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One Week in Hawaii: The Ultimate Itinerary

 Living Moments Media / Getty Images

When it comes to planning the perfect holiday, there aren’t many locations that can surpass the allure and quality of the Hawaiian Islands . With practically year-round warm weather, an abundance of delicious restaurants to choose from, and activities for any preference and budget, Hawaii pretty much has it all when it comes to vacationing.

Seeing the best parts of the state in one week is tricky, but it isn’t impossible. While you shouldn’t expect to experience everything Hawaii has to offer in a mere seven days, a week is certainly enough time to fit in some amazing highlights.

Day 1: Oahu (Honolulu)

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

Starting your trip off on Oahu (aka: “the gathering place”) is a no brainer. The Daniel K. Inouye Airport in Honolulu is the largest and most convenient gateway to the islands by far, with 50,000 passengers coming through every day and the most flights options for both international and domestic.

Waikiki is typically the most advantageous area to stay in if you’re just visiting Oahu for a few days. There are plenty of great accommodations to choose from for almost every budget, and no shortage of things to do. Spend today getting to know Waikiki and the surrounding beaches. If you’re looking for a more social experience close to the hustle and bustle and near the best oceanside bars, stay closer to the main Waikiki Beach in front of the legendary Moana Surfrider. If you’re looking for a quieter area with more space, head either west to Kahanamoku Beach, Fort Derussy, and Ala Moana, or southeast to Kaimana Beach near the Waikiki Aquarium and Honolulu Zoo.

Have lunch somewhere in town, or if you haven’t had enough beach time, then opt for a meal to-go at Tucker & Bevvy . The grab-and-go spot is known for their healthy picnic-friendly sandwiches, salads, acai bowls, and smoothies, perfect for the beach. Be sure to hang out to catch the sunset on the beach before dinner.

Day 2: Oahu (Roadtrip to North Shore)

Hit the road for an island road trip on your second day in Hawaii. Start in Waikiki and head east on the H1 Highway (this will turn into Kalanianaole Highway) past Aina Haina and Hawaii Kai. Stop at Hanauma Bay for some snorkeling or simply to take in the view; just a bit further down you can check out the Halona Blowhole from the lookout off the highway as well. Continue up past Sandy’s Beach, Makapuu, and Waimanalo, stopping along the way if you want to get in the water. Follow the signs to the HI-83 North to beautiful Kualoa Ranch where you can take a tour of the grounds on horseback or by jeep.

With the towering green cliffs to your left and the turquoise ocean water to your right, the drive from Kualoa Ranch to the northernmost tip of the island is simply breathtaking. Stop in Kahuku for some of the area’s famous garlic shrimp from Romy’s or Fumi’s , or curb your sweet tooth at Ted’s Bakery . Continue towards Waimea Valley for a quick hike among the historic botanical gardens and Haleiwa Town for a bit of shopping, before heading back down through the center of the island past the Dole Pineapple Plantation and Pearl Harbor .

Day 3: Oahu (Pearl Harbor & Luau)

 TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

Your third day on Oahu is best spent experiencing some of the history and culture that this exciting island has to offer. There’s a reason why Pearl Harbor is the number one most-visited attraction in the state of Hawaii; the area is steeped with events that bore great significance to the history of the islands. Because of its popularity, there are plenty of ways to get there . Choose from a number of highly-rated organized tours if you want to get the most out of your visit to Pearl Harbor, or simply take the Waikiki Trolly and even the public bus to visit on a budget. While the larger attractions within Pearl Harbor such as the USS Missouri Battleship and the USS Bowfin Submarine will cost extra to enter, the USS Arizona , the visitor center, and parking are all free.

In the evening, take your pick from one of Oahu’s many different luaus . If you’re driving, consider one near the west side of the island such as Chief’s or Paradise Cove. If you’re sticking close to Waikiki, the Diamond Head Luau (on the grounds of the Waikiki Aquarium) and Waikiki Starlight are excellent choices as well. Don’t forget to book tickets in advance, as some of the more popular luaus have been known to sell out on the weekends during the busy season .

Day 4: Maui (Paia)

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Just a few short miles from Kahului Airport , the artsy surfing town of Paia is the perfect introduction to Maui. Catch an early flight to Kahului (about 30-45 minutes in the air from Honolulu) and grab a rental car from there. There are a couple of options for accommodations in Paia, from vacation rentals to the chic Paia Inn . Check out Baldwin Beach Park—one of the largest and most gorgeous beaches in the region—or Lower Paia Park for some surfing or turtle watching (tip: Baldwin’s is great for romantic, evening sunset strolls). Paia has a truly relaxed vibe around it, with cute boutique shops and casual eateries that take full advantage of the area’s incredible access to seafood. This is also the location of one of the most iconic restaurants in the state, Mama’s Fish House .

If you’re up for it, drive south from Paia to visit Upcountry Maui . Go wine tasting at Maui Wines or explore the famous lavender fields in Kula. The tropical botanical gardens in this region are located on the slopes of the dormant volcano Haleakala, and contain hundreds of different special native plants.

Day 5: Maui (Road to Hana)

Wake up early to set out on one of Maui’s most famous and notorious-windy roads. Along the Hana Highway on the Road to Hana you can stop at some of the island’s most beautiful highlights such as Twin Falls, Garden of Eden, Upper Waikani Falls, and the black sand beaches as Waianapanapa State Park.

Don’t feel pressured to drive all the way to Hana, this trip is about the journey not the destination. If you’re strapped for time, just pick one or two highlights to see and spend a little extra time at each one before heading back. Keep in mind that although the map says the distance to Hana is just over 50 miles, the drive itself is full of twists, turns, and switchbacks (not to mention the time it will take to pull over and see the sights along the way), so try to allot much more time than you’d expect to complete the trip.

After you’ve made it back to Paia or Kahului, head west towards Lahaina . This part of the island is great for travelers as it contains a wide variety of accommodations and restaurants for any type of budget. If you’re not too tired from all the driving, take a walk down Front Street in Lahaina once the sun goes down , you’ll find all the best restaurants and shops there.

Day 6: Lanai Day Trip

Today you’ll be getting a taste of old Hawaii with a day trip to Lanai, nicknamed the “Pineapple Isle.” Take the ferry from Lahaina Harbor (don’t forget a return ticket) in the morning, the company can even help you rent a jeep once you reach the Lanai harbor to take you around the small island to see the highlights. If you don’t want to shell out the extra cash for a rental, there is a fantastic beach right within walking distance from the boat harbor once you arrive. Hulopoʻe Beach Park is hardly ever crowded and has some of the best snorkeling on the island thanks to the calm surf and protected reef. Bring a pack lunch to enjoy on the beach or get fancy with a snack at the nearby Four Seasons. Either way, make sure to take the short hike up to Sweetheart Rock on the left side of the beach to access the spectacular views, or spend some time exploring the pristine tidepools instead.

If you do decide to rent a car, drive towards Lanai City, the largest town on the island and home to most of the approximately 3,000 residents who live there. There are a couple of local shops and small cafes to choose from (we recommend family-owned Blue Ginger Cafe ) if you want to grab a bite. Take some time to drive around the island and explore its highlights, including Shipwreck Beach where you can see an abandoned WWII ship floating nearby, the unique rock formations at Keahiakawelo (Garden of the Gods), or the Lanai Cat Sanctuary .

Once it's time to head back to Maui with your return ticket, be on the lookout for migrating Humpback Whales during the Winter mating season—the channel between the two islands is one of their favorite places.

Day 7: Maui (Lahaina)

Take advantage of your last chance to relax and enjoy the island on your final day in Hawaii. Start the morning with a hike up the Kapalua Coastal Trail, where the volcanic rock formations meet the sea just about 20-minutes from Lahaina. Spend the rest of the day lounging at the beach and wandering around Whalers Village.

Rent some snorkels at one of the beachside resorts and head to Black Rock Beach in Kaanapali — it has some of the best snorkeling on the island with frequent visits by Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles as well. Have lunch at Leilani’s on the Beach overlooking the ocean or grab one of Monekypod’s famous Mai Tais.

In the evening, why not cap the trip off with a night on the water? A sunset dinner cruise on the Trilogy catamaran, departing Wednesday-Mondays, comes with a four-course meal and a beautiful view.

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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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The ultimate 10-day hawaii itinerary.

Hawaii is a world-renowned tropical paradise located in the Pacific Ocean, about 2,400 miles from California . It is home to an array of stunning beaches, volcanoes, tropical forests, and the friendliest locals. There’s a fascinating culture to explore in Hawaii, which is why we constantly find ourselves going back.

Whether you’re looking or relaxing tropical sunsets like the one below, delicious Hawaiian food ,or some snorkeling and jungle adventures, Hawaii has all of that and more.

Exploring Hawaii can be a bit of a challenge because it’s not just one island. If you want to have an easy time of it, I’d suggest you go just to one island, like Maui or Oahu , because each island has plenty of things to do to keep you busy for a week.

But if you’re looking for more of an adventure and want to try to get around to more than one of the islands, this 10-day Hawaii itinerary will help you figure out how to do that.

Planning such a long Hawaii trip itinerary can be a bit challenging, especially for first-timers. So this ultimate 10-day Hawaii itinerary will get you started on this exciting adventure.

Start out by reading is Hawaii expensive ? Get your budget in order, so you know what level of hotels you might be looking for.

» Visiting several islands in Hawaii? Check out our guides to Oahu (with it’s gorgeous waterfall hikes ), top things to do in Maui , and be sure to use our Hawaii packing lis t to ensure you’ve got everything you need.

Table of Contents

Best Places to Stay in Hawaii

Hawaii has plenty of hotels, resorts, and hostels dotted across the archipelago. Depending on your budget, you’ll have a wide range of accommodations ranging from luxury to mid-range and budget.

Here are the top picks of the best places to stay in Hawaii:

• Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu, Autograph Collection – is nestled in the heart of Poipu on the sunny South Shore of Kauai, Hawaii next door to some of the best shopping & dining on the island and a short stroll from world-famous Poipu Beach.
• The Twin Fin Hotel — Located in Waikiki, Honolulu, this 4-star in Hawaii offers spacious rooms with stunning ocean views. The hotel also has luxe amenities like a fitness center, an extensive outdoor pool, and conference rooms.
• Turtle Bay Resort — Modern, sophisticated, and isolated on Oahu’s North Shore, Turtle Bay Resort spans across 1,300 acres of verdant landscape, scenic hiking and biking trails, as well as a five-mile secluded shoreline.
• Hyatt Regency Maui Resort And Spa — Situated on a lush shoreline, this 4-star resort located on Maui’s west coast spans over 40 acres of gardens. You’ll also find five onsite restaurants, a spa, and a water park at your disposal.
• Royal Kona Resort — Nestled atop black volcanic rocks, Royal Resort is located in Kona, one of the best places to stay on the Big Island . This 3-star hotel boasts carpeted rooms with modern furniture, an on-site restaurant, and a saltwater lagoon.

The Best 10 Days in Hawaii Itinerary

This 10-day Hawaii vacation takes you through six of the eight islands on the archipelago. Pair this itinerary with the other helpful content in our Hawaii travel guide , and you’ll be all ready for your Hawaii vacation.

Mind you, this itinerary is not for someone who doesn’t like to travel while on vacation. You will need to plan transfers between the islands and that can be a bit of a pain. If you’re up for it, you can actually make it to six islands in 10 days, but it will be a challenge. If that sounds too much for you, you can mix and match to make an itinerary that suits you.

Hawaii Travel Itinerary Day 1-3: Kauai

Kickstart your 10-day trip to Hawaii with an adrenaline-filled tropical adventure in Kauai. The Garden Isle is home to one of the most beautiful and untouched landscapes in the archipelago, and it’s jam-packed with plenty of adventurous outdoor activities.

Once you’ve landed at Lihue Airport, you can get an Uber, Lyft, or rideshare on Holoholo to your accommodation. Take some time to relax at the hotel before heading out to get food at a nearby restaurant. Alternatively, hunt down the best food trucks in Hawaii , and enjoy some of Kauai’s best local delicacies.

Since most of Kauai is covered by lush tropical forests (mostly impenetrable), taking a helicopter tour allows you to get scenic views of the island’s dramatic landscape from a bird’s eye perspective.

Spend the rest of your first day in Kauai exploring its stunning beaches in Lihue and the south and east shore. Lydgate Beach Park is just 4.6 miles from Lihue Airport. It boasts a tree-lined shoreline ideal for picnics and camping.

Poipu Beach is about 15 miles from Lihue Airport, and it’s one of the most visited in Hawaii. This crescent-shaped beach boasts three miles of golden sands perfect for sun lounging. You can also enjoy other activities like snorkeling, surfing, swimming, and boogie boarding.

The second day of your Hawaii itinerary revolves around Kauai’s north shore. Start the day slow with a casual stroll through Princeville’s Botanical Gardens .

This gorgeous resort town is a short drive away from popular attractions like the Kilauea Lighthouse and the picturesque Hanalei Pier. The north shore is home to some of the best snorkeling spots in Kauai , located at the Lumahai Beach State Park.

You’ll also find the famous Kalalau Trailhead along the Nā Pali Coast, just a 30-minute drive from Princeville. This 11-mile hike is one of the most beautiful (and dangerous) trails in the U.S., featuring scenic views of dramatic cliffs meeting the crystal blue ocean.

More Kauai Tours to Book:

• Hughes 500 Helicopter – 4 guests max with no middle rear seats!
• RAFT ADVENTURE – Na Pali 1/2 Day Snorkel
• Secret Falls Kayak Hike in Kauai

TRANSFER TO OAHU

On the 3rd day, you’ll need to transfer to Oahu. There isn’t a passenger ferry service between the islands, so you’ll need to fly. Be sure to save plenty of time to get to the airport for your flight. Flights through Hawaiian Airlines take only 35 minutes and cost around $30-$60, depending on date and time.

Hawaii Travel Itinerary Day 3-5: Oahu

Aptly named the “Gathering Place”, Oahu is the most visited island in Hawaii. And it’s easy to see why. This picture-perfect island is home to the capital Honolulu, the historic Pearl Harbor, and other top attractions like Waikīkī Beach.

Since Oahu is the most modernized island in the archipelago, it can get a bit crowded, especially during the peak season. Keep this in mind when planning your itinerary of the best things to do in Oahu .

On day three of your Hawaii 10-day itinerary, you’ll land at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu. From here, you can book a rental car or get an Uber or Lyft to your hotel.

You’ll want to start day three in Honolulu, where you’ll find attractions like the Iolani Palace — a royal residence showcasing Hawaiian architecture at its finest. Other attractions you should check out include the King Kamehameha Statue , just two minutes from Iolani Palace, and the Honolulu Museum of Art .

Spend the afternoon soaking up the sun, snorkeling , or surfing the waves at Waikīkī Beach. Go on a snorkeling tour to Turtle Canyon and swim among these gorgeous creatures in their natural habitat. Alternatively, you can book yourself an afternoon cruise on a glass-bottom boat for an exciting marine life sightseeing excursion.

Day four of your Hawaii itinerary starts at the iconic Pearl Harbor. Take this half-day tour and learn about the history of World War II and its impact on Hawaii. You’ll also get to admire the World War II Valor and Battleship.

End the day with a traditional Hawaiian luau at Paradise Cove Luau. You’ll watch a beautiful sunset while eating authentic Hawaiian cuisine, fresh seafood, and tropical fruit.

Spend your last day on the island by trekking one of the most beautiful waterfall hikes in Oahu — Waimea Falls. This 3.5-mile hike takes about 20 to 30 minutes to complete and takes through beautiful flora and a few historic sites like the Ku’ula Shrine.

Tip: If you’re in Oahu for a limited time, book a Grand Circle Island Tour, which takes you around the island’s top attractions. This is also an excellent way to learn about the history and culture of the island from a local guide.

TRANSFER TO MOLOKAI

On the 5th day, you’ll need to transfer to Molokai. You can get there by flying from Maui, so you’ll need to book a flight first to Maui, then round trip to Molokai. The Maui ferry is no longer in service. If this seems like too much effort, I would skip Molokai and spend more time in Maui and the Big Island.

Hawaii Travel Itinerary Day 5-6: Molokai

Are you looking for the ultimate Hawaii vacation that’s not all about snorkeling, surfing, and sun lounging? Well, there’s no better place than Molokai. This lush island is mostly privately owned, minimally developed, and has some of the highest cliffs in the world.

Nature lovers will appreciate Molokai’s unspoiled landscapes. Take a Molokai sea cliffs discovery flight for uninterrupted views of these towering piers. You might even recognize some of the scenery from movies like Godzilla, King Kong, and The Story of Father Damien.

You’ll want to walk along the shores of Pāpōhaku Beach Park. It’s one of the biggest white sand beaches in Hawaii, perfect for a romantic sunset walk on the beach. Molokai has plenty of hiking trails, and you’ll find the most beautiful scenery in the Hālawa Valley.

This island is also an excellent home base for island hopping in Hawaii. From Molokai, you can visit neighboring islands like Lanai and Maui.

Hawaii Travel Itinerary Day 7-8: Maui

Maui is the second largest island in Hawaii and one of the most visited, and it’s easy to see why. Nicknamed the “Valley Isle”, Maui is home to incredible beaches, valleys, the humpback whale migration, and some of the best sunsets spots in Hawaii. 

Although Maui is filled to the brim with adventure, you should take the first few hours of your day exploring the charming town of Lahaina. This historic town has been transformed into a vibrant hotspot in Maui, boasting quirky art galleries, restaurants, and souvenir shops.

Take some time to walk along Front Street and see if you can find the country’s largest banyan tree . And if you’d like a sweet treat, take a detour to Maui Ku’ia Estate Chocolate Factory for an expert-led cacao farm tour and chocolate tasting.

From Lahaina, you can take a seven-minute drive to Kaanapali Beach. This three-mile shoreline with white sand beaches and crystal water was once named the best beach in America. Kaanapali is only 1.1 miles from Black Rock Beach, a popular cliff diving and snorkeling destination.

But when it comes to the best spots for snorkeling in Maui , Molokini takes the cup. This crescent-shaped islet is actually a submerged volcanic crater and is abundant with a variety of sea life and gorgeous coral reefs.

You can explore Maui’s waters by taking a snorkeling adventure to Molokini and Turtle Town, where you’ll see large populations of Hawaiian green sea turtles. Molokini is also a great place to see the humpback whale migration.

Winter, which is between December and April, is the best time to spot the migration. So take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime experience and go on a two-hour whale-watching experience in Maui.

More Maui Tours to Book:

• Maui Nui Luau at the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa
• Haleakala Sunrise Best Self-Guided Bike Tour with Bike Maui
• 8 Lines Jungle Zipline Tour on Maui – Eco Tour

On the ninth day of your 10-day itinerary in Hawaii, you’ll explore some of Maui’s best off-the-beaten-path attractions. Start the day strolling through Paia, a funky surfing town with colorful Hawaiian houses. The town is one of the most eccentric places to stay in Maui , boasting quaint boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries.

Paia is also a fantastic gateway to the famous Road to Hana. This 64.4-mile-long highway traverses through lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and unique seascapes. The Road to Hana is one of the best scenic drives in the U.S.

You can take a guided Hana adventure tour or drive via a rental car . Using the latter is highly advisable as it allows you to make pit stops and detours to top attractions along the way.

Another notable attraction you’ll find along Hana Highway is the serene Garden of Eden Arboretum, an ideal spot for waterfall hiking and having a picnic.

Now, you’re probably wondering what the final destination is; well, get ready for the black sand beaches at Waiʻānapanapa State Park. Yes, black sand! The Waiʻānapanapa State Park is a remote and rugged volcanic coastline offering you solitude in bustling Maui.

But before you head to the next destination in your itinerary for Hawaii, start your day with a grueling but incredibly satisfying 11-mile drive to watch the sunrise at Haleakala Crater.

This Haleakala sunrise tour takes you up a massive volcano, where you’ll witness a kaleidoscopic sunrise featuring orange and red hues. The tour also offers a complimentary breakfast — fuel for the journey to your next stop.

Tip: Want to spend more than two days in Maui? Check out this perfect five-day Maui itinerary .

TRANSFER TO BIG ISLAND

At the end of the 8th day, you’ll need to transfer to the Big Island. You can fly on Hawaiian airlines from Maui. It takes about 40 minutes and costs around $100.

Day 9-10: Hawaii (Big Island)

Last but certainly not least, you’ll spend the last of your 10-day Hawaii vacation itinerary on Hawaii’s Big Island. Also known as the “Island of Hawaii”, Big Island is the newest and largest of the archipelago, nearly twice the size of all the other islands combined.

But Big Island’s size is not the only attraction that keeps people visiting. The island is also known for its extremely active volcano named Kilauea, situated within Volcanoes National Park.

And there’s plenty more to see in Big Island, from lava lakes to ancient historical sites and coffee farms in Kona. Since you’re only on the island for one day, book this day tour and explore the best of what the island has to offer.

Kona is an excellent starting and ending point for your trip around Big Island. Take a walking food tour of Kona and discover the island’s culture through a gastronomical adventure. This culinary journey takes you through the best restaurants and bars in Kona.

Next, head to Punaluʻu Beach for some fun times rolling around in the pitch-black sand. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot a few turtles basking along the beach between 11 am and 3 pm. Keep in mind that swimming at Punaluʻu Beach is only allowed when there aren’t any strong currents.

From Punaluʻu Beach, you’ll go through Volcanoes National Park, where you’ll see stunning lava streams and smoky calderas. This Hilo shore excursion also takes you to the mesmerizing Rainbow Falls.

Before wrapping your last day in Hawaii, drive to the summit of Mauna Kea for breathtaking sunset views. This sunset and stargazing experience atop the highest point in Hawaii gives front-row seats to a spectacular celestial show. 

Wrap up the day with a Manta Ray night adventure in Kona . This expert-led night tour is unique to Big Island, allowing you to get up-close views of manta rays. You’ll find snacks, drinks, and snorkeling gear on board.

What to Pack For Your 10-Day Hawaii Itinerary

When deciding what to pack for your Hawaii itinerary in 10 days, you’ll need to consider the amount of time you’ll spend there, the weather, and the activities on your itinerary. Here’s a short list of essential things to add to your Hawaii packing list :

• Lightweight travel clothes like shorts and t-shirts are essential when visiting Hawaii during its warmer months.
• Packing cubes will help you optimize your luggage storage and keep your clothes and accessories organized.
• You’ll need comfortable walking shoes . Bring a pair of sneakers and flip-flops or sandals for those casual strolls.
• Bring a hydration pack or water reservoir to keep you hydrated during those strenuous hikes.
• With over 100 beaches dotted all over Hawaii, you’ll need a swimsuit, a wet suit , or a beach cover-up.
• Sunhats, caps, SPF sunscreen , and UV-protective sunglasses are a must-bring on your vacation to Hawaii.

Best Time to Visit Hawaii

Hawaii’s enduring balmy weather makes this state a year-round destination. But if you had to pick a time, the best time to visit Hawaii is between April and June and from September to November. During this time, temperatures are comfortable, and the rainfall is at its lowest.

If you want to visit Hawaii but avoid the peak season crowds, consider visiting Hawaii from January to March and between July and August. These shoulder months tend to see lower accommodation prices.

Summer is obviously the peak season in Hawaii. However, most attractions can get crowded with hotel, plane, and excursion tickets that are generally higher.

Oddly, winter is also a great time to visit Hawaii, especially coming from a cold country. Similar to the shoulder seasons, winter sees lower hotel prices.

