9 day trip to hawaii

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• Our 9 Days In Hawaii Amidst Magical Landscapes Was Nothing Less Than A Paradise

27 Mar 2023

“Hawaii is not a state of mind, but a state of grace- Paul Theroux”

One of the lauded vacation spots, Hawaii is home to mesmerizing beaches, oceans, coastline, volcanoes, palm trees, and scintillating greenery. It is a chain of many islands and each one is famous for its own flavor, landscapes, vibes, and experiences. Whether holidaymakers want to indulge in exciting activities or just relax by the pristine beaches & savor some Hawaiian delicacies, this place makes a perfect abode for all. Islands like Oahu, Maui, Kauai, Hawaiian island, Molokai are some of the renowned spots that offer vacationers countless ways to enjoy their vacation. There are various places to travel in Hawaii that offers travelers to indulge in a range of wonderful activities. Immensely charmed by the beauty of this tropical paradise, Debanjan decided to spend 9 days in Hawaii with his better half. Check out how they had wonderful experiences with the help of TravelTriangle team.

Being avid travelers, my wife and I go on an International at least once in a year. So this time we thought to pamper ourselves in the cozy vibes of Hawaii. Looking for a travel organizer was a no brainer for us as we’ve already had one wonderful trip with TravelTriangle. Just like the first one, this trip also gave us a plethora of memories. Here I am jotting down some of the best experiences that we had on our spectacular Hawaiian trip.

Table Of Content

• 9 Days In Hawaii Trip Details
• Hawaii 9 day Itinerary

Hawaii Weather In June

• Best Experiences on Our Hawaii Trip

Shopping In Hawaii

Best hawaiin restaurants, hawaii hotels, dos & don’ts in hawaii, what to pack for hawaii.

• Tips For Future Travelers

Our Experience With TravelTriangle

• Common Queries

Details Of Our Blissful 9 Days In Hawaii Trip

Trip Type: Romantic Trip Cost: INR 367500 Duration: 9 Days Inclusions: Airfare, Taxes, Airport Transfer, Sightseeing Exclusions: Lunch, Dinner, Visa, Personal Expenses, Insurance

A Sneak Peek Into Our Hawaii 9 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Hotel Check-in & Explore City Day 2: Explore City Own Day 3: Explore City Own Day 4: Hotel Check-in & Explore City Own Day 5: Enjoying a road trip to Hana Day 6: Whale watching in Maui Day 7: Hotel Check-in & Explore City Own Day 8: Hotel Check out

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The temperature in Hawaii is quite consistent with just slight changes throughout the year. We visited this destination in the month of December when the temperature was about 24-25° C. Also, the temperature would drop down to 10.6° C in the night time. Needless to say, the weather was extremely pleasant and we found that it is the best time to visit Hawaii .

Best Experiences That Took Our Hawaii Trip To A Next Level

While soaking up the picturesque sites and spending 9 days in Hawaii, we made most of our vacation. Here are some of the best experiences that will surely make you plan your Hawaii trip!

1. Maui: Enjoying Dolphin Cruise

The first day of our Hawaii itinerary 9 days scheduled took us to Maui. Our splendid joyride took off with a 2-hour whale watching in Maui. Our excursion started with the narration from our caption about the safety measures and the majestic experiences that we were going to have. Even though we could not witness the whales or dolphins, we thoroughly enjoyed our cruise experience. Especially the stunning views while traveling along Maui’s exquisite coastline was indeed a breathtaking experience. We believe that going on a cruise One of the best things to do in Hawaii.

2. Kaanapali Beach And Waikiki Beach: Two Dreamy Lands

Our main goal was to make the most of the Hawaii itinerary 9 days schedule and to just relax and keep all our stress at bay. We did the same mostly by spending a tranquil time at the beaches that mainly included Kaanapali Beach and Waikiki Beach. If one wants to try water activities in Hawaii, then Kaanapali Beach is the best option. Here, vacationers can try hands at snorkeling and witness the magical marine life. Apart from this, Waikiki Beach, which is one of the best beaches in Hawaii had crystal clear water where swimming was a delight. Although it was a bit crowded, we managed to have a wonderful and cozy time with each other.

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3. The 9 Seater Flight: An Iconic Experience!

Without a shred of doubt, the island hopping in a plane from Ohio to Maui was the real highlight of our entire trip. The plane had only 9 seats and each seat was a window and an aisle seat. Witnessing the beauty of this place with a birds eye view was indeed one-of-a-kind experience for both of us. All-in-all we had a very unique experience flying on Mokulele Airlines. We would definitely go for it on our next Hawaii trip .

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Shopping in Hawaii is indeed a refreshing experience. This place offers various intriguing things that one can bring home as souvenirs. Being not much of shopaholics, we actually didn’t have a shopping spree. But one thing we shopped in abundance was “Macadamia Nuts”. Since these are locally produced, the markets are replete with these yummies. Additionally, some of the other things which we thought one could buy are Lei necklaces, Hawaiian quilt, Loa wood products, Hawaiian shirts, and many more.

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Our dining experiences of each day from the Hawaii itinerary 9 days were next to perfection. We tried out several kinds of delicacies in various restaurants and cafes and noticed that the quantity of food was quite much for two persons. As a reason for that, we couldn’t go for too many options, nevertheless we extremely enjoy or dining experiences. We especially enjoyed gorging on the original cheesecake from “The Cheesecake Factory”. For people having a sweet tooth, pineapple ice creams from Dole Plantation is a must try. Lappert’s is also another eatery where we savored a variety of ice creams. Honestly, the food in Hawaii added great value to our 9 days in Hawaii trip.

Here’s What To Expect From A Honeymoon In Hawaii

One of the USPs of our vacation was the stay in the hotels. Our first stay was at Hyatt Place Waikiki Beach which was one of the best accommodations we’ve ever come across. Be it the facilities, the staff services or the scintillating ocean views, everything this was perfect here. Next, we stayed at Kaanapali Beach Club where the rooms were quite spacious and especially the location was something that impressed us to a great extent. Courtyard Waikiki Beach where we spent the last day featured spacious rooms but there everything was marvelously organized and special heed was paid to the cleanliness as well. Frankly, all these accommodation options offered us utter relaxation. Hotels in Hawaii

• Find a few activities that might interest you and enjoy.
• Check the weather conditions for your traveling dates and pack accordingly.
• Smile at strangers. The more, the better. You will get to know some really interesting people that way.

Don’ts

• Don’t take surf warnings lightly.
• Don’t eat out at all times as it is expensive and not really healthy.
• Don’t forget to try Hawaiian food. 
• Hiking shoes
• Tank tops & t-shirts
• A light jacket
• A cap or hat

Some Handy Tips For Future Travelers

• Use lots of sunscreen and moisturizer to stay away from sun tan and sunburn
• Keep scarves, shades, and caps handy
• Don’t forget to try various water sports
• Take out at least 10 days to visit this tropical wonderland
• Take deet-free mosquito wristbands or insect repellant to avoid insect bites

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Since it was our second trip with TravelTriangle, we already knew this would be a fantastic one like our first Australian trip with TT. We both are highly impressed with services provided by our travel consultant and the agent. Everything was synchronized commendable and we actually didn’t have to worry about anything. We did not expect that our Hawaii travel would be this much dazzling.

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The pristine waters of scintillating beaches, mesmerizing views, and the tranquil vibe of Hawaii captivated vacationers from all over the world. While spending 9 days in Hawaii, Debanjan along & his beloved wife were able to have the best experience. If you also got enchanted by their wonderful experiences, then plan your vacay & travel to Hawaii with TravelTriangle and loosen up yourself in the lap of nature.

Queries You Might Have On Your Hawaii Trip

What is the ideal duration to visit Hawaii?

We believe that a Hawaiian vacation is incomplete if you don’t spend at least 10 days. There is so much to explore here and even if you are not much interested in activities, you can simply relax by the pristine beaches.

What is the most unique thing to buy in Hawaii?

Macadamia nuts are something which you must but in your Hawaiian trip. These nuts are quite popular here and in nearly every market, you will find these. So, don’t go home without taking so many packets of Macadamia nuts.

Is Hawaii expensive to vacation?

Hawaii is one of the most expensive areas in the United States. The food and accommodation is comparatively expensive than the other areas.

Which are the best places to visit in Hawaii?

Some of the must-visit places in Hawaii are Waimea Canyon, USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbour, Kaanapali Beach, Haleakala National Park, Kamakou Preserve, and many more.

Is Hawaii Family Friendly?

Apart from being a couples’ favorite destination, Hawaii also offers a marvelous shelter for families as well. with natural wonders, white sand beaches, natural wonders, drool-worthy food, and many activities to try, this destination will surely be loved by kids as well as adults.

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Hawaii Vacation Packages

We are proud to offer exclusive vacation packages, most with rates under $1,000. These packages include airfare, car rental, and hotel stay for six to eight days. Visiting different islands, or "island-hopping" as we call it, is highly recommended because each island has its own distinct "personality."

• Rental Cars

Tips on Finding Hawaii Vacation Deals

Save time and money by booking your rental car, hotel room, and airfare together and make planning your vacation easier.

How to Find the Cheapest Vacation Packages

Understanding Hawaii’s travel seasons will make it easy for you to book an affordable trip to the Rainbow State. With summer and winter being peak travel times for the islands, you can find vacation deals by booking during the “shoulder” seasons—spring and fall. Fortunately, Hawaii is just as beautiful and magnificent during fall and spring as it is in summer and winter, so aside from the cost of travel, nothing will change about your trip to Hawaii.

Should You Book an All-Inclusive Package?

Planning a trip is, what we call in Hawaii slang “humbug.” It’s a bother, a nuisance—even stressful. But it doesn’t have to be. By booking an all-inclusive vacation package, the hard work is done for you. Cars are rented, hotel rooms are booked and it can be cheaper to book a package versus booking everything ala carte.

Best Areas to Stay on Each Island

While there are no bad choices for places to stay in the islands—you are in Hawaii after all—there are some areas that are very well suited for travelers. Waikiki on Oahu has a variety of accommodations, malls and restaurants all dotting the golden shores of Waikiki Beach. On Kauai, Hanalei and Poipu are perfect for visitors who want to be close to the beach during their island stay—and in a similar vein, Kaanapali on Maui is a perfect blend of resort luxury and island living that will truly make visitors feel like they’re in paradise. On Hawaii Island, also referred to as the Big Island, both Kona and Hilo will provide travelers with convenient accommodations, activities and dining options.

The Top 3 Hotels and Resorts on Each Island

• Hilton Hawaiian Village
• Turtle Bay Resort
• Grand Wailea
• Kaanapali Beach Hotel
• Fairmont Kea Lani
• 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay
• Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
• Mauna Kea Beach Hotel
• Fairmont Orchid
• Hilton Waikoloa Village

On Oahu, the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort, Turtle Bay Resort and the Halekulani reign supreme. Maui’s Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort, Kaanapali Beach Hotel and Fairmont Kea Lani are popular choices amongst travelers. For Kauai, the 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay, The ISO and the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa are stunning accommodations that will make it hard to even leave your room—while on the Big Island you can’t go wrong staying at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Autograph Collection, Fairmont Orchid and Hilton Waikoloa Village.

Which Hawaii Island is Best for You?

Kauai’s picturesque Na Pali Coast.

For nature lovers and those who seek adventure, Kauai is a primordial playground full of epic hikes, stunning beaches and botanical gardens—it is the Garden Isle after all.

Sunrise over Na Mokulua islands from Lanikai Beach on Oahu.

Oahu has a great mix of everything a visitor could want and is perfect for families with young children as there are more keiki (kid) friendly activities on the island.

Waianapanapa State Park, Maui.

Maui & the Big Island

Both Maui and the Big Island are great places for travelers looking to escape from their worldly distractions. Instead of waking up to traffic and city noise, on these islands, the soft sounds of birdsong and crashing waves will serve as your natural alarm clock.

Hawaii Travel Tips

You’ll want to hit the ground running—presumably to the beach!—once you’ve landed. Also be sure to pack a few jackets or hoodies along with your beachwear, as the islands typically has “passing showers” from time to time due to its tropical climate. Another major travel tip to remember is that, unless you’re staying on Oahu, you will absolutely need to rent a car to fully enjoy the best of each island, as public transportation options are limited on the out islands.

The Perfect 10-Day Hawaii Itinerary (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Our ultimate 10-day Hawaii itinerary includes some of the gorgeous beaches, historic sites and enticing landmarks of the major Hawaiian Islands.

The world-famous tropical paradise of Hawaii is overflowing with thriving rainforests, golden beaches, cultural monuments, and so much more.

Any Hawaiian vacation will refresh the mind, body, and soul through the natural beauty and heartwarming culture of these islands. Though there are eight Hawaiian Islands, our perfect 10-day itinerary will only cover three – Maui , Kauai , and Oahu .

10 days isn’t a huge amount of time for exploring all of Hawaii. You could easily spend 10 days on just one Hawaiian Island! But if you’re hoping to see as much as you can on a 10-day Hawaii vacation, this itinerary should give you a jump start on your planning.

Out of all the Hawaiian Islands, Oahu is the most visited because of its famous attractions, such as Pearl Harbor and Waikiki Beach. For a more undeveloped and rugged option, Kauai is the perfect island to set the scene for a wild adventure of the great outdoors.

Of the three islands included in your 10-day Hawaii itinerary, Maui is the ideal middle ground, offering an in-between of developed and undeveloped areas for exploring. 

We’ve curated this perfect Hawaii island hopping itinerary so you can see the highlights of Maui, Oahu, and Kauai.

Table of Contents

When to Visit Hawaii

How to get around the islands, day 1 morning – road to hana, day 1 afternoon – black sand beach , day 1 evening – kaihalulu beach (red sand beach), day 2 morning – haleakala national park, day 2 afternoon – molokini crater, day 2 evening – wailea beach, day 3 morning – maui ocean center, day 3 afternoon – na’ili’ili haele stream & waterfalls, day 3 evening – ke’anae arboretum, day 4 morning – sunset beach, day 4 afternoon – shark’s cove, day 4 evening – polynesian cultural center, day 5 morning – waimea bay beach park, day 5 afternoon – dole plantation, day 5 evening – pearl harbor national memorial, day 6 morning – waikiki beach, day 6 afternoon – diamond head state monument, day 6 evening – hanauma bay, day 7 morning – na pali coast state wilderness park, day 7 afternoon – kokeʻe state park, day 7 evening – poipu beach , day 8 morning – kauaʻi coffee company, day 8 afternoon – waimea canyon state park, day 8 evening – kauai plantation railway, day 9 morning – hanalei bay , day 9 afternoon – kōloa rum company store & tasting room, day 9 evening – na ‘aina kai botanical gardens & sculpture park, day 10 morning – kilauea lighthouse, day 10 afternoon – tunnels beach, day 10 evening – limahuli garden & preserve, national tropical botanical garden.

Typically, Hawaii’s heavy rain season is November-March. We recommend avoiding these months when planning a trip to Hawaii so you can relish in the stunning islands’ vibrant and thriving outdoors.

Ideally, the best time to visit Hawaii is April, May, September, or October. These are the off-season months for tourists, meaning fewer crowds and lower prices for your trip! 

Extend your bucket list with our guide to the 25 best things to do in Hawaii !

Rental cars aren’t necessary when traveling around the islands, though they do give you more flexibility. But public transportation, bus systems, rideshares, bike rentals, and shuttles are standard methods of getting around if you don’t want a rental car.

One major factor to consider is how you will get from one island to another. An inter-island flight is the easiest and quickest way to island hop!

The largest airport on the Hawaiian Islands is the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, also called the Honolulu International Airport, on Oahu. On Kauai is the Lihue Airport, and on Maui is the Kahului Airport.

These airports welcome interisland and overseas flights to go back and forth from island to island. The main airlines that fly between the islands are Southwest Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, and Mokulele Airlines. 

Once you reach each island, you’ll likely want to grab a rental car.

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

The Perfect Hawaii 10-Day Itinerary

Day 1 – maui.

Start your Hawaii itinerary 10 days trip with a visit to Maui, also known as the Valley Isle. First, drive down the legendary Road to Hana and then check out some of the unique beaches on the island! 

The perfect way to start your trip is on Maui, the second largest of the Hawaiian Islands, on the scenic Road to Hana. This legendary 64-mile route winds along the coast from south Maui to north Maui, crossing the east coast on the way.

The Road to Hana gives visitors a glimpse of the prosperous nature of Maui, from its cascading waterfalls to its dense tropical rainforests.

This adventure tour takes visitors on an unforgettable experience along the Road to Hana to see popular points of interest, from an outdoor beach picnic to adventuring the lava caves at Wai’anapanapa State Park. 

A unique feature of Maui is the intriguing black sand beaches that litter its coastlines. Located off the mile 32 marker of the Road to Hana is the best one: Black Sand Beach in Wai’anapanapa State Park.

Also called Honokalani, this beach is a natural wonder and a sacred site for Hawaiians, representing history and shared legends. Here you can also find the largest heiau in Hawaii, a religious temple.

There are also magnificent natural features on the shores of this sandy beach, including sea stacks and lava caves. 

Another top sight on Maui is its unique red sand beach, Kaihalulu Beach!

Commonly referred to as “Red Sand Beach,” Kaihalulu Beach is a hidden cove that paints a tranquil and eye-catching image. The crescent-shaped beach achieves its striking red color from the lava cinder cliffs and Ka’uiki Head cinder cone.

Before heading here, there are some important cautionary notes to consider. Kaihalulu Beach is a clothing-optional beach, so don’t be surprised at what you may or may not see when you reach the beach.

The hike to Kaihalulu Beach is recommended for experienced hikers only and should not be trekked before, during, or after heavy rainfall. 

Read Next: Don’t miss out on all of the best destinations in Hawaii .

