best travel guide book hawaii

Your Ticket to Hawaii: the Best Guide Books to Bring on Your Trip

There are an endless amount of activities and adventures to be had when you visit Hawaii. This island chain may be one of the most remote and isolated locations in the world, but it’s also packed full of unique attractions and unreal natural beauty. It’s a top destination for travelers across the globe thanks to world-class beaches, amazing surf, and active volcanoes. 

But with so much to see, it’s hard to know how to best spend your time here. That’s why many people turn to a guide book for quick advice on the best beaches, activities, and attractions in Hawaii. High numbers of visitors coming to the major islands every year mean that there are many different guides out there as well.

Let’s take a look at some of the best guide books out there to help you plan your trip and make the most of a magical stay.

How to Use a Guide Book

Just as there is no one way to travel, there is no one way to use a guide book. With that in mind, I would suggest using any of the books you’ll find here as just that – a guide. While they can provide you with some great information and point you in the right direction, the real magic to any trip is when you allow some adventures to develop on their own. 

And Hawaii is certainly full of magic. Put the top attractions and activities you want to see or do while you visit on your itinerary, but be sure to leave some time open just to get out and explore. Ask locals their favorite locations. Learn about the history and culture of the islands. Be more than just a tourist. Step outside of your comfort zone and really get a feel for the place. You’ll be happy you did. 

Best Overall Hawaii Guide Books

These guide books all cover a lot of ground and explore each of the major Hawaiian islands. Any of these will make a good travel companion and are packed full of tips and suggestions to help you enjoy your time here. 

The Big Island Revealed: The Ultimate Guidebook

If you only bring one thing to the Big Island THIS is what you want to bring along. This one book made our first vacation 10 times better. When we created this site to help bring the treasures of the Island to the web, this book was the benchmark. If it’s on the island its in the book. It has the authors’ personality and obviously is their opinion but we found most of their assessments were spot on. Some of the other books below are nice add ons but this has to be the first book you start with in your guidebooks. We know you’ll thank us later.

Lonely Planet Hawaii

Lonely Planet is one of the best-known names in the guide book game for good reason – they always put out quality information that will lead you to unique and memorable destinations all across the world. This guide book is focused on all things Hawaii and is recommended because it takes both a budget and luxury approach to travel here. 

The book features many full-color detailed maps, sample itineraries for each island, and reviews of hotels, restaurants, and a whole lot more. If you only read one guide book before or during your trip to Hawaii, this would be the one. It also provides a good background on the islands’ history and culture, which is essential to understand before coming here. 

Fodor’s Essential Hawaii

This is another excellent guide book for your Hawaiian adventures. A nice feature about this book is that locals wrote a large portion of the content. That means you’ll get genuine insight from the people that live here, not just a summary of other traveler’s experiences. This comes in useful when you want to venture off the beaten path or discover some of the best food or experiences away from the resort crowd. 

It’s also packed full of beautiful photos, over 40 maps, and sample itineraries. You’ll also get a crash course in some Hawaiian phrases to use that can help you show thanks and respect to the locals you meet during your stay. Fodor provides you with another in-depth resource that will give you more than enough to explore throughout this book’s 592 pages. 

Frommer’s Hawaii 2020

This is another option from one of the big names in travel publishing. Frommer’s Hawaii 2020 is a recent edition with plenty of quality information to keep you busy on your trip. It covers a wide range of attractions and activities, from the best beaches and hikes to some fine dining and world-class lodging across all of the major islands. This one is a bit more adventure-oriented with tips for exploring the jungles, oceans, beaches, and forests.

Another highlight of Hawaii 2020 is a section on money-saving tips. This can be useful for any traveler to Hawaii whether you are trying to camp or staying at a 5-star resort. Many maps and itineraries are scattered across the book, and though it lacks in the historical department a bit compared to the other options above, it’s still a useful resource. 

Best Hawaiian Island Specific Guide Books

If you have the chance to visit multiple islands during your trip to Hawaii, consider yourself lucky. If you only have time for a single island, don’t fret, you’re still in for a fantastic experience, and these island-specific guide books can help you out. 

Fodor’s Big Island of Hawaii

The island of Hawaii is also known as The Big Island. It’s by far the largest of the islands and has a smaller population than Oahu or Maui. Fodor’s guide gives you an inside look at all the great activities that can found here. From watching a volcanic eruption at the summit of Mauna Kea to the Kohala Coast’s iconic beaches and everything in between, this book will have you covered. 

We mentioned it before. It is THE must-have book if you come to the island. Don’t forget this book

Lonely Planet Honolulu Waikiki & O’ahu

O’ahu is the most populated Hawaiian island and is well known for its vibrant nightlife and legendary surf. But there are plenty of other attractions and sights to see across the island as well and this Lonely Planet guide will walk you through some of the best attractions from the city to the sea. You’ll get trusted travel advice, high-quality maps, and reviews of some of the most popular lodging and dining locations. 

The Ultimate Kauai Guidebook: Kauai Revealed 

Kauai is the least populated and oldest island. It has some rugged terrain and hard to access beaches, making it a top destination for active travelers looking for adventure. This guide will give you access to those adventures and much, much more. It’s an accurate insider’s look at majestic Kauai and all of its inherent beauty. It’s one of the least visited major islands, so use the guide book to your advantage if you find yourself here. 

Best Hawaii History Books

I’m going to include a few good books here to serve as a guide to the unique history and culture of the Hawaiian islands. Learning about Hawaii before visiting is thoroughly recommended to provide you with essential background and increased respect. 

Captive Paradise: A History of Hawaii

This is a great look into the history of Hawaii and its current culture. James L. Haley paints a vivid picture of these islands and how they have changed over the years. From the rule of King Kamehameha I to the controversial annexation of Hawaii into the United States, this book is well-written and informative. It’s a highly recommended read for any visitor wishing to understand these islands and their people better. 

Hawaii: A Novel

This a book that is intimidating in size but enlightening in scope. It’s an epic look at the history of Hawaii, as told by James Michener. The book reads like a novel but paints an accurate historical picture of the first settlers of Hawaii with their beliefs and tribulations fueling a journey into unknown seas under unknown stars. It follows this history into more modern times, and even though this was written in 1959, it still holds up strong. 

If you take the time to read a few of these books before your trip to Hawaii, you’ll be better informed and be able to take full advantage of everything the land and sea here have to offer. Be sure to bring at least one of the above along with you as well – a good guidebook is essential reading for every island adventure.  

Oahu (Hawaii) Best Travel Guides and Books

• Post author: Avoid Crowds
• Post published: May 24, 2021
• Post category: Travel Guides
• Post comments: 0 Comments

Updated: January 24, 2024

Exploring the vibrant landscapes and rich culture of Oahu, Hawaii, can be both exhilarating and challenging for first-time visitors. The unique island atmosphere, with its blend of natural beauty and local customs, might seem daunting to navigate and fully appreciate. Travel guides are invaluable tools for not only ensuring your safety but also for enriching your Hawaiian adventure. They offer insights and practical tips that go beyond the scope of online resources.

Oahu, known for its bustling tourist spots, diverse activities, and distinct island lifestyle, presents a myriad of choices for travelers. With its popular attractions often drawing large crowds, and a wide array of experiences to choose from, thoughtful planning is essential. Our selection of travel guides and books in this post aims to streamline your visit to this iconic Hawaiian destination. Each guide has been carefully chosen based on our extensive travel experience across the United States and beyond.

As seasoned travelers who have witnessed the hustle and bustle of famous locales, we understand the value of finding those serene, off-the-beaten-path spots. Our travel recommendations are backed by thorough research and personal experiences, ensuring you get the most authentic and enjoyable experience in Oahu. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, our hand-picked travel guides are here to assist you every step of the way in this celebrated Hawaiian paradise.

• All books have been handpicked by us!
• Books with bad reviews are left out.
• This post includes affiliate marketing links on which we can earn a commission.

Five Travel Tips to Enjoy Oahu more!

🌴 Explore Oahu’s Diverse Attractions : Discover the best of Oahu with a comprehensive Ultimate Circle Island Adventure . This tour covers stunning waterfalls and lunch, giving you a taste of the island’s natural beauty and local cuisine.

🏖️ Experience Traditional Hawaiian Culture : Immerse yourself in Hawaiian traditions at the Paradise Cove Luau . Enjoy authentic Hawaiian food, entertainment, and a sunset beachside setting that creates an unforgettable evening.

🛳️ Dive into History at Pearl Harbor : Take a poignant journey through history with the Pearl Harbor and Honolulu City Tour . This tour offers insights into the impactful events of WWII and Honolulu’s historical landmarks.

📚 Get the Inside Scoop on Oahu : Enhance your trip with expert tips and hidden gems using the guidebook “Oahu Revealed” . This guide is perfect for exploring the best beaches, hikes, and secret spots of Oahu.

🏨 Stay in Style and Comfort : Find the perfect accommodation to suit your needs and budget on Oahu with Booking.com . Whether you’re looking for luxury resorts or cozy beachside bungalows, you’ll find options to make your stay memorable.

Explore Oahu with the Ultimate Guide: Lonely Planet Honolulu Waikiki & Oahu

Lonely Planet Honolulu Waikiki & Oahu 6 (Travel Guide) is an essential tool for anyone venturing into the heart of Hawaii. With a high rating from hundreds of travelers, this guidebook stands out as a trusted source of information. It’s your perfect partner in uncovering the best of Honolulu, Waikiki, and Oahu, from dancing the hula and snorkeling in turquoise waters to enjoying breathtaking ocean views. Start your unforgettable Hawaiian journey with the most relevant and up-to-date advice.

Key Features of the Guide:

• 📅 Current and Reliable : Businesses and attractions rechecked post-COVID-19 to ensure up-to-date information.
• 🗺️ Vibrant Maps and Images : Navigate and visualize your trip with ease using detailed maps and inspiring images.
• 🌟 Customizable Highlights and Itineraries : Plan your trip perfectly with recommendations tailored to your needs and interests.
• 🤫 Local Insider Tips : Get the inside scoop on how to save time, avoid crowds, and experience Oahu like a local.
• 🕒 Essential Information at a Glance : Access key details like operating hours, contact information, transit tips, and pricing for easy planning.

Beyond practical advice, the guide offers rich cultural insights into Hawaii’s history, music, cuisine, arts, and more. It covers diverse areas from Honolulu and Waikiki to Pearl Harbor and the North Shore, ensuring you won’t miss the hidden gems and must-visit spots.

Discover the Best of Oahu with Lonely Planet : Whether you’re seeking popular attractions or off-the-beaten-path experiences, Lonely Planet Honolulu Waikiki & Oahu 6 is your definitive guide to exploring the island’s wonders. It promises not just a journey through stunning landscapes but a deep connection with the vibrant culture and spirit of Oahu.

Discover Oahu Like Never Before: Oahu Revealed, The Ultimate Guide

Oahu Revealed: The Ultimate Guide to Honolulu, Waikiki & Beyond stands as a top choice among Oahu Hawaii travel books, boasting impressive ratings on both Amazon and Goodreads. Unlike typical travel guides, this book is the result of over a year’s worth of meticulous research by local residents, offering a depth of understanding and insider knowledge that’s unparalleled.

Key Features:

• 🌴 Local Expertise : Crafted by residents who know every corner of the island.
• 🗺️ Superior Maps : Offers the most detailed and user-friendly maps available.
• 🍽️ Comprehensive Reviews : From restaurants to adventure activities, all facets of the island are covered.
• 🏖️ Hidden Gems : Discover both popular spots and hidden secrets of Oahu.
• 😄 Engaging and Honest : Written in a witty, honest tone, making it a fun and informative read.

Oahu Revealed is not just a guide; it’s a gateway to experiencing the best and avoiding the worst of Oahu. It’s an essential tool for anyone wanting to explore the island’s authentic beauty, from its bustling cityscapes to serene beaches and trails. With this guide in hand, prepare to uncover the most memorable and enjoyable experiences Oahu has to offer.

Fodor's Oahu: with Honolulu, Waikiki & the North Shore

Fodor’s Oahu: with Honolulu, Waikiki & the North Shore (Full-color Travel Guide) is an exceptional resource for travelers seeking to explore the vibrant and diverse landscapes of Oahu. Rated highly for its depth and accuracy, this guidebook is an essential companion for those looking to experience everything from Waikiki Beach’s beauty to the adrenaline rush of surfing the North Shore or snorkeling at Hanauma Bay. The guide is meticulously crafted by local travel experts, ensuring that you have the most relevant, up-to-date information for an effortless and enriching travel experience. The newly redesigned edition features an easy-to-read layout, fresh information, and stunning color photos to inspire your travels.

Key Highlights of the Guide:

• 🌟 Illustrated Ultimate Experiences Guide : Discover the top sights and activities Oahu has to offer.
• 🗓️ Multiple Itineraries : Efficiently organize your days to maximize your Hawaiian adventure.
• 🗺️ Detailed Maps and a Free Pull-Out Map : Navigate Oahu with confidence and ease.
• 📸 Vibrant Color Photos : Get inspired for your journey with beautiful imagery throughout the guide.
• 🏖️ Honest Recommendations : From the best sights to the liveliest nightlife and shopping, get trusted tips on it all.

This guidebook is filled with “Best Of” features, including Oahu’s best beaches and natural wonders, and is replete with photo-filled insights. It offers practical trip-planning tools, historical and cultural context, and special features on Hawaiian cultural traditions, making your travel both smooth and deeply engaging.

Fodor’s Oahu: A Gateway to Hawaii’s Enchanting Experiences : With its comprehensive coverage on everything from Honolulu and Pearl Harbor to the North Shore, and unique insights from local writers, this guide is your passport to discovering the hidden gems of Oahu. Whether you’re planning a relaxed beach vacation or an adventurous exploration, Fodor’s Oahu ensures you experience the best of Hawaii’s unforgettable island.

Oahu Revealed: The Ultimate Guide to Honolulu, Waikiki & Beyond

Frommer’s Hawaii 2024 (Complete Guide) offers a comprehensive and fully updated journey across the Hawaiian Islands. This guide stands out with a rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars, showcasing its reliability and popularity among travelers. It’s your all-in-one source for exploring everything Hawaii has to offer, from world-renowned beaches to hidden rainforests, and authentic Hawaiian luaus. Authored by expert journalists with extensive knowledge of the islands, this guide doesn’t shy away from telling the truth. Whether it’s snorkeling in idyllic lagoons, catching a sunrise over a majestic volcano, lounging on picturesque beaches, or immersing in Hawaii’s rich cultural traditions and regional cuisine, Frommer’s Hawaii has you covered for an unforgettable trip.

