travel nurse hawaii pay

Travel Nurse Salary in Hawaii

How much does a travel nurse make in hawaii.

As of March 26, 2024, the average annual pay of Travel Nurse in Hawaii is $86,472. While Salary.com is seeing that Travel Nurse salary in Hawaii can go up to $104,388 or down to $70,622, but most earn between $78,176 and $95,850. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills and your experience levels. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target.

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Salary.com provides you with accurate and diversified Travel Nurse salary data based on specialized databases to help you get a fairer salary. Click the switch button below to see more details about Travel Nurse hourly pay, weekly pay, monthly pay and so on.

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Travel Nurse RN - Cardiac Cath Lab - $2,194 per week

Host Healthcare - Beaufort, SC

Travel Nurse RN - Cardiac Cath Lab - $2,155 per week

MedPro Healthcare Staffing - Beaufort, SC

Travel Nurse RN - Cardiac Cath Lab - $2,281 per week

RTG Medical-Nursing - Beaufort, SC

Travel Nurse RN - Cardiac Cath Lab - $2,636 per week

Wellspring Nurse Source - Beaufort, SC

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Highest Paying Cities for Travel Nurse in Hawaii

The metropolitan areas that pay the highest salary in the Travel Nurse profession are Aiea, Camp H M Smith, Ewa Beach, Fort Shafter, Honolulu, J B P H H, Kailua, Kaneohe, Pearl City, and Tripler Army Medical Center.

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What does travel nurse do.

Travel Nurse provides professional nursing care to assigned patients. Records patient histories, performs various diagnostic tests, administers medications, and develops patient care plans in conjunction with other medical professionals. Being a Travel Nurse assists physicians during examinations and procedures, operating and monitoring medical equipment as necessary. Observes patients' progress and records observations in patient medical records. Additionally, Travel Nurse promotes patients' independence by teaching patients and families to understand conditions, medications, and self-care skills. May require a bachelor's degree in nursing. Requires a valid state Registered Nurse (RN) license. Typically reports to a manager or head of a unit/department. The Travel Nurse occasionally directed in several aspects of the work. Gaining exposure to some of the complex tasks within the job function. To be a Travel Nurse typically requires 2-4 years of related experience. (Copyright 2024 Salary.com)... View full job description

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View Travel Nurse Salaries in Other States

Geographic variations impact Travel Nurse salary levels, due to various factors, such as cost of living, industries, market demand and company budgets. Click below to see pay differences between states.

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• District of Columbia
• Massachusetts
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• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• New Hampshire
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• West Virginia

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Hawaii Nursing Jobs

Considering a nursing job in Hawaii? Ranked as the top state for both healthcare and healthcare quality by U.S. News and World Report , Hawaii is composed of eight islands (Oahu, Maui, Molokai, Lanai and Hawaii, Niihau, Kahoolawe, Kauai). 

With a nursing job in Hawaii, you can live and work in one of the most beautiful places in the world.

Below is everything you need to know about Hawaii nursing jobs, including Hawaii nursing salaries, how to obtain your Hawaii nursing license, and the top healthcare facilities in Hawaii. 

• Why Travel to Hawaii
• Top Facilities
• Current Jobs Available

Why Travel to Hawaii?

Sandy white beaches, colorful valleys and a more laid-back style of living are among the many things to love about the Hawaiian Islands. 

With temperatures ranging in the 80’s for most of the year, island life allows for hours spent outdoors enjoying activities including surfing, snorkeling and photography.

The Hawaiian Islands feature a variety of culture and each island has its own distinct charm. Oahu is the most populated island while Molokai is a more remote tropical paradise featuring more than 100 miles of waterfalls, beaches and the world’s tallest sea cliffs. 

Hawaii Nursing Salary

What are the typical Hawaii nursing salaries? Although Hawaii boasts the highest cost of living in all of the 50 states, they’re also among the top five states in the nation that pay nurses the highest salaries. 

According to Payscale.com , the average nursing salary for a registered nurse in Hawaii was $36.23 per hour and $71,602 annually as of July, 2018. 

Hawaii nursing salaries will vary depending on the RN specialty and the type of healthcare facility. 

Hawaii Nursing License 

There are multiple paths to obtaining your Hawaii nursing license. Nurses can be licensed by examination or endorsement. Graduates of accredited nursing programs in other jurisdictions may be eligible for Hawaii licensure by endorsement. 

