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The Best Hawaiian Island to Visit

An overview of the hawaiian islands.

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Choosing Which Island to Visit

Deciding which is the best Hawaiian Island is an integral step in planning your trip to the Hawaiian Islands. The word best is subjective, of course, as each island has its own unique charm and personality. It’s also worth noting that while many people visit just one island, others choose to do a little Hawaiian Island hopping and see even more.

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After you’ve taken the quiz, come back here and get an even better idea of what each island has to offer.

If Oahu garnered the most points on your scorecard then you're probably someone who enjoys the big city, fine accommodations and dining, and the general atmosphere that comes with the hustle and bustle of city life. Honolulu is the 11th largest city in the US and is probably where you'll spend a lot of your time. Oahu has the best selection of both cultural and historical sites in the islands, including good museums.

This island is an excellent place for water sports, and the beaches are sure to please. People just love Oahu, and it lives up to its nickname of the "Gathering Place." Want to learn more about Oahu? Just visit our  Oahu Guide ,  Oahu Accommodations , or  Oahu Tours & Activities  sections.

Diamond Head Crater on Oahu

A lot of folks say Maui no ka oi which means "Maui is the best." Whether or not your scorecard shows this, Maui is a fine location for almost all visitors to the islands. It's the middle ground between the big city on Oahu and the country life of Kauai and the Big Island. A lot of folks choose Maui as their honeymoon destination, and many love the large selection of condos available here.

The Hana Highway is one of the world's premier driving attractions and Haleakala, one of Hawaii's National Parks, is an incredible place to visit. And everyone from golfers to windsurfers will find plenty of adventure on Maui. Maui's nickname is the "Valley Isle," and when you arrive, you'll see why. Haleakala to the east and the West Maui mountains to the west - incredible! Want to learn more about Maui? Just visit our  Maui Guide ,  Maui Accommodations , or  Maui Tours & Activities  sections.

Maui's Lush Waterfalls

Hawaii's Big Island

If the Big Island topped your list, we don't blame you. It's our favorite, too- and for good reason. The Big Island is by far the most diverse of all the Hawaiian Islands, and it's BIG. In fact, it's the size of all the other islands COMBINED! From barren grasslands to lush jungle, and from lava fields to snow-capped mountains - it's all here. Plus, it's the only island where you can literally walk on land younger than you are!

The Big Island offers a solid selection of world-class resorts on the Kohala (Gold) Coast, condos all around the island, and excellent B&Bs in both Kona and near the Volcano area. The Volcano area is a great place for birdwatching, too. The Big Island also is bustling with activities- from hiking to a recent lava flow or riding horseback in the gorgeous Waipio Valley. Want to learn more about the Big Island of Hawaii? Just visit our  Big Island Guide ,  Big Island Accommodations , or  Big Island Tours & Activities  sections.

Big Island's Southernmost Tip

If you like all things green, like seclusion, and love to hike - OK, if you're into nature... welcome home! Kauai offers up pure paradise to anyone who loves the great outdoors. Kauai is the oldest of the major Hawaiian Islands and has certainly earned its nickname of the "Garden Isle." Beautiful flora and fauna abound around the island. As the oldest Hawaiian Island, Kauai is also home to some of the world’s best beaches.

But what really sets Kauai apart is that the bulk of it can't be reached by car. That means grab your hiking pole and hit the trails! Kauai offers what we believe are the best hiking trails in Hawaii; from the beautiful coastal Kalalau trail on the NaPali coast to a hike inland to see Waialeale's "weeping wall," you can't beat the hiking on Kauai. The Garden Isle is also home to Waimea Canyon, which Mark Twain called the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific." Kauai is definitely a more romantic island, as well. The only downside for many is the weather, as all things green means lots of rain. But don't let that worry you- Kauai is an incredible island to visit; our personal second favorite in the chain. Want to learn more about Kauai? Just visit our Kauai Guide , Kauai Accommodations , or Kauai Tours & Activities sections.

Sunset on Kauai

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These are the best islands in Hawaii, according to frequent visitors

No matter where you go in America's 50th state, Hawaii's islands offer a wide variety of topographies, accommodations, activities and experiences.

Related: The best ways to get to Hawaii using points and miles

Hawaii is an incredibly unique place to visit, and each island has its own distinctive vibe. How do you choose between so many different versions of paradise? Here's a guide to finding the right Hawaiian island to visit on your next vacation.

• First-time visitors to Hawaii.
• Single travelers.
• Large groups.
• Budget travelers.

Oahu is Hawaii's most bustling and urban island. It's home to the state's largest city and commercial center, Honolulu, which is known for an epic rush hour that sometimes rivals the one in Los Angeles. Within city limits, Waikiki Beach is the place to see and be seen — shop, dine and enjoy the amenities of huge high-rise resorts.

Related: The best time to visit Hawaii this year

But Oahu's offerings are more diverse than just Honolulu. The growing resort area of Ko Olina is not as built up but still has several upscale accommodations, including Disney's Aulani Resort and the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina . On the way to Ko Olina from Honolulu is Pearl Harbor , one of the most visited historic sites anywhere on the islands.

Oahu's North Shore provides another vibe that's downright chill with its beach-hopping, food-truck-loving, small-town surfer scene. Hikers will find plenty of trails all over Oahu, from the peaks of Diamond Head to less-traveled spots like Makiki Valley and Waimea Valley. Some popular spots do require advance reservations.

Oahu's gateway for travelers, Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) has the most air service of any location on the islands, making it the cheapest destination for travelers from the mainland. It also offers the most nonstop flights.

Related: Best ways to redeem points and miles on Hawaiian Airlines

• Travelers with kids.
• Multigenerational travel.
• Anyone looking for resort-based condo properties.

The second-most-visited island in the state and also its second largest, Maui is home to the famed Road to Hana , Haleakala National Park and the best whale watching anywhere in Hawaii during the winter months.

For many travelers, a vacation on Maui is the best of both worlds. The island offers some of the same infrastructure, conveniences and activities of Oahu without the traffic and urban sprawl. It's possible to have an active vacation here and visit a lot of attractions, or you can just enjoy some island rest and relaxation at a resort.

Maui is a great pick for families with kids of school age because of its many activities. It works well for multigenerational groups because it has experiences that grandparents and grandkids can enjoy, such as the Maui Ocean Center or catching a sunrise at Haleakala National Park.

The island of Maui also has many amazing hotels and resorts at a wide variety of price points. Most are clustered in two major areas: on the Lahaina/Ka'anapali/Kapalua corridor on the northwest side of the island and in Kihei/Wailea farther south.

Related: 29 hotels in Maui, Hawaii, you can book with points

For its size, Maui offers an impressive variety of hotels for travelers to book a hotel stay with points. Most major chains are represented, and many properties offer condo accommodations that work for families or larger groups. The Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa ; The Westin Ka'anapali Ocean Resort Villas; The Westin Nanea Ocean Villas, Ka'anapali; the Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort ; and the Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort have all scored well with TPG contributors and readers.

Hawaii (the Big Island)

• Romantic couples getaways.
• Luxury travelers.
• Adventure seekers.

The island of Hawaii, called the Big Island , is the largest and newest island in the chain. Because it's so big, seeing everything requires close to a week, but it offers many different travel experiences from day to day.

The vast majority of Big Island visitors stick to the western side of the island near the city of Kailua-Kona and the Kohala Coast, where the large resorts are located. Luxury seekers can enjoy high-end properties like the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai ; the Mauna Lani , an Auberge Resort; and the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Autograph Collection.

Families on a moderate budget can find ample hotel offerings, too. In particular, the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa and the Hilton Waikoloa Village cater to travelers with kids. Pool complexes are a big draw.

Related: Top hotels on the Big Island, Hawaii, for your next vacation

Although it's entirely possible to spend a week on the Big Island relaxing on the beach of a resort, the island can also be an adventure traveler's paradise. On the northern part of the island, travelers can zip line, take all-terrain-vehicle tours, jump into waterfalls, scuba dive or snorkel with giant manta rays, or flume down historic sugar cane irrigation channels.

On the southern part of the island, you can visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, although some areas remain closed for safety precautions. The town of Hilo on the eastern side of the island has its own local vibe that can be a great getaway for travelers looking for an authentic Hawaiian experience.

• Romantic couples getaways and babymoons.
• Adventure junkies.
• Relaxation seekers.

Kauai's lush greenery makes it, in my opinion, the most beautiful of all the Hawaiian islands. It is home to waterfalls, hiking trails and a variety of eco-adventures. Most travelers seek out Kauai to avoid the hustle and bustle of Oahu and Maui and have a more unplugged vacation experience.

Unfortunately, Kauai's natural beauty also makes it less reliable as a vacation destination. The island's greenery comes from the substantial rainfall it gets, which makes it possible that your vacation in paradise is a damp one. For that reason, it's probably best to plan for a longer trip just in case the weather doesn't cooperate all the time.

Hotel offerings on Kauai are ample. For families, the hands-down winner is the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa in Poipu, known for having one of the best waterslides and pools anywhere on the island. The Grand Club lounge is quite special, too, with easy access to breakfast, drinks, snacks and more.

Poipu to the south is home to quite a few other major resorts, including the Sheraton Kauai Resort . Princeville to the north has many others, such as The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas .

Related: True aloha spirit at the Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort

Smaller islands: Lanai and Molokai

• Returning Hawaii visitors looking for new experiences.

Although the vast majority of travelers to Hawaii visit Oahu, Maui, the Big Island and Kauai, there are two smaller islands that tourists can visit as well. Getting to both of them requires a little extra effort, as neither has air service from the mainland.

Lanai, the island owned by Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison, is accessible by boat from Maui. It has two Four Seasons resorts on the island (one is adults-only), so it's also luxurious and pricey.

Related: Off the beaten path: Tips on visiting and exploring Lanai, Hawaii

Molokai, by contrast, has no name-brand accommodations, making it a place of refuge for local residents and travelers looking for authentic Hawaii travel experiences. Molokai has commuter air service from HNL and Maui's two airports: Kahului Airport (OGG) and Kapalua Airport (JHM).