• 🗺️ Color Maps and Photos with Pullout Map : Navigate the islands with ease and inspiration.
• 🗓️ Detailed Itineraries : Tailor your trip to your interests and make the most of your Hawaiian getaway.
• 🌺 Authentic Experiences : Honor Hawaii’s diverse landscapes, traditions, and cuisine.
• 🌴 Outdoor Adventures for All : Explore jungles, beaches, seas, and mountains with tips for all skill levels.
• ⭐ Impartial and Reliable Reviews : Benefit from unbiased reviews of restaurants, tours, shops, attractions, and hotels.

This guide also provides accurate, up-to-date information on transportation, useful websites, telephone numbers, and other resources you’ll need. Plus, it’s filled with money-saving tips and exact pricing to cater to any budget, from backpackers to luxury seekers. Frommer’s guidebooks are known for over six decades of journalistic integrity, offering travelers trusted advice for a rich and comprehensive travel experience.

Experience Hawaii with Confidence and Depth with Frommer’s : Frommer’s Hawaii 2024 is more than a travel guide; it’s a trusted companion that empowers you to explore the Hawaiian Islands in depth. With expert planning advice for getting there, getting around, and making the most of your trip, your journey through Hawaii is guaranteed to be as enriching as it is enjoyable. Get ready to experience travel with ease and excitement, as Frommer’s makes your Hawaiian dreams a reality.

DK Eyewitness Top 10 Honolulu and O'ahu

DK Eyewitness Top 10 Honolulu and O’ahu (Pocket Travel Guide) offers a unique and concise exploration of Honolulu and O’ahu. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars, this guide is a favorite among travelers for its ability to distill the best of the island into accessible top-10 lists. Whether you’re interested in pristine beaches, vibrant cultural experiences, or historical sites, this guide ensures you don’t miss out on Honolulu and O’ahu’s most captivating attractions.

Key Highlights:

• 🗺️ Easy-to-Follow Itineraries : Includes six itineraries to make the most of your visit, whether it’s for a day, a weekend, or a week.
• 🏖️ Top 10 Lists : Discover the best of Pearl Harbor, beaches, restaurants, and more.
• 🌆 Explore Interesting Areas : Get the best recommendations for shopping, dining, and sightseeing.
• 🚶 Multiple Activities : Offers inspiration for family activities, free things to do, and more.
• 🗺️ Laminated Pull-Out Map and Area Maps : Navigate with ease and confidence.

This pocket-sized guide also offers street-smart advice for planning your trip, getting around, and staying safe. It’s perfect for travelers who want a focused, yet comprehensive overview of what Honolulu and O’ahu have to offer.

DK Eyewitness Top 10 Honolulu and O’ahu : A must-have guide for those who want to experience the essence of Honolulu and O’ahu. It’s your ticket to a memorable trip, packed with the best insights and tips for an enriching Hawaiian adventure.

Lonely Planet Experience Hawaii

Lonely Planet Experience Hawaii 1 (Travel Guide) offers a fresh and immersive approach to exploring the Hawaiian Islands. With a solid rating of 3.9 out of 5 stars, this guide stands out for its unique perspective on Hawaiian adventures. It’s not just about seeing the sights; it’s about engaging with Hawaii’s rich traditions, values, and contemporary trends. Whether you’re stargazing in Maui, seeking rare birds in Kalalau Valley, or finding serenity on Moloka’i’s beaches, this guide, with its expert local insights and practical planning tools, enables you to tailor a trip that’s authentically yours.

Highlights of the Guide:

• 🌺 Local Expertise : Gain fresh perspectives on Hawaii’s traditions and modern trends.
• 📍 In-the-Know Tips : Build deeper experiences at famous landmarks and sights.
• 🎉 Insider Insights : Engage in unique activities like ukulele classes, turtle tracking, and participating in local conservation efforts.
• 🥘 Local Food and Secret Spots : Discover the best festivals, hidden hangouts, and the tantalizing local food scene.
• 🗓️ Seasonal Trip Planner : Get guidance on the best times to visit, what to pack, and practical travel information.

With comprehensive maps, stunning full-color photography, and practical information on money, transportation, accommodation, and responsible travel, this guide is an essential companion for those looking to explore Hawaii beyond the typical tourist path.

Lonely Planet’s Experience Hawaii : This guide is perfect for travelers eager to create their own dream itinerary based on expert recommendations. It includes QR codes for additional travel secrets, ensuring your Hawaiian journey is filled with unforgettable, story-worthy moments. Explore Honolulu, O’ahu, Kaua’i, Maui, and Moloka’i with a guide that goes beyond the ordinary, offering a deeper connection with the magical Hawaiian Islands.

Eat Like a Local-Oahu: Oahu Hawai’I Food Guide

Eat Like a Local-Oahu: Oahu Hawai’I Food Guide offers a unique culinary journey through Oahu, seen through the eyes of a local. This Kindle edition, with a rating of 3.8 out of 5 stars, is part of the “Eat Like a Local United States Cities & Towns” series. It’s more than just a food guide; it’s an invitation to experience Oahu’s culture, landscapes, and people through its diverse and delicious cuisine.

Key Aspects of the Book:

• 🍽️ Local Culinary Insights : Discover Oahu’s food scene from a resident’s perspective.
• 🌴 Unique Edible Experiences : Learn about the island’s culinary traditions and contemporary flavors.
• 🥘 Beyond Tourist Eateries : Explore where locals dine and what they eat.
• 📖 Engaging Narrative : Engross yourself in the rich stories behind Oahu’s dishes and drinks.
• 🧳 Culinary Tourism Focus : Understand the intimate connection between food and Oahu’s culture.

Eat Like a Local-Oahu is perfect for food enthusiasts and travelers looking to deepen their understanding and enjoyment of Oahu’s cuisine. It encourages you to slow down, delve into the local food scene, and enjoy the authentic flavors of this Hawaiian paradise. By the end of this guide, you’ll be eager and prepared to embark on a flavorful adventure in Oahu.

You Might Also Like

California best travel books and travel guides

Hungary Best Travel Guides & Travel Books

5 Best Italy Travel Books & Travel Guides

Leave a reply cancel reply.

• Free shipping on all orders

• North America
• South America
• Middle East
• Australia & Pacific

New Releases

Trending Destinations

Experience Guides

• Outdoor Travels & Adventures
• Epic Guides
• Food & Drink
• Gifts & Inspiration
• Language Guides
• Lonely Planet Kids

Country Guides

Pocket Guides

All Guides & eBooks

• Lonely Planet Insider

Your cart is empty

Experience Hawaii

Get this book for free by becoming a Lonely Planet Insider:

• 3 eBook downloads every year
• Exclusive offers and discounts

$2.99 USD/month (charged annually) Learn more

- Local experts  share their love for the  real  Hawaii, offering  fresh perspectives  into the state’s  traditions, values  and  modern trends  to make your travel experience even more meaningful

- In the know   tips  to help you build on your experiences when visiting well-known sights and landmarks

- Fun insights  that will pique your curiosity and take you to the  heart of the place  - visit Mo’omeheu at the Royal Hawaiian Center for ukulele and lei making classes; join wildlife ecologists to track turtles off the Wai’anae Coast; give back to the land and help restore  loko i’a  (Hawaiian fishponds)

- Insider scoop  on the best festivals, secret hangouts, hidden locations, tantalising local food scene and photo-worthy views

- Handy seasonal trip planner  to guide you on  where to go ,  when to travel  and  what to pack

- Practical information  on money, getting around, unique and local ways to stay, and responsible travel

- Comprehensive selection of maps  throughout and  beautiful full-colour photography  to inspire you as you plan your unforgettable journey

Covers  Honolulu, O’ahu, Kaua’i, Maui, Moloka’i

ISBN: 9781838694838

Edition: 1st

Publication Date: September 2022

Writers: Lonely Planet

258 pages | Dimensions: 140mm width × 180mm height

Next edition due: August 2026

Which guidebook is right for me?

Country, city & regional guides.

• Top experience collections
• Regional itineraries recommended by experts (from a couple of days to multi-week)
• 3D illustrations and guided tours of key sights
• Extensive coverage of history and culture
• Detailed maps throughout - includes walking maps and a pull-out planning map

EXPERIENCE guides

(country, city & regional).

• Led by local experts that reveal their favorite experiences and hidden gems
• Personal itinerary building tools
• Seasonal planning calendars
• QR codes unlock additional online content

POCKET guides

(city & regional).

• Special features cover most popular sights
• Content organized by neighborhhod
• Recommended 1, 2, 3 and 4-day itineraries
• Guided walking tours

7 Best Hawaii Travel Books of all time

Experience the vibe of this remote chain of islands through the vivid pages of best Hawaii travel books. Hawaii, with its unparalleled natural beauty, world-class beaches, and thrilling adventures , has captivated travelers from around the globe. 

For those seeking the perfect itinerary to maximize their time on these idyllic islands, trusty Hawaii travel guidebooks become invaluable companions.

With endless activities and attractions to explore, deciding where to begin your Hawaiian escapade can be overwhelming. 

The charm of Hawaii lies not only in its breathtaking landscapes but also in the unique experiences waiting to be discovered through a series of travel books on Hawaii.

Navigating the array of Hawaii books, you’ll find important insights, local tips, and must-visit destinations. 

From secret beaches to off-the-beaten-path gems, these best travel books on Hawaii promise to unveil the essence of Hawaii’s allure, ensuring an unforgettable and magical stay. 

Table of Contents

7 best hawaii books of all time to read before visiting hawaii, 1. frommer’s hawaii (complete guide).

Dip your toes in an enigmatic Hawaiian adventure with Frommer’s Hawaii (Complete Guide). 

This is one of the most comprehensive travel guidebooks for Hawaii and your key to unlocking the wonders of the major Hawaiian Islands, guiding you from iconic beaches to hidden rainforests and everything in between. 

With expert and reliable advice from seasoned journalists who intimately know every inch of the islands, you can trust their truthful recommendations.

From snorkeling in palm-fringed lagoons to witnessing the sunrise over majestic volcanoes, this guide offers authentic experiences that honor the diverse topography and customs of Hawaii. With color maps, photos, and a handy pullout map, navigating the islands becomes a cakewalk.

Frommer’s Hawaii tourist books review with genuine star ratings ensures you discover the best restaurants, tours, attractions, and accommodations, tailored to your budget. 

With accurate and up-to-date information on transportation and essential resources, you have a trustworthy companion in Frommer’s Hawaii travel book.

2. Hawaii Travel Guide by World Citizen

With the “Hawaii Travel Guide” by World Citizen, you can go on a real and amazing trip through Hawaii’s beautiful scenery. This guide was written by experienced tourists who have seen the beauty of Honolulu, Maui, the Big Island, Kauai, and other places. It claims to be your best friend among all the travel books for Hawaii.

Through more than 30 detailed maps, you can easily plan your days in this tropical paradise and make the most of your time there. Find the best beaches, surf spots, and water sports, all of which have been carefully chosen to make your experience better. Practical tools for trip planning make it easy to find your way, avoid crowds, and save time and money.

Explore real Hawaii with honest advice from locals about the best sights, restaurants, hotels, and lively nightlife. Find out about the country’s history and culture, which will help you understand its art, buildings, and food better. 

Let one of the best Hawaii Travel Books take you to secret gems, hiking trails off the beaten path, and cultural experiences that are one of a kind.

3. Hawaii the Big Island Revealed: The Ultimate Guidebook

The third pick on our list of the best Hawaii travel books will take you on an amazing trip around the Big Island of Hawaii. 

Unlike most big island Hawaii books, this one took over a year to put together. It was compiled by the residents of the island who wanted to learn about every part of the island. 

This guide has a lot of information and thorough plans about the best things the island has to offer and is top-rated among Maui Hawaii travel books.

In a sincere and funny way, the book shows both the best and the worst, helping you avoid bad situations. 

With the Hawaii travel books that tell you about the island’s secret treasures, you can be sure to go on a real, once-in-a-lifetime trip on Hawaii’s Big Island.  

4. Fodor’s Essential Book on Hawaii

Some Books on Hawaii can virtually become your passport to paradise. This guidebook, written by local Fodor’s travel experts, is your best friend whether you want to hike up a hill in Maui, relax on Waikiki Beach, or get lost in a luau. It makes it easier to plan your trip by giving you carefully chosen suggestions, easy-to-read layouts, and beautiful color pictures.

You can get around easily with the help of more than 30 thorough maps, and the beautiful pictures will make you want to travel. Locals can give you honest advice that will help you find the best sights, bars, hotels, and parties which makes it one of the best Hawaii travel guidebooks. 

Find the best things to see and do with the help of the illustrated ultimate experiences book and plan your days well with the help of the best Hawaii Travel Books. Learn about the area’s history and culture to better understand the people, art, food, and music.

5. The Hikers Guide to the Hawaiian Islands

In the exciting world of Hawaii travel books, “The Hikers Guide to the Hawaiian Islands” will show you the true beauty of the Big Island. 

These new eyewitness travel Hawaii guidebooks present the best day hikes and camping trips on the Big Island, Kaua’i, Maui, and Oahu. With 52 trails, this map makes sure you can safely see some of the most beautiful parts of Hawai’i.

Each hike is carefully described with directions to the trailhead, a thorough route description, topographical maps, and important hike information like time, elevation gain, and level of challenge. 

GPS users will like that the trailheads and trail ends have UTM and latitude/longitude data. In the notes part, you can learn about interesting geological features, places of historical interest, and interesting plants and animals along the path.

“The Hikers Guide to the Hawaiian Islands” will help you have a trip you’ll never forget while staying safe making it one of the top travel books in Hawaii. 

6. Hawaii Travel Guide on a Budget

“Hawaii Travel Guide on a Budget” is a step-by-step guide for Hawaii low-cost travel. People come from all over the world to visit the Hawaiian Islands, which are known for their beauty and interesting culture. 

But don’t worry about spending too much; this book will show you how to have a world-class vacation without going broke.

Find out when the best time is to visit Hawaii on a budget and how to get cheap flights to this wonderful place. Learn how to get from one island to another and where to stay that won’t break the bank. 

Explore the many free and inexpensive things to do on each main island to make sure your trip is both fun and cheap.

This must-read guide will show you where to find the best deals, how to save money, and how to book your dream trip without worrying about money. 

With these Hawaii travel books and price plans in hand, you can have a great time in Hawaii without breaking the bank.

7. Lonely Planet Best Travel Book on Hawaii

With “Lonely Planet Hawaii the Big Island 5 (Travel Guide),” you can go on an amazing trip to Hawaii in the comfort of your home. This ultimate trip companion is your key to the best and most up-to-date information setting it a class apart from other general Hawaii travel books. This guidebook will help you see the heart of Hawaii’s Big Island, from stargazing on Mauna Kea to diving in Kealakekua Bay.

Find color maps and pictures all over the book to make your trip more interesting. With highlights and plans, you can make your trip fit your wants and hobbies. 