You will need to provide license verification either though an official document (with seal) or online at nursys.com. Candidates who have already taken an acceptable licensing exam (NCLEX or SBTPE) will not be required to do so again. The application process can be completed on the Hawaii Board of Nursing website.

Healthcare Facilities in Hawaii

The Hawaiian Islands are home to 38 hospitals. Data compiled by Bloomberg notes that residents of Hawaii live two years longer than the national average of 79 years, benefitting from an employer-paid insurance plan that the state adopted in the 1970’s. 

Among the state’s top hospitals are:

•  Queen’s Medical Center, Honolulu 
•  Straub Medical Center, Honolulu 
•  Kaiser Permanente Medical Center, Honolulu 
•  Castle Medical Center, Kailua 
•  Hilo Medical Center, Hilo 
•  Kahuku Medical Center, Kahuku 
•  Kula Hospital, Kula 

If you’re interested in learning more about travel nursing opportunities in Hawaii, our partners will work with you to locate a nursing job in Hawaii that matches your skills and background. 

0 Jobs Currently Available in Hawaii

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Average Nurse Salary in Hawaii

Hawaii is one of the highest paying states for registered nurses. The registered nurse salary in Hawaii is $111,070 per year. This means that nurses in Hawaii earn an average of $53.40 per hour. On the other hand, the national average for registered nurses is $77,600 per year. This annual salary is approximately $37.31 per hour.‍

(Data courtesy of the Bureau of Labor Statistics )

Use Salary Explorer to see which cities in Hawaii are paying registered nurses the most.

Top Nursing Salary States

• Massachusetts

Highest Paying Cities in Hawaii for...

Travel nurse.

Average gross weekly nurse pay in the top cities/wider metro area

• Wailuku - $2,267
• Honolulu - $2,147
• Kamuela - $2,052
• Lihue - $1,949
• Kaunakakai - $1,923
• Kula - $1,832
• Aiea - $1,810

(Data courtesy of Trusted Health, May 2021)

Registered Nurse

Average annual nurse salary in the following cities/wider metro areas

• Kahului - $120,240
• Honolulu - $120,230

Nurse Specialties

Average annual nurse salary for the following nurse specialties

• Med/Surg Nurse - $102,041 (Range of $92,313 - $113,676)
• Progressive Care Nurse - $90,972 (Range of $80,079 - $103,130)
• Operating Room Nurse - $82,746 (Range of $74,242 - $91,474)
• Emergency Nurse - $80,504 (Range of $71,889 - $89,417)
• ICU Nurse - $79,964 (Range of $72,048 - $86,900)
• Labor and Delivery Nurse - $77,700(Range of $70,700 - $88,000)
• Pediatric Nurse - $76,000 (Range of $68,900 - $87,100)

(Data courtesy of Salary.com, May 2021)

Cost of Living

Although nurse salaries in Hawaii may be 43% higher than the national average, living in Hawaii isn’t cheap. Hawaii ranks the highest above the national cost of living index . While your nursing salary may be higher, the cost of rent alone may make up for it. For more detailed cost of living by city, check out the nurse Salary Explorer .‍

(Data courtesy of World Population Review )

Job Growth for Nurses

Hawaii is a popular destination for staff and travel nurses alike. In 2021, Hawaii was home to more than 11,820 nurses.

However, Hawaii has a strong job outlook, as the number of nurses in Hawaii is expected to grow. Registered nurse jobs are forecasted to grow by more than 1.7% between 2021 and 2023, bringing the total number of working nurses in Hawaii to more than 12,020.

(Data courtesy of Projections Central )

See What Your Nursing Salary Could Be in Your City

We combined proprietary data with official nurse salary data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics to create the most comprehensive view of nurse salary in the United States. We present our findings in hourly pay for staff nurses and gross weekly pay for travel nurses to account for the different ways nurses think about pay.

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• View facilities in any city and save them for later when you’re ready to find your next job.
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Travel Nursing: Hawaii

Table of contents.

• Find Current Travel Nursing Jobs in Hawaii 2024

Hawaii Licensure Information and Requirements

Hawaii ceu requirements, what is the average travel nursing salary in hawaii.