Related: Off the beaten path: Tips on visiting and exploring Molokai, Hawaii

I wouldn't recommend that travelers head to either of these places until they've visited several of the larger Hawaiian islands first. You'll likely get more out of them (and know which one is the right fit for you) once you have more context to appreciate them.

Hawaii - The Big Island   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Sean Davey | Aurora Photos

Why Go To Hawaii - The Big Island

Geographically unique, the island of Hawai'i (or the Big Island, as it's more commonly known) boasts everything from black sand beaches to snow-covered peaks, from hardened lava deserts to steamy and lush rainforests. And it's still growing. Hawai'i's trump card – the active, fire-spitting Kilauea volcano – has been increasing the island's land mass since 1983. During the most recent eruption in May 2018, volcanic activity caused eruptions, earthquakes and the collapse of the Halemaumau crater. It's true that if you arrived here hoping for a stereotypical Hawaiian getaway that's full of luaus and a honeymoon-esque atmosphere, you've probably missed the mark. But the hiking trails and state parks that are here hold sights that no other Hawaiian Island can boast of. And the beaches are colors you've probably never seen. If you've only got a short amount of time to explore the island, sign up for one of the best Hawaii tours to take advantage of the expertise of an in-the-know local.

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• # 3 in Which Hawaiian Island is the Best to Visit? Our 2024 Ranking
• # 4 in Best Honeymoon Destinations in the USA
• # 6 in Best Family Beach Vacations in the U.S.

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Best of Hawaii - The Big Island

Best hotels in hawaii - the big island.

• # 1 in Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection
• # 2 in Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
• # 3 in Fairmont Orchid

Best Things to Do in Hawaii - The Big Island

• # 1 in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park
• # 2 in 'Akaka Falls State Park
• # 3 in Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area

Popular Tours

Night Manta Ray Adventure on the Big Island, Hawaii

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Mauna Kea Summit Sunset and Stars - Hilo Kona Waikoloa Pick Up

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from $ 269.00

Hawaii - The Big Island Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Hawaii's Big Island is between September and November. That's when the island's generally reasonable room rates take the most significant plunge. Temperatures remain constant throughout the year – generally in the high 70s or low 80s – so you might want to avoid the priciest season, from December to March, unless you like to surf. Regardless of when you plan to go, take some time to review a few travel insurance policies, which range from travel medical insurance (ideal if you plan to trek through Volcanoes National Park) to COVID-19 travel insurance – useful in the event you and/or a travel companion gets sick.

Weather in Hawaii - The Big Island

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

You will need a camera We did mention the flowing lava and the black sand beaches, right? Well, your best bet for seeing the former is at night, though you should call the  Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park 's visitor center to check on Kilauea before you head out.

You will need a sweater Those snow-capped mountains aren't an optical illusion. The higher elevations of the Big Island make it cooler on this island than others in the chain.

You will need all-wheel drive If you're driving (and we recommend that you do ), you'll soon learn that the island's varied terrain is easier to cover in a sturdier car.

How to Save Money in Hawaii - The Big Island

Stay in Hilo  You won't be near the west side beaches that tourists love so much, but there are a terrific selection of bed-and-breakfasts in this area. And you can load up on affordable souvenirs, snacks and more at the weekly  Hilo Farmers Market . Plus, you'll be closer to  Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park .

Take the bus  You might miss some of the Big Island's splendor this way, but the public bus charges just $2 per trip.

Plan a fall trip  Tourism slows on Hawaii's Big Island in October and November. It's only a small window, but you could find a great package deal on some of the four-star hotels around this time.

What to Eat

Expect to encounter plenty of Hawaiian fusion restaurants in the hotel areas, serving shredded pork,  poi  (Hawaiian dessert) and other regional favorites. Those in the tourist industry expect vacationers to want what they perceive as authentic Hawaiian cuisine, and the restaurants are more than willing to provide. Fresh seafood is also a staple in many restaurants, as is locally grown produce. Kona coffee is also something you'll want to try in Big Island and perhaps take home a bag or two. To taste test at the source, head to Kona Coffee Living History Museum , Hula Daddy Kona Coffee or Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation . Of course, you can also try a cup of Kona at Big Island coffee shops and breakfast joints. 

You'll find the best eateries are the establishments on the Kohala coast, near Kona, but you should be prepared to pay the special "tourist" price. ULU Ocean Grill at the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai earns high praise for its delectable menu and ocean views, but it'll cost you. There are cheaper spots in Kona, such as 808 Grindz Café, but for more reasonable prices, head to Hilo establishments like Hilo Bay Café , which earns high marks from travelers for its sushi, and local favorites like Paul's Place and Pineapples . For cheaper eats, try Puka Puka Kitchen.

Crime is rare on the Big Island. Your primary concern should be water safety. While the water temperature is almost always agreeable, winter surf can get very rough, especially along the north shore and on the beaches in the west coast. Strong currents have caused drownings in the past, so swim with caution and never enter the water alone or without the supervision of a lifeguard. If you plan to hike or walk along the coastline, be sure to wear sneakers or protective footwear so that your feet aren't exposed to sharp rocks. You should also wear sunscreen, especially at higher altitudes.

Getting Around Hawaii - The Big Island

The best way to get around Hawaii's Big Island is by car. The island is simply too large to affordably and conveniently navigate without one. You can pick up a rental car at either the Kona International Airport (KOA) or the Hilo International Airport (ITO), or if you want to let go of some serious cash, you could take a taxi from the terminal to your hotel. Once near your lodging, you might be able to get around town on the island bus system, just keep in mind that its schedule is not always convenient for tourists. 

Many travelers who visit the Big Island have a connecting flight from  O'ahu 's Honolulu International Airport (HNL), from which you'll fly into Hilo airport on the eastern side. Kona airport near the west side will probably be more convenient if you're staying by the Kona or Kohala coast.

Snorkelers like to visit  Kealakekua Bay with the hopes of spotting tropical fish, sea turtles and Hawaiian spinner dolphins.

Explore More of Hawaii - The Big Island

Things To Do

Best hotels.

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Honolulu - Oahu

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The Best Island to Visit in Hawaii for the First Time

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Table of Contents

Which Hawaiian island to visit? Check your must-haves

Big island at a glance, maui at a glance, kauai at a glance, oahu at a glance, if it's your first trip to hawaii.

First-timers to Hawaii struggle to pick the perfect island. So how, in this Pacific archipelago of more than 130 islands and islets, do you find one with beautiful beaches, stunning emerald mountains, surreal volcanic landscapes, authentic Polynesian culture, great golf courses, fantastic snorkeling, breathtaking waterfalls and foodie experiences galore?

Easy. Just head for any of the four islands accessible nonstop from the U.S. mainland — Oahu, Maui, Kauai or the Big Island of Hawaii — and you'll have it all. But how do you pick from these four finalists? If it's your first time in Hawaii, your ideal island will depend on your travel style and to-do list.

For most travelers visiting Hawaii for the first time, the Big Island of Hawaii is an appealing option because it offers the most diverse experiences. But before you book a flight here, make sure this is really the best island for you.

Here's our guide to Hawaii travel for beginners.

Most of the things you'll want to do and see in Hawaii — from luaus to waterfall hikes to horseback riding and ziplining — are available on all four major islands.

But if one of the following activities in this Hawaii travel guide is on your must-do list, the choice is clear for your best island to visit in Hawaii for the first time.

Traversing an active volcano: Every island has dormant volcanoes to explore, but the Big Island is the only place you'll have a chance to see lava flowing. Check this National Park Service web page for Kilauea eruption updates (or try to time your visit with Free Days ).

Driving the Road to Hana: This world-famous trek, with stops at waterfalls, a eucalyptus grove, roadside eats and more, is on Maui.

Touring the Napali Coast: Kauai is home to this breathtaking stretch of seaside cliffs dropping down to turquoise blue waters, which you can tour by catamaran, helicopter or kayak or hiking trail.

Paying respects at Pearl Harbor: For WWII history buffs, Oahu is the place to go.

» Learn more: Should I island hop in Hawaii?

With over 4,000 square miles, Big Island (also known as Hawaii Island) has a lot to offer travelers who don't mind a lot of driving. Snow-capped mountains (yes, snow in Hawaii), stunning beaches, lava fields that make you feel like you're on the moon's surface — they're all here.

Big Island highlights

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park has more than 520 square miles of volcanic landscapes to explore, including lava tubes, steam vents, petroglyphs, rainforest trails and, if Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of volcanoes and fire, cooperates, flowing lava.

Has the only green- and black-sand beaches in Hawaii.

Offers night snorkeling with manta rays.

Mauna Kea's observatory is a must-visit for stargazers.

Light pollution is kept to a minimum on the Big Island, which helps the astronomers on Mauna Kea and makes for a surreal nighttime experience when driving around.

Big Island drawbacks

It requires a lot of driving to see it all.

Resorts on the beach can be pricey.

During dry seasons, the Kona Coast area can seem parched and arid.

Big Island tips

Fly into Kona International Airport to land on the sunny, beachy side of the island. Fly into rainy Hilo International Airport if you want to make a beeline for Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

You will certainly want to rent a car here since the island's best offerings are spread out.

The Kona Inn Shopping Village is fun for dining and strolling, but it's not the best area to stay because it's touristy and lacks a good beach.

Where to earn or redeem points on the Big Island

For Marriott Bonvoy members , the Westin Hapuna Beach Resort is located on Hapuna Beach, which is regularly considered one of the nicest beaches in the world. Based on a recent search, the property has rooms starting at 71,000 points per night.

IHG Rewards members can stay at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Kailua-Kona at 40,000 points per night.

» Learn more: The best times to visit Hawaii, broken down by travel style

Waves lap at the shoreline in this Maui beach scene. (Getty Images)

Maui is the second largest island in Hawaii and offers many beaches, hiking trails, historical sites and scenic views. It has a mix of resort towns where you can hang out at the beach, and undeveloped areas with rainforests and coastal dunes to explore. If you’re interested in biology and conservation, learn about the many plants and animals that are unique to Maui.

