best first time trip to hawaii

First Timers Guide to Hawaii: Plan Your Trip Like A Pro

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You’ve made the excellent decision to take your first trip to Hawaii. Congratulations! Now it’s time to figure out how to plan your trip. While it can feel daunting because there are so many options to choose from and it’s a BIG vacation, we’ve got you covered. We cover all the need-to-know planning advice for your first trip. After reading this guide, you’ll feel much more confident in planning your dream vacation. 

FAQs About Planning Your First Trip to Hawaii

Have some quick questions about your trip? Get them answered here before we dive into the decisions you need to make.

What island is the best for first-time visitors?

All of the islands offer something a little different and special, so picking the right island for your first trip takes a little research to understand just what is unique to each island. 

Our favorite Hawaiian island to suggest to first-time visitors is Maui. Maui has a bit of something for everyone: from beautiful beaches, excellent snorkeling, a wide range of accommodations, and the best whale watching. We give you our 9 reasons why Maui is the best for first time visitors . 

But it’s not the right island for everyone. Here are some reasons why you might want to pick another island: 

• Oahu: Head to Oahu if you’re looking for more of a cosmopolitan feel. You’ll find nightlife, museums, and plenty of history.
• Kauai: Visit Kauai if you’re looking for a quieter trip, a lush landscape (with a bit more rain), and amazing hiking.
• Big Island: Plan a trip to the Big Island if you’re a volcano enthusiast (Volcanoes National Park is amazing), you want a laid back vibe, or you want to snorkel or dive with manta rays .

Want to see a little more about what makes each island special for first time visitors? We’ve created a video to help you out: 

How much will a trip to Hawaii cost?

Going to Hawaii is not a cheap vacation. While there are ways you can save, food, accommodations, rental cars, and activities are all very expensive. In fact, all four of the main Hawaiian islands rank in the top 10 for most expensive average hotel room cost in the world . Maui hotel rooms are the second most expensive in the world, after the Maldives.

So, a trip is going to be expensive. 

To help you get started calculating your own vacation estimate, we went through the work of calculating the cost of a trip for a family of four. The total for 10 days? $12,000. You can check out the full Hawaii vacation cost calculation as well as places you can save and splurge . 

How many days should you spend on your first trip to Hawaii?

We recommend not rushing any trip to Hawaii, so the more time you can spend, the better! Despite it seeming like an easy domestic trip, it still takes nearly six hours to fly there from the west coast. And you’ll likely have a little jet lag to deal with, as Hawaii is two or three hours behind pacific time (they don’t have daylight savings time so in the winter it’s a 2 hour time difference and in the summer it’s a 3 hour time difference). 

If you plan on visiting one island, we recommend a trip of at least 7 days. This will give you time to get settled, explore, and do some amazing activities, and have downtime to relax. If you plan on visiting two islands, plan for at least 10 days. 

We recommend this itinerary combo as part of our first-time to Hawaii itinerary . 

If you know what island you want to visit, you can dive into more details about exactly how many days you should spend: 

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

A good rule of thumb is if you start speaking Hawaiian Pidgin , you have stayed too long.

Do you need to rent a car in Hawaii?

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

If you want to get out and explore Oahu without renting a car, you can join a group circle island tour or book your own private island tour . 

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

On the other islands, it’s a bit trickier to go without a car. To see and explore, you’ll probably want to book one. Public transportation isn’t easy and getting a cab or uber can add up and be inconvenient. We love using Discount Hawaii Car Rental to help us get the best price for a rental car on each island.

Is it easy to island hop?

If you’re hoping to visit one or more Hawaiian island on your trip, you’re in luck! Island hopping is easy. While there are no ferries between islands (aside from a ferry between Maui and Lanai), you can fly between the islands using Hawaiian Airlines, Southwest Airlines, or Mokulele Airlines. 

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

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

What is the best time of year to go to Hawaii?

There is truly no bad time to visit Hawaii. With temperatures that are warm year-round, you’ll be in tank tops and shorts 12 months out of the year. But while there is no bad time to visit, we think Hawaii is best experienced during the shoulder seasons: in April/May and September/October. That’s when we find the optimal mix of good costs, good weather, and the smallest crowds. 

Let’s dive into that a bit more or see our Best Time to Visit Hawaii article for details.

Weather: 

While we did say that the temperatures are warm year-round, Hawaii does still get rain. And while you are heading to a beach destination, you probably want to minimize your chances of rain. As you can see from the chart below, Hawaii experiences peak rain from November through March. Though to be fair, rain varies on different sides of each island — we are showing average rainfall for one popular visitor destination on each island.

Visiting when there are fewer crowds can make for a more enjoyable vacation. Boat tours aren’t sold out days or weeks in advance and beach parking is much easier to come by.  Trying to find a time when fewer people visit (or the off season) isn’t difficult to do. The Hawaii Tourism Authority does a wonderful job of tracking visitor arrivals to Hawaii . 

From their data, it’s clear that the peak times for crowds are November – January, March,  and June – August. So if you want to visit while there are fewer people on the islands, plan a trip in February, April , May, September, or October. 

Cost: 

Traveling during the shoulder period could mean the difference between getting a hotel room for $800 or getting that same room for $400. Costs fluctuate widely depending on when you’re going. If you want your travel dollars to stretch as far as possible, avoid the summer, spring break period, and the holiday period (Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year). 

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

Do you need a travel agent to help you plan your first trip to Hawaii?

We sometimes love enlisting the help of a travel agent for our adventures. But to be honest, we haven’t found great travel agents for Hawaii vacations. Most travel agents don’t specialize in Hawaii (but we do). They have some basic recommendations, but can’t speak in depth about different accommodation options, activity operators, and restaurants. So we don’t recommend using a travel agent and you definitely don’t need one to book your dream vacation. 

If you’re not sure where to start, check out our island guides. They walk you through all the need to know information for each island:

Oahu Guide Maui Guide Big Island Guide Kauai Guide

And if you want even more in-depth information on how to plan your days to sightsee, check out our itineraries :

“I purchased the Kauai itinerary and it is awesome! I had no idea how much work and information you guys really put into it and I am so excited for our trip now!!” – Kayla R.

Are there any special entry requirements to enter Hawaii?

There are no special requirements to enter Hawaii. If you are coming from outside of the US, you will need to show your passport to enter the USA and Hawaii. If you are traveling from within the US (the mainland) you won’t need to show a passport to enter Hawaii.

Currently, there are no COVID restrictions or entry requirements for Hawaii . 

How far in advance should you plan your trip to Hawaii?

If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii, the earlier you plan, the better. While there always might be last-minute deals that pop up, they are few and far between. Booking in advance means you can shop around for the best hotel or vacation rental price. 

We suggest planning six months in advance for your trip. You can usually secure great accommodations at a great price and a good rental car price. And a tip: if you book with Discount Hawaii Car Rental , you can always cancel your reservation and rebook if prices drop. 

When you’re planning activities and restaurant reservations, try to make them a couple of months in advance, so you can book exactly what you want. Be sure to check out our favorite tours and activities to help you narrow down your search .

Is a trip to Hawaii worth it? 

Whether a trip is worth it is certainly up to personal preference, but we think a trip to Hawaii is worth it! With year-round good weather and amazing sights, this isn’t an ordinary trip. Whether you’re coming to experience the year-round humpback whale migration, hike to the top of a volcano, snorkel with Manta Rays, or swim in a waterfall, there is truly so much to do here. 

And learning about Hawaiian culture and history makes this so much more than a beautiful beach vacation. 

First Time to Hawaii Planning Timeline

Now that you’ve gotten some first time to Hawaii FAQs answered, it’s time to dive into booking your trip. Here are the steps to walk through as you’re making your decision:

1. Decide when you’ll go

We love the shoulder season of April/May and September/October for fewer clouds, crows, and cheaper costs. But remember that really anytime is great. So find a time when you can book a long enough chunk of time for your trip and move onto step 2!

2. Decide how long to go for

We meet travelers all the time who are on vacation and frantically trying to figure out how to extend their trip. So if you can swing a few extra days, do it! Plan to spend at least 7 days if you’re visiting one island or at least 10 days if you want to visit two islands. There is so much to see and it’s a long trip out.

3. Choose your island(s)

Now onto the biggest hurdle for most first time visitors: picking the right island for you. This is a big decision and while all of the islands offer something special you need to decide what type of vacation you really want to have. Going to Oahu is going to end up being a very different vacation than a trip to Kauai. 

If you’re struggling to choose an island, see our tips earlier on in the article. 

4. Book your flights

Start your search for flights. All of the major airlines fly to Hawaii, so you should have plenty of options to choose from. The airports (and airport codes) on each island are:

• Oahu: Honolulu Airport (HNL)
• Maui: Kahului Airport (OGG) and Kapalua Airport (JHM), used for inter-island trips
• Island of Hawai’i (Big Island: Hilo International Airport (ITO) and Kona International Airport (KOA)
• Kauai: Lihue Airport (LIH)

If you’re visiting more than one island, check out our inter-island travel article for tips on how to island hop seamlessly.

Consider being greeted upon arrival with a traditional Hawaii lei greeting. It is a fun way to start your Hawaii vacation.

5. Pick a place to stay

Once you’ve picked an island, there are so many options for accommodations. The first decision to make: do you want a vacation rental or a hotel? There are pros and cons to both options. If you’re planning to eat in a lot, a vacation rental can save you money with a kitchen. But you’re likely going to miss out on a great resort pool. 

Check out all of our pros and cons with our Airbnb vs Hotel article . 

6. Figure out whether you want to rent a car

For most vacations, you will probably want to rent a car. If you’re hoping to see a lot of the island that you visit, a car is necessary. Public transportation options aren’t usually very convenient and getting a cab or uber can add up to be quite expensive. 

The exception to this is Oahu. If you’re staying in Waikiki, there are plenty of things to keep you busy for days in a row so renting a car for your entire trip isn’t necessary. And when you do want to head out and explore, there are car rental options available right from Waikiki. 

When you’re ready to book a car, we recommend Discount Hawaii Car Rental . We’ve saved thousands of dollars using them for our car rentals. They work with major carriers and don’t require pre-payment, so it’s a flexible and ideal way to save on your car rental. 

7. Choose some of your can’t-miss activities

There is truly so much to do on each island, and even if you were staying for a month, you wouldn’t be able to do it all. So making a list is important. 

Are you excited to hike a volcano? Snorkel from a boat? Zipline above a canopy of trees? Get an up-close view of humpback whales?

Our Tours & Activities section will help you find our favorite activities on each island. 

To help you get started our cheat sheets will give you a few of the ca n’t-miss experiences on each island. 

Additional Hawaii resources:

• 40 Things to Do on Oahu
• 5 Can’t-Miss Big Island Activities
• 68 Things to Do on Maui with Kids
• 21 Things to Do on Lanai

8. Make some fun dinner reservations

If you’re coming during the peak season, getting a few dinner reservations on the books is important. And even if you’re not, if there’s any place you feel like you need to eat, getting your reservation made early ensures you won’t miss out. Our cheat sheets offer some dining recommendations and our itinerary has a Quick Hits section with all of our favorite restaurants . 

9. Get packing

You don’t need to bring much with you on your beach vacation. But make sure you have the essentials by using our packing list. Yes, you’ll want to pack reef-safe sunscreen and a jacket!

Check out our full packing list here . 

And our favorite item to pack? Our itineraries ! They make your trip planning and experience so much easier. With excursion days to take you around the island and a list of our favorite restaurants and beaches, this is one thing you’ll definitely want with you. 

“I can’t tell you how much we have appreciated your effort with the guidebook.  We saw things this past week we would never have known to look for.  These hidden gems were amazing from the black sand beach all the way up to Pololu lookout and all the small shops along the way.  We leave tomorrow and I wanted to say how much we used and enjoyed your book.  Thank you so much.” – Chris P.

First-Time Visitors Tips While in Hawaii

Once you’ve made it to Hawaii (hooray!) we have some tips to help make your time in the islands even more memorable. 

Understand the geography

While getting to know the geography of the islands might seem a little ridiculous for your vacation, it’s important because it will affect the weather you experience and what you do while on vacation. 