• How To Become a Travel Nurse in Hawaii With Trusted Nurse Staffing in Three Simple Steps

Why Should You Consider Becoming a Travel Nurse in Hawaii?

What are the high-demand travel nursing specialities in hawaii right now, faqs about hawaii travel nursing, find current travel nurse jobs in hawaii.

For the most up-to-date information on licensure and fees in Hawaii, visit the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs or contact the Professional and Vocational Licensing Division at (808) 586-3000.

Licensure Requirements

Nurses can apply for licensure in Hawaii by exam or by endorsement , and this applies to LPNs, RNs, and APRNs. 

To apply by endorsement , nurses must meet the following licensure requirements:

• The most current revised application found online must be submitted.
• You must provide your fingerprints and submit to a federal criminal background check.
• If you are applying in Hawaii for LPN or RN licensure as an LPN or RN under the laws of another state, territory, or foreign country, you must submit a self-query report from the National Practitioner Data Bank.
• You must provide verification of license completed by the originating state board.
• A state board exam constructed prior to the inception of the SBTPE.
• U.S. nursing program
• Foreign nursing program
• If you answer yes to any questions on the application pertaining to criminal convictions, revoked or suspended licenses, or present investigations or disciplinary actions, further documentation will be required.

Temporary permits can be obtained by completing an application and submitting it along with the following:

• Temporary permit fee
• Application for license (without exam)
• Verification of current U.S. nursing license
• Original “Verification of Employment” form signed by employer in Hawaii
• Proof of mailing “Verification of License” form or Nursys Ⓡ verification

Licensure Fees

Licensure fees are as follows:

• When applying by endorsement, the fees will be between $166 and $234 depending on when the license will be issued.
• Temporary permit fees are $50.

Nurse Licensure Compact Status

Hawaii is not a Nurse Licensure Compact state.

Is Hawaii a Walk-Through State?

Hawaii is not a walk-through state.

Nurses in Hawaii must follow these CEU requirements :

• Complete 30 hours of at least one activity every two years.
• Combining activities to equal 30 hours is not permissible.
• Continuing education by another state is not acceptable.
• Documentation of the completed activity must be provided.
• Maintain continuing competency records for at least four years.
• If you have more than one license (LPN, RN, APRN), you must complete a higher-level learning activity.

The average travel nurse salary in Hawaii is $2,240 per week . It’s important to remember that salaries change depending on location and nursing specialty.

Cities in Hawaii With the Highest Travel Nursing Salaries

The average travel nurse salary in Kamuela, Hawaii, is $2,519 per week .

The average travel nurse salary in Lanai City, Hawaii, is $2,520 per week .

The average travel nurse salary in Waimea, Hawaii, is $2,475 per week .

The average travel nurse salary in Honokaa, Hawaii, is $2,428 per week .

The average travel nurse salary in Kealakekua, Hawaii, is $2,353 per week .

Thousands of Nurses Love Partnering with Trusted Nurse Staffing

Trusted nurse staffing is such a great company to work for and they are so easy to work with. I love using them as my first company for travel nursing!

My recruiter did an amazing job at finding the best fit for me! An outstanding job with communication, updates and ensuring all my questions were answered!!

I have been with Trusted Staffing for about 18 months now. I have essentially been working local contracts, but the experiences have been memorable. My recruiter, is always available when I have a question or concern. Travel nursing is something all nurses should experience. I can't wait until I can do some serious traveling

Every member of this company I’ve interacted with has exceeded my expectations. My recruiter, Alex, is so commutative and goes above and beyond always. I can’t imagine switching to another company!

I have had the best experience with Trusted Nurse Staffing. My recruiter Tom is amazing. He always treats me with respect and as a friend. He is on top of everything I need. And when my Dad passed away, he helped me with time off, no problem and they even sent me a beautiful comfort box that was very helpful. Fully recommend this agency.

How To Become a Travel Nurse in Hawaii With Trusted Nurse Staffing in 3 Simple Steps

Start with our Pronto job search. With Pronto, you can search for assignments based on location, specialty, compensation, shifts, and more. 

From there, you can easily browse the Hawaii listings that look most promising to you. If you don’t see anything that you like right away, you can update your settings and Pronto will notify you when more listings that meet your criteria become available in Hawaii.

Once you’ve discovered the assignment that suits your wants and needs, simply sign up, sign in, and apply.

