best trip to hawaii ever

19 of the best places to visit in Hawaii

Mar 5, 2024 • 12 min read

Narrow down your Hawaii hit list with these top places to visit © Fly View Productions / Getty Images

No matter what you're looking for in a vacation – adventure, relaxation, romance, cultural experiences, food – Hawaii has it all.

Every island has its own kind of vibe, from the laid-back serenity of Kauaʻi to the bustling beach towns of Maui. There are so many unique experiences , too, like hiking to an active volcano on Hawaiʻi Island and watching monster surf crash on Oʻahu's North Shore.

With so many options, here's a shortcut to the best experiences you can have in the Aloha State.

1. Waikiki, Oʻahu

Waikiki on Oʻahu's sunny south shore is the state's most famous resort town. Over the years, the neighborhood has evolved to be less kitschy and more authentic. Hotels offer lei-making classes in their open-air lobbies, and traditional hula is showcased on the tiki torch-lit hula mound on Kuhio Beach . Take surfing lessons from modern-day beach boys or indulge in afternoon tea at the historic Moana Surfrider . Some of the island's best restaurants are located in Waikiki, too.

Planning tip : The Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort has been putting on a fireworks show every Friday night since 1988 (bar the pandemic years). Bring a picnic dinner and find a spot on the beach to watch the skies light up. The show starts at 7:45pm during the winter and 8pm in the summer.

2. Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, Hawaiʻi Island

The 323,431-acre Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park on Hawaiʻi Island is a place unlike anywhere else in Hawaii (or the US). This is one of the few places in the world where you can drive up to safely view an active volcano. Kilauea , an active shield volcano, had been, up until 2018, continuously erupting and altering the landscape since 1983. It's currently not active , but that can change any day. The national park – one of five on the Big Island – stretches from sea level to the summit of the 13,679ft Mauna Loa , one of the largest volcanoes in the world. Trek along one of dozens of hiking routes in the park and see old lava flows and tubes, steam vents, and native trees and birds.

Detour : Stop at Volcano Village, a rustic town in the middle of a lush rainforest filled with native hapuʻu fern and 'ōhiʻa trees just outside the park. You can find quaint vacation rentals here, a handful of restaurants, a farmers market on Sundays, a small winery that sells locally produced wine, an orchid farm and the Volcano Art Center , a working arts studio and gallery.

3. The Island of Molokaʻi

Undeveloped and often overlooked, Molokaʻi offers some of the most unique experiences of any of the Hawaiian Islands. Spanning 38 miles long and 10 miles across at its widest point, this island – the fifth largest in Hawaii – is home to the world's tallest sea cliffs, the longest waterfall in the Islands and one of the state's largest white-sand beaches, Papohaku Beach . 

There are no big resorts or traffic lights here; instead, you'll find the windswept Moʻomomi Dunes, the 2744-acre Kamakou Preserve with its unique montane bog, and the secluded Kalaupapa Peninsula, once an isolated community of patients with Hansen's disease. Stop at Kanemitsu Bakery in Kaunakakai for freshly made Molokaʻi sweet bread right out of the oven.

4. Hana, Maui

The 53-mile Hana Highway – also known as the Road to Hana – is as scenic as it is winding. The road twists across 59 mostly one-lane bridges, along plunging cliffs, past waterfalls and around 620 turns to the unspoiled town of Hana on Maui's northeast coast. The drive itself – which can take several hours – is part of the journey. Once in Hana, enjoy hala tree-lined Hamoa Beach , sunbathe at Waiʻānapanapa State Park's black-sand beach, or hike to the 400ft Waimoku Falls in the Kīpahulu end of Haleakalā National Park . 

Planning tip : If you're planning to visit Waiʻānapanapa State Park,  you'll have to book reservations , which can be made up to 30 days in advance. It costs $5 per person and $10 for parking per non-commercial vehicle.

5. Nāpali Coast, Kauaʻi

The towering green cliffs of the fabled Nāpali Coast rise 2000ft from the ocean and stretch 15 miles along Kauaʻi's rugged northern coastline. You can experience these verdant valleys and razor-edged cliffs aboard a catamaran, on a kayak, from a helicopter or along the 11-mile Kalalau Trail.

Planning tip : To get to Keʻe Beach , the start of the Kalalau Trail, you'll need to make advance reservations to enter Hāʻena State Park. It costs $5 for out-of-state visitors to enter the park, $10 for each car.

6. North Shore, Oʻahu

In winter – from November to February – some of the world's best surfers (and thousands of spectators) flock to Oʻahu's North Shore and its 7 miles of famous breaks, from Banzai Pipeline to Sunset Beach . Once in a while, the waves are big enough (consistently larger than 40ft, measured from the front of the wave) at Waimea Bay to hold the prestigious, invite-only Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitation. Summer brings calmer ocean conditions, great for swimming and snorkeling. The colorful beach town of Haleʻiwa features cute boutiques, eateries and the famous Matsumoto Shave Ice shop.

Detour : To get a bird's-eye view of this famous coastline, take the 2-mile ʻEhukai Pillbox hike. The trail climbs the side of the northern Koʻolau Mountains to WWII bunkers that offer panoramic views of the entire North Shore coastline.

7. Haleakalā National Park, Maui

Catching the sunrise at the top of Haleakalā, a dormant volcano that rises to 10,023ft above sea level, is one of the most popular activities on Maui. Reservations are required for sunrise – and the fee doesn't include entrance into the national park – and can be hard to get. Consider viewing the sunset instead and staying for the night sky. The park also has numerous hiking trails through otherworldly landscapes and the chance to see the endangered ʻāhinahina (silversword) and nēnē (Hawaiian goose), the state bird.

Planning tip : The park offers pristine dark skies – with minimal light pollution – perfect for stargazing. Temperatures can drop quickly at the summit, so dress warmly and bring layers. You'll also want to bring your own snacks, as there are no food or drinks available in the park.

8. Hanalei, Kauaʻi

On Kauaʻi's quiet north shore is the sleepy town of Hanalei , marked by emerald green mountains, kalo loʻi (flooded taro fields) and some of the island's best beaches, including the breathtaking Hanalei Bay with its historic pier. Browse art galleries and boutiques, eat fresh poke from Hanalei Poke and plant-based taro doughnuts from Holey Grail, and walk around a farmers market.

Detour : About 2 miles west of Hanalei Bay is Lumahaʻi Beach , made famous by the 1958 classic film South Pacific . This is where Mitzi Gaynor spent her time "washing that man right out of her hair."

9. Maunakea, Hawaiʻi Island

Maunakea , or "white mountain," is, at 13,802ft above sea level, the world's tallest mountain when measured from its base. (More than half, or 19,698ft, of Maunakea lies underwater, making it 33,500ft from base to summit.) It's considered one of the most sacred of all Hawaiʻi volcanoes and is known by Native Hawaiians as a region of the gods. It's also a hub of astronomical observation with more than a dozen massive telescopes from around the world. You can book guided stargazing tours with outfitters like Hawaiʻi Forest & Trail .

Detour : In April,  Hilo , which is about 30 minutes west of Maunakea, hosts the annual Merrie Monarch Festival , a competitive hula festival featuring some of the state's best dancers and performers. You have to book tickets in advance to attend the event, but the craft show, which is a huge draw, is open to the public.

10. Pearl Harbor, Oʻahu

Known for the 1941 attack on the USS Arizona , which launched the US into WWII, Pearl Harbor draws millions of visitors each year to the memorial erected in honor of the 1102 men who are still entombed in the metal hull of the battleship. You can catch a boat to the USS Arizona Memorial , tour the aircraft hangars of the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum , and stand on the decks of the "Mighty Mo" battleship where Imperial Japan formally surrendered in 1945. Pearl Harbor was once known as Wai Momi, or pearl waters, because of its abundant oyster beds.

11. Upcountry Maui, Maui

On the slopes of Haleakalā are the quaint towns of Kula and Makawao, collectively known as Upcountry Maui. Up here, the air is crispier, and the vibe is slower. Pick fresh strawberries in season at Kula Country Farms , wander around the fragrant Aliʻi Kula Lavender Farm , or feed goats at Surfing Goat Dairy. This area is famous for its paniolo , or Hawaiian cowboys.

Detour : Not many visitors know that grapes are grown here. Open since 1974, MauiWine produces wines made from estate-grown grapes, pineapples and raspberries. Visit its tasting room at the picturesque ʻUlupalakua Ranch.

12. Waimea Canyon, Kauaʻi

Called the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," Waimea Canyon, with its buttes, crags and earthen colors, stretches 10 miles long, is 1 mile wide and is more than 3600ft deep. Stop at the Waimea Canyon Lookout for sweeping views of the canyon and the 800ft Waipoʻo Falls . But you can also experience the canyon via numerous hiking trails, on horseback and from a helicopter. Any way you see it, it's breathtaking.

Detour : The best trails are located within the 4345-acre Kōkeʻe State Park . The cost is $5 per person (nonresident) and $10 per car. From the park, you can stop at the Kalalau Lookout at 4120ft above the Nāpali Coast, with commanding views of the lush, amphitheater-headed Kalalau Valley. Camping is available, and the restaurant is worth a stop (but note: it only serves breakfast and lunch.)

13. South Kona, Hawaiʻi Island

Head south from Kailua-Kona, and you'll be in coffee country. This area – Kaʻawaloa (Captain Cook), Hōnaunau, Kāʻu – is known for its high-quality coffee grown exclusively in this high elevation and volcanic soils on the slopes of Hualālai Volcano. There are hundreds of farms here, and many offer guided tours and free tastings. Hōlualoa is a small artsy town with cute shops. Kealakekua Bay in the region of Captain Cook provides some of the island's best snorkeling. And Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park is a sacred place of refuge that you wander on a half-mile walking tour.

Detour : In Keauhou, you can dive at night with the gentle manta rays that swim along this coastline. Seeing these graceful giants glide and twirl in the water with you is an experience you won't likely forget.

14. ʻIolani Palace, Oʻahu

Built in 1882 under King David Kalākaua, ʻIolani Palace in Downtown Honolulu is the only royal residence in the US. It took three years to complete at a cost of $343,595, with Hawaiʻi's first electric light system, flush toilets and intra-house telephones. The last two monarchs of the Hawaiian Kingdom – King Kalākaua and his sister and successor, Queen Liliʻuokalani – resided here until the overthrow of the kingdom in 1893. You can tour this American Florentine-style palace and see its throne rooms, dining rooms and the private living quarters of the royal family.

Detour : Walk to nearby Chinatown and browse the markets or eat at one of the many restaurants – ranging from Korean takeout to poke bowls to restaurants run by James Beard Award-winners and nominees – in this neighborhood.

15. Molokini, Maui

Three miles off shore from Wailea on Maui is Molokini Crater, known for its deep, crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. This crescent-shaped islet is a marine preserve, home to more than 250 species of tropical fish. The only way to get to this popular snorkeling and diving site is by boat.

Planning tip : While the boat ride out to Molokini is typically smooth, the journey back can be tumultuous. If you're prone to seasickness, either sit in the center of the boat where it's more stable or take some motion-sickness remedies.

16. Kailua, Oʻahu

A quick 15-minute drive from Honolulu, Kailua seems like a world away. The beach town is built around Kailua Beach , a powdery-white stretch of sand that runs 2.5 miles long. People fish, surf, kayak, swim and paddle canoes in these waters. Nearby Lanikai Beach , with its unobstructed views of the Mokulua Islands, is another popular stop for beach lovers. It's smaller and more secluded than Kailua Beach, but often more crowded because of its reputation for calm waters and gorgeous vistas. The town itself boasts popular restaurants, boutiques, local breweries and a great locally-owned independent bookshop called Bookends.

Planning tip : Consider exploring Kailua town by bike. You can rent one from The Bike Shop . (There's no city-run bike-sharing on this side of the island.) The shop has a range of cruisers, mountain bikes and road bikes for rent, complete with helmets and bike locks. Electra cruises – the most popular bikes – start at $18 for up to four hours. You can book online and pick it up at the shop.

17. Old Lahaina Lūʻau, Maui

Open in 1986, the locally owned Old Lahaina Lūʻau on Maui has been a favorite lūʻau for decades, showcasing traditional hula , music and food. It's located right on the ocean off Front Street in Lahaina with great sunset views. Tickets include live entertainment, an open bar, historical storytelling and chanting, and an all-you-can-eat buffet with Hawaiian staples like lau lau, kālua pig, poi and poke .

18. Hanauma Bay, Oʻahu

This protected nature preserve in East Honolulu is one of the best spots to snorkel on Oʻahu . About 400 species of fish inhabit this bay, along with honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles) and the occasional endangered Hawaiian monk seal. There are restrictions for access to this popular bay: online reservations are required , and it costs $25 per person for non-Hawaii residents 13 years and older. Parking is another US$3 per car. The bay is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Planning tip : You can rent snorkel gear at the bay, so you don't have to lug your own. While you can walk down the steep road to the beach, you can also opt to take the free tram (we recommend that on the way back to your car).

Least known of all the Hawaiian Islands – and the smallest inhabited island – Lanaʻi is an ideal escape. Stay in luxurious resorts with world-class amenities fronting the beautiful and secluded Hulopoʻe Beach , a designated marine preserve filled with colorful fish and sometimes spinner dolphins. Or explore the rest of the island – the wild and windswept 8-mile Shipwreck Beach (complete with an actual shipwreck), the ancient fishing village of Kaunolū , or visit the strange landscape of Keahikawelo (Garden of the Gods).

Planning tip : If you want to venture outside the resorts of Lanaʻi City, you'll need to rent a four-wheel drive vehicle. There's no public transportation or ride-sharing on the island.

This article was first published June 2021 and updated March 2024

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Planning a Trip to Hawaii: DOs and DON’Ts (2024)

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Planning a trip to Hawaii is something many people dream of. With its stunning beaches, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and lush green hills, it’s one of the most beautiful places we’ve visited but also the most expensive.

While we do think the islands are worth the high price, to make the most of your stay, it’s essential to plan in advance.

In this post, we share our top Hawaii travel tips to show you how to plan a trip to Hawaii that’s perfect for you.

We’ll cover how many days you need in Hawaii, which island to visit, where to stay, the top activities, what you must book in advance, and everything else you need to know.

Video: Hawaii Travel Tips

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Since November 1, 2023, West Maui has been open for travel again (except most of Lahaina, which will remain closed indefinitely) after the devastating wildfire in Lahaina in August 2023.

Visitors to Maui are now encouraged, but please be mindful and respectful of the tragedy that everyone on the island has been impacted by.

Travel to other islands in Hawaii is unaffected.

If you’d like to donate money to support Maui’s recovery, consider the Hawaii Community Foundation’s Maui Strong Fund .

For more information about the ongoing situation, see the Hawaii Tourism Authority website .

Back to Contents

The average stay in Hawaii is about 7 days. I think this is a good minimum time for a trip, although 10-14 days is better if you want to visit multiple islands.

Some visitors do visit Hawaii for 4-5 days, but it’s a long way from the US mainland (or anywhere!) for a short trip, and you’ll spend the first few days adjusting to the time zone change. That said, if it’s all you can manage, it’s better than no time in Hawaii!

If you have a week for your Hawaii vacation, I recommend choosing just one island to visit. See below to find the best Hawaiian island for you.

If you have 10 days in Hawaii, I recommend starting with 3 days in Oahu and then visiting Maui or Kauai for a week.

Choosing the best island to visit is one of the most challenging parts of planning a trip to Hawaii. They are all diverse with lots to offer, so it just depends what you are looking for.

Most visitors to Hawaii visit one of these four islands:

Oahu is by far the most visited and developed Hawaiian island. It’s home to the large city of Honolulu, which includes the famous and very crowded Waikiki Beach (where most visitor accommodation is located).

Oahu offers the most choice of shopping, dining, and nightlife, so if you want to combine city and beach life, this is the best island for you.

It’s also by far the easiest place to manage without renting a car (although I still recommend it). If you stay in Waikiki, you can walk to the beach and many shops, restaurants, and activities.

You can also take tours, Ubers, or the Trolley Bus to nearby attractions including the Pearl Harbour memorial.

Oahu’s North Shore offers a much more relaxed vibe with beautiful beaches and huge waves for surfing in the winter.

Oahu is easy to fit into Hawaii vacations as Honolulu International Airport offers the most flights from the mainland US and international destinations.

Our favourite activities in Oahu are:

• Taking a helicopter ride around the island for stunning views. We recommend the one hour doors off tour with Rainbow Helicopters from Honolulu.
• Snorkelling at Hanauma Bay (be sure to book).
• Relaxing on the Windward Coast beaches especially Waimānalo and Kailua.

See our 7 Day Oahu itinerary for many more tips.

Where to stay in Oahu: Turtle Bay Resort on the North Shore is our favourite place we’ve stayed in all of Hawaii! It is seriously dreamy with incredible ocean views, isolated beaches (with turtles!), stylish rooms, and plenty to do. It feels a world away from Waikiki.

Maui is the second most visited island and is a popular honeymoon destination.

It has gorgeous beaches, world-class whale watching, and the Road to Hana drive where you can see waterfalls, bamboo forest, and black sand beaches.

You can also watch the sun rise above a volcanic crater and visit wineries and lavender farms in Upcountry.

There’s a wide range of resorts, dining, shopping, and activities as well as natural attractions.

Our favourite activities in Maui are:

• Staying overnight in Hana (we love Hana Kai Condos ) to explore popular sights like Waianapanapa without the crowds.
• Whale watching from Lahaina. We saw an incredible amount of humpbacks on our small group boat trip with Makai Adventures (up and running in a new location).
• Relaxing on the beaches of West Maui (with turtle sightings!).

See our Maui itinerary for more tips.

Where to stay in Maui: Kahana Reef has affordable, oceanfront condos on the west coast. We saw whales, turtles, and incredible sunsets from our lanai.

The Big Island (officially called Hawaii) is the youngest Hawaiian island, so it’s not as green as the other islands and has more lava landscapes.

If you want to see an active volcano, this is the island to visit.

It’s the largest island with diverse landscapes from white sand beaches to snow-capped volcanoes.

Our favourite activities on the Big Island are:

• Night snorkel with manta rays. We got incredibly close to these magnificent and huge creatures on our manta trip with Sea Quest .
• Snorkelling at Kealakekua Bay and Two Step .
• Kilauea Iki Trail  – Hiking into a volcanic caldera in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

See our guide to the best things to do on the Big Island for more tips.

Where to Stay on the Big Island: You’ll want to divide your time between the west and east on this large island. Our favourite area was Volcano, where we adored this peaceful cabin in the rainforest . It’s very different from the rest of Hawaii.

Known as The Garden Isle, Kauai is the most lush and green of the islands.

Kauai has become more popular, but it isn’t as developed as Maui or Oahu.

The jagged green cliffs of the stunning Napali Coast are the big draw, but there are also lovely beaches, waterfalls, hiking trails, and multi-coloured canyons.

Our favourite activities in Kauai are:

• Admiring Kauai from above – Our Kauai doors off helicopter ride was spectacular.
• Sailing the Napali Coast – The massive sea cliffs are stunning and we saw whales, dolphins and turtles on the way.
• Seeing turtles and seals on Poipu Beach .

See our post on the best things to do on Kauai for many more.

Where to stay in Kauai: We loved our condo at Kiahuna Plantation on a beautiful beach in Poipu.

Less Visited Hawaiian Islands

If you are looking to get off the beaten track, you could consider visiting one of these smaller, much less visited islands (we haven’t made it to either yet but hope to next time):

• Molokai – Known as The Friendly Isle, on Molokai you’ll find a slow pace of life and more native Hawaiians, but less choice of accommodation and activities. It’s also home to the leper colony of Kalaupapa, which I became fascinated with after reading a couple of these Hawaii books .
• Lana’i – For many years Lana’i was a pineapple plantation and it’s now home to a few luxury resorts like the stunning Four Seasons Lana’i . If you want to enjoy the secluded beaches without the high price tag, the ferry from Lahaina on Maui only takes an hour, so you could visit on a day trip.

Which Side of the Island?

The character of each island also depends on which part you visit.

All the islands have a rainy side where the scenery is lush and green and a dry side where you’ll usually get more sun.

They are both worth visiting, which is why we split our island stays between two or three locations.

Where We Visited in Hawaii

We had 3.5 weeks on our first Hawaiian vacation (in January/February) and divided our time between Kauai and Maui, with one night in Honolulu before our onward flight.

There’s so much to do on each island that we’re glad we didn’t try to add in an extra island.

On our second 3 week Hawaii trip (in October), we spent a week on Oahu (but could have stayed longer) and two weeks on the Big Island.

We love all four of the major Hawaii islands, but our personal favourite is Kauai for the rugged green mountains and more laidback vibe.

There’s no bad time to visit Hawaii as it’s warm year-round, with daytime temperatures rarely dropping below 75ºF (24ºC), even in winter. Each season has its pros and cons.

To See Humpback Whales—Visit in Winter

We were astounded by how many whales we saw in Maui in February. January to March are the best months for whale watching, but you might see a few from November to May.

Winter weather in Hawaii is cooler and rainier than the rest of the year, but we still had mostly sunny days. The ocean is warm enough to swim year-round.

Winter is also the best time for serious surfers, with huge swells on the north shores (especially Oahu).

Christmas and New Year are some of the busiest times on the islands, so avoid them if you are on a budget (and book well in advance).

To Save Money—Visit in the Off-Season

In the spring (April and May) and autumn (September to mid-November), the islands are less crowded (relatively), prices are lower, and the weather is generally good. It can be very rainy on Kauai in April, though. 

For Snorkelling—Visit in Summer

The summer, from June to September, is the best time for snorkelling in Hawaii. The ocean is clearer, calmer, and warmer.

The shoulder months can be good, too—we found snorkelling better in October than in February. This does vary by island.

• Save up – Hawaii is expensive and you’ll enjoy it more if you aren’t worrying about every penny. On our first trip, we spent $267 per person per day (travelling as a couple), including everything except flights from the mainland US. You could spend less by travelling in the off-season, choosing non-beachfront accommodation, and skipping pricey tours. You could also spend a lot more by staying in luxury resorts and eating out for every meal.

• Book your accommodation far in advance – Especially if you are travelling in the high season, want an ocean view, or are travelling to places like Hana or Upcountry on Maui where accommodation is limited. You can search for resorts and hotels on Booking and vacation rentals on Vrbo .
• Consider a condo rather than a resort – For families, stays of a week or more, and for those on a budget, renting a condo with a kitchen is a great way to save money. There are many to choose from and some have resort facilities like pools and beachfront locations. We mostly stay in condos and Kiahuna Plantation on Poipu Beach in Kauai is one of our favourites. Vrbo is a great way to find condos.
• Split your stay – If you want the classic Hawaiian resort experience but can’t afford it for your whole trip, divide your time between a condo and a resort. We did this in Oahu—staying in a condo in Waikiki for 4 nights while we explored the south, then relaxing at gorgeous Turtle Bay Resort on the North Shore for the last 3 nights.

• Camp if you are on a tight budget – It’s not for everyone, but if you don’t mind roughing it, camping is the cheapest way to experience Hawaii. There are some beautiful campsites at beaches and state parks, although you usually need to get permits in advance. See this guide to camping in Hawaii for more tips.
• Search on Kiwi or Skyscanner for the best flight deals – You need to get on a plane to reach Hawaii. The cheapest rates will be from Los Angeles or other West Coast USA cities. Southwest now flies to Hawaii at low rates. You can also get affordable flights from Canada and Japan to Honolulu.
• Fly in and out of different islands – Maximise your time on the islands by flying into one island (such as Kauai) and out of another (such as Maui). I was surprised by how many affordable direct flights there are from the US mainland to places other than Honolulu.
• Rent a car – It’s the best way to see Hawaii and often there’s no other way to reach parts of the islands. At busy times rental cars can run out, so book far in advance. We use Booking.com Car Rentals to find the best deal and just book the cheapest economy car.
• Travel between islands by plane – There are no ferries between islands (except from Maui to Lana’i) so you’ll need to hop on an interisland flight. Most are operated by Hawaiian Airlines and are affordable and short (20 to 50 minutes).
• Consider splitting your time between two or three locations on each island – If you want to do a lot of exploring, this will help avoid long drives to attractions. We’ve done this on all four main islands and it worked out well.

• Book Haleakala sunrise in advance – If you want to see Maui’s most popular sunrise, you must book up to 60 days in advance . If you miss out, try again two days before when more tickets are released.
• Make reservations for some state parks – Non-Hawaii residents need to book in advance for certain parks and pay an entrance and parking fee. These include Haena State Park in Kauai, Waianapanapa State Park on the Road to Hana in Maui, ‘Iao Valley in Maui, and Diamond Head in Oahu. Time slots are released 30 days in advance. Book as soon as possible as they do sell out.
• Pack a sweater – While most of the time you’ll only need summer clothes, it can get chilly on morning boat trips or if you go to higher elevations (like Upcountry in Maui or Waimea Canyon on Kauai) especially in the winter. Sunrise at Haleakala, Maui and sunset at Mauna Kea on the Big Island are freezing and you’ll appreciate as many layers as possible. See the end of this post for more tips on what to pack for Hawaii. 
• Learn a few Hawaiian words – Even if it’s just Aloha (hello and goodbye but also love and compassion) and Mahalo (thank you). I picked up vocabulary by reading the astounding novel Shark Dialogues by Kiana Davenport (which I highly recommend every visitor reads).
• Book restaurants in advance – Upscale restaurants do fill up, so make reservations for anywhere you definitely want to eat (including at resorts). A few weeks in advance should be fine but places like Duke’s on Waikiki Beach book up months ahead. People tend to eat early in Hawaii (around 6pm) so it’s easier to get later reservations.
• Bring cash for tipping – While you can add a tip to your credit card in restaurants, it’s important to have cash for tour guides, valets, and resort staff. If you’re not American, familiarise yourself with tipping etiquette. We tipped 20% in restaurants and sit down bars, $10-20 per person for tours (including for helicopter pilots), $5 for valet attendants (when the car was returned), and around $2-3 a day for hotel housekeeping.
• Plan to visit more than one island per week – You’ll spend too much of your precious Hawaii vacation time travelling and there’s so much to do on each island. While interisland flight times are short, airport security queues can be long (especially out of Honolulu) or flights delayed.
• Forget hidden fees – The listed price for hotels and resorts is rarely what you’ll actually pay. You’ll have to add tax and often a resort fee, cleaning fee (for condos), and parking charge. Check the final total price when comparing accommodation options.
• Visit during holidays – Try to avoid the busiest times of year, especially Christmas and New Year when crowds and prices soar. Thanksgiving week is another busy period. Avoid special events like Iron Man on the Big Island in October. If you must visit then, book far in advance.
• Stay on the beach (maybe) – If you are on a tight budget, you’ll save by staying a short walk or drive from the beach. That said, we often splurge on beachfront accommodation and love it.

• Read novels set in Hawaii – Learn more about Hawaii’s fascinating culture and turbulent history by reading one of these books about Hawaii while you relax on the beach.
• Schedule your most important activities early – Weather can change and cancel activities like boat trips and helicopter rides, so make sure you’ll have time to reschedule.
• Book Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve on Oahu two days in advance – If you want to snorkel at this popular beach, you must make a reservation here at exactly 7am Hawaii Standard Time two days before your visit. Slots sell out in minutes. Tickets are $25. It’s closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

• Use reef-safe sunscreen – Hawaii has banned the sale of sunscreen that uses coral-harming chemicals (oxybenzone and octinoxate). You need a product that uses zinc oxide instead, like this Raw Elements sunscreen . Honestly, it’s a pain to apply, but it’s surprisingly water resistant, and it’s worth it to protect the reefs. Longs Drugs and ABC Stores are good places to pick up all your beach supplies on the islands.

• Wear a rashguard – Even better than sunscreen is to protect your skin by wearing a rashguard in the water, especially when snorkelling.

• Sign up to the Snorkel Report on Maui – You’ll get an email every morning with tips on the best beaches to visit that day. They also rent inexpensive snorkelling and beach gear.
• Check the Hawaii Beach Safety website – To find out which beaches are safe for swimming or best for surfing.
• Go whale watching – It was one of our favourite experiences in Hawaii. We chose a small boat trip with Makai Adventures from Lahaina in Maui and loved it so much we went twice. You can see whales on most of the islands— search for whale watching trips in Hawaii here .
• Hike – All the islands have beautiful trails from easy coastal walks to challenging multi-day treks. It’s a great free way to enjoy the beauty of the islands.

• Rent a Tommy Bahama beach chair and umbrella – Our condos came with these, but you can rent them on the islands inexpensively. They have backpack straps for easy carrying and make beach hopping much more comfortable.
• Bring or rent snorkel gear – If you have space in your luggage, bring your own snorkel and mask. If not, rent it for the length of your stay from a service like Snorkel Bob’s (as we did on the Big Island). I appreciated being able to take a look at the reef whenever we went to the beach.
• Visit a farmer’s market – The fresh produce is usually cheaper and better quality than the supermarkets and there are lots of tasty treats and foodie souvenirs to enjoy.
• Cool off with shave ice – This delicious icy treat is so much better than we expected. Add a scoop of macadamia ice cream on the bottom for maximum tastiness. Our favourites are Waikomo Shave Ice on Kauai and Original Big Island Shave Ice Co on the Big Island.

• Enjoy a Mai Tai on the beach – Touristy yes, but it’s a classic Hawaii experience and these tasty rum cocktails come in cool Tiki glasses.
• Try Li Hing Mui – This dried plum is sweet, salty, and sour. It’s very popular in Hawaii (originating from China), and you can find them whole for snacking (a bit much for me) or as a flavour for many treats. It’s my new favourite shave ice flavour (especially combined with lilikoi/passionfruit and pineapple).
• Drive the Road to Hana on Maui – Most people do this in one day, but we loved spending a few nights in Hana to explore without the crowds.

• Eat all the banana bread – Especially in the Hana area, homemade banana bread sold at farm stalls is so good.
• Indulge in chocolate-covered macadamia nuts – We were addicted to the ones by Moana Loa.
• Let local drivers pass you – They know the winding roads better than you and drive at a faster pace, so pull over and let them pass.
• See Kauai from above – Our doors-off helicopter trip on Kauai was mind-blowing and it’s the best island for a scenic flight. Our Oahu helicopter tour was also amazing. Search for scenic helicopter flights on other Hawaiian islands here .