Day 2 – Maui

Continue your exploration of what some would consider the best Hawaiian Island! Day 2 of your itinerary will include lots of beautiful nature, hiking, snorkeling, and swimming!

Home to the Seven Sacred Pools, Haleakala National Park is an enriching journey that everyone should take when visiting Maui and the Hawaiian Islands. 

Featured in the Disney movie Moana , Haleakala National Park is where the dormant volcano Haleakalā rests. Its name translates to “house of the sun.”

Haleakalā has been told in legends to have been where the demigod Maui lassoed the sun from atop the summit of the dormant volcano to slow the sun’s descent. And from this place, people travel worldwide to bask in the mind-blowing sunrises seen from its summit. 

To experience this legendary sunrise firsthand, join this sunrise tour led by an eco-certified guide to see the sunrise from atop Haleakalā. Afterward, treat yourself to a fresh breakfast to end your trip with a delicious meal! 

Molokini Crater, a unique landmark off the coast of West Maui, was formed after an eruption estimated to have occurred nearly 230,000 years ago!

The half-submerged crater now forms an islet, its waters teeming with reefs and marine life. These components have made Molokini Crater a trendy location for snorkeling, whale watching, scuba diving, and boating.

Set in the ʻAlalākeiki Channel, Molokini Crater is three miles off the island of Maui’s shores. Experience this eye-catching volcanic crater on this afternoon snorkeling trip that takes guests out on a 55-foot catamaran across the Pacific to swim the abundant waters surrounding Molokini Crater. 

Renowned as one of the best beaches in America, Wailea Beach’s palm tree-lined golden-sanded shores are met with gentle waves of shining blue waters. 

One of the best things to do in Maui, Wailea Beach, is a replenishing escape from the hustle and bustle of life. Soak in the salty breeze and fresh air while sinking your toes in the sand while lazing in the sun.

Day 3 – Maui

Though you won’t have time to see the entire island in 3 days, enjoy an action-packed day 3 in Maui! Check out more incredible local attractions and even have the chance to see some stunning waterfalls!

Founded in 1998, the Maui Ocean Center has solidified its magnificent reputation since its establishment. The aquarium is home to the largest living tropical reef aquarium in the Western Hemisphere and hosts one of the world’s largest collections of live Pacific corals. 

Throughout the Maui Ocean Center are world-class exhibits that display an abundantly diverse selection of marine life, including species that are specifically endemic to Hawaii.

As you stroll through the Maui Ocean Center, take the opportunity to learn more about local marine life and culture through the center’s impactful educational programming and interactive exhibits while peering at the extraordinary creatures of the underwater world. 

• Address: 192 Maalaea Rd, Wailuku, HI 96793
• Hours: 9 am – 5 pm

Frequently referred to as Bamboo Forest, the Na’ili’ili Haele Stream & Waterfalls is where the intricate displays of bamboo and cascading waterfalls can be seen up close using the Bamboo Forest Waterfalls Trailhead. 

The hike is acceptable for all levels of hikers, though there comes a point where only experienced hikers are advised to continue forward.

The beginning of the hike takes trekkers through a thriving bamboo forest and then to a tricking streambed. Again, it’s at this point that only experienced hikers should proceed, leading to a continuous line of waterfalls.

Sprawling across six acres, the Ke’anae Arboretum is flooded with intriguing species of plant life in its botanical garden and arboretum. These sought-out species include the rainbow eucalyptus trees, the only gum tree species that can sustain itself in a tropical rainforest. 

The Ke’anae Arboretum’s scenic trails are designed to be strolled through to savor the sights of the numerous species that grow there. Look out for species growing in this rainforest, such as taro and hibiscus! 

• Address: 13385 HI-360, Kula, HI 96790

Have more time to spend in Maui? Check out our full list of the 21 best things to do on this fantastic island.

Day 4 – Oahu

Next on our epic 10 days in Hawaii is a visit to the most visited island: Oahu! From the North Shore to the South Shore, Oahu is packed full of national parks, pristine beaches, unique attractions, and pumping surf waves. Let’s get started!

Related: Don’t miss out on all of the best things to do in Oahu !

Sunset Beach, renowned for its waves and picturesque views, stretches two miles across Oahu’s north shore. Professional surfers travel from across the planet to catch big waves here during the winter.

Thankfully, in the summertime, the waves here are typically flat and gentle, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Its picturesque sunset views are a notorious sight, so beach bums could even spend all day hanging out here!

Boasted as one of the top shore diving destinations in the world, Shark’s Cove is a great place to visit if you’re looking to explore the waters of Oahu and Hawaii.

The cove is part of Pupukea Beach Park, forming a small section where the cove’s calm pool welcomes schools of fish looking to hide away from threats in the ocean’s open water. 

For a family-friendly spot at Shark’s Cove, head to the Pupukea tide pools on its southside! 

An absolute must-do when visiting Hawaii, the Polynesian Cultural Center is where visitors can experience the rich culture and heritage of the Pacific Islands!

The center acts as a living museum. Its 42 acres are home to six Polynesian villages and thriving tropical land. Here you can witness the Polynesian spirit come to life through its performances and interactive activities where natives demonstrate the empowering displays of their crafts, tradition, and arts.

The trip to the Polynesian Cultural Center ends with an authentic Polynesian lūʻau that will surely be a highlight of your 10 days in Hawaii.

• Address: 55-370 Kamehameha Hwy, Laie, HI 96762
• Hours: 12:30 pm – 9 pm (Closed Wednesdays and Sundays)

Read next: 21 Best Things To Do In Honolulu

Day 5 – Oahu

You’re halfway through an amazing 10 days in Hawaii! Today you’ll continue exploring Oahu with a trip to the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center in Honolulu and a few other top locations on the island.

Located on Oahu’s north shore, Waimea Bay Beach Park is a famous surfing spot during the winter, its waves breaking some of the records for the world’s most consistent surf breaks.

However, when the waves have flatted in the summer, this beach is a popular swimming, snorkeling, and cliff-jumping destination on the island! 

• Address : 61-31 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712
• Hours: 5 am – 10 pm

Featured as one of the top attractions in Oahu, the Dole Plantation was home to the world’s largest maze in 2008. The record has since been broken, but guests to the plantation can still walk amongst the three-acre Pineapple Garden Maze. Once you find your way out, grab a serving of Dole’s world-famous Dole Soft Serve as a treat! 

• Address: 64-1550 Kamehameha Hwy, Wahiawa, HI 96786
• Hours: 9:30 am – 5:30 pm

The Pearl Harbor National Memorial is a significant historical attraction in Oahu. Signifying the location where the Japanese Forces bombed an important US harbor, here you can see important monuments like the USS Arizona Memorial and the USS Battleship Memorial.

Skip the line at this popular tourist attraction by booking your tickets online in advance !

• Address: 1 Arizona Memorial Pl, Honolulu, HI 96818
• Hours: 7 am – 5 pm

Day 6 – Oahu

On day 6 of your 10 days in Hawaii itinerary, you’ll wrap up your exploration of Oahu. There is much more to do in Oahu that isn’t on this itinerary, such as whale watching, exploring the botanical gardens and art galleries, and watching Hawaiian green sea turtles bask in the sun.

But you’ll still have a blast exploring Oahu’s tropical beaches and hiking trails today!

The world-famous Waikiki Beach continues to lure millions of visitors to Oahu annually. Waikiki Beach is where surfing legend and father Duke Kahanamoku continued to hone and craft the sport of surfing, teaching others as he did.

It is no wonder the iconic Duke Kahanamoku statue was placed here! 

Find more fun activities in the area with our list of the best things to do in Waikiki !

The Diamond Head State Monument is home to the volcano cone known as Diamond Head, and it’s one of the absolute best hikes in Hawaii. The 300,000-year-old volcanic crater offers out-of-this-world Oahu and the Pacific Ocean vistas from above! 

Hike at sunrise for the best views! Or book a guided tour with round-trip transport if you’d rather tackle the trail with the reassurance of an experienced local guide!

Part of a volcanic cone, Hanauma Bay protects a voluminous sea life ecosystem within its embayment. Snorkeling and swimming have become popular at Hanauma Bay, where dolphins, sea turtles, and tropical fish come to feed, swim, and play! 

Read Next: After reading this post, you may want to add to your Oahu itinerary !

Day 7 – Kauai

Known as the Garden Isle, Kauai is a haven for nature lovers. From the rugged Na Pali Coast to the surrounding beaches, waterfalls, and national parks, Kauai has endless opportunities for adventure.

Famous for its use in the movie Jurassic Park, Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park has wild, dramatic scenery with imposing sea cliffs, dipping valleys, and roaring waterfalls.

Hiking is a great way to sightsee here, though a boat tour also offers a great perspective of the cliffs from the water. Or you can get a bird’s eye view of the lush jungles and rippling cliff faces on a helicopter tour !

Featuring over 45 miles of hiking trails, Kokeʻe State Park is teeming with opportunities and rewarding challenges. Sightseeing is incredible here, with vast canyons and valleys sprawling beneath the trails. You should also be able to catch a glimpse of some unique species endemic to Hawaii, such as the ‘iwi and ‘apapane.

Wind down the day with another gorgeous Hawaiian beach! One of the best things to do in Kauai is admiring Poipu Beach’s sparkling crystal-clear waters and crescent-shaped sandy shores.

Popular among bodyboarders, swimmers, surfers, and snorkelers, this is a great place to frolic in the water and watch the sun go down. This family-friendly beach has lifeguards on-site and a nearby wading pool perfect for kiddos to explore the beautiful waters of Poipu Beach. 

Day 8 – Kauai

This 10-day Hawaii itinerary continues with more adventures on Kauai. Get ready to explore more local attractions and state parks!

The largest coffee farm in the United States, the Kauaʻi Coffee Company, is a unique opportunity to consider taking up when on Kauai.

Visit the coffee orchard, learn about the coffee growing process, taste exclusive estate-grown Hawaiian coffees, and savor the miraculous viewpoints of the coffee orchard that leads to the open ocean beyond!

• Address: 870 Halewili Rd, Kalaheo, HI 96741
• Hours: 9 am – 5 pm weekdays, 10 am – 4 pm Sat/Sun

Consistently called the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, Waimea Canyon is a sight to behold. This mindblowing landscape is located on the west coast of Kauai and offers some epic hiking routes.

Its most famous trail, the Waimea Canyon Trail , leads to exceptional viewpoints of the natural landmark. 

Journeying through the historic 105 acres of Kilohana Plantation, the Kauai Plantation Railway is a short 2.5-mile trip that offers an outstanding perspective of the land of Kauai.

Passengers on the train can see breathtaking sights of native crops established by ancient Hawaiians, including groves of mango and papaya, as the train chugs along! 

Day 9 – Kauai

Experience more of Kauai’s wonders on day 9 of your Hawaii itinerary!

Stretching from the Waipa Stream to the Hanalei River, Hanalei Bay is famed as one of America’s best beaches. The two-mile beach is a picturesque image to behold with its mountain backdrop and crystalline waters. It is conveniently near local shopping for souvenirs and eatery options for a quick energy boost. 

The first commercial distiller, bottler, and blender of Hawaiian Rum in Kauai, the Kōloa Rum Company Store & Tasting Room , has gone on to become an award-winning company! The tasting room is settled on the historic Kilohana Plantation and welcomes visitors to relish in the refinement of harvested sugar cane while sampling their white, gold, and dark rum. 

• Address: 3-2087 Kaumualii Hwy, Lihue, HI 96766
• Hours: 10 am – 5 pm, Closed Sundays

Showcasing more than 160 bronze sculptures, the Na ‘Aina Kai Botanical Gardens & Sculpture Park hosts one of the nation’s largest collections of sculptures. The botanical garden displays rare plants on its landscaped grounds that portray the beauty of nature in its many elements. 

• Address: 4101 Wailapa Rd, Kilauea, HI 96754
• Hours: 8:30 am – 4 pm Monday – Friday

Have time for more activities? Check out our list of the 21 best things to do in Kauai !

Day 10 – Kauai

On the last day of this 10-day Hawaii itinerary, savor the incredible rejuvenation of Kauai’s rich nature, culture, and history. Soak in every moment because as soon as you leave The Garden Isle, you’ll be missing it!

Part of the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, the Kilauea Lighthouse is an iconic landmark of Kauai. The historic structure was built in 1913, meant to protect ships from crashing upon the rocky shores below.

For 62 years, the lighthouse had a significant role in protecting ships as they traveled between Hawaii and Asia for commercial purposes. It is open for tours on the ground floor to learn more about the lighthouse’s history through interactive exhibits. 

• Address: 3580 Kilauea Rd, Kilauea, HI 96754
• Hours: 10 am – 4 pm Wednesday – Saturday

One of the most famous snorkeling spots in Kauai, Tunnels Beach’s clear waters are perfect for gazing upon the vibrant tropical fish and marine life as they swim.

A coral reef rests close to the shoreline, making it a hot spot for observing the rich marine ecosystem. Unsurprisingly, sea turtles like to hunt for food here and nap afterward on the beach’s sandy shores! 

Found on the north shore of Kauai, the Limahuli Garden & Preserve is one of the sought-after attractions on the island. The botanical garden and nature preserve encase ancient Hawaiian history through its preservation of native species that have a heavy significance in its culture and tradition.

• Address: 5-8291 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714
• Hours: 8:30 am – 2:15 pm Tuesday – Saturday

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

What to Know Before Planning Your 10-Day Hawaii Itinerary

Creating a 10 days in Hawaii itinerary is difficult as there is so much to do on these gorgeous islands! Hopping from one island to another can be exhausting and time-consuming, so we’ve decided not to include the Big Island of Hawaii for the sake of time.

However, it’s just as magnificent with world-famous activities like Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Akaka Falls State Park. 

This 10 day Hawaii itinerary compiles the top attractions on Oahu, Maui, and Kauai. We recommend including the Big Island only if you have more time to add on to your trip!

things to do on the Big Island !

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Inspiration For Our Hawaii Trip

What’s not to love about Hawaii, from beautiful beaches to the unique mountains. Hawaii has a very versatile landscape to offer. You can literally see lava flowing from active volcanoes to the ocean. The native people of Hawaii are extremely friendly and nice, and they always welcome the tourists with so much warmth. From the native Polynesian culture to the mouth-watering food the island of Hawaii has so much to offer. We have been to Hawaii 5 times now and I am sure we have more trips in store.

How We Planned For The Trip

We do all our bookings online, for car rentals we usually use Avis. We generally fly with Alaska Airlines as they have a direct flight from Seattle to Hawaii and we love their services (being an MVP Miles Member is an added benefit). We usually book our hotels through booking.com. Usually, we book our trip 1-2 months in advance.

Since It’s a beach destination, the packing included beachwear, resort wear, lots of sunscreens, hat, sunglasses. Also some light jackets for the times we went up the mountains.

Our Itinerary

We have been to Hawaii multiple times but let me briefly cover the itinerary of the trip that we took the first time when we visited all 3 islands.

It was a weeklong vacation-

Day 1 – land in Maui, check-in to our hotel and relax at the beach.

Day 2 – Road to Hana + Ho’okipa Beach

Day 3- Snorkeling at Molokini Crater. We were very lucky to see a humpback whale on our way back and just relax on the beach and enjoy the sunset. Hawaiian sunsets are one of the best in the world.

Day 4- Travel to Big Island, check in to our resort and go to one of the beaches mentioned below.

Day 5-   Hawaii Volcanos National Park.

Day 6-Fly to Oahu and relax at Waikiki Beach.

Day 7- Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay and Luau in the evening

Day 8 – North shore

Day 9- Flyback

Overall the trip was 9 days including 2 weekends. It was enough time to visit all the “major” attractions but not enough for a relaxing vacation. Later we went back to each island multiple times and stayed for a week.

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We Met Many Friendly Locals

We usually love to interact with locals wherever we travel to. Native Hawaiian people are so warm and welcoming. They are super friendly and that just makes us super happy to soak in the Polynesian island culture.

Hikes And Sights Not To Be Missed In Hawaii

In general never ever miss a Luau show when you are in Hawaii.

The island of Hawaii consists of many small islands-

Oahu, more popularly known as Honolulu is the most touristy attraction. Go to North Shore for sure if you are in Oahu, especially if you go in winter because the waves are ginormous, and it is a very popular surfing destination. I also highly recommend going to Hanauma Bay for Snorkeling. Kailua Beach is one of my most favorite, and is the most beautiful beach in Oahu in my opinion.

Maui   is my personal favorite. Kaanapali Beach is our go to place to stay in Maui. I highly recommend doing the Road to Hana. It is a very picturesque drive with multiple places to stop and marvel at.

Haleakala National Park   is the highest point in Maui and you get a beautiful view of the island from the top.

Ho’okipa Beach   is a beautiful beach famous for surfing and turtles.

Also you must do the snorkeling at   Molokini Crater.

Big Island's Hawaii Volcanoes National Park where you can see active volcanoes and you can also do hikes to see lava flowing from a very close proximity.

Pu’uhonua o Honaunau is a historic park. It provides an opportunity to learn about ancient Hawaiian tribes. 

Papakolea beach is one of the four green sand beaches in the world, only accessible via a 5.6 miles hike.

Punalu’u beach is a famous black sand beach, and you can see green turtles on the shore.

Favourite Memory From The Trip

We have lots of good memories associated with Hawaii. It is our go to place that we like to visit again and again. However, if I had to pick one then I would go with the snorkeling experience at Hanauma bay. I have never seen so many different kinds of fishes before!

How We Managed Costs In Hawaii

You can always find cheaper alternatives in all the Hawaiian Islands. If you don’t want to book expensive resorts you can always book through Airbnb or Hotwire and get a condo/house. I don’t have any recommendations for Airbnb in the area as we always stay in resorts, but I know that there are good alternatives. Also food is expensive in Hawaii, so if you are staying at an Airbnb then you can get groceries from the local farmer’s market and save some dollars by cooking and not eating outside. Food trucks are also an excellent alternative if you want to save some cost on food.