The main thing to know is that each island has a windward and a leeward side. The windward side of each island faces the tradewinds. You’ll get more rain and wind, but you’ll also get lush landscapes (thanks to all of that rain!). On Maui, Hana is a famous spot on the windward side. The landscape is lush and the waterfalls are beautiful. But it also rains a lot and the ocean currents are very strong. 

The leeward side of each island is more protected from the wind and rain and you will have drier, sunnier weather. Most of the famously beautiful beaches you plan on visiting are located on the leeward side of the island.

For example, on Maui, the leeward side of the island includes some great beaches, like Wailea Beach and Ka’anapali Beach. 

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

Get out and explore

The beaches in Hawaii are incredible. But there’s a lot more to explore on each of the islands. Some things you might want to add to your list include:

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

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

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

Try the local food

One of the treats about visiting a new place is the opportunity to try new, local foods that you might not eat back home. There are a few things you should consider trying while you’re here:

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

Snorkel (safely!)

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

Understand safety risks

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

There are a couple ways to check the ocean conditions daily. You can check Hawaii Beach Safety for daily ocean conditions for select beaches on all four main islands. 

If you’re headed to Maui, we love the daily Snorkel Reports from the Snorkel Store. It helps us to see what areas have the best snorkeling conditions for the day and also gives us warnings about large swells that are coming in and affecting safety and visibility. 

Use good gear

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

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

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

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

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

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

Go to the best places

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

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

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

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

Take a snorkeling tour

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

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

• Molokini Sunrise Snorkel with Kai Kanani : beat the crowds to Molokini with this special sunrise snorkeling tour leaving directly from the beach in Makena/Wailea.
• Na Pali Coast Snorkeling with Holo Holo Charters : Cruise up the coast of Kaua’i and off the island of Niihau for a full day of snorkeling.
• Power Raft snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay with Captain Zodiac : Head to Kealakekua Bay and the Captain Cook monument for the best snorkeling on the island.

Only use reef-safe sunscreen

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

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

Understand the rules protecting sea life

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

Learn about the culture

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

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

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

Let us Help you Visit Hawaii for the First Time

We’ve helped thousands of people plan and experience their best vacation to Hawaii. Make your trip planning that much easier and let us help you have the trip you’ve been dreaming about. 

“My husband and I recently took our very first trip to Hawaii (and first trip without our 3 young children) to celebrate our 10 year anniversary. We stayed in Maui and used your Maui Classic Itinerary. It made planning our trip so easy! We never had to worry about driving directions, finding bathrooms or parking lots, where we were going to eat a meal, the best spots to spend our day, or even details like when to leave to make the Haleakala sunrise and what trails to hit afterwards. Every single day of our trip was just about perfect, and your guide was a big determining factor for that. We even used it up until the last hour of our trip to find a good beach and great food in Paia Town before we had to be at the airport! So we just wanted to say THANK YOU for helping make this a very special trip that we will remember for the rest of our lives!” – Adam and Alyssa

Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary

Maui wayfinder itinerary, kauai wayfinder itinerary.

Cruising Hawaii Guide

Big island wayfinder itinerary.

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

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Table of Contents

Which Hawaiian island to visit? Check your must-haves

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

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

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

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

Here's our guide to Hawaii travel for beginners.

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

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

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

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

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

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

» Learn more: Should I island hop in Hawaii?

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

Big Island highlights

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

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

Offers night snorkeling with manta rays.

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

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

Big Island drawbacks

It requires a lot of driving to see it all.

Resorts on the beach can be pricey.

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

Big Island tips

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

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

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

Where to earn or redeem points on the Big Island

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

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

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

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

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

Maui highlights

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

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

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

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

Maui drawbacks

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

Activities are fewer and farther between.

Beach resorts can be pricey, especially in Wailea.

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

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

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

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

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

Where to earn or redeem points on Maui

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

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

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

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

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

Kauai highlights

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

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

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

Kauai drawbacks

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

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

A limited number of restaurants in resort areas.

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

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

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

Where to earn or redeem points on Kauai

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

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

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

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

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

Oahu highlights

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Oahu drawbacks

Waikiki is very crowded and dense.

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

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

Where to earn and redeem points on Oahu

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to maximize your rewards

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

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

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

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

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

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

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

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

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

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

on Capital One's website

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

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

How to choose the best Hawaiian island for your trip

Mar 7, 2024 • 9 min read

Choose between Hawaii's six main islands with this guide © Fly View Productions / Getty Images

Hawaii has six main visitable islands in its remote archipelago, and it can be hard to choose which one is right for you, especially if you're a first-time visitor.

Each island boasts its own atmosphere and attractions. Local food and sunny beaches are practically guaranteed on all of them, but that’s just the beginning. While some are lush and filled with top hiking routes , others are buzzing with clustered landmarks and nightlife.

Since there’s so much to see on each individual island – and inter-island transport is limited – many visitors often find themselves trying to narrow down their options. Of course, there’s no way to go wrong in Hawaii , but there may be ways to go a little more right,given each traveler’s particular interests and pace of travel. Here's our guide to help first-time visitors choose the right island for them.

Best for city life, surf competitions, and historic landmarks

As the most popular Hawaiian Island – to visit and to live – O'ahu is bustling! In Honolulu and Waikiki , you’ll find skyscrapers and luxury hotels, traffic and nightlife, all of the hallmarks of a big city. But beyond that, O'ahu has verdant hikes in the East, sunny beaches in the West, and world-renowned surf competitions on the North Shore.

Top places to visit on O'ahu

Pearl Harbor National Memorial : On December 7, 1941, the Japanese Navy Air Service bombed Pearl Harbor, prompting the US’ involvement in WWII. Visit this landmark to see both the USS Arizona Memorial and the Battleship Missouri Memorial.

ʻIolani Palace : Once the home of Hawaiian royalty, ʻIolani Palace later became the location for the overthrow of the Kingdom of Hawaii and the imprisonment of Hawaiian Queen Liliʻuokalani.

Hanauma Bay State Park : This protected bay offers some of the best and safest snorkeling on the island. Keep an eye out for honu (turtles), dolphins, heʻe (octopus), and the famed state fish: the humuhumunukunukuapuaa‘a (reef triggerfish).

Top things to do on O'ahu

Watch a North Shore Surf Competition: O'ahu’s North Shore hosts some of the most famous surf competitions in the world. Watch talented surfers do what they do best during winter events like the  Vans Pipe Masters and the Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational .

Tackle the Lanikai Pillbox hike: Make the short, but steep hike to the first Lanikai Pillbox (abandoned military overlook point) for jaw-dropping views of Kailua, the Mokulua Islands, and the Pacific Ocean.

Savor authentic Hawaiian Food: From laulau and kalua pig to poi and ho‘io salad, traditional Hawaiian food is one of the best ways to experience Hawaiian culture. Oahu’s Waiahole Poi Factory and Helena’s Hawaiian Food offer some of the most authentic Hawaiian food in the islands.

Best for a romantic atmosphere and scenic drives

When people picture the beachy side of Hawaii (as opposed to the volcano side), they often dream up beach bliss and resort luxury. Of all the islands, Maui fits this bill the best. This vibe is particularly alluring to couples for honeymoon, babymoon, or anniversary trips, but families, friend groups, and solo travelers will feel right at home as well.

Top places to visit on Maui

ʻIao Valley State Monument : Both a historic and natural landmark, ʻIao Valley (and the aptly named ʻIao Needle rock formation) is a must-visit stop in West Maui.

Waiʻanapanapa State Park : Located on the Road to Hana , this state park has historic heiau (ancient Hawaiian temples), sea arches, and the island’s only black sand beach. Advanced reservations required.

Aliʻi Kula Lavender : Stroll through rows of blooming lavender plants at the base of Haleakala, before popping into the gift shop to snag locally made lavender creations, like lavender tea and scones.

Top things to do on Maui

Catch the Haleakala sunrise: As the tallest peak on Maui at 10,023ft tall, Haleakala – which means “the house of the rising sun” – offers unobstructed views of the pastel-painted sunrise sky each morning.

Drive the Road to Hana: As the epitome of the phrase, “it’s about the journey, not the destination,” the Road to Hana is filled with cascading waterfalls , oceanfront state parks , and blood-pumping hikes.

Snorkel at Molokini: Dive underwater for a peek at Maui’s marine life. Many tour companies, including Four Winds and Maui Snorkeling , have incredible snorkeling tours to Molokini Crater, a thriving islet 2.5 miles off the Maui coast.

Keep planning your trip to Maui with one of these road trips 

Best for volcanic activity and diverse natural landscapes

The Big Island of Hawai'i , officially known as Hawaii and colloquially known as the Big Island, certainly lives up to its informal name. Bigger than all of the other Hawaiian Islands combined, the Big Island manages to pack a lot of natural diversity into its 4000 sq miles — from golden sand beaches and flourishing rainforests to ash-based deserts and snow-capped mountains.

Top places to visit on the Big Island

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park : With two active volcanoes, Mauna Loa and Kilauea , this national park is filled with unique natural features like sulfur-smelling steam vents, lengthy lava tubes, and the occasional flowing lava stream.

Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach : Enjoy the long-lasting results of the Big Island’s volcanic activity at this black sand beach. With sand made from pulverized lava rock and lounging honu (turtles), Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach is a popular attraction.

ʻAkaka Falls State Park : At 442ft tall and surrounded by thriving plant life, ʻAkaka Falls is one of the most eye-catching natural features on the Big Island.

Top things to do on the Big Island

Summit Mauna Kea: As the tallest mountain in the world (from the seafloor to the peak), Mauna Kea is a special spot. Head to the summit for stargazing at night or snow (in Hawaii!) in the winter.

Learn Hawaiian History at Kaloko-Honokohau National Park : Learn all about ancient Hawaiians’ way of life through the centuries-old ruins of heiau (temples), kiʻi pohaku (petroglyphs), and fishponds.

Snorkel with manta rays: Hundreds of manta rays have made their home on the Kona Coast. Get an up-close look at these friendly creatures with an after-dark snorkel with Manta Ray Dives of Hawaii or Kona Snorkel Trips .

Kaua'i

Best for hiking and waterfalls

Nicknamed The Garden Isle, Kaua'i certainly lives up to the title. There’s lush greenery around every mountain nook and cranny! While this sleepy island does get more rain than any other, the flora-filled hikes, parks, and botanical gardens are more than worth it.

Top places to visit on Kaua'i

Na Pali Coast : This beautiful old mountain range boasts deep, lush ridges and cascading waterfalls. It’s only accessible on foot (via the 22-mile round-trip Kalalau Trail), by boat or by air.

Waimea Canyon : Nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” this stratified natural landmark is filled with challenging hikes and breathtaking viewpoints.

Hanalei Bay : This North Shore bay is ideal for a beach day, thanks to its calm waters, lengthy shoreline, and beautiful sunset views.

Top things to do on Kaua'i

Bike the Ke Ala Hele Makalae Path: This in-progress bike path runs along Kaua'i’s East Side, passing beautiful beaches, adorable eateries, and the occasional historical landmark.

Go chasing waterfalls: As the rainiest Hawaiian Island, Kaua'i boasts dozens of waterfalls. Drive up to Wailua Falls and Opaekaʻa Falls or hike to Waipoʻo Fall and Hanakapiʻai Falls.

Stroll through Hanapepe: Known as Hawaii’s “biggest little town,” historic Hanapepe is bursting with adorable eateries, shops, landmarks, and festivals. Don’t miss out on the Talk Story Bookstore , the Taro Ko Chip Company and the Hanapepe Swinging Bridge.

Continue planning your trip to Kauai with these itineraries

Lana'i

Best for luxurious relaxation

At 140 sq miles, Lana'i is the smallest of the six main Hawaiian Islands. Even though it has no roads and a population of just 3000, it’s still home to two luxurious Four Seasons Resorts, making it ideal for off-the-grid, laid-back luxury.

Top places to visit on Lana'i

Keahiakawelo (Garden of the Gods): Once upon a time, the islands’ introduced goats, sheep, and deer ate all of the vegetation in this area. Now, this otherworldly, foggy, boulder-dotted landscape is all that remains. It's only accessible by 4WD.

Kaiolohia (Shipwreck Beach): Admire two big ol’, rusty WWII shipwrecks from the shore – but don’t get in the violent water! It's also only accessible by 4WD.

Lana'i City: Nestled in the center of the island, the “downtown” Lana'i City is home to adorable restaurants, shops, and art galleries.