• Eat in restaurants for every meal – Restaurants are expensive and by self-catering in our condo we saved a huge amount of money. Even if you don’t have a kitchen, you can pick up a pre-made picnic lunch from a supermarket and enjoy it on the beach. Some of our tastiest meals were from food trucks which are far cheaper than restaurants. Hana in Maui and Hanalei in Kauai had the best selection of trucks.
• Underestimate the ocean – Conditions can be dangerous and change quickly and drownings do happen. If you’re not sure it’s safe, don’t swim.
• Turn your back on the ocean – Huge waves can come out of nowhere when you are swimming or even walking along the shore.
• Fight a rip current –  If you get caught in a current, keep calm, float, and wave for help. Go with the current and conserve your energy.
• Touch sea turtles or monk seals – You are likely to come across wildlife on the beaches, but it’s illegal to get too close or touch them.
• Feed fish or other wild animals.

• Trespass – Please respect private property. While all beaches are open to the public, they don’t all have public access routes.
• Litter – Don’t leave anything behind on beaches or hiking trails.
• Park illegally – Respect “no parking” signs and don’t stop on the side of the road. This has become a real problem on the Road to Hana in Maui in particular.
• Steal any rocks or sand .
• Touch or step on coral – Be mindful of where your fins are when snorkelling.
• Leave valuables in your car – And keep any luggage hidden out of sight in the trunk. Rent a mid-size car rather than a compact one (we found these didn’t have an enclosed trunk).
• Laugh at the hula – It’s not just a dance for tourists, but a serious part of local culture.
• Refuse a lei (flower garland) – It’s a symbol of affection and Aloha so wear it with gratitude and don’t take it off in front of the person who gave it to you.
• Wear shoes into someone’s house .
• Rush – Don’t feel the pressure to do everything. Make sure you allow time just to relax by the pool or on the beach. Slow down and enjoy these beautiful islands.

The weather is warm year-round in Hawaii so pack lightweight summer clothes—shorts, t-shirts, dresses, a couple of bathing suits, and a beach cover-up. 

I’m a big fan of PrAna for summer dresses and swimwear. 

There’s no need to pack formal clothes as Hawaii is very casual. 

I do recommend packing one set of warmer clothes for visiting places at higher elevations or boat trips in winter. A pair of jeans or leggings plus a lightweight fleece or sweater should be fine. 

If you are planning on sunrise at Haleakala in Maui or stargazing at Mauna Kea on the Big Island, it can be freezing, so add more layers and perhaps a packable down jacket if you have one (I like the Patagonia Nano Puff Hoody). 

We spend most of our time in Hawaii wearing hiking sandals—they are perfect for beaches and hikes. Many beaches have rough access trails so you’ll appreciate something more than flip-flops.

We both love Teva sandals which are very comfortable for hiking and most models are waterproof so are great for kayaking. Simon likes the Teva Fi Lite sandals and I have the Teva Verra sandals .

I also had a pair of ballet flats for a dressier option for the evenings. My current favourites are the super comfy Allbirds Tree Breezers —see my Allbirds flats review for details. 

For running, I wear the light, breathable Allbirds Tree Dashers .  

Other Useful Items

• Reef-safe sunscreen – Avoid sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate which have been banned in Hawaii. 
• Reusable shopping bags – Plastic bags are banned on the islands.
• Spices – If you are self-catering, you’ll save money by bringing a small amount of spices with you. We bought some at the bulk-buy section of a supermarket on the mainland.
• Water bottle – Avoid creating plastic waste by packing a reusable water bottle. We like the Vapur water bottle as it’s light and packs flat when empty. 
• Packable daypack – These backpacks fit in your luggage on the trip over and are useful for hikes and exploring. 
• Packing cubes – We swear by these as they keep your clothes organised and easy to find in your luggage. 
• Quick-dry beach towel – These lightweight towels dry faster than traditional towels and sand shakes off them more easily. 
• Compact binoculars – There’s so much wildlife to see in Hawaii including whales, dolphins, seals, turtles, and birds. The tiny Olympus 8 x 21 RCII waterproof binoculars were ideal for getting a closer look.

Yes, I think Hawaii is well worth visiting! While it is expensive and can be crowded, there’s something about that stunning scenery and relaxing vibe that entices many of us to visit again and again.

I hope this blog post helps you with how to plan a trip to Hawaii. Let me know if you have any questions and share your Hawaii travel tips in the comments below.

We share more of our Hawaii tips in these posts:

• The Perfect 7 Day Oahu Itinerary
• A Doors Off Oahu Helicopter Tour: Everything You Need to Know
• 25 Best Things to Do in Maui
• The Ultimate Maui Itinerary: The Best of Maui in 7 to 14 Days
• 17 Stunning Road to Hana Stops & Why You Should Stay in Hana, Maui
• Where to Stay in Kauai: The Best Areas and Hotels
• 17 Unmissable Things to Do in Kauai
• A Doors Off Helicopter Tour on Kauai: Is It Worth it?
• 14 Best Beaches in Kauai
• 23 Unmissable Things to Do on the Big Island
• 9 Best Books About Hawaii to Read Before You Visit

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16 Comments

Your review made no mention of exploring the art museum & palace.

These 2 spots are essential visits in Oahu. Exploring how Hawaiian islands last provincial part of royal hawaiian culture just before annexation to the United States as a territory, and later a state is fascinating. The art museum and also Duke Mansion have extremely rare & valuable originals of some of the most revered artists in varying mediums. Picasso, Monet, Rembrant, Matisse, Van gough, O’keife. Really disappointing it is not even mentioned here. I have visited Hawaiian Island more than 10 + times. They are essential stops.

Reply ↓

Thanks for the suggestions, Susanne. Everyone has different priorities, and for us, with limited time in Honolulu, we preferred to focus on the amazing outdoor attractions.

I do think it’s important to learn about Hawaii’s history and culture so I’ve read a lot of books about it.

This is so helpful and thorough! I have been clicking back and forth to different articles. Thank you for putting your time in to such a great resource.

I’m glad you found it useful! Thanks Jennifer for the kind words!

Hi!! Do you have any recommendations on phone/data plans for internationals?💕

We’re currently in the US and are using T Mobile. Simon got an unlimited data plan for $50 a month and bought the SIM in advance from SIM Corner while we were in New Zealand (they ship from various countries).

That was useful as it meant we had the SIM as soon as we arrived (most airports don’t seem to have places to buy SIMs).

I just went into a T-Mobile shop to buy mine and got the cheapest plan of $15 for 2.5GB data valid for 30 days. Plus $10 for the SIM card. All plans have unlimited domestic talk and text.

If you look in the trucks at Farmers Markets….many of the boxes are from COSTCO. If you plan to self-cater, shop at COSTCO first and then Walmart if the island your visiting has one.

Do you know if the Covid restrictions would prevent people from renting a car and doing their own circle tour. These tours are outrageously expensive for only 15 mins at each location. I could easily just use our rental car and take our time seeing what we want to see. So my question is will the State of Hawaii only allow these pricey tours right now because of Covid? For example, I don’t want to drive to see the Halona Blowhole only to find out we can’t get near it because of certain restrictions.

You are allowed to rent a car (as long as you don’t have to quarantine which you shouldn’t if you get a test before arrival) so there’s no reason not to drive yourself. There is high demand for car rentals in Hawaii at the moment (many rental companies sold off cars last year) so book as far in advance as possible.

Hi! Thank you for this article it was very helpful. For the sunrise mountain in Maui, I saw the reservations is per car. Do you drive all the way up or hike? I will be traveling with some older people (70+), so trying to understand the feasibility? Thank you!

Yes, it is per car. You drive all the way up and don’t have to walk more than a few minutes from the carpark to the viewpoint. There are optional hiking trails around for post-sunrise, but it’s still stunning without any walking.

Thank you for the tips to “Bring reusable shopping bags” and “Schedule your most important activities early”. Very good points to keep in mind.

I love that Hawaii has so many places that offer to rent (folding) beach chairs! I find that option sorely missing from the islands in the Caribbean. In fact, I ended up buying an inexpensive beach chair from Wal-mart when we were in Puerto Rico this past winter.

What about tent camping, is that not a viable alternative to the high priced lodging?

Yes, that’s definitely the cheapest way to experience Hawaii. It’s not our thing, although we saw the campsite at Waianapanapa State Park on Maui and you can’t beat the location!

I’ve lived on Kauai for over 40 years. While I agree with nearly everything you say in this excellent article, there was one glaring error that any Kauai resident could confirm. Although visiting off season is, indeed, (somewhat) cheaper and certainly less crowded, the weather in April on Kauai (and generally March) is far from excellent. Many, many visitors to Kauai have had their vacations ruined by our relentless April rains (in fact, much of the north shore is still closed from catastrophic rains over a year ago, and a couple of years before that it rained for nearly 40 straight days (okay, maybe not, but any local will swear by it…). April is by far the worst possible month to visit Kauai and it does your readers a digs-service to urge them to do so.

Thanks for the information Bill. I will update the post.

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18 Hawaii Travel Tips for the Best Vacation EVER

By Author Meg Frost

Posted on Last updated: November 19, 2023

Categories Hawaii

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Wouldn’t it be nice if simply picking a tropical destination, such as Hawaii, guaranteed a perfect vacation?

Unfortunately, it’s not that simple. But that’s what I’m here for!

If you’re planning to visit Hawaii, there’s a few key things to do to make your trip great.

Ready to check them off your Hawaii planning to-do list? Here are 18 Hawaii travel tips to guarantee the best vacation you’ll ever have.

Fly Hawaiian Airlines

First things first, get into the island mindset the second you step on the plane by flying with Hawaiian Airlines.

Once on your flight, you’ll notice that the flight attendants sport a Hawaiian inspired uniform, adding to the overall vibe.

Then, the meals, snacks, and cocktails are infused with island flavors, such as lychee, macadamia, and pineapple.

Lastly, they have a free video magazine on their entertainment system that digs in on the events and people of Hawaii.

To cement the experience, you can preorder a lei welcome, where you will be greeted with a lei made from real flowers.

Hawaiian Airlines partners with several other airlines, so even if they don’t fly from your airport directly, you can connect to one of their flights somewhere along your journey.

Here’s a quick list of who they partner with:

• Japan Airlines
• Virgin Atlantic
• Virgin Australia

For the best deal on your tickets, search for flight options on Google Flights.

On Google Flights, you can filter by airline and also use the Price Graph to adjust your dates for the best deal. Sometimes flying a day earlier or later can really make a difference, price-wise!

Wear sunscreen

Yes, friends, I’m gonna be a mom for a minute and smack you with some sensible advice.

Not only should you wear sunscreen, but you need to reapply it throughout the day too.

I know it’s a drag to slather or spray it on throughout the day, but you’ll risk a bad sunburn if you aren’t proactive about wearing sunscreen.

Getting stuck in your hotel with a sunburn is definitely not where you want to be while on a Hawaiian vacation, right?

So slather that sunscreen on, reapply frequently (especially after being in the water or sweating) and enjoy your vacation!

Use reef safe sunscreen

Not only do you need to be vigilant about wearing sunscreen, but you should make sure you use reef safe or mineral sunscreen .

It is super important that you wear reef safe or mineral sunscreen when in the ocean or fresh water in order to protect the marine life, such as coral reef, fish, and sea turtles, from being damaged by chemicals in regular sunscreen.

If we all do our part in wearing reef safe or mineral sunscreen, we’ll be able to protect Hawaii and its marine ecosystem for future generations to enjoy.

Hawaii stopped selling regular sunscreen in 2021, so if you don’t pack reef safe sunscreen, you really won’t have a choice.

Buuut, reef safe or mineral sunscreens are notorious for leaving a chalky white residue. So if you don’t want to look like the Casper version of yourself, take the time to find the right reef safe suncreen for your skin tone!

Leave your resort

You may have plunked down money to stay at a resort with water slides and multiple pools, but if you want the best experience you need to leave your resort at some point.

It’s the only way you’ll see the real Hawaii.

You won’t get to enjoy the lush hiking trails, marvel at super tall waterfalls, mingle with locals, or see beaches with different colored sand.

But most of all, if you don’t leave the resort, you likely won’t get the chance to support a locally owned and operated business or small business.

By pouring into the local economy, you’ll be doing your part to keep it healthy and thriving for future generations of natives and residents.

Attend a Hawaiian lū’au

A lū’au is a unique Hawaiian celebration with tons of festive food, such as a pig roast.

There’s usually entertainment in the form of hula dancing and music.

A lū’au is typically reserved for big celebrations, but has been adapted by many resorts as a form of entertainment.

If you can score an invite to a lū’au from a local, though, don’t decline!

Witness an active volcano

The Hawaiian islands were once volcanoes, so it’s only appropriate that you check out Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island to round out the best vacation.

At Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, you can witness live volcanic activity (from a safe distance, obviously)! There’s also hiking, biking, and camping available.

That said, please recognize that if the lava flow is endangering the lives of residents, don’t be that tourist.

There’s no need to endanger your life or that of others just to say you witness it live. Use common sense, please.

Get in the water

Surfing is a way of life in Hawaii. While some people around the world start their day with coffee, many people in Hawaii start their day by hitting the waves.

Aside from surfing, there are tons of water-based activities to try, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, stand up paddle boarding, jet skiing, and parasailing.

If you’re looking for an authentic experience, sign up for a sailing experience on a double canoe or paddling in an outrigger canoe.

Learn to Hula

Let loose and learn the traditional Polynesian style of dance called hula.

Hula is a beautiful dance form that incorporates hand movements, footwork, and swinging hips to tell a story.

This is definitely a memory that you won’t forget. While you won’t be an expert hula dancer by the end of your lesson, the experience will no doubt be fun!

Try the local food and drink

My favorite part of traveling somewhere new is trying the local food and drink.

I highly encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and try a few local dishes and delicacies, even if they don’t look like something you’d usually eat.

Keep an eye out for dishes like tuna poke, kalua pork, shave ice, malasadas, loco moco, and haupia (a coconut-based dessert).

Coconut, pineapple, and spam (yes, friends, SPAM) are also popular ingredients in Hawaiian dishes.

As for drinks, kona coffee, mai tais, fresh pressed juice, and anything coconut-based are a must!

See the stars & learn wayfinding

The stargazing you’ll experience while visiting Hawaii just might be the best you’ll ever see, especially if you don’t have regular access to wide open nature with little to no light pollution back home.

While you will be able to see the stars from the beaches, I recommend joining a stargazing tour or visiting an observatory for the ultimate stargazing experience.

Better yet, join a tour that includes teaching about wayfinding via the stars, which is an important part of Hawaiian culture.

While you can definitely leave your resort via organized tours, you’ll be able to pace yourself better if you have a rental car.

You can also be more spontaneous, like pulling off when you see a fresh, local fruit stand or checking out several beaches in one day.

Rental cars are in high demand and at the moment stock is low due many cars being sold during 2020, so if you intended to do a car rental, book early!

Visit more than one island

If time permits, consider visiting more than one Hawaiian island. There are 8 major islands that you can visit and they all have a unique vibe!

Check out my post about island hopping in Hawaii for tips on how to get from island to island so you can design the itinerary of your dreams with ease.

Bring your own snorkel set

While there are plenty of companies that rent out snorkel sets for a day or even for a week, the cost is often the same price OR MORE than purchasing your own snorkel set on Amazon .

Not only will doing this save money over time, you won’t have to share a snorkel mouthpiece with a bajillion other tourists. Gross !

Don’t trespass on private property

There are many popular hikes and attractions that can only be accessed through private property. 

And just because it’s on your bucket list doesn’t mean you can trample all over someone’s private land to do it.

Either get permission (without harassing the land owner) or pick something else to do.

The natives and locals have enough to deal with due to tourists and we don’t have to pile more disrespect on the proverbial plate, mmmkay?

Stay safe at the beach

The waves and currents in Hawaii are nothing to joke about – especially in the Winter, when swells are at their largest. 

And while you may see plenty of people out in the water, keep in mind that they are either locals or professionals who are very much used to surfing, jet skiing, etc in such conditions.

In addition to the swells, there’s a short period of time each year when jellyfish can be a nuisance. 

Check out Hawaii’s Beach Safety Alert page before you head to the beach to ensure it’s safe to go.

Plan ahead & make reservations

More and more attractions, including popular hikes and parks, require a reservation to access.

This helps manage foot and vehicle traffic, as well as with preservation of the environment.

Many of these attraction open up 30 days ahead, so you’ll want to have a rough idea of what you want to do before you go.

So if there is an attraction you really have your heart set on, make sure you check into whether reservations are needed. 

And then check again closer to your trip – because like I said, more and more attractions are doing this, so it could change from when you first looked!

Here are a few top attractions that require reservations:

• Diamond Head State Monument on O’ahu
• Hā’ena State Park on Kauai
• Haleakalā National Park on Maui for sunrise access (3-7 AM) only
• Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve on O’ahu
• Wai’ānapanapa State Park on Maui

Mālama ka ‘aina – Respect the land

Taking care of the land is an important part of the Hawaii culture.

Pick up your trash and dispose of it properly.

No one likes a messy, disrespectful tourist who litters or damages the land.

But more importantly, litter makes the environment unclean and unsafe for creatures big and small. I’ve seen too many animals with their head caught in a can or strings wrapped around their leg.

Plus, let’s not forget: people freaking live here. Don’t make their backyard look like a landfill.

Don’t take home sand, rocks, or shells.

While you might think 1 or 2 scoops is no big deal, if every visitor thought that way, eventually there will be no Hawaii. 

In other words, this contributes to erosion of the beaches and picks away at the environment that is home to many species big and small.

Avoid single-use plastics and paper goods.

Bring a reusable shopping bag, water bottle, and straw.

I love the nylon bags from Baggu because they can fold up into tiny, flat pieces that you can stash in your bag so that you can always have it on you.

As for water bottles, I swear by the Yeti brand . But of course, Stanley cups are all the rage right now, too.

Lastly, this portable straw from Amazon is perfect for travel. It collapses into a tube that you can attach to your bag or keychain.

Skip the illegal vacation rentals

Years back when AirBNB burst onto the tourism scene, people who were tired of expensive hotels and excessive resort fees were quick to check them out.

While I’m all for saving money where I can when I travel, this led to many people buying up properties in tourist hot spots, like Hawaii, driving up the cost of living and pushing locals out of their homes.

Hawaii started to crack down on this by only allowing rental properties within certain zones, while also requiring registration. 

While these days I recommend hotels or resorts in places like Hawaii, I recognize sometimes those are inconvenient and overly expensive for many, such as groups.

So if you must, make sure the rental you’re booking is a registered and approved property. Look for the license number, which is often in the description.

If you don’t see one, just message the seller for it – and if they give you the run around, it’s clearly not legit!

What are your top Hawaii travel tips?

What other things will you do while planning your Hawaii vacation to guarantee a good trip? Let me know in the comments below.

Next up, check out more of my top travel tips for Hawaii and beyond:

• The Absolute Best Things to Do in Hawaii
• Hawaii Captions for Instagram: 100+ Delightful Options
• How to Choose the Best Sunscreen for You
• Snorkeling in Waikiki: Best Spots & Tours
• Where to Watch the Sunset in Waikiki
• Best Sunset Cruises from Waikiki
• What to Pack for Hawaii

About the author

Meg Frost is a Boston-based travel blogger that helps people embrace technology to make vacation planning and traveling wicked easy, affordable, and fun.

She holds an M.A. in Journalism from Northeastern University and B.S. in Communication & American Studies from University of Miami.

Read more →

This post was originally published on January 15, 2017. It was last updated on April 25, 2023.

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Island Hopping in Hawaii: How to Get Between Islands in 2023

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What happened with Hawaiian Airlines, you took them of your list as best Island Hopping Airline? I tried booking and yes you are right, there are lots of waiting times for the different Islands..... too bad there is no more Ferry to Molokai..... Thanks for all your excellent and valuable tips.

Hi Sid! I have a separate post on island hopping in Hawaii. Hawaiian Airlines is great! For inter-island travel with Hawaiian Airlines, you usually have to connect via the Big Island, so it eats into your vacation/holiday time. I still recommend them, but feel it is worth looking into the smaller airlines listed in that post, as well, as they have more direct flights between several islands.

Planning a Trip to Hawaii in 2024: 15 essential details

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

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If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii in 2024, you’re in for a treat. With sparkling waters, stunning sand beaches, waterfalls, volcanoes, and more, Hawaii is an amazing vacation destination. After living in Hawaii for five years (and now making multiple trips back per year), we learned a thing or two about planning the perfect vacation.

Here are the best tips that you need to know to help you have an amazing trip, whether it’s your first time or your 50th:

Jump to some of our most helpful resources: – We’ll help you pick which island is right for you – Learn about the best time to visit Hawaii – Head over to our Where to Stay directory to find the perfect resort or vacation rental – Get all the details on the cost of a Hawaii Vacation for a family and the cost for two

Planning a Trip to Hawaii: What to know before your trip

1. can you visit maui in 2024.

The short answer is: Yes, you can visit Maui in 2024 and the island is welcoming visitors.

After the devastating Lahaina fire in August of 2023, many people cancelled their trips. Travel to the area was discouraged as the community, government, and nonprofits worked to stabilize the area.

While Lahaina is a culturally significant area and was a vibrant community, travel to the town is closed for the foreseeable future as it’s being rebuilt. However, the remainder of Maui is open and welcoming visitors. The other areas of the island were not damaged by the fire in Lahaina.

You can read more on our Maui Fire Update page .

2. What island should you visit?

The first and most important step in planning a trip to Hawaii is to pick the island or islands you want to visit. While the islands do share similarities, there are enough differences that it’s important to spend time deciding which island is right for you.

This video we made will help you pick the perfect island for your trip. But if you’re short on time, and can’t watch it just yet we have  a quick quiz to help you narrow down your options .

Head to Oahu if : you enjoy the nightlife, great food, and a cosmopolitan vacation. It’s also the  best island in Hawaii for hiking .

Fly to Maui if : beaches, snorkeling , and great resorts are your thing.  It’s also the best Hawaiian island for snorkeling .

Pack your bags for the Big Island if : volcanoes, adventure, and swimming with manta rays is on your bucket list.

Kick your feet up in Kauai if : you love jagged cliffs, lush landscapes, food trucks , and a quieter, slower pace.

If multiple islands are calling your name, our island hopping guide will help you plan. You may also want to consider opting for a cruise, we have you covered there, too!

3. What’s the best time of year to visit Hawaii?

There is truly no bad time to visit Hawaii, but there are some factors that make certain times of the year more optimal than others. When we think of the best time to visit Hawaii (or the worst ) we like to break down when to visit based on the best weather, the best cost, and the fewest crowds.

In general, we think that the best time to visit any Hawaiian island is during the shoulder season: September/October and April/May. 

Here’s how we came to that decision:

Hawaii is located in the tropics, which means that you will have warm weather year-round. But there are definitely months of higher rainfall. And if you want to have the best chance of avoiding rain on your trip, you shouldn’t visit during those months.

The chart below breaks down the average rainfall by month for each island. Note, rain varies on different sides of each island — we are showing average rainfall for one popular visitor destination on each island.

A trip to Hawaii is expensive. And coming during a peak time, like between Christmas and New Year, can make your trip even more expensive. If you want your travel dollars to go further and get better deals on accommodations and flights, the best time to visit is during May, September, October, and November. During these months you’ll find better deals on hotel rooms and vacation rental stays. Our full cost breakdown for a family of four to Oahu helps explain the costs.

If you want to know how we budget, book, and reduce the cost of our travel, check out our article on booking a trip to Hawaii .

Avoiding the crowds can mean the difference between getting on the boat tour that you’re excited about or staying on shore. Or finding parking at the beach that you want to visit.

Just like most vacation destinations, Hawaii has very clear busy periods and slower periods. The  Hawaii Tourism Authority does a great job of tracking visitor  arrivals to Hawaii and it’s clear that if you want to avoid crowds, February, April, May, September, and October are the months to visit.

That said, if you’re coming to Hawaii for something very specific, like whale watching, you’re going to be a little less flexible with your timing. Whale season runs from mid-December through mid-April, so showing up outside of those months would be a disappointment.

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

4. How long should your trip to Hawaii be?

Getting away for a vacation can be difficult, but you want to stay long enough to make it worth your while. Hawaii is not a quick trip, even from the west coast. Plan on a 5-hour plane ride and a few hour time difference. So heading to Hawaii for just a few days will make your trip feel rushed and exhausting.

We think that the minimum amount of time you should plan for a trip to Hawaii is one week. During that week you’ll be able to stay on one island and explore a few different areas. You can make the most of your time by using one of our step-by-step itineraries.

If you can, stay longer and see more. And if you plan to island hop , your trip needs to be much longer than one week.

If you know what island you’re planning to head to, you can dive into more of our advice with these articles:

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

5. Where should you stay? Hotel or vacation rental?

Once you know what island you’re visiting, it’s time to book your accommodations. The first big decision comes down to booking a hotel or a vacation rental.

Stay in a hotel if you’re looking for a resort experience: big pools, great service, and daily housekeeping. Book a vacation rental if you are traveling with a group, want more space, and would prefer to have a kitchen instead of eating out every meal.

Still on the fence? You can  read our full breakdown of whether you should choose a hotel or vacation rental for your Hawaii vacation .

If you know what island you’re visiting, we have specific advice on where to stay on each island — locations, hotels, and vacation rentals. Check out our island-specific travel guides:

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

Plus! We have a full Where to Stay directory to share our favorite picks for hotels and vacation rentals on each island.

6. Do you need a rental car?

To fully enjoy your vacation, you probably need to rent a car. But that doesn’t necessarily mean you need to rent it for the entire duration of your stay, especially if you’re staying in Waikiki.

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

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

On the other islands, it’s a bit trickier to go without a car. To see and explore, you’ll probably want to book one. We love using  Discount Hawaii Car Rental  to help us get the best price for a rental car on each island.

Set on not getting a car for your entire trip? Here are some  creative ways to visit Maui without a rental car and here is an itinerary for Oahu without a rental car .

7. How much does a trip to Hawaii cost?

Let’s be blunt: a trip to Hawaii is never cheap. There are definitely ways to save money, but it’s still an expensive destination to visit.

To help you get an idea of how much you should plan on spending (or how much you’ll need to save up), we calculated the cost for a family of 4. We estimate that an average trip cost for a family of four for 10 days is approximately $13,000. You can  read all about how we got that Hawaii trip cost estimate here . But remember this is an initial estimate. Your trip cost will vary based on when you go, what island you visit, and how you want to spend or save your money.

How does an (almost) free trip to Hawaii sound? With all our Hawaii travel, we’ve nailed down using points to book luxury vacations practically free. We started our sister site Booked With Points to show you how to use points and miles in Hawaii too!

Related reads:   What is the cheapest (and most expensive) island to visit? How Much Does a Trip to Hawaii Cost for Two People?

8. How far in advance should you book your trip to Hawaii?

The travel tip we give over and over is: for the best vacation experience, book early. Don’t get disappointed with the lack of availability of rental cars, completely sold-out tours and luaus, and no restaurant reservation availability.

To avoid disappointment, book these things early:

Rental Cars

We recommend booking a rental car when you book a flight. That way you know you have something reserved for you and you won’t be stuck with a 2 door coupe for $500/day for your family of five.

Because it’s important to book your rental car early, we always use and recommend  Discount Hawaii Car Rental . They almost always have the best prices (seriously we’ve saved thousands with them), they book with national carriers, and you don’t have to pre-pay your reservation. So you’re welcome to check prices as often as possible and if you find that prices have dropped, you can cancel your reservation and just make a new one.

Right now we’re seeing some seriously low plane fares from the mainland to Hawaii so people are snatching up seats before looking at the rest of their trip. While plane tickets are cheap lodging is absolutely not. You may be able to find some deals here and there, but we recommend looking at (or even better, booking!) lodging when you book that flight.

Tours and activities

If there is a specific tour or activity that you know you want to do, consider booking it a few months in advance. Luaus and popular tours book up very early, especially during the busier months.

We’ve put together  a list of our favorite tours on each island , to help you get started planning. It took us 18 months and a lot of testing out tours, but we have a list of tours for each island that we’re excited to share.

We have discounts with many of our favorite tour companies, find all our Hawaii Vacation Guide Coupon Codes here .

Entry tickets

There are a number of natural landmarks in Hawaii that require a ticketed entry. The state is trying to protect the natural resources and land by making sure that each spot doesn’t have too many visitors at one time. But with some advanced planning, you can secure your ticketed entry to some of these beautiful locations.

A few popular spots that require ticketed entry include:

• Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve: tickets may be reserved two days in advance of your visit.  Book a Hanauma Bay reservation here .
• Haleakala Sunrise Entry: bookings can be made 60 days in advance (with additional tickets being released two days prior to the date you want to visit).  Book sunrise reservations here . Also consider,  should you go to Haleakala for sunrise or sunset ?
• Haena State Park: Plan your visit to this park on the north shore of Kauai and  book tickets 30 days in advance .

We lay out all the necessary reservation timelines in our island itineraries.  They make your planning so much easier .

“So excited. We have been  loving your itinerary !!! We would have paid triple the price for this. It’s so valuable!” – Sara C. 

Restaurants

If you are hoping to hit up the most popular restaurants in Hawaii, planning ahead is crucial. But how far in advance they accept reservations varies. For example, Mama’s Fish House on Maui accepts reservations 6 months in advance. But Merriman’s on Maui only accepts reservations 30 days in advance. Here are our favorite Wailea and Kihei restaurants , if you plan to go to Maui.

Don’t forget:  all of our island itineraries  have specific instructions on when and how to make reservations for restaurants, activities, and sights on your trip. 

Leaving Maui right now (literally about to board) and we LOVED your wayfinder itinerary. Always had great places to see and yummy food to eat wherever we went! Laura

Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary

Maui Wayfinder Itinerary

Kauai Wayfinder Itinerary

Cruising Hawaii Guide

9. how many islands should you visit on your trip to hawaii.

You’re making a big trip to Hawaii and you want to see as much as possible, but do you have enough time to visit more than one island?  We recommend that if you’re taking a one week trip, you stick to one island . There is a lot to see on each island and you could stay as busy as you’d like to for more than a week, easily. If your trip is 10+ days, you could add on a second island to visit, but know that you will be moving around a bit more and you probably won’t get to see everything on each island that you were hoping to see.

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

Of course, you can always ignore this sensible advice, like a few of our newsletter readers, and read up on visiting all 4 major Hawaiian islands in just 2 weeks .

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

While you’re in Hawaii:

Once you’ve landed in Hawaii, congratulations! Soak up that sunshine and start living that epic vacation life. Here are some important details to know now that you’re on island time.

10. Understand the geography  

Geography on the islands is important because it will affect the weather you experience and what you do while on vacation. One big thing to understand about geography is that each island has a windward and a leeward side.

The windward side of each island faces the tradewinds. Here you’ll get more rain and wind, but you’ll also get lush landscapes (thanks to all of that rain!). The leeward side of each island is more protected from the wind and rain and you will have drier, sunnier weather. Most of the famously beautiful beaches you plan on visiting are located on the leeward side of the island.