Food You Can’t Miss Out On

Restaurants- Roy’s Waikiki, Hula Grill and Bar, MonkeyPod Kitchen (Maui), Mamas Fish House (best in Maui), Kimo’s Maui. Hawaiian shaved ice is very famous and not to mention the tropical cocktails.

Advice For First Timers Heading To Hawaii

Relax and have fun. Don’t miss any of the sunsets or the tropical drinks. Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay is a must and don’t miss out on Luau.

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Two Girls Getaway

Travel tips for girls on a budget!

Island Hopping in Hawaii: The Best Itinerary for 9 Days

Country: USA Islands: Maui, Big Island Highlights: Haleakala National Park, Road to Hana, Volcanoes National Park

Who wouldn’t want to take a girl’s trip to Hawaii? These islands have it all – beautiful beaches, clear-blue waters, and all-around relaxing vibes. With such a long journey from the east coast (best coast) of the US, we wanted to make a longer trip out of it. Of course, as always, we plan our trips with our somewhat limited finances in mind, but we had to have a couple of splurges while in the Aloha State! Keep reading to see where we saved and where we splurged (and what SHOULD NOT be missed).

The first step when planning any Hawaii trip is deciding WHICH island to go to! Because we were limited on time, we decided to keep it to 2 or 3 islands so we weren’t flying to a different island every other day. However, there are 7 major islands in Hawaii each with their own distinct personality. How to decide?? Research. Lots and lots of research. (Sorry.) We asked ourselves what we wanted to experience most, what we wanted the vibe to be, and how much time we wanted to spend traveling, just as a start.

In the end, we decided on Maui for their world-famous beaches and Road to Hana adventure, and the “Big Island” (Hawaii) for Volcanoes National Park. Additionally, Jenny ended up adding a few days in Oahu, but that itinerary will be posted at a later time.

Day 1: Traveling to Maui

We decided to start off our trip in Maui, so we could get a good chunk of traveling out of the way in the beginning. There were no direct flights to Maui from Newark Airport, so we had to first fly to the Big Island and from there, catch a Southern Airlines flight to Maui. We left 3 hours in between landing on the Big Island and catching our next flight, and although NOT at the main airport terminal, that did leave us enough time.

PRO TIP: There are not many airlines that hop between Hawaiian Islands. Mokulele Airlines is part of Southern Airways, which confused us a bit as our tickets said Southern Airways but we checked in at a desk called Mokulele Airlines. We do recommend Mokulele Airlines – we had no issues traveling and they were very flexible with timing (letting us on earlier flights if one was available). NOTE that the check-in is not in the main terminal, so it can be a bit confusing to get to. You have to leave the main terminal and then take a shuttle or walk to Terminal 3, the commuter terminal. There is no additional security to go through.

The flight to Maui was BEAUTIFUL, but terrifying! The plane could fit about 10 people. However, the ride was almost like a tour – sea life below, volcanoes in the distance, each of us with our own personal window seat.

We always like to share which side of the plane has better views, but in this case, both were great! The right side had views of the island below, while the left side had beautiful sunset views over the ocean (of course this depends on the time of your flight). Win, win!

Once we landed in Maui, it was time to pick up our rental car at Aloha . There was a convenient free shuttle from the airport, and picking up the car went smoothly. We splurged for a convertible, but beware, these and Jeeps sell out quickly so book early! I will say the car was not in the BEST shape (a bit dirty and outdated), and it was VERY low to the ground so off-roading was out of the question. But it got us from point A to point B so we’ll take it.

After that, we headed to our Airbnb in Kihei. This is where we wanted to save some money, so we booked two rooms in a shared house with our host, Kaon. Having a host was great! He gave us suggestions for the best tours, best places to eat, provided beach gear, and even showed us where the turtles come up every night! We decided on Kihei because it was more affordable, and on Maui, everything is just a drive away! We had an early morning planned, so we grabbed some dinner nearby and called it a night.

Day 2: Snorkeling and Haleakala Sunset

We don’t waste any time! It was time to head out to the ocean. We booked a 5.5 hour Sea Caves and Snorkeling Tour with Blue Water Rafting in advance. Meeting time was 6:30am so we got a pretty view of the sunrise before hopping on our boat.

There were a ton of people waiting to go on tours , but eventually we were put on a boat with about 20 others. The first part of the trip consisted of getting to and exploring the Kanaio Sea Caves . I will say, this was the scariest boat ride of my life. It was VERY choppy and very difficult to take any pictures as we were just holding on for dear life the entire time. I was certain we were going to hit the rocky shore and all drown or get eaten by sharks, but alas, we survived.

It was a fun experience, but overall, I could have skipped it. Next, we headed to Molokini Crater , one of the best snorkeling spots in Hawaii! On the way there, we were greeted by a lively pod of dolphins, which was exciting. Once at the crater, we got out with our gear and swam with a huge variety of mesmerizing tropical fish. The tour took us to 2 different locations, one close to the crater, and another at a 200ft drop off! Unfortunately we didn’t get many photos, but we definitely recommend checking this out for yourself!

When the tour ended, it was still pretty early, so we decided to check out the sunset at the best place there is to go – Haleakala National Park . This is a MUST DO. You can go for either sunrise or sunset, drive yourself or go with a tour , but no matter what, it is a highlight of Maui. It can take a while to get there, and there will be a TON of people looking for parking and places to sit, so we recommend going early. Additionally, bring a sweater, blanket/chairs to sit on, and maybe even dinner!

The drive up to the top of the mountain was long and windy, but not particularly terrifying. There are many places to stop for hikes or just a good view, so we recommend grabbing a trail map when you first arrive. We ended up doing the Halemau’u Haleakala Overlook Trail , but only about 1/2 mile in (where the good views are!), as well as a couple of other short overlook trails.

We made our way up to the top, found a spot to sit, and watched the sunset while we ate dinner. It was magical. The clouds below us seemed to dance, and the view of the entire island down below was perfect.

After the sun set, it was freezing! We put up our convertible top, blasted the heat, and drove back to our Airbnb for a good night’s rest.

Day 3: Beach Day

It was time for a relaxing beach day! We decided to hit the road and check out one of the things that makes Hawaii so popular – beautiful blue waters and soft sandy beaches. Of course, there are A LOT to choose from, but with the help of our Airbnb host, Kaon, we were able to narrow it down a bit. We wanted good snorkeling, clear waters, and not a ton of people. This led us to Mokuleia Bay, specifically Slaughterhouse Beach . We found an empty spot on the beach and spent most of the day snorkeling, relaxing and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.

This particular beach is close to a Marine Conservation, so there are tons of turtles! They are friendly, but please do not touch them.

PRO TIP: With most places in Hawaii, parking lots fill up fast. We recommend getting an early start to the day if you don’t want to spend a good amount of time driving around looking for parking.

After we had had our share of beach time, we decided to explore the island a little bit via car. We drove up to MamaLei’s Homemade Goodness , a little snack stand on the side of the road, picked up some DELICIOUS banana bread (a Hawaiian staple) and cookies, and took a hike to Nakalele Blowhole . This was a fairly short hike, but something more than flip flops is recommended. If you have time, check out this hike. But beware, it was WINDY!

After that, we just drove around the island stopping at various overlooks (they are scattered along the roads). One stop that we very much enjoyed was the Honolua Bay Access Trail . This was an easy little walk in a dense tropical rainforest. It felt magical, like we were walking in an enchanted place. We recommend it for a quick stop!

The rest of the night was spent hanging out the Airbnb before going out for dinners and Mai Tais! Maui is known for their Mai Tais so do not miss getting one (or two or three) before you leave!

Day 4: The Road to Hana

Arguably, this was THE reason we came to Maui. The Road to Hana is an ALL DAY drive, but it’s not about the destination, it’s about the journey. This beautiful drive has 617 turns and 59 one-lane bridges so START EARLY. Think you’re starting early? Start earlier. We started at about 6am, and even then, we had several other people with us all day long (but we did mostly find parking). Bring food, water, bathing suits, towels, warm clothes, sandals, hiking shoes, etc. There are beautiful waterfalls, unique beaches, and various interesting hikes, so we’d recommend making a list of your must-sees before starting out.

PRO TIP: There are already lots of guides about the best places to stop along the Road to Hana. However, one guide we really enjoyed was the Gypsy Guide . This uses your GPS to play various tips, stories and fun facts automatically, based on your location. It’s super easy to use and VERY helpful.

Since there are SO MANY stops, I won’t go into every stop we made in this post, but I will go over the highlights for us. Our first stop was Ho’okipa Beach Park . This was a quick stop, but we got to see turtles on the beach and early morning surfers starting their day, which was fun.

The next stop we made was the Waikamoi Nature Trailhead . To be honest, I would skip this. We wasted WAY too much time wandering around and although we saw some cool bamboo and a little waterfall, there was nothing particularly exciting about this stop.

The next MUST STOP was Ke’anae Arboretum . There were a lot of cool flora and fauna here, but the star of the show was the infamous Rainbow Eucalyptus Tree . These trees were awesome to see in person and we highly recommend you don’t miss it!

The next area is a little off the main Road to Hana, but definitely worth the drive. Head to Keanae Point Lookout on the Ke’anae Peninsula first for a quick view of the coast. From there, head to Aunty Sandy’s for the BEST banana bread you’ve ever had!

Next, drive a little further for some amazing lava formations! There is also a historic church that survived the last eruption. AND public bathrooms if you’re in need of a quick pit stop.

At this point, you’re almost Halfway to Hana ! There is a little refreshments stand there if you need it, although we found it to be quite crowded.

The next stop worth stopping at is the Upper Waikani Falls aka Three Bears (Papa Bear, Momma Bear and Baby Bear). There is a swimming hole here, but we were feeling a bit behind on time and parking was limited so we decided to just admire the beautiful view from afar.

Love ice cream as much as we do? Then don’t miss our next stop, Coconut Glen’s ! This adorable stop sells some of the best ice cream in Hawaii, made all from coconut milk! There’s plenty of parking and service was very quick, so it’s definitely an easy stop that we recommend.

The next part of the trip was definitely the sketchiest. On our list was Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach . However, actually getting to it was an issue. It is accessed only via a steep trail on private property with no parking. There are cops circling the streets and we saw many people get tickets as we were circling trying to figure out what to do. In the end, we decided that only one of us should go while the other drove the car around until we were finished.

The hike to the beach was a bit scary, but not impossible. There are stories of many people falling, so good shoes are definitely recommended. It took about 15 minutes each way.

The beach itself was beautiful. The red sand contrasted perfectly with the turquoise waters. There were very few people and it was quite peaceful. I will leave it up to your discretion if you want to make this stop, as I believe people have gotten in trouble attempting it in the past, but it definitely was unique.

PRO TIP: There is also a black sand beach on the Road to Hana: Wai’anapanapa State Park . This requires advance registration . Unfortunately this was sold out when we tried to reserve, but if you’re interested, check 30 days in advance!

The next stop was one of our FAVORITES! It was finally time to get in a swimming hole. We stopped at Wailua Falls , got changed into our bathing suits, and made the short hike into the waterfall. When we initially got there, it was quite crowded, but as luck would have it, the crowds seemed to all leave at the same time (with a few exceptions)! We hopped into the refreshing pool and had the time of our lives swimming around and under the falls. We highly recommend this stop if you can find parking (again, leave early!).

The last and final stop on the Road to Hana was also our longest. We drove to Kipahulu Visitor Center and paid the entrance fee. This is a National Park, so if you have a National Park Pass (which we recommend!), it will be included. From the Visitor’s Center, there are several hikes. The first hike is the Pipiwai Trail to Waimoku Falls . We highly recommend this hike because all of the amazing sights along the way! It is almost 4 miles though, so make sure you don’t start too late and get caught in the dark!

The first cool thing you will see about .5 mile in is the ancient Banyan Tree . I was just blown away by the size and intricacy of this tree. Check it out below!

We kept hiking until we passed through the tranquil Bamboo Forest . We were losing daylight, so unfortunately we couldn’t spend a ton of time here, but it was so serene.

Finally, we made it to your destination of Waimoku Falls . These impressive falls are over 400 ft high!

We turned around and hurriedly hiked the 2 miles back to the start of the trail. From there, we connected to the Kuloa Point Trail , which is only 0.5 mile loop and passes the Seven Sacred Pools . Unfortunately, you can no longer swim in the pools, but they were still beautiful to look at. You can also walk a bit further to the coast for some awesome views out to sea.

At that point, we were at the end of the Road to Hana and had to make the decision to continue the loop back to our Airbnb, or turn around and reverse the entire trip. This was a huge decision for us, as we were told the drive back is only on dirt roads that can be treacherous for rental cars (in fact, most agencies will not allow you to take it all the way around). But we decided to go for it!

The drive back was interesting. There were a few dicey spots, but overall, I didn’t think it was that bad. We made it with our low-rider convertible, so I’m confident most cars should have no issue. We found a cool spot for our last sunset in Maui and then called it a day.

Day 5: Travel to Big Island and Explore

Unfortunately it was time to say goodbye to Maui. We took an early flight (using Mokulele Airlines again) to the Big Island. Again, the ride felt like a tour with beautiful views on either side! I’m pretty certain I even saw a whale from the sky!

We decided to splurge a little bit more on the Big Island. We opted for a Jeep Rental (more expensive but it was worth it!) and a private Airbnb with an ocean view! We arrived a little too early to check in to our Airbnb, so decided to explore a little bit. We had read about a lava tube fresh water cave called the Queen’s Bath , so we headed on an adventure to find it. It wasn’t easy, BUT we did find it.

If you’re interested in doing this, head to Kiholo State Park Reserve . You will need a jeep to drive down this road. Park in the designated parking lot, head towards the beach and turn right. After a couple hundred feet, you will find it pushed back from the oceanfront. Here is the exact location we found it.

The water was frigid, but how cool is it to say you swam in a lava tube?! We were there with one other local family, who was friendly. They even helped us get out, which was a bit tricky to say the least!

We eventually packed up and headed to our Airbnb in downtown Kona. This was a great spot with lots of daily entertainment! After getting settled, we headed out for some Mai Tais at Huggo’s On the Rocks . Although a bit expensive, we went to this bar almost every night for their magnificent sunset views. But as always, get there early as reservations fill up fast!

We had a little night on the town. There are lots of bars in the area but we enjoyed Laverne’s Sports Bar for the vibes. There were plenty of other fun places too!

Day 6: Captain Cook Snorkeling

nother day, another snorkeling adventure! We had read that the Captain Cook Monument had some of the best snorkeling around, so we booked a tour to check it out. Unfortunately I didn’t take too many pictures, but it was a nice trip. To be honest, the snorkeling in Maui was better, but it’s still always fun to see tropical fish in the wild. Our guide also took us into several sea caves, which was interesting!

After the tour, we used the rest of the day to just hang out at the beach and relax. We had a long day planned for the next day, so we went to bed early.

Day 7: Volcanoes National Park

Why did we choose the Big Island? To see volcanoes! Fortunately and unfortunately, none were actively spewing lava while we were there, but still, the entire landscape was amazing to see! As this is a National Park, you will need to either have a pass or pay an entrance fee.

On the way there, we first stopped at Punalu’u Black Sand Beach . We really enjoyed this stop as it was just so unique. First of all, there were sea turtles there, but secondly, the black sand was exquisite.

When we got to Volcanoes National Park , after picking up a map, we headed towards the Nakuha Thurston Lava Tube . This is a giant lava tube that you can walk through. It’s a short and easy walk, so we think it’s worth it to check out!

After that, we drove through the park stopping at various overlooks. Just seeing the land and imagining how it was all once lava was remarkable. It almost felt like you were on the surface of Mars or some other alien planet.

One of the most talked about features in the Park is Holei Sea Arch . It’s a short hike from the parking lot, and while it’s a cool concept (an arch of lava into the sea), I was a little bit disappointed by the site of it. It was fine, but I think the drive TO the sea arch was better than the sea arch itself.

After the arch, we drove back into the main area of the park and decided it was time for a longer hike. There were several to choose from, but we wanted to get in the thick of things. We decided on the Kilauea Iki Trail and Crater Rim Trail , a 3.2 mile moderate loop. This was probably my favorite part of Volcanoes National Park. You could see and feel the steam coming out of the ground. I felt like I could be swallowed by lava at any minute. It was just very exciting and felt like a once-in-a-lifetime experience. We highly recommend it!

We explored by driving around a little more and then headed back to Kona for sunset dinner and drinks.

Day 8: Relaxing Beach Day

It was my (Caroline’s) last full day in Hawaii and I wanted to just relax for one more day. This trip admittedly was a lot more laid back than normal, but sometimes that’s just needed. We headed to Beach 69 (Waialea Beach) , known for it’s snorkeling and white sand beaches. Again, our Airbnb provided chairs and snorkeling gear, so it took the hassle out of trying to find rental gear, which was awesome.

We hung out, read books, basked in the beautiful sun and water, and eventually headed back for my last sunset in Hawaii, while drinking a Mai Tai.

Day 9: Caroline Heads Back to the Mainland, Jenny Heads to Oahu

As Jenny is a teacher with more time off, she had more time to explore Hawaii. She also had some friends in Honolulu, so Jenny flew from Kona to Honolulu on Oahu. Unfortunately for me, it was time to head back to the mainland USA, but it was a trip I’ll never forget.

Jenny will be posting her additional blog for her time in Oahu soon, so stay tuned!

About Caroline

Caroline is a lover of all adventures! Whether it's a weekend backpacking in the wilderness, or a night club-hopping in Paris, Caroline is always down for a good time. She is happily married and plays mother to two sassy cats - Pickles and Einstein!