Top things to do on Lana'i

Snorkel in Hulopoe Bay: Strap on your snorkel gear and dive into this calm South Shore bay filled with tropical fish and the occasional spinner dolphin.

Test your swing at Manele Golf Course: Part of the Four Seasons Resort Lanai , this challenging golf course is best known for its sweeping cliff and ocean views.

Hike the Munro Trail: This 12-mile path offers breathtaking views of Lana'i, the Pacific Ocean, and beyond. It's only accessible by 4WD.

Moloka'i

Best for an undisturbed Hawaii experience

The little island of Moloka'i offers an untouched taste of old Hawaii. Of the six main islands, Moloka'i has the largest percentage of Native Hawaiians, at about 62% of residents. While larger than Lana'i, Moloka'i doesn’t really cater to visitors. There are a couple of small local hotels, but beyond that, there aren’t many guided tours, souvenir stores or grand restaurants. Plan to be on your own on Moloka'i for the most part.

Top places to visit on Moloka'i

Papohaku Beach : Given that this West Side beach is 2 miles long, every beachgoer is practically guaranteed to have a slice of sunny shoreline all to themselves.

Moaʻula Falls: Located in Halawa Valley, this 250ft waterfall is the most easily accessible cascade on Moloka'i. Do note that the trail goes through private property, so you’ll have to take a guided tour (or get permission from the owners) to access it.

Kalaupapa National Historical Park: Once home to a remote leper colony, this remote part of Moloka'i (now only accessible by air) now serves as a historic park that tells the story of this lore-rich region.

See more of Hawaii's national parks, memorials and historic sites

Top things to do on Moloka'i

Explore Kamakou Preserve: Home to the 2-mile Pepeʻopae Bog Trail, this preserve – complete with thriving native plant life and gorgeous viewpoints – is an all-day adventure. It's only accessible by 4WD.

Take a fishing charter: Since Moloka'i is mostly undisturbed, its waters are teeming with fish. Book a charter with Hallelujah Hou Fishing and reel in a few ʻoʻio (bonefish) and ʻomilu (bluefin trevally).

Take a farm tour: Much of Moloka'i is agricultural land, and a few local farms are open for tours. Learn more about Moloka'i’s agricultural practices at Molokai Plumerias , Molokai Flowers  and Purdy’s Natural Macadamia Nuts .

Ready to plan your trip?

Decide on the perfect week for you with the   best time to visit

Start crafting your budget with these tips  

Save this transportation guide for   how to get around between the islands

This article was first published May 2016 and updated March 2024

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First time visitors’ guide to Hawaii

So, you’ve decided to book a Hawaii vacation. That’s exciting! Now you’re wondering where to start your travel planning. Well, you’ve found the right spot for tried-and-true advice to begin planning your perfect Hawaii vacation. By using this first time visitors’ guide, you’ll take the stress out of planning your first Hawaii vacation.

Before we dive into the good stuff, it’s a good idea to briefly let you know a little about us. At Go Visit Hawaii, we completely understand all the challenges of planning a Hawaii vacation, because we are travelers to Hawaii just like you. We fell in love with Hawaii in 2003 and have visited Hawaii dozens of times since then. Through our many trips we’ve become expert Hawaii travelers. We’ve even been referenced by USA Today and other prominent media outlets for our Hawaii expertise several times.

We’re not travel agents and we’re not trying to sneakily sell you anything. We write the very same unbiased advice at Go Visit Hawaii that we would give to our closest friends and family!

We’ve organized this guide based on the stages of planning — from “Help! I have no idea where to start,” to “I’m ready to pack my bags for Hawaii!”

Advice for choosing when, where and how much money to budget:

The first articles you should read are:

– How to pick the best Hawaiian Island(s) for your vacation . This article provides lots of resources to help you find the Hawaiian island(s) that best fits what you’re looking for in a Hawaii vacation. (Pssst: If you have a difficult time choosing, just go to Maui. Of all the Hawaiian Islands, Maui seems to always win more awards from the travel magazines and surveys. It’s a crowd pleaser.)

– Determine how many islands you will visit – When time is limited, you need to make the most of your stay. In our “how many islands” article we provide advice on how many islands you should consider visiting based on your available vacation days.

– Best time to visit Hawaii – Anytime is a good time to visit Hawaii, but some months are better than others for sunny weather, cheaper prices and low crowds. In this article, you’ll be able to quickly pick the ideal time to go to Hawaii that fits into your vacation schedule.

– How much money do you need to budget for a Hawaii vacation?  How much will a trip to Hawaii cost you? This article will help you quickly calculate your own budget for traveling to Hawaii.

Advice for choosing the best flights to and around Hawaii:

We’ve got three great articles to help you get to and around Hawaii with ease.

– How to choose the best airport for your Hawaii destination  – Most of Hawaii’s islands have more than one airport. This guide gives you advice on how to choose the best airport for your flights based on your island destination.

– Strategies for finding the lowest airfare to Hawaii — This article provides advice on how to find the best Hawaii flight cost and options for you.

– Guide to Hawaii inter-island travel — This article helps you to easily navigate how to island hop in Hawaii.

Advice for choosing where to stay, dine and play:

After you’ve gone through the process of picking the Hawaiian island(s) for your vacation, where do you stay, what do you need to know and how will you get the most out of your vacation? The following pages should help you answer those important questions.

Our island guides are designed to be a great starting point to help you plan where to stay, what to do and where to dine. Follow these links to each individual Hawaiian island guides:

– Oahu vacation guide

– Maui vacation guide

– Kauai vacation guide

– Hawaii, the Big Island vacation guide

Need a Hawaii vacation itinerary that includes all the must-see and do attractions and activities? See our page with what we believe are the very best Hawaii vacation itineraries .

Regarding selecting your accommodations, see our article: How to choose the best Hawaii hotel, condo or villa .

We love helping readers stretch their Hawaii vacation budget to get the most out of their stay. Here’s our popular series of Hawaii vacation money saving articles:

–  How to save money on your Hawaii accommodation

– How to save money on tours and activities

– How to save money on dining in Hawaii

– How to save money on a Hawaii rental car

Things to know before you go to Hawaii:

– What to pack for a Hawaii vacation  — With this packing checklist, you’ll be prepared for all the fun and adventures you’ll enjoy in Hawaii.

– How to be comfortable on the long flight(s) to Hawaii .

– Hawaii vacation safety tips

– Hawaii weather — This page provides information on weather patterns as well as the upcoming Hawaii weather forecast. On the topic of weather, lots of people have questions and concerns about rain, be sure and read these FAQs about rain on your Hawaii vacation .

– Hawaii vacation etiquette  — This article covers all you need to know for being a polite first-time visitor to Hawaii.

– Most surprising things about visiting Hawaii — This article helps you to be prepared for what you may encounter as a first time Hawaii visitor.

– Hawaiian words to know for your vacation

We hope this guide to your first time visiting Hawaii will be useful. We’ve written over 3,000 articles here at Go Visit Hawaii, so if you don’t see what you’re looking for, use the search box at the top of the page.

Sign up for our free email newsletters that are issued two to three times per week to keep up to date with Hawaii deals, travel news and tips. Use this link to enter your email address.

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Planning a Trip to Hawaii for the First Time: Unforgettable Experiences Waiting

If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii for the first time, you’re probably wondering where to begin. From world-famous beaches to active volcanoes, each island in Hawaii has its own unique flavor to explore.

Embarking on your very first journey to Hawaii is an exciting adventure, filled with promise and opportunity. The Aloha State, home to a rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and unforgettable experiences, is an idyllic destination for first-time visitors.

Whether you’re planning a family vacation , an intimate getaway, or an adventurous solo trip, each Hawaiian Island offers something unique. From the bustling cityscapes of Oahu to the captivating sights of the Big Island and the laid-back ambiance of Maui and Kauai , your trip will be soaked in sunshine, sprinkled with aloha, and underscored by the gentle rhythm of the Pacific waves.

So, where to go in Hawaii first time? Let’s dive in!

Big Island Must-Visit Attractions for First-Time Visitors

Hawai’i volcanoes national park.

Open in Maps: Volcano, HI 96785

If you’re visiting Hawaii for the first time, a trip to the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is absolutely essential. This unique park grants you an unparalleled experience of nature’s profound power and beauty, with magnificent volcanic landscapes , intricate lava tubes, historic petroglyphs, and – if conditions permit – the unforgettable sight of flowing lava.

Encompassing two active volcanoes, Mauna Loa and Kilauea, it’s a window into the raw, dynamic processes that shape our planet and a testament to the transformative nature of Earth’s forces.

The park is also home to some of Hawaii’s most iconic species, providing a captivating opportunity for wildlife observation and photography.

Before you go, make sure to read the biggest mistakes people make at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park so you can learn from the mistakes of those who’ve gone before you.

Manta Ray Night Dive/Snorkel

First time in Hawaii? If you’re seeking an adventure that marries both awe and intrigue, look no further than a manta ray night dive or snorkel. The mesmerizing dance of the manta rays under the cloak of the Pacific night sky offers you an unforgettable encounter with these stunning creatures.

Spotlighting their natural grace and agility, this experience offers a captivating glimpse into Hawaii’s vibrant marine fauna.

Related Post: Best Snorkel Tour Big Island – 4 Ways to Save Up to 6% Off

For the best encounter, we recommend the moonlit waters off the Kona Coast on Big Island . Renowned for its rich plankton population, it’s a favored spot for these gentle giants and an absolute must-do for marine enthusiasts!

Waipio Valley and Black Sand Beach

For first-time visitors, the best way to experience the Waipio Valley and Black Sand Beach is to participate in a guided tour . These tours provide a unique perspective as they are administered by locals who have intimate knowledge of the area and its history.

Moreover, the drive down to the valley can be challenging due to its steep nature. A guided tour eliminates this concern. Once there, take a leisurely walk along the black sand beach, brown toes in the cool surf, and marvel at the valley’s towering cliffs.

Whatever your fitness level, don’t forget to bring your camera – the views here are spectacular and well worth remembering.

What is the Best Way to See Hawaii for the First Time?

The best way to see Hawaii for the first time is by planning your trip and identifying the unique experiences and sights that each island has to offer. Book activities in advance, consider island hopping for a diverse experience and don’t forget to budget for dining and activities.

This strategy ensures you don’t miss out on the unforgettable experiences on the major islands, the natural beauty, and the world-famous attractions that the Hawaiian Islands are famous for.

Where to Go in Oahu for First-Time Visitors

Pearl harbor national memorial.

Open in Maps: 1 Arizona Memorial Pl, Honolulu, HI 96818

For the first-time traveler to Oahu, the Pearl Harbor National Memorial is a must-see destination. This place will always top our list for Hawaii for beginners.

As a poignant reminder of this pivotal moment in history, the memorial stands as a testament to the men and women who lost their lives during the attack on Pearl Harbor during World War II.

Offering various points of interest like the USS Arizona Memorial and the Battleship Missouri Memorial , a visit here allows you to gain a deeper understanding of the events that shaped America during the war years.

Embraced by natural beauty, the central Oahu area where the memorial is located is a sight to behold in itself, further enhancing your visit.

An average visit to the Pearl Harbor National Memorial can take around 4-6 hours, which includes exploring the various sites within the memorial premises. A visit to this world-famous destination is not just a dive into history, but also a commemoration of courage and resilience.

Waikiki Beach

Open in Maps: Honolulu, HI 96815

Soaking up the sun at the world-famous Waikiki Beach is an unforgettable experience for any first-time visitor to Hawaii.

With its gentle waves and crystal clear waters, it’s the perfect place to relax, swim, or indulge in water sports. Here, you can try your hand at surfing, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and many more fun activities.

Related Post:  Volcano Tours Big Island – 5 Incredible Hawaii Adventures

Moreover, it’s also famous for its legendary surfer Duke Kahanamoku. You’ll find numerous shops along the beachfront where you can rent equipment or take a lesson if you’re a beginner.

Waikiki Beach is ideal all year round, but for the warmest weather, aim to visit between April and November. Just remember, it can get quite busy, so beat the crowd by arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon.

Polynesian Cultural Center

Open in Maps: 55-370 Kamehameha Hwy, Laie, HI 96762

The Polynesian Cultural Center , situated on the North Shore of Oahu, is an absolute must-visit for anyone visiting Hawaii for the first time. It offers a captivating exploration of the cultures, traditions, and history of Polynesia.

