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Solo Trip To Hawaii: The Ultimate Guide (From A Local!)

By Bridget Gutierrez. This guide to traveling solo in Hawaii contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Are you considering a solo trip to Hawaii ?

If so, then you’re in the right place!

As a Hawaii local who knows the ins and outs of the islands, I’ve created the ultimate guide to help you make the most of your trip.

From choosing which island to visit to finding local activities and booking the best solo travel tours in Hawaii, keep reading to learn everything you need to know to have an authentic experience.

Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or both, this guide will provide you with the best advice and recommendations from a local.

⏳Short on time? Here are some quick tips for visiting Hawaii solo: 🚘 Car Rental: Discover Cars  (save up to 70%!) 💸 Save Money: If visiting Oahu, get the Go City: Oahu All-Inclusive Pass to get access to 40+ local attractions and tours for one low price. 🏨 Accommodation: This accommodation map shows a mix of hotels and vacation rentals with prices. It’s currently set to the North Shore of Oahu, but you can easily change it to your preferred island and heighborhood. 🎉 Experiences: You can see a list of guided Hawaii tours here . A few top picks include: – Turtle Canyon Catamaran Snorkel Cruise (Honolulu, Oahu) – Eye-Level Whale Watching Eco-Raft Tour (Lahaina, Maui) – Volcanoes National Park Safari (Hilo, Big Island) ☔ Safety: While Hawaii is safe for solo travel, it’s still smart to pack travel safety essentials . One top pick is the She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm , which is TSA-approved and can help scare away potential attackers. Other recommendations include Clever Travel Companion Pickpocket-Proof Garments and Speakeasy Travel Supply Hidden Pocket Scarves 🏥  Travel Insurance:  SafetyWing 📞  Staying Connected:  Airalo eSIM

Table of Contents

Travel Solo To Hawaii With Confidence [Free Course]

But first, before we get into how to plan a solo trip to Hawaii, I invite you to grab a seat in Jessie’s  free Savvy Solo Traveler E-Course .

The 6-day course is designed to help you feel confident about booking your first solo trip and exploring the world alone.

Lessons include:

• Common solo travel fears and how to overcome them
• How to choose your perfect solo trip
• How to tell loved ones you’re hitting the road solo
• Mentally preparing for your solo journey without losing your mind
• Essential steps for staying safe on a solo trip
• How to take amazing solo selfies

Once you’ve  grabbed your seat , read on to learn how to travel solo in Hawaii.

Is Hawaii Safe To Travel Alone?

Yes, traveling to Hawaii alone is safe, especially as the destination has a lower crime rate than many other US states.

In fact, according to SafeWise , Hawaii’s violent crime is lower than the national average, and it’s one of only 15 states to continuously see a decrease in violent crime rates.

In short, as a tourist, you’ll likely feel very safe exploring Hawaii alone — though, of course, crime does still occur.

This is why it’s wise to stay aware of your surroundings, avoid flashing valuables, and do your research so you know of any local scams or concerns to be aware of.

Where Is Hawaii?

Hawaii is a beautiful and unique state in the middle of the Pacific Ocean .

Made up of a chain of islands that include Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island , Hawaii boasts some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world.

The islands are known for their stunning natural beauty — with gorgeous beaches, lush rainforests, and towering volcanoes.

If you’re wondering where it is on the map, Hawaii is about 2,500 miles southwest of Los Angeles, California.

Getting To Hawaii

Getting to Hawaii may seem daunting, but it can be a breeze with some planning and preparation.

The best way to reach Hawaii is by plane, with several airlines offering direct flights from major cities in the United States and worldwide. Some popular airlines that fly to Hawaii include Hawaiian Airlines, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, and United Airlines.

If you’re flying from the mainland United States , you can fly directly to Honolulu International Airport on Oahu.

Hawaii has two international airports:

• Daniel K. Inouye International Airport on Oahu (HNL)
• Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole in Hawaii (KOA)

From there, you can catch a connecting flight to one of the other islands.

Getting Around Hawaii As A Solo Traveler 

When you arrive in Hawaii, transportation options include rental cars, taxis, shuttles, and public transportation.

Renting a car in Hawaii

One of the best ways to see the sights during solo travel in Hawaii is renting a car, which will give you the freedom and flexibility to explore at your own pace.

It’s recommended to check out Discover Cars to quickly compare your rental car options.

Public transportation in Hawaii

However, if you feel uncomfortable driving or would prefer not to rent a car, other options exist — such as public transportation, ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft, and even biking or walking, depending on where you’re staying.

If you’re staying in Honolulu, the bus is an excellent option as it covers most areas of the city and is the most affordable option.

Taxis are also available — but can be expensive, especially for longer distances.

Biking around Hawaii

Biking is a fun way to explore some of the more scenic areas of Hawaii, such as the North Shore of Oahu or the famous Ke Ala Hele Makālae bike path along the east coast of Kauai.

If you have a motorcycle license, a more adventurous option is renting a moped to explore independently. This allows you to see Hawaii on your own time while really immersing yourself in the scenery.

Hawaii Solo Travel Map

To help give you a lay of the land, here is a map. It has most of the main points and solo activities mentioned in this guide to Hawaii solo female travel pre-plotted:

You can also click here for the interactive version .

Popular Solo Travel Destinations In Hawaii

On that note, let’s go over some of the best places to go when you travel Hawaii solo.

The following destinations are safe, fun, and have a lot to offer those doing a solo trip to Hawaii.

Honolulu, Oahu

The first Hawaii solo female travel destination on the list is Honolulu, a city on the island of Oahu, which is full of fun things to do.

Honolulu is the best place to travel in Hawaii alone for first-time solo female travelers looking for a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty. 

The city is known for its historic landmarks, vibrant food and shopping scenes, and beautiful beaches for a memorable solo beach trip .

One must-visit place in Honolulu is Waikiki Beach , where you can relax on the sand, catch some waves, or enjoy the  city’s nightly scene .

If you want to explore Honolulu’s natural beauty, hike up Diamond Head — a 300,000-year-old dormant volcano — to get panoramic views of the city and the Pacific Ocean.

If hiking is not your thing, drive up to Puu Ualakaa State Park , an underrated lookout point offering amazing views of the city and one-of-a-kind views of Diamond Head.

For a taste of Hawaiian culture and history during your solo travel in Hawaii experience, head to the Iolani Palace or the Bishop Museum.

You can take a guided tour of the Iolani Palace — a royal residence — to learn about the history of the Hawaiian monarchy. The monarchs played an important role in Hawaiian history, and their legacy is still celebrated and remembered today.

Alternatively, the Bishop Museum showcases an extensive collection of Hawaiian history, local culture, and natural history. Popular exhibits include Hawaiian voyaging, the Hawaiian language, and the cultural traditions of the Hawaiian people.

Honolulu truly offers the best of city and beach lifestyle.

Honolulu Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Honolulu . Honolulu Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Honolulu .

North Shore, Oahu

If you are a solo female traveler looking for a laid-back and authentic Hawaiian experience, the North Shore of Oahu is the best place. This is where you’ll find many local things to do in Oahu , which is one of the more popular Hawaiian islands.

North Shore is great for relaxing and unwinding on its stunning beaches and lush landscapes.

The area is known for its world-class surfing during the winter season, though there is plenty to do beyond the waves.

Love hiking? Some beautiful moderate trails are Waimea Valley Trail — which takes you to the magnificent 30-foot Waimea Falls — and Ehukai Pillbox Hike , which offers beautiful views over the North Shore after taking you past several WWII “pillbox” bunkers.

If you love to explore underwater, you must go snorkeling in Pupukea Beach Park at Shark’s Cove — known for its shallow, calm, and clear water as well as its abundant marine life and sea creatures. While there aren’t actually sharks here, lucky visitors may get to see angelfish, butterflyfish, moray eels, and octopuses. It’s the perfect spot for beginner snorkelers.

After a day at the beach, head across the street to the local food trucks for lunch plates and poke bowls.

You can also find an abundance of food trucks in Haleiwa Town — which is also known for its surfing — and in Kauhuku .

A must-try is garlic shrimp from Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck in Haleiwa. Just make sure to bring cash and be prepared for a long line — though it’s totally worth the wait!

The relaxed pace of life in North Shore makes it easy for travelers to connect with locals and other visitors, whether at a farmers’ market or the beach watching the sunset.

Oahu North Shore Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Oahu North Shore . Oahu North Shore Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Oahu North Shore .

If you want adventure and relaxation, Maui is perfect for a solo vacation to Hawaii. Compared to Oahu, Maui is more rural and offers a more tranquil atmosphere with its scenic drives along the coast.

Maui offers the best hotels in Hawaii for solo travelers, from hostels to vacation rentals to budget-friendly hotels.

Solo travelers will find that Maui’s friendly locals and laid-back atmosphere make it easy to form connections and find adventure. Plus, the island is known for its natural attractions — including a volcano, secluded beaches, waterfalls, and even whale watching .

The best things to do in Maui are the scenic Road to Hana and visiting the Haleakala National Park.

Road to Hana is a 64-mile coastal road known as the Hana Highway that officially starts in Kahului and ends in Hana. Along the way, you can stop at waterfalls, black-sand beaches, local fruit stands, and farm-to-table restaurants.

While there are countless stops and sights to explore along the way, there are three must-see spots that should not be missed:

• Twin Falls is a beautiful waterfall with swimming pools. You can reach the falls via a relatively easy 1.8-mile hike just off the main road.
• Hana Farms Roadside Stand is a great mid-point stop to eat at before continuing the 34 miles left on the Road to Hana. This outdoor farm-to-table cafe serves healthy dishes made with local ingredients and fresh produce. I recommend trying out their beef brisket or kale pork farm plates. You can also buy freshly baked goods like banana bread and brownies, ice cream, produce, nut butter, and more.
• Waianapanapa State Park is a black sand beach where you can do much more than just swim. Visitors can explore a small cave on the right of the beach. On the other side of the beach, to your left, you’ll find a hiking trail that winds through the lava rock. The park does require a reservation to enter the park.

Within Haleakala National Park , you can book a bike tour to watch an awe inspiring sunrise at the Haleakala summit — 10,000 feet above sea level! Watching the sunrise while you are above the clouds is a one-of-a-kind experience, and afterwards you can do some downhill biking to experience the area’s natural beauty in a fun and active way.

The park is also full of hiking trails. One recommended trail is Waimoku Falls via Pipiwai Trail , a moderate 3.8-mile hike that takes you to a gorgeous 400-foot tall waterfall.

You can view a full list of top Haleakala National Park hiking trails here.

If you’re wanting a peaceful solo travel in Hawaii experience removed from the big city vibes, then you can’t go wrong with Maui.

Maui Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Maui . Maui Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Maui .

Known as the “Garden Island” because of its lush tropical landscapes, Kauai is the perfect tourist destination for solo travelers who love the great outdoors and don’t mind getting rained on.

The rural island is known for its beautiful hiking trails, with only 10% of the land accessible by car.

Hikers should head to  Waimea Canyon State Park — known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” This is because it resembles the famous Grand Canyon with its reddish hues — Waimea (“reddish water”) refers to the canyon’s red soil erosion — and massive size at 10 miles long and up to 3,000 feet deep.

The extreme rainfall on Mount Waialeale formed the canyon , which is one of the wettest places on Earth.

Prefer biking? Don’t miss the Ke Ala Hele Makālae bike path , an easy trail along the island’s Royal Coconut Coast, a nickname given to Kauai’s East Side due to its abundance of coconut groves.

And if you want to zipline, head to Koloa on the South Shore to go ziplining on Kauai’s longest zipline course. You can fly like a superhero along a 1000-foot zipline through lush forest and over the Waita Reservoir.

Beyond the above-mentioned adventures, a trip to Kauai is not complete until you see the Na Pali Coastline . These beautiful emerald-hued cliffs stretch for 17 miles, and can only be seen via hiking, helicopter, or boat.

The best time to do a Na Pali Coast boat tour is during a summer morning, as this is when the water conditions are the calmest.

Boat tours leave from Hanalei (only in summer months) on the North Shore as well as Port Allen on the South Shore. If possible, opt for Hanalei as you’ll reach the Na Pali Coast from here. Expect the boat tour to be about 4-5.5 hours long. You can choose to go on a catamaran or a motorized raft.

Another option is a Kauai helicopter tour , which offers stunning views over Waimea Canyon, Mount Waialeale, Na Pali Coast, and a few other spots. You can choose from “doors on” or the more popular “door-off” option — which provides unobstructed views and is great for taking stunning photos of Kauai.

Experienced hikers will love the challenge of trekking the 11-mile (one way) Na Pali Coast (Kalalau) Trail , which begins at Ha’ena State Park at Ka’a Beach and takes about 3 days to complete. Note that it requires a permit to hike and camp that must be booked in advance as the limited reservations sell out fast.

Even if you only hike a few miles of the trail, you’ll be rewarded with beautiful panoramic views.

Now, I’m sure you’re curious: which of these options for seeing the Na Pali Coast is best? In my opinion, the boat, as it is a longer tour and is way more affordable than a helicopter tour and way easier than a hike.

Kauai Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Kauai . Kauai Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Kauai .

Hawai’i, aka Big Island

If you are a backcountry lover and want to explore not one, but two volcanos — one of which is active — Hawaii is the island for you.

Big Island is the largest island out of all eight major Hawaiian islands, with the two main areas to visit being Kona and Hilo .

Hawaii is home to Manua Kea , the largest volcano on Earth, and Kilauea , the most active volcano, located in the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park .

If you’re wondering whether visiting the Big Island with an active volcano is safe, the short answer is yes! While this may sound dangerous, the reality is that the area around the volcano is well-monitored, and visitors are typically kept at a safe distance.

The best things to do in Hawaii alone are to:

• go on a whale watching tour
• hike the scenic and historic King’s Trail (and other Big Island hikes )
• go snorkeling with manta rays
• take a helicopter tour of the Kilauea Volcano
• Just make sure to check if lava is flowing during your visit

Another interesting way to see lava flowing is aboard an evening lava boat tour , which gets you up close to the action.

Alternatively, you can go on a scenic drive along Chain of Craters Road , which provides the best view of the huge hardened lava flows year-round. On this road, you can stop at different points like Thurston Lava Tube , Halemaumau Crater , Devil’s Throat Crater , and Holei Sea Arch .

Big Island is also known for its coffee, particularly in Kailua-Kona . You can visit farms along the Kona Coffee Belt — like Greenwell Farms and Mountain Thunder Coffee — to tour the plantations, learn more about the production process, and taste local coffees.

There is also this in-depth Kona tour , which takes you to a coffee plantation, a bee farm, Kealakekua Bay, and Kaloko-Honokohau Park.

And if you’re just looking to kick back and relax, Big Island has plenty of luxurious resorts and spas where you can unwind — like Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection , a beachfront resort on the Kohala Coast that offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

With three swimming pools and a beautiful beach, there are plenty of opportunities to relax and soak up the sun. And for a truly indulgent experience, treat yourself to a massage or facial at the resort’s sumptuous spa.

The hotel also has several dining options to suit any taste, from casual family-style dining to farm-to-table Japanese-inspired dishes.

At Mauna Lani, you will surely receive exceptional service that will make your stay comfortable and memorable.

Big Island Hotels: Click here for a full list of hotels in Big Island . Big Island Tours: Click here for a full list of fun tours in Big Island .

Advice For Solo Dining In Hawaii

Does the thought of eating alone during your solo trip to Hawaii make you feel self-conscious? Here are a few tips:

Bring an activity. Bringing a book or other enjoyable activity can give you something to focus on while dining.

Sit at the bar. It often feels less awkward to sit at a bar alone than a table. Bonus: you’ll have the bartender to chat with if you’d like someone to talk to.

Dine outside of main meal times. This will allow you to dine solo with less people around.

Opt for a food tour. There are many food tours in Hawaii , which have the added benefit of allowing you to meet other travelers and get insider knowledge from your tour guide.

Focus on your food and enjoy. At the end of the day, realize that nobody besides you is focused on the fact that you’re eating alone in Hawaii. So instead of caring what others may or may not think about you sitting on your own, focus on the delicious food in front of you.

Tips For Planning A Solo Trip To Hawaii

Now let’s chat about some important things to keep in mind during solo female travel in Hawaii.

1) Choose the right island. Each Hawaiian island offers a unique experience, so choosing the island that best fits your interests and travel style is essential.

For instance, Oahu and Maui are popular choices for solo travelers, with plenty of activities and reliable transportation options.

If you are visiting Hawaii alone and want a more rural environment to go hiking and camping, Kauai and Hawaii (also called the Big Island) are great options.

Once you pick an island, research its popular areas so that you can choose a centrally-located accommodation near to the things you want to do on your solo trip to Hawaii.

2) Be respectful. Hawaii has unique cultures and customs, so being respectful and aware of local traditions is essential. Also, respecting locals, nature, and sacred sights is crucial.

Here are few additional local tips for showing respect:

• When a car gives you the right way to pass, it’s a nice gesture to shaka 🤙🏽
• Saying aloha (hello) and mahalo (thank you) goes a long way
• Never touch or get too close to wildlife — it’s illegal!

3) Research local transportation. To make traveling to Hawaii solo easier, figure out your transportation method. Not all Hawaii islands have public transportation, and renting a car is always the best option if you’re comfortable driving.

Again, you can use Discover Cars to quickly compare your rental options.

Another excellent choice for solo travelers wanting to see the sights without renting a car is to book a tour.

Here is a full list of top-rated tours in Hawaii .

4) Know how to stay safe on a solo trip to Hawaii. Hawaii is generally a safe destination for solo travelers; however, it’s essential to take precautions like:

• Pack important travel safety essentials
• Stick to well-lit areas at night, avoid isolated beaches or trails, and stay aware of your surroundings
• If you plan on hiking or participating in outdoor activities alone, let someone know where you’ll be and when you expect to return
• Pay attention to any warning signs at the beach or at the beginning of the hiking trails
• Consider joining tours to meet other travelers and enhance your Hawaii experience

By taking these simple steps, you can enjoy all that Hawaii offers while staying safe during your solo travels.

What Does Hawaii Solo Travel Cost?

The cost of solo female travel to Hawaii can vary widely depending on your travel budget , trip style, and the length of your stay. That being said, the average weekly cost is about $2500 to $5000.

Here is a cost breakdown for a solo trip to Hawaii :

Accommodation:

• Hostel dorm bed: $45 per night
• 3-star hotel room: $150 per night

Transportation:

• Car rentals: $50 to $150 per day
• Moped rentals: $50 per day for a 7-day rental
• Bus ride: $2.50
• Hawaiian shave ice: $5-$10
• Fast food plate: $10-15
• Restaurant entree: $22-50 

Excursions:  Hawaii offers a wide range of activities for free. If you want to do a tour, prices can vary widely; but, expect to spend anywhere from $50 to $200+ per activity.

A solo trip to Hawaii is expensive, but it’s worth visiting. To reduce costs, consider visiting outside of peak season — which is typically late December through March — and booking your flights and hotels a few months in advance.

Do You Need Travel Insurance For Hawaii?

When visiting Hawaii — or anywhere else in the world — it’s wise to get travel insurance.

One of the  best travel medical insurance for travelers  is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country.

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Frequently Asked Questions About Solo Travel To Hawaii

Now let’s go over a few common questions about planning a solo trip to Hawaii.

Q) Is Hawaii safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, Absolutely! Hawaii is generally safe for solo female travelers, and you can enjoy exploring this beautiful destination alone.

You’ll likely have a worry-free trip if you take standard precautions — such as staying aware of your surroundings, keeping your belongings close, and avoiding isolated areas after dark.

Plus, the locals in Hawaii are known for their friendly and welcoming nature, so you’ll feel right at home in no time.

Q) W hat is the best Hawaiian island for solo travel?

Oahu is often considered the best place in Hawaii for solo travel. It offers endless outdoor activities, museums, and iconic landmarks like Diamond Head and Pearl Harbor — which provide an opportunity to learn about the history and culture of Hawaii.

For those seeking relaxation, Oahu has some of the  best beaches in Hawaii, including Waikiki Beach and Lanikai Beach. Also, getting around the island is much easier than the other islands.

Q) What is the best time to visit Hawaii?

The best time to visit Hawaii is during the shoulder seasons of May to early June or September to mid-December. During these times, you can get score great deals while avoiding the crowds.

Hawaii’s climate is relatively consistent year-round, so you can expect warm temperatures and occasional rainfall no matter when you visit.

Q) What is the most affordable Hawaiian island to visit?

Oahu is often considered the most affordable island to visit. One of the reasons for this is that the island has a diverse range of accommodations — including hostels, hotels, and vacation rentals, making it easier to find affordable lodging options.

Additionally, Oahu has an excellent public transportation system that can take you anywhere on the island without spending too much.

Q) Can you drink tap water in Hawaii?

Yes, tap water in Hawaii is generally safe to drink. The water in Hawaii comes from the onshore aquifers or accumulated underground rainwater.

Due to its natural porous volcanic rock filtration, no fluoride is added to water; however, the taste of tap water can vary depending on the location and the source of the water.

Final Thoughts On Going To Hawaii Alone 

Hawaii is a fantastic destination for solo travelers. As we’ve explored, Hawaii is generally safe for solo female travelers, with plenty of activities to suit various interests and budgets.

Whether you’re looking to relax on a beach, hike to a scenic waterfall, or explore the local food scene, Hawaii has something to offer.

From the stunning natural beauty of Maui to the bustling city life of Oahu, each Hawaiian island has its own unique charm.

While getting to Hawaii may require some planning, many airlines offer direct flights from major cities worldwide. Plus, once you arrive, getting around as a solo traveler is relatively easy — with plenty of transportation options available.

And with Hawaii’s consistently warm weather, there’s always a right time to visit, whether seeking a peaceful escape or an exciting adventure.

In short, consider the Hawaiian islands for your next solo trip!

What are your top tips for planning a solo trip to Hawaii?

Enjoyed this guide to solo female travel in Hawaii ? Pin it for later!

About The Author

Bridget is a mindful travel blogger based in Oahu, Hawaii. On her blog, bridgetgutierrez.com , you’ll find in-depth travel guides and helpful tips to help you travel to Oahu. Follow her travels on  Instagram . 

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Wow, what an amazing experience! I’m so jealous! I’ve always wanted to take a solo trip to Hawaii and it sounds like you had a great time. I’m sure you made some amazing memories that will last a lifetime. Thanks for sharing your story!

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Infinite possibilities await the solo traveler in Hawaii. This safe destination offers more than a taste of the tropics, ideal for both the adventurous and more laid-back traveler. Choose your island or island hop to get the full Hawaiian experience. The four main islands each offer unique attractions from the Pearl Harbor Memorial and “Jurassic Valley" of Oahu to Waimea Canyon tours and Napali Snorkeling of Kauai and from camping in Haleakala National Park on Maui to taking a Kohala canopy tour on Big Island. You will find your slice of heaven for some much needed me time.

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This is The Best Hawaiian Island for Singles (don’t miss this)

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It felt like a no-brainer when I was asked what was the best Hawaiian island for singles. Oahu came to mind. It has nightlife. But nightlife isn’t what a solo traveler or single person is looking for on vacation. 

Maui is the best island for singles who want a beach vacation plus activities. Oahu is the best Hawaiian island for singles who are looking for nightlife. Kauai is the best island for singles who are looking for adventure. Molokini is best for anyone who wants to be alone in warm weather.

How do you want to remember your Hawaiian vacation? Romance, the best yoga retreat ever, where you learned to surf, a relaxing get-away to clear your head, or all of the above is possible when you land on a Hawaiian island. 

Now I may be married with children (my dog counts as a child) but my experience on the islands is worth more than two cents for solo travelers. For some street cred, I lived alone on Oahu for a couple of years.

Here is your place to figure out the best Hawaiian island to visit for singles. At the end of the day, the important thing is you come to Hawaii for a vacation because no one leaves with regrets. 