Maui highlights

Haleakala, a dormant volcano, offers a once-in-a-lifetime sunrise experience, plus great hikes and cycling.

The Road to Hana can be a slow drive through a tropical paradise.

Excellent whale-watching November through February — often without leaving dry land.

Black Rock in the Kaanapali area, between the Sheraton Maui and the Royal Lahaina Resort, has accessible snorkeling right off the beach.

Maui drawbacks

Resort areas can feel like one big, manicured golf course.

Activities are fewer and farther between.

Beach resorts can be pricey, especially in Wailea.

Maui's two main resort areas, Kaanapali and Wailea, offer some of the best accommodations for visitors who want a relaxing resort vacation on the beach with all the conveniences and amenities.

Road conditions on the Hana Highway can be tricky — or even treacherous. Consider taking a tour or renting a vehicle that can handle challenging terrain.

Rental car insurance may not cover you on some roads around Hana. Learn your rental car company's terms and credit card insurance coverage before you head out.

Mama's Fish House , a favorite destination for Maui-bound foodies, can book up three to six months in advance.

Old Lahaina has a wealth of museums and historical sites for history buffs, offering a glimpse into Maui's fascinating past.

Where to earn or redeem points on Maui

World of Hyatt members can stay at the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa , which is located at Ka’anapali Beach. The hotel has a half-acre pool, an on-site luau, oceanside golf course and more. The property is a Hyatt Category 7 hotel and award nights start at 25,000 points per night.

Travelers rich in Hilton Honors points can find rooms at the luxurious Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort starting around 110,000 points per night for a standard room reward. Based on a scan of the hotel’s calendar, it seems as though the property requires a minimum booking of at least two nights.

» Learn more: Maui trip planning — Kaanapali or Wailea?

Backpacker on the Kalalau Trail on Kauai's Napali Coast. (Getty Images)

Home to just about 74,000 residents — a tiny number compared to Oahu's population of nearly 1 million — Kauai is the place for travelers looking to spend less time around humans and more around spinner dolphins, sunbathing monk seals, sea turtles, free-roaming chickens and abundant natural beauty.

Kauai highlights

Home to the breathtaking Napali Coast, which can be explored by catamaran, kayak, helicopter or hiking the 11-mile trail Kalalau Trail.

Queen's Bath, near Princeville on the island's northern side, is a stunning natural tide pool you can explore or swim in when the ocean waters are calm.

Explore Waimea Canyon, the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," on a hike or with easy stops along a driving tour.

Kauai drawbacks

Sandy beaches, convenient for visitors, are fewer and smaller than on other islands.

Bugs and big spiders may make for unwelcome guests in hotel rooms and condos.

A limited number of restaurants in resort areas.

In the winter, ocean waters turn treacherous on the island's north side. Stick with safer southern swimming spots like Poipu Beach in these colder months.

Read up on the safety of Kauai helicopter tours, as there have been several fatal crashes.

Apply early for a permit to hike the Kalalau Trail, as they sometimes sell out.

Where to earn or redeem points on Kauai

The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa , which is located on Poipu Beach, is an eco-friendly property with a golf course and spa. This is a Category 7 hotel and rooms start at 25,000 points per night at the off-peak rate.

Hilton loyalists will find rooms at the Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay starting at 60,000 Honors points per night for a standard room reward.

» Learn more: The cheapest ways to fly to Hawaii using points and miles

Hotels and resorts dominate the skyline along Waikiki Beach. (Getty Images)

Oahu, home to the state capital Honolulu and its bustling Waikiki district, is two vacation destinations in one. First, it's a place where you can lounge on the sand steps from literally hundreds of restaurants. Or jump in a car for a short drive to some of the most beautiful unspoiled beaches, botanical gardens and snorkeling spots in the world.

Oahu highlights

It's considered to have the best beaches in Hawaii.

A shopaholic's heaven, especially for luxury brands like Hermes, Saint Laurent, Harry Winston, Chanel, Dior, Jimmy Choo and many more.

Several budget-friendly accommodations, with hotels steps from the beach starting around $100 per night and some condo properties even lower.

Pearl Harbor National Memorial has four attractions, but the must-see is the U.S.S. Arizona Memorial.

An easy stop off Kamehameha Highway on the North Shore, Laniakea Beach, better known as Turtle Beach, attracts grazing sea turtles you can see right from the sand.

Byodo-In Temple offers a serene escape in a mountainous rainforest setting.

Reservations for world-famous snorkeling spot Hanauma Bay open up two days in advance and can get snapped up in minutes. Visit the Hanauma Bay booking site at 7 a.m. on the nose two days before you plan to visit to grab your spot.

Waikiki is the only place in Hawaii where you don't really need a rental car , but get one for at least a day so you can explore some of the beautiful, unspoiled parts of Oahu.

An umbrella and beach lounger set can cost up to $85 but may be worthwhile since it gives you a shady Waikiki home base for a whole day.

Aspiring surfers can get lessons on the gentle waves just steps from any Waikiki hotel.

Oahu drawbacks

Waikiki is very crowded and dense.

There's lots of traffic around the island, especially during rush hour. Hotel rooms on lower floors can get a lot of street noise.

Parking and resort fees combined can eat up $100 per day of your travel budget. You can save money by explicitly booking Oahu hotels without resort fees .

Where to earn and redeem points on Oahu

Wyndham Rewards members can stay just steps from the beach at the Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Waikiki , starting at 30,000 points per night.

The Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa , right across the street from the beach, has rooms starting at 20,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

» Learn more: How to travel to Honolulu on points and miles

Chances are, the Big Island of Hawaii has everything you're looking for. But depending on what you want to do, one of the other islands accessible from the mainland — Maui, Oahu or Kauai — could be a better fit.

Now that you know where to go in Hawaii for your first trip, take this final tip to heart:

Pick just one island for visits of eight days or less. Otherwise, you'll spend too much of your precious vacation time in long lines at airports, hotel check-in desks and car rental agencies.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5%-6.5% Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year). After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

$300 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!

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options.

75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

First-timer’s guide to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

Apr 18, 2024 • 11 min read

The scale and ferocity of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is a wonder to experience © Yiming Chen / Getty Images

Unsurprisingly, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park on Hawaiʻi Island is one of the state’s most popular attractions.

This incredible landscape is home to two massive volcanoes – Kīlauea being one of the world’s most active – and stretches from sea level to the summit of Mauna Loa, one of the world’s largest. Sprawling across 333,259 acres on the island's southeastern side, the park is one of the most dynamic and diverse in the US.

Its ever-changing landscape boasts an assortment of terrain, from lush rainforests and barren lava fields to a volcano often dusted with snow every winter. Yes, even in Hawaiʻi!

So grab those hiking boots and binoculars and use our insider guide to get the most out of your first trip to this unique national park.

When is the best time to visit Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park? 

There isn’t an especially bad time to visit the park, which sees nearly two million visitors annually. The weather on the Islands doesn’t vary much, with temperatures fluctuating between 66-85°F throughout the year. Winter and early spring, though, tend to be rainier and cooler than other times of the year and hurricane season runs from June to November, which can mean tropical storms, whipping winds and torrential rain.

The busiest travel seasons in Hawaiʻi are summer and winter – summer is peak vacation time for families and winter lures travelers eager to escape colder climes. Expect more people on trails and longer waits for parking during these periods.

Spring and fall are slower travel months and ideal times to visit the park. Trekking conditions are much more comfortable without the intense summer heat and you’ll likely find better airfare prices and hotel rates at nearby hotels. The park does get a surge of visitors during spring break and around the weekend of the annual Merrie Monarch Festival , a week-long hula competition based in Hilo around late March or early April.

Tuesday is the busiest day at the park – pick another day if at all possible. This is when the Pride of America , a cruise ship that sails around the Islands, docks in Hilo. Many of its 2000 passengers head to the national park, hitting popular stops like the Kīlauea Visitor Center , the Kīlauea Iki Trail , and Nāhuku (otherwise known as Thurston Lava Tube ). Winter brings yet more cruise ships to Hawaiʻi Island as thousands of North Pacific humpback whales migrate annually from Alaska to the warmer waters surrounding the Islands.

Though Kīlauea stopped erupting on Sept 16, 2023, the volcano still attracts visitors despite no visible lava fountains or flows. And it’s likely it will erupt again – the Puʻuʻōʻō eruption, which began in 1983 and lasted 35 years, ranks as the longest and most voluminous known outpouring of lava from Kīlauea’s east rift zone in more than 500 years. “If there is an eruption,” says Jessica Ferracane, the park’s spokesperson, “it is busy all day, every day, especially if it’s at the summit of Kīlauea.”

Planning tip: The park is currently undergoing a big disaster recovery project following the 2018 Kīlauea eruption and summit collapse. There could be temporary area closures, lane closures, reduced parking and other limited services for the next two years. Check the park website to check for construction closures and delays . 

Find out everything you need to know about what's happening in Hawaii throughout the year in  our guide to the best time to visit the Aloha State

How much time should I plan to spend at the park?

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park may not be as huge as Alaska’s 13.2-million-acre Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve – larger than Yellowstone National Park, Yosemite National Park and Switzerland combined – but it does stretch from sea level to the summit of 13,681-ft Mauna Loa and across seven different ecological zones. You’ll need at least a full day to explore all the best parts of the park but two days are even better. 

Park staff recommend that visitors arrive by sunrise to hit the park’s most popular trails first – it's open 24 hours to allow everyone to maximize their time. Dusk is also a wonderful time to go exploring – the lack of light pollution provides dark skies that are perfect for stargazing.

There are a variety of hikes within the national park, from the easy 1.2-mile Kīpukapuaulu Trail to the challenging backcountry treks up Mauna Loa that can take two days. And having an extra day means you can visit the park’s quieter and less crowded Kahuku Unit on the southerly slopes of Mauna Loa. This 116,000-acre former ranchland is about an hour's drive from the Kīlauea Visitor Center and is open to the public five days a week. You can hike to the top of an old cinder cone, trek through a pristine Hawaiian rainforest or bike through scenic pastures with panoramic views of the ranchlands.