@twogirlsgetaway

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The Best 10-Day Hawaii Itinerary

See recent posts by Lara Grant

Gorgeous beaches, lush mountains, and an aloha spirit are just some of the reasons Hawaii is a top travel destination. But with several alluring islands, hundreds of hotel options, and many things to see and do, planning a getaway to the 50th state can be daunting. That’s where we come in. After traveling around the islands and exploring all the natural attractions, watching entertaining luaus, and feasting delicious Hawaiian food, we’ve created the ultimate schedule for a Hawaii vacation. Whether you’re going on a romantic honeymoon, a family vacation, or an adventure-packed friend getaway, here’s the best 10-day Hawaii itinerary.

Days 1 to 4: Maui

The second-largest of the Hawaiian islands, Maui is a stunning destination that offers an ideal combination of natural beauty and modern conveniences. After landing at Kahului Airport, travelers should rent a car — a necessity for exploring Maui — and head for one of the many upscale beach resorts on the western coast, where the weather is drier, warmer, and sunnier than the east coast. Golfers will want to stay in the Kapalua area, which is home to the highly regarded Kapalua Plantation Course and Bay Course, while those looking to get some shopping done should stay in Wailea . After checking in, get into vacation mode by heading to the nearest beach (all are public throughout Hawaii) and ordering a tropical drink.

Pack the next few days with an equal mix of poolside and oceanfront lounging, plus outdoor recreation. Before arriving in Hawaii, book a sunrise or (less popular) sunset tour of Haleakalā National Park , a 10,023-foot dormant volcano that often tops travelers’ lists of must-do Maui experiences. Most tours include round-trip hotel transportation, two meals, and a guided hike up to the summit. (Pro tip: Bring a jacket as it’s cold at the top.) Another worthwhile natural attraction is the Nakalele Blowhole on the northeastern coast. It’s a geyser where seawater trapped in an underwater lava tube powerfully shoots out of the lava rock. Rainbows often form in the mist and a nearby heart-shaped hole formed in the middle of rocks makes for an Instagram-worthy photo opportunity.

Another must is the Road to Hana drive, which begins near the airport and ends in the small town of Hana, home to the spectacular all-inclusive  Hana-Maui Resort . The route consists of over 600 hairpin turns and 59 one-lane bridges, but the natural beauty along the way makes the white-knuckle driving worth it. While it can be driven in about two hours, most travelers spend more time than that, stopping at spots such as Twin Falls Waterfall, Upper Waikani Falls, and the black-sand Honokalani Beach at Waianapanapa State Park. Don’t skip the fresh, warm banana bread at Aunty Sandy’s, or the coconut-based ice cream at Coconut Glen’s.

Where to Stay in Maui

Hana-Maui Resort, A Destination By Hyatt Residence : This rustic-luxe property overlooks Hana Bay in the middle of Maui’s lush, secluded east coast and offers all-inclusive packages. It has 74 stand-alone bungalows featuring separate tubs and showers, couches, and big furnished terraces with garden or ocean views. Expansive grounds house two outdoor pools, a hot tub, a lovely spa, a wellness pavilion, tennis courts, and a small fitness center, plus a couple of dining options.

The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua : Situated on 54 beautiful acres, this 466-room resort offers a luxury getaway on a secluded beach in the famous Kapalua resort area. It boasts top-notch restaurants, a stellar spa, a three-level outdoor pool with an adjacent kids’ pool, a well-stocked fitness center, and beautifully landscaped grounds. Elegant, contemporary rooms have flat-screen TVs, furnished balconies, and marble bathrooms with separate tubs and showers.

Grand Wailea – A Waldorf Astoria Resort : With 780 rooms, two massive pools, four restaurants, and a 50,000-square-foot spa, the Grand Wailea wows with its grandiose scale. Rooms are upscale and well-equipped, and there’s ample to keep families, couples, and groups of friends entertained all day.

Hotels in this story

Days 5 to 7: Oahu

Oahu is the most popular island in Hawaii for its bustling city of Hon olulu, kid-friendly Wai kiki , convenient airport, and popular attractions. The Daniel K. Inouye International Airport is under a 15-minute drive from Honolulu’s center, which has high-rise buildings, tons of shopping opportunities, and a plethora of chain eateries (such as Ruth’s Chris Steak House) and local restaurants serving Hawaiian, Asian, and seafood fare. Most travelers will want to stay in Waikiki for ease and the calm beaches, but those looking for a more secluded, peaceful getaway should consider the North Shore or Kailua areas.

There are ample things to do in Oahu, but certainly, the top attraction is Diamond Head, a dormant volcano crater located just a 15-minute drive from Waikiki. The hike up 560 feet is challenging and, at times, quite steep, but doable for most ages and fitness levels, taking about 90 minutes to two hours round-trip. Hikers are rewarded with stellar views of the crater, Honolulu , and the Pacific Ocean. For sea-level fun, the North Shore offers tourists a chance to watch professional surfers ride huge waves at one of the many annual surf competitions (in the winter months), or just to walk along the pretty beaches, spot some sea turtles, and enjoy a shaved ice. Snorkeling and zip-lining are also popular activities on Oahu.

Of course, other top activities in Oahu include visiting the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, USS Arizona Memorial, and Battleship Missouri Memorial. The Pearl Harbor National Memorial honors over 2,000 Americans who died during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. Entry to the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, two museums, and exhibits along the harbor, as well as the USS Arizona Memorial, are free. Pearl Harbor is about 20 minutes away by car from Honolulu.

Where to Stay in Oahu

Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort : This 3,386-room resort is the largest hotel in Hawaii, essentially an upscale village with its five towers, nearly 20 bars and restaurants, dozens of shops, five swimming pools, direct beach access, and a separate lagoon. Everything from surf lessons to a regular luau is on offer here, and the rooms are well-equipped.

Sheraton Waikiki : This Sheraton is an upscale beachfront hotel that’s home to multiple restaurants, excellent ocean views, and family-friendly activities. It stands out for its sheer size and great location, and guests can expect bustling shops and nightlife venues that are packed with both guests and Honolulu locals. It has an adults-only infinity pool with a great view of Waikiki Bay, and another pool with a 70-foot waterslide.

Turtle Bay Resort : For travelers wanting to be in the North Shore area, this hotel offers five miles of oceanfront. There are 408 rooms, with 42 bungalows facing the picturesque North Shore. With  650 acres of conservation space to roam around on, plus typical resort activities like lei making, wood carving lessons, a spa, and Paniolo, a Hawaiian cowboy lūʻau, you’ll get the ultimate Hawaiian experience during your stay.

Days 8 to 10: Kauai

In contrast to Oahu, Kauai is less developed and more rugged, offering a beautiful, lush landscape for travelers seeking a laid-back and adventure-filled getaway. Although other Hawaiian islands have ample greenery, waterfalls, and gorgeous beaches, Kauai is nicknamed “Garden Island” for the tropical rainforest covering much of its land. It’s an ideal place for travelers who love hiking, kayaking, and snorkeling. Plus, helicopter tours are popular for those looking to see the terrain featured in “Jurassic Park” from above. Don’t miss Waimea Canyon State Park, known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” thanks to the 10-mile-long and 3,600-foot deep canyon. Travelers can hike, drive, or take a helicopter tour of the park.

Along the north shore is the area of Princeville , which is convenient for sightseeing and offers several luxury resorts, golf courses, and pretty beaches. Visitors are also close to Queens Bath, a swimmable sinkhole where snorkelers can spot colorful fish and sea turtles. (Pro tip: Go at low tide, when the waves are calm, and wear hiking shoes.) Princeville is near the Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park, which is famous for its mountainous shoreline that stretches 17 miles. While many opt to see the park by boat or helicopter, adventurers can make a reservation to hike the 11-mile Kalalau Trail, where they’ll be rewarded with waterfalls, beaches, and spectacular cliff and ocean views.

On the east coast, close to the Lihue Airport, is Wailua, which offers several affordable hotel options, multiple grocery stores and fast-food outlets, and the oceanfront Wailua Golf Course. Outdoor activities abound, including driving to Opaeka‘a Falls and Wailua Falls, hiking the two-mile Sleeping Giant Trail with gorgeous vistas, and lounging along one of the many beaches. Heading to the southern coast, travelers will find Poipu , which has a few golf courses, a surf school, a gorgeous beach, and the Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail that runs along the coast.

Where to Stay in Kauai

Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa : One of the best luxury resorts on Kauai, this 602-room property is located in Poipu and draws travelers with spacious, Hawaiian-inspired rooms, three incredible pools, a massive saltwater lagoon, tons of dining options, a posh spa, a twice-weekly luau, and immaculate tropical grounds.

Princeville Resort : The 251-room Princeville Resort is considered by many to be the premier luxury option in Hawaii, and given the stunning setting overlooking Hanalei Bay, it’s hard to disagree. Guests can expect warm, sophisticated decor, suites with personal butler service, world-class golf, and a memorable breakfast buffet on a terrace with gorgeous ocean views.

Kauai Marriott Resort : This 356-room upscale resort is located close to the airport, attracting travelers with a beautiful beachfront setting, a Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course, and one of the largest pools in Hawaii. Rooms have balconies, flat-screen TVs, and coffeemakers.

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A 9-Day Trip to Maui

My family took a trip to Hawaii for spring break in 2021. It was our first time visiting the state of Hawaii. We had 11 days to visit Hawaii from the east coast of the US. Travelling took about two days, so we had 9 days to be tourists in Maui.

Originally I planned to spend my 50th birthday in Hawaii, the last US state to visit in my 50 before 50 quest. If COVID has taught me anything, it is that plans can get ruined quickly. My husband and I are both vaccinated; we all really needed to get away after the past year, and Hawaii is a cautious state. So we decided to move it up on our list and visit now.

Table of Contents

Why Did We Pick Maui to Spend Our Time On?

I am a huge fan of the ocean, volcanoes, and sea turtles, which was my draw to visiting the Hawaiian Islands.

I’m not too fond of crowds or big cities, so Oahu wasn’t high on my list for my first visit to Hawaii.

I would love to visit rural and lush Kaui, but it tends to be rainier, and we were traveling in a rainy season, so we figured Kaui would be better to visit in the winter.

Originally we planned to fly into Maui, then spend the rest of the time on the Big Island, but travel restrictions would make this complicated, and we wanted simple. Our boys wanted to have a lot to do, so Maui seemed like the best choice.

How Many Days in Maui?

As I mentioned originally, we had only planned to spend four days in Maui. That would have been quite a mistake. There is so much to do in Maui I would suggest visiting at least a week. Even with 9 days, I feel as though I just scratched the surface and would love to return and spend more time doing many things again and go on a few long hikes. I would also love more time to spend whole days at the beach.

A Beginner’s Guide to Maui

• Maui is the second-largest of the Hawaiian islands, at 727 square miles.
• The largest peak on Maui is Mount Haleakala, a dormant volcano.
• All of Maui’s 80 beaches are public and accessible to anyone, even those in front of exclusive resorts. For a very few, such as the black sand beach near Hana, you need a reservation for parking.
• There are beaches of many colors- red, white, gold and red.
• Maui’s origins are volcanic. Although it hasn’t had an active eruption for at least 400 years, you will see ample evidence of its volcanic past.
• Maui is shaped like a number 8 on its side, with the smaller side of the eight being facing north and containing Ka’anapali and Hana sitting somewhere around the bottom.
• Because it is ultimately two mountains peeking out from the ocean, there are two big mountains surrounded by the shoreline. That means almost everywhere you are has a water view!
• The sides of the island are referred to as windward and leeward. The leeward side is protected from the winds by the mountains. It also tends to get less rain. Kaanapali, Wailea, and Kihei are on the leeward side. The road to Hana and Pā’ia are on the windward side of the island.
• Because of the mountains and winds, you will find very different weather depending on where you are on the island. If it is lousy where you are, consider driving somewhere else.
• The weather also tends to change quickly. You can often wait an hour, and a rainy sky will become sunny with a gorgeous rainbow.
• Even though Maui is smaller than the state of Rhode Island , it takes a long time to drive anywhere due to the hilly, winding roads and mountains in the way.
• If you don’t want to stay around your resort, you will need to rent a car.
• There are many green sea turtles (honu) on Maui, even a few hawksbill sea turtles. You can easily view many during your time. They are still a threatened or endangered species, and it is illegal to get within ten feet of them. Be respectful to these peaceful creatures.
• You can easily see a few islands from many spots in Maui. From the west side, you can see Lana’i, Molokai, the Molokini Crater, and Kaho’olawe. On a clear day, you can see the Big Island from the south side.

Where to Stay in Maui

Each of the areas of Maui has its own personalities and positives and negatives. I will present a few options to you, but there are so many options.

Kihei is an energetic town with many options for food and activity. It is also the most convenient spot to access the rest of the island, as it is centrally located. There are many Airbnb condo options here, but not as many resorts on the beach. It gets relatively less rain, which is a huge plus. If you are looking for a getaway from civilization, this may not be your best choice. However, if you are looking for the most convenient place to stay, look no further.

This is a very upscale, verdant, cliff-filled area just south of Kihei.

Grand Wailea Hotel

Located on the outskirts of Kihei on cliffs overlooking the ocean, if you are up for a splurge, consider staying in this Waldorf-Astoria property. The Waldorf-Astoria that we stayed in overlooking Edinburgh Castle was one of my favorite sleeps of my life.

West Maui includes Lahaina, Kaannapali and Kapalua. It is lush but is not very rainy and has excellent snorkeling. It is fairly far away from everything. It feels like you are on a distant island from mainland USA.

We stayed in Kaanapali because we wanted a room on a beautiful beach with great snorkeling and little rain. We loved this area and would definitely stay here again. You can walk from your room straight off the beach and get some of the best snorkeling on the island. The only negative is that it is far from everything. We loved the nearby town of Lahaina as well. This area reminds me of the Hotel Zone in Cancun, Mexico , with large resorts with pools along a flat, white sand beach.

Westin Kaanapali Ocean Resorts Villas

Being a family of five, a villa with separate rooms is a necessity for us. We loved that our villa had a kitchen, grills, and in-room washer and dryer. Although there are not many food choices on the property, there is a shuttle between this hotel and all the other Kaanapali Beach hotels. My only criticism of the property is the botanical design. Although beautiful, the tall trees impede the “oceanview” rooms. If you really want an ocean view, you need to book an “oceanfront” room. The room price is reasonable for what you get.

Sheraton Maui

If we didn’t need a villa, I would stay at the Sheraton. It sits perched on Black Rock which has incredible snorkeling and a sunset ritual.

We loved this hippie-vibe town along the east coast of Maui, right at the beginning of the Hana Highway. There are many great restaurants and beaches to choose from here. We especially loved Flatbread Company but also heard good things about Paia Fish Market.  If you plan to spend a lot of time exploring the road to Hana and Upcountry Maui, this may be a good choice. Because it is on the windward side of the island, the waves tend to be bigger.

Search for a hotel room in Paia.

If you have time to spend two days exploring the road to Hana, it would be ideal to spend one night in Hana. Many native people lived in this far-flung town in the 1950s, but the population is now less than 1,000.

There are few hotels here. You can check out the Hana-Maui Resort or check Airbnb.

One Week in Maui, A Maui Itinerary

Day one in maui.

The first day you arrive, you will likely only have a half-day in Maui. Check into your hotel and get acclimated. Be sure to see your first Maui sunset . They are quite impressive. They last a long time and tend to be extra colorful, perhaps because of the volcanic ash in the air.

Tamura’s Fine Wine

I know this will sound strange, but the best poke bowl we had in Hawaii was by the airport in a liquor store. It was so good, we ate here three times. It only offers takeout, giving the perfect excuse to have a small picnic or pull over by a random spot by the ocean to eat. You will find yourself pulling over at random spots often. And all the food in Hawaii is expensive.

But I digress. You will find the poke in the rear of the store at a deli counter.

Ululani’s Shave Ice

Another food that you will encounter often and won’t get enough of is shave ice. Although Ululani’s wasn’t our favorite shave ice shop, it is ubiquitous, and there is a kiosk near the airport.

Watch the Sunset

Day 2 in maui.

Explore Kihei, Makena, and Wailea

Maluaka beach.

We started our day at Maluaka Beach, also known as turtle town, because seeing a sea turtle swimming in the wild was a huge goal in Maui. Ironically this was the only time we were in the water that we did not see a turtle, but others around us did. I have seen sea turtles in the wild in Tulum  but have never seen as many turtles as I did in our week in Maui.

Park in the free lot, then take a short walk along the road to the beach. The best snorkeling and most turtles are on the far side of the beach from the lot.

Walk the Grounds of the Keawala’i Congregational Church

This active stone church built in 1832 sits on the shoreline and has a lovely graveyard and many birds.

Visit the Upscale Shops at Wailea

Have Lunch on the Patio at Tommy Bahamas, followed by dessert at Lappert’s. The ice creams center around local coffee and are extraordinary.

Walk the Wailea Oceanfront Boardwalk Trail

This 3.5-mile paved trail meanders along the beach. We picked the trail up at Ulea Beach, which has free parking and bathrooms. If you want more snorkeling, this is also a great place. My boys actually did a SCUBA dive here. To snorkel, walk in off the beach to the right.

End Your Day with The Best Shaved Ice on Maui

We tried a lot of shave ice while on Maui. The owner of Peace Love and Shave Ice told us that we were about to have the best shave ice, and he was right. We loved it so much we ended up making our way there three times.

Everyone in my family loved this shave ice best, and we all ordered different things. My oldest son and I agree on our favorite flavor combination- If You Like Piña Colada, which combines coconut and pineapple with coconut cream ice cream on the bottom. Luca also added a snowcap and dried coconut on the top.