Travel Tips for Your 10-Day Hawaii Itinerary

Here are a few tips to help you make your trip to Hawaii as seamless as possible. Now that you’re logistically ready for a 10-day Hawaii itinerary, read up on a few cultural and social cues you should know:

• Aloha is how locals say “hello” and “goodbye” in Hawaii. This is often said with enthusiasm, easygoingness, and utmost friendliness.
• Learn a few basic Hawaiian words to interact with the locals on a deeper level. And so that you can find your way around the islands even without a translator. Mahalo means “thank you”.
• Remember that Lei etiquette is extremely important. Each island has its own traditional Lei, and your receipt of one when you arrive or leave Hawaii is a special way of showing aloha and affection.
• When visiting a local’s home, always take off your shoes and leave them at the door. This is a sign of respect and is a largely practiced custom in Hawaii.
• Always be respectful of historic landmarks and archaeological sites. Hawaii is home to numerous well-preserved ancient sites that must be kept that way at all costs. Avoid touching sacred sites, disturbing people at places of worship, or leaving any trash behind.

Wrapping Up Your Perfect Hawaii 10-Day Itinerary

There you have it! A perfect 10-day Hawaii itinerary. Now all that’s left is for you to clear your schedule and start planning for an epic adventure. Hawaii is a stunning archipelago riddled with volcanoes, black sand beaches, and some of the highest cliffs in the world.

This lush chain of islands in the Pacific Ocean is one of the best places to visit in the United States , and for a good reason. So what are you waiting for? Take this best Hawaii itinerary, customize it to your preferences and get ready for a thrilling adventure.

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Be Prepared For Travel Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

• Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
• Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
• Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
• Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

Like this post? Why not save it to Pinterest? FOLLOW US  on  Pinterest ,  Instagram ,  Facebook  for more great travel inspiration and tips.

Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

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Hawaii Itineraries

Itineries for the hawaiian islands - single & multi-day itineraries, itineraries for single & multi-day trips to the hawaiian islands.

Incredible beaches, verdant mountain scenes, countless waterfalls, an abundance of tours and activities, and the aloha spirit are just a few of the reasons Hawaii remains one of the most desired travel destinations in the world. With several unique islands to choose from, countless accommodations options, and various activities to partake in, and sights to see, it can be a bit overwhelming to get started planning.

That's where our Hawaii Itineraries come in handy. We've curated several Hawaiian Island itineraries based on varying lengths of stay and/or interests (themes) to help you plan the ideal Hawaiian vacation no matter which island(s) you ultimately decide to visit. For Kauai, Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island, we offer one-day , 2-day , 3-day , 4-day , 5-day , 6-day , 7-day , and we additionally provide a 10-day itinerary for the Big Island, all designed to help you get started planning your perfect trip to the Hawaiian Islands. Whether you're visiting to celebrate your honeymoon, to experience an action-packed adventure, or relax on a family vacation, below are each Hawaii Islands Itineraries to help you get started.

• Why use our itineraries to plan your trip?
• How to use our itineraries on your Hawaii trip...

Itineraries by Hawaii Island

Hawaii's top rated gps tours, sponsored by: shakaguide, why use our hawaii itineraries to plan, travel guide's to help you plan for a visit to each hawaii island.

At some point in planning your vacation to Hawaii, it’s probably going to hit you, “Wow, this is a lot harder than I thought it’d be... there’s so much to do.”  Welcome to the state where the possibilities for activities and adventures are limitless, to where you’ll likely never find yourself bored unless you simply refuse to leave your hotel room. This portion of our website is here to help you find some focus in planning your trip and should allow you to organize what you want to do into simple itineraries.  Planning your vacation doesn’t have to be a chore, and hopefully, our recommendations will be of assistance in your own preparation.

For nearly 25 years now we’ve been visiting Hawaii and making detailed notes about what each island’s highlights are and what visitors like yourself simply must-see based on the limited time you’ve allocated for each Hawaiian Island. It is difficult and can even be overwhelming to start planning a trip to Hawaii. One quick look on this website and you’ll soon discover there are hundreds of possibilities per island ; a variety of sights to see, a plethora of beautiful beaches to choose from, and a diverse set of incredible trails that criss-cross each of the unique Hawaiian islands. Honestly, you could spend months in Hawaii and not see and do it all. Having a reliable guide, that’s key.

Most visitors come to the islands for about a week and a half , but if you’re like the typical traveler to the Aloha state, you may want to split your trip up between islands. Each island has its own unique “personality” and unique feel, no two are exactly the same. We recommend most travelers visit at least two islands if you’ve got enough time to do so. Pre-pandemic, in 2019, the average visit in Hawaii between all islands was roughly 10 days (9.3 to be exact). As we mentioned, most visitors visited two or more islands during their visit, splitting their time according to their interests.

Average rounded length of stay per island:

• Maui : 8 days
• Kauai : 7 days
• Big Island : 7 days
• Oahu : 6-7 days

How many days should I spend on each island...

How to use our hawaii itineraries for your trip, hawaii 'pack-and-go' wayfinder guides for daily excursions.

Ultimately, we’ve designed our itineraries around a set number of on-island days: offering one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, and in some cases, ten days for exploring the island, soaking in the best sights, and ensuring your precious time (and potentially money) on each island are well spent. We’ve tried to balance our itineraries between those who seek adventure and those who are looking to find a good beach and relax. Overall, we want your experience to be exactly what you’ve dreamed of when planning your Hawaii trip!

For each island, we’ve attempted to split up the itinerary days by sorting attractions according to their geographic proximity; i.e; on West Maui day, you’d explore the best of West Maui’s attractions, beaches, and activities.

Our itineraries are not meant to necessarily be followed consecutively, which would probably be exhausting, but instead as a grab-and-go resource for ‘mapping’ your trip - think of us as a Wayfinder’s guide to each Hawaiian Island . We always like to travel by making day-by-day plans, putting the most important attractions and activities (the must-see and do) upfront, and if the weather doesn’t cooperate one of those days we just switch that day with another. That way we always get to the important stuff first, and if we have to skip anything, it’s ideally the minor attractions only.

We’ve provided directions via Google Maps when possible, as Google Maps works on all platforms and across all devices. You should be able to pop the directions into your phone or tablet and go. To help you visualize each day’s itinerary, we’ve also provided overview maps that'll help you get your bearings.

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Map out your Perfect Hawaiian Getaway. We help you plan every aspect of your trip: online trip tracking; discover flights , hotels , car rental , activities ; provide you with a plan; and final itinerary for your trip to Hawaii.

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Safety tips, top activities in hawaii.

The Dolphin Discoveries tour offers anyone eager to experience Hawaii's marine environment a memorable, safe, and exciting journey.

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Dolphin Discovery Adventure

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Diamond Head Crater

The Road to Hana is FILLED with one incredible distraction after another! Waterfalls and banyan trees, bamboo forests and black sand beaches.

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One Ocean Diving's Marine Research and Conservation Shark Snorkel Experience is an unforgettable opportunity for marine lovers, while promoting sustai...

Shark Excursions $ --> $150.00

Shark Dive (Snorkel with Sharks)

Avoid Crowds and Stay Close to Waikiki - Oahu's Premier Surf Lessons!

Surfing Lessons $ --> $139.00

Surf Ala Moana

Learn how to master the stand up paddle board in a fun, supportive environment, where the water is warm and you have plenty of space to try ...

Paddle Boarding (SUP) $ --> $129.00

SUP Ala Moana Beach Park

Snorkel the most popular and beautiful spot in all of Hawai’i, Kealakekua Bay.

Snorkeling Tours $ --> $99.00

Captain Cook Afternoon Snorkel

Oahu’s top luau with an award-winning production and show, unlike anything else!

Luaus $ --> $129.00

Ka Moana Luau Classic Seating

Bite Me Sport Fishing makes your sport fishing adventure truly exciting while creating unforgettable memories aboard this stunning vessel!

Fishing Excursions $ --> $155.00

Sport Fishing - 40' Egg Harbor

Town and beaches provide an idyllic environment for relaxation and exploration, and Hawaii Shark Encounters will give you an entirely new appreciation...

Shark Excursions $ --> $125.00

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The Myths of Maui oceanfront luau features a sumptuous all-you-care-to-eat buffet, complimentary cocktails and a beautiful celebration of ...

Luaus $ --> $115.00

Myths of Maui Luau

Koloa Landing is widely regarded as one of the best shore dives in Hawaii, offering an immersive experience that will leave you in awe.

SCUBA Diving $ --> $155.00

Koloa Landing Shore Dives

Garden Isle Diver’s Boat dives are the best way to see Kauai’s premier diving sites. Two tank boat diving remains the most popular ...

SCUBA Diving $ --> $185.00

Experience Stand Up Paddle at Pokai Bay - Multiple Options Available!

Paddle Boarding (SUP) $ --> $109.00

SUP Pokai Bay

Raft tours may include viewing and entering sea caves as well as snorkeling; your tour captain will make the decision whether it is safe enough.

Dolphin Excursions $ --> $189.00

Na Pali Coast Raft Adventure

Tour the Na Pali coast, one of the Top 10 Wonders of the World in comfort and style with The Makana (The Gift).

Sightseeing Boat Tours $ --> $189.00

Na Pali Coast Tour on the Makana. Max 12 passenger

This journey provides intimate, unique access to volcanic sites.

Hiking $ --> $179.00

Hidden Craters Hike

Spend an inspiring and exhilarating day in North Kohala, a land of stunning beauty and profound cultural significance. Zipline high above ...

Zip Line $ --> $299.00

Kohala Zip & Dip

Popular information.

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Your Perfect 7 Days in Hawaii Itinerary

Like so many others, Hawaii had been at the top of our bucket lists for years.

Back in 2016, we decided we would embark on our first long-haul trip together – and it definitely wasn’t difficult for us to decide on Hawaii and start planning our trip.

We’d decided that we wanted to spend 7 days in Hawaii, with a stopover in Los Angeles on the way there, and another stopover on the way back in San Francisco . For us, this was the perfect West Coast USA itinerary ! 

For now though, we’ll be focusing on Hawaii.

This 7 days in Hawaii itinerary will allow you to see the main highlights and attractions of two beautiful Hawaiian islands : Oahu and The Big Island .

Are you ready to get hit with a dose of wanderlust? Here we go…

Days 1-4: Oahu

Day 1: honolulu.

When travelling somewhere new, we always recommend spending the first day getting settled into your hotel or apartment, getting your bearings in the local neighbourhood and just generally taking it easy.

This allows your body to adapt to your new surroundings, while ensuring you don’t feel rushed to start sightseeing immediately.

That’s why we’re recommending this first day of your 7 days in Hawaii itinerary is spent getting to know Honolulu, Hawaii’s state capital.

Take your time to unpack and then walk along Waikiki Beach… despite the skyscrapers and general city hustle and bustle, it’s a very relaxing walk.

This will also give you a chance to follow your nose to some delicious street food!

During our visit, we instantly smelled garlic and found the tastiest garlic shrimp and honey coated chicken wings platter.

Once you’ve gotten your bearings and eaten, round off your first day with a rest on Waikiki Beach itself.

The beach is sandy, comfortable and the bay provides the most perfect conditions for swimming in… especially when greeted with a sunset at the end.

Day 2: Day Trip Around Oahu

When visiting Oahu, make sure you venture away from the capital as this will give you a real flavour of what the island has to offer.

While Honolulu is certainly more touristy and busy, the rest of the island is a tropical paradise and oh so beautiful!

If you’re driving, then we’d recommend spending a full day exploring the island. This will be a long 9-10 hour day but you’ll see a lot during that time.

For non-drivers, we’d highly recommend finding a company that will take you on a full day tour of the island .

As we’re huge fans of the TV show, Lost , we chose a package that was tailored around the various filming locations , but this was also a great way to see the island itself.

Check out these great tour options via Get Your Guide:

Read More: Finding Lost Filming Locations in Hawaii

Day 3: Pearl Harbor

No first-time visit to Oahu is complete without seeing Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial.

It’s super easy to catch a local bus to take you from downtown Honolulu to Pearl Harbor (and back again) costing just a couple of dollars.

Or you can join a day trip tour if you prefer.

You’ll easily spend 3-4 hours visiting each of the exhibits and war ships at Pearl Harbor while learning more about this devastating piece of history.

To visit the main attractions of the Pearl Harbor site itself, it’s recommended to book your tickets in advance online. This will allow you to skip quite a lot of queues, especially as this is such a popular attraction!

If you’re also interested in seeing the USS Arizona Memorial while you’re here (also highly recommended), then you have a couple of options.

You can book tickets in advance online…

But for those of you who are on a budget and willing to take a little risk, the staff do also offer 1300 free walk up tickets on the day on a first come, first serve basis.

Most people recommend you arrive as soon as the complex opens (at 7am), but we’re just going to include our mini-story, which is:

“We visited Pearl Harbor on a Wednesday in the middle of September at 11am and were able to get tickets for both of us for free.” True story.

So the risk may be worth it, but obviously it’s not guaranteed that you’ll have the same luck as us!

Related: 29 Incredible Hawaii Bucket List Ideas & Things To Do

Where to eat in Honolulu

For some amazing street food, head to Sam’s Kitchen for some seriously tasty garlic shrimp and honey coated chicken wings.

And for a delicious sit-down dinner, we can highly recommend the Waikiki Hula Grill . It’s a little on the pricier side, but it’s got great seaside views, good service and delicious food.

Read More:  Epic 3 Day Oahu Itinerary For First Time Visitors

Day 4: Travel To The Big Island

It’s time to say goodbye to Oahu and start making your way to The Big Island for another few days of paradise and stunning spots in nature!

The best way to get to The Big Island from Oahu is by catching a domestic flight, which takes about an hour and can be booked on a budget.

Although it’s fairly easy to fly between the islands, the majority of flights connect at Honolulu, which is why this 7 day itinerary is so simple!

This fourth day will be all about getting to The Big Island from Oahu, and then settling in on the other side and exploring your new neighbourhood.

Days 5-7: The Big Island

Day 5: volcanoes national park.

One of Hawaii’s biggest draws is that it’s an island built out of volcanic rock and still home to active volcanoes you can watch bubble and boil away.

So you should waste no time in getting out and exploring the best of Volcanoes National Park.

In just one day, you can visit the Volcanoes National Park Visitor Center to learn more about volcanoes, hike through an active crater at Kīlauea Iki, walk through Thurston lava tunnel and marvel at the glow of lava from Kilauea at night (a volcano that has been continuously erupting since 1983).

Whether you decide to drive yourself around each of these locations, or embark on a tour , you can easily see all of this (without rushing) in about 6-8 hours.

Here are a couple of great tour options from Get Your Guide:

Day 6: Rainbow Falls & Mauna Kea

Sticking with the volcano theme, your next day should be spent admiring the views from the top of the Mauna Kea mountain , which is roughly in the centre of The Big Island.

Although Mauna Kea hasn’t erupted for over 4,500 years, it’s still considered to be a dormant volcano.

But what’s most interesting about it is that it provides stargazers with one of the best night sky views in the world, which is why the world’s largest astronomical observatory has set up camp near the summit.

As an ordinary visitor, you have the chance to see an incredible sunset from 13,000 ft up the mountain…

And stargaze for as long as you want from 9000 ft up.

You’ll need a 4×4 in order to reach 13,000 feet, but there are also plenty of tour options available .

Many of which will also include a visit to Rainbow Falls, a very pretty waterfall and another top attraction near Hilo , on the way to Mauna Kea.

Here are some example tours from Get Your Guide: 

Fun Fact: We were able to get discounted tours to both the Volcanoes National Park and Mauna Kea mountain when booking direct to stay at Arnott’s Lodge in Hilo. It was a great saving, so we’d highly recommend doing the same if you can.

Day 7: Hilo

Your final day on The Big Island (and the final day of this Hawaii itinerary) will sadly be spent packing your bags and saying goodbye to a beautiful place.

However, if your flight isn’t until the afternoon or evening, then you should definitely spend the day in and around Hilo .

Here are a few places you must visit if you have time:

• Keaukaha Beach Park – a stunning beach park that looks like it’s made up of lots of mini tropical islands
• Liliuokalani Park and Gardens – a Japanese-inspired zen garden and very relaxing place to visit
• Hilo Bay Cafe – offering pretty views of the bay and delicious food

Read More:  Hawaii Big Island Itinerary – 3 Incredible Days on The Big Island

Where to eat in (and near) Hilo

For an informal lunch and relaxing dinner, head to Hilo Bay Cafe . Make sure you leave some room for dessert!

If you’re after traditional Hawaiian food (and you have a healthy appetite), then take a trip out to Verna’s III Drive Inn to either eat there or takeaway.

There are lots of options available — we shared the Hawaiian Platter between us for $11, which included seaweed wrapped pork, special rice and loads more.

RELATED:  A Guide To Planning Your First Trip To Hawaii

We hope this 7 days in Hawaii itinerary helps with some inspiration ahead of your trip. We’d love to know what you’re planning on seeing and where you’re planning on going, so leave us a few comments below…

Need help planning your trip to Hawaii? We also offer custom travel planning services !

Did you like this? Pin it now, read it again later!

Justine Jenkins

Justine is one half of the married couple behind the Wanderers of the World travel blog. She lives in Bristol, UK and has travelled extensively within Europe and beyond since 2013. After her trips, she shares detailed travel itineraries, helpful travel guides and inspiring blog posts about the places she's been to. When she's not travelling overseas, you'll find her joining her husband, Scott on various day trips, weekend getaways and walks within the UK, which she also writes about on Wanderers of the World. Aside from travelling and writing, she also loves reading, crafting and learning about nature.

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The Perfect Oahu Itinerary | 3, 5, and 7 Days (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Wondering the best way to spend up to 1 week on Oahu? Our Oahu itinerary includes all the best attractions and sights around this stunning Hawaiian island!

The most visited of the Hawaiian Islands , Oahu, is referred to as the “Gathering Place” for obvious reasons. 

Home to world-famous beaches, like Waikiki Beach on the South Shore or the iconic surf beaches of the North Shore, Oahu is notorious for its towering waves that reach over 30 feet in the winter.

These waves, particularly those on the North Shore, lure in surfers worldwide to show off their skills and bravery to conquer these impressive waves.

And though the crystal clear blue waters and white-sand beaches of Oahu are famous, drawing in millions of visitors every year, there is more to the third largest of the Hawaiian Islands than its beaches. 

Oahu is full of history, culture, and traditions, which can be experienced in most of its top attractions.

Another impactful reason why Oahu attracts millions of visitors each year is that it was the place of the World War II Pearl Harbor attack, resulting in multiple memorials established on the still active military base on Ford Island. 

To experience the best attractions during your trip, use our crafted Oahu itinerary for three, five, and seven days on the island.

Our itinerary for Oahu covers the best things to do, and allows you the flexibility to spend anywhere from 3 days to one week in this tropical paradise!

Table of Contents

Day 1 Morning – Sunset Beach

Day 1 afternoon – turtle bay , day 1 evening – polynesian cultural center , day 2 morning – shark’s cove, day 2 afternoon – waimea valley, day 2 evening – waimea bay , day 3 morning – laniakea beach , day 3 afternoon – haleiwa surf town , day 3 evening – dole plantation , day 4 morning – pearl harbor national memorial , day 4 afternoon – ford island, day 4 evening – hilton hawaiian village waikiki beach resort, day 5 morning – waikiki beach , day 5 afternoon – hike diamond head state monument, day 5 evening – hanauma bay , day 6 morning – sea life park hawaii, day 6 afternoon – lanikai beach , day 6 evening – kailua beach , day 7 morning – kaneohe bay , day 7 afternoon – kualoa regional park , day 7 evening – kualoa ranch , when is the best time to visit oahu, hawaii, getting around oahu, hawaii, best hostel in oahu, best mid-range hotel in oahu, best luxury hotel in oahu, how to spend up to 7 days in oahu itinerary.

From catching waves on the North Shore or the South Shore to learning about Polynesian culture, there are plenty of popular things to do in Oahu.

Our itinerary for Oahu is designed to establish a core three-day itinerary that can be extended to five and seven days for a fulfilling and memorable experience on this breathtaking island! 

Check out our ultimate guide to the 25 best things to do in Hawaii for more ideas!

Core 3-Day Oahu Itinerary

This Oahu itinerary is the core of any trip to the tropical paradise of this Hawaiian Island. Three days is the minimum recommended time to be spent in Oahu, and we’ve curated this itinerary so you can make the most out of your trip during your three days on the island! 

Day 1 in Oahu

Start your first day in Oahu by hitting the refreshing clear blue waters of Sunset Beach on the North Shore for a swim.

Then, check out Turtle Bay for sightings of endangered species of green sea turtles and Hawaiian monk seals. Finally, end the day with an exceptional cultural experience at the Polynesian Cultural Center, voted the top attraction on Oahu! 

A two-mile stretch of sandy heaven on the North Shore of Oahu, Sunset Beach is a legendary surfing spot for its massive waves in the winter.

Big wave surfing is a hit here, so if you’re visiting during the winter, watching these courageous and experienced surfers hit these dangerously large waves can be worth the watch! 

During the summer, the waves at Sunset Beach are much flatter and safe for swimming and snorkeling in. And, if you time it right, you can bask in the most vibrant and colorful sunsets at Sunset Beach, hence the name. 

Read Next: Don’t plan your time in the Hawaiian Islands without or Hawaiian itinerary guide.

Named after the green sea turtles that once fed in the bay, Turtle Bay is on the north shore of Oahu, located between Kuilima Point and Protection Point. 

The picturesque scenery here is unforgettable, with its clear blue waters and white sands. Nearby is the luxurious Turtle Bay Resort , set on 850 acres with views of Kuilima Cove. At Turtle Bay Resort, guests can access snorkeling, swimming, cultural lessons, hiking trails, and more! 

While visiting Turtle Bay, there is a chance you may spot humpback whales, turtles, and Hawaiian monk seals while savoring the impeccable wild coastline views. 

Located on the north shore of Oahu, the Polynesian Cultural Center has been consistently voted the island’s #1 attraction!

A living museum, the center’s six Polynesian villages, and performances bring the Polynesian spirit to life for visitors to experience the rich history and culture of the Pacific Islands.

Visitors to the Polynesian Cultural Center can wander the 42 acres of tropical land filled with interactive activities as natives demonstrate the beauty of tradition, arts, and crafts.

Then, end the day enjoying an authentic Polynesian lūʻau for an exceptionally memorable first day on the island!

• Address: 55-370 Kamehameha Hwy, Laie, HI 96762
• Phone Number: (800) 367-7060
• Hours:   12:30 PM – 9 PM (Monday-Tuesday, Thursday-Saturday), Closed (Wednesday, Sunday)

Visiting another Hawaiian Island? Check out our list of the best things to do in Maui !

Day 2 in Oahu

Start day two of your itinerary for Oahu with snorkeling at one of the top diving destinations in the world: Shark’s Cove. Walk amongst history and encompassing natural beauty at the sacred Waimea Valley.

Go cliff diving in the summer at Waimea Bay between swimming in the water and lazing in the sun! 

Featured as one of the Top Twelve Shore Dives In The World by Scuba Diving Magazine, Shark’s Cove is a must-visit on the north shore of Oahu if you want an unrivaled snorkeling and diving experience!

Shark’s Cove is a small section of Pupukea Beach Park, the bottom of its blue waters creating small caves for marine habitats to prosper or hide.

The walls of the cliffs forming the cove are a calm pool for fish to swim in, away from the threat of the open water. This continues to the Pupukea tide pools on the south side of Sharks Cove, a popular spot for families to take their kids to explore the waters. 