Hawaiian Vacation for One

Hundreds of thousands of people visit Hawaii as solo travelers. I don’t know the exact figure but this is a safe guess. 

With 9.7 million people visiting Hawaii in 2018, the average party size was 2.22 people . 4.8% were on business trips so the remainder must be solo travelers out to have a good time on the islands.

You won’t be alone as a solo traveler. I can guarantee you that. Singles come to Hawaii for the activities in a safe environment.

Hawaii is full of activities from whale watching to yoga retreats to surf camps to ziplining. You won’t get bored as a solo traveler.

My best friend went on vacation with his parents to Hawaii when he was 24. He had a great time as a single guy hanging with his parents at Turtle Bay on the north shore of Oahu. 

His stories from his trip revolve around sitting in hot tubs with honeymooners chatting them up. 

He has the personality to make anyone laugh and enjoy every moment being surrounded by romantic couples while being single. Not everyone wants a vacation to Hawaii like that.

Most single or solo travelers come to Hawaii seeking adventure. A few come for love. Some visit the Hawaiian islands for the densest population of mating humpback whales in the world. 

Whatever your fancy for visiting the Hawaiian islands as a single person, make sure you pick the right island for your Hawaiian vacation. 

Unlike my friend, it is easy to avoid honeymooners if you choose. 

Only 5.4% of visitors in 2018 came to honeymoon. The majority, at 75%, go to Oahu and 28% go to Maui. Out of over 9 million visitors, the odds are in your favor that you won’t cross a newlywed couple. 

Hawaii is Safe to Visit for Singles

Hawaii is a great place to visit for a solo traveler because it is safe. Crime rates are lower than the national average and far lower than international destinations in the tropics. 

There are few sketchy neighborhoods and those are far from tourist spots and resorts. Violent crimes against tourists are nearly non-existent. One can relax on the beach without getting haggled or walk home from the bars without looking over one’s shoulder. 

Tourists are typically targeted with property theft. Car break-ins at condos or when you are the beach or stolen bags at the beach. 

You can avoid car break-ins by not leaving valuables or bags in your car. When on the beach, I recommend leaving your bag in front of you so they can’t grab your bag from behind while you are staring at the waves.

Crime in Hawaii 2017 report provides a great summary of the types of crime (e.g., murders, property damage, theft, etc.) by island if you would like more information. 

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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 Maui.

Types of Hawaiian Vacations for Solo Travelers

Step 1, know what you want on a vacation. Most single people know what they want so this is an easy first step. 

Step 2, know what island has what you want.

If you are looking for lots of beach time sprinkled with some snorkeling and some hiking over 5 days then great. We can find a Hawaiian island for you. 

If you are looking to never leave your resort until you are sore from messages than we have the island for you. 

If you are looking to bike down a volcano, get strapped to a zipline, and plunge into turquoise waters then we have the island for you.

If you are looking for Captain Jack Sparrow, then maybe the Caribean or the Bahamas has better islands for you. 

Hawaii has class. 

Of course, you can always find a military bar or underground club in Hawaii but Hawaii is no Mexican spring break trip. Hawaii can be expensive as it is a tropical paradise in America. But Hawaii’s je ne sais quoi is its tropical class.

Activities for Singles

All the Hawaiian islands offer surf camps, yoga retreats, hula lessons, health retreats, and spa vacations.

All-inclusive hotels are rare in Hawaii and usually come in the form of a packaged trip. 

Snorkel cruises, sunset cruises, and scuba trips are popular activities on the islands. I’m a confident and outgoing person but doing these alone, as I have done, does get uncomfortable.

Explore all our recommended Hawaii tours and activities here .

Most people on these are with a partner so getting matched up for safety like on snorkel trip or scuba diving trip can quickly make you the third wheel. 

The best surf for new surfers is on Maui and Oahu. So I’d recommend those islands for a surf camp.

More things to do across Hawaii:

• Best Things to Do in Hawaii
• 35 Best Things to Do on Kauai
• 33 Things to Do on Maui

I’d also say the best beaches are on Maui and Oahu. They are older islands so they have miles of white sand beaches.

The Big Island has nice beaches near Waimea on the north coast. Kauai has the jaw-droppingly beautiful Hanalei Bay and beaches on the south coast but the north coast gets strong waves and undercurrents during the winter months. 

I don’t want to talk you out of Kauai or the Big Island for a beach vacation. I’m splitting hairs here when it comes to Hawaiian beaches. Check out this article for Big Island Beaches and here for the 9 Best Beaches on Kauai . 

Kuaui, the Garden Isle , is more peaceful and quiet. Thus making it an ideal tropical paradise for a yoga retreat. 

For a single person, Hawaii is safe, reliable, and fun. A solo traveler can get a latte and bagel for breakfast, walk a promenade, sit at the beach until they feast on a food truck lunch of local grindz, hike to waterfall, and then take a sunset, all you can drink sail to cap off the day. 

Related articles:

•   Cheapest Time to Fly to Maui (And It’s Not Would You’d Expect)
• 9 Things Maui is Best Known For (You Won’t Want to Miss Them)

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Oahu Singles Vacation

The itinerary above comes to you from Honolulu, Oahu. 

Waikiki, a neighborhood in Honolulu, is the place to be for a solo traveler who wants a beach vacation with some nightly spice. 

And in Waikiki, you can take sunset cruises from your backdoor to start your night and go to a wide selection of bars in your front yard to end the night. 

Honolulu has lounge nightlife, Chinatown hipster nightlife, military bar nightlife (hello Lewers Street), and causal hotel mai tai sipping nightlife. Waikiki is the Pacific’s Vegas Strip. In a good way. 

Waikiki is clean, safe, and has a fun, hip vibe that makes for a fun trip as a single person. Oahu is the most visited Hawaiian island with 5.86 million visitors in 2018. Also, Oahu has the largest population of all the islands. With all these people, there is always something going on. 

Of course, Oahu has so much more to offer than nightlife. After living there for 2 years, I never got bored. 

The hiking is the best of any island as it is accessible for day hikes. You can get to waterfalls and swimming holes all over the island with a Google search. Cultural activities are abundant like hula lessons, surf lessons, and cooking classes galore.

There are plenty of long sandy beaches that are safe to snorkel alone. The waves are calm on the southside of the island all year. 

If you rent a car, not necessary but recommended, one can visit Pearl Harbor, The Dole Plantation, and amazing beaches like Lanikai Beach. 

What makes Oahu good for a single traveler is you can find budget options. You don’t have to rent a car as Waikiki is walkable and Honolulu has a good bus system. You can also find lodging to fit any budget. 

It is no surprise that Jason Segel went to Oahu to forget Sarah Marshall. The joke is that he goes to Turtle Bay instead of Waikiki. A place for families and honeymooners. He still has fun though. Oahu never disappoints. 

Oahu is my Hawaiian island recommendation for singles who want to stretch their travel dollars and want nightlife with easily accessible activities during the day. 

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Maui Singles Vacation

Maui provides sun-filled and action-packed days. To the point where everyone is ready for bed after dinner. Maui doesn’t have the nightlife like Oahu. 

Maui is the second most visited of the Hawaiian islands and second in size behind the Island of Hawaii. Perhaps due to its size and fewer people, it is known more for rejuvenating and more intimate vacation spot compared to Oahu. 

A-list celebrities and internet millionaires can be found on Maui enjoying the sites and the resorts. 

Singles heading to Maui can choose from a variety of trip types. Luxurious, 5-star resorts with secluded beaches abound on Maui like in Wailea on the southside. One can park themselves there to get a spa treatment, pools with swim-up bars, and white sand beaches. 

The Hotel Wailea is an adult-only hotel that does not disappoint when it comes to a luxury Hawaiian vacation. 

Renting a car is recommended due to activities and sites are stretched out across the island. You can get to the best sites in 20 to 50 minutes so it still isn’t a huge place. There is so much to see and do around Maui to keep you busy. 

Maui is best enjoyed with a couple of beach days dispersed amongst activity days. You can pick the level of excitement you want. 

With a rental car and fewer budget-friendly lodgings compared to Oahu, Maui can be more expensive for a solo traveler. 

Maui is more intimate than Oahu. 

Maui is full of historic towns and tourist centers that aren’t overcrowded. The restaurants and bars have a beachy vibe and island time is in full effect. The slower pace makes for more opportunities to meet locals and other single tourists. 

Sunset and snorkel cruises come in all sizes. Hop on a boat and mingle on Maui. 

Kihei is a popular town for single tourists with its large beach and abundant bars and restaurants within walking distance from condos and resorts. Kihei is popping during spring break time. 

KAUAI Singles Vacation

Kauai is the Garden Isle. With 1.4 million visitors a year and 72,159 (2017) local residents, Kauai is known more for its tropical paradise than nightlife and restaurants. 

Kauai may be too quiet for most singles. The resort area in Princeville is better for honeymooners, babymooners, and families than singles looking to meet someone.

As a solo traveler looking for adventure on their holiday, Kauai would be your top pick. Kauai packs a punch with amazing hiking trails and camping.

The best sunset cruise of my life was on the Na Pali Coast. The towering sea cliffs, lush mountains, and sitting on the net of the catamaran sipping cocktails made for an unforgettable and lively cruise. 

I recommend Kauai for a solo traveler looking for adventure over romance. You may find a local on the hiking trail who shares your interests so anything is possible. 

Molokai Singles Vacation

Just don’t do it. Even if you are an adventurous solo traveler who is looking for the next thrill or Instagram shot, don’t go to Molokai. 

Molokai is a fun day trip from Maui for some hiking and visiting a former leper colony but it isn’t worth flying across the Pacific for 7 days. 

As a solo traveler, you will make friends with the bus drivers on the island. You won’t meet or talk to very many other people. 

Best Hawaiian Island for Single Women

My recommendation for the best Hawaiian island for single women would be Maui. Maui has so much to offer in terms of beaches, activities, bars, resorts, and a good time. 

Maui doesn’t have the electrifying vibe of Waikiki but it outdoes Oahu for activities, safety, and beaches. You can stay busy with activities on Maui or camp out at your luxury resort. The Waimea resorts outdo Oahu any day. 

You won’t get stuck in traffic as you explore the large island. You can go to dessert beaches or the rainforest on the Road to Hana. 

If getting a rental car is a concern for your budget, I highly recommend budget rental car companies away from the airport. Like the family-run Kihei Rent a Car. They will pick you up from the airport and make you feel part of the family.

Here are discount Hawaii car rental options .

Going to a Luau Alone

For my 27th birthday, I was living in Oahu alone. My girlfriend and future wife got me a scuba trip on the Waianae Coast. A scuba buddy is usually available as others do these trips alone also.

Surprise! She got me a cake to end the boat trip. 

Nothing says “I have no friends on Oahu” like a boat full of strangers singing you Happy Birthday. I found the situation hilarious as they felt more uncomfortable than me. I love cake. And I love her.

This experience reminds me of how uncomfortable it can be to be single in Hawaii or anywhere for that matter. 

Embrace the experience. This may be your first trip as a solo traveler or single. If you are still reading this article I can tell you are independent and confident. A trip to Hawaii is perfect for you.

You can’t go to Hawaii without visiting a Luau. Here are our 14 Best Hawaii Luaus: our unbiased review .

To enjoy a luau alone go to a buffet-style luau. You can choose your seat on long tables. You won’t be stuck next to someone horrible or no-one as the long table brings out a family-style conversation.

Well before dinner, there are plenty of activities around the luau facility to watch. Such as how to open a coconut, the unearthing of a pig, and spear throwing. It is a choose-your-own-adventure setup at luaus before the dinner and shows begin. 

You can meet and mingle during this time or stay to yourself without feeling awkward. 

Once you find a table that looks good for you, remember everyone who is there is on vacation and having the time of their lives. Embrace the camaraderie and make some friends.

Dinner is quick as people rush the buffet lines. The show starts during dinner so if the conversation is bad, just turn to watch the show. 

Have a wonderful trip to Hawaii! You won’t regret going to the island single.   

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Cruising Hawaii Guide

Big Island Wayfinder Itinerary

Thanks for reading The Hawaii Vacation Guide! I'm the co-founder, with my wife Erica, of the best Hawaii travel guide on the internet in our biased opinions. We enjoy traveling throughout Hawaii after living on Maui and Oahu. We share our adventures, travel tips and resources, and honest reviews so you can easily plan your dream vacation to Hawaii. Editing our videos, teaching the kids how to snorkel, and learning about the 'aina (land) and Hawaii culture are my favorite things to do. Have a wonderful trip to the Aloha State.

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Explore > Destinations > Hawaii > The Hawaii Solo Travel Guide

The Hawaii Solo Travel Guide

Exploring hawaii on your own terms, hawaii solo travel tips.

The Hawaiian Islands, and Maui especially, are legendary vacation destinations, where you can spend your days relaxing on scenic beaches and learning about the culture in the lush, natural paradise. While it can be enjoyable to explore with your family or best friend in tow, there’s something magical about visiting all on your own.

When you take a solo trip to Hawaii, you’re free to experience the islands at your own pace, whether that means visiting all the sacred sites or stopping at every single shave ice joint along the way. Stake a claim in the sand and spend every minute splashing in the surf or hit the hiking trails and become one with nature.

Before packing your bags, though, check out some of our top solo travel tips below. Then book your flight to Honolulu and get ready to explore the islands your way.

Things to know when traveling to Hawaii

• Learn the language: Though nearly everyone speaks English on the islands, Hawaiian is technically the official language. Take the time to learn a few words, which the locals will appreciate. For example, aloha means hello, mahalo translates to thank you, and ’ono grinds refers to delicious food.
• Leave no trace : Be respectful of the land and do not leave behind any trash. In the same vein, don’t take any lava rocks, shells, or sand from the beaches (it’s illegal to do so at any national park in the U.S.) Aside from the environmental implications, there are local myths about bad luck placed on those who take from Hawaiian beaches, so it’s better safe than sorry!
• Respect culture and traditions : Hawaii is a place steeped in history and culture. You’ll find many temples, sacred sites, and cultural attractions on the islands, and it’s essential to treat them with respect. Research the local customs in advance to ensure you are behaving accordingly.
• Get on island time : Forget about rushing around when you’re in Hawaii. Locals take their time, whether that’s driving on the roads or preparing your meal in a restaurant. Learn to relax and don’t get worked up if things aren’t moving at the same pace you’re used to—this isn’t NYC after all!
• Time your visit : Hawaii is obviously a popular destination among tourists. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, plan a vacation outside of major holidays and winter and summer breaks when children are out of school. Also, keep in mind, the rainy season generally lasts from November to March, in case that impacts your planned activities.

How to travel alone for the first time

Many people wonder, is Hawaii safe for solo travelers? Just as with any travel destination, Hawaii is safe as long as you take special care and precautions. It’s important to always be aware of your surroundings and to trust your instincts.

• Talk to the hotel concierge for safety tips and tricks about the area. Find out information such as if the neighborhood is safe to walk at night, if you need to worry about the ocean currents, and what to know about the local hiking trails.
• Do your research. Find out what hiking trails are treacherous, what beaches are unsafe, and what kind of weather you should prepare for. The more you know, the better you can plan.
• Keep in touch with your friends and family back home. Especially if you plan to take a hike or venture far from your home base, it’s best to let your loved ones know your whereabouts. Frequently check in or let them know when you’ll contact them.
• Lock up your valuables if you’re leaving them at your hotel and don’t travel with lots of money on hand. It’s also a good idea to make backup copies of your bank information or ID in case you lose your wallet.
• If something doesn’t feel right , don’t push it. Avoid that walkway, call a ride, or change your plans.
• Join group tours or take a class, like surfing lessons, to make travel companions along the way. Aside from building friendships, you may decide to travel to your next destination together.

Best places to go in Hawaii on your own

No one can say there is one best place to go in Hawaii. Because with so much to see, do, and explore, you can choose whichever experiences you want to have when you’re traveling to Hawaii. And when you’re going to Hawaii alone, you might be surprised to find that you’ll spend a lot of time with other travelers seeking similar experiences. Whether you join a snorkel tour group or spend an afternoon on Waikiki Beach, chances are, you’ll make plenty of friends along the way.

• Island hopping : If you’ve got time to spare, break up your journey with stops at several different islands, as they each have something amazing to offer. Book one of the hotels in Honolulu and experience Waikiki Beach and then reserve your Maui flights to venture on the Road to Hana. From Maui to Kauai, no island will disappoint.
• Iconic sites: Hawaii is teeming with must-visit attractions. When you’re taking a solo trip to Hawaii, don’t miss top spots, such as Volcanoes National Park, Pearl Harbor, and the North Shore, among countless others. Many tour guides offer excursions to these famous spots around the islands, making it easy for you to access them.
• Nature escapes: The scenery is easily the best part of Hawaii. From the lush jungles to the serene coastlines, the Hawaiian Islands are picturesque. Hike Turtle Bay, cruise around Na Pali Coast, and snorkel around Molokini. There are tons of ways to indulge and appreciate Hawaii’s beautiful scenery.
• Cultural experiences : Take some time to learn about the culture and history. Visit the Polynesian Cultural Center in Oahu or the Hana Cultural Center in Maui. Joining a luau is another fun way to experience the local traditions, from the imu ceremony to the Samoan Fireknife dancer.
• Best eateries: When you’re traveling solo, you get to eat where and when you want. Craving poke for every meal? We don’t judge. During your travels, be sure to suss out spots for poke, shave ice, saimin, manapua, and of course, plenty of coconuts and fresh seafood.

Whether you start your adventures in Honolulu , Kona, Haleakala, or beyond, you’re in for an unforgettable trip on your own.

Header Image Via Maridav / Shutterstock

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How to Plan a Solo Trip to Hawaii

Do you have questions about solo travel in hawaii keep scrolling for my step-by-step guide on how to plan a solo trip to hawaii that will blow your mind, this guide to planning a solo trip to hawaii was written by marcie cheung (a hawaii travel expert) and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

You’ve been dreaming about that solo trip to Hawaii, but you aren’t sure where to start.

I’ve been traveling to Hawaii since I was a child, and today it’s still my favorite place to visit! Below you can find all of my best tips and perspective to help you plan solo travel to Hawaii.

You might love to travel solo, or perhaps it’s a new experience you’ve been craving. Solo trips are great for relaxing and shedding the responsibility of everyday life. You don’t have to worry about anyone else, so you have the ultimate flexibility and independence!

A solo trip to Hawaii is great for everyone. You can meet people or spend time alone on a white sand beach. But you might have questions about how safe it is to travel so far from home by yourself.

So, is Hawaii good for solo travelers? It’s easy, safe, and a lot of fun to plan a solo trip to Hawaii. And you can read all the details below!

Why turn to me for Hawaii advice? Having explored the islands on 40+ occasions, my perspective is truly seasoned.

Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Hawaii itineraries complete with daily schedules, fun activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.

How to Stay Safe When Traveling to Hawaii Alone

The Hawaiian Islands are very visitor-friendly and  crime rates are super low  when compared to the rest of the US! When you’re planning a solo trip to Hawaii, the best thing you can do to protect yourself is to be mindful and prepared.

Do your research concerning the area where you’ll be staying. Search forums or even call your hotel and ask about the neighborhood at night and transportation in the area. Also, think about how you plan on getting to your hotel from the airport.

Since you’ll be alone, I suggest using apps for car services. Both Uber and Lyft are on the 4 major islands, and there’s also  Execucar . This is better than using a taxi because you can monitor the GPS tracker and there’s a record of your location if anything happens.

Before you travel to Hawaii, try to give someone back home your itinerary. Typically, you’d give it to a family member, a friend, or a coworker. Check in regularly during your trip and keep them updated on where you’re going next.

And when you get to your hotel, it’s good to let your concierge know you’ll be traveling alone. This way they can give you their take on the area and keep an eye out for you as you come and go!

What’s the Best Island for Solo Travel?

Normally when you travel by yourself, it’s recommended that you stay in more populated areas to avoid being isolated, especially at night. But ultimately, this is a personal choice.

All the Hawaiian Islands are very welcoming to travelers on a solo trip to Hawaii. But I recommend either Oahu or Maui , especially if it’s your first time in Hawaii . Below you can read a quick overview of what each island offers a solo traveler.

I consider Oahu the best Hawaii island for single men and women.  It’s the most affordable island , and it’s home to the popular Waikiki!

There’s quality shopping, great nightlife, beautiful Waikiki beach, and great day hikes with lots of traffic.

If you’re looking for luxury resorts and golf courses, you’ll find them in West Maui. Plus, this is the best place to enjoy whale watching .

Or you can head outdoors with the Road to Hana and Haleakala National Park . All of this is why I think it’s the best Hawaiian island for solo travel.

Great if you’re an experienced outdoors person looking for a thrill and lots of challenging and breathtaking adventures. You can hike canyons, book helicopter rides, or raft down a river.

Kauai also has an incredible food scene with tons of food trucks, farm tours, and several farm-to-table restaurants.

This is the place for the solo traveler seeking a classic Hawaiian vacation experience. The Big Island of Hawaii enjoys a mix of great urban environments and natural areas.

Come here if you want to see lava at the  Hawaii Volcanoes National Park . And there are lots of tourist attractions, plus Kona coffee, and white sand beaches!

Where to Stay on a Solo Trip in Hawaii

The great thing about Hawaii solo travel is the many options you have when it comes to where you’ll rest your head.

You don’t have to worry about paying for extra people, and you only have to listen to your own comfort. You could even try out more than one of the great options below!

Solo trips are popular with avid campers. It’s the perfect setting to get back to nature, and who doesn’t want to sleep right on the beach? Hawaii has many great state parks and natural areas that offer camping permits. You can find tent camping, RV setups , and even cabins.

The tricky thing about Hawaii camping is that campsites are often isolated and offer very little when it comes to amenities. When you’re a single guy or gal going to Hawaii alone, it’s not recommended to be in the middle of nowhere by yourself, just in case.

But if you insist on including camping on your solo trip to Hawaii, there are safer ways! Try out  Hipcamp . It’s like VRBO, but for campsites.

In Hawaii, a lot of people who own farms or unique retreats use Hipcamp. You can find tent sites on beautiful ginger farms, RV camps, and even cabins and treehouses in the rainforest behind your host’s house. It’s a great way to get the camping experience, but with a little caution.

One big perk of solo trips is that they tend to be more affordable! A lot of singles in Hawaii will stay at cheap digs and save their money for big-price experiences. Staying at a hostel is a popular way to go.

If you’ve never considered a hostel, you should! They tend to offer dormitory-style rooms with 2-6 beds with shared common areas. You’ll cook and eat with your fellow boarders in the hostel kitchen.

And many hostels are a lot of fun with game rooms, outdoor spaces, and even group activities that you can sign up for! It’s a great way to meet new people and even find a crew to hang with in Hawaii.

One that I recommend is  The Beach Waikiki Hostel . It’s one of the best places in Hawaii for solo travel. You can enjoy super affordable lodgings in the heart of Waikiki near all the hustle and bustle.

They host BBQ nights and scheduled group outings you can sign up for and just pay a small fee to join to cover costs!

And if you’re in Maui on a surfer getaway, check out  Aloha Surf Hostel  in Paia on the Road to Hana. They have different buildings with a variety of boarding options.

It’s right off the beach and it’s perfect for surfers, because of the hostel’s built-in surf club! It’s also in Paia, which is super trendy with great shops, eateries, and nightlife.

If you prefer a traditional hotel while you’re traveling solo in Hawaii, there are plenty to choose from. For singles, you might want to look for adult-only sites with many high ratings.

If you consider yourself an eco-tourist,  Volcano Eco Retreat  is a great hotel and a unique experience.

Located on the Big Island, Volcano Eco Retreat feels like an exclusive, custom hotel experience. That’s because you’ll be in 1 of just 4 King-sized bungalows set in an Ohia rainforest on the side of Kilauea Volcano!

Enjoy daily vegan and vegetarian breakfast, as well as locally grown vegan and vegetarian dining options for the rest of the day. There are also cocktails and champagne that you can enjoy by the fire or in the outdoor whirlpool spa. Hang out in the common area, book a massage, or do yoga with complimentary mats. 