The tiny town of Volcano Village just outside the park is also well worth a visit, with its laid-back eateries and food trucks, art galleries, and  a vineyard and winery .

Is it easy to get in and around the park?

The nearest airport is Hilo International, about 30 miles northeast of the park (you can fly into the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keāhole, but the drive from Kailua-Kona will take about two hours). Getting to the park from Hilo is easy – take Route 11 (Hawaiʻi Belt Road) west until you reach the main entrance. The drive takes about 45 minutes.

Hele-On Bus is the island’s only public bus service, operated by Hawaiʻi County. The No. 11 Red Line runs between Hilo and Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, stopping daily at the Kīlauea Visitor Center. The bus schedule is subject to change, so check ahead. There is no public transportation or shuttle service within the park, so you’ll need a car to get around.

Top things to do at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

Kīlauea iki trail.

One of the most popular hikes in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is the 4-mile roundtrip Kīlauea Iki Trail. The terrain is varied – it starts in a forest of native ʻōhiʻa trees and hapuʻu (Hawaiian tree fern) and ends with a walk across an otherworldly crater floor – and it’s short enough to complete in a few hours, giving you plenty of time to visit other parts of the park.

The trailhead is at an overlook of the crater formed from an eruption in 1959 that was marked by fountaining lava over a half-mile long and a plume reaching a world-record 1900ft high. The first part of the trail is a descent through a lush rainforest lined with native ʻōhiʻa and koa trees. Look for the white-rumped ʻapapanae , a nectarivorous Hawaiian honeycreeper, often found flitting from tree to tree. The switchbacks end at the crater floor, a vast moonscape that sharply contrasts with the surrounding native forests.

This lava tube – also known as Thurston Lava Tube – was created by a river of 2000°F (1093°C) molten lava about 500 years ago. Discovered in 1913, this massive lava cave is very accessible, with a flat rock floor and ceiling height of more than 20ft in places. Electric lights illuminate most of the path, though you may want to bring a flashlight – it takes about 20 minutes to stroll through the tube. The rainforest that surrounds Nāhuku is brimming with native birds, including the scarlet ʻiʻiwi , a Hawaiian honeycreeper listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act.

Hōlei Sea Arch

At the end of the Chain of Craters Road – about 18 miles from the Kīlauea Visitor Center – is the Hōlei Sea Arch , a 90-ft-tall rock formation cut into the cliff of an ancient lava flow about 550 years ago. In 2020, the park opened a new viewing area about 1000ft past the gate at the end of the road and set back away from the cliff edge.

Puʻuloa Petroglyphs

There’s an area of Pānau Nui on the southern flank of Kīlauea with numerous pecked images, or petroglyphs, in the hardened lava. Puʻuloa, which translates to “long hill” in ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language), is a sacred place to Native Hawaiians. The archaeological site here boasts more than 23,000 petroglyphs – the largest collection in Hawaiʻi – with motifs of circles, canoe sails, human forms, feathered capes and other geometric shapes.

Devastation Trail

This half-mile hike is suitable for everyone as it's wheelchair and stroller accessible. The paved path meanders through a stark yet beautiful landscape buried by falling cinder from lava fountains of the 1959 Kīlauea Iki eruption. You might find volcanic debris in the form of glass-like droplets and strands called Pele’s Tears and Pele’s Hair, respectively, named after the revered Hawaiian goddess of fire and volcanoes. Nēnē (Hawaiian geese) frequent this area; refrain from feeding or interacting with this threatened species.

My favorite thing to do at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

Unfortunately, there aren’t many places in Hawaiʻi where you find native forest birds anymore. Their populations have plummeted due to habitat destruction, predators like feral cats, mongoose and non-native mosquitoes that spread avian pox and avian malaria.

But at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, where native habitats are protected and able to thrive, you can see – and hear – a variety of these special birds, from the friendly ʻelepaio (Hawaiian flycatcher) to the elusive ʻōmaʻo (Hawaiian thrush), which can only be found in the montane rainforests on Hawaiʻi Island. The bright orange ʻākepa , an endangered Hawaiian honeycreeper with an odd-shaped beak, can be spotted in the high-elevation forests of the park’s Kahuku Unit. And if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the endemic ʻio , the only hawk species native to Hawaiʻi.

I love wandering along the 1.2-mile Kīpukapuaulu Trail, an easy loop through pristine native forestland in an area known as a “bird park.” A kīpuka is an area of land that’s surrounded by younger lava flows, like an “island” within a sea of lava. There are more native tree species per acre here than any other forest in the national park, which means you’ll find native forest birds that rely on the native trees that grow here.

How much money do I need?

Park entry costs $30 for a private car, $25 for a motorcycle, and $15 for pedestrians and cyclists. The park has gone cashless, so payment has to be made with debit or credit cards in person or online .

If you're also planning to visit Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park near Kailua-Kona or Haleakalā National Park on Maui, consider buying the Hawaiʻi Tri-Park Annual Pass for $55. This allows you to enter all three of these parks in a single, private vehicle.

The National Park Service offers free admission to everyone on the following days: Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the first day of National Park Week in April, Juneteenth, the Great American Outdoors Act, National Public Lands Day and Veterans Day.

Average costs at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

• Basic room for two at Volcano House: $80 to $385 per night
• Airbnb in Volcano: $150 average per night
• Cup of coffee: $3.50
• Midrange meal: $15-$20 per person
• Local beer: $10
• Gas (regular) in Hilo: $4.81 per gallon

How to travel in the park consciously

With two active volcanoes and ongoing construction to repair damage caused by the 2018 Kīlauea eruption, it’s important to stay on marked trails and overlooks and keep out of closed areas. And no matter what you may have seen on social media, please leave the rocks alone and unstacked. Park staff often use ahu (stacked rocks) to mark trails; it’s not an invitation to do the same. Not only is it culturally insensitive but it can be disorienting to hikers who rely on the ahu to guide them along trails. It’s also long believed that taking lava rocks brings bad luck. Hundreds of people return rocks they’ve taken from the park every year.

There are many culturally significant sites within the park, itself a Unesco World Heritage Site. These include petroglyphs, historic trails, fossilized footprints, shelter caves, heiau (Hawaiian temples) and stone walls of canoe sheds and corrals. Many of these sites are listed in the National Register of Historic Places – please be respectful when you get the chance to see them close up.

The land within the park is sacred to Native Hawaiians, with moʻolelo (stories) and mele (songs) tied to this area. They believe Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of fire and volcanoes, lives in Halemaʻumaʻu Crater at the summit of Kīlauea. If you come across Native Hawaiians performing cultural rituals in the park, keep a respectful distance. Let them – and others – connect undisturbed with nature.

This article was first published September 2021 and updated April 2024

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What is the Cheapest Hawaiian Island to Visit? (plus 4 ways to save)

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When Jordan and I moved to Maui we were convinced that this was the most expensive of all the Hawaiian islands. When our friends and family come to visit, they’re paying an astronomical amount for hotel rooms. We soon started to wonder, if we think Maui is the most expensive, what is the cheapest Hawaiian island to visit?

Using data from Skyscanner.com, The Hawaii Tourism Authority , and Discount Hawaii Car Rental, the cheapest island to visit is Oahu. Airfare, hotel, and rental car for two people for a week costs $3,319 on Oahu. The most expensive Hawaiian island to visit is Maui, where the same average costs for a week are $5,321. 

How did we get this number? We break down the data below and show you how to save money regardless of what island you visit.  

Note : Prices quoted in this article are from March 2024 using average hotel pricing for July 2023 ( Hawaii Tourism Authority ) since hotel rates can vary wildly depending on the type of accommodations chosen. For updated pricing, see our annual series on the cost of a family of four to visit Hawaii .

We know you came here for the savings, so here are some quick links to keep it cheap: 1. Airfare: read our travel tips for buying plane tickets. 2. Lodging: the best way you can save BIG on a trip is with your lodging. We show you exactly how we’ve been booking resorts *for almost free* for years now . 3. Rental car: see our recommendations for tried and true methods. 4. Plan activities and save on spontaneously booking a tour through your hotel.

What is the Cheapest Hawaiian Island to Visit? Our Research Shows…

To determine which island was actually the cheapest to visit we looked at three different costs: airfare, lodging (hotels and vacation rentals), and rental car. 

Using these averages, we calculated the cost for a trip for two to each island for a week.

Here is what we found. 

Airfare to Hawaii

Ok, so you already know that our research shows that Oahu is the cheapest. Surprisingly though, it didn’t have the cheapest average airfare cost. Using Skyscanner, we looked up the average fare from LAX to each island for July 2024. 

We found that the cheapest airfare was actually to Kona on the Big Island, at $439 for a roundtrip ticket.

Data for the islands include:

• Big Island (Kona): $439 roundtrip
• Maui: $464 roundtrip
• Oahu: $527 roundtrip
• Kauai: $691 roundtrip

July is not the cheapest time to visit Hawaii , but it is a popular time. No matter when you go, find out how to get a cheap ticket to Hawaii

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Lodging in Hawaii:

Staying in Hawaii can be expensive. Yes, there are plenty of options — hotels, rentals, and timeshares — but budget accommodations are few and far between. 

To get the average rate, we used data from the Hawaii Tourism Authority, which tracks average daily rates for hotels, vacation rentals, and timeshares. 

Yes, you could camp on the beach or sleep in your car and save a bundle of money. If that’s your plan, you can omit this from your personal calculation. But for the rest of us, here’s how the average hotel and vacation rental costs break down:

July 2023 average daily rate for hotel rooms:

• Oahu: $ 306
• Big Island: $442
• Kauai: $ 458
• Maui: $ 656

Source: The Hawaii Tourism Authority

July 2023 average daily rate for vacation rentals:

• Big Island: $ 236
• Oahu: $ 247
• Maui: $ 359
• Kauai: $ 386

Basically, when it comes to lodging, the Big Island and Oahu are the cheapest option, which Kauai and Maui really firmly plant themselves in the most expensive category.

Like most people, we love a good luxury hotel, but not the luxury price tag. With all of our travel through Hawaii, we’ve perfected the strategy for getting hotels *for almost free* . We show you exactly you can do the same and how to save thousands on your Hawaii Vacation when it’s Booked With Points.