Part theme park, part living museum, you’ll be charmed by the interactive villages showcasing the art, dance, and daily life of the Polynesian people, from Hawaii to Fiji, Samoa, and beyond.

For an immersive experience, try their world-class luau, complete with a feast and show. However, the exploration of such rich history and culture isn’t free.

Entry to the Polynesian Cultural Center requires paid admission, but its unforgettable experiences make the cost worthwhile. But don’t worry! Polynesian Cultural Center discount tickets are frequently available on Tripster.

Do You Need a Passport to Go to Hawaii?

If you are a U.S. citizen, you won’t require a passport to travel to Hawaii as it is part of the United States. However, it’s crucial to have a valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license, during your travels for identification purposes.

Which Hawaiian Island is Best for First-time Families?

If you’re planning a first-time family vacation to Hawaii, Oahu is a wonderful choice with its world-famous Waikiki Beach and historic landmarks like Pearl Harbor National Memorial.

Maui is another excellent option for families, offering the breathtaking Road to Hana , while Kauai charms with attractions such as Waimea Canyon.

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However, for diverse experiences ranging from active volcanoes to black sand beaches and manta ray snorkeling, the Big Island stands out as an unforgettable destination.

Things to Do in Maui for First-Time Visitors

Road to hana.

For first-time visitors seeking out the natural beauty of Hawai’i, the Road to Hana , located in East Maui, is an unforgettable journey. This winding, scenic route is known for its lush landscapes, countless waterfalls, and serene black sand beaches.

This road trip is arguably the best way to visit Hawaii. But for a grander view, you can take a helicopter tour too!

Key stopovers on this adventure include the historic Hana Town, Seven Sacred Pools at Ohe’o, and the Pipiwai Trail which takes you through a bamboo forest straight to an awe-inspiring waterfall. Don’t forget to indulge in the exotic, fresh fruit stands along the route too!

Haleakalā National Park

When visiting Maui for the first time, be prepared to be swept off your feet by the breathtaking view and unique experience that Haleakalā National Park offers.

From the highest peak that stands mighty at 10,023 feet above sea level, you can witness the sun awaken above the cloud line, painting the sky in hues of spectral brilliance. Remember to bring warm clothing as it can get quite chilly at that elevation.

The Park is a representation of Hawaii’s diverse natural beauty, housing a variety of landscapes from the volcanic Haleakalā crater to the subtropical rainforest in the Kipahulu section, teeming with waterfalls and beautiful trails.

You can also explore Hawaiian culture here, as the park plays host to a myriad of native species and has significant cultural sites which are great for understanding Hawaii’s rich cultural heritage.

Whether it is stargazing or hiking, Haleakalā National Park offers an unforgettable experience for every type of traveler.

Molokini Crater Snorkeling

If you’re wondering where to go in Hawaii for your first time, don’t let the opportunity to snorkel at the world-famous Molokini Crater pass you by.

Positioned between the islands of Maui and Kaho’olawe, this crescent-shaped, partly submerged volcanic crater provides an underwater sanctuary perfect for first-time family vacations to Hawaii.

Related Post: Maui Itineraries – The Ultimate Day-by-Day Guide for Your Maui Vacation

The clear, sheltered waters brimming with vibrant coral and a diverse range of marine life promise an unforgettable snorkeling experience.

You might spy turtles, manta rays, and a plethora of tropical fish – truly a natural spectacle to behold. The Molokini Crater is also an easily accessible snorkeling spot, with numerous tour operators conducting trips from Maui.

What is the Best Hawaiian Island to Visit for First-Timers?

If you’re visiting Hawaii for the first time, Oahu is often considered the best island to start your Hawaiian journey as it provides a mix of urban city life, stunning natural beauty, and immersive Hawaiian culture.

However, the ideal choice highly depends on your personal travel style and interests. The Big Island of Hawaii is highly recommended if you’re seeking a diverse range of experiences, from active volcanoes to black-sand beaches and unique encounters like night snorkeling with manta rays.

When is the Best Time to Go Whale Watching in Hawaii?

The prime time for whale watching in Hawaii is the winter season, particularly from mid-December through mid-April. During these months, the shallow warm waters of Maui become a popular spot for migrating humpback whales to give birth.

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The lighthouse lookout on Oahu’s Windward Coast offers spectacular views with whales often spotted in the Molokai Channel at this time.

A trip there is the best way to visit Hawaii for the first time if you’re after breathtaking views and responsible whale watching. Read our guide to the best places for whale watching .

What to See in Kauai for First-Time Visitors

Na pali coast.

The Na Pali Coast , known for its breathtaking beauty, rugged terrain, and cascading waterfalls, is sure to leave an indelible impression on any first-time visitor to Hawaii.

These towering emerald cliffs draped in mist, dramatically contrasting against the endless azure ocean, offer an unparalleled view of the island’s primitive charm.

Due to the rugged nature of the coast, the best ways to fully appreciate Na Pali’s majesty are either by helicopter tours , which give you a bird’s eye view of the stunning scenery, or, for the more adventurous, by hiking the legendary Kalalau Trail.

The strenuous trek isn’t for everyone, but it’s the perfect way to fully immerse in the natural beauty of the Na Pali Coast. However, this journey requires preparation and a good level of fitness.

Waimea Canyon Lookout

Open in Maps: Waimea, HI 96796

Possessing a reputation for being the ‘Grand Canyon of the Pacific’, Waimea Canyon cuts a dramatic figure across Kauai’s landscape. Colors ignite the cliffs, displaying hues of red, green, and blue, a testament to the geologic richness of the area.

For the optimal experience, take a hike along one of the marked trails that navigate their way through the canyon.

Related Post: Waimea Canyon Hike – Explore Kauai’s Natural Wonder

From easily accessible walks to more strenuous hikes, there’s an opportunity for everyone to witness the spectacle. And when you reach the lookout point, brace yourself for unobstructed views of Hawaii’s most jaw-dropping natural beauty.

The views are magnificent and unforgettable, making it an absolute must for your Hawaiian first time visit.

Hanalei Bay and Valley

One place you mustn’t miss on your first time in Hawaii is the breathtaking Hanalei Bay and Valley on Kauai Island. This natural beauty is considered a gem of Hawaii, showcasing a landscape that is nothing short of picturesque.

The Bay features gentle waves perfect for beginners in water activities, and the lush greenery of the valley offers some of the best hiking trails on the island.

What adds to its charm is the historic town of Hanalei nestled near the bay. Here you can immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture, savor local cuisine, and shop for distinctive Hawaiian crafts and artworks, making the Hanalei Bay and Valley not just a sightseeing stop, but a full-fledged Hawaiian experience.

How Many International Airports Are There in Hawaii?

Hawaii hosts a total of three international airports. These are located on the islands of Oahu (Honolulu International Airport), Maui (Kahului Airport), and The Big Island (Kona International Airport).

Need Help Planning Your First Trip to Hawaii?

For those visiting Hawaii for the first time, a smart and cost-effective approach to planning your trip is to take advantage of Hawaii vacation packages available on Tripster.

These packages offer the convenience of bundling everything – from your accommodation to your activities. Whether it’s a first time family vacation to Hawaii or it’s a solo Hawaii first time visit, Tripster has got you covered!

With various options to select from, you can access discounted tickets to top attractions, renowned tours, and unique experiences, all tailored to suit your budget . It’s a hassle-free method to ensure you experience the best Hawaii has to offer during your first visit.

Start planning your unforgettable Hawaiian adventure today — secure your discounted tickets and make your dream Hawaii trip a reality!

What Did We Miss?

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Written by Michaela Satterfield

Michaela is a journalist who views every story she writes as an adventure, leading her to explore new places and meet new people....

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Must-Read Guide to Visiting Hawaii for the First Time

Last Updated August 23, 2022 William Tang

You are here: Home » Travel Guides » Must-Read Guide to Visiting Hawaii for the First Time

If you’re visiting Hawaii for the first time, it can be a bit overwhelming to choose where to go and when. This gorgeous island chain offers a wide variety of experiences and attractions, and it helps to have the inside scoop and a handy guide that can help you make the most of your trip.

Now that you’ve read the best island to visit in Hawaii for first time visitors , this is companion guide to offer you heaps of helpful information hot tips, and useful advice to plan your trip to Hawaii.

Read more about Hawaii

• Honolulu 2 day itinerary
• Best waterfall hikes on Oahu
• Ultimate 5 day Maui itinerary
• Where is the best area to stay in Maui?
• 13 best beaches in Kona
• Best snorkeling on Big Island
• Kauai in 3 days
• Best luau in Kauai

Tips on saving money you need to know about

• Car rentals – Get way better rental car rates with these promo codes .
• Hotels – Use corporate codes or get Genius 2 tier with Booking for instant savings.
• Flights – Have you ever heard of the Skyscanner “Everywhere” feature ?
• Deals – Bookmark this travel deals page.

In This Article

Flight schedules

Activities you want to do, best time to visit hawaii, cheapest month to visit hawaii, how long should you visit hawaii, which hawaiian island has the best beaches, which is the cheapest island in hawaii to visit, renting a car in hawaii, frequently asked questions, visiting hawaii for the first time.

If you’ve always wanted to visit Hawaii and are finally getting ready to make it a reality, you’re no doubt aware that in addition to plenty of excitement, there are also a lot of decisions that need to be made – when to travel, where to go, and how to get around when you’re in the destination. We know how much research and work is involved when visiting Hawaii for the first time. 

By using our handy guide, you’ll save yourself plenty of time and stress. 

If you’ve started researching flights to Hawaii, you may have discovered that the islands offer a variety of airports. Some islands have more than one airport, and while one may seem more convenient at a glance, it might not be that way in reality. 

It’s recommended to always fly into the bigger airports for a few reasons. Number one, you’re likely to have more flight options to choose from. Secondly, the majority of hotels and resorts are usually within easy reach of the major airport. 

Most travelers visiting Hawaii for the first time choose to fly to Honolulu on Oahu and then move around from there. Be aware though, that flying to the smaller islands can often involve small, propeller planes. 

Hawaii is a paradise for outdoor adventures. From snorkeling and hiking to sailing and helicopter flights, there’s a wide range of activities to choose from. 

On your first trip to Hawaii, it can be tempting to leave it all up to chance and go where the wind takes you, but if you’re going to make the most of your time on the islands, it’s advisable to do your research and planning on booking things to do in Hawaii  well in advance. 

One piece of handy advice is to schedule your most important activities early on. A lot of things to do in Hawaii are weather-dependent and may have to be postponed as a result. By planning these early on, you can always reschedule if needed. You don’t want to run out of time to reschedule that must-see experience you had your heart set on. 

Booking ahead wherever possible is also highly recommended, especially if you’re visiting Hawaii for the first time in the busiest period. Not only does this ensure you won’t miss out, but it saves you from frittering away your precious vacation time waiting in long queues. 

Truthfully, there’s never a bad time to visit Hawaii. That said, depending on the experience you wish to have, certain times of the year can be better than others. When planning your first visit to Hawaii, you want to research the weather and busiest seasons so you can plan accordingly.

Certain times of year are busier than others. School vacation periods tend to be busier in terms of tourist numbers (March, and June to August). Early to mid-December is the quietest period in Hawaii but there’s a spike in tourism around the Christmas and New Year period to be aware of. 

If you’re looking for the sweet spot when crowds and costs are low, but the weather is pleasant, then the  best time to visit Hawaii  is during May and September, as well as April and October.

If you’re visiting Hawaii for the first time on a budget, you’ll be looking for the most affordable time to visit. The increased demand during busier seasons results in an increase in costs. So, if you’re looking to get more bang for your buck, try visiting in the quieter periods. 

Spring (April and May) and autumn (September to mid-November) offer reasonable prices, fewer crowds, and generally good weather. 

To really get the most out of your trip when visiting Hawaii for the first time, it’s recommended to plan for a minimum of around ten days.

It’s recommended to see at least two islands per trip. The general rule of thumb is to dedicate between four and seven days per island, especially for your first visit to Hawaii, to allow you enough time to explore.

If you’re looking for sprawling, wide beaches of golden sand, lapped by turquoise waters, then Oahu is the destination for you, with Maui coming a close (and less crowded) second. 