There are lush gardens where you can spend your day or use the hotel as a base to explore the nearby Hawaii Volcanoes National Forest. 

If you’re looking for the best Hawaii resorts for singles, I have a few options for you. Resorts offer amenities and services you don’t get at a hotel or vacation rental.

And on a solo trip, these amenities make a huge difference. There are restaurants, cocktail hours, and activities that offer you the chance to mingle with strangers and meet people.

The  Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa  is on Maui’s luxurious West Coast with so many amazing attractions and things to do for guests. Join a tennis match or hit the golf course.

Decompress at the outdoor Spa Moana or strike up a conversation at the Hyatt’s 5 on-site restaurants! And at the Moana Athletic Club, you can join a group hike or book a personal fitness trainer.

In Oahu, the  Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort  will make you feel like royalty. There are more than 20 restaurants and cocktail lounges, and you can even attend exclusive happy hours.

Go shopping, enjoy a spa, or lounge with new friends by 5 different pools. The Hilton also has group fitness classes and a cultural activity center for all ages. Read my full Hilton Hawaiian Village review .

Things to Do on Your Hawaii Solo Trip

On your solo trip to Hawaii, you might want to relax by a beach or go for a long hike. Just be aware of your surroundings and make wise choices.

Think about the fact that you’ll have to leave whatever you bring on the shore unattended. And it’s best to look for popular hikes where you’ll cross paths with other hikers!

So, here’s a list of the top things to do as a solo traveler in Hawaii!

• Visit historic sites like  Pearl Harbor  in Oahu and  Hulihe’e Palace  on Big Island
• Start the night off right and meet people on a  Waikiki Sunset Cocktail cruise
• Go on the  Diamond Head Crater Hike  for amazing views of Waikiki
• Look for the most popular Hawaiian foods, like poke, shave ice, and manapua
• Enjoy the iconic Waikiki in Oahu or visit Hawaii’s longest beach, the serene Papohaku Beach on Molokai
• Attend a classic luau, one of which is at the  Polynesian Cultural Center
• Island hopping is ideal for solo travelers, and it’s the best way to travel between the Hawaiian Islands
• Book  a helicopter tour of Kauai’s natural wonders , including Waimea Canyon and the Na Pali Coast
• Go on a snorkeling tour of the coral reefs at Molokini Crater
• Visit  the food trucks  around Kauai that are open every day of the week

FAQ about Solo Travel in Hawaii

A trip to Hawaii will include costs like flights, hotels, food, things to do, and travel on the island. This all typically runs between $2000 and $4000 for a week. There are ways to lower that cost a little on a solo trip, with cheaper hotels and free activities. Or you can splurge on the ultimate luxury retreat!

You’re more than welcome to go alone! Don’t worry about what people might think. Anyway, they’re having too much fun to think about the fact that you’re solo! In fact, most attractions and dinners in Hawaii are super welcoming to single travelers. Just do what you want to do and have the time of your life.

While Hawaii is known as one of the top honeymoon destinations in the world, it’s also great for singles. Each of the islands offers a different experience that will appeal to singles. Big Island has volcanoes and Oahu has great nightlife. For the ultimate outdoor adventure, go to Kauai. And Maui has a variety of cultural experiences.

Have a Blast Planning Your Solo Trip to Hawaii

A solo trip to Hawaii can be a rewarding experience. You can meet new friends if you’re brave enough to start a conversation. A solo trip is also a great way to retreat from it all and have an “Eat Pray Love” moment.

The Hawaiian Islands are safe for single travelers, and you’ll be surprised how welcome everyone will make you feel!

Looking for more Hawaii travel tips? Find out how to rent a car in Hawaii , best Hawaiian island for hiking , biggest Hawaii mistakes to avoid , and tips for visiting Hawaii for the first time !

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11 Best Things To Do In Oahu For Solo Travelers

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Since 2011, when I dipped my toe into the world of solo travel with my first trip to Paris, I have had an insatiable appetite for exploring the world on my own. The freedom and the growing confidence with each solo trip is empowering and overflows into all aspects of my life.

The older I get, the more I gravitate toward the sea (and all water). There’s something about the water, sand, and a clear blue sky that has a meditative effect on me. I appreciate nature more now than I did in my 20s and 30s. This was why Hawaii gently twisted my arm to come and visit. 

Oahu is a perfect destination for us solo travelers to immerse ourselves in nature. The sea, the mountains, the lush rainforests; there’s not only the beach and laid-back lifestyle, but the locals are friendly, too. The weather is amazing, and Oahu is a safe destination for solo travelers. 

There is so much to do and see on Oahu, and here I share some highlights that I enjoy when I’m exploring the island solo. 

I love the North Shore, and Haleiwa is the center of this part of Oahu. The North Shore is the “real Oahu,” celebrating the surfing lifestyle. 

You can easily spend a good part of the day in Haleiwa wandering in all the cool shops which sell everything from clothing to t-shirts, surfing gear, and home goods. Most of the shops are located right on Kamehameha Highway along a one-mile stretch. Much of that stretch has sidewalk, but part of the way does not. 

Haleiwa has some of the best food in Oahu. I love to grab a breakfast burrito at Kono’s in the North Shore Marketplace, find a nearby picnic table, and watch the island chickens scurry about. There are a few sit-down restaurants.

Pro Tip: I like to skip the restaurants in favor of a plate lunch at a food truck. Oahu has a very food truck-orientated lifestyle perfectly suited to solo travelers. That is clear in Haleiwa, where there are food trucks everywhere. My favorite is North Shore Crepes . Just look for the cute VW van.

2. Shave Ice At Matsumoto’s

You may run into a long line of tourists and locals in Haleiwa waiting for a shave ice sweet treat at Matsumoto’s . Trust me, it’s worth it.

Along with serving shave ice, the attached store sells all kinds of merchandise. T-shirts, pancake mixes, and other gift items are available.

Pro Tip: Ask for the add-on vanilla ice cream! Trust me.

Fun Fact: The Matsumoto’s opened their grocery store in 1951, eventually converting it to sell merchandise and souvenirs, then expanded and began selling shave ice topped with their own syrup recipes. Matsumoto’s is still a family-run business with only one location in the world. 

3. World-Class Surfing On The Banzai Pipeline

A real treat if you are visiting Oahu’s North Shore in the winter months is watching the pro surfers. You need a car to get to the pipeline. Drive past Waimea about 2 miles on Kamehameha Highway to “the pipeline.”

This is the most famous spot to watch the surfers in Hawaii. When the surf is right, swells from the northwest form those perfect barrels. 

The best viewing is about 100 yards left of Ehukai Beach Park. If you are lucky and score a parking spot in the park, it’s just a short walk onto the beach. The alternative is street parking. 

Pro Tip: Ask a shopkeeper at one of the surf shops in Haleiwa if the surfers are at the pipeline today. They will know if the conditions are right to go watch on that day. If they are, brace yourself for the traffic jam, and know it’s worth it! It’s a marvel to see the power of nature create those waves.

4. Kō Hana Hawaiian Agricole Rum Distillery

Visiting Kō Hana Distillery and sampling their rum is a uniquely Hawaiian experience. While molasses is the base for most rum, they make Kō Hana rum from the fresh juice of 36 varieties of heirloom sugar cane. These varieties are native to Hawaii and, like the grape to the wine producer, each cane variety produces a distinct flavor.

Kō Hana offers two different tours. Each tour also ends with a sampling of the rum. If you don’t have time for a tour, you can still enjoy a tasting.

5. Lanikai Beach

This half-mile-long stretch of beach is postcard perfect. The spectacular blues of the water and the powder-soft sand make Lanikai Beach one of the best beaches in the world. On the windward side of Oahu, the water is calm and a glorious spot for snorkeling over the reefs, swimming, and kayaking. 

Parking here can be difficult. There’s free street parking on one side of Mokulua Drive. This area is residential and access to the beach is by public walkways in between the properties, which helps to keep crowds down. 

Pro Tip: Go early in the day for a better chance of nearby parking, or you may need to park at Kailua Beach and walk (less than a mile) to Lanikai Beach. Kailua Beach has a sizeable parking lot and restrooms. Lanikai and Kailua Beach do not connect.

6. Mokule’ia Beach

When I travel solo, I prefer to avoid crowds. So if you’re looking for a beach that gives you a feeling that it’s all yours, this stretch of sandy shoreline is perfect. Although the surf is rough and you can’t swim here in winter, it’s the seemingly endless miles of beach that call to those looking for an escape from the crowded beaches in many other parts of Oahu. Here you can just pull your car over and step onto the beach. Take highway 930 (Farrington Highway) and pick your piece of beach heaven.

7. Wahiawā Botanical Garden

Wahiawā Botanical Garden is in central Oahu in the town of Wahiawā. This 27-acre botanical garden has two levels. The upper level and a ravine which is dense rainforest. Maps are available at the entrance and there is a self-guided tour included in the brochure as well. Accessing the ravine is by a steep trail, which can be hard to navigate for some, but those with mobility issues can still enjoy the upper part of the garden. Admission is free.

8. Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden

Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden backs up against the Ko’olau Mountains. While you can walk the garden, it’s best to drive through and stop at the parking lots to inspect. At the top, there is a parking area and a lookout you can walk up to. The view from the platform is astounding. The mountains, with their blanket of green, surround you and you feel you can almost reach out and touch them. You can drive through in 20 minutes, but why not allow at least a couple of hours? Admission is free.

9. Pearl Harbor

Pearl Harbor is a must when visiting Oahu. Taking that short, somber ride out to the USS Arizona Memorial was surreal. Walking around the grounds and walking through the museum was captivating. Being there on the actual site is an experience that is unforgettable. You can spend a half day here. 

Pro Tip: If you cannot score tickets for the tour of the USS Arizona Memorial, arrive early on the day you want to go. You wait in a line, and they add a few walk-ins on every departure to the memorial. I arrived first thing and had no trouble getting on the boat. 

10. Aloha Stadium Swap Meet

Instead of battling the crowds in Waikiki looking for fun souvenirs, this is the place to go. When I travel solo, I like one-stop shopping so I have more time for experiences, plus this is a fun place for people watching.

The swap meet is open three times each week: Wednesday and Saturday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sunday 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Up to 400 vendors sell everything from ukuleles to fresh fruit. Admission is $2 for ages 12 and up. Find additional details here .

11. Bailey’s Antiques And Aloha Shirts

Ask anyone on Oahu where to get a vintage Hawaiian shirt and they will name Bailey’s Antiques in Honolulu. Even if you’re not in the market for a shirt, stop anyway just to see pictures of the famous folks who have bought shirts here. 

If you’ve considered taking a solo trip to Oahu, you should. With an airport that is small and easily navigated, a main highway system that makes it easy to drive from one side of the island to another, quiet stretches of beach, and a food truck scene perfect for those of us who dine solo, you can’t beat it for that once-in-a-lifetime solo travel experience.

Pro Tip: Rent a car. We solo travelers are an independent bunch, and seeing the island by car is the best way to go. My suggestion is to check out Turo .

Lori has shared her travel experiences on TV, in print media, and through presentations. A born and raised Wisconsinite, Lori still lives in her hometown with her (non-traveling) husband, Rick, and their rescue dog, Vivi.

Solo Travel Hawaii: Make the Most of Your Hawaiian Solo Trip

Home » Solo Travel Hawaii: Make the Most of Your Hawaiian Solo Trip

Hawaii is a beautiful collection of islands nestled in the heart of the Pacific Ocean, beckoning solo travelers with open arms and promising an experience like no other.

Imagine yourself surrounded by lush landscapes, where emerald green mountains meet the deep blue of the Pacific, creating a blend of natural wonders that will leave you breathless.

Venturing into the world of solo travel is a transformative journey, offering a unique opportunity for self-discovery and personal growth. Hawaii, with its welcoming spirit, becomes the ideal backdrop for a first solo trip.

Whether you’re an avid adventurer seeking the thrill of hiking volcanic craters, a water enthusiast eager to surf the Pacific swells, or a soul in search of tranquillity amid tropical gardens, Hawaii offers a myriad of experiences that cater to every solo traveler’s desire.

Here, you will get to forge meaningful connections with locals and fellow travelers, as Hawaii’s Aloha spirit transcends mere hospitality, creating a sense of belonging wherever you go.

However, as you pack your bags and set forth on a solo journey to Hawaii—an experience that promises to offer even more than just a vacation, you need to be as prepared as you can be, and that is the essence of this guide.

In this guide, we invite you to explore all the relevant insights and knowledge that are required as you embark on a solo adventure to the tropical paradise that is the Hawaiian islands. Let us begin!

Solo Travel Hawaii: How to choose the right islands to visit

Each Hawaiian island possesses its unique charm, making it essential for solo travelers to align their interests and preferences with the distinct characteristics of each destination. Here’s a brief overview to assist in making an informed choice:

Oahu, home to Honolulu and Waikiki Beach , is the bustling epicentre of Hawaii. It combines urban excitement with stunning beaches, offering solo travelers a vibrant mix of city life and natural beauty.

It is ideal for solo travelers seeking a dynamic blend of nightlife, shopping, and cultural experiences. Oahu is perfect for those interested in historical sites such as Pearl Harbor and the vibrant energy of Honolulu.

Often referred to as the “Valley Isle,” Maui is renowned for its diverse landscapes, including lush rainforests, volcanic craters, and pristine beaches. It strikes a balance between relaxation and adventure.

Maui typically appeals to the solo traveler who appreciates a mix of outdoor activities, from snorkelling at Molokini Crater to exploring the scenic Road to Hana. Maui offers a laid-back atmosphere with luxury resorts and charming towns.

The Big Island (Hawaii)

The Big Island boasts diverse ecosystems, including active volcanoes and snow-capped peaks. It is the largest of the islands, offering a range of climates from tropical to alpine.

Someone traveling solo with a passion for geological wonders and outdoor adventures will love this island. Here, you can explore the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, stargaze atop Mauna Kea, and discover the island’s unique landscapes.

Known as the “Garden Isle,” Kauai is a lush paradise with dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and serene beaches. Its unspoiled beauty attracts those seeking tranquillity.

This is ideal for a Solo traveler desiring a peaceful escape into nature. Kauai offers scenic hiking trails like the Na Pali Coast, boat tours along the Wailua River, and a serene atmosphere for introspection.

Often considered the “Private Island,” Lanai is the smallest publicly accessible island with secluded beaches, luxury resorts, and a laid-back ambience.

Lanai is an amazing choice for people seeking a more exclusive and intimate experience. Lanai is perfect for relaxation, golfing, and enjoying the solitude of pristine landscapes.

Known for its authentic Hawaiian culture, Molokai is an unspoiled gem with small towns, rugged coastlines, and a deep connection to tradition.

This island is a great fit for travelers interested in immersing themselves in local culture and exploring Hawaii solo. Molokai provides a glimpse into traditional Hawaiian life, with opportunities for hiking, exploring historical sites, and embracing simplicity.

The North Shore

The North Shore in Hawaii typically refers to the northern coast of the island of Oahu. It is renowned for its stunning beaches, powerful surf, and laid-back atmosphere. The North Shore is a mecca for surfers, especially during the winter months when massive waves grace the area.

The North Shore of Oahu is the most well-known. It’s worth noting that other Hawaiian islands also have areas referred to as the “North Shore,” each with its unique charm and attractions.

Understanding the distinct features of each island allows solo travelers to tailor their Hawaiian experience to match their preferences, whether they seek adventure, relaxation, cultural immersion, or a combination of these elements.

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Understanding the cultural landscape in hawaii.

Navigating Hawaii’s rich cultural landscape with respect and understanding enhances the solo traveler’s experience. Here are key cultural nuances, customs, and etiquette tips to foster meaningful interactions with locals.

Aloha Spirit

Embrace the concept of “Aloha,” which goes beyond a simple greeting. It embodies love, compassion, and a welcoming spirit. Use “aloha” genuinely and reciprocate the warmth you receive.

When meeting someone, a handshake is common, but locals often greet with a hug or a kiss on the cheek among friends. A warm smile and eye contact convey friendliness.

Remove Shoes Indoors

It’s customary to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home. This practice is a sign of respect and cleanliness.

Respect for Nature (Mālama ʻĀina)

Hawaii’s natural beauty is cherished. Avoid littering, respect wildlife, and follow designated paths when exploring nature reserves. Mālama ʻāina translates to “care for the land.”

Sacred Sites

Some beaches and areas are considered sacred. Keep noise levels low, avoid disrupting rituals or ceremonies, and be mindful of posted signs indicating restricted access.

Appropriate Attire

Dress modestly when visiting Hawaii local communities, especially in rural areas. In beach towns, casual wear is common, but more conservative clothing may be appreciated in religious or traditional settings.

Sharing and Gift-Giving

Sharing is a fundamental value in Hawaiian culture. If invited to someone’s home, bringing a small gift or a dish to share is a thoughtful gesture.

Respecting Elders

Show respect to elders, using titles like “Aunty” and “Uncle” for older individuals. Allow them to initiate less formal terms of address.

Learn Basic Hawaiian Phrases

While English is widely spoken, learning a few Hawaiian phrases demonstrates cultural appreciation. “Mahalo” means thank you, and “aloha” is used for hello, goodbye, and love.

By embracing these cultural nuances and showing respect for local customs, solo travelers can forge genuine connections with the people of Hawaii and gain a deeper appreciation for the major hawaiian islands’ rich heritage.

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Accommodation and transportation options in hawaiian islands.

Navigating airports, arranging transportation, and settling into your solo trip to Hawaii can set the tone for a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are practical tips to guide you from the moment of arrival:

Airport Navigation

Familiarize yourself with the layout of the airport before arriving.

Major Hawaiian airports, like Honolulu International Airport (HNL), have clear signage, but it helps to have a general idea of where baggage claim, transportation services, and information desks are located.

Transportation Options

Research transportation options from the airport to your accommodation. Hawaii offers taxis, rideshare services, shuttle buses, and car rentals.

Choose the option that aligns with your preferences and budget. To avoid long queues or uncertainty, consider pre-booking transportation services.

This can be especially beneficial if you arrive during peak hours or busy travel seasons.

Shuttle services, a great transportation option

Many accommodations offer shuttle services. Check if your hotel provides an airport shuttle, as this can be a convenient and cost-effective way to reach your destination.

Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft operate in Hawaiian islands. Please familiarize yourself with the app, and have it ready on your phone for a hassle-free ride to your accommodation.

In some locations, public buses or shuttles may be available. Research the local transportation options and plan your route.

If you plan on exploring various parts of the island, renting a car provides flexibility. Book in advance to secure the best rates and ensure availability.

Also, ensure that you stay connected by getting a local SIM card or portable Wi-Fi device. This ensures you have internet access for maps, communication, and staying informed about local events.

Accommodation Services

Confirm the check-in details with your accommodation beforehand. Some places may have specific check-in times, and notifying them of your arrival time can facilitate a smoother process.

Accommodation options can range from luxury hotels to hosteling with other travelers depending on your preferences and budget.

Take a stroll around your accommodation to explore nearby amenities, restaurants, and services. Also familiarize yourself with the immediate surroundings for a comfortable stay.

Don’t forget to carry local money and an ID card

Keep your important documents, like ID, passport, and travel insurance, secure in a travel wallet. Be mindful of your belongings at all times.

Have some local currency on hand for immediate expenses. While credit cards are widely accepted, having cash can be convenient in certain situations.

By following these practical tips, you’ll ensure a seamless transition from the airport to your accommodation, setting the stage for an enjoyable solo travel experience in the beautiful islands of Hawaii.

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How to maximize your budget while on a solo trip to hawaii.

Managing expenses in Hawaii is crucial for a budget-friendly solo travel experience. Here are insights and strategies to help you make the most of your budget.

Consider a mix of accommodations, including budget-friendly hostels, vacation rentals, and mid-range hotels. Booking in advance and exploring options across different islands can help you find affordable stays.

Local Markets and Groceries

Opt for local markets and grocery stores for snacks and meals. This is not only cost-effective but also a great way to experience local produce and cuisine.

Happy Hours and Food Trucks

Take advantage of happy hour deals at restaurants and bars. Many places offer discounted prices on drinks and appetizers during specific hours. Explore the diverse food truck scene in Hawaii.

You’ll find delicious and affordable local dishes , ranging from plate lunches to fresh seafood, which are often very budget-friendly.

BYOB Restaurants

Look for BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle) restaurants to save on beverage costs. Purchase drinks from a store and enjoy them with your meal.

Free Activities

Hawaii offers numerous free activities, such as beachcombing, hiking, and exploring botanical gardens. Take advantage of the natural beauty without spending money.

Discover the islands through hiking trails, many of which are free or have a nominal entrance fee, and this allows you to experience Hawaii’s stunning landscapes without breaking the bank.

Local Festivals and Events

Check out local festivals and events happening during your stay. They often provide a glimpse into Hawaiian culture and are sometimes free or have affordable entry fees. Invest in discount cards or passes that offer savings on attractions, tours, and activities. Some cards provide access to multiple attractions at a discounted rate.

Rent Equipment

If you plan on engaging in water activities or exploring on your own, consider renting equipment instead of buying. This includes snorkel gear, surfboards, and bikes

Avoid Tourist Traps

Be cautious of tourist traps, where prices can be higher. Ask locals for recommendations to find authentic and affordable experiences

Budget Apps

Utilize budgeting apps to track your expenses and stay within your allocated spending limits. This helps you manage your finances effectively throughout your trip

By incorporating these strategies, you can make the most of your budget while enjoying the diverse experiences that Hawaii has to offer. From exploring nature to savouring local cuisine, there are plenty of ways to create lasting memories without overspending.

Wrapping Up

From breathtaking landscapes to vibrant cultural experiences, the Hawaiian islands offer a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation. Embrace the aloha spirit, savour unique local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the beauty of solo travel. Follow this guide and have an amazing experience.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Solo Travel in Hawaii

Is hawaii safe for solo travelers.

Yes, Hawaii is generally safe for solo travelers. Exercise common-sense precautions, stay aware of your surroundings, and follow local guidelines to ensure a secure experience.

What’s the best island for solo travelers in Hawaii?

The best island depends on your interests. Oahu offers a mix of city and nature, Maui is known for its diverse landscapes, and Kauai provides a serene escape. Research each island’s characteristics to find your ideal match.

How should I get around the islands as a solo traveler?

Transportation options include buses, rental cars, and shuttles. Choose based on your preferences and the activities you plan to engage in. Public transportation is available on most islands.

Are there group activities for solo travelers when you visit Hawaii?

Absolutely! Join group tours for activities like snorkelling, hiking, and cultural experiences. It’s a great way to meet fellow travelers and share the experience.

What are some budget-friendly dining options for solo travelers?

Explore food trucks, local markets, and casual eateries for affordable meals. Happy hours and local cafés are also good options. Don’t miss out on plate lunches and shave ice for a taste of local flavours.

How can I stay connected during my solo trip?

Purchase a local SIM card or use portable Wi-Fi devices for internet access. Most accommodations and public spaces offer Wi-Fi as well.

Are there solo-friendly accommodations in Hawaii?

Yes, there are various options, including hostels, boutique hotels, and vacation rentals. Look for accommodations with positive reviews from solo travelers.

What cultural etiquette should I be aware of in Hawaii?

Embrace the “aloha spirit” by being respectful and friendly. Remove shoes when entering someone’s home, learn a few basic Hawaiian phrases, and respect local customs.

How can I ensure my safety during solo travel in Hawaii?

Stay informed about local safety guidelines, have emergency contacts saved, and follow basic safety precautions. Purchase travel insurance for added security.

What outdoor activities are ideal for solo travelers in Hawaii?

Hiking, snorkelling, whale watching, surfing lessons, and exploring botanical gardens are great solo activities. Many tour companies cater to solo travelers, offering group experiences.

How should I prepare for unexpected situations like natural disasters?