For example, on Maui, the leeward side of the island includes some great beaches, like Wailea Beach and Ka’anapali Beach. The windward side of the island is home to the Road to Hana and a lot of beautiful waterfalls.

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

11. Eat local

One of the treats about visiting a new place is the opportunity to try new, local foods that you might not eat back home. Eating local is one of nine ways to have an authentic Hawaiian experience .

There are a few things you should consider trying while you’re here:

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

Sample straight from the ground.  Check out our favorite farm tours on Maui.  

12. See the can’t-miss sights

The beaches in Hawaii are incredible. But there’s a lot more to explore on each of the islands. And, some of these can’t-miss activities can only be done in Hawaii .

Some things you might want to add to your list include:

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

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

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

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

If you want a full bucket list of everything you can enjoy in Hawaii, check out our list of the best things to do in Hawaii , organized by island. There are definitely some unexpected ideas on this list!

13. Bring the right (reef-safe) sunscreen

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

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

14. Snorkel to see amazing sea-life

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

Understand safety risks

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

Use good gear

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

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

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

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

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

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

Go to the best places

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

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

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

Take a snorkeling tour

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

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

• Molokini Sunrise Snorkel with Kai Kanani : beat the crowds to Molokini with this special sunrise snorkeling tour leaving directly from the beach in Makena/Wailea.
• Beach loading snorkeling trip from Ka’anapali : if you’re staying in Ka’anapali, you can’t get more convenient than this tour!
• Na Pali Coast Snorkeling with Holo Holo Charters : Cruise up the coast of Kaua’i and off the island of Niihau for a full day of snorkeling.
• Power Raft snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay with Captain Zodiac : Head to Kealakekua Bay and the Captain Cook monument for the best snorkeling on the island.

Understand the rules protecting sea life

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

15. Learn about the culture of the islands

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

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

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

You can also learn about the local culture, land, sea, and wildlife by volunteering. See if one of these 12 Hawaii Volunteer Programs has volunteer days during your stay. We also cover how to have an authentic Hawaii vacation in this article .

Make your trip planning so much easier

If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii, we’ve got you covered. Our island itineraries help you navigate the planning process and make your trip smooth once you’re on-island. Thousands of customers have loved them, whether they were planning for a trip that was a year away or a trip that was a day away.

“This is not a question but simply a “thank you”.  Our original European vacation plans fell through last minute.  So we had 2 weeks to plan something else…your Vacation Guide was a LIFE SAVER.  We had no idea how to begin planning, which island, where to stay, what to do.  Your honest reviews of the islands led us to Maui for 8 days….Mahalo!!.  You guys are awesome!!” – Eva M.

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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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The 18 Best Places To Visit In Hawaii

• Destinations
• Hawaii (The Big Island)
• United States

Swaying palm trees, glorious sunsets, golden beaches, lush landscapes, and year-round tropical temperatures all await on a getaway to Hawaii. With such lovely surroundings, it’s not hard to simply kick back and relax on a getaway to this remote and beautiful location in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. 

That said, the Hawaiian Islands are also filled with a spectacular array of activities to enjoy. Whether you’re the type to pack in as much as you can on vacation, or balance a little sightseeing with beach time, Hawaii offers a variety of things to do , ranging from snorkeling trips and helicopter tours to opportunities to learn about local culture and history.

We’ve rounded up some of the best places to visit in Hawaii, arranged by island, below. But first, as you’re planning your trip, consider participating in a small service project while you’re there — a simple way to give back to a special place that has served as a popular vacation destination for decades (with all of the impact on the local environment that tourism can bring). Visitors can clean up beaches, plant native trees, and even restore a historic battleship. Check out a number of offerings here — some volunteering projects affiliated with the new Malama Hawaii program can even net you free hotel rooms or other special discounts at certain resorts. 

Oahu: Places to Visit

Oahu is home to Hawaii’s capital city of Honolulu, where you’ll also find bustling Waikiki Beach, plenty of shopping options, and some incredible restaurants with local seafood on the menu. Further afield, the North Shore is known for its huge waves for surfers. With significant historic sights, opportunities to learn about the local culture, and natural wonders, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Oahu . 

Hike Diamond Head Crater 

This volcanic crater just east of Waikiki Beach is part of Diamond Head State Monument . Its main hiking trail is well marked and includes concrete walkways and steep steps — locals like to conquer the summit for an outdoor workout. The distance is .8 miles each way. From the top you’ll enjoy a spectacular view of Honolulu, surrounding mountains, and the vast blue ocean. 

Pay Your Respects At Pearl Harbor

Pearl Harbor National Memorial commemorates the attack on the American military on December 7, 1941, marking the United States’ entry into World War II. The USS Arizona Memorial serves as the final resting place for the more than 1,100 military service people who were aboard that ship at the start of the attack (in total, more than 2,400 soldiers, sailors and service people died that day). Pearl Harbor is a somber visit, but one well worth your time to not only honor fallen military, but also learn about a key moment in U.S. history through several multimedia exhibits. 

Snorkel At Hanauma Bay

The coral reefs found in tranquil Hanauma Bay are the habitat for many different colorful fish. This is a protected spot with gentle water that’s ideal for even first-time snorkelers; you can rent snorkel gear on site. A reservation system is currently in place, allowing for a limited number of guests each day in order to help protect this sensitive environment. Don’t forget to pack your reef-safe sunscreen !

Tour Iolani Palace

King Kalakaua built Iolani Palace in 1882, and the grand estate served as a royal residence until the Hawaiian monarchy was overthrown in 1893. You can learn all about the history of this sacred spot — an ancient place of worship — through a number of different tours, either self-led or guided by a docent. 

Learn At The Polynesian Cultural Center

Oahu’s Polynesian Cultural Center is a great way to immerse yourself in the history and culture of not only Hawaii, but other areas of Polynesia, such as Tahiti, Fiji, and Samoa. When you step into the different villages, you’ll learn — through interactive demonstrations — about the people who have called these areas home for centuries. There’s also an opportunity to enjoy an extravagant luau, complete with traditional food, song, and dance.

Maui: Places to Visit 

Maui has not only magnificent beaches along its coast, but also opportunities to cool off when you journey into the mountainous area. Superb snorkeling and scenic drives are just a few of the memory-making things to do in Maui , also known as the “Valley Isle.”

Visit Haleakala National Park

This remarkable and sacred spot is a must-see on Maui. And the best time to experience the beauty of Haleakala , a dormant volcano, is from its summit in the early morning, when the sun breaks through the clouds and rises above peaks to the east. You’ll need reservations to enter the park between 3 a.m. and 7 a.m. (yep, it’s an early wake-up call!). If you don’t want to rent a car and do it alone, plenty of tour operators offer excursions with transportation — and often breakfast — to witness this spectacle.

Head Into The High Country

In addition to exploring Haleakala National Monument, there are some remarkable things to do in Maui away from the beaches. Consider touring the Ali’i Kula Lavender farm, visiting Maui Wine to sample pineapple and other fruity varieties, or visiting the art galleries of Makawao of “upcountry” Maui.

Drive The Road To Hana

With one-lane bridges, switchbacks, and hairpin turns, the Road to Hana — a 52-mile stretch of pavement hugging the coast from Kahului to Hana — is not for the faint of heart. In fact, the tourism folks at the Hawaii Tourism Authority recommend making this excursion with professional guides on an organized tour. With someone else behind the wheel, you can more safely admire the gorgeous passing scenery! Neat stops along the way include cascading waterfalls, a stand of rainbow eucalyptus trees, and fresh food stands.

Go Whale Watching

Prime time for whale watching in Maui is the winter and early spring, when the majestic humpback whales migrate to the area from the northern Pacific. Book a whale-watching boat tour to learn from onboard naturalists, or try to spot them frolicking in distant waves from the shores of Kaanapali, Makena, and Wailea beaches.

Snorkel Around Molokini

Off the coast of Makena Beach, on the southwest side of Maui, is Molokini Crater . The crystal-clear waters around this crescent-shaped landmark are a great place to experience snorkeling in Maui, with the abundant number of colorful fish here. Several companies offer snorkeling tours to the region; typically a catamaran trip also includes a stop at Turtle Town, where you can spot green sea turtles hanging out in the coral reef.

Kauai: Places to Visit

Active travelers love Kauai with all of its options for hiking, snorkeling, ziplining, river kayaking, and even tubing through interior waterways. Lush with green valleys and dubbed the “Garden Isle,” Kauai is Hawaii’s oldest island — the first to be formed by a volcanic eruption millions of years ago.

Experience The Napali Coast

On Kauai’s North Shore, the Napali Coast is a jaw-dropping display of cliffs rising from the ocean. Group this rugged landscape with cascading waterfalls and pristine beaches, and you’ve got some spectacular scenery that’s best viewed from air (via helicopter) or sea (via boat or kayak). Otherwise, to access it by land, you’ll need to make reservations to hike along the Kalalau Trail , which is 22 miles round trip, but you could bite off a small chunk just 2 miles to Hanakapi’ai Beach if you’re game for something shorter. 

Go Mountain Tubing

In cold-weather climates, mountain tubing is sailing down a snowy hill in a blown-up inner tube. In tropical Kauai it’s floating along a former sugar-cane plantation irrigation ditch — one of the most unique water adventures in Hawaii. This is a mellow ride, where you simply need to kick back in the tube and let the natural flow of the water carry you along through the narrow canals and tunnels.

Give Surfing A Try

You’ll find plenty of surf schools on Kauai, whether you’re staying on the South Shore of Poipu or up north in Hanalei Bay. If you’re brand new to the sport, you’ll get a lesson on land first to practice hopping up on the board. Then you’ll get into the water with an instructor, who will likely hold on to your board and give you a nudge when the perfect wave comes along to ride into shore.

Fly Through The Air While Ziplining

Soar over a rainforest canopy and deep valleys on an exciting zipline tour. Several outfitters on the island offer such experiences, and it’s an adrenaline-charged way to get a bird’s eye view of Kauai’s pretty scenery — perhaps while facing some fear of heights at the same time!

Big Island (Island of Hawaii): Places to Visit

Officially known as the island of Hawaii, it’s more often referred to as the Big Island, due to its size (yes, it’s the biggest of the bunch). This unique place boasts a stunner of a national park as well as active volcanoes and black-sand beaches. The west side of the island of Hawaii also has a perfect climate for growing world-famous Kona coffee.

View A Volcano From Above On A Helicopter Tour

When Kilauea, one of the Big Island’s active volcanoes, is erupting , it’s an especially awesome time to book a helicopter tour of the island to see the glowing red molten lava flow into the ocean to create billowing acid mist called “laze.” But even when Kilauea is in a quiet phase, a helicopter tour of the island of Hawaii provides really cool views of lush mountains, black-sand beaches, and tall waterfalls. 

Traipse Around Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

The active Kilauea volcano is located inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, so a visit here will allow you to see steam rising from its multiple vents. Visit at night during an ongoing eruption and you may witness a fiery “lava lake” — bring a flashlight to maneuver safely. At this magnificent national park you can also walk through the giant Thurston Lava Tube , which is a tunnel that was cut into the earth by boiling, flowing lava about 500 years ago. 

Visit A Kona Coffee Farm

The climate in the Kailua-Kona area of Hawaii, on the island’s west side, is ideal for growing coffee beans. Learn how the beans are farmed and roasted at one of the local coffee farms . Tours (often free) may include a sample, but at the least you can purchase the authentic Kona coffee directly from the people who produce it — a perfect souvenir that supports a local business.

Stargaze At Mauna Kea

Early Hawaiians named the giant dormant volcano “Mauna Kea,” which means “white mountain,” as snow regularly dusts its 14,000-foot summit. Visitors can drive (or take a tour) to the visitor center at 9,200 feet to cool off at the high elevation on hot days. Tours also run to the visitor center or the summit for stargazing and planet viewing — Manua Kea’s remote location allows for an especially sparkling sky on clear evenings. 

For more things to do in Hawaii:

• 9 Amazing Hawaii Vacation Rentals Perfect For A Winter Escape
• How To Experience The Only Lava Tree Forest In The World
• Don’t Sleep On Hilo, Hawaii: 12 Reasons To Make It Part Of Your Big Island Visit

In her editorial career spanning more than 30 years, Kara Williams has served as a magazine editor, newspaper reporter, corporate copy editor, and proofreader. Currently, as a freelance writer, Kara focuses on all things travel, from sublime spas and upscale hotels to RV camping and outdoor adventures. National parks, romantic escapes, and tropical destinations are other favorite travel topics she covers. Kara has won Lowell Thomas, SATW Western Chapter, and NATJA awards for her work. An empty nester, she makes her home in the Colorado mountains with her husband and writes about her travels at her blog, Life Here & There . Learn more about Kara on her portfolio website .

Most Beautiful places

Choosing the Right Island for Your Trip

All-Inclusive Resorts

Family-Friendly Hotels

Top Things to Do

Best Beaches

Surfing in Hawaii

Scenic Road Trips

Annual Events and Festivals

Food to Try

Best Hawaii Breweries

Chocolate Tours in Hawaii

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Getting Around the Islands

Airports in Hawaii

One-Week Itinerary

Top Destinations

The Top 15 Destinations in Hawaii

Putting the finishing touches on a trip to Hawaii is a dream come true for most travelers, and crossing that destination off your bucket list wouldn’t be complete without catching some of the best destinations the state has to offer.

History buffs won’t want to miss the iconic Pearl Harbor on the island of Oahu, as well as the Polynesian Cultural Center, Bishop Museum, and Kalaupapa National Historical Park on Molokai. Hike through jungles and botanical gardens to view the waterfalls at Manoa Falls, or book a thrilling zip line tour at Kualoa Ranch, also on Oahu. The famous Road to Hana road trip on Maui attracts visitors from all over the world, and the majestic Volcanoes National Park and Mauna Kea on Hawaii Island are unlike anywhere else on earth. For nature-lovers, head to Haleakala National Park on Maui to witness a unique blend of different climates ranging from tropical to arid. Check out the scene on the popular Waikiki Beach and Kaanapali Beach, or hike to the top of Diamond Head to catch unrestricted views of the Pacific Ocean. On Kauai, the sea cliffs along the Na Pali Coast are unparalleled, and on Maui, the views from the top of Waimea Canyon will take your breath away.

When it comes to choosing which island to stay on, there are no bad choices. Each island brings its own unique flavor to the table, whether you’re into shopping, the outdoors or a fun foodie scene.

Pearl Harbor

 Sean Davey / Aurora Photos / Getty Images

One of the most defining moments in United States and world history took place right on the island of Oahu at Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941. Japan’s military airstrike sunk four of the eight battleships present in Pearl Harbor at the time and destroyed more than 180 aircrafts that were on the ground, killing more than 2,000 American sailors, soldiers, and marines. Pearl Harbor remains a military base to this day, and visitors are welcome to come pay their respects. There are four main attractions at Pearl Harbor: the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Bowfin Submarine, the USS Missouri Battleship, and the Pacific Aviation Museum, and you’ll need to secure tickets for each either online or on-site. Tourists short on time can visit walk-through museums at the visitors center, which is free to enter. Not staying on Oahu? Since Pearl Harbor is arguably the most popular activity in the entire state, multiple tour agencies offer one-day tours from Big Island, Maui, and Kauai that include airfare and transportation.

Na Pali Coast

 jimkruger / Getty Images

Along the coastline of Kauai’s northwestern shore, the giant cliffs of the Na Pali State Wilderness Park absolutely stun everyone who sees them. The famous Kalalau Trail is one of the most famous hikes in all of Hawaii, and the five valleys that make up the area are full of dense vegetation, lush jungles, and hidden waterfalls. Experience the Na Pali Coast by land, air, or sea and see for yourself why this majestic corner of Kauai island holds a special place in Hawaii.

 JTSorrell / Getty Images

Mauna Kea on the Big Island is considered a very sacred place for the Native Hawaiians and should be treated as such. Additionally, it is the home for a variety of rare plant and animal species, some of which can only be found on the unique climate of the mountain. In addition to regular star-gazing programs, the Visitors Center hosts local community speakers to lead discussions and speeches about Mauna Kea from a cultural perspective on the fourth Saturday of each month. The Visitor Station is located at 9,200 feet above sea level and the summit is 13,796 feet, so altitude sickness may be a cause for concern for visitors with health issues.

Waikiki Beach

 Glowimages / Getty Images

You’d be hard-pressed to find an Oahu tourist who hasn’t set foot on Waikiki Beach ; it is hands-down the most popular and famous beach in the Hawaiian islands. A majority of visitors to the state stay within this 2-mile stretch of coastline on Oahu’s south shore. It is a shopping destination for both international and domestic travelers, a foodie destination for restaurant enthusiasts, and overall the most happening spot in Hawaii. Stay at the legendary pink-colored Royal Hawaiian Hotel or the oldest resort in Waikiki, the Moana Surfrider. There are also more budget-friendly options further inland because let’s face it, you won’t be spending too much time in the room with a beautiful beach just steps away.

Diamond Head

 NNehring / Getty Images

The most iconic landmark on the island of Oahu is hard to miss when flying into Honolulu. Diamond Head was formed by a volcanic eruption more than 300,000 years ago and was historically used by the American military as a lookout to defend the island. Hike the Diamond Head Summit Trail to view the beach below and the surrounding Pacific Ocean from the edge of the crater—it is one of the most trafficked hikes on Oahu.

 Kelly Headrick / Getty Images

Driving the Road to Hana along Maui’s famed Hana Highway is a rite of passage for any Hawaii tourist. The narrow, winding road contains one-lane-bridges, numerous switchbacks, and sheer cliffs, so caution is key. The reward, however, is a once-in-a-lifetime road trip with pull-outs to adventurous hiking trails, cascading waterfalls, stands of locally grown fruit, and more. The town of Hana (where most drivers choose to make their final destination) doesn’t have a lot to see, but this drive is about the journey, not the destination.

Bishop Museum

 LanaCanada / Getty Images

With a sharp focus on history, science and Hawaiian culture, The Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum is a great choice for those who only have time for one museum in Hawaii. It has become the official (and largest) state museum of natural and cultural history since opening in 1889 by Charles Reed Bishop (late husband of Bernice Bishop, a descendant of the royal Kamehameha family). Visit their signature galleries, special exhibits and planetarium daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Kualoa Ranch

 maximkabb / Getty Images

If you’ve ever seen photos of visitors horseback riding, ziplining, or ATVing with the most epic backgrounds behind them, chances are they were at Kualoa Ranch on the northeast side of Oahu. The privately owned nature reserve is home to a working cattle ranch, fishery, and garden producing some of the finest ingredients that the island has to offer, but the 4,000-acre space doesn’t stop there. There are a number of exciting and unique expeditions offered by Kualoa Ranch, from jungle expeditions to ultra-terrain vehicles to electric bike-riding.

Haleakala National Park

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Perhaps one of the most scenic areas in the state, and spanning more than 30,000 acres of Maui land, Haleakala National Park encompasses a famous dormant volcano rising more than 10,000 feet above sea level. You’ll find important cultural sites all throughout the park in both the summit and Kīpahulu district of the park. Haleakala translates into “house of the sun” in the Hawaiian language, and it is easy to see why. Most visitors experience the park through sunrise by waking up early to drive all the way up the mountain to the Haleakala Visitors Center, undoubtedly a once in a lifetime experience. Don’t worry if you’re not a morning person, Haleakala can be experienced any time of the day through its various hiking trails—some people even drive up to the Visitors Center in the evening to catch the sunset and do some stargazing.

Polynesian Cultural Center

 Radius Images / Getty Images

Get a feel for the history of the Pacific Islands at the Polynesian Cultural Center in Laie, Oahu. The 42 acres cover simulated villages representing six different islands: Tonga, Tahiti, Samoa, Aotearoa, Fiji, and Hawaii. Their evening luau has been rated one of the best in the state, and it is certainly one of the most popular.

Volcanoes National Park

 Kevin Thrash / Getty Images

Ever wanted to witness new Hawaiian land being created right in front of your eyes? Volcanoes National Park on Hawaii Island celebrates everything that makes Hawaii what it is, literally. All of the islands were formed from volcanic activity, and the Big Island is still growing. Schedule an unforgettable helicopter tour to fly over the active lava flowing into the ocean, explore the park on foot through lava tubes and volcanic lava rocks, or complete a scenic drive around the grounds. Make your first stop the Kīlauea Visitor Center to get information and plan your visit.

Manoa Falls

 segawa7 / Getty Images

One of the most beautiful hikes on Oahu is located just beyond the outskirts of Honolulu. Hiking Manoa Falls Trail is like stepping straight into the past; you’ll almost expect to see a dinosaur trekking through the distance. At the end of this journey through a lush tropical rainforest you are rewarded with a beautiful 150-foot waterfall surrounded by streams and rocks. Along the way, look out for bamboo forests, native plants, birds, and hau trees. As with any hike in Hawaii, be sure to be respectful of the land, bring out what you brought in, and do your best to keep this beautiful, sacred area in great condition.

Waimea Canyon

 NIntellectual / Getty Images

Also known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” Waimea Canyon provides breathtaking views on the island of Kauai. Choose to experience the canyon through short scenic trails or longer day hikes that take you into the bottom of the vibrant gorge. The red-colored soil and Hawaiian flora here makes for some unparalleled and unforgettable views. The waterfall flowing into the canyon, which is 3,000 feet deep in some spots, can be seen from numerous lookout points throughout the area.

Kaanapali Beach

While Waikiki offers a more robust, party-like atmosphere, Kaanapali Beach is known for a more laid-back vibe—it was even named “America’s Best Beach” by Dr. Beach. Water sports such as surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are available along the shore and snorkeling is very good as well. Head to the north side of the beach towards Black Rock for the best snorkeling, and you might even spot a turtle or two munching on algae or seagrass.

Kalaupapa National Historical Park

 GeoStock / Getty Images

Hidden away on the smaller island of Molokai, Kalaupapa National Historical Park holds a lot of history within its borders. Hawaii’s King Kamehameha V made the decision to turn the Kalaupapa region of Molokai into confinement for those suffering from leprosy after the disease was introduced to the Hawaiian islands. Since the year 1866, more than 8,000 patients have died there, and there are still fewer than a dozen living inside Kalaupapa in isolation. Tours are available through select companies only.

The 20 Best Things to Do in Hawaii

Hawaii Guide: Planning Your Trip

17 of the Most Beautiful Places in Hawaii

The Top 10 Reasons to Visit Hawaii

Which Hawaiian Island Should I Visit?

How to Get Around and Explore Hawaii

The Best Road Trips to Take in Hawaii

Honeymoon in Hawaii

Your Trip to Maui: The Complete Guide

Best Hawaii All-Inclusive Hotels

Your Trip to Oahu: The Complete Guide

Maui's Top 10 Parks

Honolulu, Waikiki, and Oahu Gay Guide and Photo Gallery

The Top 17 Things to Do on Oahu, Hawaii

A Guide to Airports in Hawaii

Your Trip to Kauai: The Complete Guide

Best Time to Visit Hawaii: A Month-by-Month Breakdown

Are you planning a trip to hawaii but aren’t sure when to go keep scrolling to find out the best time to visit hawaii., this guide to the best time to visit hawaii was written by marcie cheung (a hawaii travel expert) and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Hawaii is a popular travel spot, known for its beautiful beaches, green mountains, and unique culture.

Many people dream of visiting this paradise. But when is the best time to go?

Why trust my insights? My numerous trips (over 40!) to Hawaii have given me a rare depth of knowledge about the islands.

I’ve visited during peak season, school breaks, and when there were fewer crowds. Here are a few things to think about before planning a trip.

The weather can be different throughout the year. Winter months are during the rainy season and summertime is during hurricane season.

There are special events and festivals that happen in certain months. Also, some times of the year might be more expensive or crowded than others.

In this guide, we’ll look at each month to help you pick the best time for your trip to Hawaii. We want to make sure you have the best time possible!

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

Best Time to Go To Hawaii

Visiting hawaii in january: a fresh start to the year.

January in Hawaii offers a refreshing change from the typical winter scene. While the mainland may be in the grip of cold, Hawaii greets visitors with cooler but pleasant temperatures, making it a cozy time to explore.

But the real treat?

January is prime whale-watching season . Grab your binoculars, because the majestic humpback whales grace the Hawaiian waters during this time, presenting a spectacular natural show.

We usually have the best luck seeing whales on Maui !

For sports enthusiasts, the island of Oahu buzzes with excitement as the PGA Tour’s Sony Open takes place in Honolulu. It’s a grand event that attracts golfing aficionados from around the world.

As for the crowds, January sees a mix. The early part of the month still holds onto the holiday rush, but as the month progresses, the crowd thins out, and there’s a slight drop in prices.

It’s a fantastic balance of vibrant events, natural wonders, and serene moments.

Hawaii in February: Romance and Revelry

February in Hawaii continues to be a prime time for nature enthusiasts, as the humpback whales remain the stars of the show, gracing the waters with their majestic presence.

These gentle giants provide unparalleled viewing experiences that resonate with both first-time visitors and returning fans.

However, the islands also burst into a lively mood with the Waimea Town Celebration on Kauai. This vibrant event is a beautiful mix of Hawaiian culture, music, and food, making it a must-attend for anyone visiting Hawaii during this period.

And, speaking of special moments, imagine spending Valentine’s Day in paradise ! Hawaii in February offers a romantic backdrop like no other.

Whether you’re strolling on moonlit beaches or enjoying a candlelit dinner with ocean views, the Aloha spirit makes Valentine’s celebrations even more magical.

February truly captures the heart and soul of Hawaii’s charm.

One thing to point out is that a lot of travelers take advantage of February holidays (like President’s Day) and some schools have a mid-winter break.

March in Hawaii: Spring Awakens

As winter gives way to spring, Hawaii undergoes a gentle transformation in March .

The islands experience a delightful shift in weather, with temperatures beginning to warm up and nature bursting into vibrant hues, echoing the rejuvenating spirit of spring.

A highlight of the month is the Honolulu Festival .

Celebrated primarily on Oahu, this event showcases the rich cultural tapestry of the Pacific region. With dance performances, art displays, and grand parades, the festival draws visitors and locals alike into a world of shared heritage and unity.

However, with spring’s arrival, so comes the influx of Spring Break travelers. Popular spots like Waikiki Beach or the North Shore can get bustling, as families and students flock to enjoy the sun and surf.

It’s a lively time to visit, with a contagious energy in the air, but those seeking solitude might prefer the quieter corners of the islands.

April in Hawaii: Traditions and Tranquility

April in Hawaii welcomes visitors with mild temperatures and the promise of clearer skies, as the rainfall becomes a tad less frequent.

The landscapes gleam in the gentle sun, making it a picturesque time to explore the islands.

An event that truly embodies the spirit of Hawaii in April is the Merrie Monarch Festival .

Hosted in Hilo on the Big Island, this week-long celebration is dedicated to King David Kalākaua and is a grand showcase of Hawaiian culture, especially hula. Dancers from across the globe participate, making it a vibrant and unforgettable spectacle.

If you’re considering a trip around Easter , you’re in for a treat.

While Hawaii embraces its unique traditions, Easter festivities blend seamlessly. Beachside Easter egg hunts and sunrise services are quite popular.

However, do note that this period might see a slight surge in visitors, given the holiday season.

Our kids usually have spring break in April and we definitely notice larger crowds and higher airfare in early April.

Plan ahead for a smooth vacation experience.

May in Hawaii: A Serene Prelude to Summer

May is a gem of a month to visit Hawaii. As the islands bask in dry and calm weather conditions, it offers the perfect prelude before the high energy of summer sets in.

The balmy days and slightly cooler nights make for comfortable explorations, whether you’re hitting the beach or trailing through the lush rainforests.

One of the most heartwarming events in May is the Lei Day Celebration .

An ode to the Hawaiian tradition of lei-making, this day sees locals and visitors donning these fragrant garlands, reflecting the Aloha spirit in full bloom.

Traveling to Hawaii in May comes with the distinct advantage of the shoulder season. Not only do you get to avoid the peak summer crowds, but you often find better deals on accommodations and flights.

In essence, May promises an intimate Hawaiian experience, blending tradition, weather, and travel perks seamlessly.

May is hands-down one of my favorite times to visit Hawaii. That’s because flight prices are usually decent and the weather is comfortable.

June in Hawaii: Summer Splendor Begins

As the calendar flips to June , Hawaii welcomes the onset of summer with sun-kissed beaches and azure waters beckoning travelers to dive into paradise.

The weather turns warmer, but the gentle Pacific breezes ensure comfort, making it ideal for sunbathing or taking a refreshing dip.

A significant highlight of June is King Kamehameha Day .

This day commemorates the legendary king who united the Hawaiian Islands. Across the state, grand parades, hula performances, and vibrant floral processions honor his legacy, offering visitors a deep dive into Hawaii’s rich history and traditions.

However, with summer’s arrival comes the school holidays. Families flock to the islands to make the most of their break, which means popular tourist spots might get a bit crowded.

If you’re seeking tranquility, consider venturing into lesser-known areas. Nonetheless, June’s allure lies in its blend of history, sunshine, and island festivities.

July in Hawaii: Sizzling Summer Delights

As July rolls around, Hawaii truly embraces its tropical charm. With warm temperatures bathing the islands, it’s the epitome of a sun-soaked paradise.

The balmy days, complemented by refreshing ocean breezes, create the quintessential beach holiday mood, inviting everyone to indulge in island adventures.

A gastronomic treat awaits in July with the Hawaii Food & Wine Festival .

This event attracts foodies from all over, celebrating the culinary diversity of the islands. Local chefs team up with international culinary stars, presenting dishes that are both an art and a sensory delight.

Moreover, the Fourth of July , or Independence Day, is fun in Hawaii. While traditional BBQs and beach picnics are common, what truly stands out are the mesmerizing fireworks displays, especially in areas like Waikiki.

Amidst the summer fun, July in Hawaii offers a blend of culinary escapades and patriotic festivities.

August in Hawaii: Sunlit Serenades and Summer’s Farewell

August is the hottest month in Hawaii. In fact, it can be downright muggy.

It feels super tropical and sunny. The beaches are bright and inviting, making it hard to stay away from the sparkling water.

Yet, even in this warmth, Hawaii’s trade winds bring a cooling relief, making outdoor activities and ocean plunges all the more inviting.

For those with an ear for music, August hosts the Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Festival , an event that celebrates one of Hawaii’s most beloved musical traditions.

The melodious tunes of the slack key guitar, played against a backdrop of palm-fringed horizons, is a soul-soothing experience few other places can offer.

As August in Hawaii nears its end, the islands experience the wind-down from the summer holidays.

While the early weeks still resonate with the vibrant energy of summer vacationers, the latter part of the month brings a more relaxed atmosphere, setting the tone for early fall.

September in Hawaii: Welcoming Fall with Aloha

September in Hawaii marks the gentle shift from the height of summer to milder, more temperate days. The intense warmth starts to wane, giving way to softer, more comfortable temperatures.