Day 3 in Maui

Explore Southwest Maui

The most recent volcanic eruptions happened in this area of the island about 400 years ago.

Hike the Hoapili Trail

This 5.5-mile trail was traveled by Hawaiian royalty. At times parts of it are closed to protect breeding animals. It is long and dry without much shade. There are no spots to refill drinking water, and you will want good shoes to deal with the pointed lava rocks.

I was so happy to have my Olukai shoes with me on Maui. They are waterproof yet have a good grip and look nice enough I could wear them anywhere. I am an Amazon affiliate, so I will receive a commission if you get them through this link. You can also buy them in the Whaler shopping center in Lahaina.

Snorkel off the Lava Beaches

You can snorkel the La Parouse Bay, which is at the very end of Makena Alanui Road. We only had half a day for this excursion because two of my kids were getting their SCUBA certification. I will write about that later, so stay tuned.

Partially because of this time constraint and partially because of the advice of a forest ranger, we didn’t quite go all the way down to La Parouse. We did our hike and snorkel from the Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve. It also contains some of the King’s Trail, but the ranger told us that we would see more fish because it is a nature sanctuary where no fishing is allowed. The snorkeling was easy and beautiful but definitely requires water shoes.

If you are Headed to Mama’s Stop at Ho’okipa Beach Park

If you aren’t and you are a turtle fan, be sure to visit another evening. They don’t know why, but hundreds of giant sea turtles come to shore to rest here every evening. Enter on the far side of the parking lot and park near the main beach. Walk to the water and look to your right. The turtles blend right in with the huge rocks. You will see a sign keeping you far enough away from the turtles, but you will be close enough to see these magnificent creatures.

Spoil Yourself with a Fancy Dinner on the Water

We visited Mama’s Fish House this evening. The fish dishes and food are perfect. To get a reservation around sunset, you need to book many months in advance. If you can’t get in here, some other ideas are Pacific’o, Dukes, and The Plantation House. Before I visited, I was concerned with spending the day out in the water and needing to eat before heading back to the room. Maui is very laid back, and most beaches have public showers. I felt comfortable in every restaurant just throwing a sundress over my bathing suit and brushing my hair.

Day 4 on Maui

Explore the Molokini Crater

The Molokini Crater lies between Maui and Kaho’olawe. You must take a boat out to snorkel or SCUBA this crescent-shaped volcanic crater. We SCUBA dove the reef within the crater, and it was the clearest spot on all our underwater time. An amiable and rare hawksbill turtle even made friends with us the crater.

We dove from the Maui Diamond , and our experience was perfect. I can’t say enough about Maddie, Joe, and the crew.

Explore Molokini snorkel tours.

This dive was actually my sons’ certification dive. Read on about how they trained to SCUBA dive and got certified in Maui!

Old Lahaina Luau

If you are in Hawaii for the first time, you should be sure to attend a Laua. Not only will you get to eat a traditional Hawaiian meal, but you also learn about the culture of the native people through stories and traditional dance. We attended Old Lāhainā Lūʻau , which got great reviews from everyone I spoke to. It happens on a beautiful beach at sunset and requires reservations.

Day 5 in Maui

This was one of our favorite days in Maui. Hawaii’s past is deeply rooted in agriculture. Much of this agriculture has stopped as land and jobs move over to tourism. This island which used to be covered by sugar cane fields now has empty grassy fields. But I came across two farms that are still working and offer tours. They were kind enough to host my family, and we are so thankful that they did. I will write longer posts about each visit in the future, so stay tuned.

Maui Pineapple Tour

This visit into Maui Gold’s pineapple fields was our first experience of upcountry Maui. You feel like you are in a different world. When I asked my youngest son what he was most excited about before visiting, eating tropical fruits was his answer. This was the perfect way to spend a day with him and was one of his favorite parts of visiting Maui. We learned about the fruit and ate the sweetest, most decadent pineapple we have ever had, picked right from the fields.

Read all about our Maui Pineapple Tour.

Maui Chocolate Tour

Not only did we get to see cocoa plants in the wild and engage all our senses in learning about my favorite food, but we also learned about this respect-worthy company that was opened to serve local charities and provide jobs. You can book a chocolate tasting in town to try the rich and delicious chocolate infused with fruit flavors of Maui or get out into the fields with the VIP tour. Our tasting happened in a luxurious treehouse overlooking the cocoa fields and the ocean.

Day 6 in Maui

When I was asked people to recommend what to do on Maui, about 3/4ths of people said to drive the road to Hana. The other quarter strongly suggested against it. Why the difference? Now that I have experienced it I understand and I will write a whole post on why and how I think you should spend at least one day on this highway that is 45 miles long, has 59 bridges, and 600 hairpin turns. Stay tuned for that post.

Day 7 in Maui

Haleakalā is a 10,000-foot dormant volcano that forms the southern part of Maui. Spend a day exploring it in some way or another. I will also write a whole post on that.

Day 8 in Maui

Day 9 in maui.

Like many people, we flew out in the afternoon, so had the morning to spend saying A hui hou (until we meet again) to Maui.

We started by revisiting a breakfast favorite we had found, Betsy’s Beach Cafe in Lahaina. Chilaquiles are one of our favorite dishes and the banana macadamia pancakes with coconut syrup are the perfect Hawaiin breakfast. We also really loved the quirky Java Jazz, but it lacks a waterview.

Iao Valley State Park

We spent our last moments on Maui at this calm, lush, and peaceful valley which is close to the airport. Well, it felt very calm to me with its babbling river, gardens, and looming green mountains, but it was the location of one of the largest battles in the Hawaiian war over the islands. There is a cost both for parking and to enter the park.

Food to Try on Maui

Car Rental on Maui

We couldn’t have don’t this itinerary without a car. Everything in Maui is very far away. Originally I had booked through a large rental car company. Then I had seen on a helpful Maui Facebook page to look into local companies. We ended up getting a car for much less money from Maui Car Rentals. They made everything very easy for us and we were very happy with the rental. The car wasn’t at all fancy, but fit my large family’s needs perfectly.

In conclusion, we spent our first week on Maui and loved every second of it. We adored the varied landscapes, volcanic, farms and lush valleys. We had many memorable turtle and wildlife encounters and enjoyed every sunset together.

Read on for books to read about Maui.

What is your favorite thing about Maui? If you have any questions please leave them in the comment section.

If you liked it, please share it. Thank you!

5 thoughts on “A 9-Day Trip to Maui”

I love this – so much to do and see on Maui! I like to look at the beach but don’t really sit on one so an island with lovely beaches, snorkelling, hiking, volcanoes, craters, turtles etc etc sounds wonderful. Fabulous food too! I Googled Poke when you first mentioned it as I had never heard of it, but your description further down was much better than the one I found. Really like the idea of staying in a beach front villa too (great tip here!). I have only been to Oahu and that was many years ago. Really enjoyed it, but would love to visit Maui next time I am in Hawaii.

I’ve only been to Oahu and wish I would have made the visit to Maui. It looks absolutely breathtaking. I have never experienced a Laua and would love to learn more about the culture and the traditional dance.

What an amazing family holiday you had. I’ve only been to Oahu and Maui will be on my list for the next visit. So much to see and do.

It genuinely made me so happy to read about a trip that you were able to take this year! We are on the road to returning to normal and that’s so exciting for travelers! I’ve been to Oahu a number of times but I like being in the city, so I can see why you opted for Maui instead. I totally agree that a good luau is a must in Hawaii at least once. And I’d really love to check out all the different color beaches here. It’s nice to know that they’re all public and that resorts can’t block off access.

Mauii is my dream destination now. You 9 day itinerary is wonderfully planned. The different colored beaches seems like a dream to me. The chocolate and pineapple tour, both are high in my list of things to do there.

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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 .

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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Hawaii Island is the largest of the islands and sits at the southernmost part of the chain. A temperamental youngest sibling of the family, this island is full of drama, adventure, and natural beauty. Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, tour a local coffee plantation, stroll seaside villages, travel back in time at Puukoholo Heiau National Historic Site, and stand at the southernmost point of the United States where nothing but ocean separates you from Antarctica.

Kauai is the oldest of the islands and keeps watch over the others from the northernmost point of the chain. With age comes beauty and the dramatic landscape of Kauai reflects this sentiment. Hike Waimea Canyon and gaze at the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, trek the Koloa Heritage Trail for a glimpse of the past, visit local botanical gardens for their tropical treasures, tour cascading waterfalls, and helicopter out to the Na Pali coastline for the ultimate vantage point.

Maui is the second-largest island and just to the north of Hawaii Island. Known for famous beaches and championship golf courses, Maui delivers an experience filled with magic and beauty to visitors. Witness an awe-inspiring sunrise at Haleakala, snorkel with sea turtles at Molokini, stroll the eclectic shops in Lahaina and witness a ceremonial cliff dive at Black Rock.

Sandwiched between Kauai and Maui is the bustling island of Oahu. The most populated in the chain, Oahu offers a unique blend of modern and ancient influences. Transforming the southern coastline is the city of Honolulu while monster waves rule the northern coast. Reflect on U.S. history at Pearl Harbor, stroll through the pineapple maze at the Dole Plantation, hike the Diamond Head crater for unobstructed views of Waikiki Beach, visit the new International Market Place, and watch big wave surfers tackle the Banzai Pipeline.

There is indeed an island for every personality. Find your Hawaii, find your paradise.

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Before You Go

• To make it easier to replace your passport if it’s lost or stolen, in addition to your passport, take a photocopy of your passport information page (keeping it separate from your actual passport).
• Carry only a limited amount of cash, just enough for gratuities and incidental purchases. Major credit cards are widely accepted and can be replaced if lost or stolen.
• Always lock your hotel room door (including patio and balcony door on any level of the building) and use the peephole before opening the door.
• Store your valuables (such as cash, credit cards and airline tickets) in the hotel’s in-room safe or front desk safety deposit box.
• If you must carry valuables on your person, do so in a pouch or money belt concealed under your clothing. Purses and backpacks can be easy targets for thieves.
• For complete and current safety and security information, including travelers' tips, public announcements, travel advisories and more, please visit the website of the U.S. Department of State at www.travel.state.gov.
• December through February: 76° to 75° (Winter)
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• June through August: 80° to 82° (Summer)
• September through November: 82° to 78° (Autumn)

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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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9-DAY ITINERARY

Travel day .

Travel to Lihue, Kauai, Hawaii

Rent car, drive to Kekaha

Check-in at Air BnB in evening 

Awa'awapuhi Trail Hike 

Morning to Early Afternoon:

Hike Awa'awapuhi Trail on the Beautiful Nāpali Coast 

Late Afternoon:

Kekaha Beach

Explore the Garden Island by Car

Drive to Kapa'a - short hike, Sleeping Giant Trail

Lydgate State Park, Kapa'a

Lunch, Fish Express

Keālia Beach

Kīlauea Lighthouse

Wailua Shave Ice

Day on the Nāpali Coast with Blue Ocean Adventure Tours  

All day, unforgettable adventure on a high-speed inflatable boat

Tour includes swimming, snorkeling, a cultural tour, dolphins, and if the timing is right, whale-watching

Ziplining with Outfitters Kauai

Breakfast stop at Aloha Sweet Delights 

Kauai Coffee Company, self-guided tour

Visit Sea Turtles at Poipu Beach Park

Ziplining at Outfitters Kauai 

Poipu Farmer's Market & Dinner at Da Crack

Hiking the Pihea Trail to Alakai Swamp in Koke'e State Park

Pihea Trail to Alakai Swamp in Koke'e State Park, Kauai, is an 8-mile epic out-and-back trail that follows a ridge-line on the Nāpali Coast

Kayaking on the Wailua River

Morning: Kayaking on the Wailua River with Kauai Kayak Tours, includes a short hike to Uluwehi Falls aka Secret Falls

Lunch out then Beach Time in Afternoon at Kekaha Beach 

Waimea Canyon Hike + Beach Time

 Hike Canyon Trail to Waipoo Falls in Waimea Canyon

Beach time in afternoon

TIP:   We stopped at Safeway in Lihue on our way to the AirB&B. There is also a Big Save in Waimea if you miss this stop.  

TIP: Bring lots of reef safe sunblock as you will be in the sun all day. Hats tend to fly off in this high-speed boat.

TIP: Arrive early to beat the trail traffic. Also, hiking sandals or other hiking shoes that can get wet and muddy. See our blog post for other important tips for this unforgettable hiking experience. 

Travel Home

BLOGS - KAUAI, HAWAII

Kauai, Hawaii (Day 7): Waimea Canyon Hike + Beach Time

Kauai, Hawaii (Day 6): Kayaking on the Wailua River

Kauai, Hawaii (Day 5): Hiking the Pihea Trail to Alakai Swamp in Koke'e State Park

Kauai, Hawaii (Day 4): Every Good Vacation Should Have a Touch of Adrenaline, Right?

Kauai, Hawaii (Day 3): An Unforgettable Day on the Nāpali Coast with Blue Ocean Adventure Tours

Kauai, Hawaii (Day 2): Exploring the Garden Island by Car

Kauai, Hawaii (Day 1): Hiking the Awa'awapuhi Trail on the Beautiful Nāpali Coast

Kauai, Hawaii

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The Best of Hawaii

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Uniquely Tauck

EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK

Private evening with an after-hours tour, reception and dinner at Queen Emma Summer Palace on the island of Oahu, the secluded mountain-home and summer retreat of Queen Emma of Hawaii and her family

Pre-opening visit to magnificent Iolani Palace, the opulent official residence of Hawaii's former monarchy

Helicopter flightseeing on Kauai

Hawaiian feasts for the senses in Maui – an evening of dance, song and exotic flavors at a traditional Hawaiian luau

TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES

Stay in ocean-view rooms at stunning beachfront island resorts all 11 nights

A visit to the USS  Missouri  Battleship Memorial in Pearl Harbor

Guests should be able to easily walk one to two miles, which may include climbing one or two flights of stairs and walking over uneven pavement, groomed hiking trails or cobblestones. Standing up to one hour or more may be required.

Moderately paced, and may include some early morning hotel departures, one or two on-tour flights, and extended motor coach travel.

Legendary Journeys and Adventures

Tauck's classic four-island journey across Hawaii incorporates natural and historical sights, exclusive cultural experiences, and free days to pursue your own passions on Oahu, the Big Island of Hawaii, Kauai and Maui.

Fairmont kea lani, maui.

Nights 9, 10, 11

Enjoy three nights in Maui at a luxury oceanfront resort

Your stay at Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui – an all-suite luxury resort – will be memorable. The resort was artfully redesigned and renovated in 2023, with guest rooms incorporating more local culture, textures and artwork that blend ancient Hawaii with modern. Renovations include a newly reimagined open-air lobby complete with flowing waterfalls, lush gardens, and breathtaking ocean views – and just beyond the lobby, discover the new Hale Kukuna, an immersive space dedicated to Hawaiian culture, designed to inspire deeper connections to Maui and Hawaii.

Travel aboard an outrigger canoe

Ancient meets modern day on the waves.

On the island of Oahu you'll have an opportunity to discover a bit of old Hawaii on a unique adventure aboard a traditional outrigger canoe. From paddling the boat, to riding the waves, to the possibility of observing some of the Pacific Ocean's marine life, your experience will give you a modern take on ancient Hawaiian transportation (they've been around for two millennia) between islands.

Kauai helicopter sightseeing

Kauai – rainforests & mountains (45 - 55 minute adventure).

In addition to sightseeing by land, you'll truly get immersed in the beauty of the island of Kauai on an amazing helicopter adventure that reveals a world of lush tropical rainforests, jagged mountains, sea cliffs, beaches and craters. Music and narration combine as you view the best of the island, including spectacular Waimea Canyon and views of the Na Pali Cliffs.

Private evening at Queen Emma Summer Palace

Attend a private, after-hours tour, reception and dinner at queen emma summer palace.

Known as Hānaiakamalama (The Southern Cross), or Queen Emma Summer Palace, the palace served as a summer retreat for Queen Emma of Hawaii from 1857 to 1885, as well as for her husband King Kamehameha IV, and their son, Prince Albert Edward. It is a now a historic landmark, museum – and it's the site of a special Tauck welcome evening featuring a private after-hours reception, tour and dinner.

Early opening visit to Iolani Palace

Before the day's crowds, visit honolulu's extraordinary iolani palace.

Built in 1882 by King Kalakaua, Iolani Palace in Honolulu was Hawaii's official royal residence and the Hawaiian monarchy's seat of government until its overthrow in 1893. A National Historic Landmark since 1962 and the only official royal residence in the United States, the Palace is one of Hawaii's most recognizable buildings; restored to its former grandeur, it evokes a time when their Majesties King Kalakaua and his sister and successor, Queen Liliuokalani, walked its grand halls. An exclusive guided visit, before the day's crowds, provides insights and stories into the palace's rich legacy.

Hawaii is my idea of Paradise, beautiful islands, gorgeous resorts, friendly people. The trip had a nice balance of organized activities and leisure time.

Tauck Traveler Review

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All the information you need for this journey at your fingertips – day-by-day details, map, hotel descriptions, key highlights and more.

Where you stay is an important part of your journey – with Tauck, accommodations have been handpicked and carefully selected for their location and ambiance, enhancing the destinations you explore. Download accommodation details and your travel plans begin!

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Overnight Accommodations

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Arrive Early

The royal hawaiian, a luxury collection resort.

Waikiki, Oahu

Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii

Kohala Coast, Big Island

Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa

Koloa, Kauai

Nights 9-11

Maui, Hawaii

Your Journey

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About Booking This Tour

Travel Documents

The Best of Hawaii begins and ends in the U.S.

Real ID Act - Effective May 7, 2025

Beginning in May 2025, some state IDs will no longer permit you to board a domestic flight. Currently, some states are compliant, some have received extensions, and some are not compliant.  Click here  to see the status of your state. If your state license is not compliant, you can use a passport in lieu of a valid state ID. 