Have a comprehensive travel insurance plan, stay informed about local emergency procedures, and familiarize yourself with evacuation routes. Always be prepared with essentials like water, non-perishable food, and a first aid kit.

Are there solo-friendly beaches in Hawaii?

Yes, many gorgeous beaches are perfect for solo travelers. Waikiki Beach (Oahu), Ka’anapali Beach (Maui), and Poipu Beach (Kauai) offer beautiful settings and a relaxed atmosphere.

Can I attend cultural events or festivals as a solo traveler?

Absolutely! Attend local events, festivals, and luaus to immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture. It’s an excellent opportunity to connect with locals and fellow travelers.

What’s the best time to visit Hawaii as a solo traveler?

Hawaii is a year-round destination. Consider your preferences—summer (April to October) for warmer weather or winter (November to March) for fewer crowds.

How can I engage with the local community as a solo traveler?

Participate in community events and volunteer opportunities and strike up conversations with locals. Attend cultural workshops or classes for a deeper connection.

Can I find solo traveler meetups or groups in Hawaii?

Check online platforms or travel forums for solo traveler meetups. Many destinations have social events or groups where solo travelers can connect and explore together.

Are there solo photography opportunities in Hawaii?

Absolutely! Capture the beauty of the islands on your own. Consider sunrise/sunset photography, nature shots, and documenting your solo journey through the stunning landscapes.

How can I be environmentally conscious as a solo traveler in Hawaii?

Respect the environment, avoid single-use plastics, participate in beach cleanups, and support eco-friendly initiatives. Contribute positively to the local communities and practice responsible tourism.

What should I pack for a solo trip to Hawaii?

Pack lightweight clothing, swimwear, sun protection, comfortable shoes for outdoor activities, a reusable water bottle, and a portable charger. Refer to the specific packing tips outlined earlier.

Can I meet other solo travelers in Hawaii?

Yes, Hawaii attracts solo travelers from around the world. Engage in group activities, join tours, and stay in social accommodations to increase your chances of meeting fellow solo adventurers.

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• Solo Travel Honolulu: Your Essential Guide to Oahu

Are you thinking about a solo travel adventure in Honolulu?

Whether you’ve wanted to explore Oahu’s gorgeous beaches, learn about the Aloha State's history, or check out nightlife hotspots, you're in for a treat.

However, traveling alone can be intimidating if not correctly prepared.

That's why we've put together this comprehensive guide for solo travelers heading to Honolulu – so get ready to make the most out of your experience with tips on accommodations, activities, and more!

Is Honolulu Safe for Solo Travelers?

Honolulu, Hawaii is a magnificent destination that offers many opportunities for solo travel. However, as with any city, there are concerns about safety.

The good news is that Honolulu ranks as one of the safest cities in the United States. You will find friendly locals and a laid-back atmosphere that makes this city welcoming.

Honolulu has a thriving tourism industry, and there are always plenty of travelers around, so you won't feel isolated.

Is Honolulu Safe For Solo Female Travelers?

When it comes to solo travel, safety is always a top concern. As a female traveler, safety becomes an even more pressing issue.

Honolulu is indeed safe for solo female travelers. And while it's one of the safest places in the country, make sure to exercise the same caution and common sense you would use in an unfamiliar city.

Solo Travel Honolulu: Your Ultimate Guide to Exploring Oahu Solo

A solo travelers seeking adventure, Honolulu is the ultimate destination. 

The city is a beautiful blend of modernity and rich culture that will take your breath away. The vibrant scene of the city life is electric, as you immerse yourself in the energy of the locals.

Explore the city's serene and sandy beaches, which offer peaceful escapes to soothe the soul. Take a trip to the cultural landmarks that reflect the city's rich cultural heritage.

Unmissable Attractions for Solo Travelers in Honolulu

For solo travelers looking to explore Hawaii's vibrant capital, Honolulu offers must-see attractions that will make your trip unforgettable. 

Here are some of the best things to do for solo travelers near Honolulu.

Hiking Diamond Head

One experience that should not be missed is hiking to the top of Diamond Head . Rising over 750 feet above sea level, Diamond Head offers stunning panoramic views of Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean.

Some people may wonder if hiking Diamond Head is safe for a solo traveler, but with the proper precautions, this hike can be completely doable and safe.

The hike itself is relatively short, but steep and challenging, making it a perfect way to get some exercise while also taking in the beauty of Hawaii.

As you make your way to the top, you'll be surrounded by lush vegetation and rocky terrain, making for a truly immersive experience.

Exploring Waikiki

While the city offers countless attractions, exploring Waikiki is an unmissable experience that shouldn't be skipped.

From the world-famous Waikiki Beach and its crystal-clear waters to the lively Kalakaua Avenue with its shops, restaurants, and nightlife, there's something for everyone in this vibrant area.

With its welcoming atmosphere and friendly locals, Waikiki is a great place to meet fellow travelers and enjoy everything Honolulu has to offer.

Eating at Chinatown

Exploring any city alone can be daunting, especially when it comes to dining options.

Luckily, in Chinatown, solo travelers can savor the taste of delicious and affordable meals with ease.

Chinatown has become one of the staple eating destinations for foodies all around the world, its diverse culinary offerings.

From traditional dim sum to exotic Vietnamese dishes, Chinatown offers a melting pot of cultural flavors that's sure to tickle your taste buds.

Learn About Hawaii's History at Pearl Harbor

The must-visit attractions is the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, where visitors can learn about the tragic events of December 7, 1941, that led to America's entry into World War II.

The memorial features a museum, a film about the attack, and a boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial, which honors the lives lost during the attack.

As a solo traveler, you can take your time and absorb the history of this unforgettable site, paying your respects to the courage and sacrifice of those who fought for their nation.

With excellent security measures in place, you can have a worry-free solo trip and enjoy the rich history of Pearl Harbor at your own pace. That being said, we recommend joining a day tour to make the most of it.

Take a Tour at Kualoa Ranch

This magnificent 4,000-acre private nature reserve hosts some of the most breathtaking natural scenery, ranging from rugged mountains to sparkling ocean vistas, and everything in between.

As a solo traveler, you can take advantage of their comprehensive tours, which cater to individuals looking to explore this stunning slice of paradise.

Rest assured, Kualoa Ranch is an incredibly safe destination for anyone traveling alone, with friendly staff and certified guides ready to assist you on your journey.

Join a tour, make some new friends, and discover the beauty of Honolulu's most unmissable attraction.

Section Key-Takeaway

Honolulu is the perfect destination for adventurous solo travelers, offering a mix of modernity, culture, serene beaches, historical landmarks, diverse foods and adventure activities.

Tips for Solo Travelers in Honolulu

To maximize your trip and avoid any problems, it's important to have a solid plan.

Research the local customs and traditions, and familiarize yourself with the area before you arrive.

Safety should always be a top priority, so it's important to be aware of your surroundings and avoid any risky situations.

Choosing Your Accommodation in Honolulu

A solo adventure to Honolulu can be an exciting prospect, but where you choose to stay can make or break the trip.

When it comes to selecting a suitable accommodation, there are several factors to consider. Budget, location, and amenities are a few essentials that can play a significant role in determining the perfect spot.

If you like a hotel with a spa or a more budget-friendly hostel with shared spaces, narrowing down your priorities and researching your options before setting off can help you make the best choice for your personal preferences.

Location-wise, we recommend staying near Waikiki Beach to be within walking distance to the major tourist attractions, or near Diamond Head for a calmer getaway.

Navigating Through Oahu Solo

Oahu offers plenty of transportation options to suit different preferences and budgets. From "TheBus" to rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, there are tons of ways to get around.

For those feeling sporty, bicycle or moped rentals might be the perfect fit. If you're looking to cover larger distances at your own pace, renting a car could be the way to go.

However, be aware that traffic in Honolulu can be heavy at times. For those who prefer to walk or ride a bike, the island boasts countless bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly paths.

With so many options available, solo travelers will have no trouble exploring all that Oahu has to offer.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable solo trip to Honolulu, travelers should research local customs and traditions, choose their accommodation wisely, leverage technology, and be aware of their surroundings.

Outdoor Adventures In Oahu

Surrounded by stunning scenery and endless possibilities for adventure, Honolulu on Oahu Island is the perfect destination for solo travelers seeking an outdoor thrill.

Whether you are hiking through lush green landscapes, surfing in the crystal clear waters, or simply soaking up the sun on a white sand beach,

Here are the best things to do as a solo traveler in Oahu.

Swimming at Ko Olina Pools

Located on the west side of the island, these paradise-like pools offer a calm and peaceful swimming experience that's hard to come by in a bustling city.

Not only can you swim in these pools, but you can also snorkel amongst a diverse range of marine life, including colorful tropical fish and spinner dolphins.

Known for its underwater world, these pools provide the perfect opportunity to go snorkeling.

It's no wonder why solo travelers rate it as a top-rated place to visit, an ideal spot to recharge, find peace, and connect with nature.

Surfing at Ala Moana

Located in Oahu, Ala Moana Beach Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and thrill seekers alike.

Surfing at this beach is a must-try experience, especially for those who are eager to learn. With gentle waves that are perfect for beginners, this park offers ideal conditions that make it easy to get the hang of surfing in no time.

To make things even better, there are plenty of surf schools available that offer lessons tailored to help you get up on the board and ride the waves like a pro. 

Finding Peace at Byodo-In Temple

Take a break from the chaos of Honolulu and step into a world of tranquility at Byodo-In Temple.

The elegant replica of the original temple in Kyoto boasts breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and a lush garden that will soothe your senses.

Taking a few minutes to meditate at this serene oasis is an experience that will leave you feeling recharged and rejuvenated.

Before you go, don't forget to ring the temple bell for good luck and blessings. This outdoor adventure is not only a trip to Japan on Oahu island, but also an opportunity to find peace in the stillness of nature.

Honolulu on Oahu Island is the perfect destination for solo travelers looking to explore lush landscapes and enjoy outdoor activities like surfing, swimming, and meditation.

Conclusion:

As you explore stunning Honolulu and the diverse coastlines of Oahu on your solo travel journey, keep in mind all of the amazing experiences that can be found throughout this beautiful island.

No matter what your solo travel style may be, there's something here for everyone – from outdoor adventure to eating delights and historic sites.

Your solo journey is a chance to make new memories with yourself first, then bring along friends or family back home so you can share your stories!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is honolulu good for solo travelers.

Absolutely. With its vibrant city life, calm beaches and a host of cultural attractions, Honolulu is a fantastic destination for solo explorers.

Is Hawaii fun for solo travelers?

Hawaii offers loads of activities that make it enjoyable for single adventurers. Think snorkeling, hiking trails or just lounging on the beach with a book.

Is Oahu a good place to solo travel?

Oahu is an excellent choice. It's packed with historical sites, outdoor adventures and tasty local food options making it ideal for those traveling alone.

Is it easy to get around Honolulu without a car?

Yes, it's easy to get around Honolulu without a car, as you can call a taxi, walk from Waikiki Beach to other major attractions, or join a tour and share the day with other travelers.

How safe is Hawaii for solo female travelers?

Hawaii is a fantastic destination for solo female travellers.

With its stunning landscapes, breathtaking beaches, and friendly locals. Any location can present potential safety concerns, the crime rate in Hawaii is low, making it a generally secure place to visit.

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Exploring Oahu Alone: A 10-Day Solo Traveler's Guide

Hang on to your flip-flops, folks, because we’re about to whisk you off on a whirlwind tour of Oahu. Known as ‘The Gathering Place,’ Oahu is your one-stop shop for fun, sun, and a whole lot of “Aloha!” Mapping out a 10-day itinerary is not about restricting spontaneity. It’s ensuring you get the absolute most out of your solo adventure. Think of it as your personal treasure map, leading you to hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path wonders you might miss in the whirl of Hawaiian hospitality. So grab your planner, it’s time to chart your course through paradise!

Day 1: Arrival and Getting Acquainted

Arrival at Honolulu International Airport

Touchdown! Welcome to Honolulu International Airport, the gateway to your epic solo adventure. Let the island vibes seep through as soon as you step off the plane—smile at the swaying palm trees, soak up the warm tropical breeze, and get ready to say “aloha” to an unforgettable journey! Don’t worry about getting lost in the shuffle; the airport is well-signed, making navigating your way to luggage claim and transportation options a breeze.

Check-in at Accommodations

Next up, time to check in at your chosen slice of paradise. Whether you’ve opted for a cozy B&B nestled in the heart of downtown Honolulu , a hip hostel by the beach, or a luxurious resort with a view of Diamond Head , you’ll find a warm Hawaiian welcome waiting for you. Remember, this is your solo adventure. Unpack, unwind, and set the pace for your journey. Feel the jet lag creeping in? No worries, mate! There’s plenty of time to explore tomorrow. For now, why not lounge by the pool, feast on some local delicacies, or simply enjoy the golden sunset from your lanai? After all, you’re in Oahu—it’s time to live on island time!

Explore Waikiki Beach and its solo traveler-friendly features

First things first, it’s time to hit the world-renowned Waikiki Beach . With its clear turquoise waters and golden sandy shores, this beach is the perfect place to start your solo journey. Don’t forget your sunscreen and a good book—because you’re about to catch some serious rays and relaxation! And if you’re feeling brave, why not try your hand at surfing ? There are plenty of surf schools lining the beachfront that cater to all levels, making it a perfect solo-friendly activity. And hey, when the sun starts to set, treat yourself to a stroll along the beach – the sunsets here are nothing short of magical!

Suggested Solo Dining Options for the Evening

After a day of sun-soaked adventures, your tummy might be rumbling. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. For your first night, head to ‘Duke’s Waikiki’ , a favorite among locals and tourists alike, offering a great seafood selection with stunning beach views. If you’re in the mood for sushi, ‘Sansei Seafood Restaurant & Sushi Bar’ is a must-try. Their creative rolls and fresh sashimi will surely satisfy your cravings.

Day 2: Historical and Cultural Exploration

Visit Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial

Get ready to step back in time on your second day in Oahu. Wake up early and make your way to Pearl Harbor , a significant historical site that offers a sobering reminder of the devastating events of December 7, 1941. Take a moment to visit the USS Arizona Memorial , a poignant tribute to the 1,177 crewmen who lost their lives during the attack. A visit to this historical site will undoubtedly leave you with a deep appreciation for the sacrifices made during wartime.

Explore the history of the island at the Bishop Museum

In the afternoon, swap the somber atmosphere of Pearl Harbor for the dynamic and vibrant history of Hawaii at the Bishop Museum . As the largest museum in the state, you’ll discover the rich cultural history of the Hawaiian Islands and the Pacific region. Here, you’ll find everything from royal artifacts to Polynesian arts and crafts. This educational and fascinating journey into Hawaii’s past is a must-do for any solo traveler seeking to understand this unique island paradise at a deeper level.

Attend a Traditional Hawaiian Luau

There’s no better way to dive headfirst into Hawaiian culture than by experiencing a traditional Luau . As the sun dips below the horizon, and the sea turns a shade of twilight blue, immerse yourself in the vibrant Polynesian dance performances, the soulful Hawaiian music, and the mouthwatering local cuisine. Don’t worry about feeling alone; there are plenty of communal tables with solo-friendly seating options. So, put on your best Aloha shirt, and get ready to sway with the rhythm of the islands!

Nighttime Entertainment and Solo-Friendly Nightlife Recommendations

As the stars twinkle above, Oahu comes alive with an enticing array of nightlife experiences perfect for the solo traveler. Hit up a local bar like Chez Sports Bar and Grill for a delicious fruity cocktail – did someone say Pina Colada? Or maybe you’re up for some live music? The local scene brims with soulful tunes that’ll have you tapping your foot in no time. If you’re looking for something more mellow, a moonlit stroll along the beach might just be the perfect end to your day. So, whether you’re in the mood for a night of dancing and music or just some quiet time under the stars, Oahu’s nightlife scene has you covered!

Day 3: Hiking and Adventure

Solo Hike to Diamond Head

Kick-off day two with an invigorating early morning hike to the Diamond Head Crater . With a trail that’s as challenging as it is rewarding, it promises awe-inspiring panoramic views of Honolulu and the sparkling Pacific Ocean. Don’t forget to pack a hearty breakfast to enjoy at the summit! Remember, it’s just you, the crisp morning air, and a scenery that’ll make you believe you’re living in a postcard.

Solo Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay

After catching your breath from the Diamond Head adventure, next on our list is the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve . Famous for its clear turquoise waters and vibrant marine life, Hanauma Bay is a snorkeling paradise. This is your chance to swim alongside the humuhumunukunukuapua’a fish! The bay is perfectly designed for solo travelers, with guides and equipment rentals easily available. Prepare to be captivated by the underwater wonderland that is Hanauma Bay, all at your own pace and comfort.

Sunset Beach Picnic

As the day draws to a close, snag yourself a prime spot at the iconic Sunset Beach . Pack a picnic with local treats — think poke bowls, fresh pineapple, and of course, a refreshing Mai Tai. For the non-cooks, swing by Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck for some truly mouthwatering garlic shrimp. Then, just kick back, relax, and let the radiant hues of the setting sun end your day on a spectacular note. After all, enjoying a sunset in Oahu is nothing short of a spiritual experience, more so when you savor it alone.

Day 4: North Shore Exploration

Drive to the North Shore of Oahu

Pack up your beach gear, don’t forget the sunscreen, and let’s hit the road to the North Shore ! This scenic drive is a journey itself, an opportunity to appreciate Oahu’s stunning landscapes that shift from concrete urban jungles to lush green valleys, sparkling blue waters, and untamed countryside. Feel the island breeze as you cruise down Kamehameha Highway, with the ocean on one side and towering mountain ranges on the other. Remember, the solo road trip to the North Shore is all about the ride and not just the destination, so take it slow, and make sure to stop at the numerous lookouts for unforgettable photo ops!

Explore the famous Banzai Pipeline

Welcome to surfing Mecca, the world-renowned Banzai Pipeline ! This legendary surf spot is famous for its massive waves that form perfect, pipe-like barrels, a sight to behold whether you’re a seasoned surfer or not. While the Pipeline is a magnet for pro surfers, it’s also a must-see for any North Shore visitor. Find a comfy spot on the golden sands, watch in awe as surfers tackle the monstrous waves, and let the raw power of nature captivate you. But remember, safety comes first! Unless you’re an experienced surfer, it’s better to enjoy the Pipeline’s beauty from the shore, as the strong current and sharp reef can be dangerous. So sit back, relax, and let the Banzai Pipeline’s mesmerizing performance leave you spellbound!

Solo Surfing or Paddleboarding Lessons

Ready to ride the waves? Spend your morning at Haleiwa , the surfing capital of the world. Oahu’s North Shore is known for its numerous watersports . Many surf schools are offering private lessons for solo travelers. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer looking to improve your skills or a newbie eager to catch your first wave, this will be an experience you won’t forget. If surfing isn’t your thing, opt for a paddleboarding lesson instead. It’s a great way to explore the calm, crystal-clear waters of the Anahulu River while getting a good workout.

Sample North Shore's Renowned Food Trucks

After a tiring morning of water sports, you’re sure to have worked up an appetite. But don’t worry, North Shore’s got you covered with its famous food trucks. Try Haleiwa Bowls for some fresh acai bowls, or head to Giovanni’s for their legendary garlic shrimp. For dessert, swing by Matsumoto’s for a refreshing shave of ice – a local favorite. These food trucks offer a culinary adventure that’s as exciting as your surfing or paddleboarding session!

Day 5: Art and Culture

Visit the Polynesian Cultural Center

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Pacific Island cultures at the Polynesian Cultural Center . Here, you can witness and participate in engaging cultural presentations, from the thunderous drums of Aotearoa to the captivating stories of Samoa. Remember, you’re not just a bystander but an honorary islander for the day!

Explore Haleiwa town and its art galleries

Next, journey to the quaint town of Haleiwa, known for its local arts scene. Wander through its numerous art galleries showcasing everything from traditional to contemporary art, all inspired by the beauty of Oahu. Don’t forget to pop into the vibrant artist-run spaces where you can chat with the creators themselves!

Sunset Viewing at a Scenic Spot

End your day of cultural exploration with a breathtaking sunset view at the Pupukea Marine Life Conservation District. As the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with hues of purple and orange, you’ll understand why artists find endless inspiration in Oahu’s stunning landscapes. This tranquil moment is a perfect way to reflect on the art and culture that breathe life into this island paradise.

Day 6: Nature and Adventure

Visit the Byodo-In Temple

Today we’re immersing ourselves in the serenity and beauty of Oahu’s spiritual side. Our first stop is the Byodo-In Temple nestled within the Valley of the Temples. This striking replica of a 900-year-old Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Japan is a sight to behold. Stroll around the tranquil Koi ponds, admire the ornate details of the temple, and even ring the sacred Peace Bell to wash away earthly desires. Amidst the lush Ko’olau Mountains, this serene sanctuary is a perfect place for some quiet contemplation.

Experience a solo-friendly horseback riding tour

Oahu’s ranches offer guided tours that are perfect for solo travelers. After the tranquil morning, it’s time to saddle up, because we’re heading for a horseback riding adventure at Kualoa Ranch ! Trot along scenic trails, soaking in the panoramic views of Oahu’s countryside, stunning coastlines, and lush mountain ranges. It’s a wonderful opportunity to bond with these gentle creatures while exploring Oahu’s natural wonders. Yee-haw, it’s gonna be a fantastic ride!

Hike through the lush Manoa Falls Trail

Switching gears, let’s amp up the adventure with a hike through the verdant Manoa Falls Trail . This solo-friendly journey is a treat for nature lovers, with its serene bamboo forests, exotic flowers, and of course, the breathtaking 150-foot waterfall at the trail’s end. Feel the mist on your face as you marvel at the cascading waters – a perfect picture of paradise! Remember to pack your rain gear and a swimsuit for a refreshing dip in the pool at the bottom of the falls.

Options for solo travelers to capture the beauty of Oahu

Capturing the infinite beauty of Oahu is a must for any solo traveler. So, let’s get snap-happy, shall we? For the Instagrammers, the vibrant Kaka’ako Walls are a must-visit. This outdoor art museum is a riot of color and creativity, perfect for adding some pop to your feed. For those equipped with DSLRs, the panoramic views from Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout are a dream. Overlooking the Windward Coast and Kaneohe Bay , it offers a stunning vista of sea, sky, and towering cliffs. Sunrise and sunset are prime times for this spot. How about a drone? The mesmerizing H3 freeway shot, with its curving road through the mountains, is a favorite among drone photographers. And of course, don’t forget to capture the everyday moments – the food you eat, the people you meet, and the experiences that make your Oahu adventure uniquely yours.

Day 7: Relaxation and Wellness

Spend a Day at a Solo-Friendly Spa or Wellness Retreat

After a week of adrenaline-fueled adventures, Day 7 calls for some well-earned rest. And what better way to unwind than pampering yourself at one of Oahu’s top-notch spas or wellness retreats ? Whether it’s a traditional Hawaiian ‘Lomi Lomi’ massage, a rejuvenating facial, or a soak in a calming seaweed bath, it’s all about treating yourself to a day of opulent indulgence. Many spas offer packages specially crafted for solo travelers, ensuring you’re never feeling out of place. So, get ready to slather on that mud mask, sip on that herbal tea, and soak in the tranquility. After all, self-care is an adventure in itself!

Explore the Lanikai Beach Area

Once you’re refreshed and revitalized, a visit to Lanikai Beach is a must. With its powder-soft sands, crystal-clear waters, and swaying palm trees, Lanikai Beach is a slice of paradise perfect for a peaceful solo exploration. Take a stroll along the shore, engage in a tranquil yoga session, or just sit back and enjoy the view of the Mokulua Islands from the beach — Lanikai will not disappoint. Don’t forget to catch the golden hour for some stunning sunset vistas. This laid-back beach experience is the perfect way to round off your day of relaxation and wellness.