Read Next: Read this post so that you don’t miss out on all of the best places to visit in Hawaii .

Waimea Valley is a vital part of Hawaiian history, representing Hawaii’s culture, tradition, and spirituality.

The mission of Hi’ipaka is to share and celebrate the living representation of the Hawaiian culture of Waimea Valley with the world. 

Acting as a botanical garden and sacred historical site, Waimea Valley is a unique experience you should not pass up. It features some of the best waterfalls in Hawaii, some of which are safe to swim at while savoring the lush nature of Oahu’s forests.

Waimea Falls is one of the most notorious hikes, easy for families to trek, and one of the spots to go swimming as the sound of the rushing waterfall fills the background. 

• Address: Haleiwa, HI 96712
• Phone Number: (808) 638-7766
• Hours: 9 AM – 4 PM (Tuesday-Sunday), Closed (Monday)

On Oahu’s north shore, Waimea Bay is legendary for its 30-foot waves that attract surfers worldwide to surf during winter!

The most popular spot for watching these surfers hit the waves is at Banzai Pipeline and Sunset Beach. However, in the summer at Waimea Bay, the waters are much more tranquil, perfect for swimming, diving, and snorkeling.

You’ll even notice daring cliff divers launch off the massive half-submerged rock on the shore into the water below! 

Read Next: Be sure to add these great things to do in Oahu while you’re there!

Day 3 in Oahu

Laze in the sun with massive sea turtles at Laniakea Beach while basking in the breathtaking coastal views. Grab a shaved ice and go shopping in a historic surf town.

Try the world-famous Dole soft serve and find your way out of the maze at Dole Plantation. Day 3 of your itinerary for Oahu is going to be action-packed!

Translating to the “wide sky,” Laniakea Beach’s breathtaking scenery is a wondrous sight, even with the turtles lazing about on its sands.

Laniakea Beach is most commonly called “Turtle Beach” because of all the turtles seen at this Oahu beach. 

Many people come to this glorious beach to observe the giant sea turtles as they cuddle in the sand and soak in the sun’s warming rays. It’s a highlight of any Hawaiian vacation!

Picnicking and setting up on the sand to relish the beautiful sights is common at Laniakea Beach. However, the water is known for being a bit rough, so proceeding with caution is important! 

A historical and cultural hub spot, Haleʻiwa is a charming surf town on Oahu’s North Shore.

Throughout Haleʻiwa are cute boutiques, quality restaurants, historic plantation buildings, unique surf shops, and defining art galleries. 

Numerous food trucks serve delicacies like fresh shrimp and shave ice for a refreshing snack before surfers hit the water and visitors take on the town for fun finds. Shave ice is a classic Hawaiian treat, so definitely try some while visiting Hawaii!

The town of Haleʻiwa is included in the Seven Mile Miracle of Hawaii, one of the most revered concentrated stretches of surf breaks known on the planet. 

A historic pineapple plantation, the Dole Plantation is one of the best attractions on the island of Oahu, drawing in over a million visitors every year!

Home to the world’s largest maze in 2008, the Pineapple Garden Maze at the Dole Plantation features almost three miles of winding paths across three acres of land. The maze is made up of 14,000 native Hawaiian plants.

The plantation started as a fruit stand in 1950 and has since solidified itself as one of the top Oahu attractions, serving up its world-famous Dole Soft Serve. 

• Address: 64-1550 Kamehameha Hwy, Wahiawa, HI 96786
• Phone Number: (808) 621-8408
• Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM (Daily)

Read next: The 21 Best Things To Do In Kauai, Hawaii

5 Day Oahu Itinerary

Are you looking for a 5-day Oahu itinerary? If you decide to extend your Oahu vacation, simply add the five-day itinerary to the core three-day itinerary for a memorable and fulfilling trip!

Day 4 in Oahu

Today, head to the South Shore of the island to learn about the impactful history of Oahu and the United States at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial.

Then, visit the active military base and home of history at Ford Island. Finally, check out the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort, where non-guests can enjoy the saltwater lagoon and hit the beach for a day of family fun! 

The location of one of the most impactful moments in United States history, the Pearl Harbor National Memorial, is where the attack on Pearl Harbor by Japanese Forces in World War II occurred.

The memorial preserves the USS Arizona Memorial, the ship that sank after being hit by a missile and then bombs. 

Visiting Pearl Harbor and its museums is free, though reservations are recommended as it can get crowded at these popular attractions.

This Pearl Harbor, Arizona Memorial & Honolulu City Tour guides you through downtown Honolulu while learning in-depth educational facts about the historical sites and memorials. 

• Address: 1 Arizona Memorial Pl, Honolulu, HI 96818
• Phone Number: (808) 422-3399
• Hours : 7 AM – 5 PM (Daily)

An islet located in the center of Pearl Harbor, Ford Island , is used by the United States Navy for battle simulations and training. The native name of the island is Mokuʻumeʻume, though Ford Island has been called Little Goats Island, Rabbit Island, and Marin’s Island. 

Ford Island is an active military base and home to the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, the Battleship Missouri Memorial, the USS Oklahoma Memorial, and the USS Utah Memorial.

A visit here is full of history, having been named on the National Register of Historic Places and a National Historic Landmark. 

An upscale resort settled on 22 acres that stretches across Waikiki Beach, Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort features a spa, five pools, a saltwater lagoon, an oceanfront steakhouse, and 20 restaurants. 

Whether you stay at this classy hotel or not is up to you, but guests and visitors alike can hit up the resort’s saltwater lagoon – Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon. The five-acre lagoon is perfect for lazing in the water or on beach chairs and trying stand-up paddle yoga.

Outside the resort is Duke Kahanamoku Beach, where visitors can take surf lessons or savor the immaculate vibes of soaking up the sun while sipping on a refreshing pina colada! 

• Address: 2005 Kālia Rd, Honolulu, HI 96815
• Phone Number: (808) 949-4321

Here is our full list of the best things to do in Honolulu if you find yourself with extra time!

Day 5 in Oahu

Learn how to surf at one of the world’s most famous beaches, and then try hiking Diamond Head State Monument for a fun day out in nature. Finally, snorkel your way through the magical waters of Hanauma Bay, stock full of vibrant colored marine life! 

Drawing millions of visitors every year, Waikiki Beach is by far one of the most famous beaches in the world!

Visitors to Waikiki Beach are welcomed by the iconic statue of surfing legend and father, Duke Kahanamoku.

This beach, in particular, is notorious for being an excellent location for learning how to surf and paddle on authentic Hawaiian canoes due to its lasting wave breaks. From Waikiki Beach are inspiring observational points of Diamond Head and the sea. 

Consider this Waikiki snorkel and sailing adventure to cruise on a catamaran, whale watch, go snorkeling, and sail the waters for a rejuvenating experience!  

Diamond Head is a volcanic cone on Oahu, and its ridgeline is likened to a tuna fish’s dorsal fin, hence its Hawaiian name Lēʻahi (brow of the tuna).

When British soldiers traveled to the surrounding location in the 19th century, they mistakenly believed the calcite crystals on one of the nearby beaches were diamonds, hence its name, Diamond Head. 

The Diamond Head State Monument is accessible by a hiking trail that traverses a scenic path up to the 300,000-year-old volcanic crater. From this spot, hikers can relish the breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the island of Oahu.

This Diamond Head Sunrise Hike takes you up to breathe in the panoramic views atop Diamond Head as the sun rises, then savor a refreshing acai bowl and sweet treat for a rewarding delight!

Home to a prosperous marine ecosystem, Hanauma Bay was formed within a volcanic cone. The marine embayment is part of a tuff ring, its waters thriving with tropical fish, playful dolphins, and gentle sea turtles. 

Snorkeling and swimming are popular activities within Hanauma Bay, thanks to the safe swimming waters and optimal marine life sightings.

There is a rental shop for renting out snorkel gear, picnic tables, restrooms, showers, locker rentals, a gift shop, and a food concession stand, making it easy to spend a whole day scouring the waters of Hanauma Bay!

7-Day Oahu Itinerary

Our 3-day itinerary is the core of any trip to Oahu for a fantastic start to your vacation on the island. However, if you plan on staying longer, our 7 day Oahu itinerary compiles even more top attractions.

With 7 days on Oahu, you’ll have more time to explore the rugged Windward Coast, which is often overlooked by the Oahu North Shore and South Shore. Get ready to have the trip of a lifetime with our 7-day Oahu itinerary!

Day 6 in Oahu

For day 6 in Oahu, you’ll head to the Windward Coast, a dramatic and beautiful corner of the East Coast of the island. Visit Sea Life Park and hit up the two top-ranked beaches, Lanikai Beach and Kailua Beach, for a breathtaking experience in a tropical paradise!

Located on Oahu’s Windward Coast, Sea Life Park is an aquarium, bird sanctuary, and marine mammal park all in one.

Then, take your pick between two of the world’s most pristine beaches, Lanikai Beach and Kailua Beach, nestled conveniently next door to one another, to savor the undeniable beauty of Oahu! 

At Sea Life Park, visitors can experience the magic of many beautiful marine creatures that focuses on conservation and education. This is a great activity for the whole family!

• Address: 41-202 Kalanianaʻole Hwy, Waimanalo Beach, HI 96795
• Phone Number: (808) 259-2500
• Hours: 10 AM – 4 PM (Daily)

You need to have at least a few relaxing beach days while visiting Oahu! Also known as Kaʻōhao Beach, Lanikai Beach is nestled on the east shore of Oahu.

Representing Oahu as one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, Lanikai Beach is frequently ranked as one of the best beaches across the globe!

The cool blue waters are a sight for sore eyes, the sand soft to the touch. Experience a bit of heaven at Lanikai Beach while savoring the breathtaking ocean views! 

One of the other top-ranking beaches on Oahu, Kailua Beach, is an absolute stunner next to Lanikai Beach! The two beaches are within walking distance of one another, so you can get a taste of both worlds at these top-ranked beaches.

Kailua Beach hosts a longer stretch of sand than Lanikai Beach, perfect for settling down in the sand and basking in the awe-inspiring views of the turquoise waters and mountain backdrops. 

Day 7 in Oahu

Picture the iconic sights of Kaneohe Bay before you as you explore the waters of this enriching location on Oahu.

Then, sink your toes into the sand and kayak to an island of legends at Kualoa Regional Park. Finally, to end this 7-day Oahu itinerary, visit the iconic filming locations of the famous Jurassic Park movies at Kualoa Ranch!

The largest sheltered body of water of the main Hawaiian Islands, Kaneohe Bay, is established by a reef. It homes a sandbar and five islands, including the well-loved Coconut Island. These qualities have made Kaneohe Bay a popular boating, fishing, and kayaking spot. 

The stunning blue waters of Kaneohe Bay make for an impactful picture. In fact, Kaneohe Bay has been the backdrop for quite a few famous movies, including Adam Sandler’s 50 First Dates . Surrounding the bay is the Ko’olau Mountain range, establishing an iconic backdrop. 

Settled on Kāneʻohe Bay, Kualoa Regional Park sprawls across 153 acres, its beachfront area set within sight of the island of Mokoli’i.

This island is featured in ancient legends and is said to be the tail of the creature slain by the goddess Pele. As a result, many come to Koʻolau Range to kayak to the island from the beachy shore.

It has a long stretch of grassy space that separates it from the Kamehameha Highway, so visitors of the park can simmer in the crash of the waves at the beach. 

• Address: 49-479 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaneohe, HI 96744
• Phone Number: (808) 768-8974
• Hours: 7 AM – 8 PM (Daily)

Famous for being the filming location of the Jurassic Park series, the 4,000-acre Kualoa Ranch is a private nature reserve and working cattle ranch overflowing with thriving nature. 

On Kualoa Ranch’s Jurassic Adventure Tour, guests are taken on an adventure of the iconic film sites within the Hakipu’u, Kualoa, and Ka’a’awa Valleys.

The tour takes visitors to the authentic dinosaur cages used for the movies and sightings of the Indominus Rex paddock and its 60-foot walls! 

• Address: Kaneohe, HI 96744
• Phone Number: (808) 237-7321
• Hours : 7:30 AM – 6 PM (Daily)

Read next: 21 Best Things To Do In Waikiki, Hawaii

Oahu, Hawaii Travel Guide

Now that you know all about the wonders of Oahu, you can plan some of the logistics! From getting a rental car, to planning the best time to visit, to booking a hotel or vacation rental, here are some travel tips for visiting Oahu!

The best time to visit Oahu is in the off-season when tourist crowds aren’t so large, and weather conditions are still ideal for adventuring the island’s great outdoors.

We recommend visiting in April, May, September, and October. These months are also the cheapest months to visit, so look out for some great deals during your stay! 

If you’re visiting the island for those iconic surf breaks, you’ll want to visit in winter. This is when the waves are at their biggest and best! But remember, these waves are for experienced surfers only. If you’re a beginner surfer, you can learn to surf on small waves at any time of year.

When traveling around Oahu, a rental car is the best way to get around. You have the freedom to go wherever, whenever.

But if you don’t want to rent a car, Oahu’s bus system is one of the best in the United States and is one of the cheapest transportation methods on the island (minus walking, but that can only get you so far!). 

There’s also this Honolulu Airport private transfer for when you fly in or out of Honolulu Airport. The transfer can fit up to 14 passengers in the private van, perfect for big groups or families visiting the island. 

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.

Where to Stay in Oahu, Hawaii

If you’re wondering where to stay in Oahu, there are great options for every budget! Waikiki is the most popular area to stay with the most options, and it’s near the airport. From here you can rent a car or book tours to the rest of the attractions on Oahu!

Offering a range of selections, The Beach Waikiki Hostel by ALOH has pickings for private bedrooms and dorm rooms during your stay in Oahu. Only two blocks from the famous Waikiki Beach, this hostel is a great stay featuring fun and welcoming vibes with a desirable location near Oahu’s best attractions.

Boasting a desirable location, Waikiki Central Hotel is within walking distance of top Oahu activities, such as the US Army Museum of Hawaii, Waikiki Beach, and Kuhio Beach. From the rooms, guests have balcony views of the city from above while savoring their relaxing stay on the island. 

Only three miles from Diamond Head, ESPACIO The Jewel of Waikiki is a luxurious and elegant hotel perfect for living the lavish life in paradise on Oahu. Guests can access desirable amenities and accommodations, including airport transfers, the hotel’s spa, the resort pool, and a Japanese-French restaurant. 

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!

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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The Perfect 10-Day Hawai'i Itinerary: Oahu + The Big Island

Maggie Senor

https://www.foratravel.com/guides/H2EK4L/the-perfect-10-day-hawaii-itinerary-oahu-the-big-island-maggie-senor

Adventure Travel

Couples Travel

Luxury Travel

Hawai'i

Curator’s statement

Hawai'i is pure magic. The moment you land, the Aloha spirit just takes over you. Hawai'i truly offers something for every type of traveler; but is especially perfect for honeymooners. It's the perfect mix of romantic and adventurous. While I love every island, my favorite mix is Oahu + The Island of Hawai'i (aka Big Island). Read on to learn why :)

The Fora Difference

Book with Maggie to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.

Killer perks

Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you

Personalized recs

Customized travel planning for your style

Insider knowledge

Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there

Where to stay

The ritz-carlton o‘ahu, turtle bay.

Experience the pinnacle of luxury and serene island beauty at The Ritz-Carlton O‘ahu, Turtle Bay.

$100 food / beverage credit.

Breakfast daily.

Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki

Iconic pink-walled property on Waikiki Beach with 528 warmly decorated rooms and suites.

$100 hotel / resort credit.

Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Waikiki Beach

Immerse yourself in the tropical paradise of Moana Surfrider, where historic charm, stunning oceanfront views and luxurious amenities combine for an unforgettable escape in the heart of Waikiki, Hawai’i.

Welcome amenities.

ESPACIO The Jewel of Waikiki

Discover unparalleled luxury and breathtaking views at ESPACIO, The Jewel of Waikiki.

Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Autograph Collection

Island-style hotel with an array of activities including legendary Hawaii surfing.

Fairmont Orchid Hawaii

A Hawai'i resort and spa located on the Kohala Coast, surrounded by lush tropical gardens, cascading waterfalls and a tranquil white sand beach and lagoon.

Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection

Royal, family-friendly Hawai'ian hotel nestled along the dramatic Kohala Coast, in the center of five great mountains.

Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort

The iconic Kona Village Resort is located on the Kona Coast of the Big Island of Hawai‘i, a historic and culturally rich destination.

Unlock perks by contacting Maggie to book your trip.

Get in touch with Maggie

Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.

You can normally expect a response from Maggie within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).

Your message has been sent to Maggie !

Learn more about what to expect when working with an advisor.

Day 1: Arrival

Arrival at Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu, on the Island of Oahu.

Exploring the island at your leisure is by far the best way to see all that Hawai'i has to offer. I always recommend renting a car in Hawai'i.

Take a quick, but very scenic drive to Oahu’s North Shore and check in to your hotel, The Ritz-Carlton O‘ahu, Turtle Bay .

Dinner at Beach House by Roy Yamaguchi , onsite at hotel

Day 2-3: Relax, Explore & Eat

Enjoy complimentary breakfast included (when booked with a FORA advisor).

Options to fill your days:

Relax on the property, drink by the pool, take a dip at the beach or leverage your $100 USD resort credit towards an onsite activity - options include Horseback Riding, Paddleboarding, Snorkeling, Pickleball and Bike Rentals!

Book a Spa Service at the onsite spa ( another way to leverage your resort credit) Offering treatments both indoors + outdoors (plus, top it off with some complimentary champagne to celebrate)

Feeling like leaving the hotel for a bit? Head east for another scenic drive along the North Shore!

Khuku: My personal favorite stop is the town of Kahuku. Just a short drive from the hotel, you will find the popular Khuku Roadside Food Court - aka food trucks galore! This outdoor food court simply can’t be beat when it comes to the quantity of food trucks, the diversity of cuisine offered and the quality of the food (everything from desserts to shrimp to loaded fries!) My personal favorites are Giovanni’s “Aloha Shrimp” Truck and Seven Brothers at the Mill

Lāʻie: Pick up some food and head to Lāʻie Point State Wayside to enjoy your to-go meal overlooking the ocean from the lookout point! Afterwards spend some time visiting Polynesian Cultural Center in Lāʻie

Dinner at Alaia , another incredible dining option onsite at Ritz-Carlton Oahu, Turtle Bay.

Day 4: Waikiki

It’s time to head to your next destination - the iconic neighborhood of Waikiki!

Spend the day making a ton of pit stops along the way. Here are my suggestions:

Grab Breakfast on the road!

Kuilima Farm Stand (opens at 9am everyday) where you will find a wide array of fresh fruit and fruit bowls

Ted’s Bakery - craving a breakfast sandwich or fresh pastry? Look no further!

Stop at Banzai Pipeline to watch surfers at one of the most popular surf beaches in the world

Head to Shark’s Cove, a rocky coastal area with tidal pools swarming with small fish - this is a perfect spot for snorkeling (plus showers and restrooms to freshen up before moving on!)

Grab Lunch in Pupukea at their Roadside Food Court.

Sunrise Shack - Shark’s Cove - here you will find organic coffees, fresh smoothie bowls, and health-focused snacks.

Aji Limo Truck - a Peruvian Japanese fusion food truck outpost.

North Shore Tacos - dare I say the best Tacos on the island?!

Visit Waimea Falls

A mostly flat, paved trail will lead you to Waimea Falls. The relatively short and easy walk takes you past a variety of flora, such as giant ferns and lily ponds, and culturally significant archaeological sites including a series of reconstructed Hawaiian Hales (houses). When you reach the falls, take a dip in the clear water to cool off!

Drive to Laniakea Beach, another great spot for snorkeling AND have a possible turtle sighting!

Walk + shop around the town of Hale’iwa

Grab drinks/dinner. Some recommendations include:

Uncle Bo's Haleiwa

Teddy's Bigger Burgers

Banzai Sushi Bar

Check-in to your hotel on Waikiki beach. My favorite include:

The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort

Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa

Day 5: Hike

Take a Hike! – I mean that literally :)

Hike Diamond Head: A Beginner-type hike, iconic to Oahu.

Head to Island Brew Coffee House for a post-hike breakfast

Drive along the coast and relax at the beach: My personal favorite, Halona Beach Cove. Here you can relax, swim, cliff jump and see Halona Blowhole!

Dinner in Waikiki

Paia Fish Market, Waikiki

Duke's Waikiki

OR at one of your hotels onsite restaurants

Day 6: The Big Island

Breakfast at hotel overlooking Waikiki Beach OR grab coffee and pastries at Island Vintage Coffee Waikiki

Book a mid-morning private surf lesson on Waikiki Beach (available throughout the day with 1-hour or 1.5-hour options!)

OAHU → BIG ISLAND

Take an afternoon flight to Kona Airport

My favorite hotels on the Island of Hawai’i / Big Island include:

Fairmont Orchid - Hawaii

Grab dinner onsite at your hotel!

Day 7: Kona

Start the day by grabbing a local favorite: Malasadas - from Manuela Malasada Co. in Waimea.

Then kayak to Captain Cook’s Monument.

Afterwards, head to the town of Kona to shop, relax, explore and dine! (If you need a coffee pick-me-up, I suggest HiCO – Hawaiian Coffee )

Don’t miss grabbing a beer flight at Kona Brewery : Many beers offered here are only available on the island :) Try them all – you won’t be disappointed. For a little food – The on-site pub serves handcrafted pizzas, plus other items (I suggest the pizzas!) Plus, don’t forget to pick up some merch to rep Kona Brewing back home!

Other Dining/Drinking options in Kona include:

Sushi Sam’s - the best sushi on the island, hands down (really, one of the best restaurants, period).

Willie’s Hot Chicken - inspired by the iconic Nashville hot chicken tradition, Willie’s has quickly become a go-to spot in Kona for both locals and visitors.

Quinn’s Almost by the Sea - Quinn’s is a cross between an old-timey seafood restaurant and a classic American beach bar.

Izakaya Shiono Kona - offers a laid-back vibe, perfect for a casual lunch of authentic Japanese food, sushi & homemade ramen noodles. (Plus, tons of Sake!).

Magic’s Beach Grill - located directly on the water, this is a perfect spot to have a craft cocktail and do some people watching.

Jackie Rey’s Ohana Grill - just the right mix of fine dining and aloha casual. (My suggestion: start with their Mac-Nut Ahi Tartare!!).

Huggo’s On the Rocks - offering an awesome happy hour in a super fun atmosphere, with live entertainment.

Day 8-10: Island Adventures

Complimentary breakfast at your hotel (included when booking with a FORA Advisor)

Or A few suggestions to fill up your last 3 days:

Head to the Southernmost Point of the US. (Park at Green Sand Beach Parking lot - then locals will transport you down further for $15 pp each way or you can hike it!)

Take a Helicopter Tour to see the waterfalls of the islands from above

Check off a National Park. Head to Volcano National Park for an unforgettable hike.

Hit up Eagle’s Lighthouse Cafe for some pre/post-hike fuel.

Book a Sunset + Stargazing Tour of Mauna Kea

Craving a beer? Check out Big Island Brewhaus in the lovely town of Waimea. (Plus, it's a great neighborhood to walk around and support local businesses!)

Head to ‘Akaka Falls State Park for epic waterfalls views, just a short walk from the parking lot!

Hit the road for a self-guided tour of the many Coffee Plantations and farms around the Island. Some of my favorites include:

Sunshower Farms

Uncle Kimo’s Coffee Shop

Holualoa Kona Coffee Co.