You can do it all in the Pronto job search, such as applying, uploading your credentials and documentation, entering your available start date, and more.

If you need assistance, don’t worry! Trusted Nurse Staffing can connect you with a team member to ensure you’ve completed the process correctly.

Once a contract is offered to you, simply review and sign and you’re all set to start your Hawaii travel nursing assignment. Maybe you’ll fall in love with the island vibes and find yourself wanting to extend your contract. Or, perhaps you’ve still got a lust for adventure and want to continue onto another state and assignment. Whatever you choose, our staff is here to assist you throughout the process.

You crave island time, beaches, and consistently warm weather. Perhaps you like the upcountry life with fresh locally grown produce and wineries. When you are looking for travel nurse jobs, Hawaii is an attractive option.

Living in Hawaii is synonymous with a slower pace of life called “island time.” If you want to escape the rat race of the mainland and slow down for a while, Hawaii may be the place for you.   

If you want access to some city life, the island of Oahu has the diversity of Honolulu and the surfing paradise of North Beach. You could go hiking up the Koko Crater trail, snorkeling, surfing, or stand-up paddleboarding off the coastline. 

You can also get your fill of history at Pearl Harbor or the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific. There are lots of museums dedicated to local history, both pre- and post-colonization.      

If you’re looking for diverse geography, Maui is a great option. With 17 different microclimates, there is a preferred climate for everyone. Agriculture is abundant on Maui, and you can find fresh, local produce year-round. 

Spend time on the coastline and peruse the shops and restaurants in communities like Lahaina, Kaanapali, and Wailea. Or head upcountry to the charming neighborhood of Makawao. The drive to Hana is an exercise in control as the 64.4-mile-long highway is narrow, winding, and passes over 59 bridges — many of which are only wide enough for one car to pass. Let your adventurous side out, and this road trip will be one you never forget.    

Moving to Hawaii is difficult, but not impossible, without a local contact. As a malihini — a newcomer to Hawaii — you may have difficulty getting a good price on an apartment, finding a job, and many other things. Your recruiter will help you navigate all these things to make your transition as easy as possible, saving you from much of the newcomer stress. 

Becoming a travel nurse in Hawaii is also a great way to get your foot in the door in order to move permanently to the islands. Just like any travel nursing contract, this time allows you to scope out an area and a facility before taking a permanent position. 

Each facility has a distinct culture, and a travel nurse has the luxury of not being committed to one location. Bureaucracy and facility politics are easier to manage when your position is temporary. 

What Are Your Active Travel Nursing Jobs in Honolulu?

Interested in travel nursing jobs in Honolulu, Hawaii? Check out current listings on Pronto and begin your search for travel nursing assignments in Hawaii today. 

What Are Your Active Travel Nursing Jobs in Kahului?

Are you looking for travel nursing jobs in Kahului, Hawaii? With Pronto , you can start your search immediately. To save you time, you can also set up your notifications to alert you to new listings that meet your criteria.

What Are Your Active Travel Nursing Jobs in Kailua?

Hoping to move to Kailua for your next travel nurse assignment? We’ve got you covered. Find the best travel nurse jobs in Hawaii with Trusted Nurse Staffing using Pronto .

Which Hawaii Travel Nurse Assignments Have The Lowest Cost of Living?

This is difficult to say, as most assignments in Hawaii have a high cost of living. However, these cities are easier on the wallet than most:

In the areas popular with tourists, real estate and food costs will be higher. If you want a more laid-back experience, consider less popular locations for your job search. 

Housing For Travel Nurses in Hawaii: How Do I Go About Finding Housing?

“ Choosing to accept a stipend doesn’t mean that your recruiter at Trusted Nurse Staffing won’t be there to help you along the way. Connect with us, and we can give you insights into the various areas and even connect you with rental properties used by travel nurses in the past.”

How Do I Find The Best Travel Nurse Agencies in Hawaii?

Finding the right agency for travel nurse jobs in Hawaii may seem tricky with so many choices, but there are a few things you can do to narrow your search:

• Check out online reviews of nurses who have already taken on travel assignments in Hawaii.
• Speak to recruiters from multiple agencies and get a feel for their level of support and guidance before, during, and after your assignment.
• Know what benefits are offered upfront. Some agencies offer higher pay but fewer benefits and vice versa.