This transitional phase bathes the islands in a delightful blend of sun and breeze, making it an ideal month for those seeking a balanced tropical experience.

The month is also home to one of Hawaii’s most cherished celebrations: the Aloha Festivals .

This statewide cultural extravaganza honors Hawaii’s music, dance, and history. With parades, hula shows, and traditional chants, it’s a vibrant showcase of the islands’ rich heritage and the spirit of ‘Aloha’.

One of September’s best-kept secrets?

It’s a month that often sees fewer visitors, thanks to school sessions resuming. This low crowd advantage means quieter beaches, shorter queues at attractions, and a more intimate, relaxed Hawaiian vacation experience.

October in Hawaii: Cinema, Celebrations, and Calm

October in Hawaii greets visitors with a refreshing ambiance.

While the temperatures remain comfortably warm, there’s a noticeable increase in occasional rainfall, draping the Hawaiian islands in a fresh, rejuvenated glow.

These brief showers, often followed by rainbows, add to the magic of the Hawaiian landscape.

For film enthusiasts, October is a treat. The Hawaii International Film Festival takes center stage, showcasing a curated selection of global cinema, with a special emphasis on Pacific-Asian films and narratives.

As the month concludes, Halloween festivities kick in. From themed beach parties to spirited street parades, Hawaii embraces the spooky season with its unique island twist.

Traveling in October also offers the benefits of the fall shoulder season.

With fewer tourists around, you can enjoy better deals on accommodations, reduced wait times at popular spots, and a tranquil atmosphere that makes exploring Hawaii even more serene.

November in Hawaii: Raindrops, Revelry, and Retail

November in Hawaii marks the onset of the islands’ rainy season.

While sun-drenched moments still abound, brief, scattered showers paint the landscapes in richer shades of green, offering a fresh and vibrant aura to Hawaii’s iconic vistas.

The festive mood begins to build, especially with the Waikiki Holiday Parade . Commemorating Pearl Harbor survivors and veterans, the parade is a colorful spectacle of music, floats, and Hawaiian culture that lights up Honolulu’s streets.

And as Thanksgiving rolls in, Hawaii adds its island flair to traditional celebrations. Imagine feasting on roasted turkey with a side of fresh pineapple and coconut pie, all with the soothing sounds of the ocean nearby!

For those eyeing holiday deals, Black Friday in Hawaii doesn’t disappoint.

From bustling malls in Honolulu to local boutiques, shoppers can find both global brands and unique island gifts, making November a blend of nature, festivities, and retail delights.

December in Hawaii: Festive Lights and Island Nights

December brings a refreshing coolness to Hawaii, with temperatures dipping just enough to remind visitors of the winter season, albeit with a tropical touch.

The occasional rain showers further enhance the Hawaiian islands’ lush beauty, setting the stage for a magical end-of-year escape.

Honolulu City Lights is a star attraction, turning the city into a radiant wonderland. Giant Yuletide figures, shimmering trees, and festive decorations line the streets, offering a captivating contrast to the palm-fringed horizons.

Christmas in Hawaii is a harmonious blend of traditional festivities and island customs. Think Santa arriving on a canoe or Christmas trees adorned with seashells!

As the month draws to a close, the New Year’s Eve celebrations kick into high gear.

Spectacular firework displays light up the night sky, luaus come alive with dancing and music, and the Aloha spirit ushers in a new year with hope, warmth, and joy.

Handy Hawaii Travel Tips: Be Ready for Paradise

Hawaii is a dream destination for many! To ensure you get the best deals and choices, book your flights and places to stay well in advance. You’ll save some cash and skip the last-minute stress.

Island Hopping

Why stick to just one island when Hawaii has so many treasures? Consider hopping between islands to experience a mix of adventures, from fiery volcanoes to tranquil beaches. Each island has its own unique vibe.

Hawaii’s weather can change with the season. If you’re visiting Hawaii in the summer, pack light clothes, swimsuits, and sunscreen. For winter, throw in a light jacket for cooler nights.

Always keep a rain poncho or umbrella handy—sudden showers can surprise you!

Best Time to Travel to Hawaii FAQs

What is the cheapest month to go to hawaii.

The cheapest months to visit Hawaii are typically during the off-season: mid-April to early June and September to mid-December. And Oahu is usually the cheapest Hawaiian island to visit .

However, it’s essential to consider factors like airfare sales, special hotel promotions, and other factors that could affect prices. Always keep an eye out for deals, as they can pop up anytime!

What is the rainy season in Hawaii?

Hawaii’s rainy season typically runs from November through March, although the Hawaiian islands can experience rain at any time of the year.

What is the best island to visit in Hawaii for the first time?

Oahu is often recommended for first-time visitors. It offers a mix of natural beauty, beaches, and historical sites. Honolulu, the state capital, is on Oahu and provides a blend of urban and island experiences, including Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor , and the North Shore.

When is the peak tourist season in Hawaii?

The peak tourist seasons in Hawaii are during the winter holidays (mid-December to early January) and summer (June to August), when families vacation while school is out.

What month is off-season in Hawaii?

The off-season in Hawaii, when tourism tends to be lower and you might find better deals, is generally from mid-April to early June and from September to mid-December.

When is the best time for whale watching in Hawaii?

The prime time for whale watching is from December to April when humpback whales migrate to Hawaii’s warm waters.

Are flights and accommodations cheaper during certain months?

Yes, the shoulder seasons, which are the periods between peak and off-peak seasons (typically April to early June and September to mid-December), often offer better deals on flights and accommodations.

When are the biggest cultural festivals in Hawaii?

Festivals like the Merrie Monarch Festival take place in April, while the Aloha Festivals are celebrated in September.

Is it a good idea to island-hop, and when’s the best time?

Island hopping lets you experience the unique character of each island. The best time depends on your preferences, but the shoulder seasons offer a good balance of weather and affordability.

How should I pack for Hawaii?

Always pack beach essentials. For summer, light clothing suffices. If you’re visiting in the cooler months or planning to explore higher elevations, bring some warm layers. Don’t forget rain gear, as showers can be spontaneous.

When is hurricane season in Hawaii?

While hurricanes are rare, Hawaii’s hurricane season is from June to November. It’s always a good idea to check forecasts and have travel insurance .

Book a Hawaii Photo Shoot

Whenever we travel to Hawaii, we almost always book a photo shoot with Flytographer. They are super easy, affordable, AND it guarantees that I’ll have more than just selfies. You can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code HAWAIITRAVEL.

Best Time of Year to Travel to Hawaii Wrap Up

So, when’s the best time to visit Hawaii? Well, every month has something cool to offer! If you love sun and beach fun, summer’s perfect.

If festivals are your thing, spring and fall have some great events. And if you enjoy watching whales and cooler days, winter’s your season.

Remember, Hawaii is special all year long. It’s always filled with the friendly “Aloha” feeling. It’s a good idea to think ahead about what you want to do and see. That way, you can pick the best month for your trip.

No matter when you choose to visit, get ready for awesome adventures, from rainy days to sunny beaches. Hawaii is always ready to make your trip special, any time of the year.

So, when are you packing your bags?

Looking for more Hawaii travel resources? Check out my top planning tips for Oahu , Maui , Kauai , and the Big Island !

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The Ultimate Hawaii Bucket List: 200 Epic Things to do in Hawaii

last Updated: February 10, 2023 big island hawaii kauai maui oahu

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

Planning a trip and looking for the best things to do in Hawaii?! From waterfall hikes and swimming with sea turtles to indulging in hula pie and snacking on tropical fruit, here’s 200 things to add to your Hawaii bucket list! Yes, I said TWO HUNDRED!

Hawaii is mysteriously captivating, gorgeously lush, and all around our favorite place in the entire world. Not to sound like a total cliche, but the islands are just plain magical. There’s impressive underwater sea life, stunning green peaks, funky surf towns, shave ice/hula pie/fresh fish, near perfect weather, and turquoise water so clear it’s unimaginable. It’s so lush and so arid, so captivating and so laid-back, and so sweet and so refreshing.

Pure paradise. And we can’t get enough.

Ever since moving to California, we’ve become obsessed with Hawaii. Obsessed and then some. We make the trip across the Pacific at least once a year, and start planning our next visit while sipping mai tais in the islands themselves!  I’ve even written an epic Hawaii DIY itinerary to ensure a great trip!

My husband’s even ran marathons in Hawaii! Oahu, Maui, and Kauai – all 26.2 miles done! He’s planning on completing his last Hawaiian marathon next year on the Big Island. Do I run? Nope – I just bring malasadas to him at the end of the race.

Hence the reason for this epic Hawaii bucket list – all the things I’ve done and wanna do neatly compiled into a post and tied with a bow. I promise you’ll never be left bored on the islands with this giant list of over 200 things to do in Hawaii. 

So pack up your swim and snorkel gear, start looking for flights to the islands, and use this massive Hawaii bucket list to find the ultimate paradise.

I’ve also got other information on Hawaii which you might find helpful!

• Island Hopping in Hawaii: A 10 Day DIY Itinerary
• 5 Days in Maui: The Ultimate Itinerary
• My Favorite Stops on the Road to Hana (Maui)
• Soaring above Waterfalls in Maui via Helicopter
• 3 Perfect Days in Kauai
• Helicopter Tour above the Na Pali Coast (Kauai)
• All the Best Eats in Oahu

General Things to Do in Hawaii (Obvious Hawaii Bucket List Items)

1. Go snorkeling with sea turtles ; Hawaii’s got a lot of them swimming below the surface. My favorite spot is Turtle Town in Maui . You can also see green turtles resting on the sand of so many beaches (specifics below).

2. Watch the dancers perform at a luau and learn to hula dance. Many also dance with fire sticks and knives (not something to try at home!)

3. See the islands from above by taking a helicopter ride ! There’s sandy beaches and reefs to admire, lava to scream about, and waterfalls to glide past! A helicopter ride in Kauai ’s the most impressive, in my opinion. 

4. Try all the Hawaiian specialities , including loco moco, shave ice, ahi poke, acai, spam musubi, poi donuts, kalua pig, and macadamia nuts! I love POG juice, too (a mixture of passionfruit, orange, and guava).

5. If you’re visiting in winter, be sure to add whale watching to your Hawaii bucket list! There are plenty of organized boat tours, but you can see whales off the coast yourself!

6. Watch the sunset with a glass of champagne (or mai tai!) on a catamaran cruise. Because what’s better than watching the sun dip below the horizon with a glass of bubbly in hand?

7. Eat all the fresh fruit you can possibly find , because Hawaii’s got some of the freshest fruit in the world. Try pineapple, papaya, starfruit, dragonfruit, rambutan, mango, coconut, lilikoi, and longans. Grab some from one of the many honor-system road-side fruit stands dotted around the islands.

8. Take a surfing lesson – There’s no better place in the world, so just go for it!

9. Get lei’d ; sure, it could feel a tad cheesy, but nothing will get you into the aloha spirit faster than by wearing a fresh flower lei (or crown)!

Maui: The Valley Isle

We’re all kinds of obsessed with Maui, and we’ve been more times than I can remember. Highlights include watching the sunrise at Haleakala , fresh fish at Mama’s, and the thrilling Road to Hana . Oh, and of course our favorite white chocolate macadamia nut pancakes of all time are here.

→ READ NEXT: The Perfect 5 Day Maui Itinerary

10. Bundle up at the crack of dawn to watch sunrise above the clouds at the observatory of the Haleakala Crater . You can even cruise down all 27 downhill miles of the volcano if that’s your thing. One of the #1 things to do in Hawaii. | Kula ✓

11. Go on a sunset catamaran dinner cruise with your sweetie (bonus – champagne’s usually included) 

12. Indulge in a shave ice from local-favorite Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice . Make sure to get some sweet cream (condensed milk) on top. | Lahaina ✓

13. Swim with Green Hawaiian sea turtles in the turquoise waters of Napili Bay. Stay for sunset! | Kapalua ✓

14. See the Nakalele Blowhole erupt – but don’t get too close! | Wailuku ✓

15. Check out the rocky point of Makaluapuna Point , with crashing waves and a short hiking trail | Kapalua

16. Watch the dancers from two popular Hawaiian luaus: The Feast at Lele (our pick), and/or The Old Lahaina Luau (buffet style) | Lahaina ✓

17. Take a day trip to Lanai , a tranquil island with remote beaches and trails | most tours leave from Lahaina and Kaanapali ✓

18. Check out the lava fields at Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve | Wailea

19. Grab breakfast at the open-aired Gazebo Restaurant (share the white chocolate macadamia nut pancakes and fried rice) | Kapalua ✓

20. Get your snorkel on at Black Rock and pick out all the colorful tropical fish you see. If you’re brave enough, join the cliff divers too! | Kaanapali ✓

21. Sip some dessert wines at MauiWine in the Upcountry, the only winery in Maui. There’s also a private waterfall tour at nearby Ulupalakua Ranch if you’re not too tipsy! | Kula

22. Sit underneath the massive banyan tree , with it’s 16 separate trunks and over 60 feet high. It’s legendary, and about 150 years old. ✓ | Lahaina

23. Get drive through coffee at Akamai Coffee . Try the honey cinny coconut milk iced latte. | Kahului  ✓

24. Taste some coconut candy and BBQ ribs from Nahiku Marketplace . Sip a fresh coconut here too. | Hana ✓

25. Pick out some fresh fruit and a tropical fruit smoothie at Olowalu Juice Stand | Olowalu ✓

26. Order Hula Pie and fish tacos at Duke’s Beach House (go on an empty stomach) | Lahaina ✓

27. Walk along the scenic Kapalua Coastal Trail , full of volcanic rock, golf course views, and the ocean | Kapalua

28. Explore Honolua Bay , the tide-less swimming hole perfect for snorkeling around. If you’re up for some hiking, add Honolua Bay Trail to your Hawaii bucket list – there’s great views of the bay from above. | Kapalua ✓

29. Get your shopping on at Whalers Village ; there’s lots of small boutiques and is said to be Maui’s premier ocean front shopping destination | Kaanapali ✓

30. Go on a day trip to Molokini Crater and snorkel inside of a sunken Hawaiian volcano (most tours go to Turtle Town as well!) ✓

31. Buy a colorful bikini at Pakaloha , my favorite swimsuit shop on the islands | Lahaina and Paia ✓

32. Explore the super laid-back surfer hippie town of Paia | Paia ✓ 

33. Make the steep, challenging hike at the Waihee Ridge Trail for picturesque views of mountains, gorges, and forests | Wailuku

34. Find a humuhumunukunukuapuaa triggerfish (the state fish of Hawaii) and try saying it correctly! ✓

35. Drive on the “forbidden” backcountry southern roads of Maui, typically done after driving the Road the Hana ✓

36. Soar above Maui via helicopter and see waterfalls, rainforests, sea cliffs, and all the turquoise water you can imagine | departs from Kahului ✓

37. Check out Iao Valley State Park , a lush, sacred valley in inland West Maui. Don’t miss the main attraction – the Iao needle. Bring a rain jacket – it’s the second wettest place in Hawaii. | Wailuku ✓

38. Take a photo with the surfboard fence at Aloha Surf Hostel on Baldwin Ave, one of the best hostels in Hawaii | Paia ✓

39. Smell the lavender at Alli Kula Lavendar Farm in the Upcountry region. There’s 45 varieties! | Kula ✓

40. Relax with green sea turtles on the beach at Ho’okipa . Look close – they look like rocks! | Paia ✓

41. Get the best handcrafted lemonade of your life at Wow Wow Lemonade – there’s tons of flavors to choose from, plus acai smoothie bowls! | Kihei ✓

42. Enjoy a noteworthy dinner at the ever-so-delicious Mama’s Fish House (note you’ll need to make a reservation way in advance). Come early for tiki sunset drinks. One of the most delicious things to do in Hawaii. | Paia ✓

43. Stop for fresh banana bread from Aunty Sandy’s on the Road to Hana (buy a second loaf for later snacking!) | Haiku ✓

44. Indulge in drool-worthy chocolate mac-nut pie at Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop | Olowalu ✓

45. Sip an organic pineapple smoothie from the Huelo Lookout roadside shack and admire the views | Haiku ✓

46. Take a short walk through beautiful foliage to Twin Falls (and get the sugar cane juice, it’s delicious) | Haiku ✓

47. Have breakfast at the photo-worthy Belle Surf Cafe . It’s super cute and very instagrammable. Plus, the cold brew is great. | Lahaina ✓

48. See the famous Keopuka “Jurassic Park rock” at the Garden of Eden Arboretum . Walk around the area to see rainbow Eucalyptus afterwards. | Haiku ✓

49. Take a guided astronomical tour of Maui’s night skies and stargaze with powerful telescopes (hosted by Hyatt Regency Maui) | Lahaina

50. Try the catch of the day at South Maui Fish Company , a popular and rustic food cart. | Kihei

51. Hike through the bamboo forest of the Pipiwai Stream Trail (located in Haleakala National Park) for Waimoku Falls | Hana ✓

52. Take a scenic drive on the lesser-known Kahekili Highway, the narrow, cliff-hugging one-lane road without guardrails

53. See and swim in the 7 Sacred Pools of the Ohe’o Gulch, connected by waterfalls and hidden in the dense forest | Hana

54. Drive the windy roads of the Road to Hana , making all the best stops along the way | Northeast Maui ✓

55. Make a short pit stop on the Keane Peninsula for views of Hana’s rocky coast | Haiku ✓

56. Admire the Upper Waikani 3 Bears waterfalls from the side of the road. You can even venture down if you wanna take a quick dip! | Haiku ✓

57. Spend the morning at Waianapanapa State Park , Hawaii’s most famous black (lava) sand beach. There’s large sea caves, volcanic tubes, a coastal hiking trail, and even a blowhole. | Hana ✓

58. Taste test local roasts and pick up fresh beans at Kaanapali Coffee Farms . You can also buy some at MauiGrown Coffee instead. | Kaanapali

59. Check out Wailua Falls , a 113-foot waterfall along the Road to Hana | Hana ✓

60. Stop for a quick photo of the Halfway to Hana sign | Haiku ✓

61. Devour super-fresh malasadas (made right in front of your eyes) at Maikai Lana Malasadas (a local Maui secret). Get a bunch of flavors, but stock up on the lilikoi-filled ones | Lahaina ✓

62. Tour a pineapple farm and learn about the growing process with Maui Pineapple Tours (plus lots of taste tests!) | Makawao/Haliimaile

63. Nosh on garlic shrimp from the Geste Shrimp food truck. Cash only. | Kahului ✓

Oahu: The Gathering Place

Yes – Waikiki and the general Honolulu area are awesome, but don’t spend all your time here! Make sure to get out to Lanikai Beach (our favorite), feast on some malasadas from Leonard’s, and spend some time on the funky North Shore.

→ READ NEXT: Where to Eat in Oahu (all the best spots)

64. Watch the surfers at Waimea Bay during the winter months (best from December through February) | Pupukea

65. Try your hand at surfing in Waikiki . It’s the most iconic thing to do in Hawaii – take a lesson if it’s your first time. | Waikiki

66. Watch the sunset from Tantalus Lookout at Puu Ualakaa State Park – it’s quite the panoramic show and only about 15 minutes from Waikiki | Manoa ✓

67. Hike the illegal Stairway to Heaven for spectacular sunrise views during the dry season. Worried about the cops – climb the 10 miles up the legal way (Moanalua) | Kaneohe

68. See a great view of Honolulu from the summit of Diamond Head Crater , an extinct volcano. Add it to your Hawaii bucket list – it’s the most popular hike on Oahu. | Honolulu ✓

69. Shimmy into the deep cobalt water and see thrilling 12+ feet sharks close up in their natural habitat while cage-diving with galapagos and hammerhead sharks

70. Snorkel at Hanauma Bay , a protected bay with hundreds of marine species | Honolulu ✓

71. Say hello to the King Kamehameha statue ; if you’ve ever watched Hawaii 5-0, you’ll know the building! | Honolulu ✓

72. Get some piping hot malasadas from Leonard’s Bakery , a Portuguese donut without the hole in the middle | Waikiki ✓ 

73. Indulge in Haupia Pie at Ted’s Bakery , a traditional coconut pudding pie. | Haleiwa

74. Get your hike on at Ko’olau Range , there’s tons of scenery here | Waikane

75. Have drinks and appetizers at the Hideout at the Laylow – it’s super boutique-y and oh so cute. The outdoor patio is fantastic. | Honolulu ✓

76. Cool off with some soft-serve pineapple dole whip at the Dole Plantation . There’s also a huge hedge maze to get lost in. | Wahiawa ✓

77. Grab some mochi ice cream bites from Bubbies Handmade Ice Cream | Honolulu

78. Pick up a few bags of macadamia nuts from Tropical Farms Macadamia Nuts (plus great coffees!) | Kaneohe

79. Take the scenic rainforest hike to Manoa Falls , where scenes from Jurassic Park and Lost have been filmed! | Honolulu

80. Pay your respects at Pearl Harbor National Memorial . Make sure to check out the USS Arizona as well. | Honolulu ✓

81. Try some fresh pineapple (and a smoothie and acai bowl) at Hawaiian Crown . Buy some dried pineapple for later. | Honolulu ✓

82. Take a photo with the Duke Paoa Kahanamoku Statue, and give him a lei! | Waikiki ✓

83. Walk the paved Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail for an easy stroll with some lovely lighthouse views | Waimanalo

84. Hike the Lanikai Pillbox Hike and then relax at Lanikai Beach afterwards (there’s sometimes sea turtles over here!) | Kailua ✓

85. Check out Iolani Palace , the former home of Hawaii’s final monarchs. | Honolulu

86. Get fantastic views after 25 minutes on the beautiful but illegal Crouching Lion Hike | Kaawa

87. Look up at the bamboo and pine trees on the Judd Trail on this canopy hike in the deep jungle | Honolulu

88. Cool off with an acai bowl from Lanikai Juice , Jewel or Juice , and/or Haleiwa Bowls | various locations ✓

89. Feel like you’re eating in Jurassic Park at Haleiwa Joe’s at Haiku Garden , a favorite dinner spot of many. Don’t miss a quick walk around the gardens before dinner. | Kaneohe

90. Zipline at Kualoa Ranch , which looks like Jurassic Park territory! You can also ride ATVs and/or traverse the area by horseback here! | Kaneohe 

91. Feast on a plate lunch from Rainbow Drive-In (the BBQ pork and rice is my favorite) | Honolulu ✓

92. Test your fears and jump out of a plane with Pacific Skydiving Honolulu | Waialua ✓

93. Swim with dolphins in the wild . One of the most magical things to do in Hawaii by far.

94. Sip cocktails (preferable mai tais!) on a sunset catamaran cruise from Waikiki | Waikiki

95. Climb up the 1,048 stairs on Koko Crater Railway Trail (an abandoned railroad track) and be rewarded with panoramic views | Honolulu

96. Satisfy your sweet tooth with soft-serve made from locally grown bananas at Banan | multiple locations ✓

97. Walk around Waimea Valley , home to a 45-foot waterfall, a world-class botanical garden, and the center of ancient Hawaiian history | Haleiwa

98. Hang out at Laniakea Beach , usually full of turtles! But don’t get too close as this is their land! | North Shore

99. Watch surfers at BanzaiPipeline (Ehukai Beach) , home of the world’s deadliest wave. Not safe unless you’re extremely experienced. | Haleiwa

100. Brunch it up at Arvo with avocado toast – it also shares the space with a cute boutique and plant store. Walk around to see the street art in the area nearby. | Honolulu ✓

101. Explore a 48-passenger submarine on the Atlantis Submarine Tour . You can even see turtles, Hawaiian fish, and sunken ships through the portal windows. | Waikiki

102. Lay by the pool at The Royal Hawaiian , and make sure to get a pineapple scone from their cute outdoor bakery. In the mood for a delicious mai tai? Sit out back by the ocean; it’s one of the most relaxing things to do in Hawaii after a surf session or two! | Waikiki ✓ 

103. Walk amongst the 400 acres of tropical plants at Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden | Kaneohe

104. Feast on some fresh poke bowls at Ono Seafood | Honolulu ✓

105. Head to Makapu’u Lookout and admire the mountains, turquoise waters, lighthouse, and even sometimes whales (in season)! Relax at Makapu’u Beach afterwards | Waimanalo

106. Try garlic shrimp at Giovannis Shrimp Truck on the North Shore, than wander around Haleiwa Town | Haleiwa ✓

107. Watch the dancers perform at the Polynesian Cultural Center , one of the best cultural attractions in Hawaii | Laie 

108. Watch ocean water shoot out 30 feet into the air at Halona Blowhole , all from a lava tube | Honolulu

109. Lounge on Waikiki Beach – it’s super iconic to the state and one of the best things to add to your Hawaii bucket list. There’s always something fun going on here. | Waikiki ✓

110. Sip instagrammable coffee at Olive & Oliver within the Surfjack Hotel | Honolulu

111. Try the coco cream puffs from Liliha Bakery and poi donuts from Kam Bakery | Honolulu ✓

112. Get the best shave ice on Oahu at Waiola Shave Ice, Island Vintage or Matsumoto’s | Honolulu / various locations ✓

113. Check out Lanai Lookout , a popular lookout point with views of neighboring islands | Honolulu

114. Walk around the rocky coastal area of Shark’s Cove , and look for little critters in the tidal pools | Pupukea

Kauai: The Garden Isle

Kauai is so green, so lush, and so wild – it feels like you’ve literally stepped into Jurassic Park. While all of these items are worthy of this Hawaii bucket list, don’t miss exploring the stunning peaks of the Na Pali coast as much as you possibly can (by foot, land, and sea), swimming in the natural tide pool of Queens Bath, and trying a Puka Dog!

→ READ NEXT: 3 Perfect Days in Kauai (you’ll never wanna leave)

115. Soar above the Na Pali coast in a helicopter with Jurassic Park music in your ears. Extra brave? Make it a doors off ride. Splurge and add a stop at the waterfall – it’s worth it! ✓

116. Hang out at Wai’ale’ale , the unofficial wettest place on Earth. Make sure to bring a rain jacket! | Wailua Homesteads ✓

117. Stand on line for some local Mexican takeout at Da Crack (it’s a local secret) | Poipu ✓

118. Make a quick stop at the Hanalei Valley Lookout , and look out for small waterfalls dripping down the mountains as you drive there. | Princeville

119. Pig out at Java Kai , and be sure to take photos with the instagrammable pineapple mural nearby | Kappa ✓

120. Eat dessert for breakfast with a pakala acai bowl from Little Fish Coffee | Poipu ✓

121. Drive through the magical Tree Tunnel on Hwy 520 ; it’s full of lush Eucalyptus trees | Koloa

122. Drink mai tais with a view on the back patio of The Beach House before sitting down to a dinner of fresh fish. One of our favorite things to do in Hawaii. | Koloa ✓

123. Try the avocado croquettes and purple sweet potato puree from Lanai | Poipu ✓

124. Pull over on the side of the road at Wailua Falls to check out the double 173-foot waterfalls. Hit up nearby Opaeka’a Falls next! | Wailua ✓

125. Shop at the boutique stores in Kapaa Town in eastern Kauai | Kapaa ✓

126. Hike over lava rocks and down a rooted path to the natural tidal pools of Queens Bath , then get your float on | Princeville ✓

127. Go kayaking or stand-up paddling at Hanalei Bay (or just hang out); it’s kinda like a giant swimming pool in summer | Hanalei ✓

128. Put on your fins and snorkel gear and explore Tunnels Beach , known for its huge off-shore reef with tons of turtles! | Wainiha

129. Join a tour and go snorkeling along the Na Pali Coast – you’ll be swimming in crystal clear water besides schools of vibrant tropical fish! Look out for dolphins on the way there. One for the Hawaii bucket list for sure! | ✓ 

130. Pick up some fresh produce from the Hanalei Farmers Market on a Saturday. Try some dragon fruit, apple bananas, longans, and rambutans. | Hanalei

131. Go for a paddle and see the regal green peaks of the Na Pali Coast via kayak (although only for the true adventurer and not on my Hawaii bucket TBH) 

132. Treat yourself to some sunset drinks at the swanky Princeville Resort overlooking the green mountains and Hanalei Bay | Princeville ✓

133. Eat teriyaki pineapple fried rice out of an actual pineapple at Lava Lava Beach Club | Kapa’a

134. Order too much at the Koloa Fish Market , opting for poke and bread pudding | Koloa

135. Spot a precious Hawaiian monk seal at Mahu-ulepu Beach ; be sure to admire them from a distance | Koloa

136. Marvel at Waimea Canyon State Park , dubbed the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. Don’t miss some fresh pineapple and coconut candy here. | Waimea ✓

137. Sip a glass of champagne on a sunset dinner cruise sailing past the famous Na Pali coast | Na Pali Coast Wilderness Park

138. Photograph the impressive Hanalei Bridge ; there’s even mountain backdrops | Hanalei

139. Join a kayaking tour of Wailua River to Secret Falls ; you’ll be hiking and walking through mud as well so plan accordingly! | Kapa’a

140. Stop by the red soil and other multi-colored layers on your drive up to Waimea Canyon, there’s even a mini waterfall! | Waimea ✓

141. Soar over trees and valleys while ziplining on the longest zipline course with Koloa Zipline | Koloa

142. Go off-roading on a muddy ATV quad tour to a waterfall with Kipa Ranch Adventures | Lihue

143. Movie buff? Cruise around the different movie locations filmed here in Kauai

144. Go bird watching (or just admire the views) from Kilauea Lighthouse and Wildlife Refuge – it’s actually the northernmost point of Kauai! | Kilauea ✓

145. Watch Spouting Horn erupt a flume of seawater as high as 50 feet. Listen to the hissing noise it makes! | Poipu

146. Sample all the 30 coffee varieties at Kauai Coffee Company Estate , and even go on a free guided tour! | Kalaheo

147. Test your hand at mountain tubing and learn about the old sugar plantation with Kauai Backcountry Adventures | Lihue

148. Secure a parking pass and permit for the strenuous 22-mile Kalalau Trail to get what are possibly the best views of Kauai (every serious hiker should add this to their Hawaii bucket list). Or just hike the 2 miles in until you reach Hanakapi’ai Beach. One of the most adventurous things to do in Hawaii, so prepare wisely! | Wainiha

149. Hole up by the pool for the day at The Grand Hyatt , and make sure to say hello to the black swans out front. It’s worth the high price tag for a night! | Koloa ✓

150. Feast your eyes on mountain and ocean views from Ko’ke State Park if the weathers right | Hanapepe

151. Share a few flavors of shave ice from Wishing Well and Jo Jo’s Shave Ice | Hanalei ✓

152. Wander around historic Old Koloa Town , while reading the plaques of this former plantation village | Koloa

153. Try a Puka Dog , a Hawaiian style hot dog and one of Anthony Bourdain’s favorite eats in Kauai! | Koloa

Hawai’i: The Big Island

To be completely transparent, we haven’t made it to The Big Island just yet (not really sure how that happened). Hence a reason for this Hawaii bucket list – to gather up all the things to do in Hawaii that we haven’t done! I can’t wait to see lava spitting from volcanoes, hanging out on black sand beaches, and just chilling in Hilo Town.