Need to know

Contact me to book your honeymoon, babymoon, anniversary trip or any other type of getaway to any of the Hawaiian Islands. I truly love it here and cannot wait to help you fall in love with the Aloha spirit, too!

Travel Advisor

Let's talk about customizing this itinerary for you. Or, about other destinations.

Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.

This itinerary is a part of our ongoing series on travel to Hawai'i . Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out Awilda Rivera's guide, Weekend in Hawai'i: An Adventurous 3 Days on The Big Island

First Time In Hawaii: A Perfect One Week Hawaii Itinerary

This Hawaii itinerary is authored by Kiyoko Hall .

The state of Hawaii consists of 137 drop-dead gorgeous islands, and is still growing!

It’s no surprise that there is quite a bit to do and see, which can make trip planning pretty tough. You could spend ages exploring just the 7 inhabited islands and barely scratch the surface.

So how do you get the most out of 7 days in Hawaii? Check out this one-week Hawaii itinerary!

Planning Your Hawaii Trip NOW?

Here is the quick low down for your Hawaii itinerary!

🗺️ Top Experiences and Tours in Hawaii

• Get your dose of culture at the Polynesian Cultural Center
• Chase waterfalls at Waimea Waterfall
• Take an Oahu Boat Cruise to Diamond Head
• Tackle the Na Pali Coast by doing a Snorkel and Sail tour
• Do a Twilight Volcano Tour on Big Island

🏨 Where to Stay During Your One-Week in Hawaii

• Fun yurts at Sunset Hale
• Relax in Kauai at Kauai Beach Resort & Spa
• Stay at the water’s edge at Plumeria Cottage
• Waikiki Studio is in the heart of Waikiki
• Enjoy your own private Rainforest Cottage

🚘 Looking for a way to get around? See current car rental deals here.

Table of Contents

Your First Time In Hawaii Itinerary

Resources for your trip:, oahu itinerary – day 2, the best oahu tours to take, where to stay on oahu, top kauai tours, where to stay on kauai, the big island itinerary – day 5, the big island itinerary – day 6, top big island tours, where to stay on the big island, 17 legendary american road trips, california road trip itinerary: 19 must-visit stops, your 1-3 day yosemite road trip itinerary (plus tips and where to stay), 13 cool things to do around rapid city, south dakota, 27 incredible waterfall hikes on the west coast, usa.

Oahu Itinerary – Day 1

There is no better way to spend your first time in Hawaii than by jumping right into the culture on your first day. Guests of the Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort can learn lei making from some of the staff.

All the supplies are provided, so you can make your own lei while learning about its cultural significance to the people of Hawaii.

After that, make your way to the Polynesian Cultural Center . It’s a bit expensive, but I highly recommend the tour that includes the luau and night show.

The Polynesian Culture Center is a place dedicated entirely to preserving the various traditions and cultures of the Polynesian countries.

The center consists of six different “villages,” each having various shows and activities to help visitors learn about their respective cultures.

At the luau, you get to eat some scrumptious, traditional Hawaiian food, and at the evening show, you get to see all of the villages come together to showcase their talents and traditions.

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How to Get Free Accommodation Anywhere!

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Travel Jobs + Visas

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• How to work around the world (& travel longer!)

Despite being a large tourist attraction, Diamond Head is still a must for any Hawaii itinerary.

Despite the history that surrounds it, it offers breathtaking views of the bright blue ocean and the bustling city of Honolulu.

The hike to the top of Diamond Head is only 0.8 miles, but is quite steep and involves many steps. Make sure to get there early in the morning, as the parking lot will most likely fill up after 8 AM.

If the parking lot is full, you have to park down further and then hike up to the park entrance, which adds to your already strenuous hike.

If you’re a history buff or just a fan of the TV show Hawaii Five-O, swing by the famous statue of King Kamehameha (frequently shown in various scenes of Hawaii Five-O).

Hawaii was originally a monarchy under King Kamehameha, who was known for uniting all the Hawaiian islands into one nation and ending the conflict that had existed among them. Across the street from the statue is Iolani Palace, the royal residence of the monarch family.

End the day with a relaxing afternoon on the popular Waikiki beach.

It will likely be crowded, but it should still be possible to find your own little spot on the sand to sit back and relax.

It’s a must-visit beach for your first trip to Hawaii. If you’re feeling cliché, you can try and write something memorable in the sand before the water comes up and washes it away!

On Friday nights, you can even see fantastic firework shows held out over the water.

RELATED: A Guide to Finding the Best Long Term Travel Insurance .

Oahu Itinerary – Day 3

At first glance, day 3 of this Hawaii itinerary seems a little jam-packed with activities, but it is easily do-able even at a slow pace. However, it’s another early morning so make sure you get to bed at a decent time and grab the best breakfast in Waikiki before heading out for the day.

Pearl Harbor is another one of those must-visit places for a Hawaii itinerary, if only for the historical significance.

The bombing of Pearl Harbor is what ultimately brought the United States into World War II, and its importance in US history makes it quite interesting, even for those who aren’t overly excited about history.

“December 7, 1941 — a date which will live in infamy” – President Franklin D. Roosevelt

The main attraction at Pearl Harbor, a tour of the USS Arizona, is free, but still requires a ticket (as they limit the number of entries per day). Tickets are available for reservation in advance but are quickly snatched up.

If you don’t manage to reserve a ticket, don’t fret. 1,300 walk-up tickets are available daily. However, the tickets are first-come-first-serve, so make sure to get there early to ensure that you get a ticket.

If you are particularly interested in history, you can check out some of the other attractions at Pearl Harbor, such as the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park, the Battleship Missouri Memorial and Pacific Aviation Museum, and guided tours of the USS Missouri. If not, head on over to the Dole Plantation.

It may not sound really exciting at first, but Dole Plantation is a great place for people of all ages.

The plantation’s garden is home to several unique tropical plants and offers several informational posts along the way to help you learn more about the plantation and its history.

If you feel like you have strong directional skills/enjoy getting lost, you can attempt to make your way through the pineapple, one of the world’s largest, permanent mazes.

After you’ve tired of wandering around the maze, you can catch a ride on the pineapple express train tour.

If you’ve never been to Japan, I recommend fitting a stop at Byodoin Temple into your Hawaii itinerary. It’s a replica of the original Byodo-in Temple in Japan and commemorates the first Japanese immigrants to Hawaii.

It’s a great introduction to Japanese culture. Plus, it’s a filming location of Hawaii Five-O, Lost, and Magnum, P.I.

There’s no better way to end a busy day than relaxing on a beach. Instead of Waikiki, head over to the less-crowded Lanikai Beach, which is often ranked one the best beaches in Oahu.

The bright white sand beach and endless blue water is definitely a reminder of why many people call Hawaii “paradise.”

While I’m recommending three days, you could spend ages exploring Oahu ! But let’s hop over to the next island…

• Waimea Waterfall & Circle Island Adventure Tour
• Oahu 120-Mile Full-Day Tour Including Dole Plantation
• Oahu Boat Cruise to Diamond Head
• Half-Day Sunset Photo Tour from Waikiki
• Plumeria Studio : This loft-style cabin is close to Sunset Beach and offers views of the mountains and surrounding fruit trees.
• Private Waterfront Airstream: Camp in style in a 15-foot Globetrotter with a covered deck on 15 acres of private beachfront property.
• Hidden Hideaway B&B: A 9-minute walk to Lanikai Beach, this tucked-away property offers peace with a side of free inclusive breakfast.
• Sunset Hale : This yurt-style timber cottage is just a three-minute walk from Sunset Beach on the north shore.
• Waikiki Studio: Right in the heart of Waikiki, enjoy city and ocean views from the 12th floor from your king bed!

Kauai Itinerary – Day 4

If you love to just relax by a beach that is crowded by tourists or go on adventurous hikes, you could easily spend a week in Kauai. However, when trying to see the best of Hawaii in one week, Kauai can be done in a day.

Make sure to catch an early flight on Hawaiian Airlines to Kauai, and have a rental car reserved and ready for you so you can hit the ground running.

Kauai is known for its famous Na Pali coast, some of the tallest sea cliffs in the world.

If nothing else, I recommend doing a tour with the Na Pali Experience to get breathtaking views of the towering cliffs. Most of the tour groups will even take you inside many of the sea caves if the water isn’t too rough.

At the end of the tour, you can go snorkeling by some of the large reefs, and if you’re lucky you can even see some dolphins or sea turtles. Personally, this was my favorite stop along my Hawaii itinerary.

If you have some time before or after the tour, I highly recommend checking out Waimea Canyon . Unlike some canyons that have more of a desert feel, this canyon is quite colorful with its shades of red, brown, and green.

Head to one of the lookout points to get a good view from the top of 3,600 feet deep canyon and maybe even catch a rainbow across one of the many waterfalls found within.

If you have more time, it would be worth hanging out and learning more about the culture and legends of Kauai and even tackling the Kalepa Ridge Trail .

• Na Pali Coast Kauai Snorkel and Sail
• Sightseeing Flight over Napali Coast & Waimea Canyon
• Best of Kauai Tour (+ Flight!)
• Classic Kauai Cottage : Switch off at this artsy cottage with beautiful mountain and ocean views near Anahola Beach.
• Twin Hearts : This handcrafted cottage offers complete privacy within walking distance of Kahili Quarry Beach.
• Chic Crater Retreat: This 2 bedroom condo has eclectic Hawaiian charm within the Poipu Crater, giving it a secluded, unique appeal.
• Plumeria Cottage : Stay right on the water’s edge at this garden cottage near Haena on the island’s north shore.
• Kauai Beach Resort & Spa: You’ll find all your modern amenities here including a gym, spa, pool, bar, and close walking proximity to Nukolii Beach Park.

Depending on how rough the waters were during your Na Pali tour, you’ll want a day to just relax and recover. Even those who don’t normally have problems with motion sickness were feeling a little seasick the day after. 

In the morning, catch a flight to the island of Hawaii (often referred to as “The Big Island” so as not to confuse it with the state of Hawaii) and pick up another rental car near Kona airport. The Big Island is the largest of islands (surprise!), so you’ll definitely want a car to get around.

The Big Island is home to large number of incredible Hawaii tree houses , you should definitely consider staying in one during your time here.

If you don’t get claustrophobic, consider reserving a spot with Atlantis Adventures for a submarine tour.

Once you board the submarine, take a seat in front of one of the many porthole windows, then sit back and relax as the submarine cruises along the bottom of the ocean.

It reaches depths of about 110 feet and gives views of the various sea life that call Hawaii their home and you can even see some of the shipwrecks found in the area.

After the tour, head over to Punalu’u Beach , also known as Black Sand Beach.

The black color comes from lava fragments of the nearby volcano and really stands out next to the beautiful blue of the ocean. Check ahead of time to see whether or not swimming is permitted, as the currents can sometimes be quite strong.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a must if you’ve never gotten to see a volcano up close and personal. I was only at the park for an afternoon, but I very much regret not setting aside an entire day to check out this wonderful place.

The park is quite large and has two main self-guided driving tours: The Crater Rim Drive Tour and Chain of Craters Road. If you have the time, I recommend doing both, as each has unique sights to see.

Attractions along the driving tours include Jagger Museum (which overlooks the ongoing eruption within Halema’uma’u crater), walking through lava tubes (a cave formed from rushing lava), and more.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make the long trek to see surface lava.

It’s about a 10-mile hike round trip, and half of it is over boulder-sized lava rock, so it’s definitely not for the faint of heart. However, how many people can say that they saw lava up close and personal?

If you decide to take on the challenge, make sure to be prepared.

Wear good shoes and bring a large bottle of water. If you intend to go at night (because it’s really cool to see the lava lit up on the mountainside at night), bring a heavy-duty flashlight. Your cell phone flashlight will not be enough.

Also, be aware that you will likely lose cell phone service.

The Big Island Itinerary – Day 7

Rainbow Falls is definitely worth a stop, and it’s so close to Hilo that it’s not out of the way no matter what your plans are for the day.

The majestic waterfall runs over a cliffside and crashes down into a large crater.

From the parking lot, you can stand at the railing and look out at the waterfall. Then take the short pathway and get a view from the top of the waterfall.

Before catching your flight home, make one last stop at the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Gardens. The garden has beautiful views of the ocean, an impressive waterfall, and over 2,000 species of plants.

If you’re not from a tropical area or don’t visit often, it can definitely be interesting to see the unique plant life not found in other parts of the world.

• Hawaii Big Island Full-Day Circle Island Tour
• Big Island Twilight Volcano Tour
• Jeflani Hawaiian Retreat : This beautiful yurt with rainforest views is found in the countryside near Volcano National Park.
• Rainforest Cottage : Enjoy a private stay surrounded by lush forest just 10 minutes from Kona.
• Cliffside Villa : This home comes surrounded by jungle views and is only a 17-minute drive from Hilo.
• Seaside Zen Cottage : Stay right on the beach in a plantation-style home near Holualoa on the west coast.
• Tree Cottage: A bright and modern studio nestled within the rainforest near Volcanoes National Park.

How to Get Around!?

It’s nearly impossible to get around the USA and check out the best adventures without a car! Here are our top recommendations…

Rent a car! I usually find great deals on cars and SUVs here:

Rent a home on wheels! For the more adventurous, rent a van or RV and forgo the hotel room.

What an incredible place! I hope your first time in Hawaii was magical, I’m sure it won’t be your last. Make sure you check when to visit Hawaii so you’re coming at the ideal time of year.

Next time, Maui , Molokai, and the rest will have to be on your list. There are still plenty of under-the-radar areas, like Kihei , waiting to be discovered too.

What are your thoughts on this one-week Hawaii itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in Hawaii? I hope this helped you plan your trip, and be sure to check out my American road trips post to see if road-tripping Hawaii might be best for you!

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>>> Bio

Kiyoko Hall, a blogger, and dreamer, helps travelers streamline their travel planning process and inspires them to visit new places. Sign up for the Footsteps of a Dreamer newsletter and get her free guide “A Dreamer’s Guide to Trip Planning” to start planning your next trip today!

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Nina Ragusa is an adventurer, messy bun master, breakfast fan, and full-time travel blogger. She's been abroad since 2011 and blogging on Where in the World is Nina? for nearly as long. Nina helps people like you move around the world while making money. She loves talking about how to work abroad and online to travel longer! Read more about Nina

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Hello, just loved your blog and really excited for our trip to Hawaii for the first time. travelling with 1.5year old baby for 9days. Could you please help us plan our trip with must see places in all the 4 islands.

Based on Kiyoko’a blog First Time In Hawaii: A Perfect One Week Hawaii Itinerary – did she stay in the same hotel the entire week or moved around?

I stayed in a total of three different hotels. While I was on the island of Oahu, I stayed in a hotel on Waikiki Beach. I stayed one night in a hotel in Kauai, and then the rest of the time was spent in a hotel in Kona on the Big Island.

Let me know if you would like further details!

Thank you. Were the hotels any good? If so can you share the names?

Also on which of the days did you need to rent a car?

Do you think it would have worked just as well to have make Kaui and day trip? Perhaps arrive on the the island pretty early and then take an evening flight to the Big Island? I was thinking, that would eliminate the need to stay in 3 different hotels. I’m considering doing this, so I wondered what you thought. Thanks.

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Home » North America » Hawaii

INSIDER HAWAII ITINERARY for (2024)

Hawaii is a volcanic archipelago in the Central Pacific Ocean. Known for its rugged landscape, its white sandy beaches, outrageously beautiful waterfalls and tropical plant-life, there really isn’t anything Hawaii doesn’t have to offer.

This incredible destination is the perfect place to spend your vacation because of the great variety that it offers. It’s not hard to see why Hawaii has become a favorite destination for travelers, attracting over 9 million tourists from all over the world in 2017.

If you’re looking for a tropical vacation second to none, you better start planning your trip to Hawaii. Be sure to plan ahead before you go, as this is often the best way to make the most of your time away.

If this is your first time visiting Hawaii, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Keep reading our epic Hawaii travel guide to find out what to add to your Hawaii itinerary.

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Best Time to Visit Hawaii

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Hawaii’s temperatures tend to stay pretty warm all year round, although they do cool slightly in the wintertime. If you’re wondering when to go backpacking in Hawaii , the answer is, it’s always a great time to go!

January and February are the coldest months of the year but don’t let that fool you, it’s far from cold! During March, April, May, and June the temperatures steadily climb.

July has the most daily sunshine, with up to 11 hours of sunshine per day. However, August, September, and October are the hottest months in Hawaii. They’re also the best months to go for a swim in the ocean, as the sea temperatures reach a warm 27°C / 80°F. However, these are peak season months, so you’ll also be able to see numbers like prices and tourism shoot up as this is the time when Hawaii is the most expensive .

November is the wettest month of the year in Hawaii and the temperature slowly starts to cool. During December, you’ll experience a sudden drop in temperatures.

Hawaii is made up of a multitude of different islands called an archipelago. This could make it tricky to decide where to stay in Hawaii , but it doesn’t have to be. We think these are a few of the best places to stay in Hawaii.

Maui is the most popular island in Hawaii! Why? Its great variety of beaches are overwhelming. This is a great place to stay if you’re a bit of a beach bum and love spending your holiday relaxing in the sun. If you’re a fan of water-sports and surfing, in particular, you’re guaranteed to have a gnarly time on your Hawaii holiday!

Honolulu is a good place to start your Hawaiian trip and there are a lot of good Airbnbs here and heaps of great Honolulu hostels to check out if you’re backpacking.

For the adventurous at heart, we recommend staying in Kauai for at least some of your vacation. It’s known for its lush mountainous landscapes, as well as its famous beaches. Here you can spend your holiday exploring, hiking and making unforgettable memories from your adventures. Once you’ve finished exploring, you can kick back and relax at a traditional villa in Kauai that offers some homely comforts. If you need to stay somewhere a little more affordable, there are plenty of bed and breakfast options in Kauai .

No matter which island you decide to stay on during your trip, you’re sure to find the perfect hostel, hotel or VRBO in Hawaii . Read on to find out which hostels and hotels you should be adding to your Hawaii vacation itinerary.

Best Hostel in Hawaii – Banana Bungalow

Why is Banana Bungalow the best hostel in Hawaii ? Aside from offering all kinds of activities to guests, it’s also very “Hawaiin. This island-themed hostel is surrounded by palm trees and covered in paintings of the surfer lifestyle so common to the people of Maui. This hostel is perfect for those looking for an adventure as tours leave from the hostel every single day.

Best Budget Hotel in Hawaii – Holiday Surf Hotel

This sea-themed hotel is based in one of the surfing capitals of Hawaii, Honolulu. Each spacious room is equipped with its own kitchenette and bathroom, leaving its guests feeling right at home.

Just a short walk from many of Waikiki’s main attractions, this hotel is perfect for those who enjoy beach walks, surfing and watching gorgeous sunsets over the horizon.

Best Luxury Hotel in Hawaii – Alohilani Resort

This 5-star hotel offers all the facilities you could ever desire in an absolutely stunning location, overlooking Waikiki beach. Home to one of Waikiki’s finest dining spots, the Alohilani Resort provides exquisite food and wonderful service.

If you’re looking for unique accommodation options, here’s our pick of the best tree houses in Hawaii!

In order to explore Hawaii, you should know how to get around. Although public transport is easily accessible, we recommend organizing a rental car for the time you’ll be spending in Hawaii. This way, it will be waiting for you at the airport when you land.

Taking bus tours while you’re staying in Hawaii is also a great way to get around. Be sure to book these tours before you get there, as they tend to book up quickly, especially during the busy season.

When traveling from island to island, you can take the ferry, but for islands that are further apart, we recommend taking a short flight. This will ensure you waste as little of your precious vacation time as possible and that you have a smooth weekend in Hawaii.

Now that you know how to get around, it’s time to decide what you should be getting up to during your stay in Hawaii. Here’s what you should be adding to your Hawaii travel itinerary:

Want to save money on accommodation?

We got you. For reals.

Maluaka Beach | Banyan Tree Park | Maui Brewing Co. | Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm | Wai’anapanapa Beach | Luau

In order to make the most of your holiday, we’ve put together the best Hawaii itinerary. Day 1 of your Hawaii itinerary will take place on the beautiful Maui island. You’ll find yourself spending plenty of time in nature and taking in the gorgeous aromas of Maui. You’ll get the chance to enjoy many Hawaii attractions and some of the best Hawaii landmarks.

Day 1 / Stop 1 – Take an Early Morning Swim at Maluaka Beach

• Why it’s awesome: Maluaka Beach is known for its high population of Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles.
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Gannon’s restaurant is situated perfectly right on the beachfront with a balcony that allows for views of almost the entire island coastline! The food is exquisite and worth every penny. Dining at Gannon’s is not just refueling it’s a unique experience!

Although sea turtles can be found at many of the beaches in Hawaii , Maluaka beach tends to have a higher population of Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles than any of the other beaches. This gave it the nickname “Turtle Town” among the locals. Taking a stroll along the gorgeous sandy beach and breathing in that fresh sea-air is the perfect way to start your morning.

If you’re feeling brave, why not go for an early morning dip in the ocean! With sea-temperatures almost matching the air-temperature in summer, you’ll actually be just as warm in the water as you will be on dry land.

Insider Fact: Don’t be fooled by the name of the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle, they’re not green, but in fact a dark brown. This can make them hard to spot in the water, and they’re often mistaken for rocks, so it’s important to keep your eyes peeled.

Day 1 / Stop 2 – Visit Banyan Tree Park

• Why it’s awesome: In Banyan Tree Park you’ll find a Banyan Tree that’s over 150 years old! This tree is the largest Banyan Tree in the United States.
• Food nearby: Down the Hatch is a casual seafood restaurant that serves amazing food in an open courtyard setting! They boast a great variety on their menu and even serve wonderful shaved ice and cocktails!

This recreational park offers free entrance, and many of the locals choose this very place to take their lunch break or enjoy a picnic. Banyan Tree Park is home to the biggest Banyan tree in the United States, which has 16 separate trunks! The trunks are interlaced and the tree reaches an impressive height of 60 feet, and its canopy stretches over two-thirds of an acre!

This is a tree you’re not going to want to miss during your visit to Maui! There is also a market that takes place in Banyan Tree Park, which is fun to explore while you’re there.

Insider Tip: Be aware that there’s no parking available, so you’ll either have to make do with on-street parking or take public transport. We recommend the latter.

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Learn about Hawaiian Beer at Maui Brewing Co.

• Why it’s awesome: Learn all about Hawaiian beer making techniques at the best brewery in Maui.
• Food nearby: Maui Brewing Co. Restaurant is situated inside the brewery and serves up-market Hawaiian comfort food. Conveniently located right next to where you’ll be taking your brewery tour, you won’t have to splurge on any extra transport. Maui Brewing Co. restaurant serves great quality food to fill you up before tackling the rest of your day.

This 45-minute guided tour allows you to get a glimpse into the brewing process, the cellar and the packaging line. Your tour will end with a tasting of some of Maui Brewing Co. flagship beers! After that, we recommend you stop for a bite to eat at Maui Brewing Co. restaurant. After all that beer, you’re going to need some carbs to soak it up.

Maui Brewing Co. asks that you arrive at least 20-minutes early for your tour, this way you can get a feel for the area and you’ll be sure not to miss any of the action.

If you’re not a drinker, the tour is still very fascinating! And you don’t have to take part in the tasting at the end.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Visit Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm

• Why it’s awesome: Ali’i Kula Lavender farm opens its gates to guests who would like to explore and roam the Lavender fields.
• Cost: $3 USD.
• Food nearby: La Provence is a French eatery that serves delicious French cuisine and delightful pastries! Whether you’re up for a full meal, or just need a little snack, this is a great place to stop before continuing on your adventure!