Solo Yoga or Meditation Experiences on the Beach

Give yourself the gift of peace and tranquility with a solo yoga or meditation session on one of Oahu’s serene beaches. As the gentle waves caress the shore and the salty breeze dances around you, let the calming ambiance guide you into a state of relaxation. Unravel your yoga mat or yoga on a stand up paddle as the first rays of dawn break, or settle into meditative bliss under the soothing hues of a twilight sky. Several local yoga teachers offer private sessions, or you can simply follow an online guide. Either way, this experience is all about reconnecting with yourself amidst nature’s grandeur.

Dining Options for a Healthy and Peaceful Evening

To cap off your day of wellness and relaxation, indulge in a healthy and peaceful dining experience. Oahu is home to several organic restaurants and cafes that combine fresh, locally sourced ingredients with culinary expertise to create nutritious and delicious meals. Try ‘Ai Love Nalo for their vibrant vegan options, or head to ‘Umeke Market for a taste of their wholesome Hawaiian bowls.  Whichever option you choose, you’re in for a meal that leaves you feeling satisfied, not stuffed!

Day 8: Water Adventures

Snorkel at Hanauma Bay or Shark's Cove

Get ready to dive into Day 8 with a refreshing snorkel at Hanauma Bay or Shark’s Cove . Both spots are renowned for their clear waters and abundant marine life, teeming with dazzling fish and vibrant coral reefs. If you’ve already visited Hanauma Bay on Day 2, Shark’s Cove offers a delightful variation. Watch out, though; despite its ominous name, Shark’s Cove is shark-free but packed full of other fascinating sea creatures that are sure to make your snorkeling adventure one for the books!

Solo-friendly stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking

After exploring the underwater wonders, it’s time to conquer the sea’s surface with some stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking ! Both activities are solo-friendly, offering you the opportunity to navigate the tranquil Hawaiian waters at your own pace. For the paddleboard enthusiasts, glide serenely across the water, taking in the breathtaking coastal views. If kayaking is more your speed, rent a kayak and traverse the waterways, perhaps even venturing to the offshore islands. It’s the perfect blend of adventure, fitness, and pure joy in one sun-drenched Hawaiian day! Enjoy the freedom that comes with solo travel as you chart your path across the azure sea.

Embark on a Catamaran Cruise with Other Solo Travelers

As the afternoon sun mows, it’s time to set sail on a catamaran cruise , a fantastic way to socialize with other solo travelers while savoring the beauty of Oahu’s coastline. Watch the sun dance on the ocean’s surface, sip on a refreshing Mai Tai, and swap travel tales with fellow adventurers. The ocean breeze, the rhythmic lull of the waves, and the camaraderie on board make this a truly memorable experience.

Day 9: Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Visit off-the-beaten-path spots like Makapu'u Point

Ditch the tourist hotspots and welcome the less-traveled routes on Day 9! First up, we’re heading to the southeastern tip of Oahu to discover the enchanting Makapu’u Point , a hidden gem that’s as captivating as it is serene. Take a leisurely hike up the Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail, where success tastes like panoramic ocean views and a chance to spot migrating humpback whales. The tranquility here is a solo traveler’s dream. With each step, feel your connection with nature deepen, and let the raw beauty of the Hawaiian landscape wash over you.

Solo-friendly local markets for souvenirs and authentic food

Are you ready to dive into the bustling, vibrant world of Oahu’s local markets? Perfect for the solo adventurer, these markets are a hive of activity and cultural experiences. Visit the KCC Farmers Market for a cornucopia of local produce, artisanal goods, and mouth-watering street food. Don’t miss out on tasting malasadas, a Portuguese donut loved by locals. For those hunting for souvenirs, the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet offers an assortment of Hawaiian crafts, apparel, and trinkets to remember your Oahu Odyssey. Remember, bargaining is a sport, so play fair and play fun!

Interactions with Local Communities and Solo-friendly Experiences

Engaging with the local community is an enriching part of traveling solo. In Oahu, this could mean participating in the neighborhood farmers market or joining a traditional Hawaiian luau. These experiences not only offer the chance to sample fresh local produce or learn the hula dance but also provide opportunities to interact with locals, immersing yourself in the island’s rich cultural tapestry. Friendly and hospitable, the locals often have the best recommendations for hidden gems, from remote hiking trails to secluded beaches.

Day 10: Farewell and Departure

Making the Most of Your Last Day on Oahu

Savor every moment of your final day in Oahu. Rise early and head to Lanikai Beach for a serene sunrise, the sky ablaze with hues of pink and orange creating an unforgettable canvas. Afterward, maybe take a stroll around the charming beach town of Kailua , or have a refreshing swim in the ocean. Perhaps visit a local farmers’ market for some fresh and vibrant Hawaiian produce, or treat yourself to a souvenir shopping spree. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s in line with your vibe and keeps those Oahu memories fresh!

Options for a Sunrise Experience or Last-Minute Activities

For the early birds, a morning paddleboard session in Kailua Bay offers a fantastic sunrise viewing opportunity, coupled with a light workout. Alternatively, you can opt for a tranquil yoga session on the beach, saluting the sun as it greets the day. If you’d rather soak up some last-minute culture, visit the Honolulu Museum of Art or explore the historic Chinatown. For a final dash of adventure, consider a scenic helicopter tour for a bird’s eye view of the island. Your last day in Oahu is all about bidding a fond farewell to the island in a way that suits your style and pace.

Checking out and Leaving Oahu

As you check out of your stay and prepare for departure, take one last look at the island paradise that’s been your home-away-from-home for the past ten days. Pack your bags, but leave room for all the memories, experiences, and friendships you’ve made during your solo adventure. Whether you’re heading to the airport or embarking on another leg of your journey, remember to leave nothing but footprints and take nothing but photographs!

Solo Traveler Safety Tips for Oahu

Solo travel opens up a world of discovery and self-growth. However, it’s essential to prioritize safety. In Oahu, emergency services can be reached by dialing 911. Always inform someone about your day’s plans or itinerary. Try to blend in with the crowd and avoid displaying valuable items openly. Trust your intuition—if something feels off, it probably is. Lastly, remember that safety starts with you. Be cautious, be aware, and most importantly, enjoy your adventure responsibly!

Useful Apps and Resources for Solo Travelers

Living in the digital age means we have a plethora of resources right at our fingertips. Use Google Maps for navigation, and download the offline maps in case you’re out of cell service. Check out HawaiiActivties.com for finding local eats and attractions, and The Weather Channel app will help you plan your day according to the forecast. For connectivity, WhatsApp and Skype are handy for staying in touch with loved ones back home.

Suggested Packing List for Oahu Solo Trips

Nailing the packing list is key for a hassle-free solo trip to Oahu. Essentials to consider include a sturdy backpack, comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, and a quick-dry towel for those impromptu beach visits. For protection against the Hawaiian sun, don’t forget a hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen. A reusable water bottle is a must to stay hydrated and pack some on-the-go snacks for your adventures. Lastly, carry a good book or download some movies for your downtime, because even solo travelers need to relax!

The Diversity of Oahu’s Solo-Friendly Activities is Truly Unparalleled!

This 10-day itinerary merely scratches the surface of Oahu’s offerings. The island brims with a myriad of experiences waiting to be discovered, each more enriching and unique than the last. But remember, this is your adventure. Feel free to veer off the set path and create an itinerary that sings to your soul. Want to spend an extra day basking on the sun-kissed beaches of Waikiki? Do it! Feel the call of the verdant Manoa Falls trail? Follow it! It’s all about embracing the freedom to explore, to encounter the unexpected, and to create an adventure that is uniquely, wonderfully yours. So strap on your explorer’s hat and step into the sunshine, Oahu awaits!

A writer whose words flow where the mountains meet the sea.

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Solo Travel in Hawaii: Oahu for Solo Travellers

Hawaii was somewhere I’ve wanted to go for years- ever since I saw Blue Crush. I might have even harboured secret dreams about being a surfer girl but, sadly, my surf lesson in Ireland  proved that will never happen).  Throughout high school I doodled hibiscus flowers on all of my binders and notebooks, gazed longingly at internet photos of Hawaii’s lush islands and beaches, and daydreamed about swimming with dolphins, manta rays, and hundreds of colourful fish. Fast-forward to 2018 and, thanks to a seat sale and some strategic planning, I finally got my chance to visit Hawaii for the first time. However, as excited as I was for my South Pacific adventures, I did wonder about solo travel in Hawaii. Would I love it? Or would it be awkward since Hawaii is known as a romantic honeymoon destination?

For my solo travel in Hawaii, I chose Oahu. This was mainly because it was the cheapest island to fly in and out of from Canada. But also because Oahu had direct flights once a week to Fiji- which was where I was headed. I ended up spending about 1 week in Hawaii . It was a ton of fun and the island was just as beautiful as I had hoped. As for solo travel in Hawaii? Well, I can only speak for Oahu but it was ok. Not amazing, but doable and I did enjoy myself enough to have gone back in 2021 for a couple of days. With that being said, I do have some tips and advice to pass on to others.

Tips for Solo Travel in Hawaii: Oahu for Solo Travellers

Public Transit Around the Island is Definitely Lacking

I think this was my biggest disappointment when it came to solo travel in Oahu. While I could easily get around Waikiki and Honolulu with the local bus service, travelling around the Island itself was much more difficult- bordering on impossible. Maybe if I had more time and could afford to spend hours on small buses stopping at each town across the way but let’s be honest, no one comes to Hawaii to spend hours sitting (or standing) on a bus.

Renting a car is clearly the best choice when it comes to the Hawaiian Islands but that wasn’t an option for me so I felt pretty stuck in Honolulu. Which wasn’t awful, I found things to do, but Honolulu wasn’t exactly the Hawaii I wanted to see. I wanted rainforest and mountains and secluded beaches. Not skyscrapers and shopping malls and crowds.

Thankfully, there are plenty of day tour options from Waikiki area that will take you to explore more of the island. I did a full day circle island tour one day which was perfect for seeing the countryside or, in my mind, the real Hawaii. I also took a snorkel and sight-seeing tour out to the west coast to see the wild spinner dolphins .  While neither experience was cheap, I was grateful for all the tour options available that meant I could get out of the city.

Hawaii is Expensive

This really isn’t a surprise as Hawaii has a reputation for coming with a price tag, but I think I felt it more as a solo traveller than I would have if I was travelling with someone else and could have split costs on things like a hotel and maybe even renting a car. Everything in Hawaii was expensive from food and drink to tours to accommodation. While I tried to explore on the cheap, sometimes I just needed to say ‘fuck it’ and fork out the money to make sure I had the Hawaii experience that I wanted. After all, I didn’t fly for 15 hours just to sit on Waikiki Beach and watch the surfers. I would say the expense is the biggest downside of solo travel in Hawaii. Based on my experience, I recommend budgeting for more than you expect. 

Psst: Check out my post on how to visit Hawaii on a budget for tips.

Hostels in Hawaii Are Great for Meeting People…But That’s About it

Hostels were one of the biggest disappointment for me in terms of solo travel in Hawaii, and not because I have anything against hostels. When I’m backpacking around and want to meet people, hostels is one of the first places I go. Sure sharing bathrooms with strangers can be awkward and you’ll probably end up sharing a dorm with some inconsiderate jerk who flips the lights on at 4am to pack but, they are also awesome for meeting people and usually are affordable and often can be pretty nice as well.

Not so much in Hawaii.

I was discouraged from the get-go when I read the less than stellar reviews of the hostels in Waikiki. I finally settled on Waikiki Beachside hostel as it seemed to be my best bet. While the location was awesome (just a block from the beach and a bus stop) the hostel itself was not as great as I hoped. Dorms were hot and stuffy and really, really loud at night (from the street, not from the hostel) so I barely slept at all during my stay and while I’m sure part of it was jet lag, part of it was just because I was really uncomfortable. It also wasn’t the cleanest and the staff weren’t exactly the warm and welcoming type. Maybe I’m spoiled from boutique hostels in Europe and friendly staff in Asia, but as far as my hostel experiences go, this definitely wasn’t a great one.

What I can say is that I did manage to meet some pretty cool people who I really enjoyed hanging out with. Since Hawaii is such a pricey destination, it seemed that most solo travellers picked this hostel as well which was great for making friends.

That being said, the hostel sleeping situation was bad enough that, when I returned to Hawaii in October for a couple of days before heading back to Canada, I splurged on a private room at the S urf Jack Hotel . While it was clean, comfortable, and perfect for sleeping I didn’t meet anyone. The crowd here was mostly couples which meant that while I slept amazingly well at night, things did get a bit lonely during the day.

The Locals are Really Friendly

The good thing about solo travel in Hawaii is that I found the locals to be really friendly. As in they kindly took a couple minutes out of their day to chat to lonely little me when I was desperate for conversation. Granted I was also normally buying something from their shop (Waikiki’s adorable shops did not help with staying on budget, but they did help me get some Christmas shopping done early!), but it still made a difference. In fact, I found it kind of funny that Hawaii is technically the USA because the friendliness factor didn’t really reflect that at all. It kind of felt more like being at home in Canada. 

Aside from just having someone to have a quick chat with, the locals were pretty good with recommendations as well. A young woman at a shop told me where to get delicious (and cheap) poke bowls. A middle aged lady at one of the ABC convenient stores happily told me where to go to catch the bus (after the girl at the hostel told me ‘down by the beach’) and the bus driver on the way to Hanauma Bay told me everything that I wanted to know about anything in Hawaii. She was a total sweetheart.

So, if you are travelling solo in Hawaii don’t be shy to strike up a conversation whether it be the bus driver, shop attendant, or cute surfer boy on the beach… the one with neon beach shorts, shiny aviators, shaggy dark hair covered by a black ball cap and a very tanned six pack. If you see him  stay away him he’s mine  say hi.

Hawaii Feels Very Safe for Solo Travellers

My favourite part of solo travel in Hawaii is how safe I felt. In fairness, I didn’t go out to any bars or clubs (jet lag and lack of sleep does not make for a party girl) but from walking around Waikiki alone during the day and evenings I never had an issue. No cat calls or snide comments, nothing. I’m sure part of that had to do with the fact that I was also in busy tourist areas but it felt pretty good to feel safe wandering around as a young woman alone.

So, Do I recommend Solo Travel in Hawaii?

I absolutely do. Despite a couple of the above frustrations, I did have a great time and would definitely go back. I think the key thing to keep in mind when it comes to solo travel in Hawaii is to have a bigger budget so you won’t be limited by the lack of transit around the island. Or, if like me, you end up wanting to splurge on a hotel room instead of staying in a crappy hostel dorm. It’s definitely worth spending the extra money to ensure that you get the Hawaii experience that you want.

Ready to Book Your Trip?

Don’t forget travel insurance!

Please do not travel without travel insurance! I’ve had to use it multiple times throughout my travels and it has saved me thousands of dollars. You can learn more about travel insurance  here . If you are looking for a provider I love and recommend  SafetyWing . For Canadian readers, take a look at  SoNomad.

Book your accommodation

I love and recommend  booking.com  for accommodation. They have a range of hostels, guesthouses, hotels, and resorts. Plus, the platform has a great loyalty program that means the more you book, the more you can save. 

Book your tours

My go-to tour provider that I love to recommend is  GetYourGuide . They have options all over the world and partner with local companies for everything from day trips to food experiences and even airport transfers. 

Get connected

If you want to have data while travelling for online maps or any other needs, an esim is one of the easiest solutions. I’m a big fan of Airalo and have used their sim cards around the world from Brazil to Uzbekistan, Greece to the USA. It’s really easy- you download the app, pick what country you want an esim for, and after you purchase it follow the installation instructions. You can use promo code HANNAH3326 to save $3USD on your next esim purchase. 

Not sure what to pack?

I have destination-specific guides for some countries but you can also check my  travel essentials  and  camera gear  if you are looking for some ideas. 

Looking for a travel buddy?

Check out my group trips!

[…] you read my article on solo travel in Hawaii, you’ll remember that I disliked the hostel I stayed in so much that I spent my last 2 nights in […]

[…] to get around is to rent a car. However, I know this isn’t always an option, especially for those travelling solo to Hawaii like I did. Don’t worry though, you won’t be stuck. There are ways to get around both Honolulu […]

HI, Hannah. I enjoyed your articles on traveling solo to Hawaii. I’m finally traveling to Waikiki in a few weeks. For my budget I decided on skipping the car rental. Honolulu gives the appearance of being able to walk (or bike, bus, tour, etc) to most of the areas I’m interested in seeing. This is a planned “lazy girl vacation”. So, walking is about the hardest activity I’m planning!! I know I’ll enjoy exploring on my own.

Thank you again for all the tips.

Totally fair! There are some great island tours- that’s what I did 🙂 Enjoy!

What’s the name of the restaurant with great poke? 😋

The one on the North Shore that I have a photo of is Aji Limo Truck, its on the sign 🙂

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Planning a Solo Trip to Hawaii? Read the Do’s and Don’ts

Solo travel is an adventurous experience that can be uplifting, inspiring and rewarding. When you go to new places by yourself, it is very different from traveling with a friend or family.

You strike up conversations with people when you are alone that you or they might not initiate if you are part of a group.

You might be extended invitations to join other solo travelers on tours or excursions, which can lead to new friendships. Also, you are free to explore your destination whenever and however you please, without having to worry about what everyone else wants.

These are some of the reasons solo travelers embrace this style of travel that has grown in popularity over recent years.

On the other hand, solo travel can be lonely at times and even scary, especially the first time you try it. There could be moments you wish you had some companionship to have someone to take to, take your photos or share costs with. But for the most part, solo travel is great for the soul.

Hawaii is a great place for solo travelers. If you plan on traveling to Hawaii alone, not only is it possible, but it is also quite easy and safe.

Is Hawaii a good place to travel alone?

In general, Hawaii is a safe place with a low crime rate. Nowhere is free of crime and you could hear of petty theft or minor incidents late at night after people have been partying, for example.

As with any place you visit, you need to have common sense and care during the day and at night. More on that later.

Socializing in Hawaii

Just because you are traveling to Hawaii alone doesn’t mean you have to be alone for the whole trip.

Although it might involve stepping out of your comfort zone, you can make new friends in Hawaii and have someone to hang out with and go exploring together.

 If you are staying at an all-inclusive resort, there are always lots of entertainment and activities going on, so it’s a great way to mingle with people in a safe and comfortable environment.

Then you can maybe go on some trips and tours together.

Hawaii is naturally a social and friendly place to be and you will find the locals are very warm and welcoming. Don’t be surprised if you are invited to an authentic luau or social event if you are a single girl or guy on vacation in Hawaii.

These are the travel moments that solo travelers live for and what a great opportunity to see some local culture that you might have missed if you have your whole family or a group of friends along on the trip. 

Where should I go alone in Hawaii?

Maui is great for solo travelers who want to stay active with activities like hiking, water sports and enjoying the great outdoors. The gorgeous island of Oahu suits travelers who like to party or have some nightlife options.

Kauai is for the thrill-seekers who love adventures like helicopter rides, snorkeling, hiking, kayaking and boating. If you just want to chill out in a secluded environment, go to Molokini, where you can enjoy a vacation in peace and quiet.

 With a diverse group of islands, so there is something for everyone planning on traveling to Hawaii alone.

There isn’t really an area of Hawaii that is considered dangerous. Maui has the highest rate of crime but is still relatively low compared to many other places.

So you can feel confident in the cities, towns and rural areas of Hawaii, even at nighttime. Of course, you should follow the safety precautions that you would at home or any other place you were visiting.

Is it safe to hike in Hawaii alone?

If possible, it is better to go hiking with someone else in Hawaii or anywhere else in the world that you might be exploring.

Even if you are super fit and only hiking an easy trail, you still have the chance to injure yourself, get robbed, get lost or encounter a wild animal that could attack if it felt threatened.

If any of these things happen when you are alone, there is nobody to help you and the situation would be more stressful and/or dangerous.

The weather in Hawaii can be dramatic with it being very hot one moment and possible tropical storms blowing in very quickly during certain seasons.

In the case of hiking, it is better to find someone to hang out with for the hike, hire a local guide or join a group or tour.

Before your trip, join some online travel groups and maybe connect with someone who is going to be in Hawaii at the same time to try to find a hiking buddy.

There are active hiking groups in Honolulu. Here is the list in order of size, starting with the biggest one with nearly 3,500 members to the smallest that has over 200 members (which is still an impressive number.) They are all free to join.

 You can probably do some research and find similar hiking groups on the smaller Hawaiian Islands. 

• Hiking Oahu Trailblazers (H.O.T.)
• Sunday Day Hikes – Honolulu
• Oahu Hikers & Adventurers
• Hiking With Aloha
• Oahu Bike Explorers
• Oahu Singles (activity and adventure seekers)
• 50 Something Hiking
• The Hawai'i Hiking Group

How much does a solo trip to Hawaii cost?

The approximate cost of a week-long trip to sunny Hawaii is $2,023 for a solo traveler. You can expect to pay about $100 to $400 per night for a hotel or resort room if you are traveling to Hawaii alone.

As with any place, you can juggle your budget. All-inclusive resorts are always great deals and you have an accurate idea of how much you will spend during your vacation before the plane takes off.

Many solo travelers like to stay in the cheapest accommodation most of the time since they don’t spend too much time in their room and maybe splurge on a more fancy room for 1-2 nights at the end of the vacation.

Don’t treat yourself to a fancy hotel at the beginning of your vacation. The move to the cheaper place will feel disappointing.

It is better to have something to look forward to and at the end of your trip, you are more likely to feel happy to stay in your room since you will have already seen the main sights and maybe spent most of your money too.

When should you not go to Hawaii?

As a solo traveler, you will probably want to be out exploring and experiencing all Hawaii has to offer as much as possible. So like every holidaymaker, you will be hoping for nice weather.

Therefore you probably should avoid hurricane season, which is from July through November. Although Hawaii doesn’t get a lot of hurricanes, it is more likely during those months. Being cooped up in your budget room for days on end as a solo traveler isn’t fun.

Hawaii sees the most rainfall from November through March. The hottest months which appeal to sun-seekers are from June through October. For some, they love the heat, while others prefer a slightly cooler time of year.

With a swimming pool, the ocean and the air-con to cool off, you should be able to deal with even the hottest tropical days.

The Do's Of Solo Travel

Keep your bag and belongings secure

Always carry your bag over your shoulder or on your back so it’s not easily snatched. Keep your passport and other valuables in the safe at your hotel rather than carrying them with you.

Carry a copy of your passport if you think you might need it. Always keep a copy on your phone too. If your passport is lost or stolen, it will be faster to get a replacement if you have a copy of it.

Be aware of local laws and rules, especially regarding culture and religion

Research local laws, rules, and etiquette before going to a new country. You should always show respect, especially at religious sites and government offices.

 If you are penalized for breaking a rule or law, say sorry, be accepting and don’t argue. Saying you didn’t know because you are a tourist isn’t an excuse. 

Put emergency phone numbers into your phone

Add the local emergency number to your Smartphone just in case you need it. Also, put in the tourist police number and your accommodation number. Carry your accommodation business card in case you get lost. 

Use apps for taxis

Taxi apps are safer because the company can see exactly where you are with GSP or interactive maps. In the case of any incident, the company will know which driver you were with. 

Dress appropriately

Always dress on the conservative side when traveling, especially when visiting religious and culturally-important sites and official government locations, including embassies, airports and immigration offices. 

The Don'ts of Solo Travel

Post on social media where you are going next

If you post where you are going tomorrow, you can become a target. Posting your epic travel pics is a fun part of traveling, but saving them for a few days later can be a wise idea. 

Wear expensive-looking jewelry and accessories 

If you are wearing designer clothing, luxury jewelry and fashion accessories, you may get unwanted attention, so it’s better to go minimalistic, especially when out on day tours and sightseeing.

Women can wear a fake wedding ring.

Walk around at night in quiet areas

Stay safe by only walking in busy public areas that are well-lit at night. Avoid dark streets and quiet neighborhoods and get transportation back to your hotel rather than walk. 