154. Take a walk on the newest beach in the state at Pohoiki Black Sand Beach , formed by the 2018 Kilauea eruption. Be careful though, the black sand is really super sharp fragments of volcanic basalt. | Pahoa

155. Walk along the black sand beach of Punalu’u , and don’t forget to look out for green sea turtles! | Pahala

156. Hike the 2.5 miles to Papakolea Beach , the only green sanded beach in the USA, and one of 4 in the world. You can hitch a ride from a local if you don’t feel like walking. | Naalehu

157. Have a romantic farm-to-table meal at Brown’s Beach House Restaurant , located in the Hotel Fairmont Orchid | Waikoloa Village

158. Avoid the crowds at Mahai’ula Beach , great for paddle boarding and snorkeling with turtles | Kukio

159. Spot live lava flows, lava tubes, and glowing craters at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park . Take the ranger guided 1.6 mile hike for lots of information, or go hiking on your own. Definitely one of the most iconic things to do in Hawaii.

160. Explore the ancient fish ponds and petroglyphs in the historic Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park , a beachside wildlife refuge | Kailua-Kona

161. Hike the unique terrain of Hualalai Volcano , rising 8,271 feet above sea level | North Kona

162. Go swimming at Richardson Ocean Park , one of the only beaches in Hilo. And plus, there’s black sand with specks of green! | Hilo

163. Explore the tallest waterfall on the island at Waipio Valley , or head to Waipio Valley Lookout if you don’t feel like hiking | 

164. Night dive (or snorkel!) with manta rays at Manta Village. An experience for your Hawaii bucket list! | South of Kona

165. Explore the former summer house of Hawaiian royalty at Hulihe’e Palace , now a historic house museum with Victorian artifacts | Kailua-Kona

166. Have breakfast at Vibe Cafe , a trendy, vegan spot inspiring inclusive lifestyles with creative flavors | Hilo

167. Snorkel at Kealakekua Bay , one of the Big Island’s best snorkel spots. This is where Captain Cook first landed when he came to Hawaii in the 1700’s! | South Kona

168. Star gaze atop Mauna Kea , a dormant volcano and Hawaii’s highest peak at 14,00 feet. | Mauna Kea 

169. Taste some sweets at Two Ladies Kitchen , a Japanese confectionary shop. Try some fruity flavored mochi (pear, strawberry, grape, lilikoi, etc), red bean, and taiyaki | Hilo

170. Spot a rainbow at Rainbow Falls , super easy to see from the viewing platform. Don’t miss the huge banyan tree! | Hilo

171. Stand on the remote and windswept southernmost point of the US at Ka Lae (South Point) | Naalehu

172. Walk the tropical rainforest path to the scenic falls at Akaka Falls State Park , only a half mile loop | Honomu

173. Sip some cocktails at trendy Pineapples Restaurant during happy hour; there’s live music and retractable walls | Hilo

174. Visit the walled city of Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historic Park , where you can find authentic tiki statues and reconstructed villages | Honaunau

175. Smell over 1,800 species of tropical plants at Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden and take a walk on the boardwalk | Papaikou

176. Take a helicopter tour over an active volcano in Volcano National Park, one of the only places in the world you can get this close! 

177. Cozy up with traditional Japanese comfort food at Teshima’s Restaurant , simple and delicious | Kealakekua 

178. Spend the day hanging out at Kapuna Beach , then hop on over to Mauna Kea Beach | Waimea

179. Order off the inventive menu at ULU Ocean Grill , located in the luxurious Four Seasons. It’s been on the list of the 100 Most Romantic Restaurants in America! | Kailua-Kona

180. Feel like you’re on Mars while off-roading the R-1 Road of Mauna Kea ; you’ll encounter red lava landscapes, a silversword grove, and desert washes.

181. Visit the Seahorse Farm to help the facility with their conservation efforts and of course see lots of species of seahorses | Kona

182. Have dinner at sunset at The Rim at Volcano House – the only restaurant you can see the glow of the volcanic caldera! | Hilo

183. Purchase coffee and learn about the process at a coffee plantation | Kona

184. Hike through a fern valley and Thurston lava tube at Volcano National Park – you’ll feel like you’re in Jurassic Park and on a different planet!

185. Say hello to the local vendors at the Hilo Farmers Market , and pick up some fresh produce (try starfruit, coconuts, and honey). Only open on Wednesdays and Saturdays. | Hilo

186. Chow down on some Hawaiian favorites at 808 Grindz Cafe – everything on the menu is $8.08! | Kailua-Kona

187. Tour the Hamakua Chocolate Farm , complete with chocolate demos and chocolate tastings… mmm | Papaikou

188. Climb up the world’s tallest undersea mountain at Mauna Kea (yes, taller than Everest!) | Mauna Kea

189. Choose from the catch of the day at Moon and Turtle – the menu changes every day! | Hilo

190. Have dinner with lava views at the Volcano House from the floor to ceiling windows | Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Lanai: The Pineapple Isle

Most people never make it to Lanai, but how could I not include it on this Hawaii bucket list?! If you’ve been to Hawaii a bunch of times and haven’t ventured over to Lanai, make it your mission! And there’s no excuses – you can easily get from Maui to Lanai via a 90-minute public ferry! There’s zero traffic lights here, otherworldly landscapes, and even a feral cat sanctuary. If you wanna head to the more secluded spots, you’ll definitely need a 4×4.

191. Take a 4-wheel drive to the secluded Polihua Beach , on the northern tip of the island. Don’t swim here though – there’s strong rip currents. | North Lanai

192. Watch spinner dolphins playing offshore at Hulopoe Beach . It’s also great for snorkeling, swimming, and tide pooling. | South Lanai

193. Drive through the desolate and otherworldly lunar landscape of Keahiakawelo (Garden of the Gods) via 4×4, with tons of rugged boulders, rock towers, and red sand formed via volcanoes. No cell service over here, so be careful! | West Lanai

194. Take a photo at Pu’u Pehe (Sweetheart Rock) , an iconic rock formation and natural wonder of Lanai.  | South Lanai

195. Play and volunteer at the Lanai Cat Sanctuary , a rescue and care center for abandoned feral cats. FYI – not on my Hawaii bucket list since I’m terrified of cats (true story), but wanted to share in case there’s any cat lovers out there! | Lanai City

196. See the abandoned WWII ship floating in the Pacific from the shores of Shipwreck Beach . It’s also a great place to snorkel! | North Lanai

197. Hit balls on the beautiful grounds of the Manele Golf Course , with ocean views at many holes | South Lanai

198. Check out the remains of historic Kaunolu Fishing Village , a favorite fishing spot of King Kamehameha in the 1790s  | South Lanai

199. Sip a mai tai at the pool bar at 5-star The Four Seasons Lanai , or plan your visit for Sunday brunch! | South Lanai

200. Learn about the traditional culture of Lanai at the Lanai Culture & Heritage Center (and better yet, it’s all free!) | Lanai City

Molokai: The Friendly Isle

Like Lanai, Molokai isn’t the most well-known spot in Hawaii. It’s a different way of life around here – there’s no huge resorts, luaus, or Michelin-starred restaurants. And it’s had quite the troubling past with the leper colony of Kalaupapa in the 1860’s where over 8,000 infected people were sent.

201. Make the steep hike to Kalaupapa National Historical Park , the historic and scenic place of preserved leper colonies. Super interesting! Read “Moloka’i” by Alan Brennet for a better understanding of the time (psst – fiction but based roughly on facts). If you’re a history buff, make sure to add this to your Hawaii bucket list. | Kalaupapa

202. Check out Olo’upena Falls , a massive waterfall that can be seen from the ocean or air. It’s said to be the 4th highest in the world! If you explore the North Shore sea cliffs by boat you’ll see them! | Forest Reserve

203. Take a cultural hike in the sacred and super lush Halawa Valley with waterfall views and foliage-covered cliffs | Forest Reserve

204. Go on a nature tour of Kamakou , a nearly 5,000 foot volcano with ingenious plants | Forest Reserve

205. Go off-roading (or hike) the secluded nature preserve of the Molokai Forest Reserve . If the grounds muddy, don’t even attempt to bring your vehicle though! | Kaunakakai

206. Hang out at Papohaku Beach , one of the largest beaches in the Hawaiian archipelago! | Maunaloa

Hope this helps you plan an epic trip to the islands! What’s still on your Hawaii bucket list and what are some of your favorite things to do in Hawaii?!

Psst: If you’re planning a trip to cross things off your Hawaii bucket list, you might like these too:

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The Best Hikes in Hawaii Through Rain Forests, Volcanoes, and Secret Beaches

The 15 best hikes in Hawaii for all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned trekkers.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Hawaii has long been considered the perfect vacation destination. Just a five- or six-hour flight from the West Coast, with no passport requirements, the Hawaiian Islands offer an ideal tropical vacation that comes with all the simplicity of domestic travel.

Oahu, Maui, Kauai, Hawaii Island (often called "The Big Island"), Molokai, and Lana'i are the perfect place for a romantic, family, or solo getaway anytime of year. Whether you're tempted by one of the luxurious resorts on Lana'i, the up-and-coming North Shore of Oahu, the volcanoes of Hawaii Island, the laidback vibes of Molokai and Kauai, or the ever-romantic Maui escape, now is the perfect time to book your trip.

And while Hawaii is known for its idyllic beaches , you'll also want to plan your itinerary around the state's exceptional hiking trails. The best hikes in Hawaii provide a glimpse into the natural wilds of the islands , from trails that criss-cross stunning valleys and traverse ridgelines to those that drop into still-steaming crater floors and ancient lava tubes. It doesn't matter if you're looking to escape the heat or want to soak up the sun, there are hikes that meander past lush rainforests and cut through arid, Mars-like landscapes — some Hawaii hikes even offer both.

Once you've booked your trip, refer to this curated list of the best hikes in Hawaii for all skill levels. All you need to do is slather on some sunscreen, pack a bag with plenty of water and snacks, and get motivated. We promise, these hikes are well worth the effort.

Pu'u Pia Trail, Oahu

The Pu'u Pia Trail starts from the Manoa neighborhood of Honolulu, making it an easy and accessible option for a last-minute jaunt. The nearly two-mile, out-and-back trail provides plenty of shade on hot days and beautiful flowers and lush growth throughout. From the top, expect views over Honolulu and out to the sea.

Sliding Sands Trail, Maui

To experience a completely different side of Maui, head to Haleakalā National Park and take on the 13-mile out-and-back Sliding Sands Trail from the Keonehe’ehe’e Trailhead. This moderate-to-difficult hike may start with a descent, but make sure you're aware of the climb that's required to get back out. While the trail's Mars-like landscape doesn't offer much shade, you'll be rewarded with once-in-a-lifetime views of the volcano.

Kaumana Caves Trail, Hawaii Island

For an easy adventure near Hilo, head to Kaumana Caves State Park , where you'll find the extremely short — half-mile round-trip — Kaumana Caves trail . The mini-excursion takes travelers into a lava tube that was created by Mauna Loa in 1881. Just make sure to bring sturdy shoes and a flashlight, as the trail leads visitors down a metal ladder and into a dark lava tube.

Kalalau Trail, Kauai

The Kalalau Trail may be long, clocking in at 11 miles one-way, but it's the only way to access this part of Kauai's rugged Nāpali Coast by land, making it well worth the effort. Note that you must reserve a day use permit ahead of time if you wish to enter Hā’ena State Park , as only the first two miles of the hike from Ke’e Beach to Hanakāpīʻai Beach can be accessed without one. Along the way, you'll traverse five valleys before ending at Kalalau Beach, which, depending on the day, you might have all to yourself. It's worth noting that this route is for experienced hikers, so check trail and weather conditions before heading out. For those interested in overnight stays, a camping permit is required .

Makapu'u Point Lighthouse Trail, Oahu

This easy two-mile round-trip trail is located within the Kaiwi State Scenic Shoreline and provides hikers with amazing views of the island's southeastern coast, including Koko Head and Koko Crater. Along the way, you'll spot the historic Makapu'u Lighthouse and might be able to see the neighboring islands of Lanai and Molokai if the weather is clear.

Kuilau Ridge Trail, Kauai

This easy-to-moderate trail can be found on the eastern side of Kauai and provides that Hawaiian jungle-like feel throughout the course of its 3.6-mile out-and-back journey . Along the way, you'll see a waterfall and gorgeous views toward Mount Waiʻaleʻale.

Waihe'e Ridge Trail, Maui

The Waihe'e Ridge Trail , located in the West Maui Forest Reserve, starts out steep, leading hikers up the spine of Waihe'e Valley. But once you reach the top, the stunning views — especially on a clear day — make the 4.2-mile out-and-back excursion well worth the effort.

Kīlauea Iki Trail, Hawaii Island

Morgan Trimble / Getty Images

If the idea of hiking across a solid lava lake piques your interest, head to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park , where the Kīlauea Iki Trail takes off. The three-mile loop starts on the crater's rim, then drops through the rain forest toward the steaming crater floor. At the bottom, you'll pass the smoking vent on the floor of the crater before heading back up to the rim.

Pipiwai Trail and Waimoku Falls, Maui

If driving the Road to Hana is on your Maui to-do list, start early so you have enough time to integrate this 3.8-mile round-trip hike into your itinerary. Along this moderate trek, you'll pass through a dense bamboo forest and spot several waterfalls before reaching the stunning Waimoku Falls.

Maunawili Trail, Oahu

If you're looking for a challenge, take on the Maunawili Trail from Waimānalo near Kailua. The 8.8-mile point-to-point trail is difficult — and long, for those who decide to do the full thing — but you can easily turn around at any point. Along the way, you'll be treated to stream crossings, views over lush valleys, and plenty of flowers. Note that the portion of this trail that goes to Maunawili Falls is currently closed for nature rehabilitation but is expected to reopen in summer 2023 .

Mauna Kea Summit Hike, Hawaii Island

Corbis Historical / Getty Images

Mauna Kea–Humu`ula Trail , also known as the Mauna Kea Summit Hike, offers visitors a challenging 13.4-mile out-and-back journey to the top of the highest mountain in the Hawaiian Islands, at 13,803 feet tall. Despite its steep 4,986-foot elevation gain, the trail is especially popular among birders and is best visited between the months of March and December. Dress warm, as the summit is known to be the only place in Hawaii with snow, with the wind-chill factor at the top making temperatures already hovering around 32 degrees Fahrenheit feel even colder.

Pu’u Pehe (Sweetheart Rock), Lanai

A popular hike for those day tripping from the neighboring island of Maui or staying at any of Lanai's luxury resorts, the trail to Pu'u Pehe , also called Sweetheart Rock, offers an easy 0.9-mile out-and-back walk to one of the most beautiful views in Hawaii. According to local legend , a Hawaiian warrior fell in love with a beautiful woman named Pehe, hid her in one of the many sea caves along the coastline between Mānele and Hulopoʻe Bay, and dove into the sea from the rock's 80-foot summit upon returning to find she had drowned during a bad storm (his beloved is said to be buried at the top of the steep rock island). Nowadays, it's just a 20-minute hike from the Four Seasons Resort Lanai and a particularly romantic spot at sunset.

Cliff and Canyon Trails in Waimea Canyon State Park, Kauai

Famously nicknamed by Mark Twain as "The Grand Canyon of the Pacific," Waimea Canyon State Park on the island of Kauai is home to many trails that range in intensity. The Waimea Canyon trail starts just past the Pu'u Ka Pele lookout and is a roughly three-hour round-trip moderate hike offering views of the canyon and offshoots to other trails to the top of Waipo'o Falls as well as the beginner-friendly Cliff Trail , which runs along the ridge, showcasing incredible views of the canyon's interior.

Papakōlea Green Sand Beach Hike, Hawaii Island

Due to the presence of olivine, a mineral found in lava left behind by past volcanic eruptions, the sands of Papakōlea Beach, located along the southern tip of Hawaii Island, are surprisingly green in color. You'll find the 5.6-mile out-and-back trail to this popular green-sand beach between mile markers 69 and 70 along Highway 11 at South Point Road. From the parking lot, head south along a paved road, then a dirt path for about two more miles as you work your way toward the ocean. The hike around the eroded cinder cone can be quite steep in places, but just stick to the well-worn trail and after you've taken enough photos, head back the same way.

Koko Head Crater Trail, Oahu

Lovingly referred to as "The Koko Head Stairs" by local residents and visitors alike, the Koko Head Crater Trail along Oahu's southeast coast is exactly that — roughly 1,048 steps, made from former railway tracks, that run up the side of the 1,208-foot-tall rock formation. Though it's only 1.6-miles in length, the trail consists of a steep, uneven, and dusty 885-foot climb that takes most people about 90 minutes to complete. Take your time, go at your own pace, and enjoy views of east Honolulu, Hanauma Bay, and parts of the neighboring island of Molokai on a clear day once you reach the top — you've earned it!

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Discover the best time to go to Hawaii

No matter the time of year, the sun is shining, the water is warm, and the beaches are divine in Hawaii. But of course, there’s more to do than just visit the beach. That’s why you should know the best time to go to Hawaii for a variety of activities. Read on for everything you need to know.

The best time to visit Hawaii

Hawaii is home to beaches, forests, mountains, volcanoes, and a history and culture that sets it apart from any other US state. No matter what type of vacation you’re looking for, you’re likely to find it here. 

Located about 2,000 miles off the coast of the US mainland, Hawaii enjoys a mild climate all year round. With sunshine basically guaranteed, you may be asking: does it really matter when is the best time to go to Hawaii?

Of course it does! While the weather may not change much, there are other factors to consider when thinking about the best time of year to go to Hawaii, such as the rainy season, crowds, preferred activities, special events, and more.

As mentioned, the weather doesn’t change much from season to season. Hawaii really only has two seasons: summer and winter. Summer lasts from May to October, while winter is from November until April. During summer, the temperature ranges from 85°F to 90°F, while in the winter it hovers around the high 70s and low 80s. Hawaii’s rainy season is typically from November until March.

Keep in mind, with Hawaii’s diverse terrain, each island’ experience’s weather is different.

• Big Island: Temperatures range from 75°F and 85°F, with a rainfall of about 30 inches per year. The Big Island is home to the wettest city in the US, Hilo     .
• Oahu: Temperatures are between the mid 60s and mid 80s, with an average rainfall of 20 to 30 inches per year. Most of the popular resort areas see as little as 15 inches.
• Maui: The dry side in the south is home to Kahului and Makena, sees less than 10 inches of rain per year. Higher elevations, especially on the western side, see triple that amount. The average temperatures hover between the low 70s and mid 80s.
• Kauai: The temperatures hover between the low 70s and high 80s. As for rainfall, the coastline sees about 35 inches per year, while the inland portion of the island experiences much more. 

Something else to consider is the elevation of your destination. Higher elevations experience more rainfall, or even snow in the mountains, as well as cooler temperatures. As the air makes its way through the mountainous regions, it’s deflected, redirected, and even accelerated, contributing to the frequency of rainfall and storms on the rest of the island.

Hawaii’s weather is also affected by trade winds: moist, cool winds coming from the high-pressure areas in the northern Pacific. When these winds reach the northeastern sides of the Hawaiian islands, they’re forced upward by the mountains. They then create clouds, which in turn produce rain. This is why the northeastern sides of the islands experience more rainfall. 

So yes, blame the trade winds for most of Hawaii’s rainfall, but they’re also to thank for the lush greenery, as well as being the source of that refreshing breeze on a hot summer’s day. And when the trade winds stop, the weather gets very humid.

On any of the Hawaiian islands, nighttime temperatures can drop into the 50s, so pack a sweater or jacket for cooler evenings.

The best time to visit each island

The best time of year to visit Hawaii depends on which island you want to go to.

Best time to visit Hawaii: Maui

Beast time to travel: April-May, September-November

Maui, Hawaii’s second-largest island, is home to attractions like Haleakala National Park , the Hana Highway, and Kapalua Beach. When you visit during the seasonal transition months, you’ll get to enjoy the beautiful weather without the crowds of tourists that flock here during the summer. 

If you visit during April, you can take part in the biggest event of the year: the Maui Taro Festival . Taro is a plant native to Hawaii that locals often eat for its nutritional and medicinal properties. May sees plenty of outdoor parties and live music performances. Those visiting in October can enjoy the annual Maui Fair , which features parades, rides, games, and a chili cook-off.

Best time of year to travel to Hawaii: Oahu

Beast time to travel: April-May, September-October

Oahu is the home of some of the most famous attractions in Hawaii. The state capital of Honolulu is here, and you’ll also be able to explore Waikiki Beach and Pearl Harbor. Early spring and late fall is when prices go down and crowds disperse.

Special events in Oahu in the spring include the Paradise Cove Luau in April, and May Day Lei Day on May 1st. These cultural events will wow visitors with their performances, lei-making workshops, local crafts and music, and more. 

Travelers heading to Oahu in September and October can also enjoy the Aloha Festival , the biggest cultural festival in the state. This festival spans an entire week and is full of Hawaiian music, dance, history, and culture.

Best time to travel to Hawaii: Big Island

Beast time to travel: April, August-September

The Big Island is home to attractions like Mauna Kea, the Kona coffee plantations, and more. In April you can enjoy the Big Island Chocolate Festival and the Hawaii Arts, Crafts, and Food Festival . The Merrie Monarch Festival , the biggest hula competition on the planet, also follows Easter Sunday. Those visiting in August and September can enjoy plenty of farmer’s markets and free outdoor music.

Best time to go to Hawaii: Kauai

Beast time to travel : September-December

Kauai, known as the “Garden Isle”, is best at the beginning of winter. Take advantage of less rain, nice weather, and smaller crowds.

The Kauai Mokihana Festival , which celebrates local music, crafts, and dance, takes place every September. Throughout October, November, and December, you can take enjoy plenty of regular cultural events and concerts.

Costs and crowds

I get it: overly expensive travel fares and large crowds can put a damper on even the most perfect trip. That’s why I’m here to help you effectively plan your trip around these two factors.

Peak seasons

Hawaii’s peak tourist season typically occurs around Christmas, as people take advantage of the time off work and escape the cold. Hawaii also experiences peak tourism in the summer months of June and July . As a result, these are often the most expensive times for airfare and accommodation. 

For the off-peak season, opt for late spring (April or May) or early fall (September or October). This gives you more options for cheaper accommodation and plane tickets, and you won’t have to fight the crowds. You can also look for tips to find cheap flights .

You may also want to consider all-inclusive packages .

Avoid the crowds

If you are visiting during peak season, there are still ways to avoid the crowds. First, book everything as far in advance as possible. This goes for accommodation, plane tickets, tours, and any beaches that require reservations. Getting in early will give you access to cheaper prices and off-peak times.

Once you arrive, try to wake up earlier than the average tourist. Arrive at the beaches before 8 am to grab the perfect spot, visit restaurants at off-peak times to beat the rush, and try not to plan hikes around midday.

Outdoor activities

Hawaii’s incredible beaches, picturesque sea cliffs, enchanting rainforests, and majestic mountains are some of the state’s main attractions. Put another way: no one comes to Hawaii to stay inside. When booking your trip, factor in the conditions for your favored outdoor activities. Just remember to always be respectful .

Water activities

If swimming is all you’re after, the best time to visit Hawaii is the summer. Sure, it might be more crowded, but this is when the weather is nicest and the water is warmest. It’s also the best time for paddle boarding, kayaking, canoeing, and the like.

If snorkeling is what you’re after, visit during May through September. The water is warm, the tides are calm, and this is when you’ll get the best visibility underwater. 

Surfers should plan based on their experience level. Advanced surfers will enjoy the challenge of the waves during the winter, particularly from late October to early March. Beginner surfers, though, may appreciate the calmer waters during the summer. 

If you want to go whale-watching, plan your trip from January through March. This is peak whale-watching season, and sometimes you’ll even be able to see humpback whales from the shore. To guarantee a sighting, though, it’s best to book a tour.

Hawaii’s mountains, valleys, and rainforests are well worth exploring, too. If you’re looking for the best time to hike in Hawaii, book your trip either during late spring (April or May) or early fall (September). This will help you avoid the rainy season without scorching yourself in the heat of summer.

Those looking to explore the golf courses in Hawaii can visit from April to October. Biking enthusiasts will want to plan their trip anytime from September to mid-May. This will help you avoid the heat and humidity of the summer.

Headed to Hawaii for the waterfalls? Visit during winter. Since this is the rainy season, the waterfalls will be at their fullest and most majestic.

Cultural experiences

Hawaii has a unique history, and many of its traditions are still standing today. These include events like luaus, hula competitions, and more. 

If you’re mainly interested in luaus and hula competitions , plan your trip sometime in June through September. This is when the largest amount of these celebrations occur. 

To experience the statewide Aloha Festivals, visit during September. These festivals run all month long and you can enjoy performances, reenactments, parades, special food, and more. 

For those interested in watersports, I recommend heading to Duke’s Oceanfest in August. This festival includes surfing, paddleboard racing, beach volleyball, and water polo. Hardcore surfers will also want to hit the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing in Oahu in November and December.

Those interested in the local coffee scene can head to the Big Island for the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival in November.

How was this guide put together?

As the type of traveler who likes a good mix of relaxing on the beach and unique cultural activities, I’ve always been fascinated by Hawaii. It’s currently at the top of my travel bucket list, so this guide came together as a combination of my own tropical travel experience and extensive research for future trips.

As you’ve seen, the best time to go to Hawaii is different for everyone. It largely depends on what you’re looking for: surfers and whale watchers should visit during a completely different time than hikers, snorkelers, and sunbathers. 

No matter what time of year you visit Hawaii, though, be sure to do your research, book in advance, and pack properly to enjoy your trip to the fullest.

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15 Best Hawaii Road trips

Many of us fantasize about that dream trip to Hawaii: lounging on a sandy beach by day and attending a fiery luau at night, spending hours in the warm ocean, and perking up with a tropical drink at the cabana.

Did you know that beyond the confines of a resort, the true splendor of Hawaii unfolds along its many roads? Though the Big Island at its biggest is only 93 miles across, between the seven inhabited islands of the vast Hawaiian archipelago, there are hundreds of miles of roads connecting some of the best beaches and tropical forests you will ever see.

On our list of the 15 best road trips around Hawaii you will cruise by vermillion cliffs with steep ridges brushing the ocean, tranquil beaches with powdery sand, and ancient temples venerating the gods that make these islands living magic.

Get ready for your road trip through paradise by reading our suggestions below on the best road trips in Hawaii. Let your own imagination run wild! Soon enough, you'll be parking your car next to golden sands and turquoise waves.

Some of our favorite Hawaii road trips

As you can imagine, there are incredible day trips you can do on each Hawaiian island. Almost all of them can be completed in less than three hours, but we understand if you'd like to take a little more time.

Be aware that there aren't any ferries between the islands, so you will have to fly between them and rent a new vehicle on each island in case you wanted to try several different routes on a single vacation.

1. Big Island (Island of Hawaii): South Kona Scenic Drive

20 mile road trip (50 minutes)

Why you should visit: A quiet escape on the Big Island, Kona is a coffee-drinker's paradise and bursting with history.

From typically idyllic Hawaiian beaches to ancient temples and rustic farms, there's a surprising amount to see, taste, and enjoy on this relatively short loop.

How to get there: Starting in Captain Cook, head west to Manini Beach via Route 160. From Manini, head south to Two Step, then head back inland to Keokea. Finally, head back north to Captain Cook via the Paleaku Gardens Peace Sanctuary, all along Route 160.

Our highlights: Kona is world-renowned as a coffee-producing region so while you're here, it would be worthwhile to explore the cultivation of this oh-so-aromatic brew. Just outside Captain Cook you can tour working farms at Hala Tree Coffee and the Kona Coffee Living History Farm.

Manini Beach wraps around the deep blue Kealakekua Bay, a short way from Captain Cook. This peaceful and secluded beach is the perfect place to relax after visiting busier parts of the Big Island.

Learn more about indigenous Hawaiian culture at the Puuhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park. Here they have a reconstruction of ancient villages with large, A-frame homes, as well as burial grounds and totemic sculptures, all along a pristine beach.

At the inland hamlet of Keokea (not to be confused with the other Keokea in Maui), you can tour one of the many small farms here, or at least refresh yourself with a smoothie from the local juice stand.

As you begin your way back to Captain Cook, stop in at the St. Benedict Catholic Church, also known as the ‘Painted Church,' and admire its colorful interiors.

To see another eclectic and similarly spiritual place, head to the Paleaku Gardens Peace Sanctuary. Here you can wander a labyrinth in their botanical gardens and see a Native America medicine wheel.

Bonus: Just north of Manini Beach you can find Hikiau Heiau, a small, but deeply fascinating historical site that was once a great temple. It was here that Captain Cook met his demise after a failed kidnapping attempt of Kalaniʻōpuʻu, a local leader, in 1779.

2. Big Island (Island of Hawaii): From Kealakekua Bay to Kilauea

85 mile road trip (2 hours)

Why you should visit: The many different forms and results of the Hawaiian Islands' famous volcanism are on full display on this trip.

Wander long stretches of black sands, climb beneath a cinder cone, and explore ancient lava tubes on this fascinating and fiery trip.

How to get there: Drive south from Kealakekua Bay along Highway 11 for 75 miles, following it back north to Kilauea.

Our highlights: Marvel at the black sands of Honomalino Beach, accessible via a narrow road from Highway11. Given its remote location, you'll largely have this remarkable beach to yourself to walk and take in the obsidian-hued beauty.

Punaluʻu Beach is the most famous black sand beach of the Big Island. Here you can lounge upon the midnight of lava fragments, sunbathing beside green sea turtles, then retreat to the welcome shade of the coconut trees surrounding the beach or the waters of the Punaluʻu Bay, which are also fed by underwater fresh springs.

Stand in awe of a natural wonder still treated as sacred by native Hawaiians at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Here Kilauea and Mauna Loa, two of the world's most active volcanoes, continue to seep out glowing, molten, lava in the continuous process that has formed Hawaiian over millions of years. This is where deep geological history lives on in the present before your very eyes.

Surrounding the Volcanoes National Park, you can find many nature preserves and trails through landscapes otherworldly as well as lush. You can also go on guided tours of extinct lava caves strung about with tropical vines at the Kahaualeʻa Natural Area Reserve.

Drive or walk along the spectacular chain of craters road which runs from the raised sides of Makaopuhi Crater, through hardened fields of lava from previous eruptions, all the way to the ocean. On the way, take in the view of the charcoal landscape from the Mauna Ulu Lookout and be sure to snap a pic at the Holei Sea Arch once you get to the beach.