As you would imagine when visiting a lavender farm, the aromas are wonderfully fragrant! Guests can visit the farm anytime between 9am and 4 pm.

Daily guided walking tours of the farm are offered for $12 USD. On these tours, you’ll learn the history of the farm and how the lavender plants are used and turned into products for sale at the gift shop!

If you’re just not in the mood to walk, cart tours are available for $25 USD per person.

If you’d like to enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch at the lavender farm, then be sure to book at least 24-hours in advance . These munches cost only $25 USD per person and are a great way to enjoy the great outdoors while delighting in a gourmet meal!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – Visit Wai’anapanapa Beach

• Why it’s awesome: Wai’anapanapa is famous for its velvety soft black beach, which is a pretty unique experience!
• Cost: In order to get to Wai’anapanapa beach, you’ll need to enter the Wai’anapanapa State Park which is absolutely free! Camping is also allowed in the park, but that will cost $12 USD per campsite.
• Food nearby: The Preserve Hana serves delicious food in a beautiful setting! Surrounded by tropical bush, the balcony of Preserve Hana stretches into the parking lot, giving you gorgeous views of the surrounding island. They serve lovely comfort food as well as plenty of healthy options! This little gem is a must visit while you’re in the area!

Wai’anapanapa means ‘glistening water’ in the ancient Hawaiian language and glisten it does! End your day the same way it started, with a walk along one of Maui’s most photographed beaches. Despite this fact, the beach remains relatively quiet and deserted.

If you’d like to explore a little further, you’ll find a cave just around the corner from the beach and ancient Hawaiian birthing pools. These are well worth researching before you go so that you know exactly where to find them.

Day 1 / Stop 6 – Attend a Luau

• Why it’s awesome: Immerse yourself in true Hawaiian culture by attending a Luau! This is something you can’t miss out on during your time in Hawaii.
• Cost: You will be charged according to the restaurant you attend.
• Food nearby: Plenty of food will be provided at the Luau. The restaurant that hosts it will charge you accordingly.

Attending a Luau at the Feast of Lele is a true honour during your stay in Hawaii. Lele is the ancient name for Lahaina, which is the name of the beach where the ancient royal family of Hawaii used to feast and entertain.

You’ll get the opportunity to enjoy a 5-course meal while enjoying exciting entertainment. Polynesian exotic dancers from the island will dance for you, and vibrant music will be played during your feast.

If you like, you’ll be given the opportunity to join in with the dancing to give you a feel for true island life!

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Isaac Hale Beach Park | Fuku-Bonsai Cultural Center | Lava Tree State Monument | Hilo Coffee Mill | Cape Kumukahi | Ha-ena Beach | Mackenzie State Recreation Area

To complete the best Hawaii vacation itinerary, we’ve put together a few of the best things to do during day 2 in Hawaii. Your second day will see you spending time in the ocean, visiting a Bonsai nursery, seeing incredible lava formations, sipping on Hawaii’s finest coffee brew and exploring an ironwood forest. Here’s what you’ll be getting up to on the second day of your Hawaii itinerary:

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Surf at Isaac Hale Beach Park

• Why it’s awesome: Considered by the locals to be one of the best surf spots in Hawaii, there’s no better place to enjoy your first surfing experience.
• Food nearby: What could be better than a deliciously creamy gelato after a morning on the beach? Nicoco Hawaiian Gelato serves a great variety of flavors and they’re all absolutely delicious! These gelatos are also very well priced!

It’s no secret that Hawaii was the birthplace of the must-try sport of surfing . Why not learn to surf at one of the best spots out? The waves at Isaac Hale Beach Park are a little rough for swimming but perfect for surfing, so take this opportunity to hop in the water!

The beach park also has many warm tidal pools if you’re in the mood to sit back and relax! Lovely picnic spots are also available and there’s plenty of trails to explore.

Insider Tip: If you do decide to take this wonderful surfing opportunity, be aware that there are many sharp sea-urchins in the water. It’s best to ask the locals where the best spots are for avoiding these creatures.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Visit the Tiny Trees at Fuku-Bonsai Cultural Center

• Why it’s awesome: Fuku-Bonsai Cultural Center displays a myriad of bonsais, grown by the owner and his wife. This center was Hawaii’s first certified export nursery.
• Cost: Free to visit!
• Food nearby: Kurtistown Cafe is the perfect place to stop off for a bite to eat after exploring the bonsai nursery. They serve delicious food in very generous portions and charge very reasonable prices. The staff is friendly and helpful, making it the perfect place to enjoy some casual dining before heading to your next activity.

Fuku-Bonsai has been through so much over the years! Started in 1985, Fuku-Bonsai grew as a business and nursery, supplying Bonsais all over Hawaii and even abroad. After spraying their plants with a defective pesticide in 1989, they suffered a $30 million loss! Fuku-Bonsai managed to make an impressive recovery, but in 2018 the nursery was ravaged by a hurricane !

After all this, you’d think they might have given up, but the nursery is still going strong! If you love the tiny trees that we call bonsai’s, this is a great place to visit during your travels.

Because the nursery is still busy being rebuilt, they ask that you make a donation to their GoFundMe account , to help them expand.

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Visit the Lava Tree State Monument

• Why it’s awesome: The Lava Tree State Monument was almost destroyed when a volcano erupted in 2018, however, the park remained untouched by lava. However the park did have damages from earthquakes, but these damages have now been fixed and the park is open yet again.
• Food nearby: Mighty Sushi is a small sushi restaurant just a 10-minute drive from the Lava Tree Monument. They serve a delicious variety of sushi options and also offer great takeaway platters.

The lava trees are an unusual feature and were created during a volcano eruption in 1790. The forest was in the path of a massive lava flow, and when the lava receded, all that was left was lava molds of the trees that once stood there.

The Lava Tree Loop trail is a 0.7-mile walk that takes you through the forest of incredible lava trees. This is a fascinating and uniquely Hawaiian feature that you simply can’t miss during your time in Hawaii.

Insider Tip: Lava is sacred to the people of Hawaii. For this reason, you need to be respectful and not touch or poke it as so many tourists do.

Day 2 / Stop 4 – Take a Tour of Hilo Coffee Mill

• Why it’s awesome: Learn all about the coffee, tea and chocolate produced at the mill and watch it being packaged!
• Food nearby: There is a coffee bar where you’ll be able to order milkshakes, smoothies and coffee at the Hilo Coffee Mill, however, if you’re looking for something a little more substantial we recommend trying Honi Wai Cafe. They’re a small roadside cafe serving delicious comfort food! The food is really well presented and they serve a great variety of dishes at a very affordable price.

The island of Hawaii produces some of the richest coffee in the world . So there’s no question as to why you’ll be adding a coffee mill to your Hawaii itinerary.

Hilo Coffee Mill offers free tours of the mill for those interested in learning about the production process of coffees, teas and chocolates. If you’d like a longer tour of the mill, there are tours on offer but we found the free tour to be adequate.

After your tour, stop by the tasting bar to try some of their 100% Hawaiian coffee. Try some of their specially roasted flavoured coffees or even their unique green coffee, you won’t be disappointed!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Visit Cape Kumukahi

• Why it’s awesome: Cape Kumukahi is the Easternmost point of the island and holds a special place in the hearts of those who stay on the island.
• Food nearby: Kaleo’s Bar and Grill is an innovative Hawaiian-style Asian-American restaurant that serves incredible comfort food for great prices! They also have fresh seafood that is to die-for. If you’re hungry, this is the perfect place to tuck-in to a delicious meal!

Cape Kumukahi is home to the Kings Pillars, which are pillars that stand proud on the lava surface. These pillars mark the changing of the solstices as the sun moves between them.

In Hawaiian religion, it is believed that Kamohoali’i, the shark king lives just offshore, guarding the waters of life. This is why the area is so sacred to the people of the island.

While you’re in the area, be sure to visit Kumukahi lighthouse, which is about 0.25 miles out from the shore, accessible via lava flow. Although there is no path, it’s easy enough to make your own.

Day 2 / Stop 6 – Hike to Ha-ena Beach

• Why it’s awesome: After a 2.5-mile hike to the ocean, you’ll be well rewarded with your own perfect piece of paradise in the form of Ha-ena beach.
• Cost: Visiting Ha-ena Beach is absolutely free!
• Food nearby: The Dolphin Restaurant is a laid-back eatery that serves fresh seafood dishes including some incredible sushi! It has a very distinct island vibe which makes it the perfect place to stop for a platter of fresh sushi on your way back from the beach!

Some say that paradise is sweeter when it’s earned, and we couldn’t agree more! It may take a bit of a hike through muddy, jungly terrain to get there, but Ha-ena Beach is well worth the extra effort! The black and white sandy beach is a real sight to behold and is one of the most photogenic beaches in Hawaii!

Shrouded in palm trees and dense jungle, this almost deserted beach is the perfect place to enjoy some peace and quiet on your busy holiday! Packing a picnic is a great idea if you enjoy having a meal in solitude, although getting it to the beach may be difficult unless you have a sturdy backpack.

Ha-ena beach has an amazing tidal pool when the water is low, which makes for the perfect place to have a sheltered swim!

Day 2 / Stop 7 – Picnic at Mackenzie State Recreation Area

• Why it’s awesome: A forest of ironwoods lay the perfect shady setting for a picnic, juxtaposed against the harsh rock cliff faces that drop into the ocean.
• Food nearby: Luquin’s Mexican Restaurant is a great place to end your day with a delicious Mexican supper! As you would expect at any Mexican restaurant, nachos, burritos and tacos are served with a healthy side of margarita! With plenty of Mexican options to choose from, you simply can’t go wrong at Laquins.

The Mackenzie State Recreation Area is a great place to stop by for a picnic under the ironwoods. Be sure to walk toward the ocean and witness the immense cliff faces that drop into the ocean! The ironwoods provide a great source of shade, especially in the summertime when temperatures skyrocket.

If you’re in an explorative mood, be sure to follow some of the paths that wind their way through the forest. This is a great way to explore the Hawaiian landscape while sticking to safe areas.

Be sure to take your camera along for this trip as the photos of the cliff faces are guaranteed to be stunning. Be careful not to venture too near the edge of the cliffs, as this can be dangerous!

Hakuna Matata Hostel

Located in the old capital of Lahaina, Hakuna Matata Hostel is a chilled-out place to stay. There are mixed and female-only dorms as well as private rooms and you can meet other travellers in the indoor and outdoor common areas as well as in the communal kitchen.

• Free Breakfast

Pearl Harbour | Napali Coast and Waimea Canyon | Coral Gardens or the Molokini Crater | Atlantis Submarine Tour | Ka’anapali

If you’re staying for more than 2 days in Hawaii, you’re going to need a few extra activities to add to your Hawaii itinerary. Here’s what you should be getting up to if you’re staying for up to 3 days in Hawaii:

Visit Pearl Harbour

• Acquire a full-day pass to Pearl Harbor!
• $75 USD entrance fee.
• Includes narrated tour and access to the historical submarine museum.

On this guided tour, you’ll learn all about world war II and the incredible impact that it had on the USA. During the tour, you’ll enjoy narration in the language of your choice! You’ll get the chance to travel from Pearl Harbor to Ford Island for free.

The tour is very flexible, you’ll be able to enjoy all four Pearl Harbour activities at your own pace and in the order of your choosing. Being able to linger at the activities that interest you most is a great privilege and makes the tour a lot more valuable to each individual.

You’ll get the opportunity to explore the USS Arizona Memorial, which is the resting place of those killed during the time of turmoil and conflict. You may have to purchase your ticket to the USS Arizona separately at the entrance. You’ll get the chance to investigate a real military submarine that dates back to 1942. Here you will get to see real-life submarine artifacts from the 18th century. That being said, make sure that you first check that it’s open to the public .

This tour is well-worth its price as you could easily spend an entire day on this tour.

Sightseeing Flight over Napali Coast and Waimea Canyon

• $150 USD per person.
• The flight will take approximately one hour.
• During your flight, you’ll be soaring high above the island of Kauai.

During your flight, you’ll fly high above some of Hawaii’s most incredible landscapes. Some of which are completely inaccessible by car, and are untouched by human hands! The sights you’ll see during your flight are incomparable to anything you will have seen before.

Your expert pilot will fly you over the spires of the Napali Coastline and over the crystal clear waters of Hanalei Bay. You’ll then get to see the incredible red valley walls of the Waimea Canyon. You’ll also see the magnificence of an epic cascading waterfall from above!

These are all spectacular photo opportunities, so don’t forget your camera on this trip! If you have one, a GoPro is the perfect action camera to take some amazing video footage, but any action camera will do.

During your flight, you will get a feel for the area in a way that you can’t from the ground! This is an incredibly unique experience, and if you have the privilege of staying for more than 3 days in Hawaii, this is a must-do activity!

Snorkel to the Coral Gardens or the Molokini Crater

• This snorkeling trip will cost you around $37 USD
• The snorkeling trip will last for around 3-hours
• Hotdogs and sodas are available for $5 USD on deck, just in case you feel peckish

You’ll be taken out to your diving spot on a 55-foot power catamaran, lead by an expert captain and crew. On this snorkeling trip, you’ll get the opportunity to dive some of the best diving spots in the Maui while using top-of-the-line diving equipment and complementary floating devices.

Once you’ve taken the plunge, you’ll be floating just above a beautiful coral reef. You’re likely to see some incredibly tropical looking fish, such as the parrot fish, yellow tang, cornet fish and the surgeonfish, as well as many others. On a good day, divers will even get the opportunity to see the Spotted Eagle Ray gliding through the reef.

The weather dictates which snorkeling site you’ll get the opportunity to visit. Molokini Crater is absolutely gorgeous and if the weather permits, that’s where you’ll be headed. If not, you’ll head to the Coral Gardens, even although this spot is regarded as second best, it was still named one of the top 10 snorkeling destinations in the world by Coastal Living Magazine.

Atlantis Submarine Tour

• You’ll pay around $130 USD for this tour
• Explore the famous underwater passages of Waikiki beach
• Expect to spend 1.5 to 2-hours on this submarine tour

Experience a whole new underwater world in the world’s largest recreational submarine, which can hold up to 48-passengers. You’ll descend 100-feet into the water in a comfortable air-conditioned submarine with large viewing ports.

On this underwater adventure, you’ll get the opportunity to see marine wildlife up-close in their natural environment. You can expect to see plenty of fish, turtles and beautiful coral reefs.

You’ll learn so much during your tour about the coral reefs, the abundant marine life and submersibles. You’ll even get the chance to see the sunken shipwreck and airplane in the Waikiki area.

The fact that this very tour has been featured on National Geographic should give you a heads up that this is one not to be missed! This is an incredible experience like no other, and shouldn’t be missed, especially for ocean-lovers and anyone else wanting to say that they’ve visited the bottom of the ocean!

Take a Sunset Dinner Cruise in Ka’anapali

• Experience an incomparable Maui sunset from a luxurious catamaran
• You can expect to pay around $105 USD for this luxury cruise
• The dinner cruise will take around 2.5-hours

This cruise is nothing less than an absolutely romantic experience. You’ll depart for your cruise and look back toward the gorgeous Kahalawai mountains. Your ship will be riding the infamous trade winds sailing between Maui, Molokai and Lanai.

You’ll sit down to eat an incredibly delicious buffet-style gourmet meal, prepared by an award-winning chef, while watching the incredible Maui sunset.

This is one of the best ways to make the most out of the time you have in Hawaii. If you’re lucky enough to be spending up to one week in Hawaii, this is an experience you need to add to your Hawaii travel itinerary.

Hawaii could be considered an absolute paradise, and it is! But safety precautions should be taken here, just like anywhere else in the world.

Mosquitos are present all year round in Hawaii, but during the summer they tend to make a pest of themselves even more. This would be nothing more than merely irritating, however, mosquitoes can be carriers of many diseases. No diseases are currently going around in Hawaii, but we advise you apply EPA-registered insect repellent just to be safe. Read more on how to keep mosquitoes away.

Because of the heat in Hawaii, it’s important to wear proper sun protection at all times. Buy yourself a high SPF sunblock before you get there, and we advise that you wear a sunhat at all times while you’re outdoors.

We also advise that you keep your valuables in a hotel safe, and be sure to keep an eye on your belongings while you’re on the beach. Although theft does happen, it’s fairly rare in Hawaii, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.

If you’d like to take further safety precautions, carry travelers cheques rather than large amounts of cash, or know where to hide your cash . Hawaii is generally a very safe state, but travelers are targeted all over the world. For this reason, it’s better to take safety precautions while touring Hawaii.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

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If you’re staying for more than 3 days in Hawaii, it’s a great idea to add some day trips to your Hawaii itinerary. These are particularly great if you’re staying for more than one week in Hawaii. These are a few of our favorite day trips from Hawaii:

Big Island: Evening Volcano Explorer from Hilo

During this 6-hour tour, you’ll drive along the iconic waterfront to the old fishing village of Kalapana. There your certified guide will tell you all about the Kilauea volcano and what you can expect along the way.

You’ll then hike out across the lava flow to the new black sand beach. You’ll stop by Star of the Sea painted church, which is a great place to get a sense of the culture of the area.

You’ll then travel to Hawaii National Park where you’ll get the chance to look over the crater, see the steaming bluffs and witness the cracks and sinkholes in the paved roads that were left behind after the famous eruption of 2018.

If you’ve been inspired by the volcanoes and dense rainforest nearby and want to stay longer in the area, consider checking out our guide on where to stay near Hilo .

Road to Hana Adventure for Thrill Seekers

This 10-hour guided tour will take you along the famed road to Hana, which is 164 miles, (103km) of dense forest, magnificent waterfalls and 59 bridges which were built in the early 1900s.

Your first stop will be at the Ulupalakua Ranch which is one of Hawaii’s oldest Ranches! After much exploration, you’ll leave the ranch and head into what the locals refer to as “the backside” which is the most isolated part of the island.

Along the way, you’ll stop off at some of Hawaii’s best waterfalls for a swim and a picnic as well as visiting some old villages on your way. Your last stop will be at Hookipa Beach, which is considered to be the windsurfing capital of the world!

Best of Hawaii Photography Tour from Waikiki

This tour is for those that enjoy preserving their memories in pictures and videos. On this 5.5-hour tour, you’ll be taken to the most photogenic spots in Hawaii so you can capture a few spectacular shots!

A professional photographer will join you on the tour so that you can put your camera aside and enjoy the moment for at least part of the trip. You’ll stop at 10 gorgeous locations that will take your breath away. If you’re an avid photographer, be sure to join in for this great tour!

North Shore Half-Day Tour

During this 7-hour tour, you’ll explore some of North Shores most scenic areas. Dramatic mountains, ancient temples and beautiful beaches await you on this amazing tour. Be sure to take your camera with, these are the memories you’ll want to preserve!

On this tour, you’ll learn all about the ancient Hawaiian culture and the history of the island you’re exploring. As well as about the foliage and fauna that surrounds you on the tour.

Haleakala National Park, Bike and Zip-Line Tour

Head to one of Hawaii’s National Parks and on this 10-hour tour, you’ll travel to the 10,023 foot Haleakala summit and reach the top by sunrise. This allows you to witness the spectacular sunrise from the top of the mountain! You’ll then bike down the slopes of the mountain, which is a thrilling experience!

You’ll then stop for lunch which will be provided for you. You’ll choose your lunch before embarking on the zip-lining tour.

After lunch, you’ll hit the zip-line for an adrenaline rush like no other! It’s a 5-line zip-line that allows you to tour the slopes of Haleakala in a truly unique fashion.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Hawaii itinerary.

How long do you need for a first time Hawaii itinerary?

Anywhere between 10 days and 2 weeks in Hawaii will give you enough time to travel around the main islands.

What can you do in one week in Hawaii?

Explore Maui’s beaches and nature parks, enjoy coastal hikes, and visit Isaac Hale Beach Park for some epic surfing.

What can you include on a Hawaii honeymoon itinerary?

There’s nothing more romantic than a beach sunset in Hawaii. Take it up a notch by booking a sunset dinner cruise Ka’anapali.

When is the best month to visit Hawaii?

May-September are the best months for visiting Hawaii as these offer the best weather. Keep in mind peak season is between August and September, so prices will be steeper at this time.

Hawaii is one of the coolest states in the U.S to visit! All the perks of a first world vacation, without skimping on that island vibe. There are so many great experiences to be had in this incredible state. If you have more time, you should consider staying in some of the island’s more off-the-beaten-path destinations such as Molokai , Niihau, Lanai, or Kahoolawe for a few days.

If active volcanoes  and luscious hikes aren’t enough to get you in adventure mode, then a lazy day on one of Hawaii’s best beaches just might spark your interest. Hawaii is sure to have something for everyone.

If you haven’t already, be sure to add a few of our amazing activities to your Hawaii itinerary. You won’t regret it! Making sure that every day holds an adventure is the best way to make the most of your Hawaii vacation.

So what are you waiting for? It’s time to turn your Hawaii itinerary into reality!

Buy Us a Coffee !

A couple of you lovely people suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!

You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee . If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

Aiden Freeborn

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How to Visit Multiple Hawaiian Islands in 2 Weeks (itinerary included)

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 .

When planning a trip to Hawaii, the first big decision is what Hawaiian Island should I visit? The challenging decision may result in choosing multiple Hawaiian Islands. This is how you can visit 4 Hawaiian islands in 2 weeks, or less.

Visiting all four Hawaiian Islands makes for a hectic trip of flights, hotel transfers, and non-stop activities. We usually discourage travelers from such an itinerary, especially those with kids. We adamantly advise against such a trip in our 5 Mistakes When Island Hopping video . 

Our advice did not stop newsletter readers Dave and Mary. Flirting with disaster, they embarked on a 13-day, four-island tour. These audacious travelers came out the other side still married and with some lessons to share. You can find more of Dave’s Hawaii and Europe photos on Instagram @davemcquaid .

Thanks to Dave for being our first guest writer at The Hawaii Vacation Guide. Dave is sharing his itinerary for visiting all the major Hawaiian islands and his lessons learned.

Dave & Mary McQuaid are adventurous travelers and have been to all 50 U.S. states and 17 countries in their 34 years together.

Editor’s Note: Consider taking our Which Hawaiian Island to Visit Quiz or reading Which Hawaiian Island to Visit? before reading this article. Plus check out The Best Hawaiian Island to Visit to narrow down your choices if visiting all 4 is (understandably) too daunting!

SAVE $37! If you plan to visit all four islands or need help choosing which three to visit, use the coupon code VOYAGE to get a FREE Wayfinder Itinerary when you buy 3 itineraries.

Can You Visit the Four Major Hawaiian Islands in One Trip?

Yes, if you plan carefully, and are prepared for a few compromises.

If you’re like most folks who plan a Hawaii trip, you’ve got to balance your visit with available vacation days, family schedules, and other commitments. But you also want to make the most of the cost and time required to fly to Hawaii. So, you want to see as much as possible on your trip. For some, this might be a once-in-a-lifetime Hawaii vacation. While a four-week Hawaii visit might be ideal (and many international travelers do this), it’s just not possible for many.

The good news is it is possible to visit all four major Hawaiian islands in two weeks if you follow this advice:

• stay flexible
• realize you won’t see everything on every island. 

Here’s how we did it, as well as the fifteen lessons we learned.