You can save time and money by using expert tips to get around like a local and avoid crowds. With honest reviews for all prices, you can find the best places to eat, sleep, see sights, and shop, as well as secret gems that other guidebooks often miss.

From Kailua-Kona to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, this thorough guidebook covers both famous and off-the-beaten-path destinations, making it the perfect addition to your collection of Hawaii travel books.

Our Final Words

Hawaii travel books serve as indispensable companions for anyone seeking to explore the enchanting wonders of these Pacific islands. 

From pristine beaches to lush rainforests, from majestic volcanoes to captivating cultural experiences, these guidebooks open the doors to an unforgettable adventure.

With the guidance of local experts and experienced travelers, you can uncover hidden gems, savor authentic cuisine, and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Hawaii. 

These best books about Hawaii not only enhance your travel experience but also ensure that you navigate the islands with confidence, avoiding tourist traps and discovering lesser-known marvels.

Hawaii Travel Books offers a wealth of knowledge, insider tips, and up-to-date information that empowers travelers to make the most of their trip. 

Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, these guides cater to every need, providing detailed itineraries, top recommendations, and budget-saving hacks.

Experience the spirit of Waikoloa Hawaii travel books and embark on a journey that will leave you with cherished memories to last a lifetime.

Best Hawaii Travel Guide Books: Planning a trip to Hawaii :: itinerary for hawaii

So you’ve got Hawaii on your mind!

And you’re almost certain that you’re headed to Hawaii for your next vacation… or thinking pretty hard about it!

So in addition to all the free information available online, which Hawaii travel guidebooks may be worth getting?

Here is the quick list of travel guides to help plan your trip to Hawaii for the best vacation ever:

• Free travel guides from the Hawaii tourism department
• Guide to choosing the best Hawaiian island for you
• Possibly the best selling Hawaii travel guidebooks

Hawaii travel guidebooks with PDF

what to wear in hawaii >> what to wear hiking – what to wear snorkeling

Free travel guides from Hawaii tourism department

Among the best resources for planning your trip to Hawaii just might be the state tourism department!

Although here’s a good spot to find the best short hikes on Oahu. 😉

The Hawaii tourism department of course wants you to visit their state, and they’ll give you plenty of goods reasons to do so!

They have a number of travel guides available that are free. One for each of the islands. The travel guides for the main islands are magazine-style. (That’s for Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island.) For the smaller islands, it’s a smaller brochure. (That’s for Molokai and Lanai.) For the magazine-style travel guides, this means you can expect gorgeous blown up images that will make you dream of Hawaii even more!

You can order the free guides here.

This link will prompt you to download an electronic version of the Hawaii travel guide as a pdf. At the bottom, you can also order your free printed copy of the Hawaii travel guide by mail too. It might take a few weeks to arrive.

If that link doesn’t take you to the right place, try a search on the official Hawaii tourism department’s website .

Best selling Hawaii travel guidebooks

One of the most popular series of Hawaii guidebooks for each of the main Hawaiian islands is this series of guidebooks .

The books in the Hawaii Revealed series give you a lot of information about your chosen island, and you’ll be given loads of ideas of things to do to stay active in Hawaii.

One of the negatives about this series is that you may find recommendations for trespassing in order to get to certain places. It may be best to not follow this kind of advice, or if you do so, do so at your own risk! Hawaii does have a lot of areas that are deemed off limits but seem to be frequently visited by locals, and even some tourists. Use your best judgement, and always respect the land and the people.

That said, it’s very possible that you can have the best Hawaii vacation ever with a Hawaii Revealed book! These guidebooks often receive high praise from visitors.

Read the reviews of the Hawaii Revealed series.

The Hawaii “Revealed” series includes the following islands:

• Big Island (Hawaii Island)

Now, one of the things about guidebooks is that they can be bulky.

What if you want a Hawaii guide, but you don’t want the weight or space required in your carry-on bag that goes with it?

There’s an e-book for that! 😉

There’s a good chance that you’ve heard of the Lonely Planet series of travel guidebooks. Lonely Planet is known for providing high quality and useful information for travelers planning trip to destinations around the world. And they also have some Hawaii travel guides too.

In addition to the print version, these all come with the option of getting the book as a pdf:

• Honolulu, Waikiki, Oahu

There is also the Discover Hawaii Travel Guide if you’ll be visiting more than one island, or you’re still deciding which Hawaiian island to visit. This doesn’t come with a pdf option though.

See all Lonely Planet travel destinations here.

Things to do on Oahu: Kailua Beach

HAPPY TRIP PLANNING WITH YOUR HAWAII GUIDEBOOK!

things to do on oahu | map >> waikiki beach – north shore – east oahu

best short hikes on oahu – best snorkeling spots on oahu

Best shoes for your active vacation

Swimwear for snorkeling and beach.

Top 5 Hawaii Travel Guides (Ranked By Local Travel Planners!)

Hawaii Aloha Travel > Blog > Top 5 Hawaii Travel Guides (Ranked By Local Travel Planners!)

Sure, lots of great travel information is available online (just like on our blog!). Plus, you’re working with a great Hawaii travel planner who provides custom advice and bookings for you. Still, there’s nothing like holding a hard copy of a Hawaii travel guide in your hands. 

Something about flipping through an old-fashioned book makes your upcoming trip seem all the more real. But which travel book is best for a Hawaii vacation? 

Before you zip up that suitcase and head to Hawaii, make sure you leave enough room for a guidebook (or two). Or, better yet, take it with you to read on the plane. You won’t regret taking the time to “read up” on Hawaii!

Hawaii Travel Guides: Our Top Recommendations

1. Hawaii Revealed: The Ultimate Guidebook Bundle by Andrew Doughty

Author Andrew Doughty has written an entire series on Hawaii, and he devotes an entire book to each island (except Lanai and Molokai). Each of his books received either four-and-a-half or five stars on Amazon, and they are the website’s best-selling Hawaii guide books.

His Hawaii travel guides offer a candid, humorous guide to everything there is to see and do on the islands. It’s nice because the individual books give a lot of time and attention to each island. Or, you can splurge on the full bundle and read about every island. 

Explore with Andrew Doughty as he reveals breathtaking trails, secluded beaches, pristine reefs, delicious places to eat, colorful craters, hidden waterfalls and so much more. Every restaurant, activity provider, business, and resort is reviewed personally and anonymously.

Support local booksellers by buying Hawaii Revealed online here . The full collection is also available on Amazon. 

2. Fodor’s Essential Hawaii

Fodor’s is the ultimate name in travel guides, and their Hawaii books are great. They most recently updated their guide in 2022, so it’s nice getting Post-Covid expertise as they share the best of Hawaii. Read all about Honolulu’s urban vibe, Maui’s Road to Hana, Kauai’s beaches, and the Big Island’s volcanoes . Local experts vet every recommendation to ensure you make the most of your time, whether it’s your first trip or your fifth. 

Buy the most up-to-date Fodors Essential Hawaii travel guide at Barnes & Noble here . 

3. Lonely Planet Hawaii

This is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. Learn to surf or lie in the sun on a sugary tropical beach, hike across ancient lava flows and up craggy peaks, or curve down Maui’s lushest coast on the Road to Hana, all with your trusted travel companion.

Lonely Planet offers an all-in-one Hawaii guide, or separate guides that go into detail for each island (Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and Hawaii Island). They were updated in 2022 with new updates coming in summer 2024. 

Shop online at Barnes & Noble for the up-to-date Lonely Planet Hawaii travel guides. 

4. Frommer’s Hawaii by Jeanne Cooper & Natalie Schack 

Frommer’s has updated its Hawaii travel guide for 2024! This great book shows travelers how to plan and execute the adventure of a lifetime in these legendary islands. This classic Frommer’s series includes:

• Exact prices
• Reviews of the best beaches
• Attractions
• Outfitters and hotels in every price range (from hostels to glamorous resorts)
• Dozens of detailed maps

Make sure you’re buying the 2024 (or later!) version of Frommer’s Hawaii when you buy it online . 

5. DK Eyewitness Travel Guide

DK Eyewitness Hawaii Travel Guide is packed with culture and activities. It was updated in 2022 and has lots of great tips that you’ll love reading about. Discover the best attractions and unforgettable sites including beautiful beaches and volcanoes. Plus, access insider tips for everywhere from Honolulu to Waikiki. 

The book includes a guide to great restaurants and cafes featuring island cuisine, or check out the best restaurants, clubs, and bars. It features the best hotels for every budget, plus fun activities for solitary travel or for families and children to make the very best of any visit to Hawaii.

Buy DK Eyewitness Hawaii Travel Guide online here .

Are Hawaii Travel Guides Worth It?

It’s worth the effort to educate yourself with Hawaii travel guides before heading to the islands, especially if your trip is a once-in-a-lifetime vacation. With these trusted guidebooks in tow, you can skip what you want, hit the sites you want, and make the most of your trip!

And of course, be sure to reach out to Hawaii Aloha Travel to get the most customized and up-to-date advice from local advisors who live right here on the islands.

Related posts:

• What is a Hawaiian Lomilomi Massage? If you plan on getting a spa treatment or massage…

• Hawaii Accommodations & Dining
• Hawaii Animals & Nature
• Hawaii Beaches & Ocean
• Hawaii Culture & Happenings
• Hawaii Hiking & Outdoors
• Hawaii Travel & Vacation Info

First Timers Guide to Hawaii: Plan Your Trip Like A Pro

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to make a purchase through my links we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Read about our affiliate policies here .

Share with your friends!

You’ve made the excellent decision to take your first trip to Hawaii. Congratulations! Now it’s time to figure out how to plan your trip. While it can feel daunting because there are so many options to choose from and it’s a BIG vacation, we’ve got you covered. We cover all the need-to-know planning advice for your first trip. After reading this guide, you’ll feel much more confident in planning your dream vacation. 

FAQs About Planning Your First Trip to Hawaii

Have some quick questions about your trip? Get them answered here before we dive into the decisions you need to make.

What island is the best for first-time visitors?

All of the islands offer something a little different and special, so picking the right island for your first trip takes a little research to understand just what is unique to each island. 

Our favorite Hawaiian island to suggest to first-time visitors is Maui. Maui has a bit of something for everyone: from beautiful beaches, excellent snorkeling, a wide range of accommodations, and the best whale watching. We give you our 9 reasons why Maui is the best for first time visitors . 

But it’s not the right island for everyone. Here are some reasons why you might want to pick another island: 

• Oahu: Head to Oahu if you’re looking for more of a cosmopolitan feel. You’ll find nightlife, museums, and plenty of history.
• Kauai: Visit Kauai if you’re looking for a quieter trip, a lush landscape (with a bit more rain), and amazing hiking.
• Big Island: Plan a trip to the Big Island if you’re a volcano enthusiast (Volcanoes National Park is amazing), you want a laid back vibe, or you want to snorkel or dive with manta rays .

Want to see a little more about what makes each island special for first time visitors? We’ve created a video to help you out: 

How much will a trip to Hawaii cost?

Going to Hawaii is not a cheap vacation. While there are ways you can save, food, accommodations, rental cars, and activities are all very expensive. In fact, all four of the main Hawaiian islands rank in the top 10 for most expensive average hotel room cost in the world . Maui hotel rooms are the second most expensive in the world, after the Maldives.

So, a trip is going to be expensive. 

To help you get started calculating your own vacation estimate, we went through the work of calculating the cost of a trip for a family of four. The total for 10 days? $12,000. You can check out the full Hawaii vacation cost calculation as well as places you can save and splurge . 

How many days should you spend on your first trip to Hawaii?

We recommend not rushing any trip to Hawaii, so the more time you can spend, the better! Despite it seeming like an easy domestic trip, it still takes nearly six hours to fly there from the west coast. And you’ll likely have a little jet lag to deal with, as Hawaii is two or three hours behind pacific time (they don’t have daylight savings time so in the winter it’s a 2 hour time difference and in the summer it’s a 3 hour time difference). 

If you plan on visiting one island, we recommend a trip of at least 7 days. This will give you time to get settled, explore, and do some amazing activities, and have downtime to relax. If you plan on visiting two islands, plan for at least 10 days. 

We recommend this itinerary combo as part of our first-time to Hawaii itinerary . 

If you know what island you want to visit, you can dive into more details about exactly how many days you should spend: 

• How many days do you need on Oahu?
• How many days do you need on Maui?
• How many days do you need on Kauai?
• How many days do you need on the Big Island?

A good rule of thumb is if you start speaking Hawaiian Pidgin , you have stayed too long.

Do you need to rent a car in Hawaii?

You’ll most likely want to rent a car in Hawaii to maximize how much you can see. If you’re planning a trip to Oahu and you’re staying in Waikiki, there may be days where your rental car is never used. There’s a lot to do within that 2-mile strip! You can save on expensive hotel parking fees by just renting a car on days that you want to explore the rest of the island. Rental car companies have offices in Waikiki which makes it convenient to pick up a car and take it out for the day. 

If you want to get out and explore Oahu without renting a car, you can join a group circle island tour or book your own private island tour . 

There is also a car share company, Drive Hui, that is available in Waikiki.

On the other islands, it’s a bit trickier to go without a car. To see and explore, you’ll probably want to book one. Public transportation isn’t easy and getting a cab or uber can add up and be inconvenient. We love using Discount Hawaii Car Rental to help us get the best price for a rental car on each island.

Is it easy to island hop?

If you’re hoping to visit one or more Hawaiian island on your trip, you’re in luck! Island hopping is easy. While there are no ferries between islands (aside from a ferry between Maui and Lanai), you can fly between the islands using Hawaiian Airlines, Southwest Airlines, or Mokulele Airlines. 

While the islands in Hawaii are close together and just a quick 30-45 minute flight, your island hopping travel day will still cut into your vacation. Between packing up, the airport process, and checking into accommodations on your new island, this can easily take up half a day of your vacation.

Related read: Get all the details you need to know about island hopping in Hawaii.  

What is the best time of year to go to Hawaii?

There is truly no bad time to visit Hawaii. With temperatures that are warm year-round, you’ll be in tank tops and shorts 12 months out of the year. But while there is no bad time to visit, we think Hawaii is best experienced during the shoulder seasons: in April/May and September/October. That’s when we find the optimal mix of good costs, good weather, and the smallest crowds. 

Let’s dive into that a bit more or see our Best Time to Visit Hawaii article for details.

Weather: 

While we did say that the temperatures are warm year-round, Hawaii does still get rain. And while you are heading to a beach destination, you probably want to minimize your chances of rain. As you can see from the chart below, Hawaii experiences peak rain from November through March. Though to be fair, rain varies on different sides of each island — we are showing average rainfall for one popular visitor destination on each island.