Related reads: Oahu vs Big Island: Pick The Right Island for Your Trip Hotel vs Airbnb: How to Decide What is Best for Your Hawaii Vacation

Rental Car in Hawaii

Our final input is the rental car. We used Discount Hawaii Car Rental for these estimates . You can check out our other car rental recommendations here .

• Oahu: $61 per day
• Maui: $65 per day
• Big Island, Kona: $65 per day
• Kauai: $66 per day

These rates are shockingly close, in previous years the difference between the most and least expensive island to rent a car on is around $20 per day.

Be mindful when booking your rental car as most people rent an intermediate car when visiting Kona and Maui. It’s likely because visitors want to drive to the volcanoes on each island or on the Road to Hana on Maui. 

If you choose Maui for the Road to Hana, we have some great resources for you: – Is the Road to Hana Worth It? Here’s How to Decide – 5 Routes for the Road to Hana: Choose Your Road to Hana Adventure – Road to Hana Etiquette: 7 Tips for First-Time Visitors – The 6 Best Road to Hana Tours: Find Your Perfect Guide

The Cheapest Hawaiian Island to Visit and the Most Expensive

Of course, we couldn’t resist the opportunity to put all of these costs together and get the real answer for which Hawaiian island is the cheapest and which is the most expensive to visit. 

Using a trip for two from LAX for seven days and six nights, this is the average cost when staying at a hotel:

Oahu is the cheapest Hawaiian island to visit, with a total cost of $ 3,319 .  

Maui is the most expensive island to visit , coming in at $2,000 more expensive, with a total cost of $5,321. 

Doing the same calculation but inputting vacation rental costs , rather than a hotel shows us that the Big Island pulls ahead slightly as the cheapest island to visit, and now Kauai is the most expensive.

Cheapest Hawaiian Island Video

In case you are a visual learner or you want to see some beautiful footage of Oahu and Maui, check out our video on The Cheapest Hawaiian Island to Vacation below. Jordan and I break down the costs and share four tips on how to save money on your Hawaii vacation.

Feel free to add a comment with your thoughts or counterarguments on the cheapest Hawaiian island.

How to Save Money on Your Trip to Hawaii, No Matter What Island You Visit

While the differences in average price can be significant, what will impact the total cost of your trip more is how you plan it. There are money-saving tips that you can implement, regardless of what island you decide to visit. 

Book Your Trip With Points

You don’t need to be a frequent flier or spend an absurd amount to get a few free nights at a luxury hotel in Hawaii. We’ve found the sweet spot of using welcome bonuses to offset the cost of our hotel stays.

Whether you’re looking to book just a few nights at a luxury resort for free or you want to stretch your points for a full 10 day escape we show you the hotels to book and exactly how to earn the points with welcome bonuses over at Booked With Points .

This is my favorite points example: The Grand Hyatt Kauai can be over $1,000 per night! We can get four or five nights for free with these two strategic welcome offers .

Time it Right

If you can be flexible with your vacation schedule, you can save hundreds (or thousands) on your trip to Hawaii. You’ll get the same experience as someone paying double just by traveling during cheaper months.

According to Skyscanner , the cheapest time to fly to Hawaii is January . Data from f are detective shows that the cheapest time to fly to Hawaii is April . Looking for a flight during those two months can mean that you are paying hundreds less for the same flight another person is taking just a few months later.

Saving money on a flight is great. Saving money on your accommodation can really take a significant bite out of your budget. 

We looked through data from the Hawaii Tourism Authority and found that the cheapest months to book a hotel room in Hawaii are April , May , September , October , and November (aside from Thanksgiving week). 

The cheapest months to book a vacation rental are April , May , June , September , October , and November . The most expensive time to book a place to stay are during summer months (specifically July and August ) and the winter months . 

Related article: How to Book the Cheapest Flight to Hawaii

Stay at a Vacation Rental

On all but three islands, the cost of a vacation rental is cheaper than the cost of a hotel. Kauai is the only island where vacation rental costs are actually on par with hotel costs. 

That aside, it’s probably still going to be better on your budget to choose a vacation rental. The average daily rate of a hotel room doesn’t take into account two very expensive fees you may encounter in Hawaii: resort fee and parking fee. 

For example, at the Koloa Landing Resort on Kauai, the resort fee is $35 per day. Hotels in Waikiki charge as much as $55 per day for self-parking. These extra fees can really add up.

You’ll also save money at a vacation rental by eating in. Eating out for every meal in Hawaii can really add up quickly. Renting a place with a kitchen can help you cut back on the costs.

Related articles: The Ultimate Kauai Food Truck Guide (find the best cheap eats) 5 Best Maui Food Truck Parks Hotels vs. Airbnb. How to decide what’s best for your Hawaiian vacation

Plan Out Your Activities

When you get to Hawaii, it’s easy to get sucked into wanting to do everything and wanting to do it right now! But one of the greatest things about visiting Hawaii is there is so much you can do for free or low cost if you get out and explore what the island has to offer. 

Hiking, scenic drives, waterfalls, snorkeling from the beach, and more. 

Related article: The 14 Best Things to Do on Maui on a Budget

But there will undoubtedly be other things that you want to do while you’re here. Plan and research these things before you go and pick based on value. 

For example, we always advise our friends to pick the best luau on Maui , regardless of the price. You’ll feel satisfied by doing a few great activities rather than doing a few mediocre, cheaper options.

And if you’re planning your activities out a little ahead of time, you can look for the best deals. For example, we go whale watching a number of times during the season. These trips can add up but by looking ahead and booking the early bird morning cruise, we can save 25% or more on each trip we do. 

Related article: The Guide to Seeing Humpback Whales on Maui

Living here (and having made 50+ trips to the islands before moving) we have tested some of the best activities on the island. Don’t go it alone when it comes to picking the best activities. We’ve included the best of the best for you on our activity recommendation page . 

More activities by Island: 31 of the BEST Things To Do On Maui 40 Things to Do on Oahu, Hawaii (we will surprise you!) 35 Best Things to Do on Kauai 21 Incredible Things to Do on the Big Island

To Rent a Car or Not?

While a rental car is the smallest of the three costs we looked at, you may wonder if a rental car is right for your trip. From what we’ve heard, more visitors are ditching the rental and preferring to take a ride-sharing service when they want to get around. And we certainly saw plenty of people arriving at the Diamond Head hike via a taxi. 

The decision whether to rent a car or not comes down to what you want to do on your vacation. Do you expect to hang around the resort and maybe take a trip or two out? A rental car might not be the best choice for you. Or are you planning to do plenty of sightseeing and grocery shopping? The cost of a rental car might be well worth it. 

Taking the time to decide whether to book a rental car could save you hundreds. 

If you do decide to rent a car, check out our recommended rental car booking tool . Booking with them saved us $300 over our New Year’s trip to the Big Island and $70 on our most recent trip to Oahu. Yes, their prices are that good. 

Related articles: Should I Rent a Car on Maui? How to Get Around Without a Rental Car on Oahu (and when you need one) The Best 7 Day Oahu, Hawaii Itinerary Without a Rental Car

Ready to Plan Your Trip to Hawaii?

We’re here to make your planning easy. Whether it’s picking an island, a hotel, or an activity, you’ll find the best information on our Hawaii recommendations page . 

We’re your local guide here to help you make your trip to the islands the best it can possibly be. 

Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary

Maui Wayfinder Itinerary

Kauai Wayfinder Itinerary

Cruising Hawaii Guide

Big Island Wayfinder Itinerary

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

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6 of the Best Islands To Visit in Hawaii

H awaii is home to some of the most sought-after tropical waters in the world. The islands of Hawaii have lush rainforests, world-class beaches, and stunning volcanoes that attract millions of visitors every year . Marked by clear turquoise waters and vibrant green mountains, these islands provide picturesque views that are unparalleled.   

Along with the many environmental attractions and attributes of Hawaii, its culture is one of the most incredible features that travelers can experience. The Aloha Spirit, which many travelers get to experience as soon as they land, is a significant aspect of Hawaiian culture derived from Polynesian heritage. The term comes from the greeting “aloha,” which means the coordination of both the mind and heart (or compassion and harmony with mankind). This spirit exists across each of the islands of Hawaii. 

Hawaii’s many different islands offer unique features and gorgeous views. Travelers can have many different types of vacations, depending on their preferred island. While there are a total of eight main Hawaiian islands, only some of them are accessible to visitors. Check out these six Hawaiian islands that are the best to visit; whether a bustling tropical paradise or secluded getaway sounds ideal. 

Popular Tourist Islands 

These islands are tourist hot spots and provide convenient central locations. These locations come with top-notch hotels, delicious food spots, and metropolitan cities close to the water. The islands are a must-see for travelers aiming to get acquainted with the city and locals.  

The Big Island

The Big Island is full of hiking trails and beautiful parks and is known for its size. In fact, it has plenty of space for visitors with varying interests since it is the largest island in the United States (with over four thousand square miles of land). Beaches are one of the most beautiful spots to visit on the Big Island and a place for visitors to lounge, sunbathe, and have fun. A highly favored white sand beach is Mauna Kea, which is a half-mile long and extremely family-friendly. Mauna Kea is also the name of the nearby dormant volcano that is the world’s tallest mountain from (base to the summit), not to be confused with Mt. Everest (which is the tallest above sea level).

There are volcano sightseeing tours, stingray snorkel tours, and ship excursions on the Big Island. These activities, along with hiking, are the most popular. The Pololū Valley Trail is considered one of the most beautiful big island hikes since its overlook provides panoramic views of the nearby black sand beach. 

The best time to visit Hawaii’s big island is between September and November. This is technically due to the price changes for rooms, which change because of lower volumes of visitors. Since Hawaii has generally consistent weather, there is not too much to be worried about in terms of sunshine. Hawaii’s temperatures usually range from the 70s to the 80s. Surfers may want to visit between December and March, although this time period is when prices surge.