Bonus: Kilauea has been continuously erupting since 1983 and there are sometimes up to 10 vents where magma bubbles up from the depths.

Our travel tips: This route also passes by the Pu'uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park.

You can buy your pass for Hawaii Volcanoes National Park online and passes are valid for 7 days, so you can plan to explore the park over several days.

Also check the park service website for closures due to eruptions and seismic activity.

Click here to skip back to the top.

3. Big Island (Island of Hawaii): From Hilo to Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site

100 mile road trip (2 hours 20 minutes)

Why you should visit: Enjoy the sheer variety of this trip which takes you from the familiar paradise-like beaches to the inland pastoral regions and sites linked with the Big Island's larger than life leader of the 18th century.

As you leave Hilo, be sure to roll down the windows and take in that sweet tropical aroma as you drive through scenic Pepeekeo to the north where King Kamehameha once ruled.

How to get there: From Hilo, head north on Hawaii Highway 19 and continue along the coast, then west inland, until you reach Waimea. There, look for Kohala Mountain Road/Highway 250 and drive 20 miles to the Statue of King Kamehameha. Finally, go west, then south, to the Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site via Hawaii Highway 270.

Our highlights: If you have the time, don't rush through Waimea. This inland destination is famous for its Hawaiian take on cowboy culture, known as paniolo. There are green pastures surrounded by hills, historic ranches, and even the chance to adventure the surrounding countryside on horseback. In the town center you'll also find some delicious local restaurants and the Big Island Brewhaus.

At the center of Kohala stands the Statue of King Kamehameha, who reigned in the 18th century and was a great unifier among the islands. The stature here has a twin in the U.S. Capitol in Washington.

A little past Kohala, you can take a short drive to either Keokea Beach Park or Pololu Valley Lookout. Both places offer vivifying contact with the elements and the latter has a stunning view over dramatic coastal cliffs and harrowing trails into a gentle tropical valley.

At the Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site you will come face to face with the legacy of King Kamehameha, who built this Heiau, or temple, in 1719. The stone base of the temple has been reconstructed and at the site there is a small museum with knowledgeable rangers.

A short drive south of Highway 19 will take you by some alluring places on the Big Island's resort hot spot, the Kohala Coast: Maulumae Beach, Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area, and Beach 69. Further south you will find the pebble-strewn shores of Kiholo Bay where you can see sea turtles enjoying the beaches along with everyone else.

Bonus: King Kamehameha built the last and largest of the recorded Heiau at Pu'ukohola. By building this under the instruction of a kahuna, or priest, and dedicating it to the god of war, that priest's prophecy was fulfilled and King Kamehameha united the Hawaiian Islands into a single kingdom.

4. Oahu: West Coast Drive

40 mile road trip (1 hour 10 minutes)

Why you should visit: The Waianae, or Leeward, Coast along the western shores of Oahu is the more rustic counterpart to Honolulu and Waikiki in the south.

With less-developed shores and stunning natural beauty, including the idyllic Makua Valley, this is a trip that calls to those who want to head out and discover something new about Oahu.

How to get there: From Honolulu head northwest on Hawaiian Interstate 201 then jump on Interstate 1 near Pearl City. Take this toward Kapolei, then head north on Farrington Highway/Route 93, which will take you 20 miles up the coast to Kaʻena Point State Park.

Our highlights: Hike the trails along Mt. Ka'ala, the highest peak on Oahu, accessible a few miles inland from Waianae. While you don't have to hike to the summit, if you like a challenge, there is a 7-mile trek all the way to the top with awe-inspiring views along the way.

Nurture your inner adventurer by visiting the 16th-century temple at Kaneaki Heiau, now buried deep within the jungle. This sacred site is constructed of local stone and is dedicated to the ancient Hawaiian god Lono. This is considered to be the best-preserved Heiau on all the islands.

Along the Farrington Highway just north of Ohiki-Lolo Beach, look out for the Kaneana Cave, also known as the Makua Cave. There's a bit of a hike up to this cave, which is an extinct lava tube that was long worshipped in connection with the Hawaiian creator god Kane.

At the end of the road, you'll find the thoroughly inviting Keawaula Beach. You're just as likely to find a few surfers as you are rainbows in this relatively isolated cove.

Finally, hike the rugged coastal trails of Kaʻena Point State Park. Starting from Keawaula Beach, you can reach Point Pillbox at the northwestern extreme of the island in under 3 miles, passing many eye-catching volcanic formations along the way.

Our travel tips: Some ways to the Kaneaki Heiau ruins are inaccessible due to a gated community, so try to find the access point via Makaha Valley Road and Maunaolu Street.

Be careful around Kaʻena Point State Park as a lot of the waters are rough and unsuitable for swimming.

5. Oahu: Windward Coast to North Shore

40 mile road trip (1 hour 20 minutes)

Why you should visit: For those who can't get enough of inspiring natural scenery and the wind in their hair, the beautiful beaches and lush hills of the Windward side of Oahu are waiting.

This is another trip that takes advantage of Oahu's many facets, covering a wild and less ventured side of the island.

How to get there: Starting in Kaneohe on the east side of Oahu, head north on Hawaiian Route 83. Follow the coastal road for the entire route, all along the northeastern coast, before rounding the tip of the island and arriving in Haleiwa.

Our highlights: A must-see is the Kualoa Regional Park and Secret Island, about 10 miles north of Kaneohe. The large lawn and smooth sand of the regional park opens up to expansive views of craggy mountains covered in tropical jungle. From here you can also see the petite Mokoli'i Island, which looks like a hat dropped in the sea.

Set out on a steep hike up to Crouching Lion, a rocky outcrop from where you'll have fantastic views of Kahana Bay. This is not a hike for beginners but will become a favorite of those who love a more challenging trail, with amazing vegetation and ocean views in all directions.

Laie is a small town on Route 83 with lots to offer. At the Polynesian Cultural Center, you can learn more about the brave sea-faring people who first populated these islands, and at Laie Point walk along rocky cliffs with views up and down the eastern coast.

Just after Pupukea and through a wondrous garden filled with tropical flowers, you'll hear the trance-like sound of Waimea Falls. One of the most scenic falls on Oahu, here the cool waters of the highland flow down into a large pool where you can swim and really get the feeling that you're living the island life.

After so much scenery and innumerable natural delights, you will be welcomed by even more stunning beaches on the north shore near Haleiwa. Slightly more built up than the other hamlets on this route, there are some great restaurants and boutique shops in this northern hub for you to refuel and prepare for another day of exploring beaches.

Bonus: If some of the scenery around Kualoa seems familiar, it's because these unforgettably jagged and ruffled hills were the filming location of the blockbuster “Jurassic Park” and dozens of other films.

Our travel tips: This side of Oahu is a bit cooler and receives more rain than the western coast, so bring layers to keep warm and dry.

6. Oahu: Ultimate round trip from Honolulu

110 mile road trip (3 hours 30 minutes)

Why you should visit: Beyond the urban areas of Honolulu and Waikiki, the south, east, and north sides of Oahu are easily accessible by road and can give you that remote paradise feeling without having to island hop.

Rugged coasts contrasted with dreamy beaches and ample jungle trails are just a few of the stunning features of this exhilarating loop route around Oahu.

How to get there: Starting in Honolulu, drive south to Waikiki, then follow the coast along Hawaii Highway 72 to Hanauma Bay and Makapu'u Point, before starting north along the eastern shore.

In Kailua Beach, take Highway 630 to the Kamehameha Highway/Route 83, which will take you all the way north to Kahuku, before it curves along the northern shore to Haleiwa. From here, take the inland Highway 803, south through Waipio, where you can take Hawaiian Interstates H-2 and H-201 back to Honolulu.

Our highlights: In and near the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, you'll find countless lookout points and places to explore. Start with the lookout over the bay itself, then head to Lana'i Lookout nearby for amazing ocean views.

For a more dynamic way to explore the area, go snorkeling in the marine preserve or hike along the Koko Crater Railway trail. For even more coastal views, drive to the Spitting Cave or China Walls at the other edge of the peninsula.

A little further down the road, at the southeastern extreme of the island, there's a fabulous trail to Makapu'u Lighthouse, which follows the contours of the bushy hills to a stunning vista over the cliffs. Down at Makapu'u Beach, rent a surfboard or simply let the perfect waves carry your seemingly weightless body back to the sandy shore.

In Kailua, take the time to meander the laid-back Lanikai Pillbox hike to a set of graffiti-covered bunkers overlooking the blue gradient of Kailua Bay and the Ko'olau Mountains. This trail is as rewarding as it is accessible, with only a few steep spots, and it would be a great place for a picnic with a view. There are tons of great restaurants in town for takeaway poke or a rice plate.

In addition to being a long beach with warm, powder-like sand, Kailua Beach Park often tops lists of the best beaches in Oahu. Since it is protected by a reef and receives a fair amount of offshore winds, it is a popular beach for windsurfing and other adrenaline-boosting watersports. There are also bathrooms and nearby restaurants, making it convenient to visit for a few hours as part of a larger trip.

The stretch of ocean highway from Waikane to Kahuku is one of the most scenic in Oahu. On one side you have a series of small beaches interspersed with rocky coves and on the others the ruddy crests and folds of volcanic hills. You'll also pass by Kualoa Ranch, where parts of “Jumanji” and “Jurassic Park” were filmed.

If you'd like to see the tropical jungle and beaches of Oahu's northeastern shore, look out for some amazing zipline courses near Kahuku.

What would a Hawaiian road trip be without a waterfall? On the north shore, as you approach the northern hub of Waimea, look for a trail to the Waimea Falls, which also has a prime swimming hole down below and a stream leading to the ocean where sea turtles and other wildlife are often spotted.

Bonus: Even though Oahu doesn't have any active volcanoes, just south of Waikiki you can climb the weathered cone of Diamond Head State Monument, an extinct volcano that partially formed the island millions of years ago. In addition to some great views of Waikiki, there are also lava tubes and old bunkers along the way.

Our travel tips: While all beaches in Hawaii are open to the public, be careful about parking on private roads. Look to park in designated lots or along larger roads to avoid being towed.

In case you have a green thumb or simply would like to learn more about the unique plants and trees you've seen on Oahu, there are two botanical gardens along this route, one near Kaneohe, the Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden, and the other in Wahiawa, a town you'll pass as you come back towards Honolulu along Highway 803, just before the Interstate H 2 intersection.

If you'd like to read more about driving around Oahu, be sure to check out our guide to road tripping around this fabulous island.

READ MORE - How long does it take to drive around Oahu?

7. Lanai: Lanai City to Polihua Beach

10 mile road trip (50 minutes)

Why you should visit: Even though Lanai is the smallest inhabited Hawaiian Island, it used to be home to the largest Pineapple plantation in the world.

This rugged tropical island should appeal to lovers of uncharted dirt roads, eerie geological formations, and cats!

How to get there: The Kanepuu Highway connects Lanai City with Polihua Beach, passing the Garden of the Gods on the way.

Our highlights: Since everyone loves Hawaii, and many people love cats, it is only natural that there is a large subset of people who love both Hawaii and cats. At the Lanai Cat Sanctuary in Lanai City, people come all the way from Maui just to spend a day cuddling these cuties and watching them frolic in a large, open-air cat playground.

There's a treat for arts aficionados in Lanai City as well. Stop by the Mike Carroll Gallery to see beautiful paintings undoubtedly inspired by the tropical surroundings and learn more about the local art scene from Mike himself and his wife.

You'd be forgiven for thinking you've landed on Mars, once you arrive at the Garden of the Gods. This rust-colored boulder field is not quite the Hawaiian landscape many would expect, being more like the backdrop of a surrealist painting.

Once you make it over some jostling terrain, you'll feel like you're back on a tropical island along the unspoiled 1.5 mile long Polihua Beach. This is not a beach for the faint of heart, but a perfect escape from the crowds of Maui.

Bonus: In case you've ever wondered what an elusive billionaire's island is like, look no further than Lanai. Since 2012, most of its land is owned by Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison.

Our travel tips: There are no paved roads in Lanai, so you will have the chance to have a true off-the-beaten path experience. There are Jeep and ATV rentals on the island. Especially the road to the Garden of the Gods is quite rough.

Be careful to park your vehicle on the dirt leading up to Polihua Beach, rather than the beach itself, so you don't get stuck in the sand.

If you've brought plenty of food and water, as well as wind protection, also consider spending a night under the stars at the Polihua Beach.

8. Maui: Upcountry Drive

30 mile road trip (50 minutes)

Why you should visit: Out of sight of the coastal resorts, the thriving heartland of Maui beats with a living culture and thriving community spirit.

In addition to its majestic mountain views and charming towns, the nutrient rich soils give life to dozens of nurseries and farms that supply the local markets.

How to get there: Starting in Paia in the north, head south on Baldwin Avenue to Makawao, then take Makawao Ave to Highway 37. This passes through Kula and Keokea. You can even take it to Piilani highway to explore the south Coast.

Our highlights: Towards the beginning of your drive in Pukalani, look for the Upcountry Farmer's Market, held every Saturday morning until 11a.m. The taste of paradise is in every fruit, nut, and beverage you can find here, from pineapples and macadamias to probiotic preparations.

It doesn't take long in the Upcountry to appreciate the many farmers and artisans who work within these fertile valleys. Visit the Ocean Vodka Organic Farm and Distillery to taste a broad range of organic produce paired with fresh and imaginative cocktails, all while taking in the serene views.

Wander the scented grounds of the Ali'i Kula Lavender Farm, on the outskirts of Kula. Even though you are thoroughly relaxed from your time in Maui, it might be a good idea to bring back some calming sachets and oils to sooth the nerves once you get home.

If you'd like to get up close and personal with the unique tropical canopy of the Upcountry, head towards Skyline Hawaii. Located at the base of Haleakala just outside of Kula, this consciously managed zipline course is staffed by passionate and knowledgeable stewards of the surrounding landscape.

As you approach the south, near the border with the Kanaio Nature Reserve Area, look for the Triple L Ranch, where you can go on a guided horseback tour through the lush hills.

If you're still in a more laidback mood, a few miles before the Ranch you can sit and try some of the unique fruit spirits at MauiWine.

9. Maui: Honoapiilani Highway from Waikapu to Nakalele Blowhole

35 mile road trip (1 hour 10 minutes)

Why you should visit: Dramatic cliffs and the outstretched Pacific Ocean are the stars of this adventurous coastal drive.

Wonder at the rich, red, volcanic soils exposed along the edges of deep, verdant gulches that carry rain-fed streams out to sea.

How to get there: This whole route follows Hawaiian Highway 30. You could also drive it as a loop all along the island's north coast, cutting back inland to Waikapu at Kahului.

Our highlights: From Maalaea to Kapalua along the coast, there are several places to pull over and look over the horizon. This area is well-known for whale watching, so bring some binoculars and catch a glimpse of the sea's most majestic migrants; McGregor's Point is a good place for whale spotting.

A little further on, take a break to enjoy the crystal-clear waters of Olowalu Beach or stand among the swaying palms at Launiupoko Beach Park.

In Lahaina ask around for Banyan Court. Here you will see the oldest living resident of Maui, a sprawling banyan tree with aerial tendrils inching their way down from every branch. It is truly a tree to remember and there are plenty of places to grab a snack or refreshment nearby.

If you'd like to stretch your legs, in Kapalua there is a lovely coastal trail. Partially paved, partially boardwalk, it takes you through tropical gardens and past tide pools teeming with life.

The Nakalele Blowhole is where the land and sea clash in a dramatic display of the ocean's power and the land's stubborn resistance. Mist and the occasional rainbow embrace the rugged cliffs of this popular lookout point.

Our travel tips: Be prepared for unbeatable views as well as narrow roads. Some sections are only one-way with a few pullouts for passing traffic, so be sure you are confident to tackle this drive and be sure to honk around any blind corners. The road gets significantly more challenging after the Nakalele Blowhole, so consider turning around there.

10. Maui: Road to Hana

45 mile road trip (2 hours 10 minutes)

Why you should visit: The Road to Hana has become legendary amongst visitors and locals alike as one of the most scenic and rewarding stretches of road on any of the Hawaiian Islands.

Maui is famous for its countless waterfalls carrying rainwater from the faces of towering volcanoes to the ever-accepting ocean. On the Road to Hana you will pass some of Maui's most idyllic tropical waterfalls.

How to get there: The zero-mile marker of the Road to Hana stands in Haiku Hawaii. From here, take Hawaiian Highway 360, along innumerable curves, to Hana and even beyond. Our route leads all the way to Kipahulu on the south coast, 44 miles from Haiku.

Our highlights: Before you start out, in Haiku wander through a forest where the rainbows aren't only in the sky but emerging through the very bark of the eucalyptus trees in the Rainbow Forest. As if Hawaii needed anything to be more magical!

Leave ample time to stop at a few of the waterfalls along the way, like Twin Falls, Haipua'ena Falls, Hanawi Falls, and Upper Waikani Falls, where you can see three waterfalls emerge from the jungle. Some of the waterfalls are right by the road and others require a short walk. Many also have pools underneath where you can swim and enjoy the fresh waters.

Even though there's no extensive trail system at Waianapanapa State Park, it is well worth the visit to see long strands of charcoal-colored sand and emerald forest entwined around the purest azure ocean. The scenery is like something out of a fantastic adventure novel and you'll be glad you included this stop on your trip.

You'll truly feel like you're entering the underworld of some forgotten legend as you step inside the Hana Lava Tubes. A botanical garden and maze sit atop the tubes, but the real adventure lies in the Earth's bowels.

A step away from the obvious path in Hana will lead you down a much narrower one to the vibrant red sands of Kaihalulu Beach, which seems to be almost guarded by a ridge of rocks out in the ocean. This hidden gem has become many a tripper's favorite on their journey through Hana.

Further south on the coast from Hana you'll come along the stunning Wailua Falls and rugged ʻOheʻo Gulch opening like a chasm from the dense forest of exotic trees. In Kipahulu you can hike the Pipiwai Trail to an ancient banyan tree or relax in the gardens of the rustic church where Charles Lindbergh is buried.

Bonus: On this route you'll pass countless parks and trails. You can breathe a bit easier as you stop your car to explore knowing that there are no native snakes on Hawaii!

Our travel tips: Be forewarned: you need advanced reservations to enter Waianapanapa State Park due to limited parking and the need to protect the fragile environment from too many visitors.

11. Maui: The South Coast Drive

50 mile road trip (2 hours 10 minutes)

Why you should visit: Starting in the rustic Upcountry hub of Kula, this trip takes you through the rainforest, past deep gulches and waterfalls to the fabulous beaches of Hana.

Though the Road to Hana is a popular road trip, this route takes you there from the less-traveled south side and past many secluded gems.

How to get there: Starting in Kula, drive south on Highway 37 for about 12 miles , before veering left onto the Piilani Highway, which follows the coastline. This route turns into Hawaiian Highway 360 after Kalepa Gulch and takes you all the way to Hana and Hamoa Beach.

Our highlights: As you cruise the coast, take time to admire the Manawainui Gulch and ʻOheʻo Gulch along the way. These gulches funnel the ample rain the island receives into the sea, leaving distinctive creases on the hillsides and giving life to an abundance of trees and flowers.

You don't want to miss the signs for Wailua Falls along Highway 360. This iconic, classically Hawaiian waterfall plunges 80 feet from a jungle cliff into a pool perfect for swimming a little downstream. It is accessible by a well-maintained path through a bamboo forest.

Stop by the mesmerizing Waioka Pond, also known as Venus Pool. This warm body of water beside the ocean is surrounded by lush vegetation and large rocks perfect for making a big splash.

Hamoa Beach is a frontrunner for one of the best beaches in Maui, with clear, aquamarine waves that are suitable for surfing and snorkeling alike. The edge of the beach has ample shade for relaxing and enjoying the picturesque scenery a little while longer.

Bonus: The man who pioneered trans-Atlantic flight, Charles Lindbergh's, found his final resting place in Maui after making the island his home for many years.

Whether you're an avid fan of aviation or not, his grave along Highway 360, just before the ʻOheʻo Gulch, is a peaceful place to admire the small wooden church surrounded by a tropical garden and horses.

12. Maui: Hana to Haleakala National Park

70 mile road trip (2 hours 50 minutes)

Why you should visit: The chance to travel above the clouds and see one of the most spectacular sunrises of your life awaits you at Haleakala.

At 10,032 feet, this dormant volcano's summit offers such unobstructed views that there's even an observatory here.

How to get there: From Hana, drive north on Hawaiian Highways 360, 365, and 377 until you reach Kula. There, look for the road into the park and the summit, Hawaiian Highway 378, and follow the winding route all the way up.

Our highlights: On your way to or from Haleakala from Hana, be sure to leave plenty of time to take in the many coves, waterfalls, and beaches along the breathtaking Hana Highway. Look out for the eye-catching cliffs of Ke‘Anae.

Undoubtedly one of the most popular things to do at Haleakala National Park is to catch the summit at sunrise. This is a rare moment to connect with the awe that people have been feeling for thousands of years, as the sun rises over a sea of mist blanketing the ocean on all sides.

Not an early riser? A similarly dazzling experience is to visit the summit at sunset. You can even join a guided stargazing tour after dark.

In this massive and unique national park, there are also many trails and lookouts that give you a whole new perspective on this natural marvel. Try the Halemau'u Overlook Trail, which you'll see on the road to the summit, or look for signs to the Leleiwi Overlook, which is less than a half-mile hike from the road.

Bundle up and spend the night at Haleakala. There are two different campgrounds in the national park, one on the summit road and another closer to the coastal areas. Make a reservation beforehand on the park's website and bring all the supplies to need for a rustic barbeque and s'more session at night.

Bonus: “Haleakalā” means "house of the sun" in the local dialect, which just tells you how much people appreciate making celestial observations from this sacred spot.

Our travel tips: You might need to make a reservation to visit the national park during sunrise from 3-7am. Check the up-to-date website to avoid any disappointment if you'd like to enjoy a stunning sunrise.

Given that this is one of Maui's most popular bucket list experiences, you'll have to book a pass to drive the winding road up to the summit 60 days early on the park's website.

When the day of your visit finally arrives, be sure to hit the hay extra early the night before. Throughout the year, sunrise is from 5:30 to 7 a.m. so you should start driving from Hana around 3 or 4 in the morning to catch the sunrise.

13. Kauai: North Shore and Na Pali Coast

15 mile road trip (40 minutes)

Why you should visit: On Kauai you feel like you've found the land before time when the sun reveals the sharp shadows of the island's volcanic ridges.

This is an island more geared towards ecotourism. With unspoiled natural landscapes, innumerable waterfalls, and plentiful beaches, it is often called the most beautiful Hawaiian island.

How to get there: Starting from Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, take Highway 56 north for 4.5 miles to the junction with the Kuhio Highway/ 560 West just before the Hanalei Valley lookout, then continue for 10 miles on that road to Haena State Park.

Our highlights: Before you leave Kilauea see the lighthouse at the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge. Here you can also catch a glimpse of rare marine bird species along the untamed beauty of the north coast.

Even though all of Kauai can seem like a botanical garden, at the Princeville Botanical Gardens, you can learn more about some of the exotic blossoms that you've been seeing around the island. They also offer chocolate tastings, yum!

As you approach the stunning Hanalei Bay, make sure to stop at the Hanalei Valley Lookout to get that postcard view of Kauai: patches of lush agricultural land edging up to towering mountains with corrugated sides casting dramatic shadows.

Further on you'll find Hanalei, an adorable beachside community. Consider stopping here for a delicious lunch at one of the local restaurants or walk along the dazzling Hanalei Beach. The waves look awfully inviting!

But Hanalei is only the beginning. This route features several stunning and isolated beaches, perfect for a picnic, snorkeling, or that romantic sunset. Waikoko Beach, Lumahai Beach, and Tunnels Beach are just a few of your options.

Once you arrive at Haena State Park, be prepared to fully embrace that tropical paradise vibe. The gorgeous Keʻe Beach has a protective reef great for snorkeling, but the sands are also ideal for lounging in disbelief that you're actually here.

While you need to register for a permit in advance to trek the entire rugged and remote Kalalau trail of the Na Pali Coast Wilderness, you can hike the first two miles of the Kalalau Trail to the breathtaking Hanakapiai Beach and waterfall without a permit.

Bonus: Kauai is the oldest inhabited Hawaiian island, formed 5.1 million years ago from a “hotspot” within the Pacific Plate. Like the other Hawaiian Islands, Kauai has rich volcanic soils that lead to a stunning abundance and diversity of natural life.

Our travel tips: To protect the many species and fragile ecosystems of Haena State Park, non-resident visitors will need to register for day use parking ahead of time via the park's website. You will not be able to enter the park without registration.

The Kalalau trail along the Na Pali coast offers an unparalleled tropical adventure, from along its seven valleys to remote and pristine beaches.

If you are an avid hiker, register for permits well in advance and check the weather reports as your trip approaches as extreme weather often prevents year-long access to the trail.

14. Kauai: Waimea Canyon and Kalalau Lookout

30 mile road trip (1 hour)

Why you should visit: Sometimes called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”, the steep, red cliffs of Waimea have been drawing people to this remarkable formation for generations.

As if one natural wonder wasn't enough, this route takes you to the jaw dropping Kalalau Lookout which will have you feeling like you've reached the edge of the known world.

How to get there: From Lawai start driving west on Hawaiian Highway 50 until you arrive at the coastal town of Waimea, then start driving on Waimea Canyon Drive, through the canyon, for 18 miles until you come to Kalalau Lookout and the Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park.

Our highlights: Before you officially come to Waimea state park, keep your eyes out for the Iliau Nature Loop, a short trail that can easily be covered in less than 30 minutes. Along the trail you'll find informative plaques about the flowers and plants that you see here, and only here, like the native Iliau itself.

On this route you'll pass two lookouts over the rust-colored canyon: Waimea Canyon Lookout and the Pu'u Hinahina Viewpoint. Have your camera ready at both, because once you leave here, you'll hardly believe that you came to such an otherworldly place.

If you're up for a challenging hike, take the Waimea Canyon Trail, which starts near the Pu'u Hinahina Viewpoint, down through the red rocks and occasionally dense tropical vegetation of the canyon. This leads to the top of the seasonal Waipo'o Waterfall which you can also see from the Waimea Canyon Overlook.

The Kalalau Lookout peers from 4,000 feet into the iconic Kalalau valley, with a two-mile wide floor and ruffled cliffs that have served as adventurous backdrops in films from “Jurassic Park” to “Mighty Joe Young.” The mouth of this wide valley opens to the boundless seas, making a vista that is truly legendary.

While there's no way to get to Kalalau Beach on the famous Nā Pali Coast from the lookout, a few hundred feet from the lookout you can take the Awa'awapuhi Trail down into a parallel canyon with similarly inspiring views of the jungle and surf. This one's also for the more outgoing hiker who can handle some steep inclines.

Bonus: In the center of Kaua'i is Mount Wai‘ale‘ale, one of the rainiest places on earth. “Waimea” also means “sacred or reddish water”, hinting at traditional observation of the area's saturated conditions that carved this island's unforgettable cliffs and canyons.

Our travel tips: When hiking canyons, be sure to save strength for the trek back up to the road. As this region received tons of rain, the trails can get muddy and hiking polls can come in handy.

15. Molokai: South Shore Drive

30 mile road trip (1 hour 10 minutes)

Why you should visit: The cinematic cliffs of Molokai are some of the highest in the world and beacon of the many treats this often overlooked island has in store.

After a relaxing drive along the south coast, passing several green gulches, feast your eyes and stomach on the abundance of the Halawa Valley.

How to get there: Starting in Kualapu'u, take Hawaiian Route 470 to the southern coast. Take a left onto the Mauna Loa Highway for a short drive to the Kamehameha V Highway, which will take you the remaining 27 miles to Halawa Valley.

Our highlights: A few miles south of Kualapuu look out for the Maunahui-Makakupa'ia trailhead. This dirt road can be driven by a sturdy off-road vehicle or you can walk a few miles through a gorgeous forest to an overlook of the Waikoku Valley.

The golden sands of Kumimi Beach make a welcome pit stop along the coast. Though there are limited amenities here, the clear waters are ideal for snorkeling or swimming.

Once you arrive in the eastern Halawa Valley, you will be spoiled for choice as you take in the majestic views on all sides. Hike to Moa'ula Falls or take a cultural tour of the remaining taro fields which have been traditionally cultivated for hundreds of years. This gorgeous and fertile valley also contains groves of avocados, passionfruit, cacao, and mangoes.

In addition to the ancient heritage of the Halawa Valley, there are also more recent historical landmarks like the Ierusalem Hou Church. This rustic wooden church sits in a quaint tropical garden that faces Halawa Park along a stream leading to the Ocean.

Bonus: It is believed that the Halawa Valley was first cultivated by Polynesian settlers in the 7th century A.D. Once you see all that this rich land produces, you'll understand why they chose it.

Our travel tips: Be sure to bring water, snacks, a beach blanket, and everything else you might need as there aren't too many stores along the way.

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Also commonly known as “The Big Island,” Hawaii island is the best place to visit in Hawaii if you’re looking for action, fun and diverse outdoor adventures. With 10 of the world’s 14 climate zones, it is known for its active volcanoes, beaches, waterfalls, cultural sites, colored-sand beaches and world-class snorkeling.

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The island of Maui is the best place to visit in Hawaii for families, especially if you enjoy driving and exploring.

Maui is popular for its Road to Hana (more on this must-do attraction later), as well as Haleakala, a dormant volcano. At 10,023 feet above sea level, the summit is an ideal place to catch a stunning sunrise or sunset. However, It can be chilly at the top, so you may want to bring a jacket or sweater!

Situated on Haleakala’s lower slopes in Kula are two unique farms worth visiting. At the Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm, you can walk through lavender fields. A peaceful place, the farm offers tours and lavender products. Nearby, the Surfing Goat Dairy Farm produces award-winning cheeses. On the kid-friendly tours, you’ll feed goats and sample cheese.

The town of Kahului is the place to go if you want to be with the locals and eat where they eat. It’s also a great place to go shopping for authentic Hawaiian trinkets and souvenirs. SheBuysTravel contributor Deb Steenhagen especially recommends the Ka’anapali Beach in Maui for families and beginners who are new to surfing and want to give it a try.

Oahu (North Shore)

Home to the state capital of Honolulu, Oahu has some of Hawaii’s best beaches for families as well as urban amenities. SheBuysTravel contributor Mimi Slawoff feels that Oahu is the best place to visit in Hawaii for first-time visitors since it is typically the easiest to reach and the most affordable for family travel. Plus it offers everything from urban adventures to laid-back island vibes.