Please Note:  The federal government has extended the deadline to May 7, 2025 for domestic airline passengers to secure a Real ID driver's license for use as identification at the airport. Travelers without a verified license or ID card will also have the option of showing other identity documents, such as a passport or military ID to board a plane.

If you are a citizen of another country traveling to the U.S., you should contact an embassy or consulate of the U.S. to determine what travel documentation is necessary. You may also log on to the U.S. State Department's Internet site by clicking here.

If you are traveling by air to join and/or depart from this tour within the U.S., please read the section entitled Airline Security Measures under Additional Information above to determine what travel documentation is required.

If you are a citizen of the U.S. or Canada who travels frequently between the two countries, you may benefit from the NEXUS program, which is joint initiative between the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency and the Canada Border Services Agency that allows pre-screened and approved travelers faster processing at designated highway lanes in high-volume border crossing locations, at a NEXUS kiosk at several airports, and at certain marine reporting locations in the Great Lakes and Seattle regions. For further information, you may log on to the Nexus Internet website by clicking here.

Please note that longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

Note: For activities marked with an asterisk (*) in day-by-day descriptions, participation is at your own risk; a signed liability waiver will be required.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposit & Final Payment

The deposit and the fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $350 per person

Final Payment:

Final Payment for Land Journeys is due at Tauck's Wilton Woods, CT office 60 days before departure. Any bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice.

Travel Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Guest Protection

Tauck's Guest Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the land tour cost, based on your original method of payment.

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.

Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  If you must cancel your tour due to a covered reason, the plan provides coverage for the amount you paid for your travel arrangements. Since the non-insurance cancellation waiver takes care of the land package cancellation fees already, this benefit reimburses the airfare cancellation charges up to the value of your original airfare purchase.
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.
• Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Guest Protection is: $449  per person

This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Guest Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included with initial payment. Fees are based on costs as of July 1, 2021, and are subject to change. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your tour reservation. Guest Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

The Guest Protection plan waives cancellation fees outlined below, provided we are notified of cancellation before your tour departs. Tour cancellation fees are waived regardless of reason, without written notice, and Tauck will refund land tour cost.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACGPPINTL .

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees. If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Guest Protection Plan:

Loss of Guest Protection fee, per person

Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Guest Protection Plan :

60 days or more before departure = $350 per person

59-8 days before departure = $600 per person

7-1 days before departure = $900 per person

Time of cancellation  will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control,  Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.

Note:  All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Fee Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Guest Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here  to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Special Luggage Restrictions for this Tour

The U.S. TSA has instituted standardized screening procedures at airports across the U.S. At some airports in Hawaii, this procedure is handled manually and will be time-consuming. Please be aware that you will not have access to your bags after they are screened; therefore, you should remove everything that you may want to take on the plane with you before you hand over your checked bag for screening.

Checked Luggage – General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Carry-on Luggage - General

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

Please Note:  Destinations around the world have instituted new measures like testing requirements, health insurance coverage, or specific restrictions on travel. These guidelines are in addition to, and may go beyond, Tauck's requirements.  Click here  for more information about the requirements for your journey.

VACCINATIONS  

If you are a resident of another country traveling to or within the U.S., no vaccinations are currently required for travel to Hawaii. For complete vaccination and inoculation information, contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia. The Travelers' Health Section of the CDC operates a 24-hour "Travelers' Health Hotline" at 800-232-4636 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking here.

While your journey to Hawaii is very relaxing and the pace leisurely, to enjoy fully all the tour has to offer, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, as some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. For the most part, however, the amount of walking you do is at your discretion.

If you require the use of a wheelchair throughout the tour, it is advisable to bring your own. Wheelchairs are available on all islands at all hotels and may be arranged by the tour directors; however, they are intended for on-site use and cannot be taken off property. In addition, wheelchairs are available at the airports for pre-boarding purposes only. There are disabled access bathrooms with grab bars in all of the hotels.

PLEASE NOTE: We regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs. The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

Regarding Portable Oxygen

The Best of Hawaii tours travel to Haleakala National Park on Maui, an elevation of 10,023 ft (3,055 m). The motor coach drivers and Tauck Directors do forewarn guests with heart and respiratory problems of the elevation and that they may encounter sulfur fumes from the volcano. Specific information concerning volcanic emissions in the state of Hawaii may be found by clicking here .

Oxygen is not carried aboard motor coaches and the drivers are not certified to administer oxygen. Oxygen is a hazardous material as the container is compressed. You are allowed to carry your own providing it does not exceed one hundred pounds per one unit. You need to have proper training on how to use it, and your companion must also be certified in case you are rendered unconscious. A prescription from a doctor plus proof of certification from the Red Cross on how to use it is needed for any purchase of oxygen. It is recommended that you carry the proper paperwork along with your personal supply in case additional canisters are required while on tour. You are responsible for any maintenance and operation that the tank requires while on tour, and for locating what facilities exist on the tour itinerary which can perform tank maintenance. You are also responsible for emptying the tank prior to embarking all tour planes, floatplanes, or helicopters and refilling the tank at a designated facility. You will need to provide us with the exact specifications of the tank, including size, model, and all components that accompany it, prior to booking the tour to determine motor coach storage capabilities.

If you require oxygen on inter-island flights, Hawaiian Airlines stipulates that you MUST have a doctor's certificate written within 30 days of travel. This certificate must include the rate of flow (meters per minute) and whether you require a mask or nasal cannula. This certificate needs to be sent to the Hawaiian Airlines office at least 48 hours in advance of the flight. There are 3 on-tour flights on this tour. Once you have requested the airline for oxygen you MUST use it. Hawaiian Airlines flights reach a cruising altitude of between 12-24,000 ft (3,657 to 7,315 m), become pressurized at 5,000 ft (1,524 m) and average 78°F (26°C).

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey! You can view the reading list  here.

The temperature in Hawaii averages 75 ºF (24 ºC) all year long. An average high temperature of 83 ºF (28 ºC) is reached in August. Winters are nearly as mild with an average low temperature of 69 ºF (21 ºC), and sunny weather occurs throughout the year. Although the weather is nearly perfect, Hawaii does have a tropical climate and it does rain from time to time. Very few days of touring are interrupted by rain. When it does rain, it usually occurs during the night. The rainy season is December through March; however, a light shower is possible at any time of the year.

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov.us, by clicking here.

What To Pack

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with Necessary Gear who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site .

We suggest you dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is flexible and allows for layering. Casual, cotton clothing is recommended. Women often dress in bright pastels or other vibrant hues. Sun hats, aloha shirts and floral print muumuus are customarily worn and are readily found in stores on all the islands. For fine dining, dresses are recommended, as are light wraps for evenings. For men, coats and ties are rarely worn in hotels, but "aloha shirts" and dress pants are perfectly acceptable. Men are requested to wear long pants in the evening.

Bathrobes, hairdryers, irons and ironing boards are provided in each hotel guest room.

Valet laundry and dry-cleaning services are available at all the hotels on this itinerary.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription, or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.

We recommend you pack the following items for your journey to Hawaii:

• Sturdy but comfortable walking shoes that have already been broken-in for sightseeing
• Aloha shirts and dress pants for men
• Sundresses and cocktail dresses for ladies
• A light wrap for evenings
• Colorful resort wear
• Short and long-sleeved cotton shirts
• Shorts and slacks
• Light jacket, sweater or windbreaker
• Raincoat and rain hat
• Collapsible umbrella
• Insect repellent
• Camera, lenses, batteries, chargers and extra memory cards
• Daypack for camera equipment
• Travel alarm clock/cell phone with alarm function (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms)
• Reusable zipper lock bags or other waterproof bags
• Copies of your travel documents that should be safely secured in the safe in your hotel room while traveling

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• Best Romantic Hotels for Couples in Hawaii
• Best Hotels for Scuba Diving in Hawaii
• Best Business Hotels in Hawaii
• Is Hawaii Expensive?
• How much does a trip to Hawaii cost?
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• How much does it cost to travel to Hawaii? (Average Daily Cost)
• Hawaii trip costs: one week, two weeks, one month

Is Hawaii expensive to visit?

• How much do I need for a trip to Hawaii?
• Accommodation, Food, Entertainment, and Transportation Costs
• Travel Guide

How much does it cost to travel to Hawaii?

You should plan to spend around $342 per day on your vacation in Hawaii. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

• $77 on meals
• $37 on local transportation
• $427 on hotels

A one week trip to Hawaii for two people costs, on average, $4,782 . This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

• Travel Style: All Budget (Cheap) Mid-Range Luxury (High-End)
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day $ 342
• One Week Per person $ 2,391
• 2 Weeks Per person $ 4,782
• One Month Per person $ 10,248
• One Week For a couple $ 4,782
• 2 Weeks For a couple $ 9,565
• One Month For a couple $ 20,495

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Hawaii cost?

A one week trip to Hawaii usually costs around $2,391 for one person and $4,782 for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Hawaii on average costs around $4,782 for one person and $9,565 for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Hawaii will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Hawaii on average costs around $10,248 for one person and $20,495 for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Independent Travel

Traveling Independently to Hawaii has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Hawaii is a somewhat more expensive place to visit. Located in the United States of America, which is a moderately priced country, visitors will need to plan for the extra expenses of this destination. It is in the top 25% of cities in the country for its overall travel expenses. When visiting, expect to pay somewhat higher prices for accommodation, food, and activities.

Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Hawaii is a somewhat more expensive destination compared to other places. It is in the top 25% of cities in North America for its travel costs. While some cities in the region are more expensive, Hawaii is generally more expensive than most.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Hawaii Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Hawaii?

The average Hawaii trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Hawaii travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers.

Accommodation Budget in Hawaii

Average daily costs.

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid for one person for accommodation in Hawaii is $214. For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price paid for a hotel room in Hawaii is $427. This cost is from the reported spending of actual travelers.

• Accommodation 1 Hotel or hostel for one person $ 214
• Accommodation 1 Typical double-occupancy room $ 427

Hotel Prices in Hawaii

Looking for a hotel in Hawaii? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Transportation Budget in Hawaii

The cost of a taxi ride in Hawaii is significantly more than public transportation. On average, past travelers have spent $37 per person, per day, on local transportation in Hawaii.

• Transportation 1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. $ 37

Recommended Services

• Honolulu Private transfer to Airport/Port/Hotel (1-12 Passengers) Viator $ 129
• Honolulu Airport & Waikiki Hotels Private Transfer by SUV(up to 6 people) Viator $ 100

Flights to Hawaii

Rental cars in hawaii, food budget in hawaii.

While meal prices in Hawaii can vary, the average cost of food in Hawaii is $77 per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in Hawaii should cost around $31 per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner. The price of food in sit-down restaurants in Hawaii is often higher than fast food prices or street food prices.

• Food 2 Meals for one day $ 77

Recommended

• Private Sunset Dinner Horseback Ride Viator $ 251
• Hanalei, Kauaʻi Walking Food Tour Viator $ 129

Entertainment Budget in Hawaii

Entertainment and activities in Hawaii typically cost an average of $38 per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

• Entertainment 1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc. $ 38

The Go City Oahu Pass offers great discounts on attractions in Oahu. With the Go City Explorer pass, you can choose to visit specific sights and attractions at a discount. Or, you can visit as many included attractions as you like with a multi-day All-Inclusive Pass. The average visitor saves 30% off of the regular admission prices.

Recommended Activities

• Private Stand Up Paddle Boarding Tour in Turtle Town, Maui Viator $ 149
• Voted #1 on Maui. VIP, Private Road to Hana backstage pass tour Viator $ 299

Tips and Handouts Budget in Hawaii

The average cost for Tips and Handouts in Hawaii is $12 per day. The usual amount for a tip in Hawaii is 10% - 20% .

• Tips and Handouts 1 For guides or service providers $ 12

Alcohol Budget in Hawaii

The average person spends about $19 on alcoholic beverages in Hawaii per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

• Alcohol 2 Drinks for one day $ 19
• Maui Farm Distillery and local craft experience Full-Day Tour Viator $ 224
• Whiskey Tour - Koʻolau Distillery - Kailua, Hawai'i 96734 Viator $ 25

Water Budget in Hawaii

On average, people spend $15 on bottled water in Hawaii per day. The public water in Hawaii is considered safe to drink.

• Water 2 Bottled water for one day $ 15

Expert Advice from Local Travelers

We're asking our community members and registered users to contribute their experiences about Hawaii.

Why would you recommend Hawaii to budget travelers? Or, why not?

I think what makes Hawaii particularly expensive is that you really need to have a car to explore any of the islands in depth, and rental cars can be expensive.

Are you an experienced traveler? Help other travelers! Answer a quick question about your past travels. + Add Comment

Hawaii on a Budget

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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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Hawaii is often on the short list of dream destinations for a relaxing beach holiday. But a potential trip to paradise doesn’t happen without first asking the critical question: How much is a trip to Hawaii?

The answer varies depending on where you stay and when you travel. We’ve crunched the numbers to give you an idea of how much you can expect to spend so you’re better prepared to budget for a vacation in Hawaii.

Estimated Hawaii trip cost

Beachfront view of the Hilton Hawaiian Village in Waikiki. (Photo courtesy of Hilton)

We looked at the estimated costs of a 10-night trip for a family of four (two adults and two children) during the peak summer travel season, as well as a seven-night trip for that same family during the shoulder season.

Here are the hypotheticals:

Travel to Honolulu on the island of Oahu, the most popular island for visitors to Hawaii.

Round-trip flights for four from Los Angeles.

A peak-season trip assumes a June 25, 2024, departure, while a shoulder-season trip assumes a May 8, 2024, departure.

We used three property types to assess price estimates:

A beachfront four-star resort: Hilton Hawaiian Village. 

A three-star hotel: Holiday Inn Express Waikiki. 

A condo: Various Waikiki units on Vrbo.com.

Totals include resort fees :

$50 per night at the four-star resort.

$29.49 per night at the three-star hotel.

All management and cleaning fees at the condo units.

Totals include parking costs of:

$68.06 per day at the four-star resort.

$45 per day at the three-star hotel.

Parking isn't included in condo totals (varies by building/unit).

Meals include nightly dinners of about $225, including drinks, taxes and tips. 

At a four-star resort, meal estimates include breakfasts and lunches totaling about $100 per day. 

Costs at a three-star hotel, which includes free breakfast, include only lunches totaling about $50 per day. 

Tightly budgeted meals assume cutting food costs by 60% with cheap eats and/or preparing meals. 

Activities for the 10-night trip include a snorkeling excursion, surfing lessons, a Pearl Harbor visit and a day at a water park. For the seven-night trip: snorkeling, the Pearl Harbor visit and a day at a water park (no surfing lessons).

Economy rental car reserved through DiscountHawaiiCarRental.com or Turo .

$5-a-day tip for housekeepers .

Based on the information outlined above, here are our estimated budgets.

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

10-night trip, peak summer travel season

$15,090: Four-star beachfront resort, with a 10-day rental car.

$10,447: Three-star hotel, with a 10-minute walk to the beach and a five-day rental car.

$7,781 Low-cost condo within walking distance to the beach, tightly budgeted meals and a five-day rental car. 

Seven-night trip, shoulder season

$9,574: Four-star beachfront resort, with a seven-day rental car.

$6,488: Three-star hotel, with a 10-minute walk to the beach and a rental car for two days.

$4,936: Low-cost condo within walking distance to the beach, tightly budgeted meals and a two-day rental car. 

Can you beat these numbers? Definitely. Here are tips on how to save on your vacation to Hawaii.

» Learn more: The best island in Hawaii for first timers

How to cut your Hawaii vacation costs

Stay on the beach or rent a car every day, but don’t do both.

Does your idea of a great vacation involve hitting the open road to explore every corner of the island? Then, don’t pay premium prices for a hotel on the beach.

On the other hand, if your dream trip involves tons of time lounging on the sand and splashing in the pool, don’t pay $55 a day for a rental car plus $68 a day to park it when it’s just going to sit there.

Many Waikiki hotels are within walking distance of a car rental agency, so it’s easy to get a car for just part of your trip. Select “Waikiki” instead of “Honolulu airport” as your pick-up and drop-off location for your rental car. If you pick the car up in the morning, then drop it off at the end of the day, you can save a night’s worth of parking costs, cutting down your trip cost.

The downside to this strategy is you may have to wait in a long line to get your car. So send one adult to pick up the vehicle in the morning while the rest of the crew gets ready for the day. And don’t forget to include airport transfers in your budget. Budget about $37 each way, including tip, for a taxi or rideshare between Waikiki and Honolulu airport.

» Learn more: The cheapest rental car companies

Eat cheaper

If your family of four has a nice dinner at the world-famous Duke’s Waikiki, including cocktails for the adults, an appetizer and a Hula Pie dessert to share, you’ll spend about $225, including taxes and tip. Of course, the beachfront views, tiki torches and aloha spirit might be worth it. But you don’t have to spend that much every night.

Step away from the beach and meals get much cheaper. For example, the outstanding burgers at Cheeseburger in Paradise are about $20, as opposed to the $36 baked fish at Duke’s.

In addition, pizza joints, super-affordable ramen houses, authentic Hawaiian diners such as Rainbow Drive-In, chains such as Denny’s and IHOP and fast-food restaurants including McDonald’s, Burger King and Subway can bring your meal costs down.

Or swing into one of the many ABC Stores to pick up packaged salads, sandwiches, yogurt, snacks, drinks or some spam musubi (a slice of grilled Spam sandwiched between or on top of a block of rice, wrapped in nori) to fill up on the cheap.

More affordable yet, you can buy cereal, coffee, milk, sandwich meats and bread to prepare breakfasts and lunches at your hotel or condo.