The team at Trusted Nurse Staffing is standing by to help. We’re confident that our pay, benefits, and 24/7 support are above and beyond the industry standard. 

Where Are The Top Travel Nursing Locations in Hawaii?

Larger cities like Honolulu are going to have a larger variety of available assignments, but there are openings in smaller cities.

After you create your online profile, Trusted Nurse Staffing will notify you of open positions as they become available. This saves you the trouble of regularly checking each city of interest. 

What Are The Best Things To Do in Hawaii For Travel Nurses?

Depending on the island you are located on, you’ll have access to beaches and highlands, waterfalls, and hiking opportunities.

If you find yourself in Oahu, Honolulu is never short of diversity. With a global food scene, you can find unique pan-Asian fusion, locally caught seafood, and distinct island flavors. Hawaii, the birthplace of surfing, has waves for every level. The North Shore attracts surfers from around the world during big wave season between November and February.  

If you find yourself in Maui, the sheer number of public beaches does not disappoint. Head inland to the upcountry where the local farmers’ market occurs every Saturday. Maui has 17 different microclimates, which means food is grown year-round. If you want to get even further upcountry, head to Haleakala for a sunrise or sunset. 

Flights are frequent between the islands. Taking a quick flight to another island may be great for a weekend excursion or a celebratory experience at the end of your assignment. 

Interested in Other States? Find Comprehensive Travel Nursing Information for Other States Using The Interactive Map Below

Travel Nursing in Hawaii | Top Paying Specialties & Cities 2023

Hawaii is a top travel nurse destination and not because of the high salaries but because of the sun, sand, surf, and adventures. Hawaii is home to some of the world’s best surfing, crystal blue water, white sandy beaches, and massive volcanos.

Travel nurses will find contracts throughout the islands that seem to have high take-home pay, but unfortunately, the cost of living will bring your monthly salary down substantially. Most travel nurses do not take contracts in Hawaii for the pay but rather for the experiences. ATV adventures, surfing on the North Shore, rappelling down sheer cliffs, and visiting the historic USS Arizona monument are all possibilities in Hawaii.

What are you waiting for? The Aloha State is calling you.

Looking for open travel nurse assignments in Hawaii? Speak with a recruiter today!

How Much Do Travel Nurses Make in Hawaii?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), nurses in Hawaii earn an average annual salary of $106,530 or $51.22 per hour which is more than the national average.

In fact, the top 90% of nurses in Hawaii earn $129,670. The lowest 10% earn an average salary of $75,380 which is just below the national average and still significantly more in some areas of the country.

Unfortunately, the BLS does not differentiate between staff nurses and travel nurses, though the compensation for travel nurses is usually higher and directly reflective of the ongoing need for nurses.

Hawaii is a highly desirable location for travel nurses, and salaries are reflective of that. However, remember that because Hawaii is SO desirable to travel nurses, the pay packages might be less than on the mainland because of the influx of interest in positions. It is important to note that the cost of living is also significantly higher in Hawaii which is reflected in the pay.

Indeed.com reports an average base salary of $2,673 per week or $62.61 per hour with top-paying locations in Waimea, Kailua, Hilo, Honokaa, and Kealakekua. Here’s how they break down:

Highest Paying Nursing Specialties in Hawaii

The highest-paid travel nursing specialties depend on a variety of factors including location within the state, demand, and urgency of needs. In Hawaii, the pay is less in major cities for all specialties. The overall pay is based on demand, especially for specific specialties. As the demand for travel nurses increases, wages also increase.

Historically, medical-surgical nurses, long-term care nurses, and clinic nurses have seen significantly lower rates than other specialties in Hawaii. Travel nurses with additional certifications such as CCRN or RNC, and skill sets such as ECMO or dialysis training will earn higher wages. Travel nurses with BLS, ACLS, and PALS will not see a bump in pay as those are standard certifications that are needed for most nursing positions.

Generally, top-paying travel nurse specialties are:

• Intensive Care Unit (ICU)
• Labor & Delivery
• Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)
• Operating Room (OR)
• Post-anesthesia Care Unit (PACU)

Find open positions today for your specialty.

