead of motors, and taking small groups of roughly 6 passengers (instead of the 20+ you’ll see on other tours), Anelakai Adventures offers a truly eco-friendly way of witnessing these incredible creatures up close. 

If the idea of swimming with manta rays makes you anxious, rest assured these beauties have no barbs or stingers! You’ll even be provided special ankle floaties so you can float easily at the surface of the ocean, with no risk of accidentally kicking the mantas as they swim up to you. Like with all Hawaiian marine life, it’s not allowed to intentionally reach out and touch them yourself.

There is no doubt in my mind about this. Swimming with manta rays is the absolute best thing to do in Kona. See reviews here and book your experience in advance using this link .

DAY TWO: Kona Water Adventures

On day two of your 5 day Big Island itinerary, you might find yourself still reeling from last night’s magical manta ray encounter. 

So, we’ll get back out on the water for a morning filled with more ocean exploration! 

Afterwards, take it easy and explore Kona’s coffee culture and the downtown Kona nightlife scene. This will be your only full day in Kona, so enjoy! 

Best Water Activities in Kona

For my active adventurers, I recommend taking an ocean tour of Kona so you can snorkel, paddle, or swim through some of Kona’s best reefs and historic sites with a local guide.

For those looking for a more relaxing day, head to one of Kona’s beaches to spend the day soaking up the sun. I’ve listed recommendations for both active and laidback days below!

Snorkeling South Kona – Pu’uhonua O Honaunau (Two Step) and Kealakekua Bay

Kona is home to phenomenal snorkeling sites that are easily some of the best in the Hawaiian islands.

Pu’uhonua O Honaunau / Honaunau Bay , which translates to Place of Refuge, is a fantastic place to visit both in and out of the ocean. In ancient Hawaii, if you broke kapu (the law), you could come to places of refuge like this to escape persecution and seek safety.

Kealakekua Bay is another historically significant spot with a beautiful coral reef. Here, you’ll find the controversial Captain Cook Monument (marking the spot where Cook was killed for trying to overtake the king). Next to the monument lies the ancient ruins of Ka’awaloa, a symbol of pre-outside-contact Hawaii. 

Take a South Kona Expedition tour with SeaQuest Hawaii to snorkel in both of these fascinating spots. You’ll see a side of the Southern coast of the Big Island that few visitors ever get to see!

See reviews here and book your experience in advance using this link .

PRO TIP: I do not recommend renting kayaks to reach Kealakekua Bay on your own. While it isn’t illegal to do so, there are strict rules in place to help protect the shallow reef. Too many kayakers unfortunately arrive uninformed and cause accidental damage to the natural environment.

Go with a guided, sustainable tourism-certified tour, like this one, or the one below. 

Kayaking and Canoe Rides at Kamakahonu Bay

Kamakahonu is the historic residence of King Kamehameha I. Here, in Kamakahonu Bay, you’ll find beautiful blue water, great snorkeling opportunities, and a perfect view of the Kailua-Kona area from out at sea.

To best explore this area, rent snorkeling gear, take a guided kayaking tour, or paddle out on a canoe ( wa’a ) ride with Kona Boys. You’ll find their Kamakahonu Bay beach shack located just steps from the water.

The boys at Kona Boys are all about the Hawaiian tradition of “talk story.” To ‘talk story’ means to story-tell, which was long how Hawaiians passed down their history and traditions. Today, the Kona Boys use the idea of talk story to be good hosts and help guests gain a deeper appreciation of Kona while doing something active and healthy. What I love about Kona Boys is that, though the owners are Hawaii transplants, they have such a deep understanding and respect for Hawaii and its culture and strive to honor that in every tour they offer.

See reviews here and book any of their tours using this link .

Best Kona Beaches

If you prefer a more relaxing day, Kona is home to some amazing beaches. Here are some of the best Kona beaches for a day of chill. 

• Kuki’o Beach
• Kekaha Kai State Park (4wd / jeep rental recommended) – includes Mahai’ula Beach, Makalawena Beach, and Manini’owali Beach 
• Kamakahonu Beach
• Kahalu’u Beach Park
• Ho’okena Beach Park 
• Magic Sands

Visit Holualoa for Kona Coffee

Located smack in the middle of Kona’s Coffee Belt, Holualoa is a hub for Hawaiian coffee and art appreciation.

Here, you can visit a coffee plantation, like Mauka Meadows , Hula Daddy Kona Coffee , or Holualoa Kona Coffee Company , and explore the art galleries!

Wander Around Downtown Kona

While Hilo is the Big Island’s capital city, downtown Kona is a popular hotspot for visitors and locals. In fact, this area has attracted people to it for centuries. Hawaiian ali’i like King Kalakaua and Queen Kapiolani built their summer house here in the 1800s because they loved it so much! Today, Hulihe’e Palace (their summer home) is a museum you can visit.

Kona may feel like a little town, but it packs a punch in terms of things to do. 

Some Things to Do in Downtown Kona:

• Sample more Kona coffee at Kona Coffee & Tea , or HiCO
• Cruise along Ali’i Drive for shops, restaurants, and ocean views
• Grab a pint and a bite at the famous Kona Brewing Co
• Grab a seltzer (or hard tea) and a bite at Ola Brew . I love this company because they are on a mission to boost Hawaii’s agricultural economy and create a local product by the people, for the people. While they have beer too, their seltzers are my go-to whenever I am in Hawaii!
• Go shopping at Kona Banyan Court
• Check out the Kona Farmers Market

DAY THREE: Chasing Waterfalls Through Hilo

Now that you’ve spent a couple days exploring the Kona coast, it’s time to hit the road and see the rest of the Big Island!

The capital of the Big Island, Hilo, is a major contrast to Kona’s vast, lava bed expanse. Located just an hour and a half from Kona on the island’s wetter windward coast, you’ll get to see the island’s landscapes change before you from black to vibrant green. 

Stop at a couple waterfalls along the way before arriving in Hilo for a late breakfast!

Best Waterfalls Near Hilo

The natural beauty near Hilo is one of the many draws of making the drive. Outside of Hilo, you’ll drive past acres of farmland, tropical rainforest, and coastline. Be sure to stop by these easy-access waterfalls on your drive to Hilo:

• Akaka Falls : A 442-foot waterfall, Akaka Falls can be found in Akaka Falls State Park. Here, you’ll take the stunningly scenic 0.4-mile Akaka Falls Loop (takes about 30 minutes) to a viewpoint for the waterfall. Parking costs $10 and entrance costs $5 per person for non-resident visitors. 
• Kahuna Falls : Best visible after heavy rain, you might be able to catch a glimpse of Kahuna Falls from a lookout point on the Akaka Falls Loop. 
• Waianuenue (Rainbow) Falls : This massive 80-foot waterfall can be found within Hilo town itself. If you come in the morning there’s a chance you’ll catch a rainbow refracting from the mighty falls’ mist. 
• Pe’epe’e Falls : 1.5 miles upstream from Rainbow Falls, this often uncrowded waterfall is smaller but equally impressive.

Morning Exploration in Hilo Town

If you left Kona early, you might make it to Hilo just in time for a late breakfast. Grab a bite at Paul’s Place , The Booch Bar , Sweet Cane Cafe , Hawaiian Style Cafe Hilo , or Short N Sweet Bakery & Cafe . 

Stroll the local shops and visit the Liliuokalani Gardens before continuing on to the town of Volcano! 

Spend the Night in Volcano Village

One of my favorite areas on the Big Island, Volcano Village is located just outside of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Here, you’ll be spending the night before a full day of national park exploration.

Volcano is a small town with just over 3,500 residents. It’s often referred to as a hub for artists, scientists, geologists, and nature enthusiasts. Look around and you might notice native Ohia, Hapu’u, and gorgeous (but invasive) Kahili ginger. The way the rainforest hugs the mostly-dirt roads here makes you feel as if you’ve discovered something truly special.

If you’ve arrived in the late afternoon, swing by Volcano Winery – the southernmost winery in the United States. A small winery with affordable tastings, this winery makes local wines infused with volcanic soil and tropical fruits. A bit sweet for my liking, personally, but well worth the stop nonetheless.

DAY FOUR: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Wake up early today if you can. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park offers so much to see, you’re not gonna want to miss out! 

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is home to two active volcanoes – Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Spanning 523 square miles, this national park is just about the size of the entire island of Oahu! To enter this national park, you’ll need to pay $30 per vehicle.

Better yet, I recommend getting an America the Beautiful Pass which gets you access to all US national parks for a year. Get your America the Beautiful National Parks Pass here .

I remember being lucky enough to see the warm glow of lava steaming in the distance when I visited as a child. On my most recent visit in 2021, I wasn’t as lucky. Little did I know, Kilauea would erupt again just three short weeks after I left. Crazy! 

While you might be lucky enough to see fresh lava on your visit, know that this isn’t a guarantee. Nevertheless, you’ll have tons to do regardless!

Itinerary for One Day in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

If you only have one day in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, here’s the itinerary I suggest:

• Grab a morning coffee at the Volcano House , and enjoy unrivaled views of the Halema’uma’u Crater
• Hike the 3-mi (moderate) Kilauea Iki Trail  
• Walk through the Nahuku – Thurston Lava Tube  
• Drive down to the the Pu’u Loa Petroglyphs (a bit out of the way, but well worth the 30-min drive and 1.2-mi out-and-back walk. Some of the best-preserved petroglyphs I’ve ever seen in Hawaii!)
• If you have time, swing by the Steam Vents on your way out of the park. Like seeing a fire without flames, this unique geological phenomenon is super cool to witness right around sunset if you can time it right!

A Quick Note on Visiting Hawaii’s National Parks Responsibly

The volcanoes area of the Big Island has long been a culturally significant space for Hawaiians.

In fact, the park is filled with many well-preserved archeological sites that Hawaiian people consider wahi kapu (sacred place) to this day. One of those places is the Pu’u Loa Petroglyphs, which is a sacred site where families with genealogical ties to the land may come to bury the umbilical cords of their children. The belief is that the mana (spiritual energy) of this place will give their children a long and successful life. When you go, look out for small circular petroglyphs of this ceremony performed over generations!

Like with any national park, but especially in Hawaii, tread lightly, follow posted signage, and leave no trace. 

Also, drive carefully on roads in, and around, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park! Many native and endangered species call this area home, and tourists have occasionally been blasted on the news for accidentally running over these animals – namely, the nene (Hawaii’s state bird).

DAY FIVE: Black Sand Beach and Captain Cook

On your last day of this 5 day Big Island itinerary, wake up to one more calm, beautiful morning in Volcano. Today, I recommend driving down towards the sea-level region of Volcanoes National Park on your way back to Kona. 

Along the way, you’ll visit a famous black sand beach and grab some Hawaii-style tacos before saying aloha to this Big Island adventure.

Punalu’u Black Sand Beach

Thanks to the sands’ ultra-dark hue, Punalu’u Black Sand Beach is one of the most famous black sand beaches in the entire Hawaiian island chain. I gotta say, after seeing this beach in person, I can see why it’s a must-visit! 

While I do not recommend swimming here (it’s very rocky and the conditions are a bit rough) it’s a beautiful volcanic beach to stop at. Bring a book and a breakfast picnic and lay out underneath the coconut palms! Oh – and try to come early if you can. That black sand can get very hot. 

You may occasionally see a honu (Hawaiian sea turtle) sleeping on the sand. If you do, please admire from a distance as these little guys are fiercely protected by the state. 

When you’re done with the beach, hop back in your car and make the 2-hour drive to Kona. For a quick bite along the way, be sure to stop in at Shaka Tacoz in Captain Cook. Killer views of the south Kona coastline and fresh fish tacos and burritos? Need I say more? 

Other Things to Do in Captain Cook:

• Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park : If you didn’t visit for snorkeling on day two, now might be a good time to pay this national historical park a visit!
• Kona Coffee Farms : If you didn’t satisfy your coffee fix throughout this 5 day Big Island itinerary, Captain Cook has a host of Kona coffee farms you can visit. Take a tour, sample some brews, or buy some beans to take back home with you at Kuaiwi Farm , Rooster Farm , Sacred Grounds , or Kona Coffee Living Historic Farm .

Other Things to Do if You Have More Time

Have more time to spend on the Big Island? These suggestions might not fit in a 5 day Big Island itinerary, but they’re great add-ons for those planning a week or more!

• Head to the Waipi’o Valley Overlook : About an hour east of the Pololu Valley you visited on day one, Waipi’o Valley was once home to King Kamehameha I (therefore, it’s also known as The Valley of Kings). You can view the breathtaking Waipi’o Valley from the Waipi’o Valley Overlook . Or, take a guided tour to head down into the valley for deeper exploration. 
• Take a Stargazing Tour of Mauna Kea : One of five Big Island volcanoes, Mauna Kea happens to be the tallest point in the state of Hawaii. This dormant volcano is one of the most popular places in the world for stargazing. Consider booking a tour to see this impressive sight for yourself. Be sure to bring lots of water to help reduce the likelihood of altitude sickness – you’ll be going from sea level to 14,000 feet. 
• Try a Surfing Class : What’s a trip to Hawaii without trying your hand at hanging ten? While this 5 day Big Island itinerary didn’t include surfing, I recommend taking a lesson if you have time. Try Kahalu’u Surf and Sea or Kona Mike’s Surf Adventures . 
• Go to a Luau : In Hawaiian culture, luau are big gatherings to commemorate special occasions and to welcome visitors. Though pricey, attending a luau is considered as a ‘must’ for first-time Hawaii visitors , and generally comes with an evening of entertainment, tons of local Hawaiian food, and drinks. Check out the Voyagers of the Pacific Luau , the Island Breeze Luau , or the Sunset Luau , and be sure to book in advance. 
• Take a Helicopter Tour : One of the best perspectives of any Hawaiian island is from up high. While helicopter tours in the Big Island are pretty expensive, they’re well worth the experience if you can swing it. And, they’re especially worth it if you happen to be on the island during an eruption. I like Mauna Loa Helicopters , and while I haven’t taken a Big Island Tour yet, I have on both Maui and Oahu.
• Volunteer and Give Back to the Big Island : Spending the morning volunteering on the Big Island is a great way to give back to your favorite vacation destination. Some suggestions to malama (‘care for’) the Big Island include planting native trees with the Hawaii Legacy Forest Initiative , learning about conservation with the Waikoloa Dry Forest Initiative , or doing a self-initiated beach clean-up. Some hotels will even provide you with clean-up kits so you can DIY!

Where to Stay During your Big Island Itinerary

Wondering which side of the Big Island is best to stay? Unlike other Hawaiian islands, where you stay on the Big Island matters a bit more… because it’s pretty massive!

You’ll find the highest concentration of hotels and resorts on the Kona and Kohala coasts. But, you’ll find more scenic adventures and attractions near Hilo and Volcano. Because of this, I suggest dividing your trip between the west side and the east side, like you’ll do if you follow this itinerary.

• Hilton Waikoloa Village (Waikoloa): This massive property reminds me so much of my childhood because it’s where my parents and I liked to stay when we came to visit. You’ll find tons of shopping, dining options, and golf here.
• Holualoa Inn (Holualoa): This romantic bed and breakfast is ideal for couples, and combines Old Hawaii charm with modern amenities and service. I haven’t stayed here yet, but it’s at the top of my list when I return to the Big Island!
• Mauna Lani (Waimea): This recently renovated property on the Kohala coast has modern rooms (most with ocean views), multiple pools, and reportedly great service that people rave about.
• Mauna Kea Beach Hotel (Waimea): I’m partial to Autograph Collection hotels and the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel is one of them! While I haven’t stayed here personally, I’ve heard good things and do know that this hotel has a sustainability commitment that includes reef conservation. Win-win.
• Volcano House (Volcano): Some may say that the Volcano House’s rooms are quaint or outdated, but to stay in this hotel is to stay in a place with rich history. Also, if you love volcanoes, you can’t get much closer than the Volcano House. This hotel is located inside the national park.
• Volcano Village Lodge (Volcano): A highly rated bed and breakfast located in the beautiful Volcano Village.
• Grand Naniloa Hotel (Hilo): A Hilton DoubleTree property in Hilo, this waterfront hotel is popular for both couples and families with kids.
• Other Hotel Options in the Big Island (Click Here)
• Big Island Airbnbs (Click Here)

PRO TIP:  Some Big Island hotels will give you a discount or a free night’s stay just for volunteering! It’s part of Hawaii’s Malama Hawaii initiative, which you can get involved with during your 5 day Big Island itinerary.

See all volunteering options and participating hotels here.

Where to Eat and Drink on the Big Island

This 5 day Big Island itinerary wouldn’t be complete without talking about where to eat and drink on the Big Island. Here are places that I’ve either tried, or that are on my list for my next visit.

• Ola Brewing 
• Kona Brewing Company
• 808 Grindz Cafe
• Fosters Kitchen
• Da Poke Shack
• Shaka Tacoz
• Kohala Coffee Mill
• Bamboo Restaurant
• Roots Alchemy
• Paul’s Place
• Sweet Cane Cafe
• Hawaiian Style Cafe Hilo
• Short N Sweet Bakery Cafe
• Punalu’u Bakery
• Volcano Winery
• Koana Coffee

Other Tips to Know Before You Go

• Currency : The Hawaiian islands use the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but carry spare cash for food trucks, tipping at hotels, etc.
• Language : Hawaii is the only state with two official languages: English and Hawaiian. However, English is the language you’ll use to chat, get around, and read on street signs. You’ll also hear a third ‘language,’ called Pidgin, which is a sort of English creole formed over the past two centuries as various generations of immigrants began coexisting here. Today, it all blends together into a unique version of colloquial English you won’t hear anywhere else 
• Renting a Car on the Big Island : Use Kayak to compare rental car rates or Turo to find peer-to-peer car rentals. At the time of writing this post, Hui , a locally owned peer car rental company, is only available in Oahu, unfortunately.
• Renting a Camper or RV : Use RVshare to look up Hawaii RVs, camper vans, and the occasional rooftop tent. This option is perfect if you plan on spending a night camping on the beach or at Volcanoes National Park. 
• Rideshare on the Big Island : Uber and Lyft are both easily accessible on the Big Island. Another contender is locally-owned Holoholo , which functions the same way as the other rideshare apps you’re already used to.
• Public Transportation on the Big Island: The public bus system, called Hele-On Bus, is a generally reliable and inexpensive way to explore the island. The Hele-On Bus services East, West, and North Big Island. 
• Bike : There are lots of bike rental providers on the Big Island, whether you’re looking for a leisurely ride or to cruise around Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Check out Bike Works Kona , Big Island Bike Tours , or Bike Works Beach and Sports . 
• When is the Best Time to Visit the Big Island? Because of the Big Island’s ideal climate, there is no “bad” time to visit the Big Island. In general, peak season for Big Island travel is from June to November. So, if you want to avoid the crowds during your 5 day Big Island itinerary, go in the winter or spring. For whale watching, you’ll want to plan your trip between late November and April.
• Etiquette for First-Time Visitors : To avoid any unfortunate travel bloops, be sure to check out my Hawaii trip planning guide next. This breaks down everything you’ll want to know before you go to Hawaii! Safe travels!

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Read this next:.

• How to Plan a Trip to Hawaii: Everything You Need to Know
• 20+ Of the Very Best Things to Do on the Big Island
• The Ultimate 5 Day Oahu Itinerary
• 20+ Of the Very Best Things to Do on 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
• An Adventure-Packed 5-Day Maui Itinerary
• My Review of Camp Olowalu: Glamping in Maui
• A 5 Day Kaua’i Itinerary for Outdoor Lovers
• 20+ Of the Very Best Things to Do on Kaua’i

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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: February 20, 2022

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Best 5 Day Oahu Itinerary

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Whether it’s your first time to Oahu or your tenth, visiting this Hawaiian island is special. We know, we’ve vacationed there and lived there, and love going back time and again. 

After living on Oahu for two years, we developed the perfect itinerary for our friends and family who would come out to visit. It mixes adventure, culture, and just the right amount of downtime. 

Plus, there are plenty of swaps that you can make if you just need a little more time at the beach or the pool.

Here’s the best five-day itinerary for your Oahu vacation:

Day 1: Welcome to Waikiki

• Day 2: Morning Hike and Town (South Side)
• Day 3: History and the Windward Side
• Day 4: Exploring North Shore

Day 5: Stand Up Paddle, Haleiwa, and a Perfect Sunset

We recently tested this five-day itinerary with our 22-month-old son in tow. We all loved it!

Want a trip to Oahu with everything carefully planned so you see the best sights, visit the best beaches, head out on the best activities, and eat at the best restaurants? We’ve got you covered with our full Oahu itinerary .

Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary

Get the oahu itinerary.

The step-by-step itinerary takes you to all the best beaches, snorkeling spots, restaurants, and sights. You’ll get six carefully planned excursion days to help you see the can’t miss stops no matter how limited your time is.

Get all the details on our itinerary and download it for a memorable and easily planned trip to Oahu.

Aloha! Welcome to Oahu. By now you’ve stepped off the plane into the open-air airport and you’re smelling the flowers that fill the air. 

But before you hit vacation mode, you have a little more to do. For this itinerary, you’ll want a car. So head over to the rental car counter to pick up your car. And have patience, you’re on island time now. Those lines move a lot slower than they do on the mainland.

Pro-tip: Have a lot of luggage or kids that you don’t want to put on a rental car shuttle? Book with Advantage, Avis, Enterprise, Hertz, or National. These rental car agencies have a desk right at the airport. And by using Discount Hawaii Car Rental you can get the best price on the island. 

Seriously, using Discount Hawaii Car Rental saved us over $300 on our trip to the Big Island and $60 on our trip to Oahu. That’s a lot of Mai Tais. 

Now that you have your car, head southeast to Waikiki. Depending on the time of day you may hit some traffic, but once you drop off your car at the hotel, you won’t be using it for the rest of the day. 

Related article: 

• Where to Stay on Oahu with Kids
• 40 Things to Do Around Oahu

Once you’re settled in, it’s time to take in the sights of Waikiki. Take a walk from your hotel and explore Waikiki by foot. It’s only 1.5 miles long and two to three-blocks deep, so you can see everything you need to without a car. If you’re tired, don’t worry, there is a trolley or hop on hop off bus tour you can take.  

Before you set out on your walk, read this article about why Waikiki is famous . It’ll give you the background to appreciate everything that you see; from the Duke Kahanamoku statue to the eight beautiful Waikiki beaches. 

After a day of travel, we recommend unwinding with drinks and music at the Moana Surfrider Hotel — the first hotel in Waikiki that was opened in 1901. It’ll put you in the right Hawaiian spirit and it can almost make you feel like you’re back in 1960’s Hawaii, when the Moana was the choice location for celebrities. 

Most restaurants in Waikiki require a reservation (or you have to endure a long wait). If you don’t have anything booked for the evening and you don’t feel like waiting, head to The Street Food Hall by Michael Mina at the International Marketplace . You’ll find great food at a good price in a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a great way to end a long day of travel.  