» Learn more: Is island hopping in Hawaii worth it?

Consider a condo

You can often find a vacation rental just a few minutes from the beach for much cheaper than you’d pay for a hotel.

For example, we found the condo shown below on Vrbo for 10 nights for $1,942 plus tax, for a total of $2,260. And that’s during peak summer travel.

For a seven-day rental during the shoulder season, you can cut your total accommodations expenditure by around $500 by choosing a condo over a hotel.

Many condos have kitchens, too, so you could save money by making eggs or pancakes for breakfast, spaghetti for dinner and packing sandwiches for lunches while you’re out and about.

» Learn more: Travelers: Save on meals with these tidbits

Pay with points and miles

The question “How much is a vacation to Hawaii?” has a much more appealing answer if you pay using airline miles, hotel points or credit card points — which can erase hundreds or even thousands of dollars from your trip cost.

For more information on how to maximize your points, be sure to check out these articles:

The Cheapest Ways to Fly to Hawaii Using Travel Rewards .

How to Travel to Honolulu on Points and Miles .

Where to Stay in Waikiki With Hotel Points .

How to Visit Hawaii On a Budget .

The Best Oahu Hotels Without Resort Fees .

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

If you want to go to Hawaii

So how much does it cost to go to Hawaii? It can be expensive. Hidden costs like resort fees and exorbitant parking prices can easily break a budget. But there are ways to save on the cost of a vacation to Hawaii.

Traveling before or after the peak summer season can save a considerable amount. In addition, don’t pay a premium to stay on the beach if you won’t take full advantage of that location, and don’t pay up to $68 a night to park a car as you’re splashing around the pool for several days.

To save big, consider a condo where you can cook many of your meals to save on dining. With these simple strategies, your answer to the question “How much is a vacation to Hawaii?” is one that fits your budget.

How to maximize your rewards

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

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

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

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

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

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

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

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5%-5% Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

Up to $300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

on Capital One's website

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

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

How To Have A Cheap, Week-Long Getaway In Hawaii On A Budget

Hawaii is expensive, but you can enjoy a week-long affordable trip for less than $1,000.

• Budget travelers can enjoy a week-long trip to Hawaii for as low as $894, with affordable hotels, meals, and activities.
• Luxurious travelers seeking lavish experiences can spend up to $6,827 for a one-week trip in Hawaii, focusing on high-end amenities.
• While Hawaii is known for its expenses, exploring cheaper islands like Kauai and the Island of Hawaii can provide more affordable vacations.

Hawaii as a vacation destination has a lot to offer, from lush tropical landscapes to pristine beaches to amazing cultural adventures, so, it’s not hard to understand why it checks all the boxes for many visitors. Despite being one of the most expensive states to visit , Hawaii still sees millions of vacationers. In 2023, the state welcomed 9,644,519 tourists , a 4.4% increase from the previous year. The total visitor spending was $20.78 billion, a 5.5% increase from $19.70 billion in 2021.

The actual travel costs can vary based on the season, the length of the trip, the type of accommodation, and the kind of activities one wants to indulge in. But there are also plenty of ways to cut costs and have a beautiful, yet affordable trip. Find out how to have a cheap, week-long getaway in Hawaii on a budget.

All The National Park Sites You Can Visit For Free In Hawaii

The cost of visiting hawaii for one week, you will spend $2,391 , on average for a seven-day trip to hawaii.

A Hawaiian vacation can be expensive, and hidden expenses like resort fees and parking costs can make things quite pricey. On average, visitors need $2,391 to enjoy a seven-day trip to Hawaii. This can range from $128 to $975 per day, with luxury travelers looking to enjoy lavish resorts, first-class flights, fine dining experiences, spa treatments, and private tours spending the most. If you travel as a couple, then the cost ranges from $256 to $1,950 per day.

Cost of a one-week trip based on travel duration:

• Cost of a one-week luxury trip to Hawaii: $6,827

The Cost Of Visiting Hawaii On A Budget

Spend as little as $894 in hawaii for one week.

The lowest amount one can spend on a trip to Hawaii is $128 per day, which includes budget hotels, cheaper meal options, local transportation, and low-cost activities.

A one-week trip allows vacationers to be more flexible with their budget and can easily save a lot if they are willing to forgo certain unnecessary things. You can spend $894 on a seven-day budget trip, with affordable accommodation averaging $75.

Affordable, yet highly-rated hotels and resorts in Hawaii:

How To Have A Cheap Week-Long Getaway In Hawaii On A Budget

From natural wonders to historical adventures, there are plenty of affordable things to experience in the aloha state.

Being an expensive travel destination, some people may prefer other scenic islands that offer similar experiences but are cheaper . However, it can’t be the same as visiting the Aloha State.

One of the easy ways to cut travel costs is to settle for low-cost activities and attractions, and visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a good starting point. The park is home to Kilauea and Mauna Loa, two of the world’s most notable active volcanoes .

Another must-visit spot is Kaanapali Beach, one of the best beaches in Maui , where you can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and cliff diving.

History buffs shouldn’t miss Pearl Harbor National Memorial , which hosts the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, National Memorial USS Arizona, Oklahoma, and Utah Memorial – all free to visit. Waikiki Aquarium also offers an affordable adventure with tickets only going for $12 for adults (non-residents) and $8 for Hawaiians and military personnel.

Hawaii is famous for many traditions. The luau, which features food, music, dancing, and various forms of entertainment, is the most well-known. You can experience this tradition in Kaanapali Beach .

7 Secluded Beach Towns In Hawaii

Visit hawaii’s cheapest islands, the island of hawaii and kauai offer more affordable vacations than oahu.

Many people consider Oahu the most affordable island, which makes sense, as it offers many cheap vacation spots in Hawaii . However, overall, the other islands are less expensive. One of the cheapest islands in Hawaii is Kauai, which is worth visiting for many reasons , including its beautiful beaches and some of the most scenic hikes in the US.

It only costs $1,332 to take a one-week trip in Kauai with $113 being the average amount previous visitors have spent on accommodation. A one-week budget trip to the island costs $584.

Another cheaper option to explore is the Island of Hawaii, which costs $1,753 for a seven-day solo vacation . Tourists on a budget can spend as low as $727.

The cost of a one-week trip to the Island of Hawaii and Kauai against Oahu:

Hawaii can be expensive to visit, but it can also be affordable for travelers willing to cut costs and opt for budget-friendly accommodations, meals, and activities.

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Memorial Day Weekend air travel to reach record numbers of passengers across the US. Here is some information good to know this weekend in Honolulu.

TSA projects record number of Memorial Day travelers: What you need to know in Honolulu

Robert Buan

Weekend Morning Anchor

Robert Buan joined the KITV4 News Team in 2023 as the anchor for Good Morning Hawaii weekends. He will be reporting during the week. Having worked in several broadcast formats, Robert's most recent news experience was anchoring morning news at WLAC and the Tennessee Radio Network in Nashville where he lived for eight years.

• Author email
• May 23, 2024
• May 23, 2024 Updated 11 hrs ago

HONOLULU (Island News) – While some are awaiting 5 p.m. Friday to start off the Holiday weekend, as travel goes the Memorial Day Weekend starts Thursday.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is projecting about 3.5 million people will be flying over these next five days – the most this annual May weekend has seen since 2005. According to AAA, they’re projecting this to be the second-busiest Memorial Day weekend of air travel since they started tracking that data in 2001.

Another major factor that can impact your travel: Weather. The biggest concerns for Thursday and Friday are severe storm systems working across the Midwest into the south. While the Dallas Metroplex is the one major hub that looks most threatened by storms, significant weather also leads to longer flight patterns to avoid rough air.

On Oahu, keep in mind that the airport in Honolulu has been working one runway short. Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) says Runway 4R-22L remains closed for runway shoulder paving and drainage work, but expects to be back in order Monday, June 10 at 6 a.m.  

To make sure you get wherever you’re going as smoothly as possible, TSA offers the following tips:

Travel tips

Here are some tips to help all travelers have a smooth trip through the security checkpoint at any airport:

1.      Arrive at the airport early so you can complete every step of the airport process.   Allow ample time to park, navigate to the terminal, check luggage and proceed through the TSA security screening checkpoint and get to the gate. Keep in mind, most flights board 30-45 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time. 

2.      Be prepared for any scenario.  Have your photo identification  and  boarding pass ready prior to entering the security checkpoint. This will keep you from slowing down the screening process for you and everyone behind you.

3.      Listen to directions provided by TSA officers . The advisements are specific to the type of screening you will experience. The information given will make your screening experience quicker and smoother.

4.      Pack smart . Always start with an empty bag to ensure you don’t inadvertently bring prohibited items to the security checkpoint. Place electronics larger than a cell phone and travel size liquids at the top of your carry-on so they can be easily access if you are required to remove them. Also, be sure that all liquids are 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less if transporting them through the security checkpoint.

5.      Get assistance prior to traveling . Ensure that carry-ons do not contain prohibited items since they slow down the security screening process. To determine whether an item is allowed or prohibited in carry-on luggage, download the MyTSA app and use the “What Can I Bring?” feature. Another option is to snap a picture of an item and send it to @AskTSA on Twitter or Facebook Messenger for real-time assistance. Travelers can also send a question by texting “Travel” to AskTSA (275-872).

6.      Double-check your luggage.  Many bags look alike. Prior to traveling, passengers should tag every piece of luggage with their name and address and include additional addresses inside each bag in the event the outside tag falls off. When retrieving luggage at baggage claim, it’s important for passengers to check these tags to ensure they’ve picked up the correct bag. 

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Travel | Travel: Ka’anapali resort on west Maui makes…

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Subscriber only, travel | travel: ka’anapali resort on west maui makes a comeback.

As we ran steadily north from the resort, the morning light caught the mountaintops of neighboring Lanai and Molokai islands across the Pailolo and Au’au channels to the west. Lacy ocean waves gently lapped the shore and a few moored excursion catamarans bobbed placidly in the calm, windless conditions. To the east, the West Maui mountains were draped in mist and low-lying clouds, backlit by a rising sun. It was Maui’s morning magic at its best: quiet, serene and breathtakingly beautiful.

Reaching the Sheraton Maui Resort, set on the jagged volcanic Pu’u Keka’a (aka Black Rock) promontory, we maneuvered around a few buildings to transition from South Ka’anapali Beach to North Ka’anapali (aka Airport) Beach. Just past the historic Keka’a landing pier, I watched a family of sea turtles surface just offshore, raising their heads above the water as they commuted to their favorite feeding spot.

The most extraordinary thing about this morning jaunt along the beach was the emptiness of it all. Just a handful of people passed us on the path and the long expanse of Ka’anapali sand was almost devoid of strollers, beach-goers and swimmers. Having visited West Maui post-pandemic and about eight months before the fires, and busy Wailea in South Maui in February, this emptiness was indeed a strange sight: Ka’anapali beaches and pathways are almost always busy with walkers and runners enjoying morning wellness rituals and fresh air. But not today and, most likely, not in the near future, as the impact of the devastating fires that destroyed much of the nearby town of Lahaina last summer continues to affect the West Maui region and the island as a whole.

The fires dealt a serious blow to Maui’s economy and thousands of Lahaina locals lost their homes, businesses and jobs. Almost 100 residents lost their lives. “When is right time to visit Maui again? What is the best way to help?” Hawaii travelers asked themselves as tourism slowed to a crawl.

In March, the go-ahead signal came from Hawaii’s state and Maui’s county governments, and from the islanders too. Spread the word, they said: “Makaukau Maui” or “Maui is ready” in the Hawaiian language. And while the physical, economic and emotional recovery of Lahaina and its community will take many years, perhaps decades, there really couldn’t be a better time to visit West Maui, where most resorts and hotels are open again and welcoming visitors with the aloha spirit. Better yet: most Ka’anapali resorts are offering discount pricing and enticing packages — a rarity in the Islands, especially on Maui.

Where to stay

The Westin Maui Resort & Spa Ka’anapali

My deluxe digs at the Westin Maui Resort & Spa Ka’anapali were high up in the fabulous 217-room Hokupa’a tower. The recently remodeled Hokupa’a rooms provide wide ocean views and exclusive access to a club level called “The Lanai”, a great place to enjoy a drink and included breakfast and dinner pupus. The club’s shallow pool with in-water chaise lounges is dreamy place to enjoy a sunset and drinks crafted by their expert mixologists. Complimentary breakfast and dinner pupus, and all-day snack and non-alcoholic drinks are also provided.

The Westin Maui is putting the finishing touches on a property-wide, multi-million-dollar transformation, which also includes the redesigned Kukahi Tower and the debut of Hana Hou by Westin — a 10,000-square-foot social center with a state-of-the-art arcade games, two Topgolf swing suites, and a bar and lounge. It’s the first amenity of its kind at a Hawaii resort and is slated to open to the public at the end of May. The Westin Maui also recently launched Ulu Kitchen — the resort’s signature breakfast, lunch and dinner experience in partnership with acclaimed Hawaii chef Peter Merriman (be sure to check out the Monkeypod mai tai flapjacks with Kula rum butter syrup, honey lilikoi foam and the saimin-style “Cure” for breakfast, the ahi poke bowl for lunch and the delicious grilled macadamia nut mahi mahi for dinner.)

Ka’anapali Beach, located on the west coast of Maui, is known for its amazing sunsets. (Photo by Ben Davidson Photography)

A cliff diver leaps off Pu’u Keka’a (aka Black Rock) on Ka’anapali Beach. (Photo by Ben Davidson Photography)

Lacy waves break on North Ka’anapali Beach. (Photo by Ben Davidson Photography)

A solitary visitor takes in the evening sky at Ka’anapali Beach. (Photo by Ben Davidson Photography)

The waterfall and pool at the Westin Maui Resort & Spa Ka’anapali. (Photo by Ben Davidson Photography)

Poolside cabanas at the Westin Maui Resort & Spa Ka’anapali. (Photo by Ben Davidson Photography)

Polynesian dancer at at the Wailele luau, Westin Maui Resort & Spa Ka’anapali. (Photo by Ben Davidson Photography)

View of Ka’anapali beach from a premier ocean view suite, Hokupa’a Tower, Westin Maui Resort & Spa Ka’anapali. (Photo by Ben Davidson Photography)

A sunset torch-lighting ceremony takes place nightly at Pu’u Keka’a (aka Black Rock), Ka’anapali Beach. (Photo by Ben Davidson Photography)

The Westin also boasts one the best oceanfront pool complexes in Ka’anapali, with a large kids pool with two open-air slides, and several quieter pools, one with a waterfall and two others for adults only. A small infinity pool has a sandy bottom to wiggle your toes while soaking in the view. Numerous poolside cabanas offer waterside privacy for an extra charge. The resort offers a unique RunWestin program for runners as well as a daily yoga sessions for those who love to stretch and pose. Details: marriott.com/en-us/hotels/hnmwi-the-westin-maui-resort-and-spa-kaanapali/overview

The Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa

In a spectacular location at the far northern end of Ka’anapali Beach, the Sheraton is committed to supporting its associates and neighbors who are still healing and providing travelers a myriad of ways to support the Maui economy by buying local, participating in volunteer experiences, and donating to those affected. In pursuit of these goals, Sheraton Maui Resort launched three new offerings, including a Return to Maui package with a donation earmarked for each stay, a “Malama at Your LEI-sure” fundraising initiative in collaboration with a local artist, and a Discover More of Maui with enhanced programming to discover local artisans and island destinations. Stroll the Ka’anapali path to the Sheraton around sunset to enjoy the hotels’ Hawaiian music and hula shows and the traditional Lele Kawa cliff-diving ceremony at Pu’u Keka’a every evening. Details: marriott.com/en-us/hotels/hnmsi-sheraton-maui-resort-and-spa/overview

Outrigger Ka’anapali Beach Resort

With a recently remodeled wing of premium rooms and newly acquired by Outrigger Resorts & Hotels, the property (formerly known as the Ka’anapali Beach Hotel) offers one of the best values in the Ka’anapali resort.

Hotel guests can enjoy complimentary Hawaiian cultural experiences from a team of cultural practitioners, including kukui nut lei-making, hula, and bamboo stamp making workshops, and classes in Olelo, the native Hawaiian language. Class sizes are limited and are held at the Kawenaokeao Cultural Center in the lobby.

Facing the beach and ocean, the breezy space that once housed the resort’s Hui Hui restaurant is now an outlet of the family-friendly Maui Brewing Company, a great place to enjoy a few cold, locally made brews, pub fare like fish tacos and seared ahi tuna salad, and, of course, take in the unforgettable West Maui sunsets. Details: outrigger.com/hawaii/maui/kaanapali-beach-resort-hotel

Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa

A huge resort with 779 rooms and 31 suites at the far south end of the Ka’anapali Beach path. The resort’s six pool areas and a swim-up grotto bar are currently closed for renovations. The resort has launched Nashville Nights, a songwriters series featuring a stellar lineup of talented artists from the Music City, is being held once a month for the next five months. The inaugural show took place on April 27, with performances by renowned artists Gracee Shriver and Noel Bisesti.