Top 5 Hospitals in Hawaii

Hawaii has only 28 hospitals across all islands. Four meet high U.S. News standards and are ranked within the state. According to the U.S. News & World Report , these four hospitals were evaluated and ranked. The top five hospitals in Hawaii as of 2022-2023 were as follows:

1. Queen’s Medical Center – Honolulu

• Location : Honolulu
• Nationally Ranked : 3 Specialties
• High Performing : 4 Specialties & 18 Procedures/Conditions

2. Kaiser Permanente Moanalua Medical Center

• High Performing : 1 Specialties & 8 Procedures/Conditions

3. Adventist Health Castle

• Location : Kailua
• High Performing : 7 Procedures/Conditions

4. Straub Medical Center

Cost of Living for Travel Nurses in Hawaii

Hawaii has always had an extremely high cost of living because the majority of supplies including food need to be imported from the mainland. Because Hawaii is completely surrounded by water, all supplies need to either be shipped in or flown in which increases the costs exponentially. Additionally, because of its tropical location, investors continue to buy properties on the island which drives up housing costs.

Cost of living is defined as the amount of money needed to cover basic expenses such as food, taxes, healthcare, and housing. Despite all travel nurse companies providing a stipend for housing , at times it has shown to not be enough. Furthermore, depending on the location – hotels may not be a viable long-term solution.

According to Bestplaces.net , the overall cost of living in Hawaii is 65.7% higher than the national average. It’s important to remember that Hawaii has eight main islands and the cost of living is different on each island. For example, the cost of living in Maui is exponentially higher than the national average. On the other hand, Oahu has a lower cost of living than the national average.

Travel nurses do struggle at times to find housing in Hawaii because it is such a desirable location. Rent prices in Hawaii are significantly more than in other parts of the country. A studio apartment in Hawaii averages $1,457 per month while the national average is $949. A one-bedroom apartment will cost roughly $1,609 while the national average cost is $1,048.

Payscale.com reports on the cost of living in major Hawaii cities including the median home price, median rent, and monthly energy bill. As expected groceries are also significantly higher than the national average.

Pros & Cons of Travel Nursing in Hawaii

With any career, there are pros and cons to the job. Travel nursing is no exception. It’s important to take into consideration your own personal circumstances:

• Family obligations
• Education career goals
• Your specific reasons for wanting to be a travel nurse – some reasons that other nurses might see as a negative may in fact be a positive for you
• Desire to travel and see other parts of the country

Pros of Travel Nursing in Hawaii

• Increased earning potential – Travel nurses have the ability to earn significantly more money than staff nurses, especially in Hawaii. Furthermore, travel nurses actually take home more after taxes due to reimbursements and incentives not being considered “taxable income”. Most travel nurses receive agency-provided housing or have a hefty monthly allowance to put toward housing expenses .
• Travel! – One of the main reasons travel nurses start this adventure is to experience different cities and states that they may not otherwise get to experience. It also is great for nurses who are not sure where they ultimately want to settle down. Hawaii is one of the most desired travel nurse locations year-round because of its location. Volcanoes, sandy beaches, and sunny weather leave it at the top of most travel nurses’ (and let’s face it, all tourists’) desired lists.
• Flexibility – You have the ability to take a contract when you want and where you want. If you really want to travel to Hawaii, you have the ability to find a contract that fits your needs. This can be ideal for travel nurses who are in school or want to be home for the holiday season. It is also easier to get a permanent staff position if there is a hospital that you eventually want to work at.
• Networking – Most don’t consider this a huge pro of travel nursing but it is! With an increase in the number of nurses that go on for an advanced degree, making connections with different hospitals, providers, and other nurses can be very important when trying to find preceptors for graduate-level clinical rotations.
• Avoid hospital and unit politics – Most don’t like to admit it, but bedside nursing comes with drama and politics. It can be as simple as a hierarchy based on seniority or something more serious. Being a travel nurse allows you to avoid all of this by not being fully invested in the unit but rather helping out for a very specific amount of time.