Oahu is known for its popular beaches on the North Shore, Waikiki, Lanikai Beach, and Hanauma Bay.

Oahu offers the best value among all the Hawaiian Islands for tourists. There is a wide range of  accommodation options to choose from, as well plenty of activities, attractions, and  bookable tours  to enjoy, ensuring you can always find a deal. 

In addition, Oahu offers excellent public transport to save you on car rental fees too. 

While most islands in Hawaii offer some form of public transport, you may find yourself needing to hire a car for part of your vacation. While Oahu has a great public transport system which makes getting around a breeze, other islands are best explored in a rental car, like Maui, Big Island, and Molokai. 

Generally, renting a car in Hawaii is relatively inexpensive, with 4x4s costing slightly more. Be prepared for slightly higher gas prices in Hawaii than on the mainland, with some islands having even higher gas prices. Molokai and Lanai have the highest gas prices. 

If you’re considering renting a car on your first visit to Hawaii, it’s best to book in advance. Especially if you’re visiting in the busy season when the demand is high and rental agents often sell out. 

Overview of each Hawaiian island

Can’t decide which islands to include when visiting Hawaii for the first time? We’ve summarized each island below to give you an idea of what to expect to help you plan which island to visit in Hawaii.

Sometimes referred to as ‘The Gathering Place’, Oahu is the third-largest island and the most populated island in the chain. The island offers a unique mix of East and West, as well as a variety of distinctive regions, and is the best island to visit in Hawaii for first-time visitors. 

From big city living in Honolulu, the historic Pearl Harbor, and Waikiki’s beaches to the rugged North Shore, there’s plenty to see and explore here.

Also, don’t discount how green it is on the island with the best trails near Honolulu and waterfalls you can hike to .

MORE RESOURCES ON OAHU

Best shaved ice in Honolulu

Top snorkeling on Oahu for beginners

How to plan a 2 day Honolulu itinerary

5 Waikiki beach hotels that won’t break the bank

Hot things to do in Waikiki right now

Maui is also known as the ‘Valley Isle’ and is known for the sacred Iao Valley, incredible postcard-perfect beaches (some offering great snorkeling sites ), and amazing whale watching. Explore bamboo forests, waterfalls, volcanic craters, and iconic red and black sand beaches.

Some of the most popular things to do are the sunrise at Haleakala National Park and driving the Road to Hana.

As the second most visited island, there’s a wide range of accommodation, shopping, dining, and  activities in Maui  to choose from. 

MORE RESOURCES ON MAUI

Where to go snorkeling in Maui

Best areas to stay in Maui

Top beaches in Maui

Maui 5 day itinerary

Your guide to Lahaina in Maui

Top things to do in Maui

Guide to Turtle Beach

This lush paradise is also known as ‘The Garden Isle’. From Napali Coast’s jagged, forested cliffs to lovely beaches and waterfalls – one of the best ways to explore the island’s natural beauty is on a hike or on a helicopter flight overhead. Kauai offers a more rustic experience than Oahu and Maui. 

Swim, snorkel, and suntan on Poipu Beach, see the Kilauea Lighthouse, hike through Kokee State Park , or take to a kayak on the Wailua River for all the adventure you can handle.

MORE RESOURCES ON KAUAI

How to see Kauai in 3 Days

The best places to stay in Kauai – a neighborhood guide

Kauai’s best beaches

Guide to Snorkeling on Kauai

Best Luau in Kauai

The youngest and largest island in the chain is not as green as other islands. Instead, it offers unique lava landscapes and an active volcano, as well as white sand beaches,  waterfalls , and towering mountains. 

Discover the geological wonders at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the lush tropical valley of Hilo, and the unbelievable black sands of Punaluu Beach on Big Island. 

MORE RESOURCES ON BIG ISLAND

Must-see Big Island waterfalls

Top things to do in Hilo

Best snorkeling on Big Island of Hawaii

Offering a handful of luxurious resorts contrasted with rugged, off-the-beaten-path adventures, Lanai may be the smallest island but it’s not short on adventure. From secluded beaches, world-class golf, hiking, and horse-back rides, there’s no shortage of activities on Lanai.

MORE RESOURCES ON LANAI

Home to the highest sea cliffs in the world, Molokai is only 38 miles long and 10 miles across at its widest point. Offering an authentic experience of the traditional Hawaiian lifestyle, the island is the most unaffected by mass tourism.

Explore the cliffs leading to  Kalaupapa National Historical Park  or discover Papohaku Beach, outdoor adventures abound here.

MORE RESOURCES ON MOLOKAI

If it’s your first time visiting Hawaii, Oahu will feel like a must although it’s entirely okay to break from that norm and start with Maui. Kauai is a favourite for most though so make sure you consider that island. Lastly, there’s the Big island if you want to see the volcanoes and the most rugged of terrain.

When you go to Hawaii for the first time, you’ll want to do it all but our advice is to plan your trip according to how many days you have and what you’re more interested in as you evaluate each island. Two islands is a great combination for a first trip with popular ones being Oahu + Maui or Oahu + Big Island.

What you should read next

• An Insider’s Guide To Turtle Beach, Maui
• Best Snorkeling on Oahu for Beginners: Your Guide Around the Island
• 11 Stunning Waterfalls in Oahu You Can Hike To
• Best Island to Visit in Hawaii For First Time Visitors
• 3 of the Best Hikes Near Honolulu

About William Tang

William Tang is the Chief of Awesome behind the award-winning Going Awesome Places which is focused on outdoor adventure, and experiential travel. His true passion lies in telling stories, inspiring photography and videos, and writing detailed itineraries and travel guides. He is a member of Travel Media Association of Canada (TMAC), Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), and Travel Massive. He has also been featured in publications such as Reader's Digest, Entrepreneur, Men's Journal, and Haute Living. Make sure to learn more about William Tang to find out his story and how Going Awesome Places started.

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The Best Places To Visit In Hawaii For First-Timers

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If you’re planning your first-ever trip to Hawaii, figuring out where to go can feel overwhelming with so many islands and options. But we’ll help narrow it down to the top destinations you shouldn’t miss for an incredible Hawaiian getaway.

If short on time, be sure to see Oahu’s famous Waikiki Beach, take in Maui’s Road to Hana, and visit Volcanoes National Park on Hawaii’s Big Island for a quick taste of the top sights.

In this guide we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan your ideal itinerary, including the top beaches, natural wonders, historical and cultural sites, and activities across the most popular islands for first-time Hawaii visitors.

We’ll also offer sample one week itineraries to help you make the most of your vacation.

Start on Oahu for Iconic Hawaiian Sights

Waikiki beach.

Known for its pristine sand and prime surfing, Waikiki Beach is arguably Oahu’s most famous stretch of coastline. Over 2 miles long with views of Diamond Head crater, this iconic beach offers countless water activities like outrigger canoeing, catamaran rides, and snorkeling tours to see sea turtles and tropical fish.

When you’re ready for land, browse the high-end stores and dine at oceanfront restaurants in the adjacent Waikiki neighborhood. Don’t miss the free hula shows at the beach’s Duke Kahanamoku statue honoring Hawaii’s famous Olympic swimmer.

Pearl Harbor & USS Arizona Memorial

Pay tribute to the lives lost in the 1941 Pearl Harbor attack at the USS Arizona Memorial . Managed by the National Park Service, this somber site lets you see the submerged wreckage of the USS Arizona battleship.

Combine it with the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum and Battleship Missouri Memorial for a full perspective on the pivotal event that brought the U.S. into WWII. Ferry rides to the memorial depart every 15 minutes from the visitor center.

Hike Diamond Head Crater

A reminder of Oahu’s volcanic origins, iconic Diamond Head is a must-do hike offering sweeping panoramas. The steep 1.6-mile round trip pathway winds through tunnel openings and up staircases to the crater’s 761-foot summit overlooking Waikiki and downtown Honolulu.

Go early to beat the heat on this mostly exposed hike, packing plenty of water. If visiting with kids, be prepared to assist them on the climb’s steeper sections.

Check Out the North Shore’s World-Famous Surf

From October through March, massive swells roll onto Oahu’s famed North Shore , creating some of the planet’s best big wave surfing. Catch pros tackling legendary breaks like Pipeline, Sunset Beach, and Waimea Bay along the coastline dubbed the “Seven Mile Miracle.” When the waves mellow in summer, the North Shore transforms into a mecca for snorkelers and sea turtle viewers at spots like Shark’s Cove and Three Tables Beach.

Don’t skip the small surf towns like Haleiwa filled with shops selling surf gear and shave ice.

Relax and Recharge on Maui

As the second largest Hawaiian island, Maui is a magical place with lush rainforests, breathtaking waterfalls, stunning beaches, historic towns, and incredible whale watching. It’s the perfect destination to relax, rejuvenate, and indulge in the island life.

Take the Road to Hana

The spectacular Road to Hana winds along Maui’s northern coast for 64 miles passing waterfalls, swimming holes, scenic outlooks, hiking trails, and the iconic red sands of Kaihalulu Beach. This full-day adventure lets you experience the unspoiled beauty of east Maui with stops like the Haleakala National Park and the Seven Sacred Pools.

Just take it slow and watch for one-lane bridges along the way.

Explore Haleakala National Park

Haleakala National Park protects east Maui’s towering volcano rising over 10,000 feet high. Witness a breathtaking sunrise from the summit then hike trails through out-of-this-world landscapes dotted with silversword plants found nowhere else on Earth.

Or immerse yourself in the lush rainforest and waterfalls of Kipahulu near the famous Ohe’o Gulch with the Seven Sacred Pools.

Visit Secret Black Sand Beaches on the Way to Hana

Most visitors only experience the Road to Hana one way, but the drive in reverse offers several opportunities to discover beaches few people ever see. Waianapanapa State Park hides striking black sands between verdant cliffs while secluded Koki Beach requires a short hike through an enchanting bamboo forest.

And Wai’anapanapa’s legendary lava tube caves make for a memorable detour before stopping at standout sights on your return trip.

Check out the Whale Watching

Each winter between December to April, thousands of gentle humpback whales migrate to Maui from Alaska to breed, calve, and nurse their young. According to the Maui Whale Festival , Maui sees the most whale sightings of all the Hawaiian Islands with over 12,000 humpbacks spotted in 2022.

Grab some binoculars and scout for their tails, fins, and blows from scenic lookouts or hop on a whale watching cruise departing regularly from Lahaina and Ma’alaea harbors.

See Volcanic Sights on the Big Island

Marvel at volcanoes national park.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a must-see for those making their first trip to Hawaii. Spanning over 300,000 acres, this park is home to the world’s most active volcanoes including Kilauea and Mauna Loa.

Visitors can drive the scenic Crater Rim Drive and hike across volcanic landscapes down to where flowing lava spills into the ocean. According to the National Park Service, “even today, few destinations feel as dynamic as the landscape here”.

It is undoubtedly a geological and ecological wonder to marvel at.

See the Lava Flowing into the Ocean at Night

One of Hawaii’s most mesmerizing sights is seeing bright red lava meet the sea at night. On a moonlit evening, visitors can witness lava streams flowing from Kilauea volcano into the Pacific Ocean . The sight of the 2,000°F molten rock oozing into the water, setting off bursts of steam, and forming smoldering black ledges is simply amazing to behold.

Relax on the Black Sand Beaches

Black sand beaches formed from lava are prevalent on the Big Island. A standout is Punaluʻu Beach near Naʻalehu town. Its jet black sands and gentle waves make it a peaceful spot to unwind. Green sea turtles can also be seen basking on the beach.

For stunning views, head to Pololū Valley Lookout to gaze upon the steep cliffs dropping to a secluded black sand beach.

Check out the Waterfalls in Waipio Valley

Waipio Valley is home to many cascading waterfalls including the magnificent Hiʻilawe Falls dropping over 1,200 feet. Guided tours take visitors down into the valley where taro fields, horses and the area’s falls come into stunning view.

According to Hawaii Revealed guidebook, “Waipio Valley on the Hamakua Coast offers some of Hawaii’s most beautiful waterfall scenery”. It’s easy to lose track of time while taking in the serenity and beauty here.

One Week Sample Itinerary

Days 1-3: oahu highlights.