Visiting when there are fewer crowds can make for a more enjoyable vacation. Boat tours aren’t sold out days or weeks in advance and beach parking is much easier to come by.  Trying to find a time when fewer people visit (or the off season) isn’t difficult to do. The Hawaii Tourism Authority does a wonderful job of tracking visitor arrivals to Hawaii . 

From their data, it’s clear that the peak times for crowds are November – January, March,  and June – August. So if you want to visit while there are fewer people on the islands, plan a trip in February, April , May, September, or October. 

Cost: 

Traveling during the shoulder period could mean the difference between getting a hotel room for $800 or getting that same room for $400. Costs fluctuate widely depending on when you’re going. If you want your travel dollars to stretch as far as possible, avoid the summer, spring break period, and the holiday period (Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year). 

Related read: This is the worst time to visit Hawaii (we really try to avoid this period if possible!)

Do you need a travel agent to help you plan your first trip to Hawaii?

We sometimes love enlisting the help of a travel agent for our adventures. But to be honest, we haven’t found great travel agents for Hawaii vacations. Most travel agents don’t specialize in Hawaii (but we do). They have some basic recommendations, but can’t speak in depth about different accommodation options, activity operators, and restaurants. So we don’t recommend using a travel agent and you definitely don’t need one to book your dream vacation. 

If you’re not sure where to start, check out our island guides. They walk you through all the need to know information for each island:

Oahu Guide Maui Guide Big Island Guide Kauai Guide

And if you want even more in-depth information on how to plan your days to sightsee, check out our itineraries :

“I purchased the Kauai itinerary and it is awesome! I had no idea how much work and information you guys really put into it and I am so excited for our trip now!!” – Kayla R.

Are there any special entry requirements to enter Hawaii?

There are no special requirements to enter Hawaii. If you are coming from outside of the US, you will need to show your passport to enter the USA and Hawaii. If you are traveling from within the US (the mainland) you won’t need to show a passport to enter Hawaii.

Currently, there are no COVID restrictions or entry requirements for Hawaii . 

How far in advance should you plan your trip to Hawaii?

If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii, the earlier you plan, the better. While there always might be last-minute deals that pop up, they are few and far between. Booking in advance means you can shop around for the best hotel or vacation rental price. 

We suggest planning six months in advance for your trip. You can usually secure great accommodations at a great price and a good rental car price. And a tip: if you book with Discount Hawaii Car Rental , you can always cancel your reservation and rebook if prices drop. 

When you’re planning activities and restaurant reservations, try to make them a couple of months in advance, so you can book exactly what you want. Be sure to check out our favorite tours and activities to help you narrow down your search .

Is a trip to Hawaii worth it? 

Whether a trip is worth it is certainly up to personal preference, but we think a trip to Hawaii is worth it! With year-round good weather and amazing sights, this isn’t an ordinary trip. Whether you’re coming to experience the year-round humpback whale migration, hike to the top of a volcano, snorkel with Manta Rays, or swim in a waterfall, there is truly so much to do here. 

And learning about Hawaiian culture and history makes this so much more than a beautiful beach vacation. 

First Time to Hawaii Planning Timeline

Now that you’ve gotten some first time to Hawaii FAQs answered, it’s time to dive into booking your trip. Here are the steps to walk through as you’re making your decision:

1. Decide when you’ll go

We love the shoulder season of April/May and September/October for fewer clouds, crows, and cheaper costs. But remember that really anytime is great. So find a time when you can book a long enough chunk of time for your trip and move onto step 2!

2. Decide how long to go for

We meet travelers all the time who are on vacation and frantically trying to figure out how to extend their trip. So if you can swing a few extra days, do it! Plan to spend at least 7 days if you’re visiting one island or at least 10 days if you want to visit two islands. There is so much to see and it’s a long trip out.

3. Choose your island(s)

Now onto the biggest hurdle for most first time visitors: picking the right island for you. This is a big decision and while all of the islands offer something special you need to decide what type of vacation you really want to have. Going to Oahu is going to end up being a very different vacation than a trip to Kauai. 

If you’re struggling to choose an island, see our tips earlier on in the article. 

4. Book your flights

Start your search for flights. All of the major airlines fly to Hawaii, so you should have plenty of options to choose from. The airports (and airport codes) on each island are:

• Oahu: Honolulu Airport (HNL)
• Maui: Kahului Airport (OGG) and Kapalua Airport (JHM), used for inter-island trips
• Island of Hawai’i (Big Island: Hilo International Airport (ITO) and Kona International Airport (KOA)
• Kauai: Lihue Airport (LIH)

If you’re visiting more than one island, check out our inter-island travel article for tips on how to island hop seamlessly.

Consider being greeted upon arrival with a traditional Hawaii lei greeting. It is a fun way to start your Hawaii vacation.

5. Pick a place to stay

Once you’ve picked an island, there are so many options for accommodations. The first decision to make: do you want a vacation rental or a hotel? There are pros and cons to both options. If you’re planning to eat in a lot, a vacation rental can save you money with a kitchen. But you’re likely going to miss out on a great resort pool. 

Check out all of our pros and cons with our Airbnb vs Hotel article . 

6. Figure out whether you want to rent a car

For most vacations, you will probably want to rent a car. If you’re hoping to see a lot of the island that you visit, a car is necessary. Public transportation options aren’t usually very convenient and getting a cab or uber can add up to be quite expensive. 

The exception to this is Oahu. If you’re staying in Waikiki, there are plenty of things to keep you busy for days in a row so renting a car for your entire trip isn’t necessary. And when you do want to head out and explore, there are car rental options available right from Waikiki. 

When you’re ready to book a car, we recommend Discount Hawaii Car Rental . We’ve saved thousands of dollars using them for our car rentals. They work with major carriers and don’t require pre-payment, so it’s a flexible and ideal way to save on your car rental. 

7. Choose some of your can’t-miss activities

There is truly so much to do on each island, and even if you were staying for a month, you wouldn’t be able to do it all. So making a list is important. 

Are you excited to hike a volcano? Snorkel from a boat? Zipline above a canopy of trees? Get an up-close view of humpback whales?

Our Tours & Activities section will help you find our favorite activities on each island. 

To help you get started our cheat sheets will give you a few of the ca n’t-miss experiences on each island. 

Additional Hawaii resources:

• 40 Things to Do on Oahu
• 5 Can’t-Miss Big Island Activities
• 68 Things to Do on Maui with Kids
• 21 Things to Do on Lanai

8. Make some fun dinner reservations

If you’re coming during the peak season, getting a few dinner reservations on the books is important. And even if you’re not, if there’s any place you feel like you need to eat, getting your reservation made early ensures you won’t miss out. Our cheat sheets offer some dining recommendations and our itinerary has a Quick Hits section with all of our favorite restaurants . 

9. Get packing

You don’t need to bring much with you on your beach vacation. But make sure you have the essentials by using our packing list. Yes, you’ll want to pack reef-safe sunscreen and a jacket!

Check out our full packing list here . 

And our favorite item to pack? Our itineraries ! They make your trip planning and experience so much easier. With excursion days to take you around the island and a list of our favorite restaurants and beaches, this is one thing you’ll definitely want with you. 

“I can’t tell you how much we have appreciated your effort with the guidebook.  We saw things this past week we would never have known to look for.  These hidden gems were amazing from the black sand beach all the way up to Pololu lookout and all the small shops along the way.  We leave tomorrow and I wanted to say how much we used and enjoyed your book.  Thank you so much.” – Chris P.

First-Time Visitors Tips While in Hawaii

Once you’ve made it to Hawaii (hooray!) we have some tips to help make your time in the islands even more memorable. 

Understand the geography

While getting to know the geography of the islands might seem a little ridiculous for your vacation, it’s important because it will affect the weather you experience and what you do while on vacation. 

The main thing to know is that each island has a windward and a leeward side. The windward side of each island faces the tradewinds. You’ll get more rain and wind, but you’ll also get lush landscapes (thanks to all of that rain!). On Maui, Hana is a famous spot on the windward side. The landscape is lush and the waterfalls are beautiful. But it also rains a lot and the ocean currents are very strong. 

The leeward side of each island is more protected from the wind and rain and you will have drier, sunnier weather. Most of the famously beautiful beaches you plan on visiting are located on the leeward side of the island.

For example, on Maui, the leeward side of the island includes some great beaches, like Wailea Beach and Ka’anapali Beach. 

When you understand the island’s geography, you can better prepare for what to expect. If you’re looking for a lush, jungle experience, with waterfalls and greenery head east to the windward side. If you’re looking to beat the rain and get some sun, the west or leeward side is your best bet.

Get out and explore

The beaches in Hawaii are incredible. But there’s a lot more to explore on each of the islands. Some things you might want to add to your list include:

• Night snorkeling or diving with Manta Rays on the Big Island
• Seeing the sunrise or sunset from Haleakala Crater on Maui
• Watching the big wave surfers on the north shore of Oahu
• Viewing the stunning cliffs of the NaPali coast on Kauai
• Hanging out with humpback whales during their annual migration to Hawaii

This was just a taste, but there is so much more. If you want to view the highlights of each island, check out our cheat sheets .

Free Download!

Hawaiian island cheat sheets.

Sign up & we’ll send you our island cheat sheets so you can get to know the islands like the back of your hand!

We’ll share 4 can’t-miss activities on each island, a map with the main sights in town, & famous local grindz (eats)!

where should we send your free Island Cheat Sheets?

By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy . We hate spam and promise to keep your email safe. Unsubscribe at any time.

Not only do these island cheat sheets highlight the top 4 can’t miss sights and activities on each island, you’ll also get tips on where to stay, a map of the island with the main sights, towns, and airport locations, the top places for food on each island, and more.

They’re designed to make kicking off your trip planning even easier. Grab them for free and start planning !

Try the local food

One of the treats about visiting a new place is the opportunity to try new, local foods that you might not eat back home. There are a few things you should consider trying while you’re here:

• Fresh, locally caught fish: If you’re a seafood fan, don’t miss out on the fresh fish. You can enjoy it at either a restaurant or from a fish market. You’ll see options like Mahi Mahi, Ono, Opah, Ahi, and more.
• Locally grown produce: Enjoy dragon fruit, coconut, lilikoi, pineapples, locally produced honey and more. We love doing farm tours, but if that’s not part of your vacation itinerary, try a farm-to-table restaurant. You’ll get to sample some island flavors while supporting the agriculture industry here.
• Traditional Hawaiian food: You don’t need to go to a luau to sample some traditional Hawaiian dishes. Look for dishes like poi (taro that has been pounded into a paste), laulau (meat wrapped and cooked in taro leaves), kalua pig (slow-roasted pork cooked in an underground oven), and poke (diced, raw fish that is wonderfully flavored). If you are looking to try traditional Hawaiian food at a luau, check out our list of the best luaus in Hawaii . 
• Shave ice: Not shaved ice. You may think that this is like a snowcone, but it couldn’t be further from it. Soft fluffy ice shavings that are flavored with different syrups and creative flavor combinations. You might also have the add-on of fruit and ice cream. It’s so, so good. Don’t forget to check out our five favorite shave ice spots on Kauai . 

Snorkel (safely!)

Living here, we love spending our days in the ocean. There is nothing like diving into the warm, tropical waters and being greeted by colorful fish, turtles, octopi, and more. But if it’s your first time snorkeling in Hawaii, there are some essential details you should know.

Understand safety risks

Snorkeling may look easy, but water conditions, physical conditions, and more come into play. It’s not always as safe as it looks — drowning is the number one cause of visitor death in Hawaii . Before you go out, review the safety tips to make sure you’re doing what you can to keep yourself safe.

There are a couple ways to check the ocean conditions daily. You can check Hawaii Beach Safety for daily ocean conditions for select beaches on all four main islands. 

If you’re headed to Maui, we love the daily Snorkel Reports from the Snorkel Store. It helps us to see what areas have the best snorkeling conditions for the day and also gives us warnings about large swells that are coming in and affecting safety and visibility. 

Use good gear

Hear me out on this one. You’ll find a number of blogs telling you to pick up a cheap set of fins and a mask from an ABC store or Target once you arrive. There are a few reasons we don’t suggest that.

First, safety. Well fitting gear (fins that stay on and a mask that doesn’t leak) is important to keep you safe.

Second, it’s a significantly more enjoyable experience to snorkel in gear that fits well and is easy to use. This was apparent when we were trying to teach our preschooler to snorkel. The cheap gear didn’t cut it but once we got him in a good mask, he was off!

Third, buying cheap gear just adds to the already full landfill here.

That’s not to say you need to shell out and buy expensive gear. If you plan to snorkel many times, even after this trip to Hawaii, it’s worth it to buy good snorkeling gear. We have sets listed on our recommendations page .

Otherwise, renting snorkeling gear is a great option. The shop staff can help you find gear that is the right fit for you. And if you find that it doesn’t work right, pop in and switch it out for a different rental set.

Go to the best places

All snorkeling spots are not created equal. Some spots on the island naturally have a more vibrant reef and are home to more fish and sea life. Other spots may be more affected by ocean swells at various times of the year.

On our guide pages we list out the best snorkeling spots on each island. You’ll want to check these pages out before hopping in the water:

Oahu Travel Guide Maui Travel Guide Big Island Travel Guide Kauai Travel Guide

And if you’re looking for the best snorkeling spots in Hawaii by month , we have you covered.

Take a snorkeling tour

While we love snorkeling from the beach and we do it often, going on a snorkeling tour is a really special experience. On a good snorkeling tour, you’ll learn about the ocean, the sea life, and be taken to some cool spots that aren’t easily accessible from the beach. Plus, you’ll be able to see the islands from the water, giving you a different perspective and appreciation for their beauty.

We have a full list of our favorite activity providers and tours on each island, but here are a few that are incredibly special:

• Molokini Sunrise Snorkel with Kai Kanani : beat the crowds to Molokini with this special sunrise snorkeling tour leaving directly from the beach in Makena/Wailea.
• Na Pali Coast Snorkeling with Holo Holo Charters : Cruise up the coast of Kaua’i and off the island of Niihau for a full day of snorkeling.
• Power Raft snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay with Captain Zodiac : Head to Kealakekua Bay and the Captain Cook monument for the best snorkeling on the island.

Only use reef-safe sunscreen

Before you throw your favorite brand of sunscreen into your bag, stop. Hawaii has rules in place to help protect the reef and sea life that are so important. One of those rules is around the type of sunscreen you can use. Sunscreens containing chemicals oxybenzone and octinoxate are no longer sold in Hawaii. These chemicals have been found to contribute to coral reef bleaching.

You can check out a full list of our favorite reef-safe sunscreens and make sure you’re only using legal sunscreen in Hawaii.

Understand the rules protecting sea life

When you’re snorkeling and enjoying the crystal clear water, it’s important to keep in mind that you want to make as little impact on sea life as possible. Stay at least 10 feet away from turtles while snorkeling. You’re required to stay at least 50 feet away from Monk Seals. And if you see spinner dolphins, you’ll need to give them 50 yards of space.

Learn about the culture

Hawaii is a unique US state for many reasons but one thing that is important to understand is that Hawaii had a long and rich history before becoming part of the US. Learning a little about the culture and the history will enhance your stay and give you new appreciation for these amazing islands.

There are plenty of ways to learn more about Hawai’i while you’re here. Consider visiting museums. On Oahu we love visiting the Bishop Museum and Iolani Palace.

You can also visit heritage sites like Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park on the Big Island. You can find a list of heritage sites to visit on the Hawaii Tourism Authority website .

Let us Help you Visit Hawaii for the First Time

We’ve helped thousands of people plan and experience their best vacation to Hawaii. Make your trip planning that much easier and let us help you have the trip you’ve been dreaming about. 

“My husband and I recently took our very first trip to Hawaii (and first trip without our 3 young children) to celebrate our 10 year anniversary. We stayed in Maui and used your Maui Classic Itinerary. It made planning our trip so easy! We never had to worry about driving directions, finding bathrooms or parking lots, where we were going to eat a meal, the best spots to spend our day, or even details like when to leave to make the Haleakala sunrise and what trails to hit afterwards. Every single day of our trip was just about perfect, and your guide was a big determining factor for that. We even used it up until the last hour of our trip to find a good beach and great food in Paia Town before we had to be at the airport! So we just wanted to say THANK YOU for helping make this a very special trip that we will remember for the rest of our lives!” – Adam and Alyssa

Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary

Maui wayfinder itinerary, kauai wayfinder itinerary.

Cruising Hawaii Guide

Big island wayfinder itinerary.

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

Similar Posts

The Best Hawaiian Island for Snorkeling (hands down the best)

Tried and Tested: The 6 Best Manta Ray Night Snorkel (or Dive) in Kona

Mauna Kea Stargazing: How to DIY and the 3 Best Tours

Maui in February? Here’s Everything You Need To Know About Visiting

Road to Hana Etiquette: 7 Tips for First-Time Visitors

Hawaii in September: Is It The Best Time For Your Trip

This is the most comprehensive Hawaii vacation planning resource on the internet!

TOP RESOURCES

• Join Our Newsletter
• Hawaii Itineraries
• Tours & Activities
• Top Travel Gear
• Discount Car Rentals

ISLAND GUIDES

• Planning A Trip To Hawaii
• Oahu Island Guide
• Maui Island Guide
• Hawai’i (Big Island) Guide
• Kauai Island Guide

Your use of the information provided in our Content, Itineraries, Site, and Services is for your informational purposes only and is subject to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. Your use of the information described in, your participation in activities presented in, and/or your engagement of any Travel Service Providers presented in our Content, Itineraries, Site, and/or Services may carry the risk of illness, bodily injury, disability, death, or property damage. You voluntarily and freely assume all risks and dangers that may occur pursuant to your access, use, purchase, or participation in any information, activity, good, or service described in our Content, Itineraries, Site, and Services or provided by any Travel Service Providers.

Don’t start planning without our cheat sheets

You’ll get:

• 4 can’t-miss activities on each island,
• a map with the main sights in town,
• and famous local grindz (eats)!

Review Cart

No products in the cart.

Hawaii Top Things to Know Explore Now →

Kauai Guide

Big island guide, essential travel tips.

• Which Island to Visit? →
• Best Time to Visit →
• Hawaii Must See & Do →
• Hawaii Itineraries →

Travel Information

• Hawaii Weather →
• What to Pack? →
• Best Hawaii Island to Visit →
• Hawaii Safety Tips →

Hawaii Resources

• Hawaii Airports & Terminals →
• Hawaii Maps →
• Hawaii Travel News & Blog →
• Hawaii Visitor FAQ →

View our Hawaii Visitor Guides →

Hawaii Accommodations →

Lodging by island.

• Oahu Lodging
• Maui Lodging
• Big Island Lodging
• Kauai Lodging

Where to Stay

• Where to stay on Oahu →
• Where to stay on Maui →
• Where to stay on Big Island →
• Where to stay on Kauai →

When to Visit

• Best Time to Visit Oahu →
• Best Time to Visit Maui →
• Best Time to Visit the Big Island →
• Best Time to Visit Kauai →

Explore Hawaii Hotel Deals & Specials Search Now

• Hawaii Things to See & Do →

Tours by Island

• Big Island Tours
• Kauai Tours

Hawaii Attractions

• Oahu Attractions →
• Maui Attractions →
• Big Island Attractions →
• Kauai Attractions →

Hawaii Must See & Do

• Oahu Must See & Do →
• Maui Must See & Do →
• Big Island Must See & Do →
• Kauai Must See & Do →

Explore all Hawaii Tours Search Now

Hawaii Visitor Guides

Choose between our hawaii intro guide, our highlights guide, or our more detailed hawaii deluxe essential guide.

2024 Hawaii Visitor Guides

Eight unique islands., six destinations to explore., one remarkable experience.

Hawaii provides you with six unique islands to choose from, four of which we cover in detail in our three  2024 Hawaii Travel Planner & Visitor Guides due to their popularity with travelers like yourself. Once you know which island (or islands) best suits you, then you can really begin to plan.

Don't miss out on our inside Hawaii knowledge, tips, and recommendations . In these Hawaii Travel Guides, we'll help you select an island, or islands, for your trip if you're still undecided. If you already know which island(s) you're visiting, excellent; we've included a lot of pertinent information for Kauai, Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island of Hawaii that should help you plan the perfect trip! Our travel guides are updated twice a year (or more) to ensure they're entirely up to date with the latest Hawaii details and information.

Below, we'll review in more detail what our updated Hawaii Travel guides include...

— article continued below —

Individual Island Guides

Highlights & essential visitor guide for each island, statewide guides, 2024 hawaii travel guide & visitor planner.

Grab your copy today  and take advantage of our  destination expert's Hawaii insights . We've just updated and released our latest three Hawaii Travel Planner & Visitor Guides for 2024. These new travel guides contain over 40 visual pages (Intro version),  over 60 visual pages (Highlights version),   and over 100 visual pages (Deluxe Essential version)  of pertinent Hawaii travel information  to assist in planning your perfect Hawaii trip.

The islands of  Kauai ,  Oahu ,  Maui , and the  Big Island  are covered in detail. A complete table of contents is additionally included within each travel guide. The top attractions are included for each island (top 5 in the Intro guide, top 9 in the Highlights guide, and top 11 in the Deluxe guide). The Highlights and Deluxe planner also include our Best Places to find Authentic Hawaii food guide.

- 40+ Pages -

- 70+ pages -, - 100+ pages -.

Where to Stay in Hawaii Guides

Hawaii is a destination that attracts a unique mix of tourists from all over the world. There are  resorts and hotels  all over the major islands, but there are also many free-standing hotels and vacation rentals, which allow you to choose from a wide range of accommodations. We provide a  list of these top favorable destinations by island , according to the popularity of each area.

Our  Where to Stay guides  will highlight the  best places to stay in Hawaii  and the best parts of each island. Hawaii offers several favorable areas for different types of vacationers on each unique island.

Hawaii Deluxe Essential Guide Only

Details on Hawaii's Weather & Climate

Hawaii weather is known for being rather sporadic, but that doesn't have to leave you guessing what to expect.

Know what you're likely to experience weather-wise on your trip by reading through our Hawaii Weather summary. Our weather information additionally includes a rainfall map , a precipitation chart (for each month of the year), and a high/low-temperature graph/chart so you can plan accordingly for your trip.

We've also included the best links of where to check the daily forecast for the most accurate weather outlook.

Highlights Guide

Deluxe Guide

When to Visit & Seasonal Hotel Rates

Wondering what the hotel prices will be during the weeks of your visit? Look no further, we've got you covered with our Hawaii Hotel Price averages graphic that provides insight into what pricing you can expect at different times throughout the year.

We've also covered the Best Time to Visit , including a graph showing the monthly visitor statistics for each major island.

Essential Guide

BEST TIME to... Hawaii FAQ

When is the best time for good weather? How about when to avoid crowds? Or when exactly is the best time to book your trip to Hawaii? We've covered each of these questions and several others in our Best Time to.... Hawaii FAQ .

Discover which time of the year is the best time to visit for local Hawaii festivals and events , or when hiking conditions are prime for hitting Hawaii's incredible plethora of trails. We've also covered when to go whale watching , take a Hawaii cruise , and much more.

Individual Hawaii Islands in Detail

Each of the four major Hawaiian Islands is covered in our Hawaii Travel Guides, including Kauai , Oahu , Maui , and the Big Island of Hawaii .

A general introduction to each island is also provided, along with our recommendations for each island . If you haven't decided on which island(s) to visit yet, these sections should help you narrow down your choices to a favorite or two.

Detailed Overview of Each Island's Regions

Learn more about each of the regions of Hawaii's major islands in our detailed region section for each respective major Hawaiian Island.

This section covers the basic geography of each island, the top attractions within each region, along with tips on the best nearby attractions to visit.

Highlights Guides

Hawaii Road & Beach Maps

Our travel guides wouldn't be complete without detailed high-resolution Hawaii Road Maps for each island. For Maui, we've added a bonus road map for the Road to Hana (Hana Highway), the premier drive on the island.

We've additionally included Beach Maps for each island, so you can quickly and easily determine which beaches are best to visit during your trip; not to mention which are closest to your hotel.

Discover Hawaii's Top Attractions

For each of the major four islands, we've covered their top attractions  in detail, including how to visit and where each attraction is located on the island.

Photos and details are provided for each top attraction, so you can quickly decide which sights , beaches , and/or hiking trails are right for you during your visit.

Top Local Grindz - Best Eats

Sun, sand, and surf are not all Hawaii is known for. Sure, we travel to islands for a relaxing time that will incorporate all these things, but you  gotta eat too , right? Hawaii certainly doesn’t let us down on that issue. Hawaii offers some of the  best culinary experiences  in the world.

In this section, we cover some of our  favorite places for authentic Hawaii food on each island , the best 'ono grindz (delicious food) that can be found in Hawaii.

Select a Hawaii Travel Guide

Terms of use & disclosures.

This website's use is your expressly conditioned acceptance of the terms, conditions, and disclaimers found within our Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability page without any modifications. Your use of this website constitutes your acceptance of all the terms , conditions, and disclaimers posted herein. If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. We also receive a small commission from travel partners for some of the links found on this website. All partners and related links comply with our Advertising Disclosures . For example, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. These links do not cost you anything and help provide the necessary funding to maintain this website. Mahalo!

Download our Hawaii Map Packet

Includes most major attractions, all major routes, airports, and a chart with estimated driving times for each respective island..

Our popular Summary Guidesheets are now included.

Download your copy of our... 2024 Hawaii Travel Guide

Hawaii-Guide.com has been featured in...

Hawaii Visitor Information...

Try out our new AI Powered Search & Chatbot →

Plus & Premium Benefits

Donate and remove ALL the ads

Mahalo for your support!

By donating to our small business, you accept and acknowledge the donation terms . Mahalo!

Maui Travel Guidebooks

Updated: August 3, 2023 May 27, 2022

Maui > Top Tens > Guidebooks

Maui guidebooks – the good & bad.

We’ve put together a list of the top-selling 6 Maui guidebooks to help you enjoy your next trip here. Some have great restaurant info, activities, and more, and others take liberties by sharing culturally sensitive spots that upset the local community.

The following list shows the best and worst Maui guidebooks online and links to find them at the lowest prices.   Prices updated June 2022.

The most recently updated Maui Guidebook, This Moon Maui Handbook is a great resource for those looking to vacation on Maui for the first time or the tenth. It has thorough, well-written information about the most popular and lesser-known spots on Maui, Molokai & Lanai.

New: $16.99   Best: $11.07   Kindle: $2.99

Buy moon maui now, the maui foodist bucket list.

After years of visiting Maui , author Iver Jon Margerison has compiled a list of his favorite eating, drinking, and interactive food experiences on Maui.  There is something for everyone!

New: $13.34    Best: $7.17

Buy maui foodist bucket list, lonely planet maui.

This full-color guide reveals the island’s beaches, sights, and off-the-beaten-track adventures so you can discover the real Maui.

New: $14.59    Best: $10.45

Buy lonely planet maui 5, fodor’s maui.

It’s easy to plan a vacation for any interest using the book’s Top Experiences and Great Itineraries sections and tips for families and for weddings and honeymoons.

New: $13.57    Best: $4.96    Kindle: $10.44

Buy fodor’s maui, maui trailblazer.

A guide for families and outdoor adventurers alike, Maui Trailblazer 2022 covers all of the islands and includes day trips to the neighboring islands of Molokai, Lanai, and Molokini.

New: $19.95    Best: $19.95    Kindle: $9.95

Buy maui trailblazer, maui revealed.

OUR LEAST RECOMMENDED MAUI BOOK!

Best-selling author, Andrew Doughty, shares local secrets of an island so lush and diverse that many visitors never realize all that it has to offer. We don’t like recommending it because most locals we know don’t agree with what is shared in this book.

New: $17.99    Best: $12.72    Kindle: $14.49

Buy maui revealed, maui moon:   including molokai & lanai.

Kyle Ellison’s Moon Maui Handbook is a great resource for those looking to vacation on Maui for the first time or the tenth. With thorough, well-written information about the most popular and lesser-known spots on Maui, the Moon Maui guide may be your best bet for well-known activities as well as some you haven’t even considered. We particularly enjoyed the “ Best of Maui in 10 Days “, which gives you a realistic and well-paced agenda of what to do and see on your vacation, including time for relaxation , exploring the Road to Hana, and even the best places to grab brunch. You definitely get the feeling Kyle has followed his own 10-day agenda many times and provides great suggestions to begin and end your trip on the perfect note.  If you’re into a more go-with-the-flow approach to your Hawaiian vacation, Moon Maui also outlines the best attractions so you can decide when, where, and what to do based on your interests, including the Best Beaches, Best Snorkeling & Diving, Best Surfing, Best Hikes Best Outdoor Adventures, Best Historical & Cultural Sites and Best Activities for Honeymooners.  Since many vacationers only pass through Upcountry Maui on the dark, early morning drive to reach the top of Haleakala Volcano, it’s refreshing to see such a thorough section about this lesser-visited, beautiful area of the island, including nature trails, yoga studios , spas, farms, gardens, and historical sights.  You can definitely tell the author has spent lots of time exploring both the current and historical gems of the island, including those on neighbor islands Lana’i and Molokai, and offers little-known tips and useful information that Maui residents have mastered over the years. While the black and white photos that make up most of the book may not look as pretty as some of the other guidebooks, the information is what’s important, and we definitely recommend it for an in-depth look into life in paradise.

Maui Revealed:   The Ultimate Guidebook

Of course, you’ve probably already heard about this blue book called Maui Revealed The Ultimate Guidebook . Part of a series of books on all of the Hawaiian Islands , Maui Revealed is a thorough guide to the island and its many once-secret locations. This guidebook is detailed and covers the entire island of Maui. We highly suggest, when following this book, to stay out of areas that are private property. Maui Revealed  will tell you about these spots and only briefly mention the illegality of going there. Many local people hate this book because it explains where to go near their homes to find the best beaches, waterfalls, and views. With accurate maps of the  Road to Hana , Maui Restaurants, and descriptions with directions of the  Best Maui Beaches , the Ultimate Guidebook is a helpful companion for your Maui vacation.

Maui Trailblazer:   Where to Hike, Snorkel, Paddle, Surf, Drive (Hawaiian Hiking Guide)

A quality guide to Maui for both family visitors as well as adventurous outdoor vacationers. The Maui trailblazer covers in detail the best spots to hike, snorkel, surf, boogie board, kayak, as well as restaurants and Maui accommodations. In the kid’s section, the Maui Trailblazer also focuses on families with young children.

Frommer’s Maui

Refreshingly candid about what is touristy and what is not, Frommer’s honestly goes over Maui with a fine comb. With information on Maui and Molokai, Frommer’s does not disappoint. This Maui guidebook goes over the Road to Hana mile by mile, much like Maui Revealed. The hotel reviews are in-depth and extremely helpful. A major plus to this Travel Book is that it’s updated every year so you know the descriptions are accurate.

Fodor’s Maui:   with Molokai & Lanai

Fodor’s is also an expert on travel and it shows with this quality publication. It goes over the neighboring islands of Molokai and Lanai as well as Maui to help you get the most out of the county. The Maui Beach maps and places to stay in Maui are helpful. This guide is smaller and easier to read than the others.

This is a well-written Maui Travel Book with expert advice on finding the best Maui beaches, most romantic spots, and excellent places to eat. This guide goes over lodging as well as activities for any budget range.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Written from Haiku, Pukalani & Paia

Whale Watching on Oahu

Whale watching on maui.

• 808-667-6165

Best Maui Guidebooks - HOP to it

Coming to Maui and need to do a little research? The guidebooks presented here are all fantastic. For some visitors, a general guidebook is perfect, for others a specialized guidebook focusing on hiking or beaches might be better. We'll include a little of each in this article. At the bottom of the list, we'll also include a link to an online guide "book" that we think is outstanding. In fact, we use it more than the books currently lining our bookshelves. Just remember, the public libraries on Maui are stocked with guidebooks. For $10, you can get a 3-month visitors card and check out all of these books!

Fodor's Maui Fodor's has a long history of producing excellent travel guides. Fodor's Maui does a great job of covering the basics: where to stay, where to eat, what to do. But the really nice thing about this book is a series of sections that gives historical backgrounds on such things as hulas and luaus, as well a nice fauna guide for plants and a mini-fish guide for what to expect to see while snorkeling. For a complete fish guide, we posted one here . Fodor's guides always have excellent maps and photos. Fodor's Maui is no exception.

Frommer's Maui Our preference for a place like Maui is to have the guidebook broken out first by area/region, for example Lahaina, then show the lodging, restaurants and activities fall in that particular area. Frommer's Maui , though, divides their book by the activity, meaning you'll see the header "Lodging," then under that header it's broken down by region. Still, everyone has their own preferences. The information Frommer's does provide is deep. The maps and photos are nice. The section on the history of Maui is excellent, in fact it's the best of all of the books listed here. The " movies made in Hawaii " is a fun list.

Hiking Maui: The Valley Isle This one is a classic. If hiking is your sole reason for coming to Maui, it's a no brainer that Hiking Maui: The Valley Isle should be your book of choice. It's easily the most in-depth and well researched Maui hiking book. That said, if you use this one, confirm your hike on Google first as it's been a few years since the last update.

Lonely Planet: Maui / Discover Maui We always appreciate Lonely Planet guidebooks. To a book, they are easy to follow and the way they break down their sections makes sense. For Maui, they have two distinct guides. First is their complete Maui guidebook simply titled Maui . It covers what you expect in a multi-purpose guidebook... hotels/restaurants/activities. Like all Lonely Planet books, the pictures are vibrant and the content is well written. While their other book, Discover Maui , does cover lodging and restaurants, it's to a much lesser extent. Instead, it focuses on activities and adventures. If you already know where you're staying, we recommend this one. You can't go wrong with either book, though.

Maui Trailblazer For a general "adventure" guide, this is our favorite book. When we first moved to Oahu, the Oahu edition is the book we chose. When we eventually moved here to Maui, it was again the first (and only) book we purchased. Maui Trailblazer is easy to read and well organized. It gives clear directions for hiking, surfing and general road trips. It also includes day-trip guides for Molokai and Lanai.

MauiGuidebook.com Easily our favorite online Maui resource, this website is informative, well written and fun. If you're looking an interesting hike or a "hidden" beach, mauiguidebook.com will point you in the right direction. Being online, it's able to stay current. The photos are excellent. ( MauiGuidebook.com )

You may be asking, "Where is Maui Revealed ?" For the uninitiated, Maui Revealed is probably the most popular Maui Guidebook. It IS excellent, to a point. But it does things we just can't condone. Sure it points to "secret" places, but often at the cost of crossing private and sacred lands. If you use this book, please be respectful of your surroundings.

Did we miss one? Do have a favorite Maui guidebook? Let us know in the comments below. Mahalo!

Related Posts

Best rainy day activities on maui.

While Wailea, Kihei, and Lahaina tend to be dry pretty much year-round, there are still days when it rains. Normally, the rains come in the form of sh...

10 Maui Money Saving Tips

Living on Maui ain't cheap. But visiting Maui is even more expensive. Still, we locals know a thing or two about saving money on Maui. Here are 10 mon...

10 Amazing Instagram Spots on Maui

Some would say that Maui is made for Instagram. With world-class sunsets and ocean views, you can never go wrong with sunset shots from the shore. But...

Recent Hawaii Posts

2 for 1 whale watch sundays, connect with us #hawaiioceanproject.

Hawaii Ocean Project - Oahu Ala Wai Harbor, 1663 Ala Moana Blvd., Honolulu, HI 96815 Next to Ala Moana Bridge & Prince Waikiki Hotel Reservations: 808-667-6165

Hawaii Ocean Project - Maui Ma’alaea Harbor, 300 Ma’alaea Rd., Wailuku 96793 South Loading Dock at the end of the pier Reservations: 808-667-6165

HawaiiOceanProject.com Search

I went to Hawaii for the first time. My trip would've been better if I'd known these 5 things before I left.

• I visited Hawaii for the first time, and there are things I wish I'd known before the trip. 
• Figuring out that there's more than one Leonard's Bakery on Oahu would've saved me some stress.
• I also wish I'd known how easy it would be to get around the island — I could've explored even more.

Well over 1 million people have already visited the Hawaiian Islands this year, and I was lucky enough to be one of them.

I went on a nine-day trip to Oahu that included a stay at Disney's Aulani Resort in Ko Olina.

Because this was my first time visiting Hawaii, I tried to do as much research as possible before my trip. But after arriving, I still wished I'd known a few things.

I thought it would be much harder to get around the island.

Before leaving for Oahu, I'd heard from friends and read on social-media groups that getting around could be difficult. My fears of sitting in traffic for the whole week set in before I even stepped foot off the plane.

In reality, my family and I never got stuck in gridlocked traffic over our six days on the island.

A hotel worker we met said no matter what part of the island you were on, the big secret was to head out after 9 a.m. and try to make your way back either before 3 p.m. or after 6 p.m.

My family and I followed this rule every day of our trip and never had much traffic to deal with while we traveled from Ko Olina to Pearl Harbor and Ko Olina to the North Shore.

We also found the drivers to be much more courteous than we're used to back in Florida. No one weaved in and out of the cars around us.

The kind of sunscreen you pack matters.

My packing list for Hawaii was long, but one of the most important items was sunscreen. Hawaii is close to the equator, so the UV rays are even stronger on the islands.

But I wished I'd known more about the islands' rules around reef-safe sunscreen before I started packing.

Hawaii passed a law banning the sale of sunscreens with the chemicals oxybenzone and octinoxate that went into effect in 2021. And some counties allow only mineral-based sunscreens.

I ended up using Sun Bum sunscreen throughout my stay, and now that I know more, I'll continue to use it in Florida to help protect coral reefs.

I wish I'd known there's more than one Leonard’s Bakery on the island.

One of the most talked about spots on Oahu is Leonard's Bakery , known for its Portuguese-style doughnuts named malasadas.

The main store is near Honolulu, which was about a 40-minute drive from where we were staying. I'd pretty much accepted that we'd have to budget a few hours one day to try the sugary treats.

But once we landed on Oahu, we noticed a Leonard's Bakery food truck — lovingly named Malasadamobiles — about 10 minutes from the resort.

The truck dished out hot malasadas to order, but it didn't offer the main bakery's extended menu. That was the only real trade-off for us, but it was worth it to save on driving time.

The weather can change depending on what side of the island you’re on.

The weather can be drastically different around Oahu. For instance, when my family left Ko Olina on the western side of the island to drive to the North Shore, the sun was out, and it was very warm.

About an hour into our drive, we passed by Kualoa Ranch (a filming location for "Jurassic Park"), and it was suddenly cooler and cloudy.

Once we got to the North Shore, the sun was back out, and we were able to enjoy our day of beach hopping.

Learning a few key Hawaiian phrases goes a long way with locals.

Knowing some key sayings and phrases in a native language goes a long way with locals, no matter where you're traveling. I knew some basic Hawaiian words — such as "aloha" (hello) and "mahalo" (thank you) — but I wish I'd learned a few more.

While I was there, one new phrase I learned that came in handy was "a hui hou," which means "until we meet again."

We stayed in some spots for a few days, so it was nice to say that to the people we'd connected with on our way out.

• Main content

• Auction Bids
• Auction Watchlist

Travel news, tips, reviews & videos of luxury hotels to help plan your vacation.

Bid & win a luxury hotel stay or travel item for your next vacation.

• Accessories
• Accommodation
• Experiences

Book a room with us for complimentary upgrades & VIP benefits like breakfast for two at your favorite luxury hotel.

• Find Out More

Recents Clear

Best Marriott In Waikiki: Sheraton Vs. Royal Hawaiian

popular post today

When comparing Sheraton Waikiki to The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki, it is immediately worth mentioning that both hotels are located on the beach and in the heart of Waikiki’s nightlife and action.

We have stayed in Waikiki on a number of occasions and have stayed in both of these hotels. We particularly love the Halekulani and Royal Hawaiian in Waikiki and the Four Seasons Oahu beyond Waikiki.

1. Location: Sheraton Vs. Royal Hawaiian

Sheraton Waikiki is brilliantly located between the Halekulani and the Royal Hawaiian on the beachfront in Waikiki.

The Sheraton and The Royal Hawaiian hotels are in the center of the action, and it’s easy to grab a coffee at one of the other hotels or an evening cocktail at Halekulani Hotel’s famous House Without A Key Bar from this central location. Dukes Canoe Club, the Cheesecake Factory, and almost every shop and fast food restaurant are nearby.

2. Beach and Pools

The Sheraton Waikiki has relatively slim sands in front of it. The Royal Hawaiian has a much wider golden sand beach in front of it, offering gorgeous beach loungers with umbrellas. However, the Sheraton enjoys a beautiful new beachfront semi-circular infinity pool, which partially makes up for the fact that there is very little to no sand actually in front of the hotel.

So, for the best beach, you must pick the Royal Hawaiian.

For the best pool but a very poor ribbon of beach, pick the Sheraton Waikiki. Here, the new Infinity pool is completely stunning and ideal for Instagram shots – check out where we’ve been lately on our own Luxury Travel Diary Instagram – but if you are traveling with your family, you might be disappointed with the lack of beach.

The Royal Hawaiian has a large freeform pool and a round pool, both surrounded by palm trees, so there is plenty of beach and pool space at the Royal Hawaiian.

The Sheraton is more suitable for adults, and the Royal Hawaiian is more suitable for families because of the larger beach and more traditional pools.

Four Seasons Oahu Vs. Ritz-Carlton Waikiki Vs. Halekulani Vs. Royal Hawaiian

Recommended Post In "Tips"

Which is the best hotel on Oahu Beach? Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina Vs. Ritz Carlton Waikiki Vs. Halekulani Vs Royal Hawaiian. These four hotels are in quite different locations. Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina is not in Waikiki or Honolulu. Four Seasons is in Ko Olina, which is a good hours drive from Honolulu, depending on traffic. So if you want to explore Honolulu and Waikiki, then Four Seasons isn't a great choice. What Four Seasons does have is larger grounds, a better beach, a more stylish pool area, and a fantastic tropical resort feel.

If you want the best hotel on the island of Oahu, it has to be Four Seasons Oahu which is one of the best Four Seasons on Hawaii and is not to be missed. Four Seasons Oahu is not in or even near Waikiki but is on a glorious beach in a beautiful setting.

3. Accommodations

The Sheraton Waikiki is a colossal high-rise that was built in 1971. It’s probably the most prominent hotel on famous Waikiki Beach, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Diamond Head crater.

It offers over 1,600 guest rooms and suites, providing a range of accommodations, including oceanfront rooms. Sheraton Waikiki features modern and comfortable guest rooms and suites, many with balconies offering some of the best ocean views in Waikiki. You are virtually hanging over the beach from the Sheraton ocean view rooms.

This hotel is enormous and massively high, so the superb views are because your room will be found in a tower block. The advantage of this block is that every ocean-facing room has a beautiful balcony.

The Royal Hawaiian, sometimes called the Pink Palace, was built in 1927 and is famous for its distinctive pink exterior and luxurious accommodations. It has since been extended to include more modern rooms with balconies.

The Royal Hawaiian Hotel covers approximately 14 acres of prime beachfront real estate along Waikiki Beach. The hotel itself is grand in scale, featuring a main building with multiple wings and additional bungalows spread throughout the meticulously landscaped grounds.

With over 500 guest rooms and suites, as well as various restaurants, bars, pools, and recreational facilities, the Royal Hawaiian offers a spacious and opulent retreat for its guests. It is worth mentioning that the historic rooms in the main building do not usually have balconies. You need to book rooms in the newer wing for balconies, so watch out for this.

The Royal Hawaiian’s Spanish-Moorish architectural design, highlighted by its distinctive pink facade, reflects the elegance of the early 20th century. It is a landmark in terms of size and iconic appearance along the Waikiki coastline.

10 Best Marriotts In Hawaii

Which is the best Marriott hotel in Hawaii? We think the best Marriott hotels in Hawaii are the Ritz-Carlton Kapalua, the Ritz-Carlton Waikiki, and Wailea Beach Resort, but there are plenty more to choose from, depending on your budget. Read on to find out which hotel will work best for you. The Marriott brand includes Luxury Collection, EDITION, St Regis, W Hotels, and JW Marriott, as well as mid-range brands like Autograph Collection, Renaissance, Sheraton, Le Meridien, Design Hotels, and Westin.

4. Atmosphere

Both hotels are huge, but the foyer and grounds of the Royal Hawaiian feel historical and magical, and overall, the hotel feels more intimate and boutique. The foyer is so significant that tour groups often stop by to marvel at its beauty, and when you check in, you feel like you are in the original, unspoiled Hawaii.

The Sheraton entrance is reached via a Shopping Mall, similar to the Hyatt Regency around the corner, which we’ve also compared to the Hilton Hawaiian Village . This gives the hotel’s communal areas a transient feel, as anyone who walks through the mall can use the restaurants and communal spaces (although you must stay if you want to use the pools).

Best Marriott In Waikiki: Royal Hawaiian Vs. Westin Moana Surfrider

In this review, we ask, which is the best Marriott Bonvoy hotel in Waikiki? Royal Hawaiian vs. Westin Moana Surfrider vs. Sheraton vs. Marriott. If you fly into Honolulu (HNL), you will probably head straight to the resort of Waikiki for your stay in Hawaii. If you collect Marriott or Sheraton Starwood (SPG), now Bonvoy points, then it's worth knowing where you can spend them and earn them and which hotels are in the Bonvoy portfolio on Oahu and, in fact, across the Hawaiian islands.

5. Best Way To Book

Book any of the best Marriott hotels in Hawaii with our luxury travel concierge to get free benefits including prioritized room upgrades, free breakfasts resort credit, and more. We also apply your Bonvoy loyalty number to your bookings so you can still collect your points and miles when you book with us (if you book via a third-party automated agency, you will not get your loyalty points or our free benefits).

6. Club Lounge

The Sheraton Waikiki and Moana Surfrider both have some of the best club lounges in Waikiki , but the Royal Hawaiian does not have a club lounge.

The view from the club lounge at the Sheraton Waikiki is excellent, although it is a crowded room (often full of kids). The lounge offers a decent breakfast, light dinner with snacks, and free-flowing self-service wine and beer in the evening. However, it lacks much of a Hawaiian feel.

Best Hotel Club Or Executive Level Lounge In Waikiki

This article outlines the hotels in Waikiki, Oahu, which offer club or executive lounges to guests. By reviewing each of these club lounges, in turn, I conclude which hotel club lounge comes in at the top and which hotels I would select as having the best club lounges that Waikiki has to offer. Unfortunately, there is no InterContinental in Waikiki, so there is no way to snag free Club lounge access here. Still, loyalty status can get you in the door, or you can book a room on the executive floor of these hotels to secure club lounge entry.

7. Conclusion

Pick the Sheraton Waikiki for the views from its rooms and club lounge, location, and superb infinity pool. However, remember that its beach is lacking and just a ribbon of sand. The Sheraton Waikiki is also usually cheaper than the Royal Hawaiian.

Pick the Royal Hawaiian for its brilliant beach and “step back in time” setting, which will blow you away. It is also brilliantly located for its location, historical significance, grounds, and lovely beach.

That said, both hotels offer a great luxury base on Waikiki Beach.

Copyright Luxury Travel Diary 2014 - 2024. Duplication outside of luxurytraveldiary.com is forbidden.

Image © SCStock / Adobe Stock.

Note: Benefits & upgrades subject to availability. Benefits offered correct at the time of writing. Terms & conditions apply. Enquire for more information. Benefits offered correct at the time of writing but may be amended at discretion of the vendor. Posts may be sponsored by the proprietor or brand being appraised. All opinions remain our own & are in no way influenced.

Featured By

Join our mailing list

Check your inbox or spam folder to confirm your subscription.

Receive news on auctions & our most popular posts. Opt out at any time. See our Privacy Policy for details.

Who are the Chase transfer partners? Everything to know

Ultimate Rewards points are the currency of most Chase-branded credit cards. You can earn Chase Ultimate Rewards points for everyday spending and then redeem them for a wide range of rewards.

Despite increasing competition from American Express Membership Rewards points , Citi ThankYou Rewards points and Capital One miles , Chase Ultimate Rewards points have maintained their place as one of the most valuable and useful points currencies — especially with valuable products like the Chase Sapphire Reserve® , Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card .

Transferring Ultimate Rewards to travel partners is often the most valuable way to redeem your hard-earned points. With 14 different transfer partners, you have plenty of options, since you can keep your Chase points in your Ultimate Rewards account until you can transfer them.

Related: The best Chase credit cards

Here is everything to know about Chase Ultimate Rewards' transfer partners.

What are the Chase transfer partners?

You can transfer Ultimate Rewards points to 11 airline programs:

• Aer Lingus AerClub
• Air Canada Aeroplan
• Air France-KLM Flying Blue
• British Airways Executive Club
• Emirates Skywards
• Iberia Plus
• JetBlue TrueBlue
• Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer
• Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards
• United Airlines MileagePlus
• Virgin Atlantic Flying Club

Chase also partners with three hotel programs:

• IHG One Rewards
• Marriott Bonvoy
• World of Hyatt

All transfer ratios are 1:1 (though there are occasional transfer bonuses ), and you must transfer points in 1,000-point increments.

How long do Ultimate Rewards transfers take?

Most transfers from Chase Ultimate Rewards to its partner programs are instantaneous , with two exceptions. In our testing, transfers to both Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer and Marriott Bonvoy can take up to two business days.

We've heard anecdotal stories of delays with other programs, but as long as the name on your Ultimate Rewards account matches that on your loyalty program account, these should process immediately.

Note that transfer bonuses can also be inconsistent. For example, when TPG's Nick Ewen recently transferred points to Aeroplan to take advantage of a 20% bonus, the base points arrived immediately, but it took three days for the bonus points to post.

How do I transfer Chase points to partners?

You can easily transfer Chase points online. First, log in to your Chase account and navigate to the Ultimate Rewards portal. Under the Travel drop-down, select "Transfer to Travel Partners" to access the main transfer page.

You will then see the list of transfer partners. Any current transfer bonuses will also be shown (note that the screen shot below may show outdated offers). Select your desired transfer partner, link your external account if you have not already done so, select the number of Ultimate Rewards points you wish to transfer and then submit the transfer.

Remember, Ultimate Rewards transfers cannot be reversed, so it's best to wait until you have a specific use before transferring them.

What are the best Chase transfer partners?

Given the low award chart rates of the World of Hyatt program, many TPG staffers believe Hyatt is the best hotel transfer option for Ultimate Rewards points.

If you would prefer to transfer to one of the 11 different airline program partners, the best option may depend on which airlines fly to and from the destinations you wish to travel, who the program partners with and which airlines you like to travel with.

There are sweet spots to be found in most airline transfer options, especially those programs that have retained award charts .

Here are some of our favorite Ultimate Rewards sweet spots .

Top-tier Hyatt hotels

The World of Hyatt award chart has two appealing factors. First, its mere existence is notable, given most other hotel programs (including IHG One Rewards and Marriott Bonvoy, the other Chase hotel partners) have shifted to dynamic pricing .

Beyond that, Hyatt award rates can be incredibly low compared to some competitors. You can book some of the fanciest Park Hyatt properties in the entire portfolio, including the Park Hyatt New York and Park Hyatt Sydney , for just 35,000 points per night during off-peak dates. TPG values Hyatt points at 1.7 cents each, so 35,000 points are worth $595.

That's a great deal for hotels that sell for close to $1,000 per night, even when demand is low.

There's also great value at the lower end of the Hyatt award chart. Category 1 hotels range from 3,500 to 6,500 points per night, depending on whether you travel on peak, standard or off-peak dates.

Iberia flights to Madrid

Round-trip, off-peak flights from New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), Chicago's O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) to Spain's capital will only set you back 34,000 Avios in economy, 51,000 in premium economy or 68,000 in business when you transfer your Chase points to Iberia Plus. Considering that most airlines charge at least 60,000 miles for a one-way business-class award to Europe, you're essentially getting a 50% discount.

Related: 7 of the best airline award chart sweet spots

Flights to Hawaii with Alaska and American

By transferring your Ultimate Rewards to British Airways, you can book awards with Oneworld partners American Airlines and Alaska Airlines . As long as your nonstop flight distance is under 3,000 miles each way (and saver-level award space is available), you can leverage British Airways' distance-based award chart to fly from any West Coast gateway to Hawaii for only 32,000 Avios round-trip — after a December 2023 devaluation that saw prices increase by up to 32%.

ANA flights booked through Virgin Atlantic

For just 145,000 miles, you can fly round-trip in All Nippon Airways first class between the West Coast and Tokyo. Flights from other U.S. gateways only cost an extra 25,000 miles (170,000 miles round-trip). Business-class redemptions are an even better deal, costing just 90,000-95,000 miles round-trip, depending on your U.S. departure airport. If possible, you'll want to route through New York-JFK and fly ANA's new industry-leading "The Room" business class , which is only available on select routes.

However, availability can be difficult to come by.

Short-haul flights to Canada

Aeroplan stuck to an award chart for partner redemptions but added dynamic pricing for Air Canada flights. As a result, you can often find super-cheap short-haul tickets from the U.S. to Canada. For example, New York to Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ) can be booked for under 6,000 miles one-way on many dates.

However, you can also find very reasonable award rates on Star Alliance partners through Aeroplan — including Lufthansa, Swiss and EVA Airways.

Related: Your complete guide to Star Alliance benefits

What are Chase Ultimate Rewards points worth?

TPG values Ultimate Rewards points at 2.05 cents apiece in our monthly valuations, and we believe you will receive the best value by transferring the points to partners.

However, you'll get varying values for Chase points if you pursue other redemption opportunities. For example, Ultimate Rewards points are worth 1.5 cents apiece through the Chase travel portal for Sapphire Reserve cardholders or 1.25 cents for those with the Sapphire Preferred or Ink Business Preferred . You'll also have access to Chase Pay Yourself Back as a cardholder of any of the above cards, and there are occasionally offers to use Chase points for Apple products or gift cards at an enhanced value.

Finally, Chase points are worth 1 cent apiece if used for simple cash back.

How do I earn Chase Ultimate Rewards points?

There are many ways to earn Chase points at 1-10 points per dollar spent, depending on the specific Chase credit card you carry.

The first three cards below earn fully transferable Ultimate Rewards points by themselves, while the remaining four are technically billed as cash-back credit cards .

However, if you have an Ultimate Rewards-earning card, you can effectively convert your cash-back rewards into Ultimate Rewards points. For this reason, having more than one Chase card can make sense to maximize your earning and redeeming potential.

Here are the cards that allow you to earn Chase Ultimate Rewards points.

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

Welcome bonus: 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening

Why you want it: This is a fantastic all-around travel credit card . It earns points at the following rates:

• 5 points per dollar on Lyft (through March 2025)
• 5 points per dollar on all travel purchased through Chase Travel
• 3 points per dollar on dining, including eligible delivery services, takeout and dining out
• 3 points per dollar on select streaming services
• 3 points per dollar on online grocery purchases (excluding Target, Walmart and wholesale clubs)
• 2 points per dollar on all other travel
• 1 point per dollar on all other purchases

The Sapphire Preferred has no foreign transaction fees and has many travel perks , including delayed baggage insurance, trip interruption/cancellation insurance and primary car rental insurance .

Annual fee: $95

Application link: Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

Chase Sapphire Reserve

Welcome bonus: 75,000 points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening

Why you want it: The Sapphire Reserve offers earning power paired with travel perks that can easily cover the annual fee. It earns points at the following rates:

• 10 points per dollar on Lyft (through March 2025)
• 10 points per dollar on Chase Dining booked through Ultimate Rewards
• 10 points per dollar on hotel and car rental purchases through the Chase Travel
• 5 points per dollar on airline travel booked through Chase Travel
• 3 points per dollar on travel not booked through Chase
• 3 points per dollar on other dining purchases
• 1 point per dollar on all other eligible purchases

Other perks include an easy-to-use $300 annual travel credit , a fee credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck (up to $100 once every four years) and Priority Pass Select lounge access as well as the growing list of new Sapphire lounges . This is one of the few cards that allow you to use your Priority Pass membership for discounted meals in airport restaurants . Cardholders also get primary car rental coverage , trip interruption/cancellation insurance and other protections .

Annual fee: $550

Application link: Chase Sapphire Reserve

Ink Business Preferred Credit Card

Welcome bonus: 100,000 points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening

Why you want it: This is one of the best credit cards for small-business owners , earning 3 points per dollar on the first $150,000 spent in combined purchases on travel, shipping purchases, internet, cable and phone services, advertising made with social media sites and search engines each account anniversary year. You earn 1 point per dollar on all other purchases, and points don't expire as long as your account is open.

Application link: Ink Business Preferred Credit Card

Cash-back Chase credit cards

Four Chase credit cards are technically billed as cash-back products. However, suppose you have one of the three cards noted above. In that case, you can combine your points in a single account, converting these cash-back rewards into fully transferable Ultimate Rewards points.

Even better? None of these cards charge an annual fee.

Here are the four cards that offer this functionality:

• Chase Freedom Flex : Earn $200 after you spend $500 in the first three months of account opening. Earn 5% back on select bonus categories, which rotate every quarter and apply on up to $1,500 in combined spending (activation required). Plus, earn 5% on travel purchased through Chase Travel , 3% on dining at restaurants (including takeout and eligible delivery services) and 3% on drugstore purchases.
• Chase Freedom Unlimited : Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year), worth up to $300 cash back. Plus, earn 5% on travel purchased through Chase Travel , 3% on dining at restaurants (including takeout and eligible delivery services) and 3% on drugstore purchases. Earn 1.5% on all other purchases.
• Ink Business Cash Credit Card : Earn up to $750: $350 bonus cash back after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months, and an additional $400 when you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first six months from account opening. Earn 5% cash back on the first $25,000 in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services each account anniversary year (then 1%). Earn 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year (then 1%).
• Ink Business Unlimited Credit Card : Earn $750 cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. Earn unlimited 1.5% cash-back rewards on every purchase.

Note that Chase also issues the Ink Business Premier® Credit Card . However, the earnings on this card can't be combined with others in the Ultimate Rewards ecosystem.

Read more: Your guide to the Chase Ink Business credit cards

Bottom line

If you value the flexibility of choosing from 11 airline partners and three hotel partners, Chase Ultimate Rewards is one of our favorite credit card programs at TPG.

In the age of no-notice devaluations by some loyalty programs, it is smart to earn Ultimate Rewards via the range of credit card welcome bonuses, category bonuses and everyday spending, and then keep your Ultimate Rewards points until you are ready to transfer and book with an airline or hotel partner.

• Twitter / X
• Readers' Choice
• Food & Drink
• Arts & Culture
• Travel Guides

Vote for your favorite adventure tour operator!

USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

These 20 adventure tour operators — nominated by an expert panel — cater to travelers who crave excitement, challenge, and fun in their vacations. Whether you're looking for an individualized journey or group tour, they'll have something for you, with activities ranging from hiking and biking to rafting and kayaking. Which adventure tour operator would you most like to book with? Vote for your favorite once per day until polls close on Monday, May 27 at noon ET. The 10 winning tour operators will be announced on Wednesday, June 5. Read the official  Readers' Choice rules . 

These 20 adventure tour operators — nominated by an expert panel — cater to travelers who crave excitement, challenge, and fun in their vacations. Whether you're looking for an individualized journey or group tour,...   Read More

Best Adventure Tour Operator Nominees

Photo courtesy of Todd Mintz

Adventure Canada

Equipped with a fleet of small-scale cruise liners, Adventure Canada has mastered the art of both Arctic and Antarctic excursions. Across Canada, the Northwest Passage voyage highlights the idyllic beauty of Nunavut, while those hoping to spot polar bears in the wild should spring for a Heart of the Arctic expedition, with both featuring highly educated naturalists and archaeologists aboard the ship.

Photo courtesy of Tyson Mayr

Aurora Expeditions

A pioneer of Antarctic travel in the 20th century, Aurora Expeditions has evolved into a force within the industry that offers trips all across the globe. Polar voyages are particularly popular, with options ranging from the shores of Antarctica to the High Arctic, while other cruise routes include Costa Rica, Scotland, and Iceland.

Photo courtesy of Bindlestiff Tours

Bindlestiff Tours

Bindlestiff Tours specializes in small group adventures with a focus on the American Southwest, Alaska, and western Canada. Guests enjoy fully customized touring vehicles with enlarged viewing windows, free Wi-Fi at most campsites, and the myriad benefits of insider expertise, like the best spots to photograph a sunset or favorite local restaurants.

Photo courtesy of Kirstie Mullikin

Explorer Chick Adventure Co.

From snorkeling around the Galapagos to gorilla trekking in Uganda, Explorer Chick’s curated tours span five separate continents — and each one is crafted specifically by women, for women. Founded in 2014 by Nicki Bruckmann, this adventure company provides ample opportunity to explore gorgeous landscapes and forge new friendships all across the globe.

Photo courtesy of GomezDavid / E+ Getty Images

Frontiers North Adventures

While northern Canada may not be the most easily accessed region, Frontiers North Adventures is perfectly equipped for making your dream excursion come true. In addition to polar bear safaris and beluga whale watching, the company's Northern Lights and Winter Nights excursion offers an opportunity to catch one of the planet's most stunning natural phenomena in real life.

Photo courtesy of G Adventures, Inc.

G Adventures

Launched in 1990, G Adventures has earned acclaim for their wide array of high-end tours and strong commitment to positive social impact. Whether it's hiking in Iceland or biking in Vietnam, each trip is designed to reflect the company's G for Good philosophy, a concept that seeks to benefit all people and communities visited during a trip.

Photo courtesy of HX & Espen Mills

HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions)

HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions) has earned widespread acclaim for their lavish cruises, with destinations ranging from the frigid depths of Antarctica to the sunny shores of the Caribbean. For wildlife lovers in particular, the company's Galapagos expeditions shine a spotlight on the rich biodiversity of the archipelago, while a Svalbard voyage is perfect for spotting polar bears in their natural habitat.

Photo courtesy of Intrepid Travel

Intrepid Travel

Toronto-based Intrepid is a treasure trove for small-scale sustainable tours, with more than 100 countries available to visit. With itineraries like lemur-spotting in the rural depths of Madagascar and cultural immersions across the Middle East, this storied adventure company is perfect for accessing some of the most remote corners of the globe.

Photo courtesy of Journeys International

Journeys International

Journeys International builds private and group trips to a variety of worldwide destinations, centering each adventure around the individual's or groups' travel goals. Each party is assigned an adventure specialist who makes personalized choices of locations and activities to include in the experience. All journeys are designed to give every person involved a special and unique trip of a lifetime.

Photo courtesy of Ralph Lee Hopkins, Lindblad Expeditions

Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic

New Zealand, French Polynesia, and Greenland are just a few of the dazzling destinations frequented by Lindblad Expeditions, a storied tour operator that's been working in tandem with National Geographic since 2004. While warm weather destinations span from Baja California to the Amazon, the company has earned abundant acclaim for their immersive Antarctic expeditions focusing on native wildlife amidst stunning scenery.

Photo courtesy of KenCanning / E+ Getty Images

Maple Leaf Adventures

The spectacular beauty of Canada is on full display with Maple Leaf Adventures, a small-ship cruise operator that's been in the business since 1986. While the bulk of their itineraries focus on showcasing locations across western Canada, gastronomes can also join in on the fun with a curated Craft Beer Cruise or Wines And Islands excursion across British Columbia.

Photo courtesy of Karin Watkins MT Sobek Photo File

MT Sobek has been a leader in the adventure travel industry for more than half a century. Today, travelers can choose from some 200 journeys around the world. Each one is designed to inspire and exhilarate, with interest categories like multi-adventure, family adventure, wildlife and safari, adventure cruising, hiking and trekking, cultural discovery, and rafting and kayaking.

Photo courtesy of Nantahala Outdoor Center

Nantahala Outdoor Center

Beginning as a small-scale rafting tour company back in 1972, Nantahala Outdoor Center has expanded far beyond just the rivers of North Carolina, operating tours from southern Iceland to the Zambezi River. Though their scope has expanded on an international scale, the company still excels at domestic adventure, showcasing the incredible rafting opportunities across the Southern United States.

Photo courtesy of REI Co-op / REI Adventures

Adventure travelers have long turned to REI to outfit their travels; with REI Adventures, they’ll also find more than 100 fully curated experiences across the United States. These active travel itineraries might involve cycling near Zion National Park, hiking through Yellowstone and Grand Teton, kayaking at Point Reyes, or enjoying a weekend of backpacking close to home.

Photo courtesy of Stubborn Mule Travel

Stubborn Mule Travel

A perfect fit for all ages, Stubborn Mule Travel has curated a wide variety of itineraries designed specifically for traveling families. Destinations span across five continents, and as an added bonus, the company also offers unique itinerary stops based off of the interests of each individual guest.

Photo courtesy of 104kelly // Getty Images

Thomson Safaris

Best known as the home of Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania has earned worldwide acclaim for its abundant natural beauty — a quality that Thomson Safaris has been highlighting for more than 40 years. While there’s no going wrong with a classic safari, the company also offers food-focused tours and even plane excursions, each one led by a team of expert local guides.

Photo courtesy of Urban Events Global Team

Urban Events Global

Kevin Knight founded Urban Events Global as a travel company for African American adventure seekers looking to explore with like-minded travelers. The company hosts regular camping weekends, as well as group tours to destinations like Ghana, Dubai, Greece, and Jamaica. They can also plan a custom trip itinerary for you.

Photo courtesy of Ren Fuller // Women High On Adventure

WHOA Travel

WHOA Travel works with women guides and business owners to build unique travel experiences. WHOA group adventures are scheduled all over the world, from Kilimanjaro and Peru to Iceland and Bavaria. 

Photo courtesy of Wild Women Expeditions

Wild Women Expeditions

Wild Women Expeditions specializes in “amazing outdoor adventures for all women.” The company leads trips to more than two dozen countries around the globe, with activities like canoeing, kayaking, cycling, hiking, surfing, sailing, and yoga.

Photo courtesy of Beth Peluse / Zephyr Adventures

Zephyr Adventures

Equipped with a roster of trips that span from strenuous mountain hikes to e-biking excursions, Zephyr Adventures offers a diverse range of options for your next getaway. For a glimpse into the beauty of coastal New England, the Acadia National Park Hiking Adventure is a top choice, while those who prefer a more laid-back itinerary can spring for the Czech Republic Breweries and Walking Adventure.

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Brandon withrow.

Brandon Withrow is a travel journalist based in...   Read More

Brandon Withrow is a travel journalist based in Northwest Ohio, covering ecotourism, wildlife, outdoor adventures, and eco-friendly stays, as well as the secrets of underrated cities. He appears in The Daily Beast, BBC Travel, Canadian Geographic, Business Insider, The Hill, and Sierra Magazine. You can find him at  www.brandonwithrow.com ,  @bwithrow  on Twitter, and  @bgwithrow  on Instagram.

Chez Chesak

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor...   Read More

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, an adventure travel writer, board member of the Society of American Travel Writers and 22-year veteran of the outdoor and travel industries. While he’s lived all over the U.S. and traveled to more than 30 countries, he has the most fun when he’s exploring with his wife Sally and two daughters. An avid outdoors person, he’s happiest on a trail, on skis, or nestled into a sleeping bag. Learn more about him and his work at www.chezconnects.com .  

Dave Stamboulis

Dave Stamboulis is a travel writer/photographer...   Read More

Dave Stamboulis is a travel writer/photographer based in Bangkok. Born in Athens, Greece and growing up in the U.S., Dave first discovered Bangkok while on a 45,000-kilometer bicycle trip and moved there for good in 2005. Dave's photos appear in publications around the world. He's the author of Odysseus' Last Stand , which received the Silver Medal for Travel Book of the Year from the Society of American Travel Writers. In addition to updating the Fodor's Guidebook to Thailand, he is the author of 500 Hidden Secrets to Bangkok, and his travel stories and photography appear in publications around the globe. 

Jacky Runice

Born in Bucktown when bulletproof was a home...   Read More

Born in Bucktown when bulletproof was a home safety choice and not a coffee order, Jacky Runice has been knocking around Chicago as a professional print, online and broadcast journalist and editor specializing in separating the riff from the raff in culture, entertainment, food, travel and pure unadulterated fun. Jacky is a member of the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA). In her best Chicagoese, Jacky asks, "Who has the time or money to blow on hotels, attractions, restaurants, exhibits and activities that blow?"

Jamie Davis Smith

Jamie is an attorney, writer and photographer. She...   Read More

Jamie is an attorney, writer and photographer. She was born with deeply ingrained wanderlust and has visited 45 countries and counting. She often brings her children along for the adventure and is passing her love of travel on to the next generation. Jamie has written for   Insider,   Fodor's Travel ,   Yahoo ,  the Huffington Post , the  Washington Post,   Viator  and  Reviewed  among many other publications. Jamie is from Philadelphia and now lives in Washington, DC, where she takes advantage of everything the region has to offer.    Jamie can be reached at  [email protected]  and can be found on  Twitter ,  Instagram  and  TikTok .

Marla Cimini

Marla is an award-winning writer with a passion...   Read More

Marla is an award-winning writer with a passion for travel, music, surfing and culinary adventures! An avid globetrotter and guidebook writer, she has covered topics such as the Hawaiian islands (including food trends and luxury beachfront resorts), as well as European getaways and global destinations. Her articles have appeared in many publications worldwide, including USA Today. Marla lives in New Jersey (Philadelphia area) and is a frequent visitor to Hawaii and Southern California, and often covers those destinations. Her travel website is:  www.marlacimini.com  

Meg St-Esprit

Meg St-Esprit is a journalist based in Pittsburgh...   Read More

Meg St-Esprit is a journalist based in Pittsburgh who covers family travel, lifestyle, education, and parenting. With their four kids in tow, she and her husband love to travel anywhere and everywhere — but have a soft spot for camping and outdoor adventures. In fact, her kids are well on their way to achieving their goal of visiting all 124 state parks in Pennsylvania. Meg believes travel doesn’t need to be luxurious or costly to be valuable, and aims to share that with her audience. Meg’s work has appeared in publications such as  The New York Times, Thrillist, The Washington Post, Fodor’s, Yahoo, Good Housekeeping, Romper , and more. Follow Meg on Instagram and Twitter at @megstesprit or check out her work on  https://megstesprit.com/

Melanie Reffes

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in...   Read More

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in Manhattan, she now lives on the sunny island of Montreal and covers  the Caribbean for a variety of publications  including  USA TODAY 10Best, CaribbeanTravel.com and MarryCaribbean.com.  A journalist with a boatload of writer awards under her belt, Melanie's affection for the Caribbean started  young when her family vacationed in Puerto Rico.   An avid fan of spicy food,   Melanie enjoys the diversity of Montreal - especially during the warmer months -when she's not en route to the Caribbean. She  holds a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Toronto. 

Nicky Omohundro

Nicky Omohundro is the founder and editor of Read More

Nicky Omohundro is the founder and editor of LittleFamilyAdventure.com , the popular family travel & lifestyle website that inspires families to leave no child left inside. Since 2013 LFA has been providing inspiration to get families outdoors, eat well, and travel everywhere from their own backyard to around the world. Always up for a family adventure, she has traveled to 37 states and 6 countries to zip-line through a Costa Rican rainforest, see Finland’s Northern Lights, and go camping throughout the US. Nicky is the co-founder of Tourism WorX a travel consultancy group. Connect with her Twitter  and Instagram .

Olivia Christine Perez

Olivia Christine Perez is an outdoor + travel...   Read More

Olivia Christine Perez is an outdoor + travel wellness expert, author, and the creator of  O. Christine : a travel and wellness platform inspiring thousands of people to travel more and get outdoors for their wellness. Living with an autoimmune disease herself, Olivia helps people find wellness through the outdoors, self-care adventures, and mindful travel experiences. You can follow her work at  ochristine.com  and  instagram.com/ochristine.

Shea Peters

Shea Peters is a NYC based writer and frequent...   Read More

Shea Peters is a NYC based writer and frequent world traveler that looks to the history of a location in order to tell the story. Growing up in a Southern family that loves to travel, Shea has seen 44 of the 50 US states and believes that every place has a story worth telling, regardless of how populated or rural. She's currently a regular contributor discussing travel, culture, history, food, wellness, and business at Travel + Leisure, Elle, Harper’s Bazaar, Oprah Daily, Women’s Health, TripAdvisor, Cosmo, and Revolt TV. When she's not traveling, rooting for some unlikable sports team, or taking a pilates class, you can find Shea in her rooftop garden that is currently flourishing above the streets of New York City. You can follow Shea on  Instagram  and  Twitter .

Tamara Gane

Tamara Gane is an expert panel member for 10Best...   Read More

Tamara Gane is an expert panel member for 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. She's based in Reno/Lake Tahoe and in addition to USA Today 10Best, her work has been published in Travel & Leisure, Fodor's Travel, The Washington Post, SF Gate, Houston Chronicle, Lonely Planet, and more.

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.