The island is beloved for its glorious coasts and unique experiences . Haleakala National Park has Maui’s highest peak, Haleakala, which is the largest dormant volcano in the world. Many visitors opt to book sunrise and sunset tours at the Haleakala National Park, which must be booked well ahead of time since they are so popular. There is even an adults only luxury resort in Maui. This island may be an ideal option for travelers who want to prioritize romance or quiet environments. 

Blue Hawaiian helicopter tours are another popular excursion that travelers can book to explore the island. With a helicopter tour of the island, travelers can get an aerial view of all the mountainsides and the scenic views of Maui. 

Travelers should visit Maui during the shoulder season, that is, during spring or fall. In spring (between April and May) and fall (from September and November), visitors can experience moderate weather while also avoiding the higher prices and crowds that visit during summer and winter. 

Oahu is well known since it is the site of Pearl Harbor and has one of the best shores for surfing. The tourism industry is thriving in Oahu, reflected in the quality of amenities and experiences it offers.  

Some of the most exciting things to do in Oahu include nature and historical landmarks. In fact, some of the most popular sights of Oahu are unique nature sites like China Walls or Electric Beach , which seem to exist miraculously. Of course, there are also historical sites that can be traced back to distinct events. There are Pearl Harbor tours that visit the museum, memorial and visitor’s center to provide more in-depth information regarding the events of Pearl Harbor. Many of these tours depart from Waikiki, which is a popular district of the city of Honolulu , Oahu.

Between April and June and September and December, attractions are less crowded, temperatures are moderate, and prices for travel decrease. The shoulder season is the best time to visit since the summer and surfing season crowds have not hit yet. 

Secluded Islands 

These islands of Hawaii are great options for those who want to reconnect with nature and have a sense of solitude. With more sprawling land than people, these locations will surely be the fix that tropical travelers need. 

Molokai 

Molokai is one of the four islands within Maui County and is one of the least visited of the major Hawaiian islands. The island is only 38 miles long and has a proudly undeveloped coastline. Molokai provides an off-the-beaten path and small-town feel, so large-scale tourism will not be found here. People planning to visit Molokai must be cognizant of the island’s people and resources since environmental and cultural preservation are local concerns. 

Molokai is a great place to have a relaxed and slow-going trip. Since the island is not commercially developed, there is a lot of wilderness. Enjoying the surrounding nature and the Aloha Spirit is the best way to spend time on Molokai. The most popular attractions are the Kalaupapa National Historical Park and Pāpōhaku Beach Park. The remote northern national park is a place of education and preservation and is actually only accessible by a mule ride, hiking tour or a small airplane. Pāpōhaku Beach Park (or three mile beach) has campsites, showers, and picnic facilities. Visitors will find that there is an abundance of space at the site since it is one of the longest white-sand beaches in Hawaii. 

The best time to visit Molokai is during the dry season when there are moderate temperatures and less rain. Between April and June, visitors can expect temperatures between the high 70s and 80s. Generally, since Molokai has no crowds, travelers will not have trouble visiting the island throughout the year. 

Kauai is the northernmost island in the Hawaiian chain and is known as the garden island since it is covered by tropical rainforest. The island also has breathtaking cliffs on the sea and beautiful flora and fauna. This destination has plenty of natural beauty and is a tropical paradise welcoming smaller towns like Waimea.

Travelers who love adrenaline-surging activities will appreciate the expanded possibilities that a less populated island provides. Travelers of Kauai enjoy things like exciting zipline journeys through the jungle, ATV backroads tours or kayaking trips on the Wailua River.

Visiting Kauai is better during non-peak seasons even though there is not a high volume of visitors compared to trendy tourist islands. Between September and December or April to June, there are lower prices on excursions and local accommodations . 

Lanai offers a luxury and remote experience that many romantics enjoy. Lanai has a historic town named Lanai City with small restaurants and shops for travelers to explore. The city is technically more like a small village since the community is so small. This island is a popular day trip destination, allowing tourists to experience authentic island living. 

Although the island is mainly uninhabited, there is plenty for visitors to see. There are unique sites to see on Lanai, including a well-known shipwreck at Shipwreck Beach (or Kaiolohia) that travelers go to see often. The 1940s shipwreck is a testament to how Hawaii’s windy and rocky beaches can be dangerous. Even though the beach has incredible views, visitors are not advised to swim there. 

The best time to visit Lanai is between June and November since those months are the warmest and driest months. Lanai is a secluded island, so travelers do not have to be concerned with crowds and can spend their time relaxing.

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I’ve Lived in Hawaii Nearly All My Life — and These Are the Most Underrated Destinations in the Aloha State

From one of the only green-sand beaches in the world to the southernmost point in the U.S., these are the top places to visit in Hawaii, according to a local.

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Hawaii has beckoned tourists away from their daily routines to experience paradise for years. Nearly 10 million people made the trek to the archipelago last year, a destination with a population of around 1.5 million. The Hawaiian islands offer accessible natural beauty throughout the year — from the mountains (known as mauka ) to the sea (called makai ). Think sun-drenched beaches with warm water, waterfalls hidden in rain forests, and sand in hues of white, black, and red. Perhaps what makes Hawaii so special to visitors is the spirit of aloha — a warm hospitality not found anywhere else — and a rich cultural heritage dating back centuries. 

Hawaii is one of the most coveted destinations in the world, but travelers often merely scratch the surface of what the state has to offer. As someone who grew up in Honolulu — a popular tourist stop — and resides there currently, I see it all the time, but I don’t blame them. Tourism has been significant in Hawaii for so long, it seems like everything has been touched by visitors. It can be hard to distinguish what’s worth the crowds and early mornings (to beat traffic) and what’s truly Hawaiian or local. 

Hawaii is more than meets the eye, and there’s a transformative experience awaiting visitors who want to go beyond the beaten path. If you’re looking to experience the spiritual power of the Aloha State's natural beauty and history, or see where the locals like to go , here are 10 underrated places to visit in Hawaii.

Waialae Avenue, Kaimuki

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Located a short drive from Waikiki, Waialae Avenue is the artery of Honolulu’s quaint Kaimuki neighborhood. The stores, restaurants, and coffee shops lining the street pulsate with energy. If you’re looking to purchase locally crafted goods, Waialae Avenue has you covered. In fact, there’s an entire movement dedicated to supporting the small businesses of the area, known as Keep It Kaimuki . I’ll typically start my day with a shaken iced latte concocted with locally sourced coconut syrup from Bean About Town before hitting some of my favorite stores like Da Shop , which carries books from Hawaii-connected authors, and browsing the creations of local fashion designers at Ten Tomorrow .

Stargazing Along East Oahu

Hawaii Tourism Authority/Dana Edmunds

If the skies are clear, you should make time for a nighttime adventure. My suggestion is to drive east out of Honolulu and into Hawaii Kai. Take the windy Kalanianaole Highway (carefully) to the Halona Blowhole parking lot, or all the way past Sandy Beach Park and stop along the beach. Away from the city lights, the stars and moon glow brightly across the vast sky. Aside from the beautiful view, stars hold cultural significance to Hawaiians — for centuries, they’ve been used for storytelling, ceremonies, and wayfinding by voyagers.

Yokohama Bay

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People come to Hawaii for the beach , and while Waikiki may technically have one, it often feels too crowded to relax. For a true beach day, pack up some snacks and gear and head all the way west to Yokohama Bay. (Or, stop by Aloha Poke and grab a bowl of fresh rice and cubed ahi tuna to enjoy on the beach.) It’s the furthest west you can go on Oahu, and about a 1.-5-hour drive from Honolulu. Upon arriving, you'll be met with a wide stretch of golden sand that's surrounded by mountains. As long as there’s no northwest swell wrapping around the island, the turquoise waters are inviting. And since you’re facing the west, be sure to stay for the stunning sunset.

Lyon Arboretum

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The flora of Hawaii is part of the state's allure: vibrant flowers like the plumeria and hibiscus; big, green, Jurassic Park-like foliage; and tropical fruits like mangoes and papayas that flourish naturally. The islands' distinctive geography and diverse climates give rise to a rich array of plant life, including unique endemic species that are exclusive to Hawaii, like the spiky, silver ʻāhinahina. You can spend some time learning about Hawaii's flora by visiting Lyon Arboretum in Honolulu’s Manoa neighborhood. Comprising 194 acres and more than 6,000 taxa of tropical and subtropical plants, Lyon Arboretum is a research center at the University of Hawaii at Manoa and an outdoor museum of living plants with a mission to conserve Hawaii’s rare and native plants. Guests can meander the hiking trails or check out the botanical gardens on their own or with a guided tour.

Nakalele Blowhole

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The majestic power of Mother Nature can be seen throughout the islands, but Maui’s Nakalele Blowhole is one of the best places to witness that force up close. Getting to the blowhole, located on the northern part of the island, requires a windy and scenic drive along Honoapiʻilani Highway. The parking area offers a good vantage point for seeing the blowhole and its surrounding dramatic lava rock coastline — and humpback whales in the wintertime. The more adventurous can take a 20-minute hike down steep and rocky terrain to some tide pools, making sure to heed any warning signs along the way. Before embarking, make sure to check the tide is high; otherwise, there isn't enough water for the blowhole to erupt. If you’re lucky, there will be a local stand selling banana bread.

Petroglyphs at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Hawaii Tourism Authority/Tor Johnson

Perhaps one of the top attractions throughout the islands, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a dynamic, ever-changing landscape thanks to its active volcanoes. While the volcanoes may steal the show, there are other parts of the park that are worth visiting, too. One of those lesser-known spots is the Pu‘uloa Petroglyphs , with pu‘uloa meaning “long hill.” Considered a sacred place, this archaeological site has more than 23,000 petroglyph images, including geometric shapes, canoe sails, and other motifs representing the life of ancient Native Hawaiians. Visitors can take a short hike through a 500-year-old lava field and view the fragile petroglyphs from a boardwalk.