No trip to Hawaii is complete without visiting Oahu. Spend your first three days exploring this vibrant island’s gorgeous beaches, iconic landmarks, and captivating culture. Stay in Waikiki to be close to top attractions like Waikiki Beach , Diamond Head State Monument , Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial , the Polynesian Cultural Center , and great shopping and dining on Kalakaua Avenue .

Must-see stops include snorkeling at Hanauma Bay , one of Oahu’s most spectacular nature preserves, hiking up the ridge of the crater at Diamond Head for sweeping views, learning about World War II history at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center and Museum , exploring Polynesian villages and experiencing dances and music at the Polynesian Cultural Center , and strolling down Waikiki’s famous beach lined with hotels, shops and restaurants.

Be sure to sample local flavors like fresh pineapple, shrimp trucks and shave ice!

Days 4-6: Road to Hana & Haleakala National Park

Next, fly over to Maui and spend three days taking in the island’s lush rainforests, breathtaking waterfalls and winding coastal vistas along the renowned Road to Hana . Stay in Paia or Hana towns to be closest to the sights.

The narrow, twisting Hana Highway has over 600 curves and 59 bridges , including majestic manmade and natural wonders. Must-see Road to Hana stops include the Twin Falls , Waikamoi Ridge Trail , Hana Lava Tube , Wailua Falls , Pools of Oheo , and red sand beach at Kaihalulu .

Cap off your time in Maui with the drive to the otherworldly summit of Haleakala in Haleakala National Park to watch a dazzling sunrise or sunset. At 10,000 feet elevation, the volcanic crater offers out-of-this world panoramic views.

Keep an eye out for the unique Haleakala silver sword plant found nowhere else!

Day 7: Volcanoes National Park

On your last day, take a quick flight to Hawaii’s Big Island. Spend it exploring the raw volcanic landscape in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to walk across steaming craters and see Madame Pele’s lurking lava.

Don’t miss seeing the red glow at the Halema’uma’u crater at night, admiring the rainbow colored volcanic glass at Keanakāko’i Crater , hiking through the fern and ohia tree forest on the Kilauea Iki Trail , and learning about Hawaiian mythology and culture at the Jaggar Museum .

For a once-in-a-lifetime experience to top off your trip, consider taking a helicopter tour for a bird’s eye view flight over active volcanoes and lava flows. Seeing Hawaii’s geothermal phenomenon from the sky offers a jaw-dropping perspective you’ll never forget!

With so much natural beauty, culture, history, beaches, and adventure, Hawaii offers something for all interests and styles of travel. Use our guide and sample itineraries to help plan out your stops for an incredible first visit you’ll never forget.

The hardest part will just be choosing which islands and sights to see when you undoubtedly start planning your return trip as soon as you get home!

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Jane Smith is a Hawaii resident and author born and raised on the island of Oahu. Her Hawaiian heritage shines through in her writing, infusing it with the Aloha spirit and local flavor.

Jane draws inspiration from the tropical island lifestyle - outrigger canoeing at sunrise, beach picnics, hiking to hidden waterfalls. Her works immerse readers in the beauty and culture of Hawaii.

An avid surfer since childhood, Jane often wakes early to catch waves along the North Shore. She also enjoys practicing Hawaiian crafts like lei-making, lauhala weaving, and kapa cloth printing.

When not writing or adventuring outdoors, you can find Jane sipping mai tais at the local tiki bar, listening to ukulele music at the night market, or cooking up a big pot of stew at home.

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First Time In Hawaii: A Perfect One Week Hawaii Itinerary

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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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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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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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First Timer’s Guide to Hawaii

There is a good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you click on any of these links, I might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you (which I really appreciate, thank you!) The full disclosure policy can be found here.

A first timer’s guide to Hawaii

So, you’re planning a Hawaii vacation. Congratulations!! You’re going to love Hawaii. From beautiful beaches to breathtaking mountains to crystal clear water, Hawaii has something for everyone.

This first timer’s guide to Hawaii will help you get started in planning your Hawaii vacation. 

First, there are a few things to learn about Hawaii before you plan your vacation. 

Before you do anything else, make sure to check out 10 things to know before going to Hawaii and 20 things to never do in Hawaii.  

Do I need to rent a car in Hawaii?

You’ll definitely need a rental car, I recommend Discount Hawaii Car Rental . You’ll find the best prices on rental cars in Hawaii.

You can reserve your car now and pay upon arrival. Prices are so much lower than anywhere else, make sure you reserve early for the best deals. 

Work with a Hawaii Travel Agent

As a Hawaii Travel Agent, of course, I am going to recommend that you work with a travel planner who specializes in Hawaii.

Even though Hawaii is technically part of the United States, it’s far away and really does feel like another place entirely.

Trying to plan a Hawaii vacation can be overwhelming, so why not work with an expert and save yourself time, and probably a lot of hassle. 

You can spend hours trying to figure things out on your own, only to end up feeling more confused. Contact me or fill out my custom travel request and we’ll plan a Hawaii vacation that’s perfect just for you.

If working with a Travel Agent isn’t for you, no hard feelings! I have plenty of information on this blog to help you DIY a Hawaii vacation if you’d prefer to go in that direction.

Don’t try to visit every island

If you learn one thing from this first timer’s guide to Hawaii, let it be this! Don’t try to visit every island on your first Hawaii vacation.

I recommend one week per island. If you only have one week, you should visit two islands maximum. Just trust me, there are plenty of things to do and see on each island.

Let’s take a quick peek at the islands to help you decide:

Things to do in Maui

Maui is what you might consider first if you’re thinking about a honeymoon in Hawaii.   Gorgeous beaches and romantic resorts make Maui a favorite honeymoon destination.  

Maui is also a great family destination for those who enjoy fabulous beaches, taking road trips, and any water activities.  

Some of the best snorkeling in Hawaii can be found in Maui.   Molokini Crater   is a top snorkeling spot on the islands.   Maui also offers adults-only accommodations, which can be hard to find in Hawaii.

The Big Island, or Hawaii Island, is geographically the largest in Hawaii.   Hawaii island is perfect for first timer’s who want to see the active volcano of Kilauea.  

The Big Island is extremely diverse, which means you can experience plenty of different activities and even climate zones, all on one island.   The Big Island has excellent snorkeling and plenty of beautiful waterfalls.

Some of the most beautiful waterfalls on the Big Island are located in Hilo. I have a post with 20 things to do in Hilo if you’re interested. 

Kauai, in my opinion, is the most under-rated of the Hawaiian islands.   It’s the perfect destination for adults or families with older children.  

From hiking to kayaking to water activities, Kauai is a nature lovers dream.   Kauai has beautiful scenery and feels very secluded.  

If you’re looking to get away from the crowds, Kauai is a great choice. Check out 25 things to do in Kauai for even more tips. 

Oahu is the most populated island and the most popular for tourism. “ The Gathering Place” has a little bit of everything.  

From nightlife and dining in Waikiki to more remote areas outside of the city.   Oahu has great hikes, beaches, and plenty of historical and cultural activities.  

If you want to enjoy the nightlife or high-end shopping, Oahu is really the only option for those things.

To learn more about Oahu check out 10 things to do in Waikiki or things to do in Haleiwa . 

Try some local food

You’re in Hawaii, don’t forget to try some local food. First, check out the Farmer’s Markets and check out the fabulous fresh produce. You might also want to try some local dishes such as:

Hawaiian Plate Lunch, Shave Ice, Saimin, Poke, Manapua, and the Loco Moco.

Learn about history and culture before you leave

You don’t have to learn everything about Hawaii before you visit, but take some time to read a book or two before you leave.

You can also get a free Audible trial and listen to the book, or a free Kindle Unlimited trial to read it on a Kindle.

I have another post with 10 things to know before going to Hawaii that can also help you. At the very least, you should learn a few basic Hawaiian words.

Yes, people in Hawaii speak English, but you’ll also hear a few Hawaiian words very often:

You probably already know this one! Aloha is used for hello, and goodbye but also has a deeper cultural and spiritual significance.

The real meaning of Aloha in Hawaiian is that of love, peace, and compassion. It’s a guideline on how to live, and so much more than just a greeting.

Mahalo means thank you. Make sure to say “mahalo” to anyone who helps you in some way.

Hawaiian green sea turtle. To learn more about sea turtles, check out the where to find sea turtles on the Big Island.

You can also find out more about sea turtles in my post on the best black sand beaches in Maui. 

Until we meet again.

Toward the mountain, often used in directions.

Toward the ocean, also used when giving directions.

Of course, there are plenty of other Hawaiian words you should learn, but these are a few to get you started.

5. Go to a luau

If it’s your first time visiting Hawaii, I know a luau is on your Hawaii bucket list. I have a blog post about the best luaus in Hawaii , but I’ll link my favorites on each island here:

Kauai – Smith Family Garden Luau .

Big Island – Island Breeze Luau at The Sheraton Kona .

Oahu – Ali’i Luau at the Polynesian Cultural Center .

Maui – The Feast at Lele .

Planning a Hawaii vacation

I hope that this first timer’s guide to Hawaii will help you plan the perfect Hawaii vacation. If you need more ideas, check out my guides to planning a vacation on each of the main islands.

If you haven’t decided which island to visit, check out which Hawaii island is best.

• How to plan a Maui vacation.
• A guide to planning an Oahu vacation.
• How to plan a Big Island vacation.
• How to plan a Kauai vacation.

If you’re looking for a Hawaii honeymoon or vacation personalized just for you, give me a call! I specialize in working with clients to create the perfect vacation for you.

That means no packages; everything is personalized. Make sure to contact me or go ahead and fill out a custom travel request , and I’ll get back to you to start planning ASAP! I’m only taking on a select number of clients per month, so contact me to check availability. 

Dreaming of Hawaii, but not ready to travel just yet? Sign up for my newsletter! You will receive a weekly email with travel tips, Hawaii deals, and more. I’ll be there whenever you’re ready to plan your vacation. Sign up below. If you love these posts and want to support my blog but aren’t prepared to travel yet, you can buy me a coffee to show your support. I ❤️ coffee!

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I am a honeymoon travel agent and destination wedding specialist for Hawaii, the Caribbean, and Mexico. I work with busy professionals who just don’t have time to do all of the research needed to pull off the perfect honeymoon or destination wedding.

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What’s the Best Hawaii Island for First-Timers?

Are you planning a hawaii vacation but don’t know which island to pick keep scrolling to find out the best hawaii island for first-timers that are packed with adventures, incredible food, and amazing resorts, this post about the best hawaii island for first-timers was written by marcie cheung (a hawaii travel expert) and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

If you’re stumped on which is the best Hawaii island for first-timers, you’re not alone. There’s no place quite like Hawaii, an archipelago with volcanoes, snow-capped mountains, rainforests, beaches, and more.

The islands boast a long, rich history, a unique food culture, and beautiful traditions. You’ll love the “aloha spirit,” and the way everyone welcomes you with open arms! And each of the major islands offers a different, individual experience.

So, when you’re going to Hawaii for the first time, it can be a bit overwhelming to know where to start! That’s why I’m here to help. I grew up visiting Hawaii, fell in love with the culture, and now I’ve visited almost 40 times.

I’ve visited each of the islands of Hawaii and I have my opinions on where I think first-time visitors to Hawaii should go. Below I’ll share all my knowledge, so keep reading.

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

Best Island in Hawaii to Visit for the First Time

In my opinion, the best Hawaii island for first-timers truly comes down to what you want out of your first island experience! You need to think about what kind of things you want to do and if you prefer a classic tourist experience of authentic island life.

Are you going for your honeymoon , on a big family vacation with kids , or are you a solo traveler looking for adventure? It’s important to consider things like your budget and if you want to rent a car .

So, below you’ll find a snapshot of each island, as well as who might consider each island the best for their first time going to Hawaii. Finally, I’ll share my pick for the very best Hawaii island for first-timers!

Big Island Overview

The Island of Hawaii is called The Big Island by locals, and you should call it this, too! It’s the biggest of the major islands, almost double the size of the next largest island.

If you’re staying on Big Island, you’re probably staying in Kailua-Kona or the Kohala Coast, though Hilo is also a popular area for visitors. You’ll probably need to rent a car if you plan on visiting the different regions of Big Island, and it’s worth it!