Learn more about each Hawaiian island here:

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

Four Hawaiian Island Itinerary

Here is our full 13-day itinerary for visiting the four major Hawaiian islands. It was a whirlwind trip but fun. 

By sharing our itinerary and the trip planning resources below, we hope we can help you plan a similar adventure to Hawaii.

See Jordan and Erica’s Island Hopping Guide to better understand how to travel between the Hawaiian Islands.

Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary

Maui Wayfinder Itinerary

Kauai Wayfinder Itinerary

Big Island Wayfinder Itinerary

Day 1. oahu ko olina resorts.

We flew from Los Angeles on the first Southwest flight of the day to Oahu. We picked up our Turo (more on that in the lessons learned below) and drove straight to Aulani Resort by Disney in the Ko Olina resort area , arriving shortly after noon. 

We had rented Disney Vacation Club points for 2 nights, making what would have been a pricey stay more affordable. An afternoon in the pool, exploring the beautiful resort, and riding the lazy river was the perfect relaxing start to our trip. 

We closed out the evening with a sunset dinner at the resort’s ‘Ama’Ama restaurant. The meal was one of two fine dining experiences we had planned, and while expensive, the food and service were amazing. You can also close your evening off with a Ko Olina Sunset Sail or Stargazing in Ko Olina Experience .

Save on your entire vacation with these resources and hacks: How to Get A Cheap Ticket to Hawaii: 5 Insider’s Tips The Best Affordable Family Resorts in Hawaii Your Kids Will Love How to Have a Luxury Hawaii Vacation for Less: 12 Ways to Save Visit our sister site bookedwithpoints.com to learn about traveling on points!

Day 2: OAHU DISNEY RESORT

I  left very early for a sunrise hike on the windward side of the island (unfortunately, thwarted by incessant rain and low clouds). At the same time, Mary enjoyed Aulani’s many pools. 

Shortly before 11, we enjoyed a hearty Disney character breakfast (yes, we’re kids at heart) at the Makahiki restaurant.

The showers from the island’s east side were now directly overhead, so we stayed indoors and did some shopping. Although frustrated we couldn’t be a little more active, this forced downtime was probably beneficial with several full days ahead of us.

Editor’s Note: If it rains on your vacation, here is What to Do in Hawaii When it Rains .

The clouds cleared before dinner, so we strolled along the Ko Olina boardwalk to some of the other resorts and watched the sunset from the edge of one of the lagoons before a pizza dinner (with pineapple – because Hawaii, of course!). 

Day 3: OAHU WINDWARD COAST

We checked out of the Aulani and headed across the island to the fabulous Kualoa Ranch for a morning e-bike adventure in the Jurassic Valley, famous for Jurassic World, Lost, and dozens of other Hollywood productions. 

The ranch has a wide range of tours, including bus, horseback, and UTV, which all take you into the valley between lush, majestic peaks. It’s quite an experience, even if you’re not a movie buff. Explore the best Kualoa Ranch tours here . 

After lunch, we headed north up the coast to the Polynesian Cultural Center for the rest of the day. We enjoyed interactive experiences from several different Polynesian islands (including a ukelele lesson, hunting practice, taro farming, and a wedding), before enjoying a festive luau and a night-time Broadway-style show, complete with fire walkers and tribal battles.

There are a lot of things to do at the Polynesian Cultural Center so book the right ticket for your visit: Alii Luau vs Gateway Buffet: How to Decide .

We found it to be a  highly educational experience, even though we felt it was a bit of a theme park vibe. We crossed the island to our new digs for the next 2 nights, an Airbnb condo a block away from Waikiki Beach. 

Related article: Is Airbnb legal in Hawaii? Yes, but it’s complicated

Day 4: OAHU WAIKIKI DAY

We had 6:00 AM reservations to hike the Diamond Head volcano crater (advanced reservations are required), so we set out early and conquered the trail before it got hot. 

The trek up is relatively easy – lots of stairs and some uneven footing, but mostly paved. Strollers can’t go up the rocky trail.  

The views from the top overlooking the ocean and Honolulu are impressive.

But even by 7 am, it was getting crowded at the top. We returned to Honolulu and visited Waikiki Beach for the rest of the morning. While not the most attractive beach on Oahu, Waikiki is iconic – and being a Saturday morning, it was packed. The afternoon was laundry time and shopping along Kalakaua Avenue.

Related articles:

• 10 Best Beaches on Oahu
• Which Part of Oahu Should You Stay?
• 40 Things to Do on Oahu

Day 5: KAUAI HELICOPTER TOUR

We took the first non-stop Southwest flight from Honolulu to Lihue Airport on Kauai. From leaving our Airbnb at 7:20 AM in Honolulu to retrieving our luggage on Kauai at 10:50 AM, the entire trip took only 3.5 hours, giving us a good chunk of the day left.

We had booked a doors-off helicopter tour with Jack Harter Helicopters at 12:45, which was an amazing experience. 

Editors Note: For flying the Napali Coast by helicopter or airplane, check out this doors-off helicopter tour .

Pro tip : Wear layers – we had on long pants and jackets and were still quite chilled! 

Their 65-minute flight took us across the island, along the NāPali coast, and into a number of valleys and cliff cathedrals along the way. The trip was breathtaking, even with a bit of rain mixed in. 

We then retrieved our Turo and drove to our Airbnb near Poipu Beach , one of the best beaches in Hawaii .

• Hawaii Discount Car Rental Options
• Where to Stay on Kauai
• 5 of the Best NaPali Coast Boat Tours

At this point, we learned that the charter boat company we had booked for the next evening’s sunset cruise along the NāPali coast was canceling the sailing due to anticipated rough seas. We knew this was a somewhat common experience in the winter, but thought we’d be clear in May.

After a couple of frantic phone calls, we were able to book the last two seats on a morning trip two days later, the day we would be flying to Maui. We enjoyed the sunset, and a few sea turtles at Poipu Beach before a late dinner.

Day 6: KAUAI SOUTH SHORE DAY

With the canceled sunset cruise having consumed the majority of our day (the cruise was to have left from the harbor around 2 PM, and it was about an hour away), we got what proved to be a welcome respite. 

We spent the morning by the pool and heading into Old Koloa Town for lunch ( Kauai food trucks are the best ) and shopping at the local stores. 

We had an early dinner and stopped for sunset at the Kukuiʻula Harbor Beach. Then we headed back to our lodging to repack our suitcase (by now starting to bulge with souvenirs) for an early departure. 

Day 7: KAUAI NAPALI COAST AND MAUI TRANSFER

We checked out of our Airbnb very early and started the trip to the small boat harbor near Kekaha for our rescheduled NāPali boat tour with Makana Charters . 

Editor’s Note: Watch a video on a Napali Coast Sail and Snorkel tour here to understand sailing the coast.

There are a number of companies that provide charter tours, but we chose this one because their harbor is closer to the tallest portion of the NāPali coast. 

The seas were still quite rough, but manageable while in transit. It was only when the boat anchored for snorkeling and swimming that the pitching and rolling got to be a bit much for some passengers. The crew and captain were outstanding guides and made the cruise, and the amazing scenery, a highlight of our trip.

Editor’s Note: If you’re low on time, check out this popular Kauai Mountain Tubing tour.

Once we docked and got our land legs back, it was a mad dash back across the island in afternoon school traffic along two-lane roads to make our flight to Maui. After a few stressful moments, we arrived in time at the gate, only to find our Southwest flight was delayed because there was no flight crew. 

Fortunately, this was the only flight-related hiccup on our trip, and we still made it to Maui in time to check into the wonderful Ka’anapali Beach Hotel (one of the best beach hotels on Maui ), an affordable but beautiful option.

Explore the Maui Where to Stay directory for hotel and vacation rental options.

Day 8: MAUI ROAD TO HANA

We took the recommendation of this site and booked a Road to Hana tour through Valley Isle Excursions (save 10% with code HVG10 by booking here ). We figured we shouldn’t test the route’s alternate name: Road to Divorce. 

You can find a Complete Road to Hana Guide here .

After a 6:45 AM pickup at our hotel and a light breakfast, we started out on the winding route which took us past waterfalls, lush forests, multicolored foliage, jagged coastlines, black sand beaches, and witty commentary from our guide. 

With stops for banana bread, lunch, and ice cream/shave ice, there was no shortage of food along the way! We returned to our hotel shortly before sunset.

Day 9: MAUI HALEAKALA SUNRISE AND LAHAINA TOWN

At 2:30 AM (yes, AM!) we boarded another bus, this time headed to the top of Haleakalā for sunrise. Valley Isle Excursions came through again and you can get 10% off here with promo code HVG10 . The tour guide Alika (the same guide that Jordan and Erica had , in a random coincidence!) kept us warm, entertained, and informed as we made the drive, while still allowing for plenty of early morning napping. 

Sunrise was beautiful and awe-inspiring, and we enjoyed the robust breakfast at the Mill House. 

We spent the afternoon napping at the pool and beach and strolling along the Ka’anapali Boardwalk. The rain started to roll in, so we headed to Historic Lahaina for dinner , to see the enormous banyan tree, and generally act like tourists. There are a lot of things to do in Lahaina .

Day 10: MAUI UPCOUNTRY TOURS

We booked two farm tours today: the Maui Gold Pineapple Tour and the Maui Chocolate Tour . Maui has a lot of amazing farm tours .

The overnight rains had taken their toll, and while driving to the pineapple plantation we got a call saying the the fields were too muddy to operate the tour. They offered to reschedule, but since we were leaving the next day, we couldn’t.

So, we pulled out our trusty Maui Wayfinder Itinerary and called an audible. 

Since we were in Upcountry Maui , we stopped at the Komodo Bakery in Makawao for malasadas and found a little art and stationery store across the street. 

We then stopped by the Maui Gold company store and picked up a couple of pineapples, packaged as a carry-on. 

We then headed back to Lahaina for the Maui Chocolate Tour (which, thankfully was still operating due to less rain on the west side of the island). 

We got to see cacao being farmed, and a guide led us through a tasting of a variety of chocolates made right there on the island. 

We did another load of laundry, spent some time at the pool and beach, and visited the Honoapiilani Food Truck Park for dinner.

Related Articles:

• 33 Things to Do on Maui
• How to Plan a Trip to Maui
• How to Have an Authentic Hawaii Experience

Day 11: BIG ISLAND TRANSFER DAY

We left the Ka’anapali Beach Hotel after a beautiful traditional kukui nut lei ceremony and headed to the airport for our flight to Kona. 

About 3.5 hours after leaving our hotel, our Southwest flight had landed in the open-air Kona airport right around noon. 

We had originally planned to head up to Mauna Kea for a late-night stargazing tour , but we had canceled a couple of days prior when we began to feel “toured out” and the weather forecast on the mountain looked suspect. 

So instead, we made our way to our Airbnb in Kailua-Kona and spent a little time at the pool. We explored the touristy shops along the coast and watched an outrigger canoe competition before stopping for dinner overlooking the ocean.

Explore the free Big Island Travel Guide to learn more about the island.

Day 12: BIG ISLAND CIRCLE ISLAND TOUR

The Big Island is BIG, as we learned on our Grand Circle Tour today . A luxury coach picked us up near our condo at 7:30 AM, and for 11 hours we circled the island. 

The morning included breakfast at a Kona coffee farm, snacks at Punalu’u Bake Shop, sightseeing at the Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, lunch, and a tasting at the Volcano Winery. 

The afternoon included multiple stops in Volcanoes National Park, including overlooking the Kīlauea crater and a walk through the Thurston Lava Tube, and a trip through Hilo and stops at two waterfalls. 

Overall, it was a wonderful way to survey the whole island in (relative) luxury, with drinks, snacks, hot and cold scented towels, jackets, umbrellas and plenty of narration along the way. 

Dinner, a little souvenir shopping, and repacking suitcases (again!) closed out the night.

Day 13: BIG ISLAND TO HOME

Before our afternoon flight to LA, we drove down the coast to the Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park , where we saw a reconstruction of the Place of Refuge. 

The park helped illuminate some of what we’d learned about traditional Hawaiian culture in our two weeks on the islands. After a lunch stop for Loco Moco, we headed to the airport to clear Agricultural Inspection and head back to the mainland.

Visiting All the Hawaiian Islands: Things We Learned

Would we do it again? Absolutely! We usually aren’t a go-to-one-place-and-sit-for-vacation kind of family, so a 2-week vacation at a single resort on a single Hawaiian island wasn’t in the cards for us. 

We like to do as much as we can and get an overview of the places we visit. So we thoroughly enjoyed all that we could cram into our 13-day trip. But we learned a few things along the way:

• If you’re going to schedule a whirlwind tour of the islands, be sure to plan a good mix of relaxing and action time. We were actually grateful for a couple of the cancellations that we encountered, as that gave us some much-needed downtime.
• Be flexible. Although it’s paradise, inclement weather still happens, which can mean choppy seas, challenging air currents, and muddy fields. And while we only had one minor airline hiccup in our 7 flights, we recognize that we were fortunate. 
• If you have a tour or attraction you want to experience, book it early in your stay on that island. That way, if the operator needs to reschedule, you’ll have a better chance of re-booking on a subsequent day in your stay on the island. See Tours & Activities for the best local tour operators.

• Turo rental cars are a great idea in theory, but they had some real challenges in Hawaii. If a car you’ve reserved gets in an accident before you arrive, you may be left without a rental, or at least one that doesn’t match the features or condition of the one you reserved. In addition, most of the Hawaii airports have put significant restrictions on where Turos may be left or picked up, which complicates getting your car. We reserved our Turos months in advance, and the cost savings over rental agencies were significant (about 25-30%). However, we did some spot-checking once we were on the islands and found rental agency rates had dropped significantly, all but erasing the Turo advantage.
• Although these are laid-back islands, they are also where people live, work, and go to school. Many of the main arteries on some of the islands are still two-lane roads, which can mean traffic jams. While it’s not LA or New York or London or Tokyo, you might still be stuck behind a LONG line of cars going in the same direction as you. So plan ahead and check Google or Apple Maps timing a few days in advance.
• It is possible to fit in other experiences on an island-hopping travel day if you choose your flights carefully. If you fly Southwest, choose a non-stop flight from island to island. Avoid going through Honolulu, as the layover there will add hours to your trip and effectively waste the day. We found that by reserving early, we could usually get a direct island-to-island flight for $49 or $59. For the Maui to Big Island flight, we chose to fly Hawaiian, as Southwest didn’t have a timely direct flight. See the Island Hopping Guide for more tips .
• If you fly Southwest (as we did for most of our inter-island flights), know that the planes aren’t usually full. That means that it’s not necessary to pay extra for an early boarding group. This was our experience and we traveled in June, a busy time on the islands.
• The ubiquitous ABC Stores can be your friend. They stock foodstuffs, cosmetics, various supplies, and souvenirs, and each store is consistently stocked and clean.
• If you choose to visit the Polynesian Cultural Center on Oahu, the popular ticket to book is the Island Villages experience plus the Ali’i Luau and HA: Breath of Life show. Get there as SOON as the gates open. We ended up missing a couple of attractions since we arrived about an hour after opening. Need help to decide on tickets? See this Ali’i Luau vs Gateway Buffett review .

• Check sunrise/sunset times relative to where you live. We found the sunrise much earlier than we were used to (and the skies were bright FAR before sunrise), and the sunset was a good bit earlier as well. 
• Clear off memory space on your phone before you travel. You WILL take hundreds, possibly thousands, of photos and videos, and you don’t want to run out of space (like I did in a helicopter above the Na Pali Coast!). 
• If you visit Oahu, make time – at least a day – to visit Pearl Harbor . We visited Oahu briefly a few years ago and saw it then, so we didn’t include it on our itinerary this time. But everyone should see it at least once.
• As Erica and Jordan stress, plan your trip well in advance – they’ve got a full set of guidelines here . But also, be aware that the sooner you book something, the more likely it is to change. We had one experience change names, another change itinerary, and another change their operating schedule.
• When flying inter-island, you usually don’t need to endure the airport agricultural inspection. However, when flying to the mainland, you almost certainly WILL have to have your luggage inspected, which takes time. We noticed, especially in Maui, this was by far the longest airport line.
• Consider paying for TSA Pre-Check . At less than $80, we found it money well spent since we had seven different flights getting to, and around, Hawaii. In some airports, the regular TSA line wasn’t that long, but in others, it was a big time-saver. And not having to take off your belt/coat/shoes, or remove your liquids or laptops, is a huge stress saver when you’re going in and out of that many airports!

Have fun! It’s a vacation, not a competition. Miss something? All the more reason to come back!

Check out Erica and Jordan’s Wayfinder Itineraries to help you plan your trip to Hawaii. The Maui Wayfinder Itinerary was a life-saver on this trip.

Cruising Hawaii Guide

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Thanks for reading The Hawaii Vacation Guide! I'm the co-founder, with my wife Erica, of the best Hawaii travel guide on the internet in our biased opinions. We enjoy traveling throughout Hawaii after living on Maui and Oahu. We share our adventures, travel tips and resources, and honest reviews so you can easily plan your dream vacation to Hawaii. Editing our videos, teaching the kids how to snorkel, and learning about the 'aina (land) and Hawaii culture are my favorite things to do. Have a wonderful trip to the Aloha State.

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The Secret to a Perfect Hawaiian Itinerary: Tips for Every Type of Family

Need help planning your hawaii family vacation find out how to plan the perfect hawaiian itinerary for all types of travel styles, this guide to planning the perfect hawaii itinerary was written by hawaii travel expert marcie cheung and may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on the link and purchase the item, i will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. all opinions remain my own..

Planning the perfect Hawaiian vacation can feel like trying to find a hidden treasure—especially when catering to a family’s varied needs and interests.

As a mom who’s navigated the beautiful islands of Hawaii with my two boys many times since they were babies, I’ve learned a thing or two about crafting itineraries that keep everyone happy.

Whether your family seeks thrilling adventures, cultural enrichment, or simply wants to relax by the ocean, I’ve got you covered with tips to create your ideal travel schedule!

How to Plan the Perfect Hawaii Itinerary

Understanding your family’s vacation style.

First things first, identify what type of vacation resonates with your family.

Are you thrill-seekers, culture enthusiasts, nature lovers, or relaxation experts? Maybe a mix of a few?

Understanding this will guide your activities and the pace of your vacation.

Remember, Hawaii offers a little something for everyone, from world-class beaches and hiking trails to rich historical sites and exhilarating water sports.

Tailoring Your Itinerary by Age Group

Families with babies and toddlers, accommodation.

Choose a family-friendly resort with amenities like cribs and babysitting services.

Locations like the Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa , cater specifically to families with young children, offering various conveniences and activities in a kid-friendly environment. Read my full Aulani review.

Look for calm beaches with natural shade and minimal waves, such as Waikiki Beach on Oahu or Baby Beach in Lahaina on Maui.

Incorporate plenty of downtime and stick to one major activity per day to avoid overstimulation.

Opt for restaurants known for their quick service and kid-friendly menus. Many places in Hawaii offer outdoor dining options, which can be great for keeping toddlers entertained.

Families with School-Aged Children

Consider renting a condo or a vacation home like those available at Honua Kai or Maui Sunset. These often provide more space and a kitchen, ideal for longer stays and flexible meal times.

Find out more about Beware of Hawaii’s Vacation Rentals: What No One Tells You About Staying with Kids .

Mix educational outings like the USS Arizona Memorial with fun activities like snorkeling or a beginner surf lesson .

Hawaii’s rich volcanic landscape also offers fascinating nature trails that are manageable for kids, such as the Kilauea Iki Trail in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park .

Involve your kids in the culinary experience by trying local foods at less formal settings like food trucks, which are abundant in places like Oahu’s North Shore .

Families with Teenagers

Book accommodations that offer independence, like resorts or hotels with multiple pools, teen clubs, or nearby shopping, such as the Fairmont Orchid on the Big Island.

Plan adventures that challenge and excite, like parasailing , hiking to waterfalls , or even a helicopter tour over the islands.

Allow teenagers to have a say in the itinerary, which can include more physically demanding activities.

Experiment with diverse cuisines at local eateries or upscale restaurants to introduce your teens to new culinary experiences.

Incorporating Hawaiian Culture

No matter the age, incorporating elements of Hawaiian culture can enrich your vacation. Attend a luau where you can enjoy traditional food, music, and dance.

Here are our favorite luaus on Oahu , Maui , Kauai , and the Big Island .

Visit historical sites like Iolani Palace or Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park to learn about Hawaii’s royal history and cultural heritage. These experiences provide a deeper understanding of the island and a richer vacation experience.

Balancing Adventure with Relaxation

Hawaii’s allure isn’t just in its activities but also in its tranquil beauty. Balance days filled with adventure with days meant solely for relaxation.

Spend a lazy day at the beach building sandcastles, reading under a palm tree, or snorkeling just offshore.

Consider a spa day where parents can unwind while kids enjoy supervised activities provided by the resort.

Planning for Weather and Seasonal Variations

Hawaii’s weather can be unpredictable, and certain attractions can be seasonal. Always check the weather forecast before scheduling outdoor activities.

Be flexible and have backup plans ready. For instance, consider visiting an aquarium or museum if a rainy day interrupts your beach plans.

Keeping Everyone Engaged

Include everyone in the planning.

Let each family member choose one activity they’d like to do. This not only ensures everyone’s interests are considered but also helps spread enthusiasm among the group.

Take Breaks

Don’t over-schedule. Hawaii is as much about the aloha spirit and relaxation as it is about adventure.

Capture Memories

Encourage kids to take photos, or keep a journal to document their experiences, turning the vacation into an interactive learning journey.

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

Planning the Perfect Hawaii Itinerary Wrap-Up

Crafting the perfect Hawaiian itinerary doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

By understanding your family’s interests, tailoring activities to suit everyone’s ages, and mixing cultural immersion with leisure, you can create a vacation that’s both enriching and relaxing.

Remember, the ultimate goal is to make lifelong memories under the Hawaiian sun, exploring together and enjoying the islands’ natural beauty and welcoming culture.

So, jump into planning with these tips in mind, and get ready for an unforgettable family adventure in Hawaii!

Looking for more Hawaii tips? Check out 5 Myths About Traveling to Hawaii—Debunked! , Just Booked Your Hawaiian Flight? Here’s What Every Mom Needs to Do Next , The Hawaii Planning Guide Every Mom Needs , and Frequently Asked Hawaii Questions for First-Time Tourists !

Hawaii (Big Island) Itinerary: 5 Days To See The Best Of The Island

W e get it. Not everyone has the luxury of spending weeks on end whiling away the hours in a tropical paradise. Or maybe visiting Hawaii is a once-in-a-lifetime trip for you and you want to see a few different islands. Whatever you reason, lots of travelers choose to spend just 5 days on the Big Island of Hawaii.

Even though it’s a much larger area (with slower driving) than you might expect, you’ll cover a lot of ground with this Big Island itinerary for 5 days. You’ll have a chance to experience what make the Big Island so unique and explore the best things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii! If this itinerary feels too rushed for your Hawaii vacation, feel free to spread it over more days or cut out anything that doesn’t interest you.

Read on to find out where to stay on the Big Island, what to do on Big Island for 5 days, how to get around and more.

Pssssst… don’t forget these essentials for your Hawaii packing list !

Our 2019 visit to the Big Island was actually my third trip. I’ve now visited as a geology student on a very rustic two week visit, as a business traveler at a luxury resort for a quick 5 days in Hawaii and finally as a slow-traveling family exploring on our own (and trying to visit Hawaii on a budget ). Each trip was so different, but they’ve all given me great perspective to share with you as your plan your own Big Island trip. Fortunately you really can see a ton in 5 days on Big Island!