Top things to do on Oahu include visiting the North Shore’s world-renowned surfing spots Waimea Bay, Banzai Pipeline and Sunset Beach. Haleiwa, a laid-back surf town, is a fun place to stop for shaved ice and local artwork. Oahu is also known for having some of the best farmers’ markets.

Learning to surf is one of the first things to do on Oahu. It’s a big part of Hawaiian culture. So you’ve got to try it at least once while in Hawaii. Group surf lessons by Surfer Girl Academy are available for those over the age of 12.

Nicknamed the “Pineapple Island”, Lana’i was once home to a plantation that produced 75% of the world’s pineapples. Today it is one of the best places to visit in Hawaii if you want a mix of serenity and adventure.

As one of the smallest inhabited Hawaii islands, Lana’i has incredible snorkeling opportunities as well as views of the Molokai and Maui islands. On the north side of the island sits Shipwreck Beach, popular for its offshore wreck of a WWII tanker.  The secluded Polihua Beach is the best place to spot green turtles and the occasional humpback whale off of the coast.

If you’re into exploring the rugged back roads, a four-wheel drive vehicle will get you access to many off-the-beaten-path treasures. The Garden of the Gods can be found inland, presenting a lunar landscape of rock towers and boulders.

The most undeveloped accessible Hawaiian island, Molokai is a true getaway. Here, you’ll find empty beaches and 30 miles of reef with abundant marine life. The island is mostly populated by native Hawaiians. While they’re protective of their land, they welcome visitors.

There’s only one two-lane highway stretching across the small island, and Molokai doesn’t have a major resort, shopping centers or traffic lights. The small, rustic town of Kaunakakai has places to stock up for supplies.

SheBuysTravel contributor Mimi Slawoff visited with her family and believes that Molokai is one of the best places to visit in Hawaii for couples seeking an intimate island experience as well as families who enjoy authentic excursions led by locals. Some of her favorite activities were snorkeling, taking a cultural hike in Halawa Valley and swimming in the pond beneath Mo`oula Falls.

On the northern tip of the island sits Kalaupapa National Historical Park, accessible only by mule ride, hiking or commuter plane. There you’ll find steep and sheer cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean – in fact, they’re some of the tallest sea cliffs in the world!

Best Attractions to Visit:

The capital of the state, Honolulu is one of the best places to visit in Hawaii for historic landmarks, world-class shopping, nightlife and mouth-watering dining options.

Honolulu is home to some of Oahu’s most historic places such as the Pearl Harbor site and USS Arizona Memorial. Honolulu is also where you’ll find the incredible Diamond Head volcanic crater and the world-famous Waikiki Beach. In the downtown district, you’ll also find important Hawaii landmarks such as the Iolani Palace , the King Kamehameha I statue , the Kawaiahao Church and the Aloha Tower . While you’re there, don’t pass up the opportunity to attend a traditional Polynesian luau !

If you’re into deep-sea fishing, white sand beaches, historic landmarks and coffee farms, the town of Kailua-Kona (also known as Kona) is one of the best places to visit in Hawaii to satisfy those interests. Kona is also where King Kamehameha spent his final years.

Located on the Big Island, Kona is famous for its 100% Kona coffee. Kona has several coffee farms, like Greenwell Farms and Mountain Thunder, where you can walk through a typical 1920s farmhouse, tour the grounds and learn about the coffee growing process. Costumed interpreters demonstrate several traditional crafts, agricultural activities and the everyday tasks of people from the past. If you happen to visit on a Thursday, it’s worth stopping by the nearby Greenwell Store Museum to watch the traditional art of baking Portuguese bread in a large wood-fired forno.

An underwater submarine adventure is a fun way to explore Kona’s beautiful marine life and snap some National Geographic-worthy pics!

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Located in Hilo, the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is one of the best places in Hawaii to visit for an up close and personal look at real, active volcanoes with glowing, oozing lava flows.

SheBuysTravel contributor Keri Baugh visited Hawaii Volcanoes National Park with her kids and says that it is a must-do trip on the Big Island of Hawaii. However, it is a full-day trip, so you will want to plan ahead. In her words, “It is not necessarily a splurge in terms of cost, but it is a splurge in terms of time.” There are several guided tours to the park that will take you to the area and also provide your meals.

At the Kīlauea Visitor Center you’ll learn more about what to see and where to go, as well as receive information about ranger-led tours, trails, and safety information. While at the park, you can walk through the Thurston lava tube, hike the Kilauea Iki Trail, check out the bottom of the Halemaumau crater and view breathtaking sunsets from the Jagger Museum with the crater’s flume glowing red from the lava lake beneath.

Na’Pali Coast State Wilderness Park

Located in Kauai, the Na’Pali Coast State Wilderness Park is one of the best places to visit in Hawaii for adventurous visitors who love hiking, snorkeling and beautiful views. It is known for its towering sea cliffs, narrow valleys and cascading waterfalls.

The Na’Pali Coast is home to the Kalalau Trail, an approximately 11-mile-long trail that has been named one of the most beautiful and dangerous hikes in the United States. Getting to the coast is very challenging and takes a full day. It is also a very popular area for backpacking and camping.

SheBuysTravel contributor Mimi Slawoff’s favorite activities on the Napali Coast are sailing and snorkeling amongst the sea caves. In her opinion, it’s the best way to see Hawaii’s cute spinner dolphins who jump out of the water vertically and spin like a top before diving back into the ocean.

Waikiki Beach

If you’re staying in Honolulu and are in search of a beautiful yet accessible beach, Waikiki Beach is the place to be. Waikiki is a lively beachfront urban oasis with a range of hotels, shops, restaurants and entertainment. It’s also a great family-friendly beach area with typically gentle surf.

Waikiki Beach is calm, which makes it ideal for surfing and stand-up paddling. It’s also a great place to do some whale-watching, take a sunset tour or catch an underwater submarine tour that dives 100 feet underwater to explore artificial reefs.

Waikiki also has several indoor attractions worth visiting such as the Waikiki Aquarium, Honolulu Zoo and Iolani Palace. The nearby Bishop Museum is a cool place to explore Hawaii’s history. Housing thousands of historical and cultural artifacts, the museum has shows and interactive activities sure to impress visitors of all ages.

Diamond Head State Monument

One of Hawaii’s most recognized landmarks, Diamond Head State Monument is a volcanic cone on the island of Oahu known for its historic hiking trail, stunning and panoramic coastal views and military history. It encompasses over 475 acres, including the interior and outer slopes of the crater.

There aren’t many places in the world where you can walk along a trail to the edge of a 300,000-year-old crater, but Diamond Head is one of them. However, if you go (whether alone or via a guided tour ), you’ll want to allow up to two hours for the 1.6-mile round-trip hike. Although not difficult, the trail is uneven at times. Plus, you’ll walk through a tunnel and climb 99 steps at the end! However, the trek is worth the panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Honolulu.

Haleakala National Park

Located on the island of Maui, Haleakala National Park is home to the dormant Haleakalā Volcano and endangered Hawaiian geese. Haleakala means “house of the sun” in Hawaiian, and legend has it that the demigod Maui lassoed the sun from its journey across the sky as it stood on the volcano. From there he was able to slow its descent to make the day last even longer. The park sits 10,023 feet above sea level, providing breathtaking views from all angles.

If there’s one national park that you’ll want to get up early and take a guided sunrise tour for, this is it. In fact, it is known to be one of the best places in Hawaii for watching spectacular, unforgettable sunrises. After the sunrise, you can spend some time exploring the park, admiring the seven-mile-wide crater and watching for the nene goose, Hawaii’s state bird.

Pearl Harbor

Located west of Honolulu, Pearl Harbor is the site of the WWII’s 1941 bombing attack. It’s home to the USS Arizona Memorial. The attack on Pearl Harbor is one of the defining moments in United States and world history. You can explore on your own or go with a travel guide via a guided tour . However, since it is a very popular attraction, you’ll want to reserve your tickets well in advance online. If taking the self-guided Pearl Harbor tour, plan to arrive by 7 a.m. with everyone in your group present.

Tickets for the 75-minute USS Arizona Memorial program are free. However, there’s a limited number available each day. The program includes a short video (with actual attack footage) and a round-trip boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial. Dedicated to those who lost their lives there, the memorial is located above the remains of the sunken ship, the final resting place for more than 1,000 men.

Waimea Canyon State Park

Nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”, the Waimea Canyon State Park is a 10-mile long, 3,000-foot deep canyon on the western side of Kauai island. Although not as big or old as the famous Grand Canyon in Arizona, it is just as amazing and offers beautiful vistas of crested buttes and rugged red rocks.

The main Waimea Canyon Overlook offers dramatic views of Kauai’s interior, while the main road, Waimea Canyon drive, takes you into Kokee State Park. There are several hiking trails for all skill levels, however, a helicopter tour is also a popular way to view the canyon and its waterfalls.

Road to Hana

The Road to Hana is the crown jewel of Hawaii driving tours and a must-do on the island of Maui. With lush rainforest, dramatic and rugged ocean vistas, countless waterfalls and pools, it makes for one of the most memorable and scenic drives while in Hawaii. Along the way, you’ll see waterfalls, black sand beaches and the charming town of Hana.

SheBuysTravel contributor Mimi Slawoff recommends getting up before dawn to get an early start. While the drive is just 52 miles long, with its 620 curves and 59 narrow bridges, it can easily turn the trip into a few hours long. Instead of driving yourself, you may also opt to do a full-day guided tour .

Hanauma Bay National Preserve

Known for its snorkeling, Hanauma Bay National Preserve is one of the best places to visit in Hawaii for exploring the island’s coral reef and diverse marine life. Nestled on the side of Koko Head, it’s roughly a 30-minute drive from Honolulu and offers a wonderful break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

With lush, green hills and beautiful blue waters, Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is a great place to snorkel and see its 400 species of fish and abundance of green sea turtles (honus).  Formed within a volcanic cone, Hanauma Bay is a protected marine life conservation area. Before snorkeling, you’re required to watch a short video about protecting marine life. If possible, aim to get there in the morning.

Kaanapali Beach

Located in the historic town of Lahaina, this family-friendly resort area on the west side of Maui is home to a variety of beachfront hotels , terrific family-friendly restaurants and amazing sunsets. With three miles of white sand and crystal clear water, it is one of the best places to visit in Hawaii for a relaxing, yet fun beach getaway.

In addition to its beach itself, its daily sunset cliff diving ceremony from the Black Rock cliff, Puu Kekaa, is one of the beach’s most popular attractions. Ziplining is a popular activity for getting your adrenaline fix while soaring over the breathtaking coastline. Just in front of the beach is the open-air shopping complex, Whaler’s Village. There you’ll find a variety of shops and restaurants, entertainment and a renowned whaling museum.

Kauai Botanical Gardens

Kauai is known as “the Garden Isle” for a reason. There you can find three of the nation’s five National Tropical Botanical Gardens on Kauai: Allerton Garden and McBryde Garden on the South Shore and Limahuli Garden in Haena. It is certainly one of the best places to visit in Hawaii if you love nature, greenery and gardens.

The largest collection of Hawaiian flora in the world can be found in McBryde Garden while beautiful landscaping and the Jurassic Park-famous Moreton Bay fig trees can be found in Allerton Garden. Limahuli Garden is home to endangered native plants, taro-filled agricultural terraces and striking views of the Kauai North Shore.

Other botanical gardens include the Na Aina Kai Botanical Gardens, Smith’s Tropical Paradise Botanical Garden and the Kauai Coffee Plantation.

Wailea is a luxurious resort community in South Maui known for its beautiful, crescent-shaped beaches and world-class golf courses. It is one of the best places to visit in Hawaii if what you’re looking for is peace, privacy and relaxation.

One of the most popular and beautiful places to visit is Wailea Beach, once named “America’s Best Beach” in 1999. Polo Beach is great for swimming and snorkeling, while Ulua Beach park is a great place to get in your morning or evening walk or job. Wailea also has great trails for hiking and viewing lava fields. In town, there are plenty of opportunities for shopping and entertainment with world-class shops, spas, restaurants and popular area events.

Polynesian Cultural Center

The Polynesian Cultural Center is one of the best places to visit in Hawaii if you want to truly feel the aloha spirit. The park features six island villages representing Hawai‘i, Samoa, Tahiti, Tonga, Fiji and Aotearoa (New Zealand).

At this Polynesian-themed park and living museum, you’ll be fully immersed in each of the Pacific cultures as natives share their traditions through music, dance and activities. You’ll learn to throw a wooden spear, paddle a canoe and cook like a Polynesian. In the Umu Making Experience, you’ll learn how to cook the Samoan way. Besides cooking the food, you’ll also learn how to weave utensils, start a fire and heat rocks.

The center also has family-friendly luaus with a variety of mouthwatering, traditional food. For example, the luau features foods such as lomilomi salmon, chicken long rice and kalua pork.

Waipio Valley Lookout

Located on the Hamakua Coast, the Waipio Valley Lookout is one of the most popular places to visit on the Big Island and one of the best places to visit in Hawaii for striking views of its coastline. This beautiful valley is marked by cliffs of up to 2,000 feet high, waterfalls, taro fields and rivers.

Also named “The Valley of the Kings” Waipio Valley isn’t just about its incredible views. It is also an important site for Hawaiian history and culture, once the home of thousands of Native Hawaiians. Now, there are less than 100 residents who live there.

Note: Waipio Valley Road has been closed to visitors since February 25, 2022. halting all tourist and volunteer activities and prohibiting hiking access to the black sand beaches for non-residents. However, the lookout point can still be accessed.

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Best Time to Visit Hawaii

Top times of year to travel to hawaii for the best weather, lowest rates, top events, and fewest visitors.

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Best Times to travel to Hawaii?

Which month is best to go to hawaii, updated for travelers in 2024 through early 2025.

Whether you're looking to explore Hawaii's stunning beaches or discover more about the unique local culture, Hawaii is an amazing destination for any type of vacation. In this article, we'll explore the various months of the year and discuss which are the best times to visit Hawaii . We'll look at the climate, prices, and activities available in each month to help you decide when is the best time for you to experience the beautiful islands of Hawaii.

— article continued below —

2024 Hawaii Visitor Guides

Visiting Hawaii soon? Be sure to grab a copy of one of our updated Hawaii Visitor Guides .

~ Trusted by Millions of Hawaii Visitors Annually ~

Awini Trail beyond Pololu Valley on the Big Island

When's Best to Visit Hawaii TL;DR

Generally, the best time to visit Hawaii  for the most ideal  overall weather , lowest statewide rates , and the  fewest visitors on-island  is April and May during the spring and  September and October during the fall. Some refer to these times as Hawaii's 'off-season period' or 'shoulder months.'   In the summer, it will certainly be more crowded, so early June is best, and during the winter, though typically wetter, we recommend  January , especially if you want to see the humpback whales .

Hawaii Tips and details for each top month:

• April  - an excellent month, but avoid holidays when applicable
• May  - the best overall month for visitors, in our opinion. Great weather and reasonable rates
• September  - excellent month, great weather, perfect time for those seeking fewer visitors
• October  - great month, excellent selection of local festivals & events
• January - wetter than average , but an excellent time to go whale watching

Haven't decided which island(s) you're visiting? Take the quiz and read our companion article: Which Hawaii Island to Visit?

Honopu Valley on Kauai

If you're considering visiting Hawaii in the coming months, then we've got you covered...

• Check out our 'Best time to...' FAQ
• Hawaii Budget Calculator & Trip Cost Estimator
• TL;DR - skip directly to our  Best Month to Visit Hawaii Quiz →
• Explore Hawaii Hotel Rates by Season
• 2024 Hawaii Update: How the last few years  changed a lot...

Below we'll go over the latest on  each island's conditions , general  weather expectations , our  expected visitor demand , visitor  trends , and much more.

Kualoa Regional Park and Mokolii Island on Oahu

Ultimately, in our honest opinion - there isn't an inopportune time to go to Hawaii. Visiting Hawaii is a dream come true for many visitors, and who can blame them? The weather is fantastic nearly year-round, there's something to do for everyone , and the food is  phenomenal (try laulau , and malasadas , trust us!).

Below we'll cover more details about what makes this a great time, or not, to visit the Aloha State .

Totals by Island - 2022 vs 2023

Above, we've included an updated graphic comparing visitor arrivals to each major Hawaiian island for both 2022 and 2023. This bar chart provides a more accurate year-over-year comparison by aligning the time frames for both years. The impact of the wildfires on Maui is quite obvious in this chart. What we can say for certain is that  demand has softened some for early and mid 2024 to date, and the spring/summer 2024 travel season has seen fewer forward bookings than usual. Some experts predict this pattern to continue, especially on Maui for the foreseeable future.

What to Expect in 2024 through early 2025

Prices that have risen over the last two years will likely continue to  impact flight costs, hotel & accommodation rates, the costs associated with rental vehicles (Turo or standard rental agency), and other rates/fees due to increases in local electricity costs (Hawaii still generates a significant amount of its electricity from petroleum fuels). As of early 2024, Hawaii government leaders continue to debate additionally introducing a visitor or climate-impact fee that ranges from $25-$50 per traveler, but this has not been finalized yet. Increases to the accommodation tax, already the highest in the nation at up to 18%, are also not out of the question.

The devastating wildfires that affected West Maui in August 2023 are also continuing to impact Maui's economy at this time, and this will mean price swings, flight demand issues at times, and other factors to consider for those looking to visit the Valley Isle in the coming months. Lahaina remains closed and we urge all potential Maui visitors to be especially mindful and respectful in the islands as the community continues through this tragedy.

We'll keep you posted... this article will be updated accordingly as things change.

Nololu Trail Lookout in West Kauai

Estimated Monthly Visitors by Hawaii Island (2019 & 2022) - Click to enlarge

Hawaii 2024 Visitor Demand Forecast (Click to Enlarge)

How to Beat the Hawaii Crowds

When are periods of high and low demand.

To assist visitors with visualizing the periods of high and low demand in Hawaii, we've created the following  2024 Hawaii Demand Forecast . We'll also specifically discuss visiting during each month of the next year in more detail below. You can also now check out our initial  2025 Hawaii Demand Forecast   to see what we expect regarding high/low visitation periods in 2025.

These charts are an  approximate overview  of when we expect Hawaii to see increased visitation on-island, based on travel trends in Hawaii over the last several years (excluding 2020 & 2021) and considering recent events within Hawaii.

Hawaii Hotel Rates

Average accommodation prices.

As is to be expected, when more people are 'on-island' visiting the Hawaiian Islands - accommodation, rental, and flight costs will increase as well. To avoid the crowds and keep rates lower, you can always try visiting during non-peak visitation periods (i.e.; holidays and summer months are high-demand time periods). When preparing for your trip, the following graphic should help provide a general idea of the average rates during different times of the year. These rates fluctuate by island, but these figures still allow you to prepare accordingly.

The rates on the charts seen here are from a couple of years ago and will be updated once things settle from the pandemic, but generally should provide a good overview of pricing during various times of the year. Check out our new Hawaii Trip Cost Calculator tool for a more accurate estimate of exactly how much you can expect to spend on a Hawaii trip in 2024.

Generally, Oahu accommodation prices have remained relatively consistent with pre-pandemic rates heading into the winter/spring of 2024, but the outer-islands continue to see rate increases of 20-45% over pre-pandemic prices.

Hawaii Statewide Average Hotel Price Chart

Waikamoi Ridge Trail forest on Maui

Tunnels Beach on North Kauai

Kauai Average Lodging Price Chart

Oahu Average Lodging Price Chart

Maui Average Lodging Price Chart

Big Island Average Lodging Price Chart

Take our When to Visit Hawaii Quiz

Take our quick travel quiz to determine which month(s) are best for you based on your personal interests. Our quiz will generate a personalized page with suggestions tailored to you; including the top four months to travel to Hawaii!

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'Best Time to/for...' Hawaii FAQ

Seasonal events, when to book, finding the best rates, & more..., best time for good weather.

While Hawaii is a great destination year-round, the best opportunity for good weather exists during April, May, September, and October. As the tradewinds pick up over the winter months, so do the showers, and surf swells, particularly on the north/northeast (windward) shores of each island. The weather is warm year-round, with average highs in the winter of 78-82ºF (26-28ºC) and 83-88ºF (29-31ºC) in the summer months. Learn more about Hawaii weather .

Best Time to avoid crowds?

Hawaii has visitors during all months of the year, but typically, if you want to avoid the crowds , visit in either November (excluding Thanksgiving) or May for the quietest scene on the islands. Additionally, the first week of June, most of April (excluding ‘Golden Week’ and Easter), and much of September or October are great times to avoid the majority of visitors. Learn more about When to Travel to Hawaii .

Best Time to Book Hawaii Hotels?

As a rule of thumb, book early - no later than 2-3 months before you go! It's not uncommon for the Best Accommodations in Hawaii to get booked quickly, especially during the summer months over holidays. If you are planning to visit in either July or August and especially if you’re planning a visit around the Christmas/New Year’s holiday in late December, then we’d advise booking 4-6 months in advance to ensure you can reserve the room(s) you want. Be sure to check our Hotel Rates for the best prices and to compare all the top travel sites in one quick search.

Best Time to purchase Hawaii Airline Tickets?

As with accommodations, it’s best to typically book earlier than later. The best prices for Hawaii flights can vary dramatically throughout the year, depending on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, to find the best rates, we advise visitors to start searching for flights four months before your trip and to book no later than one month before your planned departure. Using this approach should provide you the best opportunity to find a good deal. If you are planning a visit during Thanksgiving, Christmas, or another holiday, we’d advise you book much earlier, as far in advance as possible to ensure the best price for what will undoubtedly be high-demand tickets during those peak periods.

Best Time to Find Deals & Discounts?

If you’re searching for the best rates when visiting Hawaii, we’d advise you to start your search for flights that arrive/depart in the middle of the week. Flying during the middle of the week will save you a lot of money, especially when flying from geographically further away. Generally, the most affordable rates for both flights and hotels in Hawaii will be primarily during the fall and somewhat so during the spring.

For accommodations, the months of September through November (sometimes into early December) offer the best hotel deals , again excluding Thanksgiving. In the spring, the best accommodation rates can be found from late March until early June (excluding the Easter holiday and Japan’s ‘Golden Week,’ in April).

For tours and activities, while many deals and specials will be ‘last-minute’ - the best discounts and specials run during the summer months (late May - July). Sign up for our Hawaii eNewsletter , a bi-weekly email containing travel tips, to also receive exclusive Hawaii discounts, deals, specials, and other promotional offers.

Best Time for Snorkeling, Swimming, and Diving?

Hawaii offers fantastic snorkeling, diving, and swimming opportunities for much of the year, but the best times are the summer months. During this period the surf will be less intense than during the winter, the water will be warmer, and the weather more cooperative - creating the perfect conditions for exploring in the water around the islands.

In our opinion, Maui snorkeling is the best you'll find in the entire state, followed by snorkeling on the Big Island . Both islands offer great snorkeling locations largely protected from surf and tradewinds on the leeward side of each island.

Best Time to ski or snowboard?

This isn’t a typo; you can ski and snowboard in Hawaii - though conditions will have to be just right. Mauna Kea , on the Big Island, means ‘white mountain’ in Hawaiian and its peaks are frequently found blanketed with a layer of snow. To provide yourself the best opportunity to partake in this winter sport, visit during February or March. Be sure to prepare accordingly, as there are limited facilities and you will need a 4x4 vehicle to reach the summit.

Best Time to take a cruise to/around Hawaii?

The best time to find a good bargain on cruises, including inter-island cruises, will be late November through mid-December. The best time for selection of boats will be in the spring (April/May) and fall (late August-October). Winter months are often more expensive (due to increased visitation), and typically wetter - but do offer the opportunity for whale watching (late November through early April).

Best Time to go Whale Watching?

Each winter, Humpback Whales migrate from Alaska to the warm waters surrounding Hawaii to mate and give birth to their calves. The best opportunities for whale watching will be from late November through mid-April; February and March often provide the best opportunities for sightings.

Best Time to get married/have a destination wedding?

As noted in the weather question, to avoid the wettest weather, try and plan your wedding for the summer months; anytime from late April until late October is usually a pretty safe bet. The middle of the summer will be warmer but is also typically the driest. Hurricane season runs from June through November as well, but storms are historically rare events. Ultimately, all factors considered - the best month for a destination wedding in Hawaii is in May.

Best Time for Hiking?

Hawaii offers some of the best hiking in the world if we may say so ourselves; a hiker could probably traverse Kauai’s trails alone for years and never get bored. As with most things in Hawaii, the hiking is excellent year-round, but the best months for hitting the trails are during the late spring and early fall (April, May, September, and October). The weather will be drier during these months, as well as throughout the entire summer, but unlike the summer, these spring/fall months will also be cooler. Be sure to take plenty of water and sunscreen before you head out, as the UV is very high in Hawaii year-round. If you hike during the winter months, be prepared for showers and trail conditions to potentially be messier / less maintained.

Best Time to visit Kilauea Volcano or go stargazing on Mauna Kea?

The Big Island’s Kilauea volcano has erupted almost continuously since 1983, sometimes more spectacularly than at other times. While there isn’t a ‘best time’ to witness something controlled by geologic forces, especially given the unpredictable nature of the volcano; if you’re planning to hike around the volcano or within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park , we’d advise the same as we did in our hiking question - visit during the spring or fall when it’s not at hot, and the weather will be cooperative. The summer will often be too warm to hike anywhere near the older black lava flows.

On the other hand, if you’re heading to the summit of Mauna Kea for some stargazing, then the summer months are best due to the same warmer temperatures. The peaks of Mauna Kea can become downright frigid at night, especially during the winter months. Remember, a full moon will offer the best opportunities for clear stargazing, and be sure to prepare accordingly before heading to the summit.

Best Time to go Fishing?

Fishing is another activity that can be partaken year-round, as different species of fish will bite at different times of the year and off the coast of each unique island. Summer tends to be one of the most popular periods for fishing - offering marlin (blue and yellowfin), skipjack, and ono. Fall and spring both offer good marlin and mahi-mahi fishing. Winter months are best for catching snapper, skipjack, tuna, and striped marlin. If you're visiting Maui, we recommend Fish Maui .

Best Time to Surf, Bodyboard, or Paddleboard(SUP)?

The best time for water activities like surfing and bodyboarding will be during the winter months. The biggest waves, for professionals, will be on the north shore. For the rest of us non-pros, the south coast is best during the winter. During the summer and fall (May - September), the waves will be calmer on the north shore of each island - so all skill levels can partake.

For other water sports like paddleboarding, we like the spring and fall the best, but this again can be a year-round activity if you select the right location(s) based on the time of year you visit.

Best Time for local festivals and events?

The best time to visit for island festivals and events depends on what you're looking for during your visit. ' Merrie Monarch ,' also known as the Olympics of Hula , is held in Hilo on the Big Island every April. Over on Oahu, you can catch the 'Waikiki Spam Jam,' also usually held in April. The ' Aloha Festivals ' takes place on all the islands each year in late September.

King Kamehameha Day (June 11) and Lei Day (May 1) also both offer various festivities, including impressive lei draping ceremonies of the King Kamehameha Statutes on both the Big Island and Oahu. Check our Hawaii events page for more information on what might be taking place during your visit.

Wailua Falls on Maui

Makalawena Beach on the Big Island

Hawaii Driving Tour Apps

Location-Based Applications

It's like having a tour guide in your car! Listen to stories, legends, history, and what to do and see, at the right place and time.

Shaka Guide uses your GPS to guide you to interesting places along the way on each of the main Hawaiian islands. Automatic audio tours with turn-by-turn directions mean all you need to do is to turn on the tour and drive. Check out driving Tours for Circle Island Oahu, North Shore Kauai, and Waimea Canyon & Na Pali Coast.

Island Driving Tours - App

Hawaii Flight Times

Airline Costs & Flight Rates

This section will be updated once more information is available and the airline industry has had a chance to return to some sense of normalcy. Currently, rates are still competitive airline to airline and demand fairly strong.

The recently announced (potential) merger between Hawaiian and Alaska airlines will have implications on Hawaii travel; we'll touch more on that as the merger process evolves.

Demand for Maui flights will vary as the island recovers from the devastating wildfires in August 2023.

As a general rule, we continue to advise travelers to book their flights well in advance of their trip.

Hawaii Weather

What to expect - rain & temperatures, hawaii weather summary, high/low temperatures & monthly precipitation.

*Climate Notes: Weather and Climate numbers are aggregated from trusted weather sources providing the monthly temperature and precipitation figures for each island's primary airport. These airports collectively provide a solid statewide estimate of weather conditions, but should not be taken as a "whole-island" forecast. Weather conditions can change dramatically within Hawaii and on each island due to the diverse topography, changes in elevation, the trade winds, and other unique island conditions. Temperatures are provided in Fahrenheit and Precipitation in Inches. Travelers can additionally view more information about each island: Kauai | Oahu | Maui | Big Island

Hawaii Statewide Weather (click to enlarge)

Hawaii weather can often be about as sporadic as it gets, and as such, forecasting the weather on Hawaii can be both daunting and confusing to first-time visitors. 

The tropical climate makes you quickly realize, 'this isn't the mainland,' and the environment takes some getting used to.

We encourage all visitors to check out our Hawaii Weather page, but here are a few quick pointers on Hawaii's weather to summarize:

• Read up on the forecasts at the  University of Hawaii Weather  before you visit and during your stay, as they have the best and most accurate estimates on the islands.
• Don't listen to the Weather Channel or watch the NOAA forecast graphs, of course, they'll predict rain - it technically rains almost every day in Hawaii... for about 10 minutes at a time.
• The only time it's really wet in Hawaii for a prolonged time is during the winter months, usually from November until March. But it's not a wash by any means.
• Temperatures at sea level usually run about 76-85 °F (24-29 °C)  all year-round. Temperatures at night are typically 12-18 °F (3-4 °C) cooler, but this can change dramatically depending on your altitude.
• Speaking of altitude, if you're planning to go up to higher elevations on either Maui or the Big Island, bring a small coat and long convertible pants. It can get very cold at the summit of the larger volcanoes!
• Hurricanes in Hawaii are historically rare events, but the last few seasons have seen increased tropical activity, and several tropical storms come close to the islands. If you're visiting during Hawaii Hurricane Season (June 1 - November 30th in the Central Pacific), then we advise you keep an eye on the tropics before your visit. Visitors may want to bookmark the Central Pacific Hurricane Center website for future reference.

 Ultimately, don't fret about the weather, it's Hawaii! Showers are typically short-lived and sporadic, and the temperature is almost always just right.

Hiking Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail on Oahu

Hawaiian Island Updates

Things to know for each island.

When planning your trip, there are a few things to keep in mind for each Hawaiian island, in addition to our Hawaii Essential Things to Know . Below we've made note of the most significant events and/or dates that may affect each island during your visit.