The Big Island of Hawaii contains an impressive 10 of the 13 climate zones in the world, including alpine forests, marshes, and lava fields. In fact, this island is home to the  Hawaii Volcanoes National Park  and it’s the only place to see lava in Hawaii.

Beaches here are completely different from the rest of the islands. You can visit white, gold, black, and even rare green sand beaches on every side of Big Island!

Things to Do

There are a few musts if you’re visiting Hawaii for the first time. Coffee drinkers will want to try the famous Kona coffee grown only in the unique conditions of the mountainside Kona Region of Big Island. You can visit a local coffee farm and go for a tour.

Take a day at the Volcano National Park . You can rent a car and drive there or  book a tour with transport . Afterward, cool off on one of the gorgeous beaches across the island and snorkel the young reefs off the Kona Coast.

In my opinion, the Big Island shines through its local experiences as well. Some of the best farmers markets in Hawaii are here. Besides trying tropical fruit and vegetables, you can eat at food trucks, and buy jewelry and local products. They’re a great place to meet locals, enjoy live music, and find fun activities.

• Volcano seekers and beach bums
• Farm tours and farmers markets
• The local experience

Maui Overview

Hawaii’s 2nd largest island, Maui is diverse in its appeal. Besides being a major flight hub, it’s closest to Molokai and Lanai, with connecting ferries to both islands. Called “The Valley Isle,” Maui is split between the West Maui Mountains and the dormant  Haleakalā National Park .

Because of this, the north and east are very rural with rainforests and agricultural villages. And the west and south are sunny and warm with luxury resorts, surfer hideaways, and tourist towns! The sky’s truly the limit when it comes to Maui and it’s a strong contender for the best Hawaii island for first-timers.

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Come to Maui for the best luxury resorts. Enjoy the biggest names in the game with sprawling pools, on-site luaus, dreamy spas, children’s programs, golf courses, high-end shopping, and top-notch restaurants and bars.

West Maui is also the place where you can book boat charters to   snorkel at the Molokini Crater  or  go whale watching  in the Auau Channel. If you prefer tons of tourist attractions and sunny beaches, stay at a hotel in South Maui.

And a visit to Maui isn’t complete without driving the Road to Hana . This road stretches almost 60 miles along the North Shore until you reach the historic town of Hana.

The trick here is that it’s truly not about the destination, but the journey ! Stop for banana bread, hike rainforests, or see waterfalls along the way.

• Luxury resorts (including Disney)
• Outdoor adventures, by land or sea
• Whale watching

Oahu Overview

Oahu is the most visited island in Hawaii, for many reasons. Honolulu Airport is the only airport accepting direct international flights to Hawaii. Also, the island is pretty easy to navigate with the only highways in Hawaii, and there are things to do for every taste.

There’s the beautiful Waikiki Beach , known for its tourist-friendly streets and 5-star hotels and resorts right off the beach. But Oahu’s also the best place to stay in Hawaii for first-timers, with affordable hotels and vacation rentals close to the big attractions. 

Besides a strong tourism board, Oahu is also home to the famous Pearl Harbor and other historic sites. Or if you prefer the local life this is the place for block parties, street fairs, and the local nightlife!

If you stay in Waikiki, you’re within walking distance not only to sparkling beaches and great shopping but also to great hiking! Hike Diamond Head Crater for amazing views.

In Honolulu, you can find a balanced mix of local food options, fancy restaurants, and food trucks. The same goes for luxury shopping, classic Hawaiian markets, and malls.  

For the outdoorsy type, you can venture out into the rainforests of the Waimanalo Forest Reserve or the rugged Kaʻena Point State Park for more intensive hiking expeditions. And Kualoa Ranch is a must  with their ATV tours !

• Direct flights
• Waikiki Nightlife
• Tourist attractions
• Affordable hotels
• Tons of food options

Kauai Overview

One of the smallest major islands, Kauai is a little different than the rest. Geologically, it’s the oldest island with a more mature landscape. This means tricky terrain, stunning colors, and formations that will take your breath away.

The entire West Side of Kauai isn’t even passable by car, and the Na Pali Coast on the North Shore is the place to go for isolated beaches. The eastern Royal Coconut Coast has a fascinating history in sugar cane plantations, and the South Shore has the best tourist beaches.

Come to Kauai if you love amazing views, fewer crowds, and an authentic island experience. Hikers dream of the challenges that await them in Waimea Canyon State Park and the mountains of the Na Pali Coast.

One of the best ways to see the wonders of  Kauai is by helicopter . Or you can find all kinds of rafting, tubing, and boat tours down the sugar cane canals on the Royal Coconut Coast.

And while North Shore has luxury resorts, you might prefer the local experience at Kauai’s famous  food truck tours ! And this is the best place to find the most down-to-earth and authentic luaus in Hawaii.

• Adventure travelers
• Lovers of the great outdoors
• An authentic island experience
• An exotic island getaway that’s all views and no crowds

Moloka’i and Lana’i

While you’re thinking about the best Hawaii island for first-timers, I had to include the 2 smallest inhabited islands available to visitors. I don’t think it’s truly the best for first-timers, but you can decide for yourself!

There isn’t much in the way of tourist attractions or big-name hotels on either island. However, there are plenty of historic landmarks and natural areas.

Moloka’i has the Kalaupapa National Historical Park, empty white sand beaches, and exciting hikes on the Kamakou land preserve.

And Lana’i is a hiker’s paradise with deserts, forests of native trees you won’t find anywhere else, and oceanside cliffs. You can also book the luxurious Four Seasons Lanai here.

• Island hoppers
• Lovers of the outdoors
• Historic landmarks
• A quiet, simple island experience

FAQ for Visiting Hawaii for the First Time

There are 8 main islands (Big Island, Maui, Oahu, Kauai, Molokai, Lanai, Niihau, and Kahoolawe. Then there are over 120 small islets and atolls. Together they form the archipelago that is the state of Hawaii. Niihau and Kahoolawe aren’t open to visitors.

I’d say that Oahu and Maui are the easiest because international flights go to those islands’ major airports. Oahu airport is open to direct flights from the Mainland, so it’s the most common Hawaii Island for first-timers. Even if you’re going to another island, you’ll probably connect through Honolulu airport first.

While each of the islands has its most beautiful spots, Kauai is definitely the winner here! It’s a magical place with lush, verdant mountains, rippling cliffs, rainbow canyons, white sand beaches, and majestic waterfalls. It’s an outdoorsy person’s playground with so many different things to see.

The cheapest month to visit Hawaii is definitely February through May or September through mid-November. June through August is the peak season with the highest prices. You can find the best deals on plane tickets, hotels, and even souvenirs in the spring and fall. But also keep in mind that Hawaii experiences a second peak season from Thanksgiving through January . This is because of the holidays and whale migrating season.

So, What’s the Best Hawaiian Island for First-Time Visitors?

If you’re looking for the best Hawaii island for first-timers, I recommend either Oahu or Maui . Oahu offers tourist-friendly travel, attractions, stays, and experiences. Maui is great if you’re looking for a luxury resort experience with at least a day of exploring the rest of the island.

Molokai and Lanai are perfect for a ferry trip for the day but save these hidden treasures for future trips when you’re tired of the classic Hawaiian tourist experience! Both Big Island and Kauai offer exciting things to do that you can’t miss out on. Still, they may be a little trickier to navigate if you’re super new to the Hawaiian Islands. 

When you’re planning a trip to Hawaii for the first time, you want to take all the guesswork out. Book your hotel and plane, sit back, relax, and enjoy your big Hawaiian vacation!

Looking for more Hawaii Travel Resources? Check out my Hawaii island hopping guide , my Hawaii vacation planner for first-timers , best Hawaiian island for hiking , best time to visit Hawaii , how to explore Hawaii on a budget , and the biggest Hawaii mistakes to avoid !

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13 Tips for Visiting Hawaii for the First Time

Planning your first trip to hawaii travel bloggers share their biggest tips for what to do (and what not to do) to make the most of your first hawaiian vacation. scroll for all the tips before you travel to hawaii, this post about tips for your first trip to hawaii was written by hawaii travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Hawaii is truly one of the best vacation destinations in the United States. From the sandy beaches to the waterfall hikes to mouthwatering restaurants, Hawaii has it all!

If this is your first time to the islands , it can be a bit overwhelming.

So, I’ve asked some of my fellow travel bloggers to share their best advice for Hawaii trip first-timers .

These bloggers are seasoned travelers and want you to learn from their mistakes and their smart planning so you can plan your ultimate vacation to Hawaii.

Keep scrolling for all their tips for your first trip to Hawaii.

Find out my top Hawaii travel tips for planning a trip to Oahu , Maui , or Kauai !

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.

1. Stay on One Hawaiian Island

When people hear you are “going to Hawaii” for the first time, you will almost always get asked, “which islands are you visiting?”

In the past, when airfare was cheap and regulations were lax, it was easy to visit two or three different islands in a single week-long Hawaii vacation.

Today, however, you are better to decide which island you want to go to and enjoy that one, exploring its unique wonders, and then plan a return trip.

In many ways, Hawaii is a paradox. While it is a series of islands, people underestimate how big the state is as well as how big and diverse the individual islands are as well.

For instance, on a visit to “ The Big Island ,” you can experience a tropical jungle on the east side, an arid desert on the west, grasslands to the north, and some of the tallest mountains in the United States in the middle.

A similar diversity can be found on the other islands, both in terms of geography as well as culture, and food.

As a result, while “ island hopping ” might be a fun concept, there’s really no need to do it since you can visit one Hawaiian island and never see all of it even on a week-long Hawaiian vacation.

James Hill from Cruise West Coast

2. Try the Local Food When You Visit Hawaii for the First Time

When you visit Hawaii, you’ll want to try the local food. On my first visit to Hawaii, I quickly fell in love with poke.

This delicious dish consists of tuna or another type of seafood chopped up and marinated with spices, sauces, and vegetables. You can get a variety of poke, whether you’re looking for a spicy one or a sweeter poke.

You’ll never find fresher poke than when you’re visiting Hawaii, as many times the fish is caught that morning.

When I visited the Big Island , I stopped at Da Poke Brothers almost daily. You typically eat this with rice and sides like seaweed salad or macaroni salad.

I also recommend stopping at a small, local restaurant to try poke instead of eating it at a chain restaurant. You’ll get the experience of talking to the owners and learning more about the business that you’re supporting while on your Hawaii vacation.

Marissa Pedersen from Postcards to Seattle

3. Don’t Go to a Luau on Your First Night

For most first-time visitors to Hawaii, going to a luau is high on their bucket list! It’s a great opportunity to see parts of traditional Hawaiian culture and eat wonderful food.

Luau tickets aren’t cheap, so you’ll want to make the most of the experience.

One way to make sure you really enjoy your first luau is to schedule it for the end of your time in Hawaii.

No matter where you’re coming from, you’ll face a big time change when you go to Hawaii – 2-3 hours for west coasters and a whopping 5-6 hours for east coasters depending on the time of year!

Since most luaus don’t end until late at night, if you buy tickets for the beginning of your Hawaii vacation you’ll feel like a zombie before the first hula is over.

So do yourself a favor: plan your luau as a way to celebrate the end of your trip to Hawaii, not the beginning.

Melissa Conn from The Family Voyage

4. Use Reef Safe Sunscreen

When visiting Hawaii for the first time, one thing you’ll need to know is to use reef-safe sunscreen.

What is one of the very best things about visiting Hawaii? That amazing Pacific Ocean you get to swim in! The beautiful blue waters, colorful fish, sea turtles, and all of that coral reef that you find everywhere around the islands.

However, when you are snorkeling or scuba diving , you need to make sure to protect the reef by using the correct sunscreen.

Many sunscreens you buy and bring to Hawaii have an ingredient called oxybenzone in them, which is very harmful to the coral reef systems in Hawaii. The chemical bleaches the reefs, ridding them of their color, and sometimes die altogether.

Most sunscreens you can purchase on the islands are reef safe, however it is best to make sure. In addition, if you are on a scuba or snorkel excursion, many times they will offer reef safe sunscreen for free.

All in all, one of the best things you can do in Hawaii is get out into the water and see the beautiful coral reef. Just make sure that you are using reef safe sunscreen when you are getting into that beautiful water!