• Quick Planning: What to book NOW for 5 days on Big Island

To avoid disappointment, extra expenses and last-minute schedule scrambled you’ll want to book as much of your Big Island trip as possible well in advance. Go through this quick checklist and get everything arranged, then you can fill in the details later.

Must read tips for renting a car in Hawaii

Compare prices between RentalCars.com , Discount Hawaii Car Rental and Priceline

Accomodations

• Night 1 (optional): Hilo ( inn , hotel or house )
• Nights 1 and/or 2: Volcano ( lodge , b&b or house )
• Nights 3-5: North Kohala Coast ( luxury hotel or apartment )
• Day 3: Captain Cook snorkeling (2pm tour)
• Day 4: Mauna Kea summit tour and manta ray night snorkeling
• Day 5: Luau

Big Island Revealed

The must-have guide book for every Big Island trip

Big Island with Kids

In-depth ideas for families – written by a parent, for parents

What to pack

Getting to the big island and getting around the big island, where to stay on the big island of hawaii, the perfect big island itinerary for 5 days, plan your big island vacation.

The Big Island is served by two airports, Kona and Hilo. They’re an hour apart if you don’t hit any traffic or challenging road conditions, though the beautiful drive across the saddle took us closer to two hours in the end.

If you can manage it without extra expense, I recommend booking an open jaw flight that arrives on one side of the island and departs from the other. That’s an especially good choice if you’re spending part of your time staying in Volcano Village, as I recommend below, because it would take more than two hours to drive to the Kona airport from there.

Once you get to the Big Island you’ll definitely want a rental car. There are public buses, but they’re sparse and can be inconveniently timed. Taxis, Ubers and Lyfts can get your around Kona town and Hilo town fairly easily but will get expensive (and possibly unavailable) if you choose to go much outside of those areas – and you’ll want to. Check here to compare rental car prices across all the major brands.

Read more: 10 things to know before you rent a car in Hawaii

A quick note to those of you scouting for Big Island 1 day itinerary suggestions: Do yourself a favor and fly into Hilo. For as pleasant as the Kona side is, it’s not especially unique compared to the other Hawaiian islands. With just 1 day on the Big Island, I’d fly into Hilo, grab a picnic lunch to-go at Island Naturals and then drive straight to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

To make the most out of your visit to the Big Island and get a taste of the very distinct areas of the island, I recommend splitting your time between its two sides.

If you’re interested in a vacation rental, check out some of my top picks for cheap places to stay on the Big Island – they’re often cheaper than hotels, plus you’ll save money on food, parking and even beach gear!

Where To Stay In Hilo

If you really want to see the rainbow over Rainbow Falls, spend your first night (or two) in Hilo. There are lots of wonderful small inns and b&b’s in addition to a few big chain hotels.

Inn At Kulaniapia

Orchid Tree B&B Hilo Bay Oceanfront Bed & Breakfast

Bay House Bed & Breakfast

Castle Hilo Hawaiian Hotel Doubletree Grand Naniloa Hotel

There are also some fantastic rental apartments in Hilo, and many of them are a real bargain. Check out these best vacation rentals in Hilo:

• Cozy Hilo studio for 2 guests
• Modern studio guesthouse for 4 guests (close to waterfalls)
• Unique 1 bedroom guesthouse (light breakfast included, walkable to restaurants)
• Beautiful (affordable) Hilo home for 10 guests

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Hilo, Hawaii

Where To Stay In Volcano Village

Since you’re only staying in Volcano for one or two nights and you’ll be very busy, I recommend choosing a place that offers breakfast; however, I’ve given some self-catering options in case that’s your preference.

Kilauea Lodge & Restaurant

Aloha Junction Bed & Breakfast

Laukapu Forest Lodge

At The Craters Edge Guest House

There are so many great vacation rentals in Volcano Village too! Here are a few top picks to consider, all just a few minutes from the entrance to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park:

• Rainforest house for 6 guests (we stayed here and it was wonderful!)
• Treehouse for 2 guests
• Budget-friendly cottage for 4 guests

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Volcano Village, Hawaii here

Where to Stay in Waikoloa Village/North Kohala Coast

You’ll be spending three nights in Waikoloa Village or elsewhere along the North Kohala coast. Depending on your travel style, you can choose between fancy resorts, moderate hotels or even Airbnb! There are a million vacation rentals in the area.

Hilton Waikoloa Village

Waikoloa Village vacation rentals Mauna Lani Villas

The Islands At Mauna Lani Mauna Lani Resort

Paniolo Greens Resort

Westin Hapuna Beach Resort

Mauna Kea Beach Hotel

Check out these wonderful places to stay in Waikoloa:

• Luxurious 3 bedroom at Mauna Lani Resort for 8 guests
• Budget-friendly villa for 5 guests
• Affordable condo for 5 guests

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Waikoloa Village, Hawaii here

Day 1 – Exploring Gardens And Waterfalls Hilo Side

Arrive at the Hilo airport and pick up your rental car to start your 5 day itinerary on Big Island. How much you can accomplish depends a lot on what time of day you arrive. I’ll assume you’re arriving fairly early in the day, but if you arrive later in the day you may need to shuffle some of these activities to a later day.

If you happen to arrive on a Wednesday or Saturday morning, take a swing by the Hilo Farmer’s Market (6am-4pm). It’s a great place to pick up fresh, local product and even locally-made crafts.

Drive 20 minutes up the coast to What’s Shakin to grab a delicious wrap or sandwich for lunch and, of course, a smoothie. Heck, grab two smoothies – they’re that good! They often have baked goods, which are delicious too.

Your first sightseeing stop is at Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden . It’s truly paradise on Earth, and our whole family loved it! The path down into the garden is fairly steep and can be slippery, but it’s paved. In total we spent about 2 hours exploring the huge range of plants, the cascading waterfalls and the secluded coastal views. As with all of the lush areas of Hawaii, bug spray never hurts.

When you’ve had your fill of the Botanical Garden (or they kick you out at 5pm), head back on the road. I won’t judge you for stopping back at What’s Shakin for another treat if they’re still open! But your destination now is Akaka Falls State Park, another 20 minutes outside of Hilo.

Want to plan the ultimate Big Island vacation? Click here for step-by-step Big Island travel planning help!

At Akaka Falls you’ll follow a paved path walking through lush vegetation until you get to the towering 400+ foot high waterfall. The walk itself isn’t long, but can get very crowded. The waterfall is thunderous, especially after a big rain!

If you still have time and energy, make a quick stop at Rainbow Falls as you head back south. It’s just a few seconds’ walk from the parking lot to the main viewing area, or you can head up the trail on the left side to catch a different view.

A word to the wise… you’ll only see the rainbows after which the falls are nicknamed if you visit early in the morning when the sun is still fairly low and behind your back as you look at the falls.

If that’s important to you, I recommend staying at this inn or elsewhere in Hilo to make a quick stop first thing the next morning. That’ll also give you an opportunity to swing by the Hilo Farmer’s Market if it will be Wednesday or Saturday (it opens at 6am).

If you’re ok seeing Rainbow Falls sans rainbows , after dinner proceed on to your accommodation in Volcano Village to give you a jump on tomorrow’s activities.

Grab dinner in Hilo town make sure to top it off with a healthy serving of shave ice! I recommend eating at Pineapples . While it’s not cheap, the food is very good and they often have live music.

Overnight in Hilo or Volcano

Day 2 – Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

You’ll spend a very full day today exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park – it’s the most unique aspect of your 5 day Big Island itinerary. We spent two days exploring Volcanoes National Park, but I’ll just give you the most impressive parts since I know you’re trying to cram in the best things to do with just a 5 day trip to Hawaii!

How much does Hawaii Volcanoes National Park cost? Admission is $30 per car and valid for a full week – so if you don’t see everything you want to, you can always head back first thing in the morning on day 3. The best way to save on admission to Volcanoes National Park and all of America’s other gems is by purchasing an America The Beautiful National Parks annual pass . We’ve had it three years in a row and always get our money’s worth.

Where can you see lava in Hawaii? When we last visited in June 2019, there was no active flow. At the very end of 2020, Kilauea began erupting again. You can find the current status here .

It’s really important to check conditions before you plan your time. At various points over the last three years there have been closures of Thurston Lava Tube, Hōlei Sea Arch and more.

The National Park is open 24 hours per day. In theory, if you’re a really early riser and/or not adjusted to the new time zone, you can get in there when the sun comes up (or before) to start exploring.

If you’re not quite that ambitious, try to start your day around 9am when the Kīlauea Visitor Center opens. Catch the movie to give you some background about the geology of the National Park and its history. At 9:30 every morning, a park ranger gives an introductory welcome talk out front to get your oriented to the park, talk about the latest round of eruptions, review current conditions in the park and make suggestions for your itinerary if you want.

While you’re there at the Visitor Center, pick up a Junior Ranger book! These are extremely informative for adults and kids alike, and they’re completely free. You can get a sneak peek of the book here (and see the badge requirements, if you think it’s something that might be a good fit for your family).

Once you finish at the Visitors Center, I recommend heading to Chain of Craters Road. One of our favorite things to do in Volcanoes National Park was the Cinder Cone Trail hike. It’s a total of 2.5 miles roundtrip, but can take longer than you’d expect because you’re walking over uneven lava fields for much of that time!

Pick up the extremely informative guide book at the beginning of the hike ($2 cash on the honor system) and follow the loop through the lava field (as best you can) to learn so much about different types of lava and how these bizarre structures were formed. This loop at the beginning is absolutely fascinating and very manageable for nearly all visitors (though it is not flat or paved).

The second portion of the hike goes along a hard-packed trail, with solidified lava in some places, and eventually to a massive lava field and a dormant cinder cone. If you’re short on time, energy, water or snacks I won’t snitch on you for turning back at the bottom of the cinder cone; in all honesty, it was the least interesting part of the hike (though the view from the top is pretty great). But the lava field sure is fun!

If the Hōlei Sea Arch was open, I’d send you down there next – it was my second favorite activity in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. But it isn’t, so I won’t.

For those who haven’t gotten their fill of walking over lava fields or with a keen interest in Hawaiian culture, you can take the flat 1.5 mile roundtrip Petroglyphs Trail. There are some interesting ones there, and if you don’t plan to visit the ones in Waikoloa Village it’s worth visiting these. The actual walk around the petroglyphs is on a boardwalk (to protect them from human hands!) but much of the walk is over lava fields.

Since the sea arch is closed, at this point I’d head back to the main area of the National Park near the visitors center to explore some of the calderas. In case you missed my note above, you won’t see any glow . All the same, it’s impressive to see just how large these volcanic pits are! Kīlauea Iki Overlook and Keanakāko’i Crater are both interesting stops, with Keanakāko’i Crater requiring a flat 0.8 mile walk once you park the car.

The good news is that the Thurston Lava Tube reopened in late February 2020 now that it’s been deemed safe. To access it, head to stop 4 on Crater Rim Drive. Parking is very limited, but if you go around 4pm (or later) you should be able to find a spot. Lights are on in the tube from 8am to 8pm, but make sure your cell phone battery is charged in case you need to use it for extra light.

If you’re very industrious, you might consider tackling the Kīlauea Iki Trail – it takes you down into the caldera and across it to see one of the steam vents in this former lava lake. I’ve done this hike, and the beginning descent and final ascent are tough . The whole hike takes several hours and you’ll feel hot no matter what time of year it is!

Whew, that was a busy day. Treat yourself to dinner at Thai Thai in Volcano and then get some rest!

Overnight in Volcano

Day 3 – Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, Hawaii And Snorkeling On The Kona Coast

Pack up your stuff and hit the road! Now it’s to to explore one of the most unique places on the Big Island of Hawaii – Punalu’u black sand beach.

This beach is on the southern end of the Big Island and there are a few things that make it very unique. First off, the black “sand” is actual very fine lava pieces. Second, it’s one of the best place to see turtles on the Big Island.

On the day we visited, there were several loggerhead turtles relaxing on the shore and several more swimming in the shallow waters. Keep your distance, as per Hawaiian law and common sense.

Though it’s not always the case, we were lucky to encounter calm waters that were pretty good for snorkeling. The water is more turbid than you’ll find in areas like Waikoloa, but you can probably spot some turtles when you’re down there.

I recommend bringing a camera for snorkeling – it’s fun to look back on since it’s such a unique experience! We use this budget action camera ( full review here ) but if you only want the underwater feature I recommend this one .

Even more important? Make sure you’re using reef-safe sunscreen to help protect the fragile coral reef ecosystem!

When you’ve had your fill of the beach and brushed the tiny bits of lava out from all the places head 15 minutes down the road to Punalu’u Bake Shop for lunch. They offer traditional Hawaiian plate lunches, sandwiches, salads, and of course their famous sweet breads of all flavors.

After lunch, hop in the car for a long drive, but with some interesting scenery. You’ll be driving along the western coast of the Big Island to the snorkeling hot spots just south of Kona.

There are a few choices for which snorkeling beach on the Big Island you should visit on this day. They each have their pros and cons, but the similarity is that the aquatic life is making its home among the cooled lava that tumbled (or exploded) into the sea. Those lava rocks can be slipper and/or jagged – during our most recent trip to the Big Island both of us adults got sliced by lava while snorkeling. So watch out!

The best places to snorkel on the Big Island on this day are:

• Kahalu’u Beach Park – Easiest access since you can just walk right in, but be mindful of the slippery lava rocks
• Two Step – Probably the best snorkeling on the island, but entry can be tough for those who aren’t sure on their feet (including little kids).
• Kealakekua Bay (Captain Cook) – Take a boat tour to get to the good snorkeling, this highly rated one departs at 2pm . You may even see spinner dolphins!

If you’re done with your snorkeling by 5pm, head to Da Poke Shack – my favorite place to eat on the Big Island! The food is incredibly fresh and the poke melts in your mouth.

Continue north to your accommodations along the Kohala Coast, either in the Waikoloa Village area or at one of the amazing beach resorts in the area. Make sure to find a great spot to watch the sunset!

One fun option is to visit the Lava Lava Beach Club adjacent to the salt-and-pepper beach of “A-Bay”. I’ll be honest that the dinner experience wasn’t amazing – it was a long wait followed by mediocre service at high prices. But the drinks are good, the location is awesome and they have a fun atmosphere for families. You can head to the adjacent lawn for mini golf, corn hole or even a rousing game of tag with other visiting families. And it’s a pretty awesome spot for sunset too.

Overnight on Kohala Coast

Day 4 – Visiting The Mauna Kea Observatory Complex And Beach Time

Since we want to show you all of the awesome unique things to do on the Big Island, we’ve gotta talk about visiting the Mauna Kea Observatory complex. I won’t say if you should or shouldn’t go, but I’ve been twice (in very different situations) and can tell you that there are many things to consider before you decided to go or how you’re going to do it.

Here are some important things to know about visiting the observatories at Mauna Kea:

• The observatories are not open to the public. Unless you’re on an “insiders’ tour” (lucky me!!!!!) you can only see the telescopes from the outside. The view from the top is still pretty cool.
• Anyone can go to the MK-VIS (Visitor Information Services) from 9am to 6pm daily. They have rangers, a movie, informational displays, daytime programs and a solar telescope. You can also head up there on your own in the evening for stargazing but it will be very cold .
• The VIS is at 9000 ft elevation. The summit, where the telescopes are located, is almost 14000 ft. Even if you plan to go to the summit, you need to stop at the VIS for a while to let your body adjust.
• It is not recommended that pregnant women or children visit the summit.
• The road to the summit is unpaved and steep. You need a 4WD and most rental car companies won’t allow you to take their cars up. The exception is Harper Car & Truck Rental .

Hope I didn’t scare you off! As I mentioned above, I’ve been twice. The first time I was with an official geology field trip that took us inside the Keck Observatory (which was truly amazing). The second time I was with a friend and we just… decided to drive to the top. We were young and invincible and didn’t heed the warnings to acclimate at the VIS. Needless to say, it was an unpleasant experience. I felt way too ill to enjoy myself!

Even without going all the way to the summit, it’s neat to head up to the VIS. You’ll understand why Mauna Kea is such a fantastic place for the observatories and about some of the cutting-edge science going on. And the views are incredible too! Just put “Mauna Kea Access Road” in your GPS and you’ll be there in a little over an hour from Waikoloa. You might want to stop at Island Gourmet Markets in the Queens Shops to pick up a picnic lunch on your way there.

If you want to go to the summit but don’t want to drive the road yourself, one of these group tours will take you there.

Once you return to sea level, it’s time to decompress and start exploring the beautiful beaches of the Kohala Coast. Remember that all of the beaches are public, it’s just a matter of finding parking that’s close enough for easy access! Here are a few to consider:

Best Beaches On The Kohala Coast

• Hapuna Beach – One of the best beaches in America, with gorgeous soft white sand, plenty of parking and public facilities… and tons of people. No shade on the beach, only at the picnic pavilions above.
• Beach 69 – Great snorkeling, plenty of shade, not as busy as Hapuna Beach. Sand isn’t as nice year-round.
• Mauna Kea Beach – Not generally crowded because it’s only hotel guests and those who park in the small public lot. If you aren’t staying there, tell the guard and the entrance kiosk that you want to go to the beach. Bring your own shade if you aren’t staying at the resort. Nice, easy snorkeling on the south end of the bay; even better but a little rougher as you go further out.
• Mauna Lani Beach – There are two areas of beach at the newly-reopened Mauna Lani: the one closest to the hotel and a tiny one further south by the condos. The tiny one is where I learned to snorkel 15 years ago! It’s extremely shallow and calm, and the minute you walk in it’s like you’re floating in a saltwater aquarium of tropical fish. It’s a small area so it can be very crowded with people staying in the condos, but it’s a great place for little kids and first-time snorkelers.

Head 5-10 minutes further north to Kohala Burger & Taco for dinner (these days they close at 5:30pm). They have excellent burgers, fish tacos and fries at reasonable prices.

After dinner, hop right next door to Anuenue Ice Cream & Shave Ice . Normally I’d say “you’re in Hawaii, get the shave ice!” But in this case, the ice cream gets my vote. Their Kona mud pie and caramel mac nut are amazing !!! Don’t just take my word for it, go taste for yourself.

Head over to the Mauna Kea Hotel after your early dinner to watch the sunset and wait for the next show… manta rays! There are two ways to see the manta rays that like to congregate in the bay in front of the Mauna Kea Hotel. If you’re done being in the water for the day, throw on a sweatshirt and walk over to “Manta Ray Point” where the hotel shines a floodlight in the water to attract these massive, graceful creatures.

If you’re feeling more adventurous and don’t mind being wet at night, you can schedule either snorkeling with the manta rays ! The boat guides will bring flood lights with them to attract the rays and make it easier for guests to see them. This particular operator takes you out in a traditional double-hull canoe and you can safely hold on to the lines between the hulls while you float and watch rays swim beneath you.

Day 5 – Culture, Beach Time & Snorkeling On The Big Island

For the final day of your Hawaii itinerary of 5 days, try to get at least a little bit of culture. If you’re staying in Waikoloa Village and don’t want to go far, you can take a great little walk through Waikoloa Petroglyph Preserve just behind… the gas station. Scenic location, eh? But it’s a neat little spot and there’s very good signage to provide information about what you’re seeing.

If you’re willing to venture a little further, there are three National Parks on this side of the island (plus Hawaii Volcanoes, which you’ve already visited). Consider checking out one of these:

Hawaii Big Island National Parks:

• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
• Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historic Park – Ancient “place of refuge” for Hawaiians who broke their community’s laws and fled. You’ll see archeological dig sites, impressive carved statues, a royal fish pond and a recreated temple. It’s very close to the Two Step and Captain Cook snorkeling spots.
• Kaloko-Honokohau National Historic Park – Preserves an ancient settlement, with the platforms of several buildings remaining. On weekends there are cultural programs in the morning. In between the Kona airport and Kona town.
• Pu’ukohala Heiau National Historic Park – Great opportunity to see an ancient Hawaiian temple built for royalty. In the winter, park rangers run a humpback whale watching program ever Friday from 9am to noon. Just north of Mauna Kea.

Grab some lunch then enjoy some r&r in the afternoon at the beach of your choice! Try a different snorkeling beach in the Kona area or another pristine white sand beach in the Kohala area. But you’ve adventured hard on this vacation, so it’s time to take a much-deserved break.

Head back to your hotel and clean up, and maybe put on something a little nice, because you’re closing out your Big Island vacation itinerary with a bang. The Legends of Hawaii luau at Hilton Waikoloa Village is truly a fantastic night. We’ve been to numerous luau and this was one of our favorites – as we left, our son declared it the best night of his life!

The food was really excellent, the entertainment was top-notch and (unlike so many hotel luaus) the organization was great. Our kids loved that they were all invited to sit on pillows right in front of the stage to have an amazing view – it’s a great way to keep the kids engaged through a long show. I’ve heard that it’s the best Big Island luau and I believe it!

Day 6 – Depart From Kona Airport

Whew! You made it through a busy 5 days on the Big Island. Hopefully you feel at least a little rested. Once you’ve packed your bags, it’s time to head down to Kona for your flight.

But give yourself a little extra time for one last taste of island life. If you need a great meal, stop at Umekes Fish Market Bar & Grill . They have a variety of poke and cooked fish options to fill every belly. From Umekes it’s a quick 15 minute drive to the Kona airport and you’ll be on your way – or double your fun by sneaking in one last shave ice at One Aloha Shave Ice Co . Shhhhhhh… we won’t tell .

I hope this guide has give you a flavor for the many amazing adventures that await you on the Big Island of Hawaii! You may not be able to squeeze everything in, but that’ll just be more reason to plan another visit. Aloha!

Need more planning help for your Big Island 5 day itinerary? This is the best Big Island guide book money can buy! We love it. Be sure to pick up a copy and bring it with you on your trip.

Don’t miss these articles about visiting Hawaii:

See all of our Hawaii travel planning resources in one place

Travel planning resources:

Compare rental car prices for Hawaii

Buy a top-rated travel insurance policy 5 simple money-saving tips for booking.com

General Hawaii resources:

How to visit Hawaii on a budget

Renting a car in Hawaii: 10 things you NEED to know What to pack for Hawaii

Is a cheap GoPro knock-off worth it?

Hawaii with kids:

What’s the best Hawaiian island for families? Is it worth visiting Hawaii with a baby?

Ultimate packing list for Hawaii with kids

Top 10 things to do with kids on Oahu

The best snorkel gear for kids of all ages

Oahu resources:

Best Oahu travel guide book Perfect 7 day Oahu itinerary Where to stay on Oahu

Family-friendly Oahu vacation rentals Cheap Places To Stay On Oahu

10 Fun Things to do on Oahu for $10 or less

Getting the most bang for your buck on your Go Oahu discount card Insider tips for visiting the Polynesian Cultural Center

The best beaches on Oahu (and why to visit them) Where to find the best shave ice on Oahu The best easy hikes on Oahu

North Shore Oahu complete visitors guide Kayaking to the Mokes with Twogood Kayaks Family-friendly kayaking with Holokai Adventures

Visiting Pearl Harbor

Maui resources:

Best Maui travel guide book

Family Activities in Maui We Absolutely Love

Perfect 3 day Maui itinerary

5 Things You NEED To Do Before You Visit Maui

Cheap Places To Stay On Maui

Big Island resources:

Best Big Island travel guide book Perfect 5 day Big Island itinerary

Cheap Places To Stay On the Big Island

Kauai resources:

Best Kauai travel guide book

Best Things to Do with Kids on Kauai

Perfect 3 day Kauai itinerary

Cheap Places To Stay On Kauai

Still planning? Pin it for later!