Drink too much

When you are alone, don’t drink too much. If you make friends on the road, make a deal you will stay together if you are drinking. 

Carry large amounts of cash

Always carry only what you need and keep some money at your hotel in the safe. Use your bank card to withdraw cash as you need it.

It does take a little courage to travel solo for the first time. But once you try it, you will discover a wonderful new world. Locals will strike up conversations with a solo traveler when they might not do for a family of four.

Other travelers are also very welcoming, and you can find yourself with a collection of new friends from all over the globe by the end of your trip. 

Traveling solo is an adventure that opens up conversations, opportunities, and experiences that you probably wouldn’t have if you were on the road with someone else and Hawaii is a great place to discover all of that.

Just remember it is essential always to stay safe. Common sense, street-smart skills and an awareness of your surroundings at all time is important if you are traveling to Hawaii alone.

Whether it’s your first trip traveling alone or you are an old hat at solo travel, always remember to stay safe. If in doubt, follow your instincts and remember the saying, better safe than sorry! It is a very good motto for free-spirited solo travelers like you!

Visit the Trip Support  website to find out more about Trip Support flights, or call our travel experts on #1-855-606-0606 for more information. They are always ready to help our clients plan their next epic vacation.

The face of travel is changing rapidly. We are proudly leading the industry with an innovative and flexible Book Now, Pay Later option.

You can buy the air ticket and vacation packages by putting down a small deposit to secure the services and pay the balance in installments. Flexibility and savings are just some of the benefits of flying with Trip Support.

We don’t check credit scores so this payment Book Now, Pay Later method is available to everyone. You can book now and pay later in installments. There is no credit check with this fantastic pay later option.

You can book now and pay later and go to Hawaii with Trip Support. Get your pay later flight to Hawaii by Trip Support today!

The face of travel is changing rapidly. We are proudly leading the industry with an innovative and flexible  Book Now, Pay Later Flights  option. You can buy the air ticket and vacation packages by putting down a small deposit to secure the services and pay the balance in installments.

Flexibility and savings are just some of the benefits of flying with Trip Support.

We have cheap flights to Rye in Colorado. Book your vacation to Rye and many other wonderful places and pay later with  Trip Support . Go ahead and get your pay later flight with Trip Support today!

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Solo Trip to Hawaii | 2024 Hawaii Travel Guide for Solo Travelers

Hawaii is an absolutely gorgeous location to travel to that should be on every solo traveler’s bucket list! It draws people looking for life-changing trips, and there is so much to do and see here, from enjoying the beautiful ocean with a surf lesson or snorkeling and exploring its underwater world, to exploring the great outdoors on land in its stunning national parks. The islands are not only stunning but also very important historically and culturally.

Hawaii is a very safe place to travel alone, and although there is hardly any crime, you should still always be cautious when on a solo trip. You are bound to meet tons of new people since the locals are known for being kind and welcoming.

Are you ready to get out of your comfort zone and take a trip on your own? Read on for our complete guide to traveling to Hawaii solo!

Hawaii Entry Requirements for Canadians 

One of the following documents must be presented by Canadian citizens flying to Hawaii:

• a passport that must be valid for their entire stay
• a current NEXUS card that can be utilized at self-serve kiosks at specific airports

COVID-19 Requirements for Hawaii

To enter the United States, Canadians who qualify for the COVID-19 vaccine must be vaccinated.

There is no longer a requirement to present recovery from COVID-19 documentation or negative pre-departure COVID-19 test results.

Best Time to Visit Hawaii Solo

It is hard to pass up visiting Hawaii during this time of year! The summer season starts in May and goes until October. The hottest months have weather that is perfect for the beach, with highs around 28-30°C and lows of only around 20°C.

Cold Season

The winter months in Hawaii are from November to April. The rainy season that occurs from December to March doesn’t stop visitors looking for a winter getaway – it’s actually the peak travel season! During the winter season you’ll experience temperatures around 23-24°C. Average precipitation is high, especially in December. To avoid the rain, vacation on the west and south coasts, which tend to be drier. But on the Hawaiian Islands, rain showers are very brief and don’t last days or even hours, so it’s still a wonderful time to visit Hawaii!

Best Time to Visit Hawaii – Our Recommendation

We think a great time to visit Hawaii is between September and November, or between April and June!

During these times, the weather is pleasant, and travelers can get great deals on airfare and accommodation. It’s best to get your vacation in early, before school breaks start, especially if you’re hoping for fewer people around the popular sites!

Getting Around in Hawaii

Hawaii car rentals.

Public Transportation is truly lacking on the Hawaiian islands and you don’t want to rely on it to get around. The best way to get to where you want to go on a solo trip to Hawaii is to rent a car.

Tier One Tip: reserve your rental car sooner rather than later to make sure you get a decent price, as rental cars can get very pricey in Hawaii.

Island Hopping in Hawaii

You can travel between the islands of Hawaii by using one of three airlines: Mokulele, Hawaiian, or Southwest.

Hawaiian Airlines operates interisland flights to:

• Honolulu International Airport on Oahu.
• Kahului Airport on Maui.
• Lihue Airport on Kauai.
• Kona and Hilo airports on the Big Island.

How Long To Stay in Hawaii on a Solo Trip

On one of the larger Hawaiian islands, you might easily stay two or three weeks in Hawaii as a solo traveler and never get bored. You may, however, have to give up some of your plans on your first island if you decide to add a second or multiple islands.

Our advice: take your time researching and choosing the best Hawaiian Island that will fit your travel needs best. Since you’re traveling solo, what you do is up to nobody else but YOU!

Or, if you’d like to talk to someone who had been to Hawaii before and can advise you on which island(s) are best for you as a solo traveler, contact your Tier One Travel Specialist .

Things To Do in Hawaii as a Solo Traveler

Here are some of the best destinations over six of Hawaii’s most popular islands for solo travelers.

Hawaii: The Big Island

The Big Island of Hawaii is a whopping 4,000 square miles, and still growing!

This is the youngest of all of the Hawaiian Islands, and larger than the other seven major Hawaiian Islands put together. And fortunately, with that larger size comes great geographical diversity. 

Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

You can choose to explore the summit of an active volcano at the UNESCO Heritage Site, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Visit remnants of old fishing villages, listen to native birds sing in the rain forests, or stroll the shoreline of black sand beaches and even see lava falling into the ocean. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, contains two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Maunaloa and Kilauea. This is an incredible spot to explore while traveling solo if you want to experience the best of Hawaiian nature.

Stargazing on the Big Island

One of the best activities to do on the Big Island is stargazing. Did you know that you can see most of the stars visible from the earth from the Big Island of Hawaii? Hawaii’s Big Island offers some of the most incredible stargazing experiences on the planet; in fact, Mauna Kea is home to the world’s biggest research observatory. Join a knowledgeable guide for a narrated tour of our beautiful solar system. This is an incredible activity to do solo since you’ll be able to stay and stare at the stars for as long as you want.

Helicopter Tours

The Big Island of Hawaii has a very diverse climate, with waterfalls thousands of feet high, green rainforests, snow-capped mountains, and Kilauea, the world’s most active volcano,  explore the Waipi‘o Valley all on an incredible helicopter tour to see Hawaii from a different point of view. This is a great option when you’re traveling alone, this is also a great way to meet other travelers since you are usually with other people on these tours.

Go For A Drive

The Hāmākua Heritage Corridor scenic drive is known for its miles of water-carved gulches, lush green valleys, massive cascading waterfalls, and gorgeous seaside views. Having the freedom to drive wherever you want on the island is a big perk to solo travel in Hawaii.

Swim with Manta Rays

One of the most magical experiences you can have on Hawaii Island is swimming with the manta rays, which are elegant and harmless sea creatures with wingspans of up to 16 feet! Hop on a snorkeling tour where you’re likely to see a lot more wildlife than just Manta Rays. This is another great way to meet other travelers, while on a snorkelling tour.

Oahu is full of tropical aromas and perfect temperatures, the turquoise ocean, schools of colorful fish, green rainforest, lush scenery, and nearly endless things to do. Solo travelers will always feel welcome in Oahu!

Honolulu, The Capital City

You can find everything in Hawaii’s capital city, from great dining to world-class shopping. There is so much to see and do in this incredible city, from relaxing on the famous Waikīkī Beach, exploring Iolani Palace, wandering museums, and much more. Which makes it a perfect place for solo travelers to spend a day!

Surfing in Oahu

With endless golden beaches, inviting blue waves and lovely weather, you can play in the water all year round on Oahu.

If you’ve always dreamed of hanging ten on a longboard, Waikiki Beach is the perfect place to take your first surfing lesson (another great way to meet other travelers)! The world’s best and boldest surfers can be seen performing in Waimea Bay on the North Shore of Oahu which is renowned for its 30-foot waves in the winter. Summertime brings about a significant calming of the water, making it a wonderful place to go swimming, snorkeling, and diving.

Snorkeling in Oahu

Beyond surfing, you can explore the clear blue ocean along 112 miles of coastline, making snorkeling a top activity on Oahu.

 For some of Oahu’s best snorkeling beaches, we recommend: 

• Hanauma Bay, for its high fish population
• Kuilima Cove, for its perfect beginner snorkeling conditions
• Kahe Point, for its clear deep water
• Kaena Point State Park, for its quiet, beautiful sand beach further away from the city
• Sharks Cove, for its wonderful blue water and tropical fish. 

Tier One Tip:  If you choose to snorkel solo, make sure to take every precaution to stay safe. Don’t snorkel if the water is rough or if there aren’t many people around. Go on a group snorkeling tour if you aren’t confident about going on your own.

Whale Watching

This is a must for solo travelers who love wildlife. While on a sunset cruise or sailing excursion, you might spot a humpback breach during whale-watching season (December through May).

These gentle giants come to the warm Hawaiian waters every year to breed and give birth to new calves, making Oahu a perfect place to experience these beautiful creatures. You can also spot whales from Oahu’s many beaches and from southeastern Oahu spots like the scenic Makapuu Lighthouse, Hanauma Bay, and Diamond Head.  

See Oahu from a different point of view! If you’ve always wanted to feel the rush of skydiving, there’s no better place to do it than on Oahu’s North Shore. Fly above the clouds and fall through the Hawaiian skies at 120mph, taking in panoramic views of Oahu’s green mountains and deep blue waters that few have ever seen. Skydiving is definitely an experience you will always remember; perfect for the truly adventurous solo traveler!

Oahu Helicopter Tours

Oahu’s pleasant, year-round weather is perfect for helicopter tours. Experience breathtaking sights and stunning vistas as you fly around the islands, soaring over the turquoise waters, you’ll venture around Diamond Head’s crater, fly past white sand beaches, and glimpse landmarks only visible by air such as Sacred Falls. 

Oahu Hiking 

Oahu’s diverse tropical terrain, unmatched ocean views, and wide range of activities will easily bring out your adventurous side! Don’t forget to be well prepared while going hiking especially when you’re by yourself. Bring enough water and snacks, wear proper shoes, etc.

Here are some of the most popular treks on the island:  

Diamond Head 

Hike to the top of the iconic volcanic crater Leahi (Diamond Head)/the Diamond Head State Monument for a panoramic view of Waikiki. The views you’ll take in from the top viewing platform are not only beautiful but are also recorded as the longest land views you’ll see in the world! 

Waimea Falls Park

Waimea Falls Park is one of the great Oahu hikes/strolls for lovers of the outdoors! Walk along a flat road that is surrounded by botanical gardens, which will keep you entertained until you reach the stunning 50 ft, Waimea Falls. 

The Manoa Falls Trail

This Oahu hiking trail is located above Waikiki in the Manoa Valley mountainside.  The Manoa Falls Trail is a somewhat easy but still adventurous hike through a lush bamboo and guava tree forest, so it’s perfect for those traveling solo. The prize at the end of this hour-long hike is a towering 150 ft waterfall. Set your expectations high for this hike! 

Kaniakapupu Ruins 

Kaniakapupu Ruins, Located in the Nu’uanu Valley off the Pali Hwy are the remains of King Kamehameha III’s summer home, originally built in 1847. Today you can take a short stroll through a bamboo forest and visit the Kaniakapupu Ruins, one of the oldest standing structures on Oahu!

Oahu Golfing

Play golf well into the evening on a long Hawaiian summer day. What better place to tee off than surrounded by breathtaking mountain ranges and the Pacific Ocean? Don’t let the crashing waves distract you; these gorgeous courses are fun yet challenging and a great solo activity. Plus, you’re sure to make likeminded friends while playing a round!

Here are some Oahu golf courses that we recommend:

Turtle Bay Golf Club

On the North Shore is the Turtle Bay Golf Club. The Palmer Course is consistently regarded as the best course on Oahu and among the very best on all the islands! This course at Turtle Bay is an absolute must-play during your visit to the area.

Royal Hawaiian Golf Club

On the Windward Coast is the Royal Hawaiian Golf Club. Nestled between the majestic Mount Olomana and Ko’olau Mountains, this course is an awe-inspiring experience with Oahu’s most stunning views. 

Hawai‘i Prince Golf Club

The Leeward Coast is home to the Hawai‘i Prince Golf Club. This Golf Club offers 27 dramatic holes, the only golf course of its kind in Hawaii. 

Ko Olina Golf Club

Also on the Leeward coast is the Ko Olina Golf Club, listed as one of Golf Digest’s “Top 75 Resort Courses in the U.S.” It is a challenging 18-hole course, but there are also golf lessons and daily clinics available with top PGA professionals! 

Polynesian Cultural Center

Solo travelers who love learning about new cultures will love spending the day exploring the rich heritage of the Pacific Islands at the Polynesian Cultural Center. Wander through tropical scenes and explore authentic villages and mingle with locals that are part of six Pacific cultures. Enjoy the adventure of traditional hands-on activities, play ancient games, dance, learn how to fish without a net, and sample poi. Dine like royalty at an authentic Polynesian luau and top it off with the most fabulous evening show on the islands. This is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture!

Pearl Harbor

At Pearl Harbor, hear first-hand stories from survivors describing the chaotic scene on Battleship Row. Walk through an airplane hangar that still bears the scars from that fateful morning. Peer into the shallow harbor where the USS Arizona Memorial is located where you can still see the sunken structure. Visiting Pearl Harbor is an experience that will be etched into your soul forever and will offer you a new perspective on World War II. Solo travelers who love history should definitely put this on their Hawaii bucket list!

Immerse yourself for a part or more of the day in five historic sites that comprise Pearl Harbor today: the WWII Valor in the Pacific, Battleship Missouri Memorial, USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park, USS Oklahoma Memorial and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. 

Maui is the second-largest Hawaiian island and it, too is full of exciting contrasts— think luxury resorts set against white-sand beaches, and charming small towns tucked against country roads that wind along the coast. Solo travelers will love a visit to Maui!

Maui Travel Update: Due to the wildfires that started on August 8, 2023, all unnecessary travel to West Maui (including Lahaina, Napili, Kaanapali, and Kapalua) is highly advised against until October 17, 2023. The other Hawaiian Islands, such as Kauai, Oahu, Lanai, and Hawai’i Island, as well as other parts of Maui (such as Kahului, Wailuku, Kihei, Wailea, Makena, and Hana), are still open. We ask all visitors to the islands to exercise extra caution and respect as the community recovers from this tragedy. Find the official travel advisory here .

Visit The Haleakalā National Park

The remote and sacred Haleakalā National Park offers a taste of history and adventure. The finest place to view what may be the most breathtaking sunrise on earth is at the Haleakalā Visitor Center. Witness the sun rise from beneath a vast sea of clouds. Haleakalā’s sunsets and the starry skies visible at night are possibly equally magnificent! This is perfect for solo travelers willing to make the journey to enjoy a moment of tranquility while enjoying the gorgeous views.

Explore Lahaina

The journey is worthwhile for this colorful and beautiful village. The city’s main activities include visiting various boutiques and gift shops. There are also fashion stores with famous names like Coach and Michael Kors. There are also markets on the weekends at Lahaina Harbour under the large banyan tree. This is a great spot for solo travelers who love to shop!

The Road to Hana

The greatest attraction on Maui without a doubt is the picturesque Road to Hana. The main draw of traveling the Hana Highway on Maui is the journey itself, not the final destination. There aren’t many words that can explain the breathtaking splendor of this drive, with its cliffs covered in lush, green valleys teeming with waterfalls. This drive can be challenging and sometimes stressful! There are many options available to get someone to do the driving for you if you don’t want to do the drive alone.

Explore West Maui

West Maui offers equal parts adventure and relaxation with its abundant sunshine, shopping, world-class golf, and scenic drives along the West Maui mountains. There’s so much to do in this area for solo travelers, from snorkeling in colorful reefs or teeing off on a championship green to exploring the shops and galleries of a historic whaling town or enjoying a five-star feast at one of West Maui’s stellar restaurants.

Tour East Maui

Powerful surf, lush rainforest, and waterfalls that pour straight onto the road are just some of the highlights you can see while in East Maui. Streams rush down the forested side of Haleakalā into glistening pools, waves wash up onto jet-black volcanic beaches, and vines dangle over the winding highway. Maui’s rural North Shore and East Side are full of gorgeous, natural landscapes that you will want to photograph around each and every bend. Outdoorsy solo travelers will love exploring east Maui. 

Kauai is Hawaii’s fourth largest island that is nicknamed the “Garden Island” for good reason! This is the oldest and northernmost island in the Hawaiian chain that is covered in many beautiful landscape elements such as emerald valleys, mountain spires and jagged cliffs, tropical rainforests, and flowing waterfalls. Although Kauai’s hiking is beautiful, as a solo traveler you might want to avoid it if you don’t want to encounter honeymooners or couples. But if you’re okay with running into some couples, this could be a great destination for adventurous solo travelers.

Visit Waimea Canyon

Waimea Canyon, on Kauai’s West Side, is described as “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” Although it is not as big or as old as the actual Grand Canyon, you won’t encounter anything like this geological wonder elsewhere in Hawaii. The Waimea Canyon Lookout provides panoramic views of wild foliage, tropical cliffs, green-and-pink scenery, captivating waterfalls, and striking rainbows. One of the most popular things to do at the canyon is to explore its hiking trails! Experience the natural splendor of Kauai’s Waimea Canyon on a guided tour, learn about the fascinating geologic history of the canyon and stop at several vista points along the way for great photos. 

Visit the historic island town of Hanapepe and see highlights of the southern coast, including the Koloa Sugar Mill, Spouting Horn blowhole, and the luxurious beach resorts of Poipu. You can also shop at the westernmost bookstore in the USA at the Talk Story Bookstore.

See Kokee State Park

Located North of Waimea Canyon on Kauai’s West Side is Kokee State Park. This state park is covered in forest, wildflowers, and hiking trails, making it an excellent spot to see native plants and colorful Hawaiian forest birds like the apapane, iwi and moa. The park also offers some of the state’s finest hiking trails. Some trails lead to views of Waimea Canyon, others wind through wet forests with sweeping views of valleys opening to the North Shore.

Explore The Napali Coast

Spanning 17 miles along Kauai’s North Shore, the Napali Coast is a sacred place known for its extraordinary natural beauty. Emerald cliffs with sharp ridges tower above the Pacific Ocean, exposing beautiful beaches and waterfalls that fall to the valley floor. The rugged terrain appears the same as it did centuries ago when Hawaiian settlements thrived in the deep, narrow valleys.

Tier One Tip: The Na Pali Coast is only accessible from May through September because of high winter surf and weather conditions.

There are many ways to experience the Napali Coast as a solo traveler – let’s explore some of them!

Hiking is a must along the Napali Coast. There are numerous trails to explore, but the most famous hike on Kauai is the challenging 11-mile Kalalau trail along the Napali Coast. Beginning at the end of the road at Kee Beach, most people hike in and stay at least one night before returning. Others limit their hike to the first two miles, which leads to Hanakapiai Beach. Whichever you choose, you’ll be treated to amazing views of Kauai’s North Shore.

Take a Flying Tour Over Kauai

All of these options are amazing, but aerial tours might be the best way to grasp the magnitude of the Napali Coast. Soar over Kauai on an aerial adventure with a local helicopter company. You’ll get a front-row seat to scenic areas that are largely inaccessible by land or water, such as the iconic Manawaiopuna Falls, which was featured in Jurassic Park.

Daniel K. Inouye Kilauea Point Lighthouse

Perched at the northernmost tip of Kauai, the 52-foot Daniel K. Inouye Kilauea Point Lighthouse was built in 1913 as a beacon for traveling ships. Although its light was turned off in the 1970s, it still serves as one of the island’s most visited attractions.  The lighthouse is located within the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, a sanctuary for seabirds. This picturesque peninsula is a must-see on your visit to the Napali Coast!

Visit the Kilohana Estate

Solo travelers interested in history should visit Kilohana, a restored plantation estate that provides a glimpse of life in the 1930s. The site of a Tudor mansion, the estate was home to one of the island’s most famous families. Manicured green lawns surround the estate, which now features a restaurant and several unique shops like the Koloa Rum Company. Once the center of a 27,000-acre sugar plantation and the hub of Kauai business, cultural and social life, the 35-acre estate now features tropical gardens and an old plantation village. The classic Kauai Plantation Railway gives you a tour of Kilohana’s working farm. 

Water Activities

Solo travelers who want to get into the water will love these watersports. They’re also great for going on tours and meeting some new people and potentially, other solo travelers!

Experience the wild beauty of Kauai’s breathtaking Napali Coast on a sailing and snorkeling cruise where you can see an unbelievable perspective of soaring emerald sea cliffs, sparkling waterfalls, and remote beaches, all from the deck of a lavish catamaran! 

Kauai Snorkeling

On the North Shore, fantastic shoreline snorkeling beaches include the reefs off of Kee Beach and Haena Beach Park. Anini Beach offers a lagoon great for beginning snorkelers. Makua, or “Tunnels” Beach in Haena also has a wide reef area that’s a great one to experience. Be sure to check ocean conditions and currents prior to going out, especially during the big north shore swells of the winter.

On the East Side, Lydgate Beach Park offers a safe snorkeling lagoon which is great for solo snorkelers who are just starting out.

On the South Shore, Poipu Beach State Park offers amazing, protected areas for snorkelers.

Scuba Diving

Kauai also offers a variety of scuba sites for beginners and experienced divers. Dive tours offer plenty of tropical fish, reef creatures, dolphins, and honu (Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles) to discover. Experienced divers will generally find more thrilling spots on the east and west shores, including cave exploration and lava tubes.

Whether you are certified in diving or not you will be able to have an amazing underwater experience.

Those new to scuba should start on the north or south shores (Hanalei, Kee Beach, or Poipu Beach). 

Kauai whale-watching tours are a must-do in Hawaii! From December to May, you are likely to catch a glimpse of a majestic kohola, or humpback whale, off Kauai’s shorelines. 

You can also spot whales from Kauai’s many beautiful beaches, including Poipu Beach on the South Shore, and from scenic spots like Kilauea Lighthouse and the Napali Coast’s Kalalau Trail on the North Shore. On the East Side, the Kapaa Overlook between Kapaa Town and Kealia Beach is another notable viewing spot. So, keep your eyes peeled, you never know when you will see these gentle giants

Kauai Paddle Boarding

Similar to surfing but using a longer, wider board, stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) has become an increasingly popular water activity over the past several years. On the island of Kauai, you’ll often find paddlers on the sparkling blue waters of Hanalei Bay, Poipu Beach or Kalapaki Beach. You can easily find rental places on the islands to hook you up with gear, and often-times lessons as well, if you’re new to the sport!

Kauai Kayaking

Kauai is home to the only passable rivers in Hawaii, so kayaking is an essential part of a unique Kauai getaway. You can relax and take in the scenery as you paddle down the Wailua River which passes through lush, jungle landscapes along with the island’s East Side. Other river routes include the Huleia River from Nawiliwili Harbor in Lihue, as well as the Hanalei River on the North Shore, the longest on the island.