Zach & Julie Ruhl from Ruhls of the Road

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5. Research Beaches Before You Go

On your first trip to Hawaii, I’d be willing to bet that heading to the beach is at the very top of your agenda. And if you’re traveling to Hawaii with kids , I’m sure they can’t wait to play in the waves!

While beaches all over the islands can look peaceful and serene, it is imperative that you understand that Hawaii’s position in the ocean makes for unique and dangerous conditions.

Do some research before you get to the island to determine the most family-friendly beaches, and stick with those.

One of my personal favorites is Lydgate Beach on Kauai , with two protected swimming lagoons. Opt for lifeguarded beaches, and always check the beach warning signs when you get there.

It sounds great to just wander out and find a serene, secluded stretch of sand somewhere, but there are often hidden dangers that continental beaches just don’t have to contend with. This doesn’t just go for families with kids – adults need to be equally cautious!

Hawaiian beaches are incredible, and should absolutely be the first thing you do when you get to the island! But be smart about water safety and have a plan for where to swim.

Dani Ward from Diapers in Paradise

6. Always Check the Weather Before Hiking

Before going on any hike, it is very important to check the weather and floodplains. If there is a possibility of rain, look to see if your hike goes through a floodplain or crosses any rivers.

If it does, there is a chance for a rapid rise in water levels or water overflowing into the area you are hiking.

When visiting a friend on Oahu , we did a spur-of-the-moment hike and didn’t look to see if it would rain. Partway through our hike, we got caught in heavy downpour. We didn’t mind and decided to keep going.

Unfortunately, the rain didn’t stop and we didn’t realize how wide the rivers were that we needed to cross.

When we reached the first river, we didn’t think we were too far from the end and decided to cross instead of going back up and down the mountain, which we felt would be too dangerous since it had been raining heavily for hours by this point.

It was above our knees.  We soon reached the second river, which we could see rising rapidly from all the rain.

It was very scary and taught us to always check weather and floodplains before doing any hike.

Erin Tracy from Traveling Thru History

7. Do Your Own Circle Island Tour of Oahu

If you are visiting Hawaii and most likely Oahu for the first time, enjoy your visit to Honolulu and Waikiki and that part of paradise.

But if you really want to get a flavor of the entire island, go on a circle island tour . Or better yet, rent a car and do your own circle island tour, which is a fantastic way to experience the best and rest of the island.

On a tour, you can choose where you want to go, the attractions that appeal to you or just do a fantastic drive with coastal views and find some nice scenic spots along the way to enjoy and photograph.

You can visit popular attractions including Pearl Harbor , the Dole Plantation , Haleiwa , and the North Shore area with the Banzai pipeline, Sharks cove and into the gorgeous eastern coastlines.

Along the way there, you can visit the Mormon temple, Byodo-In Temple and the stunning beaches at Lanikai and Kailua beach . It’s up to you to pick and choose what you want to do and see.

For more inspiration, check out my tour of the North Shore of Oahu here for more images and popular things to do and see in the area.

Noel Morata from This Hawaii Life

8. Take a North Shore Tour

With just three days in Oahu, I was overwhelmed with the tens of things to see and do with so little time.

I wanted to see the best of Oahu’s North Shore without the hassle of renting a car, traffic, and parking.

Instead, I packed a dry bag with a bikini, snorkel set, and sturdy shoes and hopped on the Surf Bus, a small group tour that stops at a handful of places around Oahu rather than at every noteworthy destination.

Rather than being stuck on a bus all day, I had plenty of time to snorkel , hike , and go on a kayaking excursion. The day ended with a heaping pile of shave ice .  

A North Shore tour of Oahu with just a few stops is the best way to make the most of a short stay in Oahu.

Or, if you’re planning to stay a while, it’s best to do this tour at the beginning of your trip to Hawaii to get a feel for what parts of the island are worth venturing back to for full trips.

Chantae Reden from Chantae Was Here

9. Snorkel with Manta Rays

An absolute must-do activity when you visit Hawaii is to snorkel or dive with manta rays at night.   

Manta rays are enormous, with a wingspan of up to 29 feet! Seeing them is an amazing once-in-a-lifetime experience. 

Multiple boats leave from leave late every afternoon from Kailua-Kona on the Big Island . A nearby site has been set with enormous floodlights permanently mounted to the seabed in a large circle. 

As dusk turns to dark, the lights are turned on. The light attracts swarms of microscopic, invisible-to-the-eye plankton. 

Plankton are manta rays’ main food source, so their presence in turn attracts the mantas.  Divers sit around the circle of lights and snorkelers hold on to large rafts on the surface above them.   

Before long, enormous creatures swoop out of the darkness, mouth wide open to scoop up the plankton. They turn and twist and glide around above the lights, often just below the surface (and snorkelers). It is a truly incredible sight! 

Kids over the age of five can snorkel. Divers need to be certified. The site is open throughout the year, and although it is not guaranteed to see the manta rays, chances are good because of the lights/ plankton. Check out more Big Island Manta Ray snorkel tips.

James Ian from Travel Collecting

10. Hike to Papakolea Green Sand Beach On The Big Island

Papakolea Beach is a green sand beach located on the most southern point on the Big Island , Hawaii. With only three green sand beaches in the world and one being in Hawaii, it’s a great opportunity for a great adventure.

You can get to this beach by taking highway 11, to the road to South Point between mile marker 69 and 70 to the end where you’ll find a parking lot. You can park your car there. This is where your hiking experience will start.

The hike is about 2.8 miles and even though it can be hot, it’s a somewhat easy hike, my eight year old daughter had no problem doing it and you’ll witness some of the most beautiful landscapes.

There are drivers waiting at the beginning of the hike to take you all the way to the beach for a fee but driving there is illegal.

When you get there you have to climb down the cinder cone but don’t worry, it’s totally doable with children.

When you plan your hike, make sure you’ll have plenty of water, food/snacks, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat and appropriate attire since there are no shaded areas or any food vendors at the Green Beach.

This is a once in a lifetime venture for some people and you’ll be amazed by the beauty and the uniqueness of this gorgeous beach.

Patricia Martin from Travel Fam Life

11. Spend a Whole Day at The Polynesian Cultural Center when Visiting Hawaii for the First Time

Originally, I thought it was just a luau and show but, I learned that it is actually an all-day attraction.  There are villages located all around the center representing different islands in the Pacific.  At each location, there are arts, crafts, or shows.

We spent much of the day learning and laughing. Some of the shows are very funny and extremely entertaining.

Our favorite shows were the water show called Huki, which told a history of how the Polynesian Cultural Center was formed, and Ha Breath of life was another amazing show with fire twirlers!

We loved our time there and I know you will love it too!

Tip – When you purchase your ticket s make sure to upgrade to the luau. We made the mistake and ended up purchasing a buffet and didn’t realize it did not include the show.

Lisa Manderino from Planning Away

12. Volunteer with a Non-Profit

There is no shortage of amazing tours to enjoy in Hawaii. As a former sea kayak guide and SUP instructor at Kailua Beach Adventures on Oahu, I can wholeheartedly recommend that you rent a kayak or take a guided tour in the beautiful Kailua Bay!

However, beyond all of the sites to see and tours to take, I recommend that you do some research and find a local non-profit to give your time to. This is an amazing way to give back to the communities of Hawaii while digging into the local culture. Quite literally!

At Papahana Kuaola, you can sign-up for one of their many volunteer days to work in their taro patches and learn about the root vegetable that has been at the core of Hawaiian’s diets for centuries.

It’s incredibly refreshing to participate in something that is less transnational in nature and that exists to serve local communities.

Although these experiences may be seemingly less glamorous, the experiences in which I connect with locals and in the case of the taro patches – get my hands a little dirty – have been the ones that I remember most fondly. 

Hayley Spear from Hayley Sarah Blog

13. Go Ziplining when Visiting Hawaii for the First Time

Ziplining can be considered an extreme activity but once you have done it you are hooked (no pun intended). With so many options of tours and experiences to enjoy in Hawaii, it can be challenging to decide on which one to go for.

For our family, ziplining was on top of the list, as a matter of fact, this was my daughter’s favorite and since we had her with us we had to drive to Hilo and find a company that would allow kids.

It was totally worth the drive, not only to visit some of the sites on that side of the Island, but the company we chose was amazing. The staff was so attentive to my daughter, they even went tandem with her since she was very light for one of the long lines.

On our 4-hour zipline excursion, we got to zipline over a couple of waterfalls and some beautiful landscapes.

If ziplining is on your bucket list, Hawaii is definitely worth a try. Just don’t forget to book in advance since the choices of companies that allow kids are very limited. 

First Time to Hawaii FAQs

Usually, I recommend that first timers start off with a trip to Oahu. It’s the most popular Hawaiian island, as well as the cheapest. Plus there are tons of attractions, activities, great food, and shopping. That’s why I think it’s the best island to visit in Hawaii for the first time.

Are you hoping to save money in Hawaii? You can totally plan an affordable Hawaii vacation by traveling during shoulder season (mid-April to June and September to mid-December.) Plus, there are tons of free things to do in Hawaii.

Hawaii doesn’t participate in daylight savings time. So, they are 2-3 hours behind the West Coast, 3-4 hours behind Mountain Time, 4-5 hours behind Central Time, and 5-6 hours behind the East Coast.

You’ll definitely need I.D., and a passport (if you are traveling from outside the U.S.) And be sure to check to see if there are any Hawaii travel restrictions in place.

Before your trip to Hawaii, I suggested taking a look at my step-by-step Hawaii travel guide so you know exactly how to plan a trip to Hawaii. This is perfect for first-time visitors to Hawaii.

And be sure to explore the rest of this top Hawaii travel blog for all the best Hawaii guides and Hawaii travel tips!

Planning on visiting Hawaii for the first time ? Check out our detailed posts about Oahu , Maui , Kauai , Big Island , Molokai , and Lanai ! Plus, find out the best island to visit and the top things I wish I knew before going to Hawaii with kids.

Ready to plan your trip to hawaii.

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• Planning Your First Trip to Hawaii? Don’t Miss These Essential 3 Tips (and Mistakes To Avoid)

by Bryan Murphy | Jan 7, 2024

Traveling to Hawaii for the first time can be thrilling but also a bit overwhelming, with so  many islands to explore  and  local customs to understand .

This article is your guide, packed full of essential tips that every Hawaii first-timer should know – from choosing the right island based on your interests down to  avoiding common tourist mistakes .

• How Long Should Your First Trip to Hawaii Be?

The ideal duration for your first trip to Hawaii should be at least 10 days. This recommendation considers the adjustment period needed for the time change, which typically takes about three days.

A 10-day vacation allows ample time to acclimate, relax, and fully explore the unique experiences each Hawaiian island offers.

Planning Your Trip? Use Our Favorite Resources!

Key takeaways for your first trip to hawaii, best island to visit your first trip to hawaii, each island has a unique vibe, oahu offers a town and country experience, maui is best for first-time visitors, kauai is great for adventure seekers, the big island offers a sense of space, what to do around the hawaiian islands, travel tips for planning your visit to hawaii, book activities and restaurants in advance, learn about hawaiian and polynesian culture, common mistakes to avoid for your first time to hawaii, avoid stuffing your itinerary, not learning about the local culture, worrying too much about the weather, wrap-up for first time visitors to hawaii, faqs for planning your first trip to hawaii, 1. what should i know when visiting hawaii for the first time, 2. when is the best time to visit hawaii, 3. what is the best way around the island, 4. where should i stay during my trip, 5. what could go wrong on my first hawaiian vacation.

• 6. How do I enjoy my stay in Hawaii if it's my first experience?

7. What is the best island to visit in Hawaii for a first-time vacation to Hawaii?

8. what are the top beaches in hawaii for a family vacation, 9. what are some must-see attractions on the island of maui for first-time visitors, 10. what are some common mistakes to avoid when planning a trip to hawaii for the first time, 11. can you recommend a trip itinerary for first-time visitors to hawaii planning to visit two islands, 12. what are the best activities for first-time visitors to hawaii, 13. what are the best hawaiian islands for first-timers to experience the diversity of landscapes and attractions, 14. what are the best tips to help plan a successful trip to hawaii for first-time visitors, 15. what are some unique experiences to consider for a first-time vacation to hawaii, 16. can you recommend a family-friendly itinerary for a vacation to hawaii, recommended tours nearby (viator widget), enjoyed this post about planning your