A Tour of the Stars experience for Hyatt guests is led by Astronomy Director, Eddie Mahoney and allows guests to experience Maui’s clear skies with a night of stargazing and a rooftop astronomy program. Programming is offered every night of the week at 8, 9 and 10 p.m. Astrophotography workshops are available by request. Details: hyatt.com/hyatt-regency/en-US/oggrm-hyatt-regency-maui-resort-and-spa

Westin Maui Resort & Spa Ka’anapali

The resort’s Wailele Luau brings you on a journey through Hawaiian history as the performers chant and dance hula while you enjoy a traditional island-style dinner with dishes such as lomi lomi salmon, ahi poke and slow-roasted kalua pig, plus unlimited drinks. When the sun sets, the performance culminates in an awe-inspiring fire knife dance. Details: westinmauiluau.com

Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa

Maui Nui Luau: Discover the remarkable stories, history, and culture of the Valley Isle and Ka’anapali through the songs and dances of Maui and the Pacific. Situated beachfront on award-winning Ka’anapali Beach, the Maui Nui Lu’au shares the music, dance and history of the islands right here at the foot of the famous cliff diving point, Black Rock. Details: sheratonmauiluau.com

Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa

Drums of the Pacific:  Experience Polynesian culture at a beautiful oceanside venue as you enjoy traditional song and dance, an authentic imu ceremony, a three-course dinner and open bar featuring island cuisine and local spirits, and a three-man Samoan fire-knife dance finale. Details: drumsofthepacificmaui.com

Royal Lahaina Resort

The Myths of Maui immerses guests in captivating mo’olelo, or legends, of ancient Hawaiian mythology through a colorful array of song, dance, traditions, and cuisine. The experience starts with a buffet of mouthwatering Hawaiian dishes, including the Kalua pua’a slow-roasted pig in an imu, or underground oven. Hula dancers take the stage, sharing the stories of the demigod Maui and his heroic feats. A journey across Polynesia is told through traditional song and chants, concluding with an awe-inspiring fire knife performance. Details: mythsofmaui.com

The Ka’anapali Golf Courses offer 36 holes of golf, including a limited time 9-hole Kai golf course experience in a beautiful setting with views of the Pacific Ocean and the West Maui Mountains. The nine-hole course features holes 1, 4-6 and finishing with holes 14-18. After June 1, the Ka’anapali Kai course will resume operations as an 18-hole course. Details: kaanapaligolfcourses.com

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Southwest’s first red-eye flights are coming. Here’s where and when.

Southwest Airlines is preparing to launch overnight flights for the first time in its history.

After hinting at the change last year , the Dallas-based carrier plans to add overnight flights from Las Vegas and Hawaii, Chief Commercial Officer Ryan Green said at an air travel conference Wednesday. The airline still has a few technical and labor details to work out before the flights can begin, but it hopes to get them in the air in about two years, Green said.

Green added that he sees an opportunity for about 50 red-eye flights a day at Southwest.

Red eyes, so called for the appearance of travelers’ eyes after missing a night of sleep, are ubiquitous at most major airlines. Travelers book them for what are often cheaper fares than daytime flights. For travelers from the West Coast, they also offer the advantage of leaving after work and arriving on the East Coast the next day in time for a breakfast meeting.

And airlines like overnight flights because they can generate more revenue from an airplane that would otherwise sit idle at an airport until the next morning.

Las Vegas’s Harry Reid International Airport boasted no fewer than 26 overnight flights departing after 9 p.m. on almost every U.S. airline on a random Thursday in March, data from aviation analytics firm Cirium Diio shows. These flights, which are typically over four hours, connect Sin City to cities such as Atlanta, Boston, New York and D.C.

Southwest plays catch up on red eyes

Southwest is beloved by travelers for its quirkiness, all-economy seating with no seat assignments and free checked bags. What it is not known for is being on the forefront of travel technology. Remember the plastic boarding cards you picked up at the gate well into the 2000s ? Or the Great Meltdown of 2022 ?

For most of its 50-plus years flying, Southwest could not offer anything more than daytime flights in the U.S. due to limits with its reservations system. That changed in 2014 when it began implementing a new, modern booking system from airline IT provider Amadeus to launch international flights. Overnight flights became possible in 2017 when the platform was fully adopted.

It took another six years before Southwest began selling tickets with overnight connections last July.

Southwest CEO Robert Jordan in November described the possibility of overnight flights at the airline as the latest “ evolution ” of its business model.

Cheap, easy growth

Southwest, like most airlines, is in a bind. Aviation supply chain issues mean many of the new planes it has ordered from Boeing are years behind schedule. Costs are also up thanks to inflation and new post-pandemic labor agreements.

Boeing’s issues have forced Southwest to cut its growth plans this year. Instead of 79 new 737 Max planes, it will only take around 46.

“We have to be maniacally focused on being efficient,” Green said, adding that the airline wants to grow but without “adding to the cost structure.”

Enter overnight flights.

Savanthi Syth, an airline analyst at investment bank Raymond James, said in an email that adding red-eye flights would allow Southwest to grow at less cost than buying new planes.

“In the Hawaii-mainland U.S. market, red-eye flight capabilities should enable more connections or just a better schedule than Southwest can offer today,” she added.

That’s good news for the many loyal Southwest fliers in, say, Dallas or Kansas City, Mo., whose only flight option home from Hawaii is to lose an entire day to travel.

Similarly, more flights from Las Vegas could help slow fare increases. The average U.S. domestic airfare from the city, not including added fees such as checked bags or seat assignments, was up 12 percent to $264.38 in the third quarter of last year compared with 2019, according to Bureau of Transportation Statistics data . Airfares were down 6 percent when adjusted for inflation.

“Southwest’s significant volume of red-eye flights will bring additional capacity to an already crowded Las Vegas market,” said Seth Miller, an airline analyst and editor of the PaxEx.Aero website. “Passengers should benefit as destination options expand and fares remain competitive.”

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Lahaina Business Owners Dive Into Busy Travel Season

Additional opportunities have arisen in recent weeks as they navigate a new normal after the Aug. 8 fires.

Late April brought the start of a busy travel season for U‘i Kahue-Cabanting and Mario Siatris, who’ve committed to teaching a half-dozen Hawaiian cultural workshops on the mainland through July.

The workshops aren’t money-makers. But Maui Grown 808 is more than a business. It’s a mission, a way to help people deepen their connection to Hawaiian culture.

In three days, the business partners taught coconut-weaving workshops in three counties across Southern California.

At the end of the visit, the trip sponsor, Pacific Island Health Partnership , surprised U‘i and Mario with a jumbo-sized check made out for $10,000 to help further their business recovery. More than 300 employees of PIHP and the health insurer Blue Shield of California contributed to the donation.

“We were fortunate not to lose anyone family-wise, but we come from Kuhua Camp,” U‘i explained as she and Mario accepted the unexpected gift. “We lost 40 neighbors and friends out of the 101 identified.”

Their neighborhood, which was once a housing camp for sugar plantation workers, was the hardest hit by last August’s wildfire in terms of the number of deaths.

A few days after their return to Maui, U‘i boarded a plane to a small village in Alaska to host a series of weaving demonstrations in a visit organized by Naupaka Pacific . She also met with Indigenous leaders to share strategies for combating overtourism that have been successful for community organizers in Hawaii.

Last week U‘i and Mario went to Oregon to teach more weaving workshops and to see their newly assembled trailer for the first time. The business partners plan to ship the 26-foot rig to Maui, where it will become their temporary living quarters until the government gives Mario the green light to rebuild his destroyed Lahaina home.

Up next: Las Vegas, North Carolina, then back to California. Maui Grown 808 will also offer weaving demonstrations at the Festival of the Pacific in Honolulu in June. In the fall they plan to head back to Oregon for another round of workshops.

Yet while the cultural outreach component of U‘i and Mario’s business is soaring, the more lucrative side of Maui Grown 808 is sputtering after so many wildfire losses. 

There have been a few bright spots, however. 

In March, U‘i renegotiated her contract with the Westin resort, securing a $500 weekly revenue increase. 

The income boost helps cover a new business expense: supermarket flowers. Since the fire destroyed Maui Grown 808’s plumeria nursery, U‘i and Mario have had to buy flower bouquets in place of the fragrant plumeria blooms they used to source from their own trees, which all burned down in the Lahaina fire. 

The extra money also helps U‘i and Mario pay their workers higher wages in a tight job market.

Schools, open-air markets, cultural festivals and conferences have gradually started soliciting U‘i and Mario’s services again as Lahaina’s recovery advances. The business partners also joined the lineup of cultural practitioners at the Old Lahaina Luau, which reopened in mid-March . 

The fire spared the luau grounds, but it took months of extensive cleaning and repairs to ready the oceanfront property to welcome back guests for dinner and live entertainment, which now includes Mario’s coconut-weaving demonstrations.

Yet despite so much forward momentum, Maui Grown 808’s primary money-maker — its Lahaina plumeria orchard and native plant nursery — were wiped out by the fire. The blaze also incinerated the office space that housed more than a decade’s worth of business records. 

It will likely take years for U‘i and Mario to overcome these losses.

But the business partners are in good spirits, buoyed by so many new opportunities to share the disappearing art of coconut weaving with people in new corners of the country. 

“It’s at the heart of why we do what we do,” U‘i said.

Civil Beat’s coverage of Maui County is supported in part by grants from the Nuestro Futuro Foundation.

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Memorial Day 2024: AAA Idaho predictions on gas prices, travel and crowds

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BOISE, Idaho — Gem State residents are splashing into summer with big travel plans for Memorial Day weekend, with an estimated 262,000 Idahoans among the anticipated 43.8 million Americans hitting the roads for the holiday, according to AAA Idaho.

Gas prices in Idaho are averaging $3.80 per gallon for unleaded gasoline as of Thursday, May 23, which is quite comparable to prices one year ago at $3.76.

"Idaho gas prices have been falling, slowly but surely, since the third week of April," said Matthew Conde, the AAA Idaho public affairs director. "The national average has reversed course and is up a couple of pennies in the past few days, and the Gem State may follow suit as demand rises."

AAA calculated that Idaho is ranked ninth in the country for most expensive fuel.

RELATED:  See KTVB's interactive map for up-to-date gasoline prices in Idaho here .

States with the most expensive gasoline are:

• California ($5.17)
• Hawaii ($4.80)
• Washington ($4.59)
• Oregon ($4.36)
• Nevada ($4.36)
• Alaska ($4.32)
• Illinois ($3.94)
• Arizona ($3.89)
• Ida ho ($3.80)

A study conducted by AAA found that of the total 43.8 million Americans traveling, 38.4 million will drive, which will set a new record for those traveling by vehicle. However, this year's overall total still remains below the all-time Memorial Day travel record of 44 million Americans set in 2005.

"The airports will be very busy at times. Arrive early so that you have plenty of time to park and get through security," Conde said.

AAA advised that drivers travel before noon on Thursday and Friday, as more congestion is expected in the afternoon, as well as in the evenings. AAA warns that perhaps the most congested day and time for roadway travel will be Monday evening, as people return home. 

"Gasoline demand will likely climb for at least the first half of the summer, which could result in more expensive fill-ups. We have a high probability of getting over the $4 mark at some point," Conde added. "It will be interesting to see how things go over the week."

Memorial Day gas prices over past five years:

• 2023 - $3.83 (Idaho) - $3.58 (U.S. avg.)
• 2022 - $4.72 (Idaho) - $4.62 (U.S.)
• 2021 - $3.25 (Idaho) - $3.05 (U.S.)
• 2020 - $2.14 (Idaho) - $1.96 (U.S.)
• 2019 - $3.20 (Idaho) - $2.83 (U.S.)

AAA said key contributing factors to the decline are modest fuel use and stable crude oil prices.

A report by the Energy Information Administration showed that gasoline use per day was averaging at 8.9 million barrels. According to the West Texas Intermediate, crude oil is trading for $4 less than one year ago, at $78 per barrel.

Idaho gas prices as of May 22:

• Boise - $3.83
• Coeur d'Alene - $3.77
• Franklin - $3.64
• Idaho Falls - $3.68
• Lewiston - $3.69
• Pocatello - $3.79
• Rexburg - $3.81 
• Twin Falls - $3.82

Watch more Local News :

See the latest news from around the Treasure Valley and the Gem State in our YouTube playlist :

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Memorial Day travelers cope with higher prices in rush to kick off summer fun

Highways and airports are likely to be jammed the next few days as Americans head out for Memorial Day weekend getaways and then return home.

Airports around the country are bracing for the travel rush as Americans head out for Memorial Day weekend. AAA predicts 43.8 million people expected to travel between Thursday and Monday. (AP Video: Tassanee Vejpongsa)

Highways and airports are likely to be jammed this weekend, as Americans head out on Memorial Day weekend getaways. AAA says this will be the busiest start-of-summer weekend in nearly 20 years.

Traffic slowly moves along Interstate 405 on Thursday, May 23, 2024, in the Bel Air section of Los Angeles. Highways and airports are likely to be jammed in the coming days as Americans head out on and home from Memorial Day weekend getaways. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

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Travelers ride an escalator down to the concourse at Miami International Airport ahead of the Memorial Day holiday weekend Thursday, May 23, 2024, in Miami. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

Travelers make their way through security at Denver International Airport on Thursday, May 23, 2024. Highways and airports are likely to be jammed in the coming days as Americans head out on Memorial Day weekend getaways. AAA predicts this will be the busiest start-of-summer weekend in nearly 20 years with 43.8 million people expected to travel at least 50 miles from home between Thursday and Monday. (AP Photo/Thomas Peipert)

Travelers walk through the concourse at Miami International Airport, Thursday, May 23, 2024, in Miami. A record number of Americans are expected to travel over the 2024 Memorial Day holiday. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

Travelers wait at a TSA checkpoint at Miami International Airport, Thursday, May 23, 2024, in Miami. A record number of Americans are expected to travel over the 2024 Memorial Day holiday. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

Gasoline prices are displayed on a sign outside a service station as the Memorial Day holiday travel period kicks off Thursday, May 23, 2024, in Greenwood Village, Colo. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)

A member of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security patrols at Miami International Airport, Thursday, May 23, 2024, in Miami. A record number of Americans are expected to travel over the 2024 Memorial Day holiday. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

Travelers walk through the concourse at Miami International Airport ahead of the Memorial Day holiday weekend Thursday, May 23, 2024, in Miami. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

Widespread flight delays across the U.S. tested the patience of travelers who tried to get a jump start on Memorial Day weekend, but the relatively few canceled flights raised hopes that airlines would be able to handle the bigger crowds expected Friday.

The Transportation Security Administration predicted that Friday will be the busiest day for air travel over the long holiday weekend, with nearly 3 million people expected to pass through airport checkpoints . The number of passengers could rival the record of 2.9 million, set on the Sunday after Thanksgiving last year.

Pasha Pidlubniak waits for a domestic flight at Miami International Airport, Thursday, May 23, 2024, in Miami. A record number of Americans are expected to travel over the 2024 Memorial Day holiday. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

“Airports are going to be more packed than we have seen in 20 years,” AAA spokesperson Aixa Diaz said.

Highways also are likely to be jammed the next few days as motorists head out of town and then return home. AAA predicted this will be the busiest start-of-summer weekend in nearly 20 years, with 43.8 million people expected to roam at least 50 miles from home between Thursday and Monday — with 38 million of them taking vehicles.

The annual expression of wanderlust that accompanies the start of the summer travel season is happening at a time when Americans tell pollsters they are worried about the economy and the direction of the country.

“Memorial Day is a holiday weekend. I get to hang with family and friends, so I’d say that’s priceless, right?” Nene Efebo said during a two-hour wait for a delayed flight at Denver International Airport. “Anything to hang out with family and friends.”

Some travelers reported experiencing sticker shock when they booked their trips. Upon arriving at Philadelphia International Airport, Ciarra Marsh said the city “was not our original destination, but we chose here because it was cheaper.”

At Chicago’s O’Hare Airport, Larisa Latimer of New Lenox, Illinois, said her airfare was reasonable but other expenses for a getaway to New Orleans were not.

Motorists travel along Interstate 24 near the Interstate 40 interchange Thursday, May 23, 2024, in Nashville, Tenn. A record number of Americans are expected to hit the pavement over the 2024 Memorial Day holiday. (AP Photo/George Walker IV)

“I just have to make the accommodation,” she said. “The rental car is up ... this year, the hotel accommodations were very unusually expensive.”

Kathy Larko of Fort Myers, Florida, used frequent-flyer miles — and some flexible scheduling — to pay for her trip to Chicago.

Travelers wait at a TSA checkpoint at the Los Angeles International Airport, Thursday, May 23, 2024, in Los Angeles. A record number of Americans are expected to travel over the 2024 Memorial Day holiday. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun)

“I’m really conscious of looking at the cost of the entire trip. We’re staying a little farther out than we normally would” to get a lower hotel rate, she said. “We’re also flying back a day later, because we could get cheaper miles.”

Airport unions are using the holiday weekend to highlight their demands.

About 100 workers who clean airplane cabins and drive trash trucks at the airport in Charlotte, North Carolina, started a 24-hour strike Thursday, demanding better pay and healthcare, according to the Service Employees International Union. About 15% of flights were delayed, but it was unclear whether the strike played any role.

A planned strike at John F. Kennedy Airport in New York was averted, however. Teamsters Local 553, which represents about 300 workers who refuel passenger and cargo jets at JFK, said that it reached a settlement with Allied Aviation Services and called off a walkout planned for Friday.

George Ridley, 4, left, rides on a suitcase as he and his father Chris Ridley make their way through the Nashville international Airport, Thursday, May 23, 2024, in Nashville, Tenn. A record number of Americans are expected to travel over the 2024 Memorial Day holiday. (AP Photo/George Walker IV)

“We are happy an agreement has been reached, a need for a strike averted, and we are hopeful that the deal will be ratified by our members,” said Demos Demopoulos, the secretary-treasurer of the local.

More than 6,000 flights were delayed Thursday by early evening on the East Coast, with the biggest backups at the three major airports in the New York City area and Dallas-Fort Worth International.

The weekend’s highway traffic and crowded airports could be a sample of what is to come. U.S. airlines expect to carry a record number of passengers this summer. Their trade group estimates that 271 million travelers will fly between June 1 and August 31, breaking the record of 255 million set – you guessed it – last summer .

This story corrects the spelling of Florida city to Fort Myers.

Associated Press video journalist Melissa Perez Winder in Chicago and Associated Press radio reporter Shelley Adler in Washington contributed to this report.