Cons of Travel Nursing in Hawaii

• Always the new person – Being new to a unit can be exciting but can also be frustrating or even lonely. Not knowing anyone on the unit can affect the type of help you will get within your work environment. Thankfully, Hawaii usually has a decent amount of travel nurses making it easier to form quick friendships and exploration buddies.
• Not the best assignments – Some hospitals will assign travel nurses patients just like any other nurse on the unit. Others will assign them the easiest patients, the hardest patients, or the ones that no one wants to deal with. This may not be ideal, but it is the reality of being a travel nurse, especially in a highly desired state.
• First to float to another unit – Despite being contracted to a specific unit, most travel nurses will have to float to other parts of the hospital within their skill set. Some travel nurses, depending on their specialty, will have non-float clauses in their contracts. This again will make you the new person which can affect how others perceive you as well as assist you throughout the shift.
• Finding a place to live – All travel nurse companies offer their nurses places to live during each contract. However, it is not always in the location that you want, or it may not have the amenities or perks that you’re looking for. Frankly, it may not fit your needs. Contracts will offer a housing stipend instead, which most travel nurses take, but then the work of finding appropriate housing falls on you.
• Changing health insurance policies – With each contract may come a new health insurance policy. This will be dependent on the agency that you work with. If you switch between multiple agencies , then there will most likely be a lapse in your health insurance. However, nurses can opt for private insurance and pay out of pocket. That way, when the assignment ends, you won’t lose your insurance. This can be important, especially if you are interested in taking time off between contracts or are interested in an extended travel break.

Things To Do on Your Days Off in Hawaii

Hawaii is a dream location for travel nurses. Nurses typically work three days a week which leaves plenty of time to explore the islands. There are sandy beaches, crystal blue water, some of the best surfing in the world, and insane landscapes.

National Monuments and Parks

Hawaii’s islands are known for some of the most iconic national monuments and parks including Pearl Harbor National Memorial , Pu’ukohola Heiau National Historic Site , and Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park . The highlight of the memorial is a visit to the USS Arizona Memorial which allows visitors the opportunity to view the historic sunken battleship that was targeted during WWII. Volcano National Park encompasses the summits of two of the world’s most active volcanoes- Kīlauea and Mauna Loa – and is a designated International Biosphere Reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Sandy Beaches and Massive Waves

Completely surrounded by water, Hawaii has no shortage of beaches. Travel nurses can spend days relaxing on white or black sandy beaches and catch some of the best waves in the world. The famous North Shore on O’ahu is more than seven miles and is famous for hosting the world’s premier surfing competition. Travel nurses interested in surfing will want to land contracts between November and February as waves can swell to almost thirty feet. But don’t worry – if you are new to surfing there are plenty of other beaches that are ideal locations to learn.

Nature Adventures

All of the main islands have plenty of outdoor activities but Kauai nicknamed the Garden Island is the lushest. Serving as the backdrop for Jurassic Park and other outdoor adventure movies, Kauai is considered a paradise on earth to many. Home to Waimea Canyon, also known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, can only fully be seen by aircraft. There are waterfalls, red volcanic dirt, and vibrant green scenery.

Hawaii’s islands have plenty of outdoor hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts, but O’ahu has the best hiking trails that cover the two volcanic mountain ranges. Kauai has the famous Kauai’s Na Pali Coast trail which is ideal for advanced hikers because it is 22 miles long with multiple elevation changes on the edge of the cliffs.

Why Hawaii?

The real question is – why NOT Hawaii? Hawaii is the perfect location for adventure-loving travel nurses. Travel nurse salaries are higher in Hawaii, but that is also because the cost of living is higher than on the mainland. Most supplies and groceries have to be flown in, and rent is also higher than in most other locations.

Hawaii has the sun, sand, and nature. Nurses that are not typically into outdoor activities will still find Hawaii a desirable location. Unfortunately, because Hawaii is such a desirable location, travel nurses may find it difficult to find the perfect contract. Seasoned and newer travel nurses may have to accept a less-than-ideal contract, especially if Hawaii is a must on your travel nurse bucket list. But don’t worry – the excitement and adventure that awaits you in The Aloha State will make it all worthwhile.

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What it’s like to work as a travel nurse in hawaii.

When people think of travel nursing, they often think of the exciting places it could take them , and Hawaii is often at the top of the list. After all, what could be better than travel nursing in Hawaii? You get to spend a few months exploring the island, you help people along the way, and you get paid for it. Kelly Kilcoyne, a NICU travel nurse, got to do just that on her first travel nursing assignment. Here’s what Kelly learned and some of the things she was able to experience while travel nursing in Hawaii .

Getting started in travel nursing

Kelly started her nursing career in Scranton, Pennsylvania. About two years in, she decided to give travel nursing a try. She originally wanted to get her feet wet by taking a local travel nursing job, but her recruiter, Sarah, encouraged her to give Hawaii a try.