Wailua River State Park

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Nestled into the lush rain forests of the aptly named Garden Isle, the Iraivan Temple is remarkable for a few reasons: The South Asian temple design features ornate white granite intricately carved without power tools in Bangalore and India and assembled together on Kauai. Having the Hindu temple in Hawaii is also unique, as it gives visitors and locals a rare chance to experience Hindu philosophies. The backdrop of the Wailua River Valley, where an adjacent waterfall flows and there are many shades of green, adds to the tranquility. Visitors to the temple must book a reservation for personal meditation and worship. Once you've tapped into your serenity, spend some time in Wailua River State Park , less crowded than Waimea Canyon. The free state park is full of hiking trails to waterfalls and stunning views. For an immersive experience, take a two-mile river cruise filled with Hawaiian songs and stories by the family-owned Smith’s Kauai .

Hamakua Coast

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While the Kohala Coast gets lots of attention for its sunshine, pristine beaches, and array of resorts, the Hamakua Coast is Hawaii Island’s more rugged, verdant counterpart, with vibrant valleys and majestic waterfalls in a magical, rainy setting. Start your drive from Hilo via the Hamakua Heritage Corridor. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to stop at botanical gardens, waterfalls, and scenic outlooks. You’ll likely hit some crowds at the more popular spots like Rainbow Falls and Waipio Valley Lookout, but if it’s your first time to the island, these locations are still worth a visit. I recommend stopping for lunch and a tour at Hawaiian Vanilla Co. , a small, family-owned farm that offers vanilla-themed dishes and a tasting tour. The drive ends in the agricultural town of Waimea, and if you don't stop for lunch at the vanilla farm, grab a burger at Village Burger Waimea, where the beef is as fresh and local as possible.

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Hawaii Island offers travelers the chance to visit Ka Lae , the southernmost point in the U.S. Holding much cultural significance, Ka Lae (or “the point” in Hawaiian) is believed to be where the first Polynesian voyagers landed in Hawaii and one of the earliest settlements on the islands. Evidence of the ancient Hawaiians remains there to this day, including an ancient fishing shrine, marked by stone walls and a platform where fish was once prepared. To get there, drive to the end of South Point Road in Naʻalehu on Hawaii Island until you reach the 69 and 90 mile markers. You’ll be perched atop high cliffs where the ocean crashes below. Once you finish reveling in this sacred space, head over to Papakolea Beach, one of just four green-sand beaches in the world.

Hanalei Pier

Hanalei Pier is a must-visit spot on Kauai . Walk out onto the pier, where local kids like to jump off, and soak in the sweeping vistas of the bay, veiled in rain clouds and teeming with vibrant greenery. Hanalei is my favorite surf spot, where the cold river water meets the warm, salty sea. If you’re not experienced, you can always sit and watch people ride the waves, called heʻe nalu in Hawaiian. While in Hanalei, combine your visit with some responsible tourism and leave Hawaii better than when you arrived.

You can volunteer at the Waipā Foundation , a living learning center that perpetuates Hawaiian values and stewards more than 1,600 acres of land. Every fourth Saturday of the month, the public is welcomed to help take care of the land — whether reforesting native plants or restoring a fishpond — in an action called malama 'aina .

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Exploring Hidden Gems of Hawaii’s Big Island

Last Updated on April 27, 2024

The Big Island of Hawaii is a treasure trove of natural wonders and cultural landmarks. Everyone who comes to Hawaii should visit the iconic sites such as Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the waterfalls of Hilo, Kahaluu Beach and the Hawai’i Tropical Botanical Gardens for starters.

While these are all fabulous places to explore, those returning to the island for a follow-on visit or travelers looking for off-the-beaten-path locations are in for a real treat.

Thanks to the locals I can always count on for sage advice, here are my family’s favorite hidden gems of Hawaii’s Big Island.

Puako Petroglyph Archeological Preserve

Located along the Kohala Coast, Puako is home to one of the largest concentrations of petroglyphs in Hawaii believed to be left sometime between 600-100 AD.

The Preserve features thousands of ancient carvings etched into lava rock by Native Hawaiians. Visitors can take a self-guided tour at no cost to view the petroglyphs and learn about their cultural significance. Hawaiians at the time had no written language and the drawings were a way to tell their tales and pass on history to future generations.

The 1.4-mile roundtrip Malama Trail is unpaved, but marked with stones and logs. Word of advice – wear hiking shoes as the path is thorny and ungraded. The best time to visit is early in the morning or later in the evening when the sun is low in the sky.

Hike to Papakōlea Beach (Green Sand Beach)

This unique beach is located near the southern tip of the island and is one of only four green sand beaches in the world. The hike to get there is about 2.5 miles (4 km) each way and offers stunning coastal views with rugged cliffs and turquoise waters. The terrain can be challenging for a beginning hiker.

The beach gets its distinctive green color from the presence of olivine, a semiprecious mineral found in the volcanic rocks of the nearby Pu’u Mahana cinder cone. The olivine crystals are denser than the other volcanic materials, causing them to accumulate on the beach and give it its unique hue.

Caution is advised when swimming due to strong currents and potentially hazardous surf conditions. The best time to head to Papakōlea is in the early morning. Make sure to bring plenty of water and remember that this is considered a Hawaiian sacred site.

Visit the Ancient Fishponds at Kalahuipua’a Historic Park

When the Hawaiians first created the fishponds throughout the island, they became a source of food for royalty. Today, they are a delightful oasis along the Big Island’s arid Kohala Coast enjoyed by everyone. None is more spectacular than Na Loko I’a O Kalahuipua’a. Its massive brackish ponds are fed and cleansed by freshwater streams feeding into them and tidal action.

Prehistoric Hawaiians were able to raise a variety of fish in these ponds, and even today, the ponds are still being managed and stocked with mullet, milkfish, jack, barracuda and shrimp.

The one-mile roundtrip hike on paved trails to the fish ponds was amazing as we passed through a dry landscape with petroglyphs, lava tube dwellings, and ancient caves before entering the lush, four-acre fishpond section leading to the ocean.

Footbridges connect the fishponds to a small bay with pools teeming with fish in a rainbow of colors and even large Moray eels. 

Explore Punalu’u Black Sand Beach

While many visitors flock to the more popular beaches on the island, Punalu’u offers a quieter experience with its striking black sand and sightings of honu (green sea turtles).

This is one of the most iconic and picturesque beaches on the Big Island, its black sand created by lava flowing into the ocean, cooling, and then shattering into tiny basalt fragments that wash ashore. In addition to watching the turtles come ashore, I love the contrast between the obsidian-colored sand, azure waters, and lush green vegetation combining into one striking landscape.

It’s important to remember that visitors need to keep a respectful distance from the sea turtles and refrain from touching or disturbing them as it is strictly forbidden.

Walk from Kilauea Iki to Thurston Lava Tube

Seeing the active and massive Kilauea Volcano in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is mind-boggling. Another must-do is a visit to Thurston Lava Tube within the park.

This formed over 500 years ago during a volcanic eruption when lava flowed through a lushly forested area. As the outer layers of the lava cooled and solidified, the inner molten lava continued to flow, eventually leaving behind a hollow tube once the eruption subsided.

While Thurston (known by the Hawaiians as Nahuku) is not the largest lava tube on the Big Island, it is one of the most accessible and well-preserved.

Visitors can pull up to a parking area and take a short and easy loop to the lava tube. On our most recent trip to the Big Island however, we parked at the Crater Rim Drive parking lot and thoroughly enjoyed a walk on a verdant path to Nahuku. Vista points along the right side of the path provided stunning views of the Kilauea Iki volcanic crater and visitors appeared ant-sized in the distance.

This massive crater, also located within the National Park, resembles the bleak surface of the moon. It is vast, dry and desolate with an other-worldly appearance. The Pu’u Pua’i cinder cone inside, which formed during the 1959 eruption, includes steam vents and fumaroles that still emit gases from the cone, serving as a reminder of the volcanic activity that shaped the landscape.

Visit Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park

Pu’uhonua o Honaunau served as a place of refuge for ancient Hawaiians who had violated kapu, or sacred laws punishable by death. Fleeing individuals could find sanctuary within the boundaries of the park, where they could be absolved of their transgressions by priests in a special ceremony and eventually allowed to return to society.

The park contains a wealth of archaeological sites and structures that provide insights into ancient Hawaiian life and culture. These include temple platforms (heiau), fishponds, houses and reconstructed thatched buildings.

One of the most notable features is the Great Wall which encloses the refuge area constructed from lava rock, serving as a physical and symbolic barrier separating the sanctuary from the outside world.

Within the park, visitors can explore the royal grounds (Ali’i) where Hawaiian chiefs and nobles once resided. These sacred areas include the Hale o Keawe heiau, which housed the bones of deceased chiefs, and the royal fishponds (loko i’a), which provided a sustainable food source for the community.

Pu’uhonua o Honaunau offers cultural demonstrations and interpretive programs that provide visitors with insights into traditional Hawaiian practices, such as hula, weaving, and canoe building. The property is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including coconut palm groves, lava rock formations, and magnificent coastal views overlooking the Pacific Ocean. 

Stargaze at Mauna Kea

Mauna Kea, the tallest mountain in Hawaii at over 13,000 feet above sea level, is the world’s best astronomical observation site offering visitors an unparalleled experience.

Mauna Kea’s summit is home to some of the world’s most advanced astronomical observatories, including the W. M. Keck Observatory, Subaru Telescope, and Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope. These state-of-the-art facilities allow astronomers to conduct groundbreaking research and capture stunning images of distant celestial objects.

While access to the observatories themselves is restricted, several organizations offer public stargazing programs at Mauna Kea’s summit. These guided tours typically include transportation to the summit, the use of telescopes and binoculars, and expert commentary from knowledgeable guides. Some even include sunset viewing before darkness falls on Mauna Kea.

Of note: due to its high altitude, temperatures on Mauna Kea are often significantly colder than at sea level, especially after sunset. Visitors should dress in layers and bring hats, gloves, and blankets to stay comfortable during stargazing.

The vast dark cosmos filled with layer upon layer of stars is beyond breathtaking.