The post Hawaii (Big Island) Itinerary: 5 Days To See The Best Of The Island appeared first on The Family Voyage .

How to spend the ultimate weekend in Honolulu, Hawaii

Sep 8, 2024 • 5 min read

Plan your time in Honolulu with this itinerary for a long weekend in Hawaii's capital. Adrian Hopkins/Getty Images

Honolulu , Hawaii is one of the most popular vacation destinations around the world, with its internationally-inspired food scene, historic landmarks, beautiful hikes, and of course famed beaches. As a born-and-raised Oʻahu local, Honolulu has always been the place to go for the coolest events, the latest foodie happenings, and a bit of nightlife. It’s where tourists and locals mingle, finding common ground in the city's best experiences under sunny skies or over fusion plates.

• When to arrive: Ideally, you’ll arrive on Thursday – after the morning rush hour that happens between 7am and 9am – to make the most of a long weekend in Honolulu.
• How to get from the airport: Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) is only about 5 miles from the heart of Honolulu. You can easily take a 15-minute rideshare or rent a car of your own. There’s also the option to take the public bus, which will take about 35 minutes.
• Getting around town: Once you’re in Honolulu, you can get around via rideshare, public bus or rental car. While the latter can be very convenient for select beaches and hikes – or if you plan to leave Honolulu and explore the rest of the island – but parking may prove to be difficult and expensive.
• Where to stay: There are so many places to stay – from the Kahala Hotel & Resort near Diamond Head to the famed Hilton Hawaiian Village on Waikiki Beach . At the end of the day, budget will likely be the main determining factor when deciding where to stay in Honolulu.
• What to pack: Beach and hiking attire are both musts, along with a fancier (but not too fancy) outfit for dinner. Don’t forget to pack some reef-safe sunscreen too.

Morning: Start your time in Honolulu with an island-inspired breakfast at Moena Cafe , followed by the easy, yet beautiful Makapu‘u Lighthouse Trail . This 2.5-mile round-trip paved hike boasts stunning ocean views and the occasional winter whale spout. At the end, snap a few pictures of the little lighthouse the trail is named after, along with Manana Island (Rabbit Island) and Kaohikaipu Island State Seabird Sanctuary island.

How to spend the day: Grab your snorkel and lather on your reef-safe sunscreen before diving in at Hanauma Bay State Park . Keep your eyes peeled for turtles, octopi, and even the state fish known as the humuhumunukunukuapua‘a  (triggerfish). You’ll want to pack your own lunch to enjoy at the bay. Luckily, every local grocery store has grab-and-go bowls and bentos.

To go to Hanauma Bay, visitors have to make reservations online in advance . The limited time slots are quickly claimed, so you’ll want to refresh the Hanauma Bay reservation page right as tickets become available — two days prior at 7am HST.

Dinner: Splurge on a next-level omakase sushi dinner from Sushi Sho . Located in the Ritz-Carlton Residences Waikiki Beach, this restaurant uses the best local and Japanese ingredients to create a one-of-a-kind dining experience. While it is pricey, it is worth every penny. Be sure to book reservations in advance, as there are only 10 seats in the entire restaurant.

After dark: The Friday night Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort fireworks are a tradition of sorts. Lay out a towel on the beach – or go for a nighttime swim in the hotel pool, if you’re a guest – and watch the colorful display light up the night sky.

Morning: Spend Saturday morning at  Kakaʻako Farmers Market . With over 100 vendors selling everything from fresh tropical fruits to handmade crafts to ready-to-eat plates, it’s a great place to start your day.

How to spend the day: Take a walking tour of all of the Hawaiian historic sites in downtown Honolulu. Start at ‘Iolani Palace , the only palace in the US and former home of Hawaiian royalty. Then, loop around to Ali‘iolani Hale , Kawaiahaʻo Church , and the State Capitol Building , which are all within a block or so of each other. For lunch, head into nearby Chinatown for modern Vietnamese fare at The Pig & The Lady .

Dinner: Explore more Native Hawaiian culture with the Experience Nutridge luau . This Native Hawaiian-owned-and-operated luau takes place 15-minutes outside of Honolulu at Puʻu ʻUalakaʻa Wayside Park . With just 50 to 70 guests per evening, you’ll get to participate in every aspect of the luau without waiting in line. Savor traditional Hawaiian dishes, like kālua pig (shredded pork), laulau (meat-filled taro-leaf pockets), and haupia (coconut pudding). Take part in traditional Hawaiian games and crafts like ‘o‘o ihe (spear throwing) and lei making , and don't miss the ever-popular hula and fire dancing performances.

Morning: Start your final morning in Honolulu with a cup of Hawaiian coffee and a flaky pastry from Kona Coffee Purveyors . Spend a bit of time perusing the rest of the International Marketplace restaurants and shops, picking up high-quality souvenirs, like pineapple-shaped shortbread cookies from Honolulu Cookie Co. and handmade island-inspired earrings from Sun.daes .

How to spend the day: No trip to Honolulu and Waikiki would be complete without a visit to Waikiki Beach. Soak up the sun on the sand, go for a swim in the salty water, or take things up a notch with a surfing lesson from Moniz Family Surf to round out your time in the islands.

Before you know it, it’ll be time to head to the airport, but there’s no doubt that the sand and sea will call you back. During your next visit, take some time to explore the rest of the island – from the beach-filled North Shore to the creative town of Kailua .

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Hawaii cruise guide: Best itineraries, planning tips and things to do

Hawaii and cruising seem like a match made in heaven. You can experience all the beaches, water sports, lush scenic areas and Polynesian culture without having to settle for just one island — or deal with the hassle of flying between them.

In addition, you get a convenient home base to leave your stuff, enjoy evening entertainment without a drive and linger over dinner without worrying how much the bill will come to.

However, it's not all paradise in the Hawaii cruise world because itineraries are limited. Why? U.S. government regulations prohibit foreign-flagged ships from sailing between U.S. ports without visiting a foreign port.

Because most cruise ships are flagged in another country, they cannot offer interisland cruises. Only two lines currently offer those. The rest must sail long cruises at least one-way, if not round-trip, from the west coast of North America.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

If a Hawaii cruise sounds like the perfect getaway, you'll want to read up on which lines offer which types of itineraries, as well as which islands and ports you must visit.

Here, we've gathered all the information you need to know to choose the perfect Aloha State sailing for your travel style, budget and allotted vacation time.

Why cruise to Hawaii?

I probably don't need to convince anyone that Hawaii is an amazing vacation destination. It has everything — gorgeous beaches, fabulous snorkeling and diving spots, scenic hiking trails, fascinating local culture and history, delicious cuisine, renowned resorts and golf courses, and plentiful waterfalls and rainbows.

Why should you cruise instead of booking a hotel or resort stay on land? The main reason is to sample more islands.

Most travelers stick to one, possibly two islands, during a Hawaii vacation. If you want to sample the highlights of several islands, from Volcanoes National Park near Hilo, Hawaii, to Kauai's Waimea Canyon and Napali Coast, it's much simpler to do that from a cruise ship.

Additionally, lodging prices in Hawaii can be high due to its popularity as a vacation destination. Restaurants are also more expensive than on the mainland because many staples have to be shipped in from afar.

On a cruise, you're free to sample Hawaiian cuisine during your time in port but can take as many meals as you want on board, many of which are already covered in your cruise fare.

When do cruises go to Hawaii?

You can sail to Hawaii year-round, but the itinerary options vary based on the month you choose. Norwegian Cruise Line is the only major cruise line to offer year-round, weeklong cruises.

If you're looking for a longer itinerary, sailing round-trip from the west coast of North America, or a small-ship adventure cruise, you'll have the biggest selection of cruises between mid-September and April.

The beginning and end of the Alaska season in the spring and fall is when you'll find one-way repositioning cruises either between Hawaii and Vancouver, British Columbia, or Seattle, or from the Pacific Northwest all the way to the South Pacific, stopping in Hawaii along the way.

The summer offers the fewest Hawaii cruise options.

Related: Best time to cruise Hawaii

Best Hawaii itineraries

Cruises to Hawaii fall into three categories: weeklong interisland cruises, round-trip cruises sailing to/from the West Coast and one-way repositioning cruises.

The best cruise for you depends on how much vacation time you have, how many islands you want to visit, whether you're looking for overnight port stays and how you feel about multiple sea days in a row.

Interisland cruises

The best Hawaii itinerary, in my opinion, is Norwegian Cruise Line's seven-night round-trip Honolulu sailings on Pride of America. The U.S.-flagged ship is the only big ship able to sail interisland itineraries without calling on a foreign port.

The itinerary features two-day overnight visits to Maui and Kauai and stops in both Kona and Hilo on the Big Island, as well as scenic cruising along Kauai's famed Napali Coast. It's easy to book pre- or post-cruise stays in Honolulu to explore places like Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head Crater and Pearl Harbor, or you can book an NCL-organized cruisetour to combine the weeklong cruise with a three-night land tour.

For a completely different interisland cruise, UnCruise Adventures offers a more off-the-beaten-path, adventure-focused sailing on the 36-passenger Safari Explorer.

It also visits Maui, Hawaii, and the smaller islands of Lanai and Molokai. Expect lots of water sports and nature-based outings, and daily plans can change due to the weather or a whale sighting. These expedition cruises run from November to April.

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

Round-trip Hawaii cruises from the West Coast

Most of the major cruise lines offering seasonal Hawaii cruises — such as Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises and Holland America — offer 14- to 18-night round-trip itineraries from West Coast ports such as Los Angeles, Long Beach, San Diego and San Francisco in California; Seattle; and Vancouver. These sailings run from the fall into the spring. Some lines offer just a few round trips, while others offer months of Hawaii cruises.

The itineraries all follow a similar pattern: a four-day Pacific Ocean crossing, daily port stops in three or four Hawaii ports (occasionally with an overnight), another five days at sea and then a stop in Ensenada, Mexico, on the way home. If you're sailing from Vancouver, expect five days for the crossing and no visit to Mexico.

You might find some longer grand voyages sailing round-trip from North America to Hawaii, plus other South Pacific destinations. For example, Holland America offers some epic 24- to 51-night cruises round-trip from San Diego.

These Hawaii cruises are best for retirees, who have the time to enjoy leisurely ocean crossings on either end of the trip.

Repositioning cruises

The final type of Hawaii cruise is the one-way repositioning sailing, typically offered when ships are heading to or leaving Alaska. The cruise line schedules these sailings to swing by Hawaii on their way to the South Pacific or Australia, or perhaps before the ship begins Mexico cruises from southern California or transits the Panama Canal to the Atlantic.

The shorter options, such as the eight- to 13-night Hawaii cruises offered by Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises, sail between Vancouver and Honolulu, leaving you to book a one-way flight to or from Hawaii. Longer one-way sailings from upscale brands, such as Oceania Cruises, Seabourn and Silversea Cruises, will traverse the Pacific Ocean between Tahiti (or another far-flung island) and Vancouver or Seattle.

The shorter, one-way sailings are a good compromise for travelers who don't want to take a full two weeks or can't imagine 10 days at sea on one vacation but do want some relaxing time on the ship. They also allow pre- or post-cruise stays in Hawaii. The longer one-off journeys are more for folks wanting to explore a wide swath of the Pacific, with Hawaii being a small part of that deep dive.

Related: The best Hawaii cruises for every type of traveler

Best Hawaii cruise lines

It's no surprise that I find Norwegian Cruise Line to be one of the best Hawaii cruise lines because it offers a unique product that's a reasonable vacation length for most people and really allows its guests to experience many of Hawaii's highlights.

Princess Cruises is a great choice for two-week, round-trip Hawaii cruises, with multiple departure ports and sail dates on offer. Carnival, Holland America and Viking also offer this type of sailing. Holland America is a great choice for longer round-trip sailings that explore deep into the South Pacific but begin and end in North America.

Sister lines Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean are good bets for those hybrid one-way cruises from the West Coast to Hawaii.

Seabourn , Silversea and Oceania offer upscale accommodations, fine dining and multiple fare inclusions for travelers looking to journey in style across the Pacific Ocean, stopping in Hawaii along the way. Seabourn and Silversea feature smaller ships, more fare inclusions and higher prices than Oceania.

UnCruise Adventures is the line for travelers who want to get off the beaten path on a small ship with a flexible itinerary. These sailings are perfect for active folks who want to get up close to nature. You don't have to be a true cruiser to love UnCruise, but you do need a large budget, as intimate adventures don't come cheap.

Things to do in Hawaii

Whether you're looking for utter relaxation or an adrenaline rush, you'll find plenty of things to do in Hawaii. The islands have much to offer families, couples and friends of all ages.

Obviously, a top attraction is Hawaii's many beaches. You can plop down in the sand on beautifully manicured strands of white sand or find more rugged volcanic black-sand beaches. Look for beach parks with sheltered swimming areas for families, or find a secluded beach away from popular tourist areas. Some beaches can have strong currents or rough seas during certain times of the year, so always exercise caution when swimming.

Water sports are also a big draw, whether that's surfing Hawaii's waves or snorkeling with green turtles in Maui. Kayak out to sea or along Kauai's Wailua River, or try your hand at kite-surfing or stand-up paddleboarding. For a more chill afternoon out on the waves, consider a whale-watching cruise, sunset sail or scenic boat ride along the Napali Coast.

Nature lovers can find a variety of hikes within lush green forests or along the rocky landscape of the Waimea Canyon. Maui's Road to Hana is a must-do if you like twisty roads and cascading waterfalls. Watch the sun rise or set, bike down the extinct Haleakala volcano, or visit a live one at Volcanoes National Park near Hilo on the island of Hawaii.

Many travelers enjoy learning about Hawaiian culture and history. Attend a luau, where you can feast on Hawaiian cuisine and enjoy music, dancing and fire play. Some luaus take place on plantations, where you can discover more about local agriculture. Or, stop by historic attractions, such as Honolulu's Iolani Palace or the Big Island's Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park (the "city of refuge"), to learn about the ancient Polynesian culture or the Kingdom of Hawaii.

Related: Best Hawaii cruise shore excursions

Best Hawaii cruise ports

The islands of Hawaii only offer a few cruise ports for ships to visit. (UnCruise Adventures is the exception, calling in a few smaller places where the big ships can't go.) All of them are top-notch, so it's hard to say which one is the best overall. Certainly, some ports are better for different types of activities.

The following Hawaii ports are the ones commonly found on cruise itineraries.

Honolulu, Oahu

Honolulu is known for Pearl Harbor, where you can visit the USS Arizona Memorial Museum, the Battleship Missouri Memorial, a submarine museum and an aviation museum. Cruisers can catch some rays at Waikiki Beach or hike the Diamond Head Crater.

Learn about Hawaiian history at Mauna Ala, the Royal Mausoleum, and the Iolani Palace, or Hawaiian culture at a luau or the Polynesian Cultural Center. You can also take a tour to Oahu's North Shore. Oahu is the turn-around port for Pride of America, so travelers should consider a pre- or post-cruise stay to see the sights.

Nawiliwili, Kauai

The small but mighty Kauai is one of the best Hawaii ports for outdoor, nature-based adventure. Get your cameras out for the rocky landscapes of the Waimea Canyon and the breathtaking cliffs of the Napali Coast. If you like hiking or kayaking, you've come to the right island, but you can also take it easy on any number of nearby beaches.

Take a riverboat along the Wailua River to the Fern Grotto, or hop on a tour bus to see where many of your favorite movies were filmed. It's also a good spot for a luau if your ship stays in port late enough.

Hilo, Hawaii

The Big Island is the only island offering two major ports for cruise ships: Hilo on the east coast and Kona on the west. Hilo is the jumping-off point to visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you can hike through a lava tube or watch steam venting from the still-active volcano.

The area is also home to numerous waterfalls you can visit, such as Rainbow Falls and Akaka Falls, as well as black-sand beaches. Kayak or snorkel in Hilo Bay, or — for something different — visit the Volcano Winery to sample vintages made both with grapes and local fruits.

Related: How to choose the best Hawaiian island for you

Kona, Hawaii

The second cruise port on the island of Hawaii, Kona, is one of the best ports for visiting a coffee plantation and sampling local Hawaiian coffee. For travelers more interested in ancient Polynesian history, the Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, the site of an old city of refuge, is a fascinating place to visit. Otherwise, Kona offers plenty of beaches, snorkeling opportunities and boat and submarine tours.

Kahului, Maui

Maui also has two cruise ports, but they serve the same area and attractions. Currently, the tender port at Lahaina is closed, as the city rebuilds after the devastating 2023 fires.

Ships continue to call at Kahului, which is in an industrial area near the airport. Cruise ships can dock at that port, but you'll need to take a tour or other transportation to see the sights.

Must-sees on Maui include the extinct volcano Haleakala (for sunset or sunrise visits or bike rides down the steep slopes), the twisty Road to Hana with its waterfall views and many gorgeous white-sand beaches. Maui is the best Hawaii cruise port for whale watching in season or snorkeling in its clear waters. Visit the Maui Ocean Center to check out more sea life while staying dry.

When to book a Hawaii cruise

The earlier you book a Hawaii cruise, the better. That's because the cruise lines offer comparatively few Hawaii sailings as compared to Caribbean and Bahamas cruises, for example.

Norwegian Cruise Line bases only one ship in the region; other lines only sail to the islands seasonally. Booking early will not only guarantee you get the cabin type you want on the sail date you prefer but might also get you the lowest prices and promotional booking bonuses (i.e., free stuff). In addition, unless you live on the West Coast, a Hawaii cruise will require a long flight either to California or Honolulu, so you'll want plenty of time to find an airfare deal or available award seat.

Related: When is the best time to book a cruise?

What to bring on a Hawaii cruise

What to bring on a Hawaii cruise depends on which cruise you're taking. If you're on a weeklong sailing on casual NCL, you can skip the dressy clothes and prioritize casual outfits that work with whatever beachy or sporty excursions you've got planned in Hawaii. Sun hats, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen and water-friendly shoes are all must-pack items. Don't forget your camera (or waterproof case for your cellphone) and binoculars for whale watching.

Travelers on a longer Hawaii sailing on a line like Princess will want to bring nicer clothes for dinners on board, as well as plenty of activities for all those sea days. That could include books or an e-reader, a packable board game, a knitting project or a journal. UnCruise passengers should pack hiking boots, moisture-wicking athletic clothing, plenty of swimsuits and waterproof bags to protect their gear.

Related: Cruise packing list: The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Bottom line

A cruise can be an ideal way to explore multiple Hawaiian islands in one trip and save on costs such as dinner and car rentals.

However, unlike in other cruise regions, travelers are limited in the itineraries and times of the year they can sail. Norwegian Cruise Line's Pride of America is a great way to visit the islands in just a week, but fans of leisurely trips with lots of sea days should look at round-trip cruises from California and other West Coast departure ports.

Once you've decided how you want to cruise Hawaii, you can seek out the best cruise fares so you're ready to say "Aloha!" to an incredible vacation when the right deal pops up.

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Norwegian’s 2026 European Itineraries Unveiled: See the Mediterranean & Greek Isles

They’re here! More itineraries for 2026 that you won’t want to miss. From the sun-soaked shores of the Mediterranean and the enchanting Greek Isles to the breathtaking landscapes of Iceland, we’re offering a dazzling array of sailings with longer stays in port, cruise lengths to suit your fancy, and the chance to explore the world aboard one of the most celebrated fleets at sea.

But that’s not all—2026 brings an exciting selection of 33 overnight itineraries, letting you dive even deeper into some of the world's most captivating destinations. Picture waking up to the vibrant pulse of Istanbul, or  the maritime charm of Hamburg New ports of call—from Liervik, Norway, to Palamós, Spain , to scenic Portree in the UK—promise fresh experiences and hidden gems just waiting to be discovered.

And let's not forget the ever-popular open-jaw itineraries, now offering more flexibility than ever. Start your adventure in one vibrant port and wrap it up in another, giving you the chance to make the most of your time at sea (and on land.) Whether you're a seasoned cruiser or setting sail for the first time, these unique journeys are sure to add a splash of variety and a dash of spontaneity to your plans.

Ready to start planning? Explore all 2026 cruises .

Immerse Yourself in the Mediterranean

Between the sun-drenched coastlines, rich cultures, and vibrant cities, it’s nearly impossible to pick a favorite aspect of Mediterranean life. That’s why on Norwegian Dawn , every sailing in spring of 2026 takes you to Spain, Portugal, and Gibraltar. A port not to miss is Portimão, an enchanting coastal gem, where golden beaches, charming fishing villages, and dramatic cliffs await. Whether you stop for fresh ceviche along the waterfront or explore days gone by at the historic Fortaleza da Santa Catarina, this destination is truly unforgettable.

After a long day of discovery, enjoy world-class dining at venues like Los Lobos and La Cucina , get a game in on the sports courts, or wind down with a glass of wine at The Cellars Wine Bar. Tomorrow is another day.

RELATED CRUISES: 9-Day Greek Isles Cruise: Santorini, Athens & Mykonos 7-Day Mediterranean Cruise: Spain & Portugal

If olive trees and authentic moussaka are calling your name, Norwegian Pearl will take you to four of Greece's top-rated ports on an epic sail between Barcelona, Spain and Ravenna, Italy. Soak in the vibrant energy of Mykonos , wander through the ancient streets of Rhodes , marvel at Crete’s archaeological treasures, and get lost in the allure of Santorini , where whitewashed buildings meet dramatic cliffs over the shimmering Aegean Sea. With a relaxed atmosphere and elegant décor, Norwegian Pearl is the perfect balance for endless days of adventure with exciting activities, options for world-class dining, and cozy spots to unwind.

RELATED CRUISES: 7-Day Greek Isles Cruise: Santorini, Mykonos & Croatia 9-Day Mediterranean Cruise: Italy, France & Spain

Uncover the Magic of Iceland

If you’re looking for a longer vacation to make all your vacation dreams come true, Norwegian Star offers 10- and 11-day sailings between Southampton and Reykjavkik—the land of fire and ice. Step into the fairytale landscape of Isafjordur, one of the oldest trading posts in Iceland, with its history as a hub for trade and commerce dating back to the 16th century. In Reykjavik , the world's northernmost capital, guests can explore the Golden Circle's stunning landscapes or unwind in the mineral-rich waters of the Blue Lagoon.

After a day of exploring, indulge in Norwegian Star’s world-class amenities, from rejuvenating treatments at Mandara Spa to gourmet dining at La Cucina and Cagney’s Steakhouse, and captivating entertainment.

RELATED CRUISES: 11-Day Northern Europe Cruise: Iceland, Scotland & Norway 14-Day Iceland Cruise: Reykjavik, Edinburgh & Bergen

Treat Yourself to a Transatlantic Adventure

Seeking a unique and immersive journey across the Atlantic Ocean? Transatlantic cruises offer the opportunity to visit many diverse destinations with fewer days at sea. On Norwegian Epic and Norwegian Escape, you’ll stroll through charming European streets, explore historic ports, or simply soak in the peaceful ocean views, Norwegian’s transatlantic cruises offer the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Plus, with delicious dining, amazing entertainment, and plenty of on board comforts, every day feels new.

RELATED CRUISES: 7-Day Transatlantic Cruise: Sevilla & Ibiza 7-Day Transatlantic Cruise: Italy, France & Spain

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Let us know which 2026 itinerary is your favorite below! Don't forget to sign up for Norwegian's cruise deals to get the latest specials and discounts delivered to your inbox.