Best time to Visit Kauai

The best months to visit Kauai are in April , May , August , September , or October .  The weather on Kauai is consistently warm (highs in the mid-70's to mid-80's °F [24-29 °C]) year-round and visitors will enjoy the driest weather on the south shore and western portions of the island. Annual events include the May Day Festival (May) and Eo E Emalani I Alakai Festival (October) and the Chocolate & Coffee Festival (October).

For more information, be sure to read our Best Time to Visit Kauai article.

Best time to Visit Oahu

Oahu is a great island to visit at any time of the year. Still, if you especially want to dodge the crowds (on this most populous Hawaiian Island) - then the best months to visit Oahu are in May or later in the Fall (September and October are both great choices). Both times offer better rates on the island but still have fantastic weather conditions. Also, be sure to note that the last week of April is also 'Golden Week' in Japan - which can generate a large influx of Japanese visitors during that period. Other annual events on Oahu that draw international crowds include the Honolulu Marathon (December) and the Hawaii International Film Festival (October). 

For more information, be sure to read our Best Time to Visit Oahu article.

Best time to Visit Maui

The best months to visit Maui are in April , May , September , or October . If you’re visiting for whale watching, February is a good choice for peak season activity.  Travelers looking for the best deals on Maui accommodations should also seek out travel periods in the spring and fall, as they will be the cheapest months to visit due to decreased demand. As far as events,   Whale watching increases visitation starting in November and continues until the spring. Weatherwise, Maui temperatures remain consistently warm with daytime highs in the 75-85 °F [24-29 °C] range during the summer and winter, respectively. If you're heading to the summit of Haleakala, be sure to bundle up accordingly as it gets quite cold atop the volcano. 

For more information, be sure to read our Best Time to Visit Maui article.

Best time to Visit Big Island

The best months to visit the Big Island are May , August , or September for the best combination of great weather, low rates, and fewer visitors. Weather on the Big Island, like the other islands, stays consistently warm year-round. The main thing to note weather-wise is the differences between the Hilo (wetter and cooler eastern windward side) and Kailua-Kona (drier and warmer western leeward side). Annual events that generate an influx of visitors are the Merrie Monarch Festival (around Easter Sunday) and the Ironman competition (Kona side, typically in October). 

For more information, be sure to read our Best Time to Visit the Big Island of Hawaii  article.

In summary, as you prepare for your trip - remember to check local calendars for events, review the status of the parks and locations you'd like to visit, prepare and pack the proper travel supplies  for the island(s) you're visiting, and make sure not to worry too much about the weather; Hawaii is known as "paradise" for a good reason.

Ultimately, the Best Time to visit Hawaii is when you choose to go! If you still can't decide exactly when to go, no problem - try our quiz  linked below, and we'll suggest four months we think are best for you. We hope you have a great trip! Aloha!

Akaka Falls on the Big Island of Hawaii

Which Month to Visit?

Detailed monthly overview.

To assist visitors further, we've broken each month out in detail. If you want to find out quickly (TL;DR) which months are best for you - skip down to our Best Month to Visit Hawaii Quiz below.

2024 Hawaii Budget Calculator

Estimate the cost of your hawaii vacation.

Aloha, guest readers can calculate five (5) trip cost estimates for Hawaii each day. Rates included within this calculator are based on projected 2024 rates aggregated from current OTA pricing. Rates will be updated regularly.

HawaiiGuide Premium members can submit unlimited trip estimates each day.

Aloha, as a HawaiiGuide Premium member you can calculate unlimited Hawaii trip cost estimates each day. Mahalo for being a HawaiiGuide Premium member!

Currently, you have

Calculator overview.

This calculator is designed to provide both a comprehensive and regularly updated budget estimate for planning a trip to Hawaii. Currently, rates are applicable for 2024. Generally, these rates should provide a good estimate for any time period between 2024 and early 2025.

This budget tool considers all of the following:

• Hawaii Flight Costs including airfare from various destinations, baggage fees, etc.
• Hawaii Accommodation Costs including different lodging types, Hawaii's now roughly 18% accommodation tax, parking fees (if applicable), which island you're staying on, etc.
• Hawaii Vehicle Rental Costs including various types of vehicles, fuel costs, and number of miles driven daily.
• Additional Costs including dining + gratuity, visitor fees to parks, etc., and Hawaii Tours and Activity costs.

Hawaii Flight Costs

First, consider your flight costs to Hawaii. Select your departure location, update the number of travelers (if applicable), and check whether you expect to pay baggage fees, below.

Hawaii Accommodation Costs

Next, let us know which island you'll be visiting (select the primary island if you're visiting more than one), select a lodging type/classification, update the number of nights (default is set to a week), update the number or rooms (if applicable), and check whether you expect to pay parking fees (common in more densely populated areas on Oahu and/or Maui).

Statewide Rate : 18%

Hawaii Car Rental Costs

Now, let's consider your vehicle rental costs (if applicable). If you're not renting a car, select 'No Car,' but for most visitors, we highly recommend a rental. Update the number of days (which will default to +1 day more than you selected in accommodation nights) and choose an estimate for your mileage each day. If you're not sure, we recommend you leave the default option selected.

If you select 'No Car' this will be zeroed out by default!

Other Hawaii Costs

Finally, consider a few last potential costs and fees for your trip. There's dining (we've included gratuity in the estimates), and we've selected all three meal options by default. Then, there are potential fees for parks and other attractions, which are a relatively new factor to now consider when estimating a Hawaii budget; select the applicable options below. Finally, select the amount, if any, you expect to spend on Hawaii Tours and/or commercial Activities. Be sure to update the number of people dining and people the fees/tours apply to if applicable; these numbers will default to the same number of people you selected previously for this trip estimate.

Email + Expected Travel Dates

We'll email you a copy of your results to this email address for your records.

You may not have exact dates yet, but provide a rough guess or estimate below. This will help us refine the calculator and provide more accurate data throughout the year. Mahalo!

Final Question

If you're visiting another island, please let us know below. This will not affect the estimate or rate you're provided. This is for research and calculator improvement purposes only. Mahalo!

- Click To Estimate Trip Cost -

Typical hawaii visitor timeline.

Approximate Travel Planning Timeline for a Hawaii trip

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Recommended hawaii tours, terms of use & disclosures.

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

Article Published/Updated: 03-18-2024

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Best trip ever: A Hawaii woman is $1M richer after hitting the jackpot in Vegas

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - A Hawaii woman is $1 million richer after a trip to Las Vegas.

The California Hotel and Casino posted that the woman hit the jackpot while playing Wheel of Fortune.

In a post on Instagram, the Cal wrote that the guest had an “unforgettable weekend” after a $10 bet, taking home more than $1 million.

Big congratulations to the lucky winner.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by California Casino (@thecalcasino)

Copyright 2024 Hawaii News Now. All rights reserved.

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The Best Places To Visit In Hawaii For First-Timers

Save money on your next flight

Skyscanner is the world’s leading flight search engine, helping you find the cheapest flights to destinations all over the world.

If you’re planning your first-ever trip to Hawaii, figuring out where to go can feel overwhelming with so many islands and options. But we’ll help narrow it down to the top destinations you shouldn’t miss for an incredible Hawaiian getaway.

If short on time, be sure to see Oahu’s famous Waikiki Beach, take in Maui’s Road to Hana, and visit Volcanoes National Park on Hawaii’s Big Island for a quick taste of the top sights.

In this guide we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan your ideal itinerary, including the top beaches, natural wonders, historical and cultural sites, and activities across the most popular islands for first-time Hawaii visitors.

We’ll also offer sample one week itineraries to help you make the most of your vacation.

Start on Oahu for Iconic Hawaiian Sights

Waikiki beach.

Known for its pristine sand and prime surfing, Waikiki Beach is arguably Oahu’s most famous stretch of coastline. Over 2 miles long with views of Diamond Head crater, this iconic beach offers countless water activities like outrigger canoeing, catamaran rides, and snorkeling tours to see sea turtles and tropical fish.

When you’re ready for land, browse the high-end stores and dine at oceanfront restaurants in the adjacent Waikiki neighborhood. Don’t miss the free hula shows at the beach’s Duke Kahanamoku statue honoring Hawaii’s famous Olympic swimmer.

Pearl Harbor & USS Arizona Memorial

Pay tribute to the lives lost in the 1941 Pearl Harbor attack at the USS Arizona Memorial . Managed by the National Park Service, this somber site lets you see the submerged wreckage of the USS Arizona battleship.

Combine it with the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum and Battleship Missouri Memorial for a full perspective on the pivotal event that brought the U.S. into WWII. Ferry rides to the memorial depart every 15 minutes from the visitor center.

Hike Diamond Head Crater

A reminder of Oahu’s volcanic origins, iconic Diamond Head is a must-do hike offering sweeping panoramas. The steep 1.6-mile round trip pathway winds through tunnel openings and up staircases to the crater’s 761-foot summit overlooking Waikiki and downtown Honolulu.

Go early to beat the heat on this mostly exposed hike, packing plenty of water. If visiting with kids, be prepared to assist them on the climb’s steeper sections.

Check Out the North Shore’s World-Famous Surf

From October through March, massive swells roll onto Oahu’s famed North Shore , creating some of the planet’s best big wave surfing. Catch pros tackling legendary breaks like Pipeline, Sunset Beach, and Waimea Bay along the coastline dubbed the “Seven Mile Miracle.” When the waves mellow in summer, the North Shore transforms into a mecca for snorkelers and sea turtle viewers at spots like Shark’s Cove and Three Tables Beach.

Don’t skip the small surf towns like Haleiwa filled with shops selling surf gear and shave ice.

Relax and Recharge on Maui

As the second largest Hawaiian island, Maui is a magical place with lush rainforests, breathtaking waterfalls, stunning beaches, historic towns, and incredible whale watching. It’s the perfect destination to relax, rejuvenate, and indulge in the island life.

Take the Road to Hana

The spectacular Road to Hana winds along Maui’s northern coast for 64 miles passing waterfalls, swimming holes, scenic outlooks, hiking trails, and the iconic red sands of Kaihalulu Beach. This full-day adventure lets you experience the unspoiled beauty of east Maui with stops like the Haleakala National Park and the Seven Sacred Pools.

Just take it slow and watch for one-lane bridges along the way.

Explore Haleakala National Park

Haleakala National Park protects east Maui’s towering volcano rising over 10,000 feet high. Witness a breathtaking sunrise from the summit then hike trails through out-of-this-world landscapes dotted with silversword plants found nowhere else on Earth.

Or immerse yourself in the lush rainforest and waterfalls of Kipahulu near the famous Ohe’o Gulch with the Seven Sacred Pools.

Visit Secret Black Sand Beaches on the Way to Hana

Most visitors only experience the Road to Hana one way, but the drive in reverse offers several opportunities to discover beaches few people ever see. Waianapanapa State Park hides striking black sands between verdant cliffs while secluded Koki Beach requires a short hike through an enchanting bamboo forest.

And Wai’anapanapa’s legendary lava tube caves make for a memorable detour before stopping at standout sights on your return trip.

Check out the Whale Watching

Each winter between December to April, thousands of gentle humpback whales migrate to Maui from Alaska to breed, calve, and nurse their young. According to the Maui Whale Festival , Maui sees the most whale sightings of all the Hawaiian Islands with over 12,000 humpbacks spotted in 2022.

Grab some binoculars and scout for their tails, fins, and blows from scenic lookouts or hop on a whale watching cruise departing regularly from Lahaina and Ma’alaea harbors.

See Volcanic Sights on the Big Island

Marvel at volcanoes national park.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a must-see for those making their first trip to Hawaii. Spanning over 300,000 acres, this park is home to the world’s most active volcanoes including Kilauea and Mauna Loa.

Visitors can drive the scenic Crater Rim Drive and hike across volcanic landscapes down to where flowing lava spills into the ocean. According to the National Park Service, “even today, few destinations feel as dynamic as the landscape here”.

It is undoubtedly a geological and ecological wonder to marvel at.

See the Lava Flowing into the Ocean at Night

One of Hawaii’s most mesmerizing sights is seeing bright red lava meet the sea at night. On a moonlit evening, visitors can witness lava streams flowing from Kilauea volcano into the Pacific Ocean . The sight of the 2,000°F molten rock oozing into the water, setting off bursts of steam, and forming smoldering black ledges is simply amazing to behold.

Relax on the Black Sand Beaches

Black sand beaches formed from lava are prevalent on the Big Island. A standout is Punaluʻu Beach near Naʻalehu town. Its jet black sands and gentle waves make it a peaceful spot to unwind. Green sea turtles can also be seen basking on the beach.

For stunning views, head to Pololū Valley Lookout to gaze upon the steep cliffs dropping to a secluded black sand beach.

Check out the Waterfalls in Waipio Valley

Waipio Valley is home to many cascading waterfalls including the magnificent Hiʻilawe Falls dropping over 1,200 feet. Guided tours take visitors down into the valley where taro fields, horses and the area’s falls come into stunning view.

According to Hawaii Revealed guidebook, “Waipio Valley on the Hamakua Coast offers some of Hawaii’s most beautiful waterfall scenery”. It’s easy to lose track of time while taking in the serenity and beauty here.

One Week Sample Itinerary

Days 1-3: oahu highlights.

No trip to Hawaii is complete without visiting Oahu. Spend your first three days exploring this vibrant island’s gorgeous beaches, iconic landmarks, and captivating culture. Stay in Waikiki to be close to top attractions like Waikiki Beach , Diamond Head State Monument , Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial , the Polynesian Cultural Center , and great shopping and dining on Kalakaua Avenue .

Must-see stops include snorkeling at Hanauma Bay , one of Oahu’s most spectacular nature preserves, hiking up the ridge of the crater at Diamond Head for sweeping views, learning about World War II history at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center and Museum , exploring Polynesian villages and experiencing dances and music at the Polynesian Cultural Center , and strolling down Waikiki’s famous beach lined with hotels, shops and restaurants.

Be sure to sample local flavors like fresh pineapple, shrimp trucks and shave ice!

Days 4-6: Road to Hana & Haleakala National Park

Next, fly over to Maui and spend three days taking in the island’s lush rainforests, breathtaking waterfalls and winding coastal vistas along the renowned Road to Hana . Stay in Paia or Hana towns to be closest to the sights.

The narrow, twisting Hana Highway has over 600 curves and 59 bridges , including majestic manmade and natural wonders. Must-see Road to Hana stops include the Twin Falls , Waikamoi Ridge Trail , Hana Lava Tube , Wailua Falls , Pools of Oheo , and red sand beach at Kaihalulu .

Cap off your time in Maui with the drive to the otherworldly summit of Haleakala in Haleakala National Park to watch a dazzling sunrise or sunset. At 10,000 feet elevation, the volcanic crater offers out-of-this world panoramic views.

Keep an eye out for the unique Haleakala silver sword plant found nowhere else!

Day 7: Volcanoes National Park

On your last day, take a quick flight to Hawaii’s Big Island. Spend it exploring the raw volcanic landscape in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to walk across steaming craters and see Madame Pele’s lurking lava.

Don’t miss seeing the red glow at the Halema’uma’u crater at night, admiring the rainbow colored volcanic glass at Keanakāko’i Crater , hiking through the fern and ohia tree forest on the Kilauea Iki Trail , and learning about Hawaiian mythology and culture at the Jaggar Museum .

For a once-in-a-lifetime experience to top off your trip, consider taking a helicopter tour for a bird’s eye view flight over active volcanoes and lava flows. Seeing Hawaii’s geothermal phenomenon from the sky offers a jaw-dropping perspective you’ll never forget!

With so much natural beauty, culture, history, beaches, and adventure, Hawaii offers something for all interests and styles of travel. Use our guide and sample itineraries to help plan out your stops for an incredible first visit you’ll never forget.

The hardest part will just be choosing which islands and sights to see when you undoubtedly start planning your return trip as soon as you get home!

Sharing is caring!

Jane Smith is a Hawaii resident and author born and raised on the island of Oahu. Her Hawaiian heritage shines through in her writing, infusing it with the Aloha spirit and local flavor.

Jane draws inspiration from the tropical island lifestyle - outrigger canoeing at sunrise, beach picnics, hiking to hidden waterfalls. Her works immerse readers in the beauty and culture of Hawaii.

An avid surfer since childhood, Jane often wakes early to catch waves along the North Shore. She also enjoys practicing Hawaiian crafts like lei-making, lauhala weaving, and kapa cloth printing.

When not writing or adventuring outdoors, you can find Jane sipping mai tais at the local tiki bar, listening to ukulele music at the night market, or cooking up a big pot of stew at home.

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USA TODAY 10Best

10 best marathons in the United States for 2024

Best Marathon (2024) April 3, 2024

The United States hosts around 1,000 marathons every year, the largest of which see tens of thousands of endurance runners crossing the finish line and conquering the grueling 26.2-mile distance.

To find the top races, USA TODAY 10Best editors and a panel of experts made their nominations, then readers voted for their favorites. Here are the 10 best marathons across the nation for 2024.

No. 10: Hatfield McCoy Marathon - Williamson, West Virginia

The longest-running marathon in the states of Kentucky and West Virginia is the popular Hatfield McCoy Marathon, which traverses both states on its journey. Named after the infamous Hatfield-McCoy feud, the challenging course takes runners through the rugged and beautiful Appalachian Mountains and includes both road and trail sections. 

No. 9: Honolulu Marathon - Honolulu, Hawaii

After New York, Chicago, and Boston, this is the fourth largest marathon in the United States. It's tropically scenic and warm, and there's no time limit, so everyone is allowed to finish, making it a great first-time marathon race. The course runs through downtown Honolulu and its famed Christmas lights, through Waikiki and up around Diamond Head, to a stunning oceanside finish in Kapiolani Park. The post-race treats are also legendary, with everyone getting fresh Hawaiian malasadas (scrumptious local versions of donuts dusted with sugar).

No. 8: Bank of America Chicago Marathon - Chicago, Illinois

One of the six World Marathon Majors, the Bank of America Chicago Marathon is typically held on the second Sunday in October. The flat, fast course takes runners past iconic Chicago landmarks on its journey through 29 neighborhoods, starting and finishing in Grant Park. This popular race attracts more than a million spectators each year.

No. 7: Shiprock Marathon - Shiprock, New Mexico

Held the first weekend of May, the Shiprock Marathon takes runners through the rugged desert landscapes of the Navajo Nation. Along the way, participants enjoy a variety of live music to motivate runners, adding to this unique and memorable running experience. 

No. 6: CNO Financial Indianapolis Monumental Marathon - Indianapolis, Indiana

CNO Financial Indianapolis Monumental Marathon is a good qualifying event, as the USATF-certified course is flat and fast. You'll run through the heart of Indianapolis' historic neighborhoods and enjoy Hoosier hospitality before finishing near the Indiana State House. With a November date, you'll get crisp fall weather, and the final stretch is all downhill, so this is a great marathon for first-time long-distance aspirants. 

No. 5: Coast Guard Marathon - Elizabeth City, North Carolina

If you've ever wanted a running tour of a military base, this one's for you. The Coast Guard Marathon runs through the U.S. Coast Guard Base Elizabeth City, along the Pasquotank riverfront, and even takes participants on the runway and around one of the last standing WWII airship hangars. Registration is open to both military personnel and civilians. 

No. 4: Big Sur International Marathon - Big Sur, California

Famed for its stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged coastline, and picturesque scenery, the Big Sur International Marathon is a favorite among runners and nature lovers alike. In addition to breathtaking vistas, this challenging course features significant elevation changes on its route from Big Sur, north along Highway 1, to the finish line in Carmel. The USATF-certified course has been called “one of the jewels of American running.”

No. 3: Marine Corps Marathon - Arlington, Virginia

Known as "The People's Marathon," the Marine Corps Marathon honors the dedication and sacrifice of the United States Armed Forces. The race is known for its rich history and is one of the largest marathons in the world. With a course that winds through the streets of Arlington, Virginia, and Washington, D.C., the route passes many of the area's famous landmarks and monuments, including the National Mall and the U.S. Capitol.

No. 2: New York City Marathon - New York City, New York

Known for its enthusiastic crowd support, the famous New York City Marathon embodies the spirit and energy of the city where it takes place. A celebration of diversity and inclusivity, runners from all over the world come together to participate in this iconic event. The course takes runners through all five boroughs of the city, starting in Staten Island and finishing in Central Park. Along the way, runners pass by many of the city's famous landmarks, including the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, the Empire State Building, and Times Square.

No. 1: Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon - Cincinnati, Ohio

The Flying Pig Marathon is loved by runners, and for good reason. It's fun, with pig motifs used everywhere, from the "pig pen" corrals where different speed groups are segregated, to crossing the "finish swine" and attending the post-race party with pizza and beer. The course is also super attractive, albeit hilly, running through the most diverse and scenic neighborhoods of Cincinnati and surrounding townships, and alongside the Ohio River. Finishers get medals and mylar blankets to go with all the post-pig party refreshments. 

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

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

The Experts

Amy bushatz.

Amy Bushatz is the host and producer of the  Humans...   Read More

Amy Bushatz is the host and producer of the  Humans Outside podcast. A news reporter and editor based in Palmer, Alaska, Amy spends her time ultra running and recreating in the Alaskan wilderness, volunteering in her small town and experiencing everything Alaska has to offer. Her work on outdoors, travel and fitness has appeared in the Washington Post, Runner's World and Market Watch.  Find her at Humans Outside on Instagram. 

Brittany Vermeer

Brittany (Bevis) Vermeer  is a writer,...   Read More

Brittany (Bevis) Vermeer  is a writer, photographer, and media specialist with 15+ years of experience in the world of sports journalism. She and her husband are triathletes who live in Florida, and she chronicles their multisport adventures on her blog, Triple Threat Life.  

Dave Thompson

Dave is an international travel writer and founder...   Read More

Dave is an international travel writer and founder of Dave’s Travel Corner, a premier travel resource since 1996. He is well-traveled (180 countries & territories); while on the road he enjoys the outdoors, backpacking, mountain climbing, meeting people, and experiencing other cultures.   In 2006, he conceived the  Napa Wine Project , a challenging endeavor to visit, taste with and extensively write about every winery in Napa Valley, California. He has now completed 1,100+ visits and written reviews of Napa wineries & producers.

Hilary Topper

Hilary JM Topper, MPA, is a renowned author and...   Read More

Hilary JM Topper, MPA, is a renowned author and entrepreneur. She has penned two successful books on social media marketing, “Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Social Media,” published in 2008, and "Branding in a Digital World,” first published in 2019 and updated in 2023. She also wrote a compelling memoir/self-help book, "From Couch Potato to Endurance Athlete," published by Meyer & Meyer Sports in 2022. In addition to her literary achievements, Hilary serves as the CEO of HJMT Public Relations Inc., and the president of HJMT Media Company LLC. Under her leadership, these companies produce two engaging blogs – NY Lifestyle Blog (HilaryTopper.com) and  ATriathletesDiary.com . Beyond her blogging endeavors, Hilary hosts two podcasts, "Hilary Topper on Air" and "Hilary Topper on Air: The Endurance Sports Edition." Her expertise in digital communications extends to education, where she imparts her knowledge as an adjunct professor at Hofstra University. As an influencer on social media, Hilary works with brands to promote their products on platforms like Instagram. Currently, she is working on her fourth book. 

Kayla Jeter

Kayla Jeter  is a Chicago-based athlete and...   Read More

Kayla Jeter  is a Chicago-based athlete and lululemon ambassador, community consultant, and wellness coach helping professional clients and community members design sustainable healthier lifestyles as a trained behavior change coach and certified functional strength coach. Her expertise has been featured on SHAPE, well + good, ESSENCE, and SELF. For almost a decade, Kayla has leveraged digital content as a coaching tool, community connector, and empowerment of shared human experiences on Instagram , TikTok (@fitandfullbykayla), and Pinterest reaching over 110,000 followers worldwide. Kayla is on a mission to disrupt + diversify homogenous spaces in sports and the wellness industry and in doing so, expand possibilities for BIPOC runners to see themselves not only surviving but thriving in these spaces. Through her annual virtual 100MilesofSummer challenge, she empowers over 260,000 humans of all ages and fitness levels around the world to commit to better health through movement by logging 100 miles walking, jogging, running or rolling starting May 1st to August 31st for the last six years. Kayla is a Cleveland, Ohio native who was exposed to different communities and cultures while playing volleyball at the University of Tennessee, professionally in Finland, and coaching at the University of Cincinnati. After the loss of her father to a sudden heart attack in 2016 and the slow decline of her mother to cancer in 2019, Kayla made it her mission to help others understand the necessity of everyday self-care and stress management. Kayla is a 3x World Marathon Major finisher (all in 2023) and will be running her first ultramarathon in March 2024 with lululemon; FURTHER. the lululemon FURTHER feat is a 6-day race focused on supporting + elevating women in ultramarathon running.

Kelly Roberts

Head coach and creator of the Badass Lady...   Read More

Head coach and creator of the Badass Lady Gang, Kelly Roberts’ pre-BALG fitness routine consisted mostly of struggling through the elliptical and trying to shrink her body. It wasn’t until hitting post-college life, poised with a theatre degree, student loans, and the onset of panic, that she found running. Running forced Kelly to ditch perfectionism and stomp out fear of failure. Viral selfies from the NYC half marathon struck a chord with women who could relate to the struggle, and soon the global women’s running community Badass Lady Gang was born. BALG is about enjoying life with a side of running. Kelly’s philosophy measures success by confidence gained, not pounds lost. If you aren’t having fun, it’s time to pivot. Kelly is an RRCA certified coach and has completed Dr. Stacy Sims ‘Women Are Not Small Men’ certification course helping coaches better serve their female athletes. Over the years Kelly has coached thousands of women from brand new runners to those chasing Boston marathon qualifying times, appeared on the cover of Women’s Running Magazine, and created a worldwide body image empowerment movement called the Sports Bra Squad. She lives in Brooklyn, New York.

Laura Norris

Laura Norris is the owner and coach...   Read More

Laura Norris is the owner and coach behind Laura Norris Running. She has a Master of Science in Applied Exercise Science, is a certified personal trainer through the National Strength and Conditioning Association, a certified sports nutritionist through the International Society of Sport Nutrition, and a certified running coach through RRCA and VDOT. She practices evidence-based coaching blended with a holistic treatment of the athlete as an individual. In her 7+ years of coaching, she's coached over 400 runners, from first-time racers to podium finishers. Her personal bests include a 1:34 half marathon and 3:29 marathon. She lives in Colorado with her husband, daughter, and two dogs. 

Lily Fang is a marathoner and blogger at  Imperfect...   Read More

Lily Fang is a marathoner and blogger at  Imperfect Idealist, where she writes race reviews, GPS watch comparisons, and conscious lifestyle content. She's done 7 marathons and 9 half marathons across the US and Europe, as well as a 50k and a few triathlons. You can follow her running and travel adventures on  Strava  and  Instagram .

Marnie Kunz

Marnie Kunz is a Brooklyn-based fitness trainer,...   Read More

Marnie Kunz is a Brooklyn-based fitness trainer, running coach, and blogger and the founder of  Runstreet.com . She loves to participate in fun and unique running events around NYC. You can follow her running adventures on the  Runstreet blog  and  @Runstreet on Instagram . 

Zach Nehr is a freelance writer, professional...   Read More

Zach Nehr is a freelance writer, professional cyclist, and the owner of ZNehr Coaching . He writes about everything related to bikes and endurance sports, from product reviews and advertorials to feature articles and pro data analytics. You can find Zach’s articles in Cyclingnews, Outside, Velo, TrainingPeaks, and more. You can follow Zach on Instagram  and  LinkedIn .

10Best Editors

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

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

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Alex Jones Vacations at “Ritzy” Kauai Resort as Bankruptcy Proceedings Advance

By Eve Batey

Conspiracy and misinformation-spreading broadcaster Alex Jones reached a whole new audience last week, when The Truth vs. Alex Jones made its debut on HBO and Max. 

The documentary about the lawsuits against the InfoWars host featured heartbreaking interviews with those who'd experienced threats and harm over his false claims that the 2012 mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School had been staged, and that the families of the 26 people—mostly children—who'd been killed were all actors. But as opposed to capitalizing on the increased attention, Jones apparently left his Austin, Texas base for Hawaii this week, where TMZ says he was spotted at an upscale hotel on the island of Kauai.

Jones filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in 2022 after judges in Connecticut and Texas courtrooms ordered him to pay over $1.1 billion in damages to the families he'd repeatedly defamed on his website and in audio and video broadcasts. As is seen in the recently released documentary , Jones claimed in both courtrooms that he had no money, and that his media and supplement sales businesses were also insolvent. Jones's company, Free Speech Systems LLC, filed for bankruptcy five months before Jones declared personal bankruptcy; the two cases were combined by officials in an effort to expedite payment to creditors including the grieving families. Thus far, none of the families have received a single payment.

In late 2023, the New York Times reported that the bankruptcy case had entered its final stretch, with representatives for Jones and for the families trading settlement proposals. In late February, the families approved a plan to liquidate all of Jones's assets. According to Bloomberg , the proposal would “methodically liquidate and redistribute his property and cash, while preserving potential legal actions against parties affiliated with Jones and his Infowars program.”

For his part, Jones is asking that the families instead “allow him to reorganize by preserving parts of his media empire and paying the group at least $5.5 million a year over 10 years.” According to the Associated Press , the host is hoping to collect an annual salary of $520,000 as part of his proposed plan, claiming the company “the company expects to sell more than $30 million a year in dietary supplements.” 

As part of Jones's proposal, a new chief operating officer at his company would be paid $520,000 per year, with “$560,000 to nearly $1.3 million per year in executive incentives and another $352,000 to $677,000 in employee bonuses annually.” Other salaries for Free Speech employees would total as much as $940,000, with another $1 million per year allotted to contract workers.

“I’m officially out of money, personally,” the AP quotes Jones as saying on Infowars . “It’s all going to be filed. It’s all going to be public. And you will see that Alex Jones has almost no cash.”

It all sounds very stressful, especially since—with the release of The Truth vs. Alex Jones —more people than ever before are seeing the media mogul in action. Perhaps that's why Jones headed to Hawaii, where he was, as a source reportedly told TMZ, “chillin' by the pool and downing drinks.” 

According to the website, he was at the resort with his wife, Austin yoga instructor Erika Wulff Jones . “They didn't appear to have any other family or friends hanging with them,” TMZ reports, saying that the host mainly “hung around the hotel pool and bar area.” 

But while Jones was vacationing, his bankruptcy case moved ever so slightly forward. According to Bloomberg , the trustee in the bankruptcy case has requested a judicial mediator to finalize the bankruptcy this month.

“These cases have been on file for more than a year,” trustee Melissa Haselden said. “For a variety of reasons, a resolution of these cases needs to be reached in short order.”

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