Learn the History of Kona Coffee

The prized and deliciously superior Kona coffee is grown on specific portions of the western coast of the island. The combination of favorable growing conditions, altitude, and careful cultivation practices results in coffee beans of exceptional aroma, acidity, and balance. Considered one of the finest and most sought-after coffees in the world, Kona coffees command premium prices, and rightly so.

To truly appreciate the reason for the coffee’s exceptional quality and distinctive flavor, travelers should tour at least one of the island’s coffee farms.

Greenwell Farms is a renowned coffee farm and the oldest, located in the heart of the Kona Coffee Belt. Its rich cultural heritage dates back to the 1850s when Henry Greenwell, a British merchant, established a homestead in the fertile Kona district.

Recognizing the area’s ideal growing conditions, Greenwell began cultivating coffee on his land, laying the foundation for what would become one of Hawaii’s most respected coffee estates.

We not only love the farm’s open-air tasting room where visitors can sample all varieties of Greenwell’s fine coffees, but the farm offers complimentary guided tours that provide an immersive experience of history, coffee cultivation and processing.

Connoisseur or casual coffee enthusiast, a visit to Greenwell Farms is sure to delight the senses and deepen your appreciation for this beloved Hawaiian treasure.

Whether you’re visiting the Big Island of Hawaii for the first time or on a return visit, if you put one or all of these hidden gems on your to-do list, you won’t regret exploring outside the most popular things to do and see.

Michael Kompanik is a retired Navy Captain, a managing editor of Rovology Online Magazine and a freelance travel writer. He currently resides in San Diego California with his wife Noreen who is also a travel writer and editor. Together they have traveled to such far off places as Europe, Thailand, Central America, Africa and more. Michael’s wide-ranging interests include history, nature, travel, photography, and, of course, military matters.

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Your Complete Guide to a Dreamy Hawaii Honeymoon

Dramatic peaks, lush rainforests, gorgeous beaches—there's a reason why a Hawaii honeymoon has become something of a standard for couples. While still part of the US, this string of islands feels worlds away—and still takes about the same time as it would to reach Europe if you're flying from the East Coast. But from California, this is a much easier—and just as exotic—locale as the Caribbean, and you'll find plenty of things to do in each of the islands. From Oahu, the "Heart of Hawaii," to the "Garden Isle" of Kauai, the six major islands pack in plenty for newlyweds, whether you're looking for a sleepy surf town, buzzy beach or nature like active volcanoes and coffee farms. From the first "Aloha," you'll instantly fall into the rhythm of Hawaiian time on your romantic island honeymoon.

Hawaii Honeymoon Tips in this Article:

Best Time to Honeymoon in Hawaii

Hawaii honeymoon planning tips, where to honeymoon in hawaii, hawaii honeymoon resorts and hotels, things to do in hawaii for couples, what to pack for a hawaii honeymoon.

Hawaii only has two seasons: summer, which spans May to October (and is considered the best time to visit ), and winter from November to April, which are also the wettest months. Peak whale-watching season falls between January and March, when humpbacks can be spotted along the coast. This is also when you'll catch bigger waves, if you plan to surf or watch competitions.

Best weather: May to October

Festival highlights: Honolulu Festival in March; Aloha Festivals in September; Hawai'i Food and Wine Festival and Hawai'i International Film Festival in October; Annual Kona Coffee Cultural Festival and Hawaiʻi Food & Wine Festival in November; Vans Triple Crown of Surfing in November and December; Honolulu Marathon in December

The Hawaiian Islands are a quintessential honeymoon spot and hotels and resorts know how to pamper couples. If you're staying on the Island of Hawaii, you'll find plenty of resorts and vacation rentals on the Kohala Coast and Kona area, as well as Hilo and Puna on the eastern side of the island, near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. In addition to sprawling resorts with big-name brands, couples can also stay in a cozy cottage, B&B, condo or Airbnb in the form of a beach house, volcano dome home or luxe treehouse.

On most islands, you can get around by shuttle, public transportation, taxi or ride-sharing app like Uber or Lyft. If you plan to explore by car, be sure to reserve a rental far in advance as they tend to go fast. Another popular way to venture around the islands? On a cruise passing through ports in downtown Honolulu, Maui and the Garden Island of Kauai.

Pro tip: Invite a honeymoon planning expert to join your vendor team. Browse travel agents near you on The Knot Vendor Marketplace for Hawaii honeymoon advice.

When creating your Hawaii honeymoon itinerary, take a look at the six major islands to see which of these Polynesian charmers is right for you. Or, better yet, turn your romantic vacation into a two-part trip adventuring—or embracing total relaxation—in the Hawaiian Islands.

Nicknamed "The Valley Isle," Maui is the postcard-perfect version of Hawaii, lined with 33 miles of beaches and lush rainforests, as well as Mount Haleakala, which towers 10,000 feet above sea level and shows off stunning sunrise views.

The Hollywood favorite's wild landscape has made appearances in everything from Raiders of the Lost Ark to Jurassic Park and Elvis' Blue Hawaii . "The Garden Island" continues captivating visitors with its lush green valleys, jagged cliffs and tropical rainforests—making it a great spot for adventure-seekers who want to hike, kayak or zip-line.

Home to capital city Honolulu and laid-back surf towns like Haleiwa, honeymooners will find tons of resorts to swoon over in the legendary neighborhood of Waikiki, where you can stay directly on the world-famous beach near shopping, dining and entertainment attractions.

The Big Island of Hawaii

The youngest and largest in the chain, you can pass through four different climate zones while venturing around the Big Island. While there are fewer (and smaller) beaches, you'll find plenty of other sites to marvel at, from the ink-black Punalu'u Beach to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Whether you choose your hotel based on the island or vice versa, Hawaii offers honeymooners plenty of options for relaxing and romantic hotels. Take your pick of charming cottages, unique Airbnbs, vacation rentals and more traditional resorts where the view keeps getting better everywhere you turn.

Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

The open-air resort is one of the most luxurious in Maui—and also boasts the most spacious accommodations on the island. Modern suites sit perched over the Pacific and Wailea Beach, and you'll even spot neighboring islands while lounging on your lanai. Take a dip in one of the Four Seasons ' three saltwater pools, which includes an adults-only option lined with twin Missoni-designed cabanas.

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The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua

This oceanfront beauty with direct access to sandy D.T. Fleming Beach is a paradise for couples who want easy access to Maui's best snorkeling and surfing (six bays sit within a 10-minute drive), but there's also plenty at the resort if you don't want to stray too far from your suite. Lounge under an umbrella at the 24-hour heated pool, play tennis on a court overlooking the ocean or set off on a trek around Kapalua's miles of coastal and mountain trails.

Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort

If you're planning to cash in points for a dream honeymoon stay, now is the time. Ranked one of the top resorts in the Hawaiian Islands, Grand Wailea is a destination in itself. Unfolding along Wailea Beach and surrounded by 40 acres of lush landscape, this sprawling resort checks off tons of boxes, from award-winning cuisine to championship golf and tennis, a Mexican mosaic-lined cabana-fringed pool and a lagoon with nine individual pools, plus waterfalls, caves, three Jacuzzis and a swim-up bar.

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Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection

Touches of the islands are found throughout Mauna Lani in the form of sleek hardwood floors, natural fabrics and gorgeous textiles you'll want to source your own version of and bring home as a souvenir. In addition to a furnished lanai, you'll find sumptuous touches like soaking tubs overlooking the ocean and spacious, minimalist-chic bathrooms with walk-in showers roomy enough for two. Canoe out to spectacular snorkel spots or embrace Hawaii's natural side another way, indulging in a spa treatment that champions homegrown plants and botanicals.

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1 Hotel Hanalei Bay

The oceanfront enclave on Kauai's North Shore blends the best of wellness-focused 1 Hotels with Hawaii's natural beauty. Gardens and living walls are planted with mostly endemic or Polynesian canoe crops brought over nearly 1,000 years ago; dining at signature spot 1 Kitchen is plant-forward and hyper-local, showing off seasonal fare sourced from the island's own farmers, fishers and growers; and mountain- or ocean-view rooms frame views through wall-length windows and daybed-clad terraces.

Pro tip: For even more luxury stays in Hawaii, check out all-inclusive resorts perfect for a romantic island honeymoon .

Indulge in an Authentic Feast and Luau

You can't visit Hawaii without experiencing a luau, and this entertaining version on the site of the Battle of Kipapa in Honolulu combines Hawaiian war history, traditional dance and fire-knife performances. Get ready for the art of hula and an all-you-can-eat Hawaiian feast.

Cruise Oahu's Coast

A sunset cruise is always a romantic moment when visiting an island, but this three-course crab and steak dinner cruise comes with extra entertainment in the form of the largest cast in Hawaii's waters. Toast with Mai Tai cocktails while watching a live performance dubbed "60 Years of Aloha."

Snorkel with Manta Rays on the Big Island

Hop on a cruise along the Big Island where a local guide will get you equipped to plunge down for a snorkel session with manta rays. This is one experience you'll want to bring (or rent!) a GoPro to catch the moment on video to share with everyone back home.

Helicopter Over the Garden Isle

The next best thing to skydiving, jump into an open-door helicopter and soar for nearly an hour over Kauai's wild cliffs, canyons and rainforests. On the trip, you'll spot waterfalls from Jurassic Park and the Na Pali Coast with a trained firefighting pilot at the helm.

Go Chasing Waterfalls and Volcanoes on the Big Island

On this small-ground sightseeing tour , you'll get a mix of history, culture and nature while touring a Kona coffee farm, dipping your toes at Punalu'u Black Sand Beach (keep an eye out for green sea turtles!), and peering into the 500-year-old Thurston Lava Tube.

Pro tip: Add Hawaii honeymoon experiences to your gift registry so that loved ones can give you one of these memorable couples activities.

When going through your packing checklist for a Hawaii Honeymoon, don't forget comfortable footwear for walking, sandals for the beach, a few nicer pieces for dinners (think breezy dresses, linen pants and espadrilles), and layers for daytime. Tropical chic is the vibe here, so mix colors, patterns, knits and statement accessories (go for fun over formal). You'll also want to pack essentials like a hat, sunglasses, waterproof camera or case for your phone and reef-safe sunscreen.