It wasn’t long before she got a call at 11 p.m. from a Hawaii number. That phone call turned into an interview, which led to Kelly’s first travel nursing job in Oahu . She lived in Waikiki — a five-minute walk from the beach, where she could literally get her feet wet whenever she wanted.

Experiencing a new culture

The culture of Hawaii is quite different from the mainland United States. It’s known for being laid back and casual, and Kelly noticed this during her work there. For example, she wasn’t “Kelly” or “the nurse,” she was “Auntie Kelly.”

“Auntie is a term of respect and endearment, especially if you were taking care of little kids, so I was Auntie Kelly and all the nurses were Auntie or Uncle,” Kelly explains.

Hawaii’s related culture meant that Kelly grew close to the parents of the babies she took care of.

“It was a mix of personal and professional because some of those babies had been there so long,” Kelly says. “The parents know everybody by name. You know the parents and all the family members, and you know what time of day they like to come. You’re excited to tell them news like, ‘Oh, he took his first bottle today.’ It was always really nice.”

In the continental United States, we’re used to driving just about anywhere within a state, but because Hawaii is made up of islands that are, by definition, separated by water, parents often had to fly back and forth to visit their babies in the NICU.

Making new friends

One intimidating part of travel nursing can be the challenge of making friends while on assignment . Before her assignment, Kelly was worried she would feel like an outsider in a tight-knit community. However, Kelly found that there were other travel nurses in Hawaii, and she quickly made friends with the other travelers. It was nice to have a social group to hang out with when she was off shift. Kelly said she still talks to the friends she made in Hawaii even though it’s been more than two years.

Kelly was able to make friends outside of the travelers too. She got to know the staff and other nurses of the hospital very well. And one day, she just joined a group of strangers for a game of beach volleyball. It all goes back to that laid-back attitude of Hawaii. Hawaiians are known for being open and welcoming, so it’s a great place for travel nurses to go.

Exploring the Islands

Although the culture of travel nursing in Hawaii is great, that’s not usually the main reason people want to take a travel nursing job there. They want to lounge on white beaches, hike volcanoes, and chase waterfalls. Kelly had three months to do all of that and more when she wasn’t working.

When she had four days off, she flew to Maui and drove the beautiful-but-white-knuckle Road to Hana . She also snorkeled, where she got to see tropical fish, bright coral reefs, and sea turtles. On her shorter periods of time off from work, she explored Oahu. She hiked to see incredible waterfalls, watched surfers, or just lounged on the beach.

“Some of my favorite days were just unwinding because I could walk to the beach. I got myself a library card, rented a couple of books, and just brought a little chair to the beach and a little drink and snack and I’d just relax,” said Kelly. 

Kelly learned to appreciate Hawaii in its small moments as well. She talked about watching the sunset as she drove into work for the night shift. Then, at the end of her shift, if things were stressful, she could come home, change into her swimsuit, and then sit by the ocean to decompress. 

In any assignment, travel nurses should take full advantage of wherever their job is, but this is especially the case with Hawaii. Kelly recommends, “Just jump into it with both feet. Hawaii was so wonderful, and I did so many wonderful things. But for every awesome thing I did there was still five other things I could have done.”

Looking for your next travel nursing adventure? Give us a call at 800.866.0407 or view today’s travel nurse job opportunities .

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About the author.

Kathleen Stone

Kathleen Stone is a writer for RNnetwork from Salt Lake City, Utah. In her spare time, she loves going to the desert, trying new foods and being with family.

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Travel Care Hawaii is operating in Hawaii and California. We proudly share our care professionals with our clients in the community and with our partners in care, such as hospitals, skilled nursing facilities and retirement communities.

We hire travel RNs  for contracts between 13-39 weeks. Its is our mission to staff ambitious caregivers on beautiful staffing destinations where they can give the best they have in the most beautiful of locations in Hawaii and California. Are you looking for that palm tree on the beach type of relaxation after a good day of work? Travel Care Hawaii is where it starts!

Are you just as lucky as we are and living in Hawaii? We have many great work opportunities for you, part-time and full-time on many different locations in Hawaii, both in hospital and skilled nursing. Because we have local presence, we will be able to match you well with the job options out here.

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