Consider traveling to Lana’i to soak up the seclusion and quiet that Lāna’i offers, from five-star luxury resorts to off-road adventures. This lesser-known Hawaiian island has few paved roads, and plenty of opportunities for adventure for solo travelers.

Hunt for petroglyphs, ride horses or sip cocktails while watching for dolphins in Hulopo‘e Bay. You’ll need a four-wheel drive vehicle to explore the areas beyond Lāna‘i City – which is part of the fun! Solo travelers who want to treat themselves to a luxurious vacation will love Lanai.

Hulopo‘e Beach’s golden stretch of sand is one of Hawaii’s most beautiful beaches. Spend a day here, making use of the uncrowded picnic tables, barbeque grills, restrooms, and showers. The sheltered waters are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring tide pools. 

Hulopo‘e Bay is a protected marine reserve. You can even see Hawaiian Spinner dolphins and humpback whales here during the winter months! And Hulopo‘e Beach is just as beautiful beneath the water’s sparkling surface. Strap on a snorkel and you’ll have the chance to see parrotfish, pencil urchins, and honu (sea turtles)!

Solo travelers looking for a luxurious and secluded holiday will find that Lana’i is really the perfect destination.

Life is simple and inspiring on Moloka’i, a mere 38 miles long and 10 miles across at its widest point. This rural island is home to incredibly unique wonders — including the world’s tallest sea cliffs, and Hawaii’s longest continuous fringing reef! Visit and you’ll see how natural charm and potent history are inextricably linked on this secluded, beautiful little island. Solo travelers really looking to get away from it all will love the time they spend in Moloka’i.

Likewise, the beaches on Moloka‘i are beautiful and secluded. However, there are no lifeguards on duty on the island, so solo travelers should use caution when entering the water, especially during the winter months when the surf tends to be bigger.

From golfing to hiking, whale watching, visiting cultural centers and so much more, Moloka’i is full of opportunities and adventure and is more of an “undiscovered” Hawaiian island.

If you are looking to explore a quieter and more secluded island, Moloka’i might be perfect for you for your next solo trip!

This is only the start of all of the solo adventures available to you on the islands of Hawaii.

PLANNING ON A SOLO TRIP? We’ve got your back! When you’re ready to book your next getaway, contact one of our TierOne Travel agents. They have extensive knowledge of all current events in the travel industry and will be able to craft something incredible that is suited to your unique needs and will get you to your destination as stress-free as possible.

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A Solo Traveler’s Guide To Kauai: Where To Eat, Stay, And Play

* Omicron is spreading in Hawaii but the state has not made changes to its travel policies. Travelers are encouraged to respect local and national advisories .

In 2021, I spent more time on the road than I did at home. As a passionate adventurer , one of my greatest lessons over the past year has been a new appreciation for solo travel . Group trips, couples getaways, and family vacations are great, but there’s something empowering about taking your travels into your own hands. Especially as a woman . Exploring unknown places alone leaves the door wide open for you to create your own itinerary with the freedom to be spontaneous along the way. You learn to have fun by yourself, connect more intentionally to the world around you, and experience people and places in new ways.

Or at least, that’s what I’ve gained from it. And I’m absolutely hooked.

My most recent solo adventure was to Kauai, Hawaii’s wettest, greenest, and fourth-largest island. With 97 percent of the island covered by forests or mountain ranges, it’s a haven for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers. The endless stretches of beach surrounding the dense greenery make it a vision of tropical paradise — and a natural stand-in for Jurassic worlds , distant jungles, and far-off planets .

Traveling to Kauai solo, I was able to meet people I never would have connected with had I gone in a cloistered crew. I may or may not have left with new ink because I met a tattoo artist and owner of Tried and True Tattoo at dinner on my first night. I often changed plans on a whim, whether that meant chilling at the resort pool with a Mai Tai or hiking first thing in the morning. Whatever I wanted to do, I did it. By the end of my five days in Kauai, I felt more connected to myself, nature, and my spirituality than I had in a long time.

If you’re looking for a solo adventure of your own, Kauai is my #1 pick on the planet. It’s hospitable, safe, and full of beauty. Below, you’ll find my solo traveler’s guide to the island — but I’ll readily admit that I’ve only scratched the surface of what there is to see and do.

PART I — Where to Play

Explore waimea canyon.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Chloe Caldwell | Travel Writer (@chloeicaldwell)

First of all, you’re going to need a rental car in Kauai. Uber is scarce here, and as a solo traveler, it’s nice to have easy transportation access at any time of the day. I spontaneously decided to upgrade my rental to a convertible, and it was 100 percent worth it. (As a rule of thumb, never leave any valuables in your rental car.) One of the best parts of my trip was simply cruising through the jungle with the top down and checking out the views. This was especially enjoyable when I drove through Waimea Canyon State Park , a ten-mile long and 3,000 feet-deep canyon where cliffside views are abundant.

Waimea Canyon wasn’t originally on my itinerary, but a convincing DM from one of my Instagram followers persuaded me to change things up (again, the perks of solo travel!). I spent an afternoon driving through the state park, making stops along the way whenever something caught my eye or I noticed a line of cars parked on the side of the road. From miles of mountainous greenery to waterfalls and running creeks, the island’s vast natural beauty is on full 360-degree display throughout Waimea Canyon.

At the top of the state park, there are lookout platforms where you can take in the views from up above. However, if you find yourself in Kauai during winter, then you’ll realize how quickly the weather can turn on its head. By the time I made it to the peak, it was completely foggy and absolutely pouring (AKA, bring a rain jacket). Luckily, the sun made its way back from behind the clouds on my way back down. I made one last stop in the canyon where I was met with a breathtaking double rainbow and mountain view.

It was truly a magical moment that made the afternoon of driving and rain worth it.

Cacao Bliss & Mindful Snorkeling Tour

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kokoleka Collective (@kokoleka.collective)

I’ve been loving Airbnb Experiences lately. These are first-hand, one-of-a-kind activities hosted by local experts. I knew I wanted to do at least one badass experience during my stay in Kauai, so I signed up for the Cacao Bliss & Mindful Snorkeling Tour . My guide took me on a short morning hike down to a small secluded beach that’s typically only frequented by locals. He then led me in a meditation, served me a warm cup of ceremonial cacao elixir while sharing its various healing benefits, and joined me in the ocean for a swim. Unfortunately, the water was too rough for the snorkeling portion of the excursion, but it was certainly a morning to remember.

This mindfulness experience was the perfect way to start the day, as it encouraged me to get in touch with nature, practice gratitude, and open up to the endless beauty that surrounds me — cheesy, I know, but… it’s true !

Check Out Wailua Falls

There is no shortage of gorgeous waterfalls in Kauai. If you want to get up close and personal with one, head to Wailua Falls, a 173-foot fall on the Wailua River near Lihue. Not only is it incredible to see, but it’s also convenient. You can drive straight up to the main viewpoint to check out the scene and take photos. This spot is great if you’re on a time crunch but still want to fit in seeing the island’s scenery between meals or activities.

If you’re feeling adventurous and don’t mind getting a little wet, you can even hike down to the base of Wailua Falls. The trek down is a short distance, but it’s often muddy and therefore slippery so it’s a good idea to use caution and take your time walking down. As a safety precaution, avoid any swimming or water activities at the bottom of waterfalls. Keep a lookout for signage surrounding the falls and comply with all warnings against trespassing beyond the designated lookouts. As always, especially when traveling solo, it’s a good idea to text someone where you’re hiking and what time you’ll be done.

Chill on the Beach

I mean, duh . You obviously can’t spend time in Kauai without hitting the beach daily, even if that means you don’t venture from the sand at your resort. There are a plethora of public beaches on the island, and each one seems to have its own character and charm. If you’re on the North Shore of the island, a few notable beaches to check out are Hanalei Bay and Anini Beach. Both of these offer tranquil vibes and scenic ocean views with a jungle backdrop to match. Hanalei is more ideal for families and swimming, while Anini Beach is a great spot to chill out and enjoy a picnic by the water.

For days on the South Shore, check out Poipu Beach, one of Kauai’s most popular beaches. This is another good beach for taking a dip in the waves, as there are lifeguards, picnic tables, and showers nearby. There are also great spots to eat right by the main beach area so you can enjoy your lunch while you sunbathe.

Tour the Kauai Coffee Estate

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kauai Coffee Company (@kauaicoffeeco)

Have you ever wondered exactly how coffee is made? It’s more intricate than you might think, and the Kauai Coffee Estate gives you a first-hand look (and taste) of the entire process. With over 4 million coffee trees grown on 3,100 acres, Kauai Coffee Company is the largest coffee grower in the U.S.

The farm in Kalaheo offers personalized, guided walking tours where you’ll learn about how the farm’s coffee is grown, harvested, and roasted. You can also opt for a free self-guided tour and stroll through the grounds at your own leisure. After the coffee estate tour, you can chill out at the property’s visitor center for coffee taste-testing and panoramic views of the fields and ocean.

I spent an afternoon touring the Kauai Coffee Estate, and it was certainly the educational highlight of my trip.

PART II — Where to Eat

South shore restaurants & fast casual:.

You can find everything from beachside resort restaurants to hole-in-the-wall small businesses throughout Kauai. As you can imagine, seafood is one of the primary delicacies of the island. If you’re craving fresh sashimi and sushi, head to Sushi Bushido . Tucked in the far corner of the Coconut Marketplace , a charming shopping center full of gift shops and eateries, Sushi Bushido is a locally-owned sushi bar with both unique specialty rolls and traditional favorites.

Order the Lava Roll and Uni for a mouthwatering meal. As an LA sushi aficionado, I definitely vouch for this spot.

For a more casual bite to eat by the beach that doesn’t skimp on taste, head to Puka Dog . Located next to Poipu Beach, Puka Dog serves Hawaiian-style hot dogs (or veggie dogs) slathered in a mess of tangy sauce and flavors of your choosing. A traditional Hawaiian-style hotdog is made with a freshly-baked bun wrapped completely around the dog. It’s then doused with garlic lemon secret sauce, a tropical-fruit relish, and locally-made mustard.

It just might be the best wiener experience of your life.

For a nicer sit-down outing and lively environment, I recommend Duke’s . I ended up here two nights in a row because I enjoyed the entire dining experience, from the ambiance to the food and fruity cocktails. Between the rainforest-like decor (including a waterfall fountain in the middle of the dining area), the live music, laidback vibes, and good grub, it’s a must-visit restaurant. I ordered the fish tacos and fish ‘n’ chips, and both offered a large portion that did not disappoint. To drink, I ordered the Lava Flow, a blended concoction of pineapple, coconut, and light rum erupting with strawberry. It was the ultimate island drink to celebrate my time in Kauai. Sweet but definitely tasty.

North Shore Restaurants & Fast Casual:

I didn’t spend as much time on the North Shore, but I did get a taste of the local eats while I was there. If you want to do some shopping and taste the local fare, head to the center of Hanalei where you’ll find boutique shops, clothing stores, local bars, and eateries. Another must-visit spot for sushi lovers is Hanalei Dolphin’s Fish Market . Here, you’ll find specialties like teriyaki shrimp, sushi rolls and fresh sashimi, poke salad, ceviche, seafood chowder, organic salad mixes, and The Dolphin’s homemade salad dressings. It’s basically your one-stop-shop for all things fish.

There are sit-down dining and takeout options available. I got mine to go for lunch on the beach.

Another Hanalei hotspot is Tahiti Nui , a family-run and operated establishment that serves everything from specialty pizzas to coconut shrimp, baby back ribs, and macadamia-crusted chicken. It’s a great restaurant for a post-beach pick-me-up when you need to refuel from a long day in the sun. The menu also offers a selection of specialty cocktails and wine. Go for the Over the Rainbow Martini for a strong kick of Grey Goose Poire, passion fruit, lime, lemonade, and club soda.

PART III — Where to Stay

Kauai coast resort at the beachboy.

There really isn’t a bad place to stay on the island. You’re in freakin’ Kauai, after all! The North Shore is where you’ll find lush jungle views and a serene atmosphere due to its more frequent rainy weather and untouched natural environment. The South Shore is dryer and closer to the airport, and it’s also a more convenient access point to popular adventure spots like Waimea Canyon. The good news is that no matter what side of the island you stay on, it’s a quick drive to and from each shore.

I stayed in Kapa’a at the Kauai Coast Resort at the Beachboy , and it turned out to be the perfect location for me. It was nearly equidistant to both sides of the island, making the drive to every excursion a breeze. As for the resort itself, Kauai Coast Resort at the Beachboy made me feel right at home. The rooms themselves aren’t the most extravagant, but the apartment-style layout was comfortable and nice to come back to at the end of the day. The resort is right on the beach, so I spent every morning strolling in the sand watching the sunrise. There’s also a central pool area, a popular restaurant (make a reservation!), and hammocks spread out throughout the property for the mid-afternoon nap of your dreams. The resort is also across the street from the Coconut Marketplace mentioned above, so you’ll always have shopping and a bite to eat nearby.

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Solo room share.

On nearly all of our trips, you can choose to be matched with a same sex traveler and only pay the twin share price.

If you prefer your own space, we offer single room supplements across our worldwide trips.

Top Solo Travel Tours

Save up to $600

Capitals of Scandinavia

5 Locations

4 Countries

10 Day Scandinavian Tour of Denmark, Norway, Sweden and Finland

Save up to $750

Scenic Scandinavia and its Fjords

14 Locations

3 Countries

14 Day Scandinavian Tour of Denmark, Norway and Sweden

Save up to $375

Highlights of Turkey

15 Locations

10 Day Turkey Tour of Istanbul, Pamukkale and Cappadocia

Internal flights included

Save up to $400

Best of Portugal

16 Locations

11 Day Portugal Tour to Lisbon, Algarve and Porto

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Solo travel inspiration

Take on the world with our solo travel adventures

Some of life's greatest lessons are learned through travel, so what are you waiting for? From meeting new friends to having eye-opening experiences every day, our solo trips will enrich you in ways you could never imagine.

Be inspired

Embark on your own personal journey with our solo travel tours. Wherever you go, you’ll travel with new friends by your side, and our Travel Directors will always ensure your comfort and look out for you every step of the way. From the wonders of Italy and Spain , to the treasures of Switzerland and Scandinavia , your solo trip may be the best thing you ever do for yourself.

Connect with locals

We take you to the best solo travel destinations, where you’ll be met with the warmest of welcomes. Learn how to cook like an Italian nonna in the Tuscan hills , enjoy an evening of storytelling on a goat farm in Norway , meet the liberated women of Demircidere in Turkey , or the talented single female artisans of Iraq Al Amir in Jordan . Wherever you choose to travel to, you’ll join local families to share traditional meals and hear their stories.

Solo traveler options

Choose a solo room share or upgrade to a solo room for more space. Access discounted single supplements on select departures of our award-winning handcrafted itineraries. Experience the best of every destination, and enjoy the freedom of solo travel.

All you need to know about Solo Travel

Where can i go on vacation alone.

You can travel solo all over the world. Each year, millions of people travel alone, enjoying the independence of forging their own travel path or using it as an opportunity to connect with other travelers. If you want to travel solo, we recommend our specially-crafted tours, so you can meet like-minded solo travelers from all over the world.

Where is the best place to travel alone?

We love traveling solo in places like Europe, Canada, Australia, Singapore and Japan, but there are dozens of great places to travel solo around the world. If you want to make new friends and experience new things, you'll love our handcrafted group tours, where you’ll see and experience the best of each destination, while learning new skills like cooking with local chefs and enjoying dinner and storytelling with local families.

Why is solo travel important?

Traveling alone is one of the most enriching experiences you can have. It’s empowering and liberating and will challenge your limits. It helps you get out of your comfort zone, gain confidence, and see the world in a unique way. Solo travel also gives you the opportunity to learn about new cultures, gain new skills, and meet like-minded people who might just become lifelong friends.

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Girl about the Globe

Making solo travel easier.

Solo Travel in Hawaii

Types of Girl about the Globe – Active GatG, Beach GatG, Nature GatG, Ocean GatG, Party GatG

Hawaii in the USA , is a dream destination that I have yet to discover on a Hawaii solo trip. So, for this guide, I've compiled a list of recommendations from our solo female community on their favourite things to see and do in Hawaii. 

If you are planning to solo travel to Hawaii, discover where to go in the islands, where to stay as a solo and how to get around. All recommendations for Hawaii solo travel come with our Solo Female Friendly endorsement. Just choose the relevant section or read the full article for your solo trip to Hawaii. 

* Before you solo female travel in Hawaii, check what paperwork or visas are required for The USA

N.b. By booking through this page for your solo travel Hawaii trip, you are helping to improve the lives of vulnerable girls about the globe. Thanks for helping.

About Hawaii

Getting around hawaii, hawaii accommodation.

• Tours in Hawaii

Yoga Retreats in Hawaii

When to go to hawaii, conscious travel in hawaii, map of hawaii, plan a trip to hawaii.

Hawaii is an amazing destination and one for the solo bucket list. It attracts women searching for transformational travel, surfers and nature and volcano lovers. As well as gorgeous locations, the islands have a lot of historic significance. Crime is virtually nonexistent here but as a solo be careful with your belongings on isolated beaches.

Each island in Hawaii has its own individual character. Areas such as Hilo are untouristy, so you can integrate with the locals for a more authentic experience. The hiking in Kauai is stunning but if you want to avoid couples or people honeymooning then you may want to skip Kauai. 

Hawaii is part of the USA and is known for its volcanic islands, national parks and lava fields, eco-tourism, and black sand beaches. It is also a mecca for surfers but there is more to Hawaii with its cosmopolitan, eclectic atmosphere than riding its waves. Below are our favourite can’t miss Hawaii destinations to inspire you for your Hawaiian trip.

The Magic of Maui

If your budget allows for it then you really can't go wrong with the breathtakingly beautiful island of Maui in Hawaii. This paradise isle is filled with natural wonders including waterfalls, volcanoes and hidden beaches. The sunsets at the East Maui volcano (Haleakalā) are simply breathtaking.

To meet others head to the north end of the island which is more populated. It is also touristy (it is windy here too). Or l earn more about the history of Maui and Hawaiian values through a storytelling and culinary evening at Mokapu Farm . 

Maui is also great for diving with lots of marine life or you can take a Maui snorkel tour with an option of SNUBA too. You can even snorkel through underwater lava arches and swim with Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles at Turtle Town. Just look out for the current between Maui and Molokai, which can be strong. 

Road To Hana

If you come to Hawaii and plan to stay in Maui, you simply have to see the Road to Hana, one of the most gorgeous landscapes and beautiful drives in the world. Journey along the Hana

Highway to East Maui and you'll see beautiful sites including gorgeous waterfalls, black sand beaches, unique volcanic cinder cones, bamboo fields, and the only winery in Maui. Stop at some of the fantastic beaches and hidden coves along the way.

USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor

The most popular visitor destination in the whole of the Hawaiian islands is the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor. Each year, more than 2 million people visit the Arizona Memorial in Honolulu to learn more about what happened at this famous harbour and the events that transpired on that fateful day. 

This site is operated by the National Park Service and is made up of more than 17 acres of land. You'll need at least two hours to join the guided tour which includes the boat shuttles, a film about its history and an additional boat tour. * Find out more about the tour

If you love to surf, then you’re going to absolutely fall head over heels in love with the North Shore of Oahu. This area is well renowned for its amazing coastlines, beautiful beaches, and its waves during the winter that are completely larger-than-life. Waimea Bay is a big wave surfing spot where you can watch surfers riding the perfect waves.

But surfing isn’t the only thing to do on the North Shore as Oahu has some of the islands' best shipwrecks and aeroplane wrecks to dive down to. You can even take a shark dive on the North Shore. 

Or head to the East Side for some great long beaches and body surfing. For somewhere more remote with calmer beaches, head to the West Side of the island. If walking along a beach at sunset is more your style, a walk along the shore of Waikiki Beach in the evening is simply magical. 

Art lovers, on the other hand, will love the Haleiwa Arts festival held on the North Shore of Oahu annually. The event celebrates local culture and includes dance, music, arts, jewellery, painting and sculpture.

Head to the island of Kauai, for a slower pace of life. It is the oldest of the islands and is known as ‘the Garden Isle' as it is covered in lush tropical rainforest. While here, you should definitely explore Napali Coast State Wilderness Park, a sacred space that spans 17 miles of cliffs, beaches and waterfalls along the island's North Shore. Manawaiopuna Falls even appeared in the movie Jurassic Park.

You do need to do some planning before you tackle the steep footpath of the Kalalau Trail in the park, especially if you aren't familiar with the terrain. You may feel more comfortable as a solo taking a guided kayaking trip or boat tour from Port Allen to see the coastline from the water instead. 

As with the majority of Hawaii, Kauai is also ideal for diving. Be prepared to spot a shark or two as off the shore of Kauai you might run into some tiger sharks and black-tip reef sharks. 

Another area for hiking is the big island of Kona. One area that's good for solos is Kailua-Kona on the Big Island. The ‘Kona Side' is the liveliest and is a good base if you're planning to spend time on the west coast.

There are many things to do in Kona to keep you entertained from farmers' markets, shops, seaside restaurants and the Kailua pier, as well as plenty of Kona coffee to drink.

Because it's mainly sunny and dry here, it's good for sunbathing, hiking past lush waterfalls in the National Parks or snorkelling at Cook's Bay seeing beautiful reefs. There is nothing that you can't find on the island. 

If you have time, the island of Molokai is also fantastic for hiking. This island is the second smallest Hawaiian island and has some of the world's highest sea cliffs, scenic trails and secluded beaches. But it's also an island that is rich in heritage. It isn't touristy and the majority of the population here are native Hawaiians who live rurally. 

Take a guide if you're planning to take the steep path to Kalaupapa National Historical Park, a preserved area that was a former leprosy colony, or view it from the viewpoint in Palaau State Park, or visit Papohaku Beach, one of Hawaii's longest beaches. You won't find many other visitors here so it's perfect for some solitude and to experience authentic Hawaii. 

The Road to Hana is one of the most popular activities and is the most beautiful drive in Hawaii. Hire a car to experience these gorgeous landscapes at your own pace. The busiest roads in Hawaii are on Oahu where you'll find developed roads and motorways.

The least busy is Molokai. There is hardly any traffic here and hiring a car is the best way to get around or you can do what the others do and hitchhike which is normal and encouraged. 

Or you could take an inland cruise that takes you around the islands. Water taxis operate between Maui and Lanai, and Hawaiian Air and Mokulele Airlines both offer flights to and from the islands.

It’s also possible to see Hawaii on a layover, even if you only have 8 hours to spare. Taking an Uber can be the quickest and easiest mode of transport if you are short on time.

Depending on what time you arrive, you can check your bag in early and hire a car (or take an Uber) to experience an early morning sunrise hike at Diamond Head State Monument, and avoid the crowds. Then onto the Pearl Harbour Memorial which is only a 40-minute drive from the airport. 

* TIP – Rome2Rio is a great resource for how to get from place to place.

Hawaii has all types of accommodations. From hotels to B&Bs, boutique accommodations, and apartments.  If you're drawn to areas that are more touristy, you may prefer the beaches of Waikiki for resorts, or resorts on the Big Island or Kauai.

The best areas to stay in Maui for resorts are near Lahaina and Ka’anapali Beach but a ccommodation can be pricey in Maui. The Whaler Maui real estate scene is hot in case you decide to stay!

You can cut costs by finding a more affordable Airbnb, or a guesthouse away from the expensive area of Wailea. Molokai offers a more authentic experience where you can book homestays and stay with the locals. 

There are many eco-lodges in the area, but given the beautiful greenery, you might want to set up a camp in one of the campgrounds instead. 

Below are recommended accommodations from our solo female community. For all other accommodations, click on the link below. 

* Check prices, dates and availability for all Hawaii accommodation

Honolulu – Queen Kapiolani Hotel

In Honolulu, this 4-star hotel is only one block from Waikiki Beach. The staff are really friendly and welcoming. There’s an outdoor pool with a stunning view of Diamond Head, yoga classes, free filtered water and coffee in the lobby, as well as an onsite restaurant, and a gym.