Day 2: Morning Hike and Southeast Road Trip

Odds are you’re going to wake up very early this morning thanks to jet-lag, so let’s make the most of it. 

Grab a coffee and light breakfast from Honolulu Coffee Company at the Moana Surfrider Hotel . You’ll need a bite to eat since your morning is going to start with a hike up a 300,000-year-old volcanic crater. 

  Hop in your car and head to Diamond Head, Hawaii’s most popular state park . 

If you get there early enough, you’ll be able to find a spot in the parking lot. Bring cash: it’s $5 per car to park or $1 per person to walk in. The hike is 1.6-miles and fairly steep, taking you up the side of the crater so you can get some fantastic views. 

Want to see it all without endless internet research? Our Oahu itinerary and guide gives you everything you need to know to plan your dream vacation with just one click. Check it out here . 

Once you’ve taken in the beautiful views and you’re done with your hike, you have two options.

• You can head back to Waikiki and spend the rest of the day on the beach
• You can hop in your car and head south. 

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1. Back to Waikiki

If you decide to head back to Waikiki, grab a plate lunch at the local spot Rainbow Drive-In first.

Once you’re back in Waikiki there are plenty of activities to do if you don’t want to lay around the pool or beach. Head to the Duke Paoa Kahanamoku Statue and check out the stand-up paddle, kayak or surfboard rental options. 

2. Venturing Further South

If you decide to take a driving tour of the southeast coast of Oahu, you’ll follow these stops:

• Lanai Lookout: Enjoy the beautiful, crashing waves and try to catch a glimpse of the Hawaiian island of Lanai  from this spot on a clear day . There’s plenty of parking, which makes this an easy first stop after your hike. 
• Halona Blowhole and Halona Cove (Cockroach Beach) : If you have yet to see a blowhole, this is worth a stop. It’s a short trip from Lanai Lookout. After the blowhole, you can also visit the beach in Halona Cove, with it’s turquoise blue waters.
• Sandy Beach: If you skipped Halona Cove and you want to admire (but not swim) a beautiful beach, make a stop at Sandy Beach. The beach is at the base of Koko crater and is beautiful. But stay out of the water — the dangerous shore break  makes it a place you won’t want to swim. This is a famous bodyboarding beach so check out the action.
• Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail: I know, another hike. But this one is a 2-mile round trip walk on a paved path and we like this hike even more than Diamond Head. The views from the path are outstanding. And during whale season you’ll often see whales from the trail. If you’re in the area, walking this trail is a must.
• Waimanalo Beach: The last stop for the day is Waimanalo beach. Cool off with a swim here after your Makapu’u Point walk. The beach is large, crescent-shaped, and less crowded than Waikiki or Lanikai (which you’ll visit tomorrow). 

If you are hungry before hitting the beach, head to the Hawaiian Island Cafe . This small, reasonably priced cafe has something for almost everyone: pizza, acai bowls, and sandwiches. Don’t let it’s laid back decor fool you, this may be one of the best meals we’ve had on the island.

After the drive, you can head back to Waikiki either by retracing your path or by taking the stunning Pali highway back through the mountains. 

Once you arrive back in Waikiki, head to a restaurant on the beach for the beautiful colors at sunset. Try to make a reservation at Duke’s , Hula Grill , House Without a Key , Barefoot Bar .

Day 3: Historical Sites and the Windward Side

When we lived on Oahu this was my favorite day trip to send people on. Not too much driving, a little culture, and a lot of beautiful beach.

Your morning starts out with another drive. Grab a quick coffee if you need it and hit the road on the Pali highway. If you’re driving on a weekday, you’ll be happy to see that you’re going in the opposite direction of the commute traffic. You’ll wind your way through the mountains and tunnels before you make your way to the Nu’uanu Pali lookout . 

Here, you’ll be greeted with panoramic views from the windward side, which are even more beautiful in the early morning hours. Take in the view (and take some pictures) before you hop back in the car and make your way to Kailua town.

By now you’re probably ready for breakfast, and Kailua has plenty of options. Our favorites are:

🍍 Boots & Kimo’s Homestyle Kitchen

🍍 Moke’s Bread and Breakfast

🍍 Over Easy 

Or, if you’re not too hungry yet, grab a snack and a coffee at Kalapawai Market .

From here you’ll head to beautiful Lanikai Beach , one of the most beautiful beaches (and possibly most instagrammed beaches) on Oahu. You can choose to either spend your time laying on the beach or rent Kayaks and head out to the Mokulua islands . If you want to rent a kayak, you’ll do that in Kailua (near Kailua Beach) and paddle out to Lanikai Beach and Mokulua Islands. 

Once you’ve gotten your fill of the beach, head back into town for a quick lunch from Kalapawai Market for sandwiches, wraps, salads, or poke bowls. 

With the afternoon upon you, it’s time to drive back to the other side of the island and make a stop at the historical site of your choice: Pearl Harbor or Iolani Palace. Both are excellent and we highly recommend taking the time to visit at least one. 

Iolani Palace , located in downtown Honolulu, was the royal residence of the Hawaiian monarchy. It’s the only palace in the US and offers an incredible opportunity to learn about Hawaiian culture and history. 

Pearl Harbor is located just north of downtown Honolulu, and holds a number of museums and memorials that you can visit, including the memorial of the submerged USS Arizona. The museums and memorials are extremely well done. 

A note about Pearl Harbor tickets: tickets to the visitor center and USS Arizona memorial are free on a first-come, first-serve basis. If you’re traveling during a peak time and want a free ticket, you should flip the itinerary for the day and visit Pearl Harbor first, before heading to the windward side. Tickets are also available to reserve. You can find more information on the National Park Service website . 

Once your tour is done, you can head back to your hotel in Waikiki for a well-deserved cocktail and relaxing evening. Try one of the spots for dinner that you didn’t make it to from the Day 2 list.   

Day 4: Exploring the North Shore

This may sound crazy, but on day 4 we’re packing up your bags and heading to the north shore of Oahu for the night. Ok yes, it is crazy but here’s why we suggest this: there is so much to do on the north shore that missing it would be a shame. And the drive from Waikiki is long, so a day trip can take away from the whole vacation vibe feeling. 

Once your bags are packed and you’re ready to hit the road, set out on your overnight adventure. If you can wait, we recommend stopping for breakfast (or brunch) along the way at Green World Coffee Farm in Wahiawa . The coffee farm is 30-40 minutes from Waikiki. Here, you can stop for food, coffee, and even a coffee roasting tour. 

If you are traveling with kids (or you’re a kid at heart), make a stop just up the road at the Dole Plantation. Take a tour of the plantation to see how pineapples are grown, get lost in the pineapple maze, and sample Dole Whip. 

Continue up to the North Shore and drop your bags at Turtle Bay Resort — our favorite hotel on the North Shore. Once you’re ready, grab the complimentary snorkel gear and head to a beach. You can stay and snorkel at Turtle Bay, but we also recommend either Shark’s Cove or Waimea Bay, depending on the water conditions. 

Waimea Bay is beautiful and has a rock that juts out into the bay, perfect for jumping.

Note: if you’re visiting in the winter, the waves at Waimea Bay can be huge and dangerous. Skip snorkeling and just enjoy the view from the beach. Or try snorkeling at Turtle Bay where the water can be quite a bit calmer. 

Grab a quick lunch at one of the many food trucks that dot the north shore, like the Pupukea Grill . 

Once you’re done with the beach and lunch, head to do a short hike up the Waimea Valley trail to a waterfall. There are a number of waterfalls on the North Shore, but we recommend stopping at this private park — it’s worth the entrance fee if you really want to do a waterfall swim. 

Once you’re done, head back to Turtle Bay for some downtime. You can enjoy the pool and join the other guests as they view the sunset from the point. For dinner, there are plenty of options onsite, like Roy’s Beach House (expensive but delicious) and Lei Lei’s (reasonable and kid-friendly). 

Or drive a little further for some famed North Shore shrimp at Romy’s Kahuku Prawns Shrimp Hut or Fumi’s Kahuku Shrimp .

It’s time to start your last day on Oahu on the beautiful North Shore (lucky you). Waking up here before things get busy will help you appreciate the stark difference between Waikiki and the North Shore. It’s a completely different experience up here. 

Today you’re going to spend most of the day in and around Haleiwa Town. There aren’t many cute downtown areas in Hawaii, but this is one of the few. Start your drive down to Haleiwa town in time for breakfast because you have a few stand-out choices for food. 

10 minutes from the Turtle Bay resort is Ted’s Bakery, a great place to stop for breakfast if you’re in the mood for pancakes or bakery items (or come back for some cake later). Prefer a breakfast burrito? Head to Kono’s . Or if you’re looking for something for everyone, try Cafe Haleiwa or Waialua Bakery . 

(Can you tell we love the food on the North Shore?)

After breakfast, you’re ready to start your day. It’s time to grab a board and get in the water to try either a surf lesson or try your hand at SUP. Or, skip the lesson and rent a SUP board and paddle up the river. The North Shore is famous for surfing so if you’re going to get in the water anywhere, this is the spot.

Once your lesson is done, head back to Haleiwa town to explore. The little town is full of boutique shops and restaurants, and you could easily spend a couple of hours exploring all that is there. 

If you’re hungry again, check out the famous Giovanni’s shrimp truck located right in town. But be prepared to wait — we showed up at 11:10 am (they open at 11) and there were already at least 30 people there. You may also want to pop into Matsumoto Shave Ice, one of the most famous treats on the island. 

After that, jump in your car and head to the beach to see if you can catch a glimpse of some Honu, the Hawaiian green sea turtle. Most people stop at Laniakea Beach to see the turtles, but we’ve found that there’s often a crowd. Instead, head to Papa’iloa Beach. This beautiful beach became well known after being featured on the TV show Lost and we’ve had the best luck seeing turtles here without the crowd. 

Remember, there are rules when you see turtles. You shouldn’t disturb them and you should stay 10 feet away from them .

With your last full day winding down, you have a choice: head back to Turtle Bay for dinner and a sunset or head to (yet another) food truck and watch the sunset from Sunset Beach. 

Day 6: Saying goodbye

Before you head to the airport, say goodbye to the island with a stop at Sunrise Shack for an acai bowl, toast, or bulletproof coffee. 

  Stop scrolling and start packing. Our full Oahu itinerary and guide will give you the best of the best. 7+ excursion days, the best restaurants, beaches, and snorkel spots organized by location. We’ve got you covered.  

Can You Save Money with the Go Oahu Card

We, generally, have shied away from purchasing passes when visiting cities. However, we’ve recently started to do the math, and, depending on what to do, in some places, it absolutely makes sense to purchase a pass. 

Oahu just might be one of these places. You can read our full review and breakdown to see if the Go Oahu Card is worth it for you, but if you plan to do even just a few activities on this list, the pass can actually end up saving you money. 

How Long Do You Need on Oahu?

Well really, how long can you stay? There’s so much to do and see on every island. This itinerary takes you through 5 action-packed days to explore the island. But, there’s even more to see. Or, you could take it at a slower pace and alternate one beach/pool day with one day of adventure. 

According to the Hawaii Tourism Authority, in 2017 a visitor to Oahu spent an average of 6.74 days :

• Maui: 8.10 days
• Oahu: 6.74 days
• Kauai: 7.52 days
• Hawai’i: 7.34 days
• Lanai: 3.4 days
• Molokai: 4.76 days

Whether you can come to the islands for a long trip or you can only fit in a quick getaway, you should make the most of your time here with the best planning and advice — that’s why we started this guide! Read up for more information on the ideal number of days to spend on Oahu here .

Staying Longer on Oahu?

If you’re staying longer on the island (I hope you are!), there is so much more to see. Here are some suggestions:

Easy and Short Hikes on Oahu:

• Koko Crater: this Stairmaster workout, takes you up a mile-long hike of steps, an old railway line, to the top of Koko crater.
• Moana Falls: easy hike to a waterfall and a pretty drive from Honolulu
• Euhaki (sunset) Pillbox Hike: This North Shore hike takes you up a 30-minute climb, and is a good spot for sunsets
• Kaiwa Ridge (Lanikai Pillbox): A 1.8-mile hike up to the pillbox with views of Lanikai Beach below

Polynesian Cultural Center:

Stay one more day on the North Shore and visit the Polynesian Cultural Center. Learn about the cultures of Hawaii, Fiji, Aotearoa (New Zealand), Samoa, Tahiti, and Tonga. Spend the day exploring and stay for the Ali’i Luau. 

Explore Downtown Honolulu:

We love downtown Honolulu and with one more day on Oahu, I’d put this at the top of your list. You got a tiny view of the city when you visited Iolani Palace, but there is so much more to see. Aloha Tower , fish markets ( eat at this one ), and Chinatown are our favorites.

Onward Bound?

Many visitors to Hawaii don’t just visit one island. If you’re heading elsewhere, we’ve got you covered with island-specific itineraries, the best places to stay, and amazing things to do. 

Start exploring with:

The BEST Oahu itinerary and guide for your dream vacation

• 65 Things Your Kids Will Love to Do on Maui
• Swimming With Manta Rays on the Big Island
• Your Complete Guide to Whale Watching and Picking the Right Trip

Ready to pack your bags for your dream vacation? We’ve got you covered. Grab our  itinerary and guide !

This is the best itinerary you’ll find anywhere. With 7+ excursion days that have been carefully planned to help you see the very best of the island. But it’s more than just an itinerary.

Along with the excursion days you’ll receive:

• A video guide walking you through the pre-travel testing program
• A video overview of the island, so you know what to expect when you land
• A quick hits section with our favorite beaches, snorkel spots, and restaurants
• Our favorite tour operators
• Excursion days that you can pick up and do without planning

I'm the co-founder, with my husband Jordan, of The Hawaii Vacation Guide. We have lived on Maui and Oahu and continue to travel, experience, and learn about the Hawaiian Islands. We travel with our kids, Henry and Edith. I am a planner! I love to plan trips from the mainland and island-hopping adventures, excursion days, and everything in-between. I spend a lot of my time in Hawai'i on a SUP and my favorite time of year in Hawai'i is whale season!

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Plan the Perfect Big Island Trip with This In-Depth Itinerary

The Big Island offers an incredibly diverse range of natural beauties and cultural experiences. This 5-day itinerary of Big Island encompasses the magnificence of nature, the serenity of Hawaiian culture, the thrill of adventure, and the delight of sampling exotic flavors. This will surely make your 5-day journey an unforgettable saga of joy and discovery.

Have you dreamt of experiencing the extraordinary beauty of the Hawaiian Islands? If so, then you’re in the right place because we’ve got the perfect Big Island Hawaii itinerary planned for you!

Over five days, you’ll explore the black sand beaches, walk through the mesmerizing Thurston Lava Tube, and embark on a unique manta ray snorkeling adventure.

From stargazing atop Mauna Kea to swimming in the cerulean waters off the coast of South Point, this Big Island itinerary is packed with bucket-list experiences that create the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure in the Hawaiian paradise. It completes the dream of spending 5 days in Hawaii.

Allow the extraordinary beauty and charm of Hawaii’s Big Island to guide you through an exciting journey in paradise. Here’s how you can savor every bit of your time on the West and East sides of the island with our highly recommended 5-day itinerary.

The Ultimate Big Island Hawaii Itinerary: Making the Most Out of Your 5 Days

Day 1: kona coast and coffee farms.

On the first day of your Big Island Hawaii itinerary, you’ll be diving headfirst into the Kona Coast and its famed coffee farms. Wake up bright and early at your Big Island accommodation and relish a hearty breakfast at a local cafe (we recommend 808 Grindz Café !) to fuel up for the day.

Your primary destination for the morning should be a riveting snorkel trip in Kealakekua Bay along the stunning Kona coast. The clear, turquoise waters offer an exceptional snorkeling experience with a wealth of marine life to be discovered.

You won’t want to miss this unique opportunity to swim alongside vibrant corals and fascinating fish species and even get an occasional glimpse of friendly dolphins!

Post-snorkeling, it’s time to get a literal taste of Hawaii at its coffee farms. Take a Coffee, Cloud Forest, and Brewery Experience tour , which comes highly recommended for visitors interested in learning about Hawaiian culture and the world-famous Kona coffee.

During this tour, you’ll not only sample some delectable coffee brews but also gain insights into how these rich beans are grown and processed.

When you’re adequately caffeinated, consider a trip up north to Pololū Valley. The drive through the lush landscapes is an adventure in itself, but the real reward lies in hiking down into the valley.

Related Post: Things to Do in Kona Hawaii – 10 Mind-Blowing Activities

The picturesque greenery contrasted against the bright blue ocean is guaranteed to take your breath away. It’s the perfect end to the first day of your Big Island 5 day itinerary.

This Hawaii Big Island itinerary is flexible, and you should feel free to adjust it based on your preferences and energy levels.

From whale-watching tours back in Kona to packing a picnic lunch from Island Naturals for your hikes, this first day on the Big Island sets the tone for an unforgettable Hawaiian adventure .

Day 2: Volcanoes National Park

Your second day on the Big Island Hawaii itinerary begins with an exploration of one of the most awe-inspiring sites in the world – the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park .

An absolute must-visit when visiting the Big Island, the park offers stunning, dynamic landscapes shaped by the impressive power of the earth’s internal forces. A must not miss on any 5 day itinerary Big Island!

Related Post: 7 Reasons Why You Should Visit Volcanoes National Park

Start by heading to the visitor center early in the morning. Here, you can gather invaluable information about the park’s features and ongoing volcanic activities.

You will also be able to find detailed maps, view exciting exhibits, watch films about volcanoes, and even engage in intriguing talks by park rangers.

Next up on your Hawaii 5 day itinerary, proceed to the Chain of Craters Road, an arresting drive that unwinds from the rim of the Kilauea caldera to the ocean.

There will be plenty of pit stops along the route for photography breaks and short hikes. Don’t miss a walk through the Thurston Lava Tube, a natural tunnel where once hot lava flowed.

Your one-day itinerary to the Volcano National Park should also include a visit to the Volcano Village. This quaint township offers local restaurants where you can stop for a leisurely lunch, tasting the flavors of the Hawaiian Islands.

We highly recommend that you take part in the Evening Volcano Explorer tour guided by a professional guide. It’s an unforgettable experience to watch the active Kilauea volcano under the starry night sky, demonstrating the mesmerizing, living geology of the Big Island of Hawaii.

As your day 2 of the Big Island itinerary winds down, return to your accommodation inspired and satiated with the day’s activities. After all, it’s not every day that you get to see the Earth’s raw and breathtaking power up close!

Day 3: Hilo and the East Coast

As daylight breaks on the third day, you’ll be heading towards the city of Hilo on the east side of the Big Island. With a diverse range of experiences to offer, Hilo on the west side of the island may be vibrant and brimming with natural beauty, but it always retains its laid-back island ways.

The day starts with a scenic road trip to Hilo, which lends an opportunity to bask in the picturesque landscapes of east Hawaii. Historically rich and naturally endowed, Hilo opens up a world that seems detached from the bustle of daily life.

Once in Hilo, your first stop should be Akaka Falls State Park . Here, you will be greeted with the magnificent Akaka Falls, plummeting from a whopping 442 feet into a gorge below, enveloped in luscious greenery. Its buddy, the Kahuna Falls , is another picturesque sight located on the same trail.

Wrap up Day 3 by spending some time on the black sand beaches of Hilo while feasting your eyes on the infinite Pacific ahead. Nap in the soothing Hawaiian breeze or engage in some vibrant conversations with the locals.

If you want a sprinkle of culture on your Big Island Hawaii itinerary, bid farewell to the day by attending a local hula performance in the evening.

Day 4: Mauna Kea Summit and Stargazing

Your adventurous day 4 of the Big Island itinerary 5 days brings a change of scenery as you make your way to Mauna Kea , a summit of spiritual and historical significance to the Native Hawaiians. To make the most out of this day, it’s highly recommended to get an early start.

With the elevation of the summit at an astonishing 13,803 feet, it’s a unique chance to experience the landscapes offered by the big island of Hawaii from a bird’s eye view.

Related Post: Big Island Stargazing – Discount Tour Tickets & Reviews

Although the Mauna Kea summit is accessible by a rental car, the terrain can be treacherous, and a guided tour is a more practical choice.

While on your way up to the Mauna Kea summit, make strategic stops at Rainbow Falls, Boiling Pots, and Kaumana Caves to appreciate Hawaii’s geological wonders.

After reaching the summit, it’s time to visit the Mauna Kea Observatory Complex — a window into our expansive universe. Here, you can observe the celestial bodies in a clarity that remains unsurpassed, making it a must-do for any big island Hawaii itinerary .

As the sun sets, prepare for a Mauna Kea stargazing session unlike any other. With the help of telescopes provided, the celestial view from here encapsulates the Milky Way, various satellites, and, depending on the time of year, meteor showers.

It’s a stellar spectacle that’s sure to serve as the highlight of your 5 days in Hawaii.

To end the day on a high note, you can also take the adventurous option of a night swim with manta rays. Embark on a manta ray snorkel experience for an unforgettable encounter with these graceful creatures. Just make sure to book this experience ahead of time to secure your spot!

HOT TIP: Dress warmly for the chilly evening temperatures of Mauna Kea and carry necessary supplies such as water and snacks. This will ensure you spend the maximum time on the West side of the island comfortably and without hassles.

Day 5: North Kohala Adventure

As dawn breaks on your final day on the Big Island, you’ll be ready to take on one more epic adventure. The North Kohala coast is your destination, presenting breathtaking scenery and the opportunity to delve into Hawaii’s rich history.

Start your day at the Pololū Valley Lookout for panoramic views of the rugged coastline and deep valleys. A hike down to Pololū Beach reveals a different perspective of the valley’s sheer beauty, with its black sand beach and towering sea cliffs. It’s a moderate hike, so wear comfortable shoes and bring water.

Want to see green sand beaches instead? Head to one of only four green sand beaches in the world, located near South Point in the Kaʻū district of the Big Island.

Due to its unique geological features and somewhat remote location, it requires a bit of effort to reach but is well worth the visit for its distinct olive-green sand, which gets its color from olivine crystals.

Next, visit the Kohala Historical Sites State Monument, which includes the Moʻokini Heiau , one of the oldest and most significant sacrificial temple sites in Hawaii, and the birthplace of King Kamehameha I. Exploring these sites offers a profound insight into the cultural heritage of the island.

For lunch, head to the charming town of Hawi. Known for its eclectic boutiques, art galleries, and cafes, Hawi is the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely meal and perhaps pick up a few unique souvenirs.

Related Post: Waterfalls Near Hilo – Ultimate Kayak Tour Tips & Reviews

Conclude your Big Island adventure with a visit to Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area, known for its expansive white sand beach and clear waters.

It’s the perfect spot to relax, reflect on your 5 full days journey, and enjoy a stunning Hawaiian sunset with your partner . Hāpuna Beach is also great for a final swim or snorkel in the island’s warm waters.

Is 5 Days Enough for the Big Island in Hawaii?

While five days may not allow you to explore every nook and cranny of the Big Island, it certainly provides ample time to experience the major highlights.

With careful planning and our meticulously curated Big Island Hawaii itinerary, you can explore the fascinating blend of its awe-inspiring landscapes, captivating coastlines, and rich cultural heritage.

Related Post: Free Things to Do on the Big Island – 16 Can’t-Miss Activities

It’s not about ticking off every attraction but immersing in the moments that make your Hawaiian adventure truly memorable, whether the attraction is free or paid.

Savor the Flavor: Must-Try Hawaiian Dishes During Your 5-Day Stay

When visiting the Big Island of Hawaii, immersing yourself in the unique and delectable local cuisine is an experience you’ll remember. Your taste buds will thank you for it!

Start your day in style at the 808 Grindz Cafe in Kailua-Kona. Here, we highly recommend the savory pancakes coupled with a traditional Kona coffee. A morning kick-off doesn’t get better than this!

As you explore the serene beauty of the Big Island, make sure to stop by The Coffee Shack near Kealakekua Bay during lunch. The papaya special here is a local darling. Why, you ask? Well, only one way to find out!

Related Post: Best Place For Whale Watching – In-Depth Guide to US Locations

Another location not to miss is the Punaluu Bake Shop , known for its incredible assortment of Hawaiian dishes and sweet breads. Grabbing lunch here will allow you to discover a delightful mix of traditional Hawaiian flavors.

If you find yourself in Hilo, start your day with a hearty breakfast at the  Hawaiian Style Cafe . Then, after your snorkeling tour in the Sea Turtle Lagoon of Hilo Bay, make your way to The Booch Bar for lunch. Your 5 days in Hawaii wouldn’t be complete without their superb cuisine.

While dining in Big Island, grab the opportunity to enrich your cultural knowledge and understanding of the Hawaiian Islands. Don’t be shy to ask your server about the history or significance of the dish you’re devouring!

What is the Number One Thing to Do in Big Island Hawaii?

Standing at the pinnacle of must-see attractions in the Big Island of Hawaii is undeniably the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. It draws millions of visitors each year, all eager to witness the awe-inspiring sight of active lava flows and volcanoes firsthand.

Embodying the raw natural beauty of Hawaii, this park provides a truly unique and unforgettable experience that aptly tops your Big Island itinerary, whether it’s a 1-day or 5-day itinerary.

Where to Stay in Big Island Hawaii

If you’re looking to experience comfort and luxury during your 5 days in Hawaii, consider staying at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort and Spa . This Hawaiian paradise overlooks Anaeho’omalu Bay, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the island’s beauty while experiencing first-rate amenities.

From relaxing spa services to invigorating water sports, this resort offers an unrivaled opportunity to enjoy the best of the Big Island. Plus, its central location makes it a perfect base for the day-to-day trips on your Big Island itinerary.

Related Post:  Luaus in Hawaii – 11 Top Luaus for An Unforgettable Evening

Alternatively, a stay at the Hilton Waikoloa Village presents a remarkable island resort experience. This family-friendly oasis, nestled on the Ocean’s edge, boasts an artificial beach and lagoon, providing a haven for memorable water-based activities.

Their numerous on-site amenities and in-room luxuries undoubtedly enhance your enriching Hawaii itinerary 5 days. Its convenient location also makes it a favorable choice when planning your excursions in and around the Big Island.

Lastly, for a dose of unrivaled luxury during your visit to the Big Island, we highly recommend the Hilton Grand Vacations Club Ocean Tower at Waikoloa Village . This exceptional oceanfront resort delivers a sublime experience, harmonizing comfort and elegance.

Perfectly situated to be a home base for your 5-day itinerary, the resort lets you immerse yourself in prime Hawaiian hospitality while staying conveniently close to the vibrant activities and attractions that the Big Island has to offer.

Can I Go to the Big Island From Honolulu?

Yes, you can easily travel to the Big Island from Honolulu, the capital city of Hawaii, located on the island of Oahu. Interisland flights are available from Honolulu to either Kona or Hilo on the Big Island.

It’s a convenient option that makes island hopping quite possible and popular among visitors.

Know Before You Go: Insider Tips for a Smooth Big Island Vacation

Best time to visit big island.

Knowing the ideal season for your Big Island visit aids in perfecting your Big Island itinerary. Although the island is inviting throughout the year, the months between April and September provide a delightful balance of beautiful weather and less crowded sights.

The sun generously showers its warmth, and there’s a lower likelihood of rain interrupting your exploration.

From May to October, you’re in for sunny days filled with beach bliss and adventure. Additionally, if you’re keen on witnessing the majestic humpback whales, then navigate your Hawaii itinerary 5 days to include the months from December to April.

Local Etiquette and Cultural Norms

When visiting the Big Island of Hawaii, it’s essential to approach every experience with respect and understanding – it’s the aloha spirit.

From taking off your shoes before entering homes to showing reverence at spiritual sites, every action should reflect your respect for the island’s natural beauty, historical significance, and local inhabitants.

Speak softly, smile genuinely, and follow the ‘kapu’ (sacred) signs to respect the island’s sensitive areas, such as the Mauna Kea summit.

Being mindful of local culture can wholly enrich your 5-day itinerary at the Big Island, turning a beautiful vacation into a transformative journey.

Cash or Card? Payment Options in Big Island Hawaii

When considering your payment options for your Big Island Hawaii itinerary, it’s flexible. Both cash and cards are welcomed throughout the island. Major credit and debit cards are generally accepted in most establishments, especially in larger towns and tourist hotspots.

Related Post:  Volcano Tours Big Island – 5 Incredible Hawaii Adventures

However, if your 5 days in Hawaii include a visit to remote locales or small mom-and-pop businesses, have some cash on hand.

Do keep in mind, though, that the Big Island is a popular tourist destination, and ATMs can run out of cash, especially on weekends and holidays.

What to Bring

When visiting the Big Island of Hawaii, it’s crucial to be well-prepared. The weather can be unpredictable, so pack plenty of breathable clothing, a lightweight rain jacket, sturdy footwear for hiking, and a sun hat to shield from the strong midday sun.

Given the stunning undersea beauty, you won’t want to miss the chance to capture the vibrant marine life. So, don’t forget to pack a water-resistant camera for snorkeling.

Additionally, a daypack for carrying your essentials during long explorations would be useful. Remember to also bring your trusty water bottle to stay hydrated!

Modes of Transportation in Big Island

On the Big Island of Hawaii, transportation mainly revolves around two components: rental cars and public buses. Renting a car is the most efficient way to explore and fit in all your desired stops in your Hawaii itinerary 5 days. Providers like Discover Cars can help you find the best deals.

Although public buses exist, they have limited routes and schedules, making a rental car highly recommended for a fulfilling Big Island Hawaii itinerary. The island also has two accessible airports, Kona and Hilo, for inter-island trips or a quick ride to the mainland.

And if you’re keen on a truly unique view, helicopter tours can offer breathtaking prospects of the stunning island landscape.

Ready to Plan a Big Island Vacation?

If you’re ready to pack your bags for a Hawaiian adventure, consider booking a  vacation package for the Big Island. This package not only saves you the hassle of individual bookings but also promises you affordable access to some of the island’s top tours and attractions.

Whether you’d like to explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, marvel at Akaka Falls, or dive into Manta Ray snorkeling, all these could be on your itinerary.

Related Post:  Cheapest Places to Stay in Hawaii – A First-Time Visitor’s Guide

Accommodations? Rest assured, the choices are plenty, ranging from lavish resorts to budget-friendly stays, depending on your preferences.

Embark on a remarkable journey and savor the best of the Big Island in Hawaii.

Written by Nicole King

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How To Plan A 5-Day Trip To Hawaii

Published: November 16, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Debera Steiner

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Guide
• Travel Tips

Introduction

Welcome to the tropical paradise of Hawaii! With its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and unique culture, Hawaii is a dream destination for many travelers. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, Hawaii has something for everyone.

In this guide, we’ll take you through a 5-day itinerary to make the most of your trip to Hawaii. From exploring the vibrant city life of Oahu to adventuring in the breathtaking landscapes of Maui and soaking in the serene beauty of Kauai, you’ll get a taste of the diverse attractions that the Hawaiian islands have to offer.

Before we dive into the details, it’s important to note the best time to visit Hawaii. The islands enjoy a year-round warm climate, but the peak tourist season runs from December to April. If you prefer fewer crowds and milder prices, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons of May to June or September to November.

Now, let’s get started on planning your unforgettable 5-day trip to Hawaii!

Day 1: Arrival in Hawaii

Your adventure begins as you touchdown at one of Hawaii’s major airports, such as Honolulu International Airport on the island of Oahu. Take a moment to soak in the warm island air and the breathtaking views as you step off the plane.

After you’ve collected your luggage, it’s time to check-in to your accommodations. Oahu offers a wide range of options, from luxurious beachfront resorts to cozy vacation rentals. Choose a location that suits your preferences and budget.

Once you’ve settled in, venture out to explore the vibrant city life of Honolulu. Start by visiting the historic Pearl Harbor, where you can pay your respects at the USS Arizona Memorial and learn about the events that shaped the course of World War II.

Next, head to the iconic Waikiki Beach, renowned for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Take a dip in the ocean, lounge by the shoreline, or indulge in some water sports like surfing or paddleboarding.

In the evening, make your way to the lively neighborhood of Chinatown. Here, you’ll find an array of eclectic shops, trendy bars, and delicious eateries. Try some local Hawaiian cuisine, such as poke bowls or kalua pork, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere.

As the sun sets, consider taking a leisurely stroll along the famous Waikiki Beach Walk. Enjoy the twinkling lights, live music, and street performances as you soak up the enchanting ambiance of Waikiki.

After a full day of exploration, return to your accommodations and prepare for the adventures that await you on the following day.

Day 2: Exploring Oahu

On your second day in Hawaii, dedicate your time to exploring the diverse attractions of Oahu. Start your day early and fuel up with a delicious breakfast before embarking on your adventures.

Begin by visiting the famous Diamond Head State Monument. This iconic volcanic crater offers breathtaking panoramic views of the island. Hike to the summit and be rewarded with stunning vistas of the sparkling blue ocean and the lush green landscapes below.

After soaking in the beauty of Diamond Head, head to the North Shore, known for its legendary surf breaks and laid-back vibes. Stop by the charming town of Haleiwa and indulge in some freshly shaved ice or visit the Dole Plantation to learn about the island’s pineapple heritage.

Continue your exploration by visiting the Polynesian Cultural Center. Immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of Hawaii and other Pacific Island nations. Watch captivating performances, participate in hands-on activities, and savor a traditional luau feast.

In the evening, make your way to the bustling streets of Waikiki and experience the vibrant nightlife. Enjoy live music, sip on tropical cocktails, and dance the night away at one of the many clubs and bars in the area.

As the day comes to an end, reflect on the incredible experiences you’ve had exploring Oahu and get a good night’s rest, as tomorrow will take you to the island of Maui.

Day 3: Adventure in Maui

On day three, get ready for a day filled with adventure as you explore the breathtaking landscapes of Maui. After a short flight from Oahu to Maui, start your day by driving to the famous Road to Hana.

The Road to Hana is a scenic highway that winds along Maui’s northeastern coastline, offering stunning views of lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and pristine beaches. Take your time to stop at various lookout points, hike to hidden waterfalls, and swim in secluded pools.

As you make your way along the road, don’t miss the chance to visit the Garden of Eden Arboretum and Botanical Garden. Wander through the beautifully landscaped grounds, filled with exotic plants, colorful flowers, and panoramic views of the coastline.

After a day of exploration, head to the charming town of Lahaina for some well-deserved relaxation. Stroll along Front Street, lined with art galleries, boutique shops, and waterfront restaurants. Don’t forget to catch a mesmerizing sunset over the ocean.

If you’re looking for a unique experience, consider joining a traditional Hawaiian luau. Feast on an array of delicious local dishes, watch captivating hula performances, and immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of Hawaii.

After a day filled with adventure and cultural immersion, retreat to your accommodations and rest up for another exciting day in Hawaii.

Day 4: Relaxation in Kauai

Day four is all about unwinding and immersing yourself in the serene beauty of Kauai. Known as the “Garden Isle,” Kauai offers lush landscapes, pristine beaches, and a slower pace of life.

Start your day by exploring the stunning Na Pali Coast. Take a scenic helicopter tour or embark on a boat excursion to witness the dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and hidden sea caves. Keep an eye out for dolphins and sea turtles that often grace these waters.

Once you’ve experienced the beauty of the Na Pali Coast, make your way to Hanalei Bay. This picturesque beach is a perfect spot for relaxation and rejuvenation. Lounge on the golden sands, take a dip in the clear turquoise waters, or try your hand at paddleboarding.

For lunch, head to a local food truck or a charming beachside restaurant and indulge in some fresh seafood or traditional Hawaiian dishes. Don’t forget to try the famous Hawaiian dish of poi, made from taro root.

In the afternoon, visit the enchanting Wailua Falls. This two-tiered waterfall is not only a sight to behold but also a sacred place in Hawaiian folklore. Take in the beauty and feel the soothing mist on your skin.

End your day with a sunset cruise along the Wailua River. Glide through the tranquil waters, surrounded by lush forests and stunning views. Witness the magical colors of the sunset painting the sky as you unwind and reflect on the beauty of Kauai.

As the day comes to a close, return to your accommodations and savor the peaceful atmosphere of Kauai, knowing that you’ve truly experienced the essence of this beautiful island.

Day 5: Departure from Hawaii

On your final day in Hawaii, make the most of your time before it’s time to bid aloha to the islands. Although it’s time to say goodbye, there are still a few memorable experiences you can enjoy.

Start your day by watching the sunrise at one of Hawaii’s beautiful beaches. Set your alarm early and find the perfect spot to witness the vibrant colors illuminating the sky as the sun emerges from the horizon. It’s a magical and serene way to begin your last day.

After watching the sunrise, indulge in a leisurely breakfast at a local café or enjoy a traditional Hawaiian plate of loco moco or macadamia nut pancakes. Reflect on the amazing memories you’ve made during your time in Hawaii and the experiences that have left a lasting impression.

Spend the remaining hours immersing yourself in the local culture. Visit a local market or craft fair to find unique souvenirs and gifts made by local artisans. Chat with the vendors and learn more about the cultural significance behind their craft. It’s a great way to support the local community and bring a piece of Hawaii home with you.

Before you leave, take a moment to visit a historical site or landmark that embodies the spirit of Hawaii. Whether it’s the famous USS Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor or the historic Iolani Palace in Honolulu, appreciate the rich history and cultural heritage of the islands.

As your departure time approaches, take one last walk along the beach to feel the soft sand between your toes and the gentle ocean breeze on your skin. Say farewell to the palm trees swaying in the distance and the waves crashing on the shore. Hawaii has given you memories that will last a lifetime.

Finally, make your way to the airport, and as you board your plane, savor the last glimpses of the beautiful Hawaiian islands from the window. Reflect on the incredible adventure you’ve had and start planning your return trip to this enchanting paradise.

Aloha, Hawaii. Until we meet again!

Your 5-day trip to Hawaii has come to an end, leaving you with cherished memories of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. Hawaii’s diverse islands offer a blend of natural beauty, vibrant city life, and a unique aloha spirit that captures the hearts of all who visit.

From exploring the historic landmarks of Oahu to the breathtaking landscapes of Maui and the serene beauty of Kauai, you’ve experienced the best that Hawaii has to offer. You’ve hiked to stunning viewpoints, swam in crystal-clear waters, sampled delicious cuisine, and embraced the captivating Hawaiian culture.

While this itinerary provides a snapshot of the Hawaiian islands, there is so much more to discover. Each island has its own distinct personality and attractions, and there are countless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration.

As you depart from Hawaii, take a moment to reflect on the experiences you’ve had and the connections you’ve made with the beautiful surroundings and the warm-hearted people. Hawaii has a way of touching the soul and leaving a lifelong appreciation for its natural wonders and rich heritage.

Whether it’s your first visit or you’re already planning your return, Hawaii will always welcome you with open arms. So, until your next Hawaiian adventure, carry the aloha spirit with you, and let the memories of this tropical paradise continue to fill your heart.

Mahalo and a hui hou! Thank you and until we meet again!

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Adventurous 5-Day Itinerary for Oahu, Hawaii

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If you’re looking for the perfect destination for a beach and city vacation—look no further than Oahu, Hawaii. Oahu is the perfect blend of upbeat city atmosphere and laid-back surfer vibes—all on one island! It’s fun, beautiful, and not to mention, there are tons of unique places to eat.  

The truth is, there are too many things to do on Oahu to possibly fit into one week. You could be here on vacation for months and never get bored! However, for your convenience, I’ve narrowed down the best things to do in Oahu to a handy five-day itinerary for Oahu you can easily replicate. But before we get started outlining the itinerary for Oahu, here are some common questions you might have about traveling to Oahu: 

Disclosure: Some of the links in this blog post are affiliate links, meaning that I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase at no additional cost to you. This helps me keep the content on my website free for you to enjoy!

Where is Oahu, Hawaii?  

Oahu is one of eight small islands that make up the state of Hawaii, located in the Pacific Ocean. It’s the only U.S. state comprised of islands, and it’s about 2,000 miles away from the mainland.  

Oahu is the home to Hawaii’s capital city,  Honolulu . It’s the most densely populated Hawaiian island, with nearly one million people living there. For reference, only 1.5 million people live in the entire state of Hawaii! You can read my post about the differences between Oahu, Honolulu, and Waikiki to learn more about this popular island.

How Do I Get to Oahu?  

Honolulu International Airport (HNL)  is the main airport for Oahu and the entire state of Hawaii. Once you arrive at the Honolulu Internation Airport, you’ll only be a 30-minute drive away from Waikiki Beach and a 15-minute drive away from Downtown Honolulu. 

Where Should I Stay in Oahu?  

There are plenty of options of places to stay during your trip to Oahu. Personally,  I recommend staying in Waikiki  for close access to many of the area’s most popular attractions and tons of hotel and resort options. We stayed in the  Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort  and absolutely loved our experience there! It offers beachfront access to Waikiki Beach and has popular restaurants, Duke’s Waikiki, and the Sunrise Shack, located in the lobby. 

Here are some other popular hotels and resorts located in the heart of Waikiki: 

• The Royal Hawaiian
• Moana Surfrider 
• Hilton Hawaiian Village

If you’re looking for a more peaceful, laid-back atmosphere, I recommend staying on the North Shore or Leeward Coast. Here are some hotel options that would work well for this itinerary for Oahu: 

• Turtle Bay Resort
• Ko Olina Beach Club

You can read my guide about the best resorts on Oahu for a deeper dive into the amenities of the hotels listed above. I wrote this guide assuming that you’ll be staying in Waikiki during your trip. However, you’ll be able to modify it to fit the destination you’re staying in! Or, if you’re traveling to Oahu on a budget, check out these cheap hotels to stay in.

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Do I Need to Rent a Car During my Trip to Oahu?  

The short answer?  Yes.  You need to rent a car in Oahu to explore all the island has to offer. In fact, not renting a car is one of the biggest mistakes to avoid when traveling to Hawaii! However, you don’t need to have a vehicle for every day. 

We rented a car for three days out of our five days spent on the island. We felt three days with the car gave us the perfect opportunity to see the best of what the island had to offer! 

5-Day Itinerary for Oahu  

Day 1: explore waikiki  .

Since you just arrived in Honolulu yesterday, spend today exploring your home base for the week— Waikiki ! 

Here’s a brief overview of how to spend your first day in Waikiki on this itinerary for Oahu, but you can also discover the  ten best things to do in Waikiki, Hawaii , here! 

Basalt Waikiki  

The first stop on your five-day itinerary for Oahu is a hearty breakfast at Basalt. This restaurant is located in Duke’s Lane Marketplace, a small collection of coffee shops, bakeries, restaurants, and a grocery store wrapped up in one! 

I ordered the  French Toast  crusted with  coconut  and  macadamia nuts , and it was so amazing! 

Waikiki Beach  

Next, spend the late morning and early afternoon at Waikiki Beach,   one of the most popular beaches in the United States! 

You can take  surfing lessons , take an  outrigger canoe ride , go on a sunset cocktail cruise , rent a  paddleboard  or  boogie board , or simply  relax on the beach  with a cocktail admiring the crystal blue waters. If you look in the distance, you can see Diamond Head Crater—one of the best hikes on Oahu! 

Banan  

Once you’ve spent enough time in the sun, it’s time for a refreshing treat at Banan—located just off Waikiki Beach between the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort and Cheesecake Factory. 

Banan serves delicious soft-serve ice cream made from bananas (hence the name). I ordered the  Chunkadelic —banana ice cream topped with dark chocolate, granola, shaved coconut, honey, and Banan’s house-made macadamia nut honey butter. You can also order your ice cream in a “papaya boat” or “pineapple yacht.” 

Kalakaua Avenue  

Next, venture out to Kalakaua Avenue—the hub of shopping and resorts in Waikiki. You’ll find everything here—from worldwide brands and luxury chains to souvenir shops and local stores. 

Even if you aren’t into shopping, I would recommend taking a walk through some of the outdoor shopping centers along Kalakaua Avenue—including the International Marketplace  and  Royal Hawaiian Center . 

While you’re on Kalakaua Avenue, I recommend resort hopping to see some of the most beautiful and iconic hotels in Waikiki. Don’t miss stopping at the  Royal Hawaiian ,  Moana Surfrider , and  Hilton Hawaiian Village ! 

Ainahau Triangle  

After venturing down Kalakaua Avenue, make your way over to Ainahau Triangle. It’s a lush, green park that features tons of Hawaiian plants and flowers, like  banyan trees  and  plumeria flowers . 

Plus, Ainahau Triangle is a beautiful place to watch the sunset that’s lesser-known than the beaches in Waikiki. 

Duke’s Waikiki  

The final stop on this itinerary for Oahu to complete your first day in Hawaii is dinner at Duke’s Waikiki! Duke’s is an iconic restaurant located in the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort lobby that offers spectacular views of Waikiki Beach, tiki vibes, and a surf ‘n’ turf menu!  

I’d highly recommend making a reservation to avoid a 2-3 hour wait. I ordered the  Coconut Shrimp  and  Lava Flow  cocktail. Both were fantastic! 

Day 2 – Kailua & Kaneohe  

Today on the itinerary for Oahu, you’ll explore Oahu’s “Windward Coast,” located about 15-20 miles from Waikiki. 

You’ll want to rent a car for the next three days. We rented our car from  National Car Rental  located in the Hilton Hawaiian Village and had a great experience with them! 

Lanikai Pillbox Hike  

After fueling up with a filling breakfast at Over Easy , drive to Lanikai Beach—one of the best things to do on Oahu for free! You won’t be lounging at the beach yet, though. First, you have to conquer the Lanikai Pillbox Hike!  

Since the entrance to the hike is located in a neighborhood, I recommend using public parking at Lanikai Beach. It’s a short walk to the hike entrance, and it’s a hassle to find parking, otherwise. The Lanikai Pillbox Hike is a rocky and steep  1.8-mile trail  that offers spectacular views of  Lanikai Beach , the  Ko’olau Mountain Range , and  Oahu’s Windward Coast . 

This hike gets its name from the two military pillboxes located at the end of the trail. They were used as observation stations during World War II in the 1940s, but now, they’re the perfect spot for a photo opportunity! 

Lanikai Beach 

Now, it’s time to take a dip in the refreshing ocean you just saw from the top of the mountain— Lanikai Beach ! Lanikai Beach has been called the “ most beautiful ” of Oahu’s beaches, and it’s easy to see why! The turquoise blue waters and soft white sand will give you plenty of tropical island vibes. 

Note:  Even though I’m wearing my snorkel gear in this photo, I wouldn’t recommend snorkeling at Lanikai Beach. It’s a beautiful place to swim, but after an hour or so of snorkeling, we only managed to see one sea turtle and a few fish. The best snorkeling spots on the island are Hanauma Bay and Shark’s Cove—and you’ll visit one later in this itinerary! 

Island Snow  

After the beach, head to Island Snow for the  best shave ice  you’ll eat on Oahu! They have all-natural, locally made flavors that are amazing. Plus, every shave ice comes with a scoop of macadamia nut ice cream at the bottom.  

Enough said, right? Stop here for “lunch” today since you’ll want to save plenty of room for tonight’s dinner plans! 

Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens  

Ready to soak in Hawaii’s natural beauty—that’s  not  on a beach? If so, visit Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens in Kaneohe for 400 acres of  dramatic mountain views ,  breathtaking scenery , and  tropical plants  from around the world, including the Philippines, Malaysia, America, India, Sri Lanka, Hawaii, Polynesia, and Africa! 

And the best part? Ho’omaluhia Gardens is  completely free  to visit! However, the gardens close at 4 PM every day, so be sure to leave Kailua with plenty of time to explore this gorgeous area. 

Haleiwa Joe’s  

Haleiwa Joe’s in Kaneohe is an  open-air restaurant  that overlooks a  tropical garden ,  lush greenery , and the  Ko‘olau Mountains . Eating dinner here is one of the best things to do on Oahu, and actually, it was  one of my favorite experiences of our entire trip ! 

The restaurant is just a short 3-mile drive from the Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens, which is perfect because you’ll want to  arrive at least 15 minutes before the restaurant opens  to avoid a three-hour wait. Yes, it’s that popular—even on the weeknights!  We arrived at about 4:15 PM and were seated immediately. We asked the waitress for a table near the balcony to overlook the gardens, and she was happy to accommodate our request. 

I’d recommend ordering a  Mai Tai  and anything from the surf ‘n’ turf menu—but really, the best meal at Haleiwa Joe’s is the feast for your eyes. And that’s saying something because the food is fantastic! After your meal, walk down to the gardens to explore until the sunset, when the gardens close. If there’s already a wait time when you arrive, use the time to explore the gardens before your meal!

Day 3 – Honolulu & Leeward Coast  

On the third day of your itinerary for Oahu, you’ll be taking full advantage of the car and driving all around the island! 

Breakfast at Leonard’s Bakery  

Good morning! After stopping for coffee at Kai Coffee Roaster or Olive & Oliver (my two favorite coffee shops in Waikiki), drive to Leonard’s Bakery for breakfast (namely, malasadas). 

Malasadas are  Portuguese doughnuts  that are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, dusted with granulated sugar (& sometimes cinnamon), and served piping hot! At Leonard’s Bakery, you can order malasada puffs—malasadas stuffed with delicious tropical flavored custards, like  coconut, macadamia, guava, pineapple,  or  mango . 

Leonard’s Bakery has been serving the island of Oahu fresh, hot malasadas since 1953, and it’s one of the most popular bakeries on the island. If you’re like me, you’ll love the retro flair of the shop and the bright pink boxes the malasadas are served in! 

Pearl Harbor National Memorial  

If you’re a history-lover like me, you can’t miss the chance to pay your respects at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial in Honolulu, Hawaii. 

The Pearl Harbor National Memorial commemorates the Japanese attack on the U.S. Pacific Fleet on December 7 th , 1941. This catastrophic event ended the life of 2,403 American citizens and military personnel, sunk or damaged 18 U.S. warships, and launched the United States into World War II. 

Pearl Harbor is one of the  best things to do on Oahu for free —you can visit the  USS Arizona Memorial ,  Remembrance Circle ,  Road to War Museum , and  Attack Gallery Museum   free of charge . You can also tour the USS Missouri Battleship and USS Bowfin Submarine and Museum for an additional fee. 

You can also purchase a tour of Pearl Harbor that includes other activities and transportation, like this popular Pearl Harbor and Honolulu City Tour .

Tour Disney’s Aulani Resort  

After stopping for lunch at  Monkeypod Kitchen , we visited Disney’s Aulani Resort to explore, shop, and eat a Dole Whip (of course). If you’re a Disney fan, it’s worth stopping at the resort if you’re not staying there—it’s beautiful, and it’s a small slice of Disney magic on the island! 

However, if you’re not interested in visiting the Aulani Resort, here are some other ways to spend your afternoon that fit well into this itinerary for Oahu: 

• Dole Plantation —The location where Dole Pineapples are grown and Dole Whip is made! 😉 
• Waimea Botanical Garden —Beautiful tropical garden with a waterfall 
• Hanauma Bay —One of the best places to snorkel on Oahu 
• Downtown Honolulu —The city’s capital, featuring Chinatown and the Ala Moana Center 
• Koko Head Crater —One of Oahu’s most challenging hikes with remarkable views! 
• Polynesian Cultural Center —Location highlighting Polynesian culture with luaus, live shows, tours, and more 
• Kualoa Ranch —The filming location of “Jurassic Park” with outdoor adventures like ziplining, horseback rides, ATV rides, and film tours 

Attend a Luau  

To end the third night of your itinerary for Oahu, enjoy an  oceanfront luau  for fantastic  food  and  entertainment  wrapped up in one evening! 

We attended the  Ka Moana Luau  at Sea Life Park Hawaii, and we had an amazing time! I loved learning the dances, customs, and cultural differences of the Polynesian cultures in Hawaii, Tahiti, Papua New Guinea, and others countries across the Pacific Ocean during the evening. 

Although I would recommend the Ka Moana Luau, if you’re looking for other luaus across the island, here are a few popular ones: 

• Toa Luau  on the North Shore 
• Germaine’s Luau  on the Leeward Coast 
• Paradise Cove Luau  on the Leeward Coast 
• Chief’s Luau  at Wet ‘N’ Wild Hawaii 
• Diamond Head Luau  in Waikiki 

Day 4 – North Shore  

During the fourth day of your itinerary for Oahu, you’ll travel across the island to the North Shore—famous for its killer waves, laid-back lifestyle, and the traditional “island” vibes you’d expect when visiting Hawaii! You can read my blog about  how to spend a day on the North Shore   for a more in-depth look at the following items on today’s itinerary.

Breakfast at Haleiwa Bowls  

First, start your day at Hale’iwa Bowls—a small kiosk on the North Shore that serves  delicious acai bowls ! 

They use local fruits, coconut, honey, and other local products to build to serve fresh and delicious bowls. I ordered the Blue Majik Bowl, and my sister ordered the Hapa Acai Bowl—both are pictured below. 

Snorkel at Shark’s Cove  

After breakfast, head to Shark’s Cove for an  incredible snorkeling experience . Shark’s Cove is a small, rocky bay where you can spot tons of aquatic life, including triggerfish, butterflyfish, parrotfish, needlefish, trumpetfish, and sea turtles (but no sharks, don’t worry!). Don’t forget to check the current before your snorkel, watch out for the jagged rocks, and always wear reef-safe sunscreen. 

Tip:  Shark’s Cove doesn’t charge an admission fee, so if you bring your own snorkel gear,  it’s free to visit ! 

Explore Haleiwa  

After your snorkeling adventure, head to Haleiwa—the  hub of art and culture  for the North Shore. 

Here, you can go shopping for  local goods  and  souvenirs , grab a Breakfast Bombe r  from  Kono’s Northshore  (they are so tasty!), or snap a photo at the  Colette Miller Wings  mural, located on the Anahulu Shave Ice building. 

Spot Sea Turtles at Laniakea Beach  

Looking for the best place to spot a sea turtle during your trip to Oahu? Look no further than Laniakea Beach—located just north along the coast of Haleiwa. Typically, the sea turtles emerge in the  afternoon , which is why it’s best to save this stop for later in the day. Plus, it’s a beautiful place to watch the sun sink below the horizon! 

Matsumoto’s Shave Ice  

Before you drive home, stop at Matsumoto’s Shave Ice for an iconic treat—they’ve been serving shave ice to the island of Oahu since 1951! With  over 30 flavors , you’ll be able to mix and match to create a delicious, refreshing treat. And, the prices are great! It only costs  $3 for a small  shave ice and $ 3.50 for a large  shave ice.  

I ordered a coconut, pina colada, and guava shaved ice with sweetened condensed milk. It was a fun way to end a memorable day on the North Shore! 

Drive Back to Waikiki  

Since many places on the North Shore close early, we decided to  drive back to Waikiki for dinner . We went to Maui Brewing Company, just across the street from The Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort. It offers a fun, upbeat atmosphere, and it’s a great place to try a Hawaiian brew.

You’ll also want to return your car tonight. You’ll be spending your last day in Waikiki! 

Day 5 – Waikiki

It’s your last day in Hawaii—cue the tears. But don’t be sad for too long because you still have one final day planned for your itinerary for Oahu, and it’s filled with plenty of fun things to do! 

Hike Diamond Head Summit Trail  

After stopping for breakfast at  Knot’s Coffee Roasters , head to Diamond Head to hike the Diamond Head Summit Trail!  The Diamond Head Summit Trail is just a short 2.2-mile (eight-minute) drive from Waikiki Beach. I’d recommend biking or driving to the mountain (basically anything but walking) to spare your feet for the rest of the day. 

The views from the top of the Diamond Head are absolutely breathtaking! You’ll be able to see Waikiki Beach, Honolulu, and even the Windward Coast from the top of the volcanic cone. The hike is pretty short, only 1.8 miles, and the trail is well-paved. Diamond Head costs $10 per car or $5 per walk-in , but the cost is worth it! 

Note:  Diamond Head State Monument is closed on Wednesdays. However, the park is open the other six days of the week from 6 AM – 4 PM! 

Snorkel at Queen’s Beach 

After your morning hike, head down to Queen’s Beach for the afternoon. Queen’s Beach is the best place in Waikiki to snorkel, and while the marine life isn’t as abundant as it is at Shark’s Cove, it’s still a fun way to spend the afternoon!

Here are some other ideas of things to do in Waikiki and Honolulu you can add to this itinerary for Oahu: 

• See the animals at the Honolulu Zoo 
• Check out the Waikiki Aquarium 
• Shop at the International Marketplace 
• Get drinks at Duke’s Waikiki and lounge on the beach 

Dinner at SKY Waikiki

The final stop on your itinerary for Oahu is a sunset dinner at SKY Waikiki—a seafood and cocktail bar. This fabulous restaurant is located on the 19th floor of the Waikiki Business Plaza and offers phenomenal views of Waikiki Beach and the surrounding city once the sun goes down.

I recommend making reservations, so you can be seated in time to watch the sun sink below the ocean! I ordered a Mai Tai slushy and Garlic Lemon Shrimp, and they were both delicious. SKY Waikiki was definitely one of the most memorable dining experiences from our vacation! I would highly recommend stopping here while you’re in Waikiki

Leave Honolulu

Sadly, your time in Oahu has come to a close. If you’re following this itinerary for Oahu and based in the USA like me, you should plan to fly out early the next morning to account for the time you’ll lose coming home.

Use this Five-Day Itinerary for Oahu to Have a Memorable Time in Hawaii

There’s no doubt that you’ll make tons of fun memories in Hawaii following this detailed, jam-packed five-day itinerary for Oahu! With so many fun things to do in Oahu, you’re guaranteed to have a wonderful time. Which of the days on this itinerary for Oahu sounds the most fun to you?

Pin This 5-Day Itinerary for Oahu for Later

Did you love reading this 5-Day Itinerary for Oahu? Check out these other posts about Oahu to help you plan your trip to the Aloha State:

• 10 Best Things to Do in Waikiki, Hawaii  
• Perfect Day on North Shore, Hawaii  
• 16 Best Places to Eat on Oahu, Hawaii  
• 15 Best Things to Do on Oahu for Free  
• 16 Best Resorts on Oahu for a Luxury Beachfront Getaway
• Is Oahu in Honolulu? The Difference Between Oahu, Honolulu & Waikiki

About the Author

Brittany Sawyer

Hi, I'm Brit! I'm a writer from Phoenix, AZ who loves coffee, golden retriever puppies, and obviously, travel! I help ordinary women (like me!) dream, plan, and do extraordinary travel experiences.

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The Perfect 5-Day Oahu, Hawaii Itinerary For Couples

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Turquoise blue waters, white and black sand beaches, fruity tropical drinks, and vibrant printed shirts — the islands of Hawaii are a top bucket list destination for many travelers. Five days on Oahu is perfect, a day to explore each of the island’s distinct and diverse regions, each with their own flavor and personality.

Five days to explore the entire island will let you see most of the top spots, but really absorb the chill vibe, you might love staying for one more gorgeous Hawaiian sunset. This Pacific Ocean paradise has everything you need: gorgeous beaches, surfing, kayaking, hiking, waterfalls, lush tropical gardens, whale watching, and more.

Oahu is the perfect spot to explore the aloha spirit, kick back, and enjoy a relaxing vacation.

Day 1: South Shore – Honolulu

Humming with a busy city buzz, Honolulu is filled with all the history and drama you would expect to see in a state capital. With the hip Waikiki neighborhood and the infamous Diamond Head , you will easily spend the entire day (or more) exploring this part of your Oahu itinerary.

Beach Hopping

Waikiki beach.

Waikiki Beach is a beautiful, long stretch of sandy beaches perfect for the see and be seen crowd. The Waikiki Beach area is the quintessential Hawaiian islands beach day. Beautiful people paired with lots of glitz and glamor. Not to mention beautiful hotels that are perfect for your stay on Oahu.

Hanauma Bay

Hanauma Bay State Park is a nature preserve specifically for marine life protection. The underwater park is perfect for snorkeling; the showy display of colorful fish will be on your list of top snorkeling experiences — ever.

Pro Tip: Hanauma Bay is closed Monday and Tuesday. There is a $25 per person entrance fee.

Diamond Head

The iconic Diamond Head State Monument is a photo opportunity not to be missed on any Oahu itinerary. The easy out and back hike takes you along a paved path and more than a few stairs for the steep, 1.8-mile climb; up, up, up.

Pro Tip: Diamond Head requires nominal entrance and parking fees for non-residents. Advanced reservations are required.

Iolani Palace

Formerly the official royal residence of King Kalakaua and his sister Queen Liliuokalani, Iolani Palace offers visitors a glimpse inside the world of Hawaii Kings and Queens. The original Hawaii Five-O fans will recognize this downtown Honolulu landmark as the show’s home base.

Statue Of King Kamehameha I

Towering over the entrance of the Hawaii State Supreme Court is the Statue of King Kamehameha I . The statue honors the man, the king, who changed Hawaiian history by unifying the four Hawaiian Islands. The statue is across the street from Iolani Palace making it an easy stop on your Oahu itinerary.

Day 2: Windward Coast

Traversing along Oahu’s Windward Coast offers guests panoramic scenic vistas filled with beaches, lush valleys, and Hawaiian history. As you drive along the rich coastline hemmed in by the Ko’olau Mountain Range, you are privileged to explore Oahu’s gorgeous natural gifts.

Kailua Beach Park

Kailua Beach is known for its wonderful warm water and offshore trade winds. It is one of the best spots on the island for on-the-water sports like windsurfing, kitesurfing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. Kailua Beach Adventures offers a 2-hour, guided kayaking excursion through a feeding ground for sea turtles. It is a perfect kayaking paddle for beginners. Adventure seekers will love Kailua Beach Adventures kayak surfing experience.

Lanikai Beach

Lanikai Beach is the quintessentially gorgeous Hawaii beach. Also known as Kaʻōhao Beach, you will fall in love with the soft blue water surrounding island views. This is the best spot to sit and soak up the island lifestyle and sunshine.

Kualoa Ranch

Kualoa Ranch is beyond gorgeous. The 4,000-acre private nature reserve is home to exciting off-roading tours including a Jurassic Adventure Tour, a UTV Raptor Tour, Jurassic Valley Zipline Tour, and many other exciting adventures for the island daredevil experience. 

Polynesian Cultural Center Luau

The Polynesian Cultural Center is a living history museum. It is well known for entertaining and educating visitors on Hawaii tradition. The center offers several traditional luau packages that include a flower lei greeting and buffet dining at the Alii Luau.

Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden

Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden is a 400-acre nature conservatory where visitors can relax and simply enjoy the fruits and flowers of the tropical Hawaii landscape.

Byodo-in Temple

The non-practicing, Buddhist Byodo-in Temple is located in the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park. It was dedicated to commemorating the 100th anniversary of the first Japanese immigrants arriving in Hawaii. It is a peaceful spot for a quiet moment of reflection and meditation.

Day 3: North Shore

The laid-back surfer vibe drives the North Shore culture casting a happy, beach life attitude across Oahu’s northern coastline.

Hawaiian Shave Ice

Enjoying a refreshing Hawaiian shave ice at Matsumoto Shave Ice is a must-do as you traverse Oahu’s North Shore. Lychee, Yuzu, and many others are tasty frozen treats.

Turtle Bay is a beautiful North Shore beach and all the beaches in Hawaii are public. If you want to make this North Shore paradise your home for the week, Turtle Bay Resort is a luxurious option. Golfing, surfing, horseback riding, even a helicopter tour are waiting for your arrival.

When you think of surfers tackling giant waves, you are thinking of Waimea Bay . In the winter, giant 30-foot waves test surfers’ limits and internal fortitude. Grab your binoculars, find a great viewing spot, and admire these daring athletes while they ride huge waves.

Waimea Ahupua’a

Waimea Valley is an ahupua‘a , one of the wedge-shaped sections of land stretching from the mountains to the sea that divide the island. Historically, the land was divided so each section had access to important resources they needed to survive. Each ahupua‘a had access to water, trees, plants, etc. Waimea Valley is a lush and abundant ahupua‘a , a beautiful spot for a scenic drive.

One of the most famous snorkeling beaches on the North Shore is Shark’s Cove at Pupukea. The underwater marine life darts in and out of the small ledges and caves, playing in the water for your viewing enjoyment.

Pro Tip: Be sure to purchase reef-safe sunscreen before you head out to snorkel — it is required in Hawaii.

Surfing Lessons

The North Shore is the place to take surfing lessons. Join the crowd and grab a board in the laid-back surf town of Haleiwa. North Shore Oahu Surf School offers 2-hour classes for newbie wave runners and experienced surfers.

9 Dazzling Oahu Vacation Rentals On The North Shore

Day 4: Central Oahu

Pearl harbor national memorial.

The Pearl Harbor National Memorial is an emotional stop for many Oahu visitors. Walking the grounds, reading the names, and exploring the memorial sites is an intensely personal moment.

USS Arizona Memorial

Tickets to visit the USS Arizona Memorial are free but reservations are required. Reservation slots open 8 weeks in advance for this bucket-list visit.

USS Battleship Missouri Memorial

Tickets are available online to visit the USS Battleship Missouri Memorial .

Dole Plantation

The famous Dole Plantation is a staple on the Oahu itinerary. Enjoy the Pineapple Express Train or Plantation Garden Tour while you learn about the history of the Dole Plantation and its sweet and juicy crop.

Wahiawa Botanical Garden

When you are in search of some cooling shade, the Wahiawa Botanical Garden offers 27 acres of tropical rainforest habitat. It is perfect for an immersive stroll through Oahu’s greenery.

Day 5: Leeward Coast

The Leeward Coast is a popular tourist destination with gorgeous resorts, beaches, and golf.

Ko Olina Resort

Tiki-lit strolls along white sand beaches, piña coladas poolside, and colorful tropical flowers in bloom aim to get you in a relaxing I-am-on-vacation mode.

The Ko Olina Resort area is home to some of the biggest names in luxury resort vacations: The Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina; Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa; Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club; and the Beach Villas at Ko Olina.

Makaha Beach

Known for its world-famous surfing waves, Makaha Beach regularly has up to 25-foot waves during the winter surfing season. Not ready to hang 10 with the professionals, watching them tackle the waves on the beach will get any sports fan on their feet.

Extra Day Island Hopping

If you have a few extra days and want to spend one island hopping, many of the islands are just a short flight away . In 30 baggage-free minutes, you can be at Lihue Airport on Kauai, Kahului Airport or Kapalua-West Maui Airport on Maui. Lanai Airport is only 25 minutes, and Molokai Airport is a mere 20-minute puddle jump.

Play like an islander and day trip to another beach, golf resort, or ride around on a different island. Imagine hopping a flight to try a new restaurant and a walk on the beach — very romantic.

Beach Safety

Hawaii’s ocean conditions change regularly. Visit HIOceanSafety.com for up-to-the-minute surf, wind, and public safety at the Hawaiian Beaches.

This full Oahu itinerary touches on many of the classic tourist attractions and unique experiences. No matter how you visit Oahu, you will love every beautiful minute.

Experience the island vibe on Oahu with articles like these:

• 10 Dazzling Oahu Vacation Rentals On The North Shore
• 9 Fabulous Experiences In Oahu, Hawaii For Mature Travelers
• The 18 Best Places To Visit In Hawaii

Sandi loves writing about culture, cuisine, adult beverages, cruising, golf, skiing, road trips, hiking, New England, and photography. Traveling solo, with hubby Chris, or the entire Barrett clan there is always a story waiting to be told.

The Ultimate 5 Day Maui Itinerary – 15 Best Things to Do in Maui, Hawaii

From swimming with dolphins and beach time to exciting jungle hikes, these are the best things to do on a 5-day Maui Itinerary!

Between its stunning beaches, active volcanoes, lush jungles and wild and varied landscapes, Maui is the perfect spot for a tropical island getaway!

Whether you’re looking to lounge on the beach or spend a holiday filled with fun and adventure, Maui offers something for every type of traveller. 5 days will give you just enough time to squeeze in as much sun, natural beauty and adventure as possible!

To help you truly maximise your time, I’ve popped together an awesome 5-day Maui itinerary. It features all of the best things to do in Maui, plus lots of travel tips to help you make the most of your Hawaiian holiday!

The Ultimate 5 Day Maui Itinerary 

Experience a once-in-a-lifetime sunrise .

One of the most romantic things to do in Hawaii is watch a breathtaking sunrise over Haleakala National Park . It’s quite ambitious to organise alone, so I’d recommend booking this guided tour , where a guide will take care of all the details.

You’ll be picked up from your hotel and driven to the national park’s 10,023-foot summit just in time to view the sunrise. The panoramic views from up here are mind-blowing, with vistas all the way to the crater floor.

You’ll finish the morning with a tasty breakfast at the historic Kula Lodge, before returning back to your hotel to rest!

Visit a Unique Black Sand Beach 

Have you ever seen a black sand beach before? If you’re used to seeing tropical white sand, you’ll feel like your eyes are deceiving you! Because of constant volcanic activity, many of Hawaii’s beaches take on the striking black colour!

Maui’s most famous black sand beach, Honokalani, is located about three miles north of the town of Hana. It’s considered sacred by the Hawaiian people too, so don’t miss out on seeing this beautiful and culturally significant natural wonder! It’s an absolute must for any 5-day Maui itinerary.

Enjoy Dinner and a Show at Old Lahaina Luau

One of the best things to do in Maui is experiencing the vibrant local culture. At the Old Lahaina Luau , you can take part in an evening of traditional Hawaiian hospitality, food and entertainment. This is all in a beautiful oceanside setting! You’ll get to enjoy a 5-course Hawaiian meal and open bar, all while watching an authentic Hawaiian Luau.

Explore the Fascinating Molokini Crater

The Molokini Crater is all that’s left of a volcanic eruption that occurred more than 230,000 years ago. The area is now a refuge for a variety of marine and bird wildlife.

It’s a wonderful place for swimming, scuba diving, snorkelling and whale watching. While you can’t swim to the Molokini Crater itself, there are plenty of guided tours such as this one that depart from Maalaea Harbor.

Hike the Waihe’e Ridge Trail

The Waihe’e Ridge Trail is one of Maui’s best hiking trails. This scenic 2-5 mile trek offers spectacular views, varied landscapes and plenty of beautiful flora and fauna. The trail leads you to a viewpoint on one of Maui’s highest ridges where you can take in stunning views of the West Maui Mountains. 

Take a Snorkelling Tour in Lahaina Turtle Town 

If you’re looking for fun and adventurous things to do in Maui, how about booking a snorkelling tour? On this guided snorkelling cruise , you’ll be able to swim with sea turtles and brightly coloured tropical fish amongst the coral reefs.

During whale season, you might even spot some humpback whales or dolphins in their natural habitat! Just imagine how incredible that would be!

Soak Up the Sun on Kaanapali Beach

With over three miles of pristine sandy beach and crystal clear water, there’s no better place to enjoy a day of sun, sand and surf than Kaanapali Beach.

Spend the day sunbathing or try out fun water sports like surfing and wakeboarding. Be sure to stay for sunset. Every evening around this time you can see a traditional cliff diving ceremony where cliff divers light lanterns along the ridgeline! It’s magical.

Go on a Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour 

If you’re spending 5 days in Maui, I’d definitely suggest you book a dolphin and whale watching tour. Seeing these amazing creatures in the wild is one of the highlights of visiting Maui. Did you know the Maui coast is one of the best places in North America to see dolphins. In fact, there are three varieties in this area: acrobatic spinner dolphins, friendly bottlenose and spotted dolphins

This guided cruise to goes along the Lanaʻi island coastline. On the way you’ll enjoy world-class snorkelling and whale-watching in an underwater oasis! Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for all sorts of marine life, including those friendly dolphins, whales, sea turtles and monk seals.

The tour also includes breakfast and a generous BBQ lunch. After all, you’ll definitely need to refuel after all that swimming!

Enjoy Delicious Fresh Seafood at the Paia Fish Market 

The Paia Fish Market is the best place in Maui to enjoy generous portions of fresh seafood at affordable prices. On any given day, you’ll see lines out the door as people take a break from surfing or shopping to enjoy delicious ocean-to-table seafood. Try the market’s specialties which include blackened sashimi, fish tacos and grilled mahi mahi. 

Visit the Stunning Pools of ‘Ohe’o (aka Seven Sacred Pools)

No five-day Maui Itinerary would be complete without a visit to the Seven Sacred Pools in East Maui. If you’re looking for a day of adventure, the most accessible of these pools are well suited for swimming and cliff jumping.

You can also just bring a picnic lunch and relax amongst the beautiful scenery. This is one of the best things to do in Maui with kids . Just don’t forget to take lots of photos!

Visit Hawaii’s Best Snorkelling Spot 

With colourful coral reefs and schools of tropical fish, Honolua Bay is often considered to be Hawaii’s best snorkelling beach.

The crystal clear waters here offer perfect views of the coral gardens and abundant wildlife, even at great distances. Just make sure you add reef-safe sunscreen to your packing list to protect this fragile ecosystem. 

Enjoy a Refreshing Dip at the Upper Waikani Falls

While many waterfalls in Hawaii take some serious hiking to reach, Upper Waikani Falls is accessible to everyone. This waterfall is located around milepost 19 on the famous Hana Highway.

The falls cascade over the rocks to form the perfect swimming hole underneath. If you’re short on time (or feeling lazy!) you can even check out the falls from the comfort of your car!

Go Cliff Jumping at Black Rock Beach 

If you’re spending 5 days in Maui and looking for something adventurous to try, how about taking a trip to Black Rock Beach for some cliff jumping? Ancient Hawaiians believed that Black Rock was the place where spirits jumped over the cliffs to be with their ancestors forever. These days, Black Rock is a popular place amongst the locals for swimming, cliff jumping and all sorts of other adventures.

Treat Yourself to Massage on the beach

If you’re busy planning your Maui itinerary, definitely schedule in some relaxation time. One of the best options is to book an ocean-side massage at the Four Seasons Resort .

Savour the cool tropical breezes from your own open-air hut whilst enjoying the spectacular views of Wailea Beach. You could finish your massage with some more luxurious spa treatments such as facials or body scrubs. It’s one of the best 5-star resorts in Hawaii , and the ideal spot for a honeymoon or romantic getaway.

Take a Scenic Walk in Iao Valley State Park 

Iao Valley State Park is a natural oasis that is home to one of Maui’s most recognisable landmarks: the 1,200-foot ʻ Īao Needle . The trails in the park are well-marked and easy to travel, making this an ideal hiking destination for all. Even the kids will enjoy this one.

Take a rainforest walk or explore interactive exhibits at the Hawaiʻi Nature Center – it’s a lovely spot to visit for families to visit in Maui.

8 Practical Tips For Your Trip To Maui

• Rent a Car: Maui has diverse landscapes and attractions scattered across the island. Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore everything, from the stunning Road to Hana to Haleakalā National Park.
• Pack Sun Protection: Maui is known for its beautiful beaches and abundant sunshine. Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from the strong UV rays.
• Stay in Different Areas: Consider splitting your stay between different areas of the island to experience its varied landscapes and vibes. Lahaina, Wailea, and Paia all offer unique experiences.
• Check for Beach Conditions: Before heading to the beach, check the ocean conditions and follow any posted warnings. Maui’s beaches can have strong currents, so be cautious and swim in designated areas.
• Respect Wildlife and Nature: Maui is home to various endangered species, including the Hawaiian green sea turtle (honu). Keep a safe distance from wildlife, don’t touch the turtles, and avoid disturbing nesting birds.
• Plan Your Haleakalā Sunrise: If you plan to visit Haleakalā National Park for the sunrise, make a reservation in advance. The sunrise viewing area has limited parking, and it can get crowded.
• Try Local Cuisine: Maui boasts a vibrant food scene. Don’t miss trying Hawaiian specialties like loco moco, poi, and fresh poke. Visit local food trucks and farmers’ markets for authentic flavors.
• Hike Safely: If you plan to go hiking, especially in remote areas, let someone know your plans, and carry essentials like water, snacks, a map, and a first-aid kit. Weather can change quickly, so be prepared for different conditions.

Remember to immerse yourself in the island’s culture and aloha spirit while respecting the natural environment. Maui offers a diverse range of activities and sights, so take your time to enjoy the island’s beauty.

If you’re planning on visiting beautiful Maui, 5 days is just enough time to check out the island’s highlights! If you’re also looking for places to stay on the island, don’t miss my guide to the best honeymoon resorts in Maui. 

Or for other Hawaii travel tips, check out all of these handy guides:

• 5 Day Big Island Itinerary: 15 Best Things To Do On The Big Island, Hawaii 

The Best Islands in Hawaii for Honeymoons and Couples Holidays

The best luxury and boutique hotels in waikiki, hawaii, how to have the ultimate adventure in hawaii, 14 amazing things to do on your first holiday in hawaii, diamond head hike, honolulu, hawaii.

• The Ultimate 5 Day Maui Itinerary: 15 Best Things to Do in Maui, Hawaii 

Plan Your Trip With These Hawaii Travel Blogs

From adventurous hikes and island hopping, to restaurants, luxury hotels and tours, these Hawaii travel blogs are guaranteed to help plan your trip!

Visiting Hawaii? From Oahu and Maui, to The Big Island, Lanai and Kauai, find out the best islands in Hawaii for honeymoons and couples holidays.

Lava fields, secret waterfalls, huge surf, a unique mix of terrains and even an active volcano, Hawaii is made for an adventure lover like me.

From spectacular ocean views to rooftop infinity pools and great restaurants, these are the best luxury and boutique hotels in Waikiki.

5 Day Oahu Itinerary: 17 Amazing Things To Do In Oahu, Hawaii 

From visiting Waikiki Beach and hiking Diamond Head to helicopter flights and movie tours, these are the best things to do in Oahu, Hawaii.

5 Day Big Island Itinerary: 15 Best Things To Do On The Big Island, Hawaii 

Swim with manta rays, visit a Hawaiian black sand beach and hike over lava fields on this amazing 5-day Big Island itinerary.

The Best Honeymoon Resorts In Maui, Hawaii

From chic beach resorts where you can walk straight onto the sand, to luxurious spa hotels and fine dining experiences, these are the best honeymoon resorts in Maui, Hawaii.

From discovering secret waterfalls and stargazing, to checking out the epic surf and catching a glimpse of an erupting volcano, Hawaii is full of surprises! This Hawaii travel blog will give you a flavour of all the amazing things to do on the islands.

The Diamond Head hike in Oahu, Hawaii offers some of the best views of Honolulu along with a chance to check out an incredible ancient crater!

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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5 Day Kauai Itinerary

Five days on the hawaii island of kauai.

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Explore Kauai in 5 Days

Kauai five-day itinerary suggestions.

At some point in planning your vacation to Kauai , it’s probably going to hit you, “Wow, this is a lot harder than I thought it’d be... there’s so much to do.”  Welcome to the state where the possibilities for activities and adventures are limitless, to where you’ll likely never find yourself bored unless you refuse to leave your hotel room. This portion of our website is here to help you focus on planning your trip and should allow you to organize what you want to do into simple itineraries.  Planning your vacation doesn’t have to be a chore, and hopefully, our recommendations will be of assistance in your preparation.

We’ve designed our Kauai itineraries around a set number of on-island Kauai days: offering one , three , five , and seven-day itineraries for exploring the island, soaking in the best sights, and ensuring your precious time, and potentially money, on Kauai are put to use wisely. We’ve tried to balance our itineraries between those who seek adventure and those looking to find a good beach and relax. Overall, we want your experience to be exactly what you’ve dreamed of when planning your Kauai trip.

We’ve provided all Kauai directions via Google Maps when possible, as Google Maps works on all platforms and across all devices. You should be able to pop the directions into your phone or tablet and go. To help you visualize each day’s itinerary, we’ve also provided overview maps that help you get your bearings.

Our five-day Kauai itinerary below includes many of the recommendations in our three-day Kauai itinerary , plus some other must-see sights, attractions, and activities for the extra two days on the island. Skip ahead to the 5-day itinerary now →

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Visiting Kauai soon? Be sure to grab your copy of one of our updated Kauai Visitor Guides .

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Overview of Kauai -  the ‘Garden Isle’

Kauai is the fourth largest landmass in the Hawaiian island chain that includes eight major islands and 124 islets. The archipelago consists of numerous volcanic islands in the central Pacific Ocean stretching in a 1,500-mile crescent from Kure Island in the northwest to the Big Island of Hawai‘i in the east, encompassing an area of 6,459 square miles. The eight major islands at the eastern end of the chain are, from west to east, Niihau, Kaua‘i, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe, Maui, and the Big Island of Hawai‘i. 

Our journey begins on the island of Kauai. Kauai is the oldest of all the main Hawaiian Islands, dating back some 5.1 million years. Kaua‘i lies approximately 105 miles across the Kauai Channel, northwest of Oahu. The island is nearly circular in shape with a land area encompassing 533 square miles, which is 25 miles long by 33 miles wide at its furthest points. Of volcanic origin, the highest peaks on this mountainous island are Kawaikini, at 5,243 feet, followed by Mount Wai‘ale‘ale near the center of the island, at 5,148 feet above sea level. The wettest spot on earth, with an annual average rainfall of 450-470 inches, is located on the east side of Mount Wai‘ale‘ale. This high annual rainfall has eroded deep valleys in the central mountain, carving out ridges, canyons, and valleys with many scenic waterfalls. 

The city of Lihue, on the island’s southeast coast, is the seat of Kauai County and the largest city on the island.  Waimea, on the island’s southwest side and once the capital of Kauai, was the first place visited by explorer Captain James Cook in 1778. Waimea Town is located at the mouth of the Waimea River, whose flow formed one of the most scenic canyons in the world, 3000 foot deep Waimea Canyon. Mark Twain once dubbed it the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” 

Kauai is also home to the U.S. Navy’s Pacific Missile Range Facility. It’s tucked away in the canyons near Waimea, and unless you go looking for it, you’ll never even know it is there.

Kaua‘i 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 has no road near it – and a lot of folks honestly like it that way. Kauai has roads stretching around it from the northwest coast, starting at Ke‘e Beach, moving clockwise along the eastern coast (through Kapa‘a and Lihue) and then around to the west coast (through Hanapepe and Waimea). Finally, it heads north up to the ridges of Waimea and Koke‘e State Park overlooking the inaccessible Na Pali coast on the west side of the island. There is no way to drive from Waimea/Koke‘e to the starting point, and there likely never will be (you’ll have to turn around). The Alaka‘i Swamp has stumped the U.S. Corps of Engineers on more than one occasion. The army’s telephone poles from the last world war are all that remains of any attempt to navigate that part of the island.  But don’t worry, you can still see many of the wonders of Kauai by doing a bit of hiking. In our daily itineraries, in the adventure section especially, we’ll take you on a few of our favorite trails.

Accommodations on Kauai & Where to Stay Summary

On Kauai, you’re probably staying in one of three geographic locations - on the north shore near Princeville, in one of the many hotels that line the Coconut Coast along the east shore, or down south in the Poipu resort area. If you haven’t yet decided where to stay on Kauai, we can help with that too, be sure to check out our  Where to Stay on Kauai  article for the best tips and suggestions on where to book your stay. Don’t worry if one of the three areas noted above isn’t you’re starting point, as there are a number of accommodations, b&bs, inns, etc scattered across the island. Regardless of where you’re staying, we’ll still help you plan accordingly.

Be sure to also read our  Best time to Visit Kauai  article for an in-depth look at which time of year is best to book for your travel party on Kauai.

Getting Around Kauai

On Kauai, a rental car is definitely the best option for getting around the island and viewing all the sights we detail in our itineraries. The rental rates in Hawaii are often some of the cheapest anywhere in the world because the competition is fierce.

There is no bus service on the island and taxi services are both expensive and illogical for sight-seeing purposes. Mopeds and bikes can be a practical alternative for day excursions along with the drier south shore, but are not as useful in other parts of the island, especially where steep inclines prevail such as on Waimea Canyon Drive in west Kauai.

Summary of what to pack on your Kauai trip

Regardless of how much you’ve traveled in the past and where you’ve been, there is one good rule to follow when coming to Hawaii, leave as much as you can at home. Seriously, bring only what you’ll need during your stay and nothing more. For starters, schlepping around three suitcases is NOT what you want to be doing after getting off a long plane ride. Next, consider that long pants, dress clothes, and anything else formal really have no use in Hawai‘i (unless you are staying in a very exclusive resort). Chances are a pair of shorts and an old Aloha shirt are all you’ll need for even some fine dining.

As far as clothing goes, that’s usually a few pairs of shorts, several T-shirts, sandals or flip-flops (slippahs as Hawaii residents call them), and a good visor or hat, anything made of a cotton blend is usually good. A light jacket might also be nice for those visits to higher elevations.

With the motto, “less is more” in mind, here are a few other items to bring. Sunblock (the UV on Hawai‘i is typically 10+ in the spring, summer, and fall), a backpack (for any hikes) and a water bottle, slippers (flip flops, shower shoes, zoris), mask, snorkel, and fins (or rent locally instead), two bathing suits (one to wear while the other dries) and a cover-up, your phone or a camera, lightweight raincoat or poncho (for mountain/rain forest hiking), bug spray with DEET (for any forest hikes), flashlight (if the sun goes down before your hike ends or for night walks on the beach), hiking boots and hiking rods, and most importantly a list of all your troubles to leave behind.  For more information on what to pack, seeing our What to Pack When Visiting Hawaii article.

Five Day Itinerary for Kauai

5-day kauai wayfinder guide.

We'll officially kick off our itinerary suggestions by quickly covering the days you both arrive and depart. While they are not completely a wash in terms of planning something to actively do or participate in those days, we like to keep them open and use them for relaxing after we arrive and before we depart.

Arrival Day on Kauai

Let the first day you arrive be a day to adjust to the islands. Grab a bite to eat, pick up supplies and/or groceries, enjoy your first Hawaiian sunset that evening, and get to bed early as it has likely been a long day. If you’re flying in from another island, as we often do, then some light sightseeing probably won’t be a problem once you’re set up with your new rental, etc. But generally, we advise people to take it easy the first day, soak in their local surroundings, and acclimate to Hawaiian time.

Departure Day from Kauai

Like your arrival day, this day is meant to wind down from your trip and prepare for your jump to another island or for the journey home. We suggest grabbing a bite to eat from one of your favorite local restaurants near your accommodation and maybe some final souvenir shopping at some of the many stores and local shops around the island. Undoubtedly, the local community would appreciate your business. In Hawaii there are no “Goodbye’s” - so we’ll say A Hui Hou, which in Hawaiian means ‘Until we meet again.’ Aloha!

Kauai 5-Day Essentials Itinerary 

We're working on our more advanced modular itinerary for Kauai, similar to how we've set up our Maui Itineraries . Until that is ready, check out our essentials Kauai itinerary to get you started.

Day 1: Beach Time

Let's start your adventure by visiting one of Kauai's stunning beaches. Head to Poipu Beach on the south shore, known for its golden sands and great snorkeling spots. Spend the day swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the vibrant underwater world. Don't forget to catch a mesmerizing sunset before enjoying a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Waimea Canyon and Hanapepe Town

Today, explore the breathtaking Waimea Canyon, often called the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific." Drive up to the Waimea Canyon Lookout and take in the awe-inspiring panoramic views. Go for a leisurely hike along one of the scenic trails to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this remarkable landscape. Afterward, visit the charming town of Hanapepe, known for its art galleries and nostalgic vibe. Stroll along the main street, browse the local shops, and capture memories of the Hanapepe Swinging Bridge.

Day 3: Napali Coast Boat Tour

Embark on an unforgettable boat tour along the iconic Napali Coast. Join a tour departing from the north or south shore to witness the dramatic cliffs, lush valleys, and cascading waterfalls of this rugged coastline. Keep an eye out for marine life like dolphins, sea turtles, and seasonal humpback whales. Your guide will provide fascinating insights into the geological wonders and cultural significance of the Napali Coast. Don't forget your camera to capture the natural beauty!

Day 4: Wailua River and Fern Grotto

Today, take a serene journey through the enchanting Wailua River Valley. Join a guided kayak or boat tour and glide through the lush tropical foliage, passing ancient Hawaiian sacred sites. Arrive at the Fern Grotto, a captivating lava rock cave adorned with hanging ferns. Immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance and enjoy the sounds of Hawaiian music. Afterward, visit the nearby Opaekaa Falls and explore the beautiful surroundings.

Day 5: Hanalei Bay and North Shore Bliss

Spend your final day exploring Hanalei, a picturesque town on Kauai's North Shore. Start your morning at Hanalei Bay, known for its golden sands and excellent surfing conditions. Relax on the beach, try your hand at surfing, or simply enjoy the stunning views. Afterward, explore the town's boutique shops, sample local treats, and visit historical sites like the Waioli Mission House. Take in the charm and beauty of Hanalei before bidding farewell to Kauai.

Itinerary Conclusion

Although a five-day trip allows for a shorter stay on the island, you can still experience the natural wonders, cultural richness, and breathtaking landscapes that make Kauai such a remarkable destination.

Enjoy your time on Kauai, make lasting memories, and carry the spirit of aloha with you as you depart from this lush and verdant tropical paradise.

Recommended Kauai Tours

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The Perfect Maui Itinerary: 5 Days in Tropical Paradise

From its pristine beaches peppered with a mahalo spirit to the excitement of a traditional luau, Maui is the perfect vacation destination. It’s a tropical paradise.

While many imagine Maui only as a beach destination, this stunning island has much more to offer than sun and sand. We recommend a 7-day trip. With the first and last days taken up by travel, you’ll have five days in Maui to explore the captivating crevasses of this idyllic island and discover what makes it so unique.

» Read about The Best Places to Stay in Maui.

When it comes down to planning your Maui travel itinerary, we’ve got you covered. You can swip our exact itinerary below, which will ensure an unforgettable experience. Or you can adjust it to fit you perfectly.

» Visiting several islands in Hawaii? Check out our guides to Oahu (with it’s gorgeous waterfall hikes ), top things to do in Maui , and be sure to use our Hawaii packing lis t to ensure you’ve got everything you need.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Maui is Enough?

Let me tell you, there are more places you can visit in Maui than you can get to in even a couple of weeks, so there is plenty to do to fill you itinerary, no matter how long you choose to stay.

A 3-day Maui itinerary might be a little too short to explore the top sights on this incredible island. It also will leave you trying to overstuff your Maui trip itinerary to the point where you forget to slow down and immerse yourself.

Since most Americans get just a few weeks of vacation a year, we find that most people take a week vacation to Maui. This is the perfect amount of time to see all the top sights and do some relaxing. You’ll have 5 days to get it all in, plus 2 half days on either end with traveling to and from.

⇒ See all of our  travel gear reviews . You may especially like our guide on the best travel pants , and comfortable travel clothes . Be sure to get a anti-theft travel purs e as well.

Who is this Itinerary Best For?

This itinerary is made for those who want to explore the island, see the top sights, and not spend a lot of time driving in between things. It’s got a little bit of adventure, but it’s not ideal for adventurers. It’s more laidback with not a lot of strenuous activity.

You’ll need a rental car to get around to the various parts of the island. There is an abundance of stunning roads to explore Maui’s beachy towns, but this itinerary focuses on cutting down on driving time.

With destinations within an hour-and-a-half driving range, you’ll be able to get lost in some of the island’s top highlights without the hassle of long road trips.

So, if you’re looking to focus on squeezing out every last drop of this island’s zesty pleasures without adding an abundance of hours dedicated to traveling, this itinerary is for you.

5 Days in Maui – Itinerary Breakdown

Take a look at this daily breakdown of what to expect from Maui’s well-known and hidden treasures. The best way to tackle this itinerary is to read it all over, plot it on the map, and then decide which day you want to do each activity or area. You can move them around as the weather permits, or as you see how you feel each day.

Most people will choose to stay in West Maui, at either Lahaina, the Ka’anapali resort area, or the super luxury area of Wailea. This puts you in close proximity of many of the activities in our itinerary.

Map of Itinerary Stops

Day 1: Kahului & Paia

After landing at the island’s main airport, Kahului Airport, you’ll be greeted by the palm-tree-dotted landscape of Kahului. If it’s your first visit and you arrive early enough in the day to get started with your sightseeing right away, you might want to see a few things in this area and nearby Paia before you set out to your hotel.

If you’d rather go straight to the hotel, or you landed late, you can always come back to this area on another day.

Situated on the northern coast of Maui, the city of Kahului has a wonderful selection of easy-going things to do. Make your way to Maui Nui Botanical Gardens to stroll through some of the wondrous native vegetation scattered around Maui.

If you’re interested in learning more about Hawaii’s sugarcane plantations, you can stop by the Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum to learn about sugar and plantation history.

If you have time, explore the bohemian burrow of Paia, which is about a 16 minutes drive. If you can make reservations in advance, stop at Mama’s Fish House for lunch or dinner. Then you can stop at Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice for a cold treat before heading back to your hotel.

Day 2: Lahaina & Nearby Attractions

A small harbor town located in West Maui, a day in Lahaina is a must-do in Maui, whether you’re staying there or not. What was once a popular whaling port is now a quaint area that still has some surviving remnants of the past.

You can also go whale watching on this up-close Maui whale watch tour from Lahaina . Other fun activities you might like to do include a kayaking and snorkeling tour , or a private surfing lesson .

One of the best things to do in Lahaina is to experience a traditional Hawaiian luau at night. At the luau, you’ll be served some delicious traditional Hawaiian cooking and then the entertainment begins with traditional dancing and a festive atmosphere celebrating the rich Hawaiian culture.

The Maui Nui Luau at the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa is one of the top luaus in the area. Here’s what to expect:

• Three-hour Kaanapali sunset luau feast served in three courses family-style
• Lei greeting and imu ceremony
• Polynesian dance show
• Different dances from across the Polynesian world
• Witness the Cliff Diver at Black Rock

Read more about Maui Nui Luau at the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa.

Day 3: Kaanapali & Kapalua

A mere 15 minute drive from Lahaina, you’ll find the gorgeous towns of Kaanapali and Kapalua, with glittering bays and luxurious resorts.

Head to Kaanapali Beach for watersports, such as sun-drenched swimming spots and some of the best snorkeling spots . If you’re looking for your heart to drop in an exciting plunge, you can go to Black Rock at the Northside for some cliff jumping.

Head to the Kapalua Coastal Trail for a hike along the ocean. This 2.5-mile walk is very easy with paved or boarded walkways most of the way.

Kapalua Bay is considered one of the  best snorkeling spots on Maui . Also in Kapalua, you’ll want to save time for the Dragon’s Teeth Trail  – just .5 miles round trip, where you will see unique rock formations that are said to look like dragon’s teeth.

Day 4: Molokini & Surrounds

Whether you’re planning to take a cruise out to Molokini, hitting the green at Wailea Golf Club, or looking to spot the friendly smiles of spinner dolphins at La Perouse Bay, there’s always something to do in this region.

A crescent-moon-shaped slab of greenery almost fully enveloped by aquamarine waters, Molokini will be one of the gems of your trip to Maui. Molokini is a volcanic crater within the ocean, blessed with tons of fish.

This roughly 6-hour Molokini and Turtle Town snorkeling adventure gives you an opportunity to cruise out to the crater, swimming in a sunken volcano, snorkel around to see the amazing tropical fish and sea turtles, and it includes brunch and lunch on board.

Day 5: Iao Valley and/or Road to Hana

While this drive is one of the longest of the bunch, just over an hour long, the trip is well worth the time on the road to experience the emerald green haven of Iao Valley. It is classified as a National Natural Landmark.

Make your way to the Iao Valley State Park to explore some of Maui’s most phenomenal natural landscape. This 4,000-acre, 10-mile long park is home to one of Maui’s most recognizable landmarks, the 1,200-foot Iao Needle. There’s a quick walking trail to view the needle from the parking lot ($5).

There are lots of hikes to do as well. Take a tour with a guide. This will give you the opportunity to learn the history of Iao Valley’s ecology.

Road to Hana

We don’t usually recommend the drive to Hana in a short itinerary of Maui because it’s a long drive and will take you most of the day to do, even though it doesn’t “look” long on the map. From Iao Valley, it is a 2 1/2 hour drive to Hana. If you’re going to do it, we recommend combining it with an early morning trip to Iao Valley.

Leave the valley early, after your morning hikes, then head out to Hana, through Kahului. Mama’s Fish House is on the way, if you didn’t get a chance to stop there on the first day.

There are many sights to see on the road, which you can see here . You’ll want to plan for at least 6 hours, or to stay over night, if you want to see it all and not at a breakneck speed.

Another way to experience the road to Hana without having to drive yourself along the twisty roads is on a tour . Let an experienced guide show you around instead.

Top Tips on Planning a Trip to Maui

While the easygoing island lifestyle is an attitude worth adopting on your trip, you’ll have to plan ahead if you want to experience the island to its fullest. Take a look at these top tips for making your ocean-filled getaway one to remember:

• Start early – In order to beat the sea of tourists flocking to the main tourist attractions each day, you can start your day by rising with the sun. An added bonus is that a Maui sunrise is an exquisite experience.
• Take something warm – While you might think its all sunshine and summer weather, some towns have higher altitudes than others. Add a lightweight jacket to your packing list to ensure you keep the shivers at bay.
• Eat local – With a heavy stream of visitors to this island, tourist trap establishments are bound to appear with hefty prices attached to them. Look for those charming hole-in-the-wall eateries to ensure you sample the real taste of Maui with all its phenomenal flavor.

Final Thoughts on Maui 5 day Itinerary

Whether planning a fantastic island getaway with friends or looking for the best Maui honeymoon itinerary, this traveling schedule will cover you.

From daredevil activities to finding your inner beach bum on the sandy shore, a five-day trip in this lavish land will have you delving into all facets of your vacation personality.

Be Prepared For Travel Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

• Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
• Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
• Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
• Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE

10 Things to Do in Hawaii for a Unique Vacation

12 Fun Things to do in Oahu

10 Fun Things to Do in Maui

6 Gorgeous Waterfall Hikes in Oahu to Discover

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Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

2 thoughts on “ The Perfect Maui Itinerary: 5 Days in Tropical Paradise ”

Another option would be a kayak, snorkel , hime half day trip. You can easily do that and go to a luau later and fill the day out nicely. The petroglyphs at Olawalu is a nice side trip on the way to the Iao valley as well. Adda a little historical and cultural appreciation to your trip

Hike* I believe the company name is hike maui or something like that. You get a guide for each step of the dau as well as a sack lunch

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5 Days in Maui: The Maui Itinerary You’ll Want to Copy

last Updated: December 1, 2023 hawaii maui

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Headed to Hawaii and looking for a Maui itinerary that’ll show you the best of the best of the island? Keep reading for the perfect 5 days in Maui, which will cover everything you need to know and then some!

Imagine sunrise at Maui’s famous volcano , snorkeling with sea turtles , a drive down the famed (and for good reason) Road to Hana , and more shave ice than you ever thought possible.

Maui (and Hawaii in general ) is a place I could revisit time and time again. And lucky you, I’ve not only compiled all of my best island tips, but I’ve perfected the most varied Maui itinerary you can imagine.

The island is full of white (and black) sandy beaches, dolphins and sea turtles playing in the water, mouth-watering food (fresh fish, anyone?), and you can’t forget about that cool cool island breeze. I’d go back tomorrow in a heartbeat if I could.

There’s just something about island life that really calls to me. Maybe it’s the fact that I can literally wear sundresses, bikinis, and sandals everyday, or the fact that the sea turtles and tropical fish are just steps away (once you get into the ocean of course).

And with over 275 sunny days a year, Maui’s weather is truly hard to beat (okay, maybe it rivals that of Orange County or San Diego , but who’s counting)?

And thankfully, now that we live on the West Coast, Hawaii is like our new Caribbean, and we aim to visit at least once a year. Fiiiiine by me. 🙂 We’ve recently spent a few days in Kauai , and I’m still telling everyone how I celebrated my 30th birthday by jumping out of a plane and eating everything in sight in Oahu .

Island Hopping in Hawaii:  Planning on doing some island hopping? Check out these additional resources:

• The Perfect 5 Day Oahu Itinerary
• 3 Days in Kauai  (well worth a few days!)
• 10 Days in Hawaii  (ultimate island-hopping resource)
• The Ultimate Hawaii Bucket List
• 25+ Places to Eat in Oahu   (foodies trip, anyone?!)

So pack up your swim and snorkel gear, start looking at flights to Hawaii, and use this Maui guide to craft your perfect 5 day Maui itinerary! But first, a whole lotta logistics:

Logistics for your 5 days in Maui

When to visit maui.

Thankfully, there’s not really a bad time to visit Maui, as the weather is pretty much fantastic no matter the month. The warm tropical climate is consistent year round, and you’ll find daytime highs in the mid-80s in the summer, and daytime highs in the mid-70s during the “winter” months.

If you’re looking for dry weather, avoid visiting between November through March, as this is when Maui receives the majority of it’s rain. Thinking of visiting then? Don’t fret – rain showers are short, usually only lasting for a few minutes, and then bringing back the clear skies and sunshine. And plus – that’s prime time for rainbow spotting!

Looking to save a bit of money (aren’t we all)?! Visit Maui in either the spring (late March – May) or fall (September – early November). You’ll likely be able to find deals on accommodation, as well as experience less crowds.

Hoping to catch a glimpse of those majestic humpback whales migrating down the Pacific from Alaska? From January – March, Maui is the best spot in the states to observe this migration.

How to Get to Maui

So here’s the thing: getting to Maui can be pretty expensive. Unless you’re coming straight from the West Coast, most flights will have a layover in Honolulu (on Oahu ), but don’t let that deter you. Maui’s by far our favorite island, just trust me on that!

When you fly into Maui, you’ll be heading into Kahululi Airport (code OGG).  Make sure to look out the window upon descent — the turquoise waters will blow you away before you even touch land.

Flights from SFO (San Francisco) to Maui are roughly 5 hours, 20 minutes, with the flight from LAX (Los Angeles) being slightly longer at 5 hours, 40 minutes. I normally find flights from the West Coast to Hawaii for approximately $450, although I’ve seen them offered as low as in the $300’s roundtrip.

A few tips for saving on airfare:

• I swear by Skyscanner and Google Flights , and always always always use these two sites when looking for airfare.  The option to watch prices and get email notifications are top notch and one of my favorite features of the two.  
• And now that Southwest has routes from California to Hawaii , flight prices have gotten even more competitive. Look out for those $200 round trip tickets from the west coast (they go fast so snag them up as soon as you see them)!
• Do some flight comparisons . You may want to first check prices from your home airport directly to Maui, and then compare those with the flight prices to SFO/LAX and then onto Maui from there. Sometimes it may be worth it to fly into California first.

Not only will you possibly save a few pennies on the flights, but you can spend a few days in California (while adjusting to West Coast time zone, ultimately helping with jet lag in Hawaii) and get two trips outta one!

Where to Stay on 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 lots of vacation rentals. 

There are accommodation options all over the island, including Kapalua , Kaanapali , Lahaina , Kihei , Makena and Wailea . Note that if you’re hoping to break up the Road to Hana into two days, there’s only one resort in Hana in East Maui, the Travaasa Hana (best to book this ASAP).

The bulk of the visitors to Maui stay in either Kaanapali, Lahaina, or South Maui (Kihei or Wailea), which is where the majority of the high-end resorts and rentals are.

West Maui: Kaanapali and Lahaina

Kaanapali and Lahaina are resort communities in west Maui, roughly 10 minutes apart. You can get a place there and essentially never have to leave the area. And plus, this side of the island boasts some of the most beautiful beaches on the island, in my opinion (check out the photos of Napili Bay below).

However, there’s not much nightlife as things close early, so our dinners were our primarily “activity” come night time. We found this totally fine because by the end of the day we were downright pooped! In addition, because of it’s high popularity, the streets, beaches, and restaurants are usually fairly crowded, especially in high season.

We’ve stayed at both the Aston Kaanapali Shores (absolutely loved the pool and garden area) and the Kaanapali Beach Hotel (fantastic budget option super close to famous Black Rock beach). We’ve also stayed in vacation rentals Maui a few times when we knew we’d be out exploring (and not taking advantage of resort amenities) each day.

Recommended Hotels in Kaanapali: Aston Kaanapali Shores | The Westin Maui Resort + Spa | Hyatt Regency Maui | Sheraton Maui Resort + Spa

South Maui: Kihei and Wailea

In Kihei you’ll find plenty of laid-back condo rentals and hotel options for those more on a budget (~$100-200ish). Like West Maui, Kihei has tons of restaurants, stores, and supermarkets that are all within a few blocks of each other and easily accessible by foot.

Kihei in general is more of a local’s beach town, so you’ll find less tourists and more peace and quiet for the most part. Do note that you’ll most likely have to drive 5-10 minutes to find beaches suitable for swimming and snorkeling. But because of its central location between Lahaina and Wailea, breathtaking beaches aren’t too far!

Recommended Hotels in Kihei: Maui Coast Hotel | Nona Lani Cottages | Maui Beach Vacation Club (condo rentals)

Wailea is known for its massive five star resort destinations, which often come with a hefty price tag. However, like Kihei, the area is much more laid-back than lively Lahaina and Kaanapali, and thus there’s not as many activities nearby.  If you’re looking for a more quiet and luxurious upscale place to stay, choose Wailea.

Recommended Hotels in Wailea: Hotel Wailea (Adults Only) | Four Seasons Resort | Andaz Maui | Grand Wailea

How to Get Around Maui

Maui is a larger island than you may think. If you plan to drive the Road to Hana , head to Paia , and/or catch the sunrise at Haleakala sans tour, public transport just won’t cut it. Planning on following this Maui itinerary? You’ll undoubtedly need to rent a car.

I like to search  via this site  in order to compare rental companies to see who has the best price.  Feeling a bit extra? Splurge on a convertible or an open-air jeep – this is Hawaii afterall! Treat yo-self! 

Search for the cheapest car rentals over here !

Realllllly don’t wanna rent a car? Thankfully, Maui had a pretty decent bus system, but unfortunately, it’s pretty time consuming and doesn’t go everrryyyywhere. Rates are $2 per ride and $4 for a day pass. See this site for bus maps and rules: co.maui.hi.us .

Note that the bus does not go up to Haleakala Volcano (you could take this tour though), and it doesn’t drive out to Hana (opt for a tour similar to this one ), which are both imperative on any Maui itinerary in my opinion.

If you’re strongly against renting a car (which I’m not really sure why not…), please oh please sign up for tours as you’d REALLY be missing out on two absolutely necessary Maui must-do adventures.

Although the public bus system does in fact make the trek out to the airport, you’d be better off getting an airport shuttle at the beginning and tail end of your trip when flying out since the regular bus doesn’t allow any luggage (unless you can hold it on your lap!).

Also, there are transfer companies to get you from the airport ot your hotel/condo/vacation rental, but by the time you pay that twice, you could pay for a rental car for the duration of your 5 days in Maui.

Maui Packing List

When packing for your trip, you wanna make sure you’ve got all the right clothing and gear for everything you’ve planned for your Maui itinerary. Think about the activities you’ll be doing, and prepare for those! 

Everyone will need their typical everyday clothing (shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, etc). A few pairs of shoes is a good idea — I recommend bringing a pair of flip flops, sandals, dressy shoes (for a nice dinner out), and sneakers/hiking boots if you’re planning on doing some hiking.

Women’s Packing List:  You’ll obviously need all your favorite beach attire, including bathing suits (buy a few new ones!), beach cover-ups, loose cotton dresses, a cute sun hat, casual and dressy sandals, 

Psst: Women — If you’re planning on taking a surf lesson, be sure to pack a bathing suit that stays put and has good support. You don’t wanna fall out if you accidentally wipe out! :p

Men’s Packing List:  Be cool and casual during the day (my husband loves short sleeve button downs for a more polished look), but be sure to check the dress code for any restaurants you really wanna go to. Men might need pants and dress shoes to enter.

Other Miscellaneous Items to Pack for Maui

• Polarized sunglasses  (better for blocking out the harsh UV rays)
• Beach bag   and/or  backpack : make sure it’s large enough to fit a beach towel or two!
• Hat/s : The sun is strong here! I love taking a  wide-brimmed sun hat  for the beach and a  fun trucker hat  when hiking.
• If your Maui itinerary includes a bunch of snorkeling around the island, you’ll probably save some cash by bringing your own  mask and snorkel .
• A  waterproof kindle  or other e-reader for reading at the beach (I’d be worried a physical book may accidentally get wet!)
• Your hotel may give you towels, but we love traveling with a  sand-free beach mat
• Reusable water bottle : better for the environment and a must for hiking!
• Reef Safe sunscreen  (always use when in the water, as other sunscreen is harmful to marine life): We love  ThinkSport  (make sure the bottles are less than 3.4 ounces if you’re bringing them in your carryon)! Don’t forget about  SLP lip balm  as well!
• Aloe Vera Gel : always have some handy in case you get a sunburn; aloe will give the burn some much-needed relief
• Dramamine : This will help with motion sickness if you’re planning to do a snorkeling or boat tour (the waves can get rough!).
• Underwater camera :  All my underwater photography tips and gear here . I’d check out an  underwater phone case , too.
• Portable battery charger : Charge your phone on the go and never run out of a charge
• Noise-cancelling headphones : Great for both the plane and the beach! I’m obsessed with my  AirPods  and Noah loves his  Bose Quiet Comforts .
• Tote bag : Plastic bags are banned in Maui, so bring your own for shopping! I love  this collapsible reusable tote bag  (hardly takes up any room in your suitcase).

An Important Note on Hawaiian Wildlife

One of the big draws of any trip to Maui ( and Hawaii in general ) is the possibility to see wildlife. Think plenty of tropical fish (including Hawaii’s state fish, the humuhumunukunukuapua’a – and yes, that’s how it spelled), sea turtles (both in water and resting on land), dolphins and humpback whales jumping in and out of water, and wild boar (be careful when driving on remote roads).

PLEASE keep wildlife WILD. NEVER attempt to chase/touch/pet/feed ANY wild animal. This can potentially do harm to these beloved creatures, and possibly cause unnecessary distress.

Always stay at least 100 feet from any animal you encounter, and when snorkeling, NEVER touch/chase sea turtles (it’s actually a crime, and you can get a hefty fine) or any other fish/dolphin you may come across. Get your photos, but NEVER do it at the expense of the animals.

And while we’re on that note – shy away from plastic straws and other unnecessary plastic when on the island (it’ll most likely end up in the ocean). If you buy a pack of drinks (whether it be POG juice, beers, etc), always make sure to cut up that silly plastic holding all the drinks together. Thank you. 🙂

And now what you’ve been waiting for, a complete 5 day Maui itinerary!

Maui Itinerary: The Perfect 5 Days in Maui

Day 0: fly into hawaii.

As noted above, I 98% have the best luck scoring “cheap” flights to Hawaii using either Skyscanner or Google Flights . “Cheap” is in quotes because I can never seem to find any flights below $400 for our travel dates, but that’s probably because we either go during a holiday weekend and/or don’t have the option to travel mid-week.

I’ve seen offers for as low as $300ish from LAX or SFO, so if you’ve got more flexibility, you may just get lucky! I also heard that Southwest has a new flight route from SFO to the Hawaiian Islands, so be sure to check that out as well!

Sleep : Lahaina or Kaanapali

Important Note : Many of the mornings on this Maui itinerary start in the early AM. While I highly suggest you experience the restaurant nightlife, I also recommend getting a good night’s sleep each and every night. And with the Hawaiian sun beaming down on you all day, I have a feeling that falling asleep each night won’t be a problem.

Day 1: Sunrise at Haleakala Crater, then Beach Time

On our first official full day in Maui, we’re waking up at 2am! Yup, you read that right – 2 o’clock in the morning, my friends. Sure, the super early morning wake up call won’t be much fun, but trust me, sunrise at Haleakala is worth it . And then some.

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.

Why sunrise on the first day? Depending on where you’re coming from, you’ll most likely have a case of major jet lag. Use this to your advantage! If you’re flying in from the East Coast USA, 2am will actually feel more like 8am. Not so terrible now, am I right?

Sunrise at the Haleakala summit is super popular, so arrive at least 30 minutes before sunrise. (Check exact sunrise times here – bottom of page, but know that the sun rises between 5:30am – 7am depending on the time of year.) You’ll have to drive the winding 38 mile Crater Road in the dark, so plan to leave even earlier than you think.

Note that since sunrise at Haleakala has become so incredibly popular, you now need to make reservations in advance. Individual spots can fill up quickly since there are only 150 parking spaces available. Make reservations here or take the easy way out and book with a certified tour operator (who takes care of your transportation to and from the summit as well as any documentation/advanced reservation requirements).

Read Next: How to Score Sunrise Tickets to Haleakala!

And once sunrise hits, don’t leave right away! You’ll want to hang around the summit and Haleakala Visitors Center in order to get some great photos – the colors of the valley become more vibrant about 15-20 minutes afterwards. If you decided to make the grueling long drive yourself, grab some hot cocoa from Kula Lodge before you leave the area.

Word of advice: Bring Warm Clothes. Yes, it’s Maui, but the temperature drops about 3º for every 1000 feet of elevation, meaning it’ll be about 30º colder than at sea level from where most people watch the sunrise. I didn’t bundle up enough and I was freezing my butt off.

Take a scarf, alllll the sweatshirts you brought with you, your hotel blanket if you’re feeling a bit extra, and layer, layer, layer. You’ll thank me later when you’re standing there comfortably watching the sunrise at 9,740 feet.

Spend the rest of the afternoon taking it easy and relaxing at the beach, be it Kihei, Kaanapali, Wailea, etc. No matter where you’re staying on the island you’ll find sandy spots and ocean waves nearby.

If you want something low-key to do at night, book yourself on a sunset catamaran dinner cruise . Truuuust me, that Maui sunset is like no else, especially from the water. And how cool would it be to see the sunrise and the sunset in the same day? 

Sleep: Lahaina or Kaanapali

Day 2: Lahaina and North Maui

Since you’re probably utterly exhausted from yesterday’s early morning wake up call, take the morning to sleep in (only a little bit) and plan to spend the day around Lahaina and the areas nearbyi. If you’re staying in Kaanapali or Lahaina you won’t have very far to go today for all of the activities listed below:

1. Short Road Trip Up North: If you’re tired of the beach (say what?!) and up for a mini roadie, jump in the car and head to Napili Bay, Nakalele Blowhole, and Makaluapuna Point. Napili Bay is a super popular spot for snorkeling with the Green Hawaiian Sea Turtles, and you won’t want to miss breakfast at the open-aired Gazebo Restaurant (get the fried rice and white chocolate macadamia nut pancakes – just do it).

2. Get Your Snorkel On: The snorkeling at Black Rock in Kaanapali (right in front of the Sheraton and Kaanapali Beach Hotel) is A++, so you don’t need to go super far to swim around with the fish and turtles! Mornings tend to be easier since the waves and trades aren’t as high yet.

Read Next: All My Favorite Places to Go Snorkeling in Maui

Note that the beach can be somewhat crowded and you’ll be sharing the waters with lots of other beach goers, so the water can appear a bit dark and dirty (from everyone kicked the sand on the ocean floor below).

If you want that crystal clear water you’re probably dreaming about, head north to Kapalua and/or Honolua Bay , which both feature tide-less swimming holes perfect for splashing around (and snorkeling) during the summer, and great surf watch if the waves are too rough (usually in winter).

And if you want to ensure some top-notch snorkeling today, take a day trip from Lahaina to Lanai or, as mentioned before, crystal clear Honolua Bay .

3. Hang in Lahaina: Promise me you won’t miss Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice (kinda an institution around these parts with some of the best shave ice on the island), shopping at Whalers Village, the huuuuge banyan tree, Hula pie and fish tacos at Dukes (go on an empty stomach — it’s all absolutely to-die for), and some fresh acai at Baya Bowls.

We also enjoyed some fresh fruit juice at Olowalu Juice Stand a few minutes south.

4. Luau in Lahaina: It’s impossible to travel all the way to Hawaii without experiencing a traditional luau first hand.  With all the music, exotic dancing, and delicious FOOD , this is surely a night not to be missed.

And thankfully, there’s two fantastic options right in the heart of Lahaina: 1. The Feast at Lele and 2. The Old Lahaina Luau .

We ultimately chose the Feast at Lele for a few reasons: the food is brought out individually (meaning no buffet), private comfy tables vs. benched seating with those you don’t know, and there’s a fire knife dance. Yup, it was just as energetic and vigorous at it sounds.

But no matter which luau you choose, be sure to make reservations super early on when planning. They both book up quite fast, and the earlier you book a spot, the better a table you’ll get (closer to the performances). Book Feast at Lele here , and Old Lahaina Luau here .

Read Next: The Feast at Lele vs. The Old Lahaina Luau

Day 3: Snorkel at Molokini and Turtle Town

Early morning wake-up #2 – but don’t worry, today’s another epic day. If you thought the snorkeling at Black Rock was top notch, just waaaaait until you get in the waters at Molokini and Turtle Town. Psst – they don’t call it Turtle Town for ‘nothin!

Today you’ll need to book a snorkeling tour since there’s no possible way to hit up these snorkel spots yourself, well, unless you can afford to charter your own boat ($$$$$).

Choose a tour like this one that includes both breakfast and lunch (BBQ on a boat, anyone?), gets you to the snorkel spots before the masses of other tourists arrive, and includes top-notch snorkeling equipment. Yup, that’s why we’re getting our butts up at 6am! Book tour to Molokini and Turtle Town here

Molokini : Ever thought you’d be snorkeling inside of a sunken Hawaiian volcano? Yup, that was my first thought when I learned more about Molokini. Known for its fabulous underwater life and visibility of up to 150 feet, this crescent-shaped partially submerged volcanic crater (from 230,000 years ago!!!) is one of Maui’s prime snorkeling hot spots.

And that it was. Once I eased into the water, I had a super hard time focusing; there was just SO much to see. On our particular tour we encountered pinktail durgons, black triggerfish, ornate butterfly fish, red pencil urchins, yellow tangs, trumpetfish, coronet fish, a kaleidoscope of coral along the ocean’s bottom, and more unidentifiable (by me) sea creatures.

Told you I didn’t want to return back to the boat. And with over 250 species of endemic fish and marine life, I can guarantee you’ll see a whole bunch.

If you’re lucky, you’ll also see picasso triggerfish (also known as the humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa in Hawaiian – try saying that name correctly), which is Hawaii’s state fish, manta rays, and moray eels.

Turtle Town : Ahhhhh – sorry, I have a hard time containing my excitement when I even think about swimming with the turtles (known as honus in Hawaii). There’s just something so majestic about these (larger-than-you-realize but) graceful creatures swimming below the surface.

And when I visited, I found it absolutely crazy how incredibly close the sea turtles came near me.  In more instances than one, I had to swim away in fear that I would accidentally touch it’s fin or shell (a huge no-no in Hawaii).  

Note that it’s ILLEGAL to touch a honu; these Hawaiian green sea turtles are federally protected and it’s harmful (and ILLEGAL) to touch, feed, or harass them. Just don’t do it. For the sake of the sea turtles. Keep your distance as much as possible.

Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see a turtle right away. Sea turtles hide in caves or under big rocks, and sometimes just sit in the sand on the bottom for periods of time. Basically, they are not always visible at first, and you must patiently wait for them to come up for air (which they need to do since they don’t breathe underwater).

Look all around you: below, in front, behind, etc… you never know when they will come up and surprise you.  Feast your eyes on the seafloor too much, and you may see a shark (which may be a good or bad thing depending on your anxiety levels…)

Book tour to Molokini and Turtle Town here

It’s a good idea to note that the waters (at both snorkel sites) are at their calmest during early morning hours, so if a tour doesn’t start until 9am or later, that’s a bad sign. You should essentially get picked up between 6-7am-ish to ensure prime snorkeling conditions.

If you’re wondering what equipment I used to take these underwater photos, all that info can be found right here (along with some tips on underwater photography). It’s not as easy as it looks, trust me!

And sometimes it’s better to just relax and enjoy the experience. Yes, I say take a whole bunch of photos, but remember to put the camera down and be one with the fish as well. 🙂

Since the tour starts early, you’ll have the rest of the day to either continue exploring Lahaina or rest up at the beach. Consider eating at Monkey Pod Kitchen for a fantastic view, Ono Tacos for a food truck lunch or dinner, or Sale Pepe for some intoxifying Italian food.

Day 4: Maui from Above and Paia Town

Morning: Helicopter tour

What’s better than a helicopter ride over Maui? Start your morning wanderings by booking yourself the West Maui and Molokai tour with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters . Not only will you be utterly amazed at all the wowness below you from 1000’s of feet, but you’ll actually learn a lot about the island too!

When soothing helicopter-esque music wasn’t playing out of our headphones, our pilot was answering all our crazy island questions and teaching us all-things Maui. On the helicopter tour you’ll see misty mountains, towering waterfalls, coral reefs from above (an absolutely spectacular thing), and even have the chance to spot whales and manta ray from afar.

Read Next: Soaring Above Majestic Maui: A Maui Helicopter Tour

Worried about nausea and possible sickness? No need to fret – the entire ride was super smooth and pleasant. Thankfully all of the pilots are super A++++ and the company utilizes the latest safety techniques and procedures.

Soaring over Maui in a helicopter is one of my favorite Hawaii experiences to date! I mean, just look at these photos. 

Visiting a few islands and not sure which to plan your heli adventure on? Check out our heli experience in Kauai (loads of pretty pictures) to help make up your mind! Both are worthy, but there’s nothing like soaring over the Na Pali coastline.

Top Tips: Be sure to wear dark colors during the duration of your helicopter tour, as black will have the least reflection on the glass windows. Wear light colors and you’re risking horrible glares and reflections, making excellent photography downright impossible.

Be courteous to those on your helicopter tour and just wear all black (at least on top), and you’ll keep the nasty glares (from people and the helicopter window) at bay.

If you’re like me and can’t envision yourself wearing black the rest of the day, keep a change of clothes in your rental car and plan to swap into your true summer attire afterwards.

Afternoon: Wander around Paia and Hit Up the Beach Once More

The helicopter tour starts at the airport, so why not stick around the area and explore Paia , a super laid back, surfer hippie town roughly 15 minutes away.

Here you’ll find colorful murals and a not-to-miss surfboard fence (located on Baldwin Ave), a bunch of cute boutique shops (my favorites being To the Moon and Back for jewelry, and Alice in Hulaland for random , and plenty of hip acai and smoothie spots.

Need some coffee? Pick up a to-go cup at the absolute cutest greenery-filled shop in the area, Paia Bay Coffee Company.

Looking for a relaxing outdoor spot for lunch after the helicopter tour? Head to Paia Inn Cafe and get some avocado toast, cold-pressed juices, and the cardamom french toast and eat on the patio. Open from 8:00am-1:00pm daily.

You may want to make a reservation – seating is limited and this place is popular (you’ll see)! And if you can’t score a reservation or the place just happens to be closed for a private event (which it was when we were there), hop across the street to the Paia Fish Market Restaurant for some fresh fish tacos.

If you’re sick of wandering around town (but really, it’s just soooo cute and artsy), head back to the beach! Luckily this area has quite a few of them! Don’t miss Ho’okipa Beach Park (there’s Hawaiian sea turtles over here!), Baldwin Beach, and Lha Bab Peace Stupa!

Don’t mind making a short detour? Drive 20 minutes south of the airport to Wow Wow Lemonade for you guessed it – lemonade!

Read Next: My HUGE Guide to Paia (with all my favorite beaches and eats!)

Night: Dinner at Mama’s Fish House

Make your first official fresh fish dinner in Maui a great one, at no other than the famous Mama’s Fish House. You’ll want to make a reservation in advance, as this place is exceptionally popular (and for good reason).

And while the food’s absolutely mouthwatering and will surely cost a pretty penny, the setting is even more memorable and you’ll leave having eaten one of your best meals on Maui.

Sleep:   Pain Inn in Paia

If you want to get a short head start on the next day’s activities (the infamous but tiring Road to Hana), you may want to consider sleeping in Paia the night before. You’ll save about an hour’s worth of driving which may help you stay ahead of the crowds on the drive. Up to you!

Check out some hotels in Paia here.

Bed early because tomorrow’s a long and exhausting day!

Day 5: The Road to Hana

The Road to Hana is one you will never forget and an absolute highlight on any Maui itinerary. The drive is not for the fearful though- with 52 miles of winding roads (complete with plenty of one lane bridges, hairpin turns, and rocky cliffs), you’ll want to make sure you get plenty of rest the night before!

Highway 36 (known as the Road to Hana) is one of the most famous highways in the entire country and takes about 3 hours, but you’ll want to carve out an entire day on your Maui itinerary to linger around. And trust me, there are lots of stops on the road you just won’t want to miss! Black sand beach, anyone?!

Remember, if you’re staying in Lahaina or Paia or anywhere else other than where you end up on your drive, you’ll need to make your way back to where you came from. And that means even more driving time. Be sure to back some road trip snacks, read my Road to Hana guide in advance (sure to help while on the road).

If you don’t feel comfortable driving back in the dark or would rather let someone else do the driving (letting you take in all the sights care-free), book yourself on a Road to Hana tour.

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September 22, 2020 at 9:37 am

Wonderful article! We will be traveling to Maui May 2021. I appreciate all the information you shared. Thank you Jess!

December 8, 2020 at 12:25 pm

Good itinerary. What I would like to see from all these itineraries are a cost. Throw in what your total cost was. And if there are varying options, go cost per activity after all fees/taxes so we can add up our choices. Not sure why everyone is afraid to put a number on all of this when it is the most important part to travel for the majority of visitors. Let's care about financial wealth as we enjoy travel.

January 7, 2021 at 9:07 pm

Jessica, Remember Hawaii is part of the United States. We are referred to as the mainland. I recommend doing lunch at Mama's fish house. Don't forget the winery on the island.

January 7, 2021 at 10:48 pm

Yes, of course! Did I insinuate that Hawaii isn't part of the USA? We LOVE Mama's, any time of day!

January 10, 2021 at 5:24 pm

Great call on the Gazebo in Kapalua. Fantastic pancakes and fried rice in the same place. Crazy

January 13, 2021 at 1:13 pm

right?! We couldn't believe it either! Two of my favorite things all under one roof!

February 7, 2021 at 2:30 pm

Disagree about such a busy itinerary, renting a car and the benefits of Kihei.

Save the hustle and bustle for Oahu The advantage of staying in Kaanapali (or Napili, etc.) or for the honeymooners or high rollers, Wailea, is that most of the hotels/condos and restaurants are right on the beach ⛱ and one can walk. No need for a car. Or take the shuttle from Kaanapali to Lanai. Consequently, the emphasis is appropriately on the beach and relaxarion, which is why one visits Maui

Pacific overwater sunsets arre Maui's nightly show and should not be missed.

Whale watching boat toura should be included with any trip to Maui. Also "hiking" in the Iron Needle Valley should be included.

Kihei is not recommended. It is where Maui's locals live. Places are not walking distance like Kaanapali or Wailea, but located in mini mall shopping centers. Here a car is necessary.

Kihei ocean front dining is more like dining off Las Vegas Blvd, filled wirh cars, and the ocean in the distance. Not worth it, unless staying for 3 weeks.

February 24, 2021 at 12:49 pm

To each their own….

February 9, 2021 at 10:41 am

We're going to Maui for a week, from March 4-11, 2021. It's a special time, as it's our birthdays. First time going! We're super excited! Thanks for the post!

February 11, 2021 at 11:43 pm

You're going to LOVE Maui! It's one of our favorite places in the entire world! Have a great birthday trip!

February 15, 2021 at 6:01 pm

There are lots of different inns, hotels and bnb's in Hana.. The prices are much much less than Travasa.

February 15, 2021 at 9:54 pm

Ohhh so good to know! Do you have any recommendations?!

April 10, 2021 at 8:40 am

I'm going for my 40th in July. Not the best time, but I've lived in LA for 14 years and still haven't been!! So excited, but totally overwhelmed at all the things to do and what to book. There's going to be 6 of us and none of us like being in touristy hotels or areas, so trying to find somewhere that isn't a line of hotels and sunbathers. What's the best spot on Maui for that? We're trying to decide whether to to a week in Maui or Oahu and then we'll do a week in Kahaui.

Thanks so much for all this info. This is the first Hawaii blog post I've actually read in full! Super informative and well written. Thank you.

Oh, and where is that last picture? – of the trees with the steps through

May 24, 2021 at 7:29 pm

All of those mon turisty spots have disappeared. My local favorite spot is full of people and it used to be my private sanctuary. Just be happy to be here. If locals must share everything with tourists, you will have to share with other tourists as well. The great news is that it will be beautiful no matter what!

May 24, 2021 at 8:18 pm

There's not tons of non touristy spots anymore, but I'd have to say Paia if you like more of a relaxed atmosphere.

In regards to the last photo with the trees and steps, that's on the Pipiwai Trail on the Road to Hana!

Have a wonderful trip! The islands are gorgeous!

June 15, 2021 at 11:58 pm

I used to live there sounds like you wanna stay at the Kapalua villas!! Trust me

May 22, 2021 at 12:23 pm

If you drive to Hana… Be respectful and pull over and let locals pass on narrow roadway. We maybe sightseeing as visitors but locals are commuting to jobs, food market or school. Also, don't venture off of trails, Hawai'i is home to many endangered species, and you may inadvertently step on a few. Make sure your suntan lotion is not a pollutant. Don't visit if not VACCINATED….Hawaiians still remember the foreign diseases that decimated local populations in the 19th and early 20th Centuries. Enjoy, Maui No Ka Oi (Maui is the BEST).

May 24, 2021 at 7:27 pm

Thank you for this. Masks are a mandate, so definitely add that to your packing list. Maui is isolated and does not have healthcare or infastructure like the mainland. Please wear your mask, vaccinated or not, please dont bring your politics with you. Be kind to locals, its been a rough year, and its not as easy for us to leave as it is for most to get here, so no need complain! Things are not normal here for us yet, so please pack plenty of patience and Aloha, and you will experience that in return! Mahalo!

May 24, 2021 at 8:10 pm

100% agree with everything you said! We will definitely be bringing (and of course wearing) our masks next time we visit!

June 6, 2021 at 5:48 pm

Hi! I was wondering if i need a covid negative test from San Fransisco to Maui/Oahu and in between Maui-Oahu Thanks!

June 10, 2021 at 10:51 am

Yes, you need a negative COVID test to enter Hawaii from anywhere. At this time, you don't need a test to go to Oahu from Maui, but you need one from Oahu to Maui. Regardless, I highly recommend keeping on top of things as procedures have been changing all the time in regards to traveling to Hawaii. Have fun!

June 22, 2021 at 2:59 pm

Another "must" on the way back to your hotel from the "sunrise at the crater" is surfing goats dairy, really good cheese, and Ocean distillery. Great Vodkas and views as well.

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First-timer’s guide to Hawaii: 14 days, four islands, five flights, three rental cars and two missing hiking poles

• Updated: Apr. 19, 2024, 1:52 p.m. |
• Published: Apr. 18, 2024, 9:26 a.m.

Spectacular Waimea Canyon on Kauai, one of the highlights of a 14-day tour of the state. Susan Glaser, Cleveland.com

• Susan Glaser, cleveland.com

HONOLULU, Hawaii – Fourteen days, four islands, five flights – a lot could go wrong, I feared, as I planned my first-ever trip to Hawaii.

I’m happy to report that almost nothing did.

I could attribute that to good planning, but I know it took a good bit of luck, too.

Before and after my trip, the Kona airport on the Big Island was shut down due to cracks in the runway; Kilauea Volcano, also on the Big Island, threatened to erupt, possibly upending my plans; and high-wind warnings were keeping visitors out of the ocean early during my stay.

I worried about all these things and more, mostly for naught.

The weather cooperated, no flights were delayed and I got to swim in the water everywhere I went.

This was one of the more complicated trips I’ve planned, and I admit to being a bit nervous -- starting with my 6 a.m. departure from Cleveland on a blustery Saturday in February.

I booked a flight to Honolulu on United Airlines with a scant 50-minute connection in San Francisco. Turns out, it was plenty of time.

The only glitch? Apparently you’re not supposed to pack hiking poles in your carry-on bag. But even then, Transportation Security Administration officers waited to enforce that rule until I was headed back to Cleveland – so I was able to use the poles during the whole trip before leaving them behind at Lihue Airport on Kauai.

Traveling with only a carry-on bag was important to me because I was booked on five flights – from and to Cleveland, plus three interisland hops. A carry-on bag is typically free on both United and Hawaiian airlines, but a checked bag would have cost as much as $40 per flight.

So I packed light (kind of) and kept the souvenirs to a minimum.

I started my tour on Oahu, where my husband and I spent a single night. Although I enjoyed the afternoon on Waikiki Beach, our main reason for starting here was to tour Pearl Harbor National Memorial . It’s a must-see for every American.

From Honolulu, we flew to Maui for three full days of touring, followed by five days on the Big Island and five days on Kauai.

I scheduled Kauai last because I figured it would be my favorite island, as well as the most relaxing. I figured correctly on both counts.

We flew home from Kauai on an overnight flight to Denver, where we connected to Cleveland.

Among the highlights:

* Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island

* Supporting the businesses and chronicling the comeback of West Maui after devastating wildfires last summer

* The Road to Hana on Maui

* Hiking the Napali Coast on Kauai

* Snorkeling Kealakekua Bay on the Big Island

* Doors-off helicopter tour of Kauai

* Waimea Canyon on Kauai

There were certainly activities and attractions that we missed – notably stargazing atop Mauna Kea, the Big Island’s massive 13,796-foot-high volcano. Traveling from Cleveland in February, I wasn’t excited about donning full-winter gear for what typically is a cold, blustery tour. Still, I’m certain I missed something special.

Keeping costs down

No way around it – Hawaii is a very expensive destination, from hotel prices to rental cars to food. Though I considered this a bucket-list trip – and I wasn’t trying to keep to a strict budget -- I didn’t want to (completely) break the bank. I tried to keep overnight costs below $300 a night, and for the most part, I succeeded.

The helicopter tour was the single most expensive activity we did – $324 per person. But it was spectacular.

Food was expensive, too. We had access to a kitchen at most of the places we stayed and typically ate breakfast in our condo before heading out for the day. We could have made it cheaper by cooking dinner in our condo, but we opted to eat most dinners out.

Mai Tais at Duke's Kauai on the final night of a two-week Hawaiian tour. Susan Glaser, Cleveland.com

A taste of Hawaii

We ate seafood every day, tried Spam, poke and lots of shave ice. Among the highlights:

* Many, many Mai Tais. I’m not sure I’d ever had one of these rum drinks before, but I made up for it on this trip. The traditional Tiki drink combines rum, curacao, orgeat syrup and lime juice. The best I had was at Nalu’s South Shore Grill in Kihei, Maui. The food at Nalu’s was terrific, too.

* Spam musubi, a traditional Hawaiian lunch that was popular with plantation workers. It combines a slice of Spam, rice and nori (seaweed). I wasn’t sure I would like it, but I did – enjoyed at the Pine Tree Café near the Kona airport.

* A smorgasbord of traditional Hawaiian fare at the Island Breeze Luau at the Courtyard by Marriott Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel on the Big Island. Among the buffet items: poke, kalua pork, haupia, and poi – the bland, starchy paste that is made from the taro plant. It was the only Hawaiian food that I didn’t care for.

* Lots and lots of shave ice. I figured this was just a fancy snow cone, but I was wrong. The best shave ice I had combined delicate ice shavings atop ice cream, mochi, boba and a rainbow of flavors at a place called Aloha Icelabs in Waikiki.

Experiencing Hawaiian culture

I made an effort, too, to learn some Hawaiian history and experience culture during the trip.

Among our stops: Hulihee Palace , the summer house for King Kalakaua and Queen Kapiolani on Kailua-Kona; Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park , also on the Big Island, where the sacred Hikiau Heiau temple once stood; and Wailua River State Park on Kauai, where the remains of four major temples are part of the Wailua Heritage Trail.

Touring Hawaii’s Pearl Harbor, a history lesson and memorial service all in one

Maui after the fires: Hawaiian island is open, welcoming and absolutely stunning

Exploring the Big Island (which isn’t all that big): From Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to the Kona coast

No, you don’t need four-wheel drive in Hawaii, and other car rental tips

Five days on Kauai: North Shore vs. South Shore, and the view from a doors-off helicopter tour

No, you can’t take hiking poles in your carry-on bag (and other TSA misadventures)

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Oahu itinerary: 7 days in paradise

O ahu is the first stop for many visitors to Hawaii and it offers so many amazing things to do! It can be overwhelming figure out how to fit everything in. We’re taking out the guesswork by showing you the best Oahu itinerary for 7 days – you’ll explore stunning beaches, take in important historical sites, eat amazing food and get a taste of traditional Hawaiian culture.

We know that not everyone spends one week on Oahu, so we’ve structured our suggestions below to give you an Oahu itinerary for 3 days as well using the first half of the week itinerary – for practical reasons, this is basically a “Highlights of Honolulu” itinerary. If you’re debating how many days in Oahu, I certainly wouldn’t spend fewer than 3.

But stick with us! If you need an Oahu 4 day itinerary, you can just pick an additional day from the options based on your interests. If you’re staying on Oahu for four days or more, there are lots of awesome choices for activities and places to stay (besides Waikiki).

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Quick Planning: What to book NOW for 7 days on Oahu

To avoid disappointment, extra expenses and last-minute schedule scrambled you’ll want to book as much of your Oahu trip as possible well in advance. Go through this quick checklist and get everything arranged, then you can fill in the details later.

Must read tips for renting a car in Hawaii

Compare prices between RentalCars.com , Discount Hawaii Car Rental and Priceline

Accomodations

• Waikiki – Hilton Hawaiian Village or Hyatt Regency Waikiki
• North Shore – Turtle Bay Resort
• Ko Olina – Marriott Ko Olina or Disney Aulani
• Windward Coast – Paradise Bay Resort
• Budget-friendly vacation rentals
• Family-friendly vacation rentals
• Polynesian Cultural Center
• Kayking to Mokolua islands
• Surfing lessons
• Day 4: Mauna Kea summit tour and manta ray night snorkeling
• Day 5: Luau

Oahu Revealed

The must-have guide book for every Big Island trip

Oahu with Kids

In-depth ideas for families – written by a parent, for parents

What to pack

Where to stay on oahu.

Your exact itinerary depends somewhat on where you stay on Oahu – if you’re staying more than a few days, use this guide to help you decide. Here are a few quick picks by area:

If you’d rather save money on your accommodations and groceries by staying at a vacation rental, check out these budget-friendly rentals on Oahu or these awesome family-friendly vacation rentals on Oahu .

Getting around Oahu

Renting a car on oahu.

It can be tough to decide whether or not to rent a car on Oahu. On the one hand, a car gives you the freedom to come and go and to explore the best Oahu scenic drives. It also allows you to use your time most efficiently since you won’t be waiting around for a bus or trolley or making stops you don’t need. If you stay outside of the big city, you need to rent a car. Check here for the best prices.

At the same time, rental cars on Oahu can be surprisingly expensive and many hotels in Waikiki charge huge parking fees – think $45 per night, even if you end up spending the day lounging on the beach and don’t drive anywhere.

One potential option if you’re staying in Honolulu/Waikiki is to rely on walking, Uber and public transportation for part of the time and just rent a car for one or two days if you want to go further afield. It’s definitely worth pricing out a few options and comparing different companies .

Read more: 10 tips for renting a car in Hawaii

Uber on Oahu

Uber is legal in Hawaii, though with increasing regulation over the last few years and more on the way. Even so, state law recently changed to allow Uber and Lyft to pick up at airports. Uber is an easy way to get around southern Oahu, from Pearl Harbor to Hanauma Bay.

But it isn’t cheap. A one-way ride from Waikiki to Pearl Harbor or Hanauma Bay will cost around $30. You also may not be able to get a return ride from further reaches of the island like the North Shore.

Realistically, you probably need to rent a car if you’re planning an Oahu 7 day itinerary or you’ll wind up feeling trapped.

Read more: How to travel with car seats (without losing your cool)

TheBus on Oahu

You may be surprised to know that Oahu has better public transportation than many parts of the mainland! TheBus runs all over the island for just $2.75 per ride. Kids 6-17 pay just $1.25, while younger ones ride free on a parent’s lap.

TheBus can get you just about anywhere you’d want to go… but maybe not as quickly as you’d like. The ride from Waikiki to Pearl Harbor by car should be around half an hour in the morning, but a full hour on TheBus. Taking TheBus to Haleiwa requires around two hours – double what it would take you in a car.

Read more: How to visit Hawaii without going broke

Waikiki Trolley

An interesting option for visitors staying in Waikiki is the Waikiki Trolley , a hop-on-hop-off bus that hits all the Honolulu tourist hot spots. Unlike TheBus, there are very few stops on many of the lines. They’re even themed based on tourist interests: Pearl Harbor, Shopping, Dining and a super-fast Diamond Head Express!

The biggest downside of the Waikiki Trolley is the cost: a one-day pass will cost you $45 (but as of this writing includes the next day as a bonus), a four-day pass to use during a week is just over $60 online and a seven-day pass to use over ten days is around $70. Get the details here.

Want to plan the ultimate Oahu vacation? Click here for step-by-step Oahu travel planning help!

Activity shuttles

Since Oahu tourism operators know that many visitors prefer not to rent a car, they often offer transportation. Sometimes it’s included in the price of an activity, other times it’s an extra $10-15 per person. Many activities on the North Shore and Windward Coast offer pickup at Waikiki hotels. You’ll need to calculate how those costs add up compared with the cost of a rental car.

You can also book a Diamond Head tour or a Hanauma Bay tour if those sites are high on your priority list but you’re concerned about transportation.

Read more: What to pack for Hawaii

No matter how long you plan to stay on Oahu, three of your days on the island should look about the same. Start with this core of activities as you plan your Oahu itinerary.

An abbreviated Oahu itinerary for 3 days

If you’re planning to spend 3 days in Oahu, you’ll be able to see some of the island’s most famous highlights. Honolulu (and it’s famous touristy southern neighborhood, Waikiki) may not be the most charming part of the island, but for a quick visit it’s the most sensible home base.

Evening activities in Waikiki

Waikiki offers a few free noteworthy evening activities, but they depend on the day of the week.

On Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday you can watch a free hula show in Waikiki near the statue of Duke Kahanamoku at the Kuhio Beach hula stage. There were very skilled adult women performing and the kids also got a kick out of seeing girls their own ages up on stage! The evening kicks off with a torch lighting ceremony at 6:30pm (February – October) or 6pm (November – January). Arrive a little early to snag a good seat, and bring a blanket or travel towel to sit on.

On Fridays at 7:45 the Hilton Hawaiian Village has a lovely fireworks show that lasts about ten minutes. Even if you aren’t staying at the resort, you can get a great view of the fireworks along the coast while you dig your toes into the sand.

Read more: 10 Fun Things to do on Oahu for $10 or less

Essential Honolulu itinerary for first-time visitors

Day 1: recover and relax.

If you’re visiting Oahu from anywhere outside of Hawaii, you almost certainly have a big time zone change to contend with! Lucky for you, one of the best things to do on Oahu is spend a lazy day on some of the island’s gorgeous beaches. The fresh air and sunshine will help your body adjust to the new version of “day”. The only thing you need to plan is which beach you’ll visit – check out this roundup to find your perfect spot.

Day 2: Get a taste of the city

You may be on a tropical island, but Oahu offers so much more than beaches and palm trees. The island has fascinating history and culture that would be a shame to miss. So hang your swimsuit up to dry and head into the city for your second full day. Since you still won’t be fully adjusted to the Hawaiian time zone, take advantage of your early wake-up to pack in some of Oahu’s most important sites.

Start your day with a sobering trip to the Pearl Harbor historic sites to pay homage to those who died during the attack that catapulted the United States into World War II. You can visit the Pearl Harbor Visitors Center, USS Arizona Memorial (currently closed for repair until approximately Fall 2019), USS Bowfin submarine, USS Missouri battleship and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. The Visitors Center opens at 7am, with the first movie showing at 7:30am; other sites in the complex open at 7 or 8am. You can spend as little as two hours at the site or as long as several days depending on your interests!

Just a short drive from Pearl Harbor is a true gem: the Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, a place to celebrate and explore the history, culture and environment of Hawaii and its Pacific Island neighbors. This museum is so good that we visited twice when we went to Oahu, and nearly went a third time! It’s perhaps the most unique museum in Honolulu.

Some of the best exhibits are a planetarium show that teaches you how to be a wayfinder like the ancient Polynesians who first sailed to Hawaii, a showcase of the linguistic and cultural similarities of the islands that make up the “blue continent”, a simulated volcano where you go see real lava up close and personal, a garden full of endemic and culturally significant plants and so much more. To say that we loved the Bishop Museum is an understatement. If you are a member of an ASTC museum back home you can get in for free. Otherwise you can get discounted admission through the Entertainment Book or the Go Oahu card.

The final stop on your Honolulu tour is Iolani Palace. It’s America’s only royal palace, though sadly it was only in use as such for about a decade in the late 1800s. The audioguide tour teaches visitors about the struggle for Hawaii’s royalty (the ali’i ) to balance a desire for modernity with maintaining autonomy. We found the building beautiful and the story engaging. The tour provides important context for understanding the divided views among native Hawaiians today. You can visit Iolani Palace every day except Sunday, from 9am to 4pm.

Want to save money on these activities and more? See whether the Go Oahu card is the right choice for you.

The best way to end your day is with a gorgeous Hawaiian sunset. There are so many great places to see the sunset on Oahu, all along the island’s west coast. Since you’ve adjusted a little bit to the Hawaiian time zone, take the opportunity to check out one of the free evening activities mentioned above.

Day 3: Explore Oahu’s natural beauty

Even though Honolulu is a huge city, it’s also close to two of Oahu’s most famous places: Diamond Head and Hanauma Bay. Yes, the island offers other great easy hikes and other snorkeling options; but if you’re short on time, it’s hard to beat the convenience of these two!

Start your morning off with a refreshing walk up to the top of Diamond Head. Just grab a taxi or TheBus from your hotel: admission is $5 per car or $1 per person if you’re on foot. You can find more insight into the Diamond Head hike here, but in summary it’s a very manageable walk. The elevation gain is 500 ft and distance is 1.5 miles each way. However, the trail can be a little uneven so you need to wear either sneakers or hiking sandals, but boots or trail runners aren’t necessary.

You’ll appreciate the early start since much of the trail is unshaded. Even so, make sure to wear plenty of sunscreen ! Also be sure to have plenty of water on-hand, which we always find easiest with our Camelbaks . Don’t forget your camera for that classic Diamond Head view.

Read more: Check out these other great easy hikes on Oahu

Once you get back down to the parking area you can either pick up your rental car or grab one of the many waiting taxis and have them bring you straight to Hanauma Bay. The drive takes just over 20 minutes by car or about 45 minutes by bus.

This is one of the best snorkeling spots on Oahu, though admittedly it’s also one of the most crowded. You’ll pay $7.50 per adult to enter and $1 to park. Before entering the water, you need to watch a brief safety video – if you plan to return, register at the front of the movie so that you can skip it next time.

Don’t have your own snorkel gear ? No problem, you can rent it when you get down to the beach. You can expect to see all different types of fish and a wide variety of coral. The water is generally pretty shallow, so there’s no need for much swimming (or fins). For some of the best snorkeling at Hanauma Bay, head all the way to the left when you arrive at the beach and explore along the natural rock wall. If you’re worried about transportation or don’t want to deal with the logistics of renting snorkel gear, a guided tour of Hanauma Bay will help you enjoy a low-stress afternoon in the water.

What to bring to Hanauma Bay:

-reef-safe sunscreen – this is our new favorite!

– waterproof camera (we tried these and they didn’t work well underwater)

– snorkel gear (read our complete guide to kids snorkel gear if you have young ones with you) – don’t forget the defogger

– wet bag or waterproof beach bag for your swimsuit

-our favorite fish chart

Scheduling note: Hanauma Bay is closed every Tuesday to give the reef and its inhabitants a break. Feel free to swap day 2 and day 3 if need be!

If you’re saying goodbye after just those 3 days in Oahu, we wish you much aloha on your journey! Sticking around longer? Here’s the rest of your Oahu itinerary for 7 days (give or take a few).

Oahu itinerary for 7 days

If you’re staying on Oahu for more than just a few days, you might consider staying somewhere outside of Waikiki/Honolulu . It’ll be quieter and give you more of a feeling that you’re on a remote tropical island – which you are!

Day 4: The North Shore

One of the coolest parts of Oahu is the North Shore, and it’s worth spending a day exploring the area. There’s enough to do that if you love it you can definitely spend several days on the North Shore.

Read more: North Shore, Oahu: Finding Magic on Hawaii’s Busiest Island

We recommend starting your day on the North Shore with a visit to Waimea Valley . You’ll find the island’s most beautiful botanical gardens and several miles of walking trails leading to a (sometimes raging, sometimes swimmable) waterfall. Along the way you’ll have the opportunity to see traditional Hawaiian homes, play Hawaiian games and even meet local craftspeople selling their wares. Just remember that you’re in the jungle and apply bug spray liberally! Grab your tickets in advance to ensure your spot.

When you finish at Waimea Valley head across the street to Waimea Bay, home to the famed “jump rock”. I won’t tell you whether or not to jump – that’s your call! But you’ll find calm waters in the summer, boogie boarding waves in the shoulder seasons and some good surf in the winter when swells come to the North Shore.

If you’re a snorkeler, head north to Shark’s Cove (Pupukea) to explore the sea life in the rock pool. This isn’t nearly as developed a site as Hanauma Bay, so you’ll probably want to bring your own snorkel gear or buy a cheap set at Foodland. It’s also advisable to wear either fins or water shoes to protect your feet.

More interested in surfing (or at least the surfers)? You’ll find them a bit further north at Sunset Beach. This isn’t the best beach for little kids due to the steep drop off almost as soon as you enter the water, but in the shoulder seasons it can be good for boogie boarding. Even in October and November we spotted some surfers offshore just a little to the north. Once you get deeper into the winter swells, this is a great place to watch surfers on Oahu!

If you have some time in the evening, head to funky little Haleiwa town to soak up the quintessential Hawaii surfer vibe. While you’re there, grab some shave ice at Matsumoto or Aoki’s and then catch the lingering sunset.

Read more: Where to find the best shave ice on Oahu

A different evening option if you won’t be heading to the Polynesian Cultural Center (more on that below) is to attend the acclaimed Toa Luau at Waimea Valley . We’ve heard that it’s the best luau on Oahu! The festivities begin at 5pm with cultural activities and continue with dinner and a show long into the evening. The price of the luau ticket includes your admission to Waimea Valley, whether you choose to visit the valley first thing in the morning or shuffle the day around to arrive around 3pm to explore the gardens and waterfall before the luau begins. You’ll find more information here .

Day 5: Beach day!

After spending the last few days hustling around to explore the best of Oahu, it’s time to give yourself a break! Check out a new beach and bring a good book. This is an especially good time to check out the Windward Coast of Oahu, which offers spots like the soft white sands and crystal-clear snorkeling of Lanikai Beach and the perfect-for-boogie-boarding waves of Kailua Beach next door. Get more Oahu beach inspiration here.

If you do head to the Windward Coast, you have two great options for dinner:

-For cheap and casual food, head to The Hibachi in nearby Kaneohe for pupus and a huge range of incredibly fresh, delicious poke .

-For a nicer sit-down meal in a beautiful setting, go to Haleiwa Joe’s. The Kaneohe location backs onto the lush Ko’olau Range with a lovely garden below. It’s best before dark, so go on the early side to put your name down (the wait can easily be an hour!) and then stroll in the garden while you wait.

If you’re visiting with kids, this is a great day to schedule a Character Breakfast at Disney’s Aulani in Ko Olina and then spend the day at the tranquil lagoons nearby. It’s also worth hopping to nearby Paradise Cove to see if you can spot sea turtles lounging on the beach – it’s reported that you’ll have the best luck around mid-day.

Read more: Don’t miss these 10 things to do on Oahu with kids

Day 6: Try a new adventure

What’s a trip to Hawaii without a little adventure? Oahu’s got it all!

One of our favorite things to do on Oahu is kayaking in Kaneohe Bay on the Windward Coast. The water is fairly calm and you go visit some wonderful offshore spots like the Mokolua Islands or the sandbar. Bring your snorkel gear to dive in and explore the diverse sea life. If you’re really lucky (like we were) you’ll even get to swim with wild sea turtles on Oahu! Check out these two great options:

– Beginner and family-friendly kayak/snorkel trip in Kaneohe Bay – book here

– Adventurous kayaking and snorkeling to the Mokes – book here

Of course, Hawaii is the home of surfing. If you’ve never tried it before, there’s no time like the present. Waikiki is one of the best places to learn to surf thanks to the wide range of waves available. You’ll learn to surf fastest in a private lesson , but if you want to save a little money you can arrange a small group class too. There are even special lessons for kids !

Really want to get your adrenaline pumping? Try out parasailing on Oahu ! You can effortlessly glide hundreds of feet over the breathtaking scenery of Koko Head and the Ko’olau Range before landing gently on the nearby beach.

A new option on Oahu is ziplining on the North Shore! You’ll traverse eight ziplines as you enjoy views of the mountains, the ocean and a working farm in between. Get all the details here.

Day 7: Polynesian Cultural Center

You can’t leave Hawaii without getting a taste of native Hawaiian and Polynesian culture. There’s no better place to do it than at the Polynesian Cultural Center in Laie, on the east side of the North Shore. In case you don’t have a rental car, they offer paid transportation. You can even combine your PCC visit with an Oahu “circle island tour”.

The PCC offers thematic villages for each Polynesian nation where visitors can watch performances, participate in crafts and even try foods representative of the homelands of the staff. There is representation for Tonga, Fiji, Tahiti, Samoa, Aeotearoa (New Zealand) and of course Hawaii. There are other fun activities like the stunning pageant of canoes, ukulele lessons and a double-hulled sailing ship. Read our full review for more information and tips for visiting the Polynesian Cultural Center, or check out their stunning intro video .

Once the villages shut down in the evening, visitors can attend a luau (which has a big crowd) or opt for an entertainment-free dinner (there are several buffet options as well as sit-down dining and food trucks in the adjacent Hukilau Marketplace).

The real entertainment begins at 7:30 with the Ha: Breath of Life show in the theater. Unlike a luau that’s performed by a few people at a time on a small stage, this theatrical-quality show has over 100 performers – all Polynesian – intermixing traditional storytelling with captivating performances. There’s a good reason Hawaii Magazine has named it the state’s best live show and it won the Tripadvisor Traveler’s Choice Top 10 award for the US! You can see a preview of the show and reserve your tickets here .

Why should you visit the Polynesian Cultural Center on your last day? Because it’s a long day and the evening show doesn’t end until 9pm – the equivalent of 2 or 3am for east coasters. You’ll enjoy the experience more once you’ve adapted to aloha time!

Read more: Get our insider tips on visiting the Polynesian Cultural Center

Other amazing things to do on Oahu

The reality is that every traveler’s visit to Oahu will be a different experience. It all depends on your interests, your budget and even where you stay. Hopefully the Oahu itinerary suggestions above will serve as a starting point for your own travel plans for what to do in Oahu for a week. If some of our ideas don’t strike your fancy, there are plenty of other choices around!

-Spend more time at the beach. Visiting Oahu’s amazing beaches is never a bad choice! During our five weeks on the island we went to the beach roughly four times per week, with a mix of lounging, playing in the waves, snorkeling and boogie boarding. If you’re visiting Hawaii because you just need an escape, don’t feel bad cutting back on other activities in favor of r&r. It’s your vacation!

-Go sophisticated. One of the most interesting things to do in Honolulu (which we unfortunately didn’t get to) is a tour of Shangri La, actress Doris Duke’s Islamic-style mansion. It’s a division of the Honolulu Museum of Art, which has a diverse general collection and is particularly noted for Asian art.

A great free museum in Honolulu is HiSAM, the Hawaii State Art Museum. Unlike the HMA above, HiSAM focuses on art created by Hawaiians or inspired by the islands. HiSam also hosts Friday evening and Saturday afternoon events for the public once per month.

-Take a day trip to another island. Yes, it sounds a little crazy. But if you have enough time on Oahu you can island hop and still be back by dinner. No worries about checking into a new hotel and finding your way around a new place just for a short visit! Check out these options for a day trip to Kauai from Oahu , an Oahu to Maui day trip and even a Big Island day trip from Oahu (this last one is a little crazy given the flight time and the sheer size of the Big Island, but it’s a good choice if you really want to see BI and can’t count on making it back to Hawaii!).

If you’re feeling more intrepid, you can book inexpensive island-hopper flights yourself and then grab a rental car for the day .

Oahu itinerary FAQs

While you can scrape the surface of Oahu in 3 days, spending a week in Oahu is a much better choice to go beyond the all but the biggest tourist sites.

Not at all! We spent five weeks on Oahu and still didn’t visit everything. Unlike the other Hawaiian islands, Oahu has a large local population so there are plenty of activities and cultural institutions to choose from and mix into your beach days and adventure activities.

I’m partial to the quieter areas outside of Waikiki, though Waikiki is the best area to stay in Oahu if you don’t want to rent a car. This in-depth guide will help you choose the best place to stay on Oahu for your trip.

Oahu is fun any time of year, but the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) are less crowded and cheaper than school break times.

I recommend skipping the big Honolulu hotels entirely unless you absolutely can’t rent a car. There are better places to stay on Oahu .

More resources to plan your trip to Hawaii

See all of our Hawaii travel planning resources in one place

Travel planning resources:

Compare rental car prices for Hawaii

5 simple money-saving hacks for booking.com

General Hawaii resources:

How to visit Hawaii on a budget

Renting a car in Hawaii: 10 things you NEED to know What to pack for Hawaii

Is a cheap GoPro knock-off worth it?

Hawaii with kids:

What’s the best Hawaiian island for families? Is it worth visiting Hawaii with a baby?

Ultimate packing list for Hawaii with kids

Top 10 things to do with kids on Oahu

The best snorkel gear for kids of all ages

Oahu resources:

Best Oahu travel guide book Perfect 7 day Oahu itinerary Where to stay on Oahu

Family-friendly Oahu vacation rentals Cheap Places To Stay On Oahu

10 Fun Things to do on Oahu for $10 or less

Getting the most bang for your buck on your Go Oahu discount card Insider tips for visiting the Polynesian Cultural Center

The best beaches on Oahu (and why to visit them) Where to find the best shave ice on Oahu The best easy hikes on Oahu

North Shore Oahu complete visitors guide Kayaking to the Mokes with Twogood Kayaks Family-friendly kayaking with Holokai Adventures

Visiting Pearl Harbor

Maui resources:

Best Maui travel guide book

Perfect 3 day Maui itinerary

Cheap Places To Stay On Maui

Big Island resources:

Best Big Island travel guide book Perfect 5 day Big Island itinerary

Cheap Places To Stay On the Big Island

Kauai resources:

Best Kauai travel guide book

Perfect 3 day Kauai itinerary

Cheap Places To Stay On Kauai

Oahu guidebooks

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