Rooms have air-conditioning and many have fridges and a balcony. Choose from a studio ocean view, a studio, a junior suite with a balcony, or a queen or king with a city or ocean view. You can also upgrade to a penthouse.

• Prices start from $197 for a studio ocean view
• Check prices, dates and availability: Queen Kapiolani Hotel

Maui – Aloha Surf Hostel

The Aloha Surf Hostel on Maui is a great place to stay for solo travellers. As well as being located between Kanaha beach, and Ho’okipa beach on the North Shore, some of the best surfing spots, they offer tip-based tours around the island every day to hiking trails and hidden beaches, making it easier to meet others to explore the island with.

It’s really sociable too with ping pong, a pool table and a hot tub to chill out in. Plus. Paia town is nearby with shops and restaurants. Choose from a bed in a dormitory room or a private room if you prefer your own space. Breakfast is included in the rate.

• Prices start from $50 plus tax for a bed in a dorm room
• Check prices, dates and availability: Aloha Surf Hostel

Volcano Eco Retreat by Heart Core Hotels

Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, the Volcano Eco Retreat is a friendly vegetarian and vegan oasis, set within the peaceful Fern Acres. The grounds are stunning and you really feel one with nature with cute lizards and a frog chorus at night.

Bikes here are free and there is a spa to help you rejuvenate and unwind. The beds in your bamboo bungalow are comfortable and you’ll receive a warm welcome and plenty of delicious homemade produce and breakfast too. Bungalows come with a garden view.

• Prices start from $255 for a bungalow with a garden view.
• Check prices, dates and availability: Volcano Eco Retreat

Tours of Hawaii

Banzai Divers – Offers diving in the Pupukea Marine Life Preserve in Hawaii (known as ‘Sharks Cove.’) See turtles, seals and rays and experience underwater lava tubes, tunnels and arches. Choose from a snorkel tour or a night dive. Even if you have never dived before you can experience your first dive here. 

Get Your Guide Hawaii – Get Your Guide helps you to find top-rated activities and day tours in worldwide destinations including Hawaii. Choose from a 2-hour whale-watching cruise from Lahaina Harbor, an audio tour of the Official USS Arizona Memorial in Oahu, or a Molokini and Turtle Town snorkel from Maui including lunch.

Some of the tours require a minimum of 2 people but there are plenty to book as a solo including a Waikiki glass-bottom boat cruise from Honolulu, or Waikiki, and it’s really simple to use. Just check the reviews, price and availability then book online. Read my Get Your Guide review   or click the link below for all their tours.

* Check all Get Your Guide tours, prices and availability

Viato r Hawaii – Viator is similar to Get Your Guide. They are an American company and a tour platform with more than 345,000 tours and worldwide activities. Choose from an ultimate Circle Island adventure including Waimea Waterfall, a night manta ray adventure where you are guaranteed to see the rays or a Kuala Ranch Hollywood movie site and ranch tour to see where films such as Jurassic Park, and Pearl Harbor were filmed. Read my Viator review or click the link for all their tours.

* Check all Viator tours, prices and availability

For the spiritual and wellness Girl about the Globe, there are plenty of retreats in Hawaii. From Hawaii retreat centres to sound healing and spiritual retreats in Hawaii, here are the recommended retreats in Hawaii for solo female travellers. For all other Hawaii retreats, click on the link below and search for recommendations based on the duration of time or cost. * Check all yoga retreats in Hawaii

6 Day Sound Healing in Maui

If you’re staying in Maui, this 6-day sound healing and yoga retreat in Maui, Hawaii is a mystical alchemy experience. Find your true north and get clarity on your path during a daily 2-hour yoga and sound healing retreat. Through pranayama, breath work and guided meditation with EFT energy and learning about shadow archetypes you will experience true transformation at the Black Swan Temple. Prices are from £2498 / $3095 for a private single room including daily vegetarian breakfast and lunch. * Check dates and availability: 6 Day Sound Healing Retreat

8 day Ayurvedic Alchemy Yoga Retreat

Rejuvenate and heal your soul in this week-long retreat in Hawaii. Held at a permaculture farm on Maui, you can enjoy daily yoga and breathwork with an abundance of nature as you visit the island’s tallest waterfall and beaches on this Hawaii yoga retreat.

As well as crystal bowl sound healing, you’ll also receive an introduction to Ayurveda and sauna nights. The price starts from £2500 / $3098 for a shared dorm on the farm as well as delicious organic meals. * Check dates and availability: 8 Day Ayurvedic Alchemy Retreat

10 Day Yoga Immersion Retreat

If you have longer than a week, this 10-day Hawaii retreat yoga immersion retreat includes traditional ashtanga vinyasa yoga and Ayurveda for all yoga levels. In a paradise retreat in Maui learn the 8 limbs of yoga including Patanjali Sutras and breath and Pranayama work.

Enjoy an introduction to the perfect health as well as meditation practices and Ayurvedic-influenced juices. The retreat includes free time to explore nature hikes and the beaches of Maui. Prices start from £1496 / $1854 for a private single room. * Check date and availability: 10 Day Maui Yoga Retreat

Hawaii is warm all year round and has pleasant temperatures every month. The coasts can vary with different climates making it perfect to visit at any time. However, the best time to visit is from March to September when it is hotter. These months also have less rainfall.

To escape the crowds, visit between October to November when it is quieter. Expect cooler temperatures the higher the attitude. The chart below shows the annual temperatures in Honolulu from January to December. 

• Can I drink the water? Yes, but check in the more remote areas.
• Is tipping expected? Hawaii is part of the United States where tipping is expected for every service. Tip between 15-20% in restaurants, $1-$2 for drinks, and $5-$10 for tour guides depending on whether it’s a half or full-day tour. Find out more
• Fixed price or barter? Fixed price generally.
• Any ATMs? Yes, you’ll find ATMs all over Hawaii.
• Which side of the road do they drive? The right-hand side
• Good for vegetarians? Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan restaurants on the Big Island, Kauai, Maui, and Oahu. 
• Any Seven Wonders of the World? No.

Social Impact Projects

Many native Hawaiians do not benefit from the tourism industry. Many have been left homeless due to rising rent prices or bigger companies buying off their land. Thus, it is extremely important to support native-owned and native-run projects and initiatives and to decolonize your vacation as much as possible.

The Native Hawaiian Hospitality Association was founded on the basis of wanting to sustainably develop Hawaii’s hospitality and tourism industry by using native Hawaiian cultural values. On their website , you can find resources on how to write about Hawaii respectfully.

Native Intelligence – Native Intelligence is a retail establishment located in Wailuku, Maui. Their goal is to showcase local artists and creatives who protect and evolve traditional craftmanship. Native Intelligence prides itself on being an advocate for both culture and community.  

Hololeʻa – Tour Loko Ea Fishpond. Take a tour around the Loco Ea fishpond and learn about its history and enjoy a vast array of demonstrations from bamboo-pole fishing to net-throwing. Participants are encouraged to help restore the pond to its former glory through meaningful work activities.  

Stay Eco in Hawaii

Native-owned hotels and hostels are hard to come by, which illustrates further the problem of social and economic injustice the indigenous population of the islands face. The hotels suggested here are great for the environment but sadly not native-owned or native-run, thus take these suggestions with a grain of salt.  

The Modern Honolulu

The Modern Honolulu is a trendy and award-winning hotel that is perfectly suited for the solo traveller. Its perfect location at the gateway to Waikiki Beach begs tourists and travellers alike to explore the culture of the island, go shopping, or venture into the great outdoors.

Equipped with SMART Room technology, having their own green team, and donating all food scraps to a local farm, the Modern Honolulu is perfect for the urban traveller who likes to stay green!  

* Check prices, dates and availability: The Modern Honolulu

Volcano House

Do you dream of rolling out of bed and waking up on the edge of a volcano? Promise it’s not that scary! At Volcano House, you can stay in one of their historic guest rooms, cabins or campsites and do just that! Shop a collection of jewellery and crafts made by local artisans at their gift shop, enjoy the hotel’s commitment to the preservation and protection of the national park's resources and have fun on your once-in-a-lifetime adventure.  

* Check prices, dates and availability: Volcano House

Books to read before you go: Detours: A decolonial guide to Hawai’i

Issues affecting vulnerable girls in Hawaii

* For many holiday-makers Hawaii looks and feels like paradise, however, the small island suffers from over-tourism, over-exploitation, and sex trafficking. A study conducted by Child and Family Service revealed that more than a quarter of their participants mentioned having experienced sex trafficking. 64% of those who experienced sex trafficking identified as Native Hawaiian and three-quarters identified as female.

* The same report unearthed that community problems and child abuse most likely contributed to the vulnerability of those victims. Read more…

Current Time in Honolulu

Budget – $170 a day

Capital –   Honolulu

Population – 1.416 million

Language spoken – English

Local Currency – US Dollar  

Do I need a visa?  

Vaccinations Required  

Did you know? Hawaii is also considered part of Polynesia

Lingo – They speak English

Useful Info

Airlines to Hawaii  

The Best Time to Go – May 

Which Plug Do I Need?  

UNESCO Sites in Hawaii  

Events and Festivals in Hawaii

Local Cost Guide

Local Customs & Traditions

Authors: Thank you to: Yolande Jackovics Langley, Monica Tang, Mara Furlenmeier, Tracy Milne, Samantha Cunningham, Sarah Logan Gregory from our Girls about the Globe community for helping to put this guide together. 

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1 thought on “ Solo Travel in Hawaii ”

I like how you mentioned that Hawaii is warm all year round and has pleasant temperatures every month. My cousin mentioned to me last week that she is planning to go to Hawaii for her birthday and asked me if I have any idea where is the good place to go so that we can enjoy our vacation there. Thanks to this informative article and I am considering myself to join her and I’ll be sure to tell her that we can rent a taxi tour guide as they can help us bring to our ideal destination.

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Hawaii Tours for Seniors

Explore Hawaii with other Seniors. These 23 tours include popular destinations like Honolulu and Waikiki.

23 trips for 'over 50s' in Hawaii with 749 reviews

Hawaiian Explorer (8 Days, Intra Tour Air Hilo To Kahului)

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Hawaiian Discovery (11 Days, Intra Tour Air Hilo To Kahului)

• Island Hopping
• Coach / Bus

Hawaiian Islands

The tour had a few bumps. It would have been better if there were some included meals. There was no information about some of the excursions such as where the island tour stopped.

Best of the Hawaiian Islands

A fantastic tour! Our guide, Pat, was great. Really went out of her way to get us all the excursions we wanted. Our favorite part was the whale watching. I highly recommend doing this tour in the winter months when the humpbacks are there breeding.

Grand Hawaii Vacation

Enjoyed the entire experience. Knowledgeable people, learning history, downtime, good food, excellent whale watching!

• Sightseeing

5-Day Classic Hawaii Experience

Hawaii with Oahu & Maui (Classic, With The Big Island, 10 Days, Intra Tour Air Honolulu To Kahului)

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year

Honolulu Hawaii Experience 7D/6N

I had a great time in Honolulu. The accommodation was good, rooms were basic but clean. The 4 day trips (mornings, latest return was 2.30pm) were really good, although some left pretty early which meant missing the included breakfast (good pancakes but no other options) 3 out of 6 days. Also worth noting that the Ocean Voyage tour at Kualoa Ranch (beautiful place and really good!) pick up was at 7.15am at a hotel 40mins walk away at the other end of town, then bus back wasn't til 1pm. Long day for a 45min boat ride so might be worth looking into other activities there too. Overall everything went according to plan and I had a great time, but as expected this would be a good bit cheaper to book everything yourself.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Hawaii with Oahu & Maui (Classic, Base, 7 Days, Intra Tour Air Honolulu To Kahului)

Honolulu Hawaii Experience 4D/3N

Bamba Travel was the only tour operator which responded and agreed to help me plan my tour in Hawaii. Although I would have liked a more thoroughly organised tour like pick up from the cruise terminal and transport to the Kualoa ranch organised, I had to take the public bus by myself. It was a bit daunting but Bamba gave me some instructions. At Hawaii it quite easy and safe to take public transport during the day. Bamba was helpful at every step. A bit slow with regards to correspondence bec of time differences as they are in the USA but they would respond daily. Thank you Bamba for helping me organise a tailored plan to meet most of my needs. I had a great time in Hawaii.

Grand Hawaiian Adventure Four Islands featuring O'ahu, Big Island, Maui and Kauai (Honolulu, HI to Kauai, HI) (2024)

Best of Hawaii (10 Days, Intra Tour Air Hilo To Kahului)

Hawaii Four Island Adventure (13 Days, Intra Tour Air Hilo To Kahului)

Hawaii with Oahu & Maui (Small Groups, Base, 7 Days, Intra Tour Air Honolulu To Kahului)

Hawaii with Oahu & Maui (Small Groups, With The Big Island, 10 Days, Intra Tour Air Honolulu To Kahului)

What people love about hawaii tours for seniors.

We loved the tour! The hotels/resorts overall were good. We didn’t always get the best view & some of the meals were not great. The Outrigger, in Honolulu, was very nice! Good food, nice room, but we did not have an ocean view. We found out from some of our tour guests, that we could have upgraded, to an ocean view. We were never informed of this! Pearl Harbor was great, however, I wish the tour included the Missouri. Both my husband & I could have spent more time there. Our best accommodation was at the Outrigger, on the Big Island, however the meals (including the Luau) left a lot to be desired. Our room was perfect, along with the pool. Convenient to eat offsite!!! The Volcano National Park tour was perfect!!! My favorite tour! We loved Maui, however our ocean view was ground level, & could not view the pool, or beach, because the cabanas blocked the view. Strange bathroom layout! We like a dressing/vanity area separate from the shower & commode. Food at the Sheraton was excellent!!!, along with other choice restaurants to choose from! Our tour directer, Lisa Beardsley was the best!!!..so kind, knowledgeable & fun to be with!!! She truly went above & beyond to cater to everyone’s needs! The arrangements, island hopping, check-ins, excursion meeting times…All over planning was excellent! Thank you Tour Radar & Globus for a memorable experience!

This was an amazing trip. Everything was so well organized and it was wonderful having everything planned. We were able to see all of the things we wanted to see but had plenty of time for relaxing. I recommend this tour if you want to experience all the variety of experiences Hawaii has to offer.

More From Forbes

The most expensive u.s. vacation spot—according to a 2024 report.

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The J-Bar at Hotel Jerome in Aspen, an iconic spot to have a cocktail while visiting this posh ... [+] Colorado vacation destination.

Love to travel to the most posh places? A new analysis from travel experts at the blog OptimosTravel ranks Aspen—a mountain town in Colorado—the most expensive U.S. vacation destination.

For travelers looking to spend a pretty penny, there’s plenty of ways to do just that in Aspen: A hulking tomahawk ribeye for two ($150) with blue cheese bone marrow butter at Steakhouse No. 316; a Christmas-week stay in the ski-in, ski-out Little Nell in a luxury suite (starting at $2,719 a night), and a shopping spree at some of the town’s luxury stores like Gucci, Prada, and Hermès.

But because Aspen is an outdoor lover’s paradise, there’s plenty of ways to enjoy the hiking trails and open spaces for free or for the cost of a parking permit if you’re visiting Maroon Bells, a popular hiking and photography spot where bell-shaped peaks reflect into a lake.

An autumn view of the snow-coated Maroon Bells reflecting in crystal clear Maroon Lake, Aspen, ... [+] Colorado.

As part of its analysis, the experts at OptimosTravel say they analyzed more than 100 well-known destinations across the country, taking into account popular travel expenses like meals, public transportation, room rates, and attraction fees.

Exclusive Employers Are Souring On Ivy League Grads While These 20 New Ivies Ascend

New ios 18 ai security move changes the game for all iphone users, nyt strands hints spangram and answers for monday april 29th.

On a clear day with no traffic delays, it takes about 3 1/2 hours to drive from Denver to Aspen. But many fly into the Aspen/Pitken County Airport, with United Airlines, Delta, and American Airlines serving the airport.

“Aspen's breathtaking scenery comes with a premium price tag,” the study says.

Why Is Aspen So Famous?

Aspen is most famous for its skiing, with runs spread across four mountains: Aspen Highlands, Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, and Buttermilk.

The alpine ski village is also a known winter playground for celebs like Justin and Hailey Bieber, Kendall Jenner, Mariah Carey, Rihanna, Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell, Elton John, Kevin Costner, and many more.

ASPEN, CO - DECEMBER 29: Kevin Costner is seen on December 29, 2023 in Aspen, Colorado. (Photo by ... [+] BG041/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images)

Aspen has a rich history, too, from its silver mining boom in the late 1800s to the World War II veterans imaging the ski runs on Aspen Mountain.

Is Aspen An Expensive City?

Silver Queen ski Gondola on Aspen Mountain

Aspen is an expensive city to live in and visit. The average home value in Aspen is $3.47 million, according to figures from Zillow.

According to OptimosTravel, visitors should expect to spend roughly $761.39 per day while in town. But like all ski towns, seasonality is a major factor influencing how much a vacation in Aspen will cost. Room rates are higher during peak ski season and over the holidays, and reservations are tougher to snag during those busy times.

But in the summer, you can find better deals on hotels and even save by camping in scenic spots like the Elk Mountains, where there’s wildflower fields, alpine lakes, and star-studded skies above.

Aspen also has fun free things to do: Admission is free to the Aspen Art Museum and the John Denver Sanctuary near the Roaring Fork River is a nice spot for a picnic after you’ve browsed the singer's lyrics that are etched into boulders.

J-Bar at Hotel Jerome.

The must-try tipple while in town is the Aspen Crud, a bourbon-spiked milkshake at Hotel Jerome’s J-Bar . It originated during Prohibition, a rebellious drink disguised as a soda fountain dessert. The historic property has hosted everyone from 10th Mountain Division solders who trained on the nearby slopes to Hunter S. Thompson, who would hold court here during his run for sheriff.

What are the Most Expensive Vacations in the U.S.?

According to the new study from OptimosTravel, these are the top 10 most expensive U.S. vacation spots and the estimates of the cost per person, per day to vacation in these cities.

No. 1: Aspen, Colorado

Daily Cost: $761.39

Aspen, Colorado

No. 2: Park City, Utah

Daily Cost: $710.08

Park City, Utah

No. 3: Maui, Hawaii

Daily Cost: $680.24

Road to Hana in Maui, Hawaii

No. 4: Montauk, New York

Daily Cost: $617.65

Montauk Point Lighthouse

No. 5: Santa Monica, California

Daily Cost: $592.62

Santa Monica Pier in California.

No. 6: Key West, Florida

Daily Cost: $536.67

Key West, Florida

No. 7: Charleston, South Carolina

Daily Cost: $535.68

Charleston, South Carolina

No. 8: New York City, New York

Daily Cost: $511.74

New York City

No. 9: Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

Daily Cost: $499.25

Gay Head Light and Aquinnah Cliffs at Martha's Vineyard, MA.

No. 10: Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Daily Cost: $489.67

Jackson Wyoming and Teton Valley

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I got remarried, and I'm raising 3 boys in a blended family. Kid-free travel helps us bond as a couple.

• Sara Lyle and her husband both  went through divorces and now have  shared custody of three sons with their exes.
• They let off parental stress by getting away without the kids — a tactic recommended by experts as well.
• Kid-free travel allows them to reconnect as a couple and counteract the demands of blending a family.

Last Christmas, my youngest son got me a "Wonder Mom" coffee mug from his school's holiday fair. It's red and blue with yellow stars and makes me smile whenever I see it in the cupboard. While I appreciate the sweet gesture, the gift didn't come with any superpowers. If it did, they would come in handy on school days. Allow me to explain.

My husband and I are raising a blended family with three boys — 8, 13, and 15 — who each go to a different school with slightly different start times. We have one car, so ensuring they arrive before the last bell rings requires Swiss time-keeping precision.

To beat the clock, I get up at 6:30 a.m. and head downstairs to cook breakfast for the five of us while my husband takes care of waking up the kids. Most mornings, I make a few variations of breakfast because we have a mix of picky eaters and food allergies to accommodate, and I want to make sure they have something healthy-ish in their stomachs before leaving. There are medications and vitamins to remember, school IDs and water bottles to pack, and the dog needs to be fed, too.

Once the boys are off, my husband leaves for work, and I get started on my to-dos from the home office. After school, there are pickups, extracurricular activities, dinner, and bedtimes to juggle. My husband and I finally take off for the night around 9:30 p.m., assuming there isn't any last-minute laundry to do.

Parental burnout is on the rise

We aren't the only ones with a schedule like this — to say nothing of dealing with work, financial and other pressures — which is why it makes sense that parental burnout is so high .

A 2023 study by the American Psychological Association found that parents of children under 18 reported a significant increase in stress levels compared to pre-pandemic times. To be exact, 33% of parents now rate their stress between 8 and 10 on a 10-point scale, a 9% increase since 2019.

The APA also looked at the impact of parental burnout and recommended various strategies to "enhance resilience in parenting" such as going on vacations without the children or simply taking "microbreaks" throughout the day. This can be as simple as listening to a guided meditation in the car after running an errand.

While the microbreaks idea was a new one that I might try, my husband and I were already well-acquainted with the relationship-strengthening remedy of getting away sans kids. It makes me a better mom, too. Here's what I mean.

A balance of family vacations and solo getaways

Since my husband and I blended our households last year, we've been intentional about doing activities and outings with all three of the boys to create family memories and build some lifelong bonds.

So far, we've gone on some fun ones, including a long weekend in Colorado Springs for our wedding with the boys last summer. This fall, we're looking forward to a Caribbean cruise for a nephew's wedding.

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However, between orchestrating the travel logistics to refereeing flare-ups along the way, it can feel like we need a vacation from our family vacation when we get home.

Then, there are the realities of reentry: unpacking everything you packed before, washing the dirty clothes, putting away the laundry and luggage, and catching up on all the other stuff you missed while you were away. For us, multiply that by five.

Getting away as a couple ? It's a comparative breeze. Even just staying for a Friday or Saturday night in nearby Denver allows us to reconnect and recharge, making us better able to handle the ups and downs of modern-day parenting.

We weren't together, pre-kids

My husband and I were never a couple before having kids; we were with other partners. Now, because we share custody with our exes , there are times we are without all three of our sons. Missing them can be tough, but we cherish the opportunities we have to be as "cringe-y" as we want — a term used by our youngest regarding too much PDA — and have some non-parental fun.

Spring break this year was a blast, for example. We spent half the time soaking up the Florida sunshine, seeing family and friends in our shared hometown. Then, we hopped over to New Orleans to enjoy the French Quarter revelries and basically eat our way around town — minus any dietary restrictions from the kids.

Last fall was another adventure, hitting the streets of my old stomping grounds in New York City for five days. Stay up late, wake up late, rinse, and repeat. They don't call it the city that never sleeps for nothing.

Sure, there are heart-twinging moments when we think about the boys — what they might enjoy or find overwhelming about where we're visiting — but we wouldn't trade our kid-free trips for anything.

We learn about ourselves

One of my favorite things about travel, in general, is coming back a whole new person. Getting out of your comfort zone can transform the way you think or see the world. I have experienced this phenomenon in varying degrees at different times in my life, from the summer in high school when I stayed with a friend's family in France to the seven years my son and I lived in Singapore and had the chance to travel around Southeast Asia .

There are so many places my husband and I want to visit together, and we're eager to cross them off our now-shared bucket list.

Speaking of the list, we realize we probably have fewer years ahead of us than behind us, and we aren't waiting for retirement to enjoy the here and now. It's also wonderful to know I can explore the world with my favorite person at my side, holding my hand.

Traveling without our kids is not about abandoning ship, it's about refilling our cups. Child-free vacations might not be an option for everyone, but even a staycation can do wonders.

Got a personal essay about living abroad or parenting that you want to share? Get in touch with the editor: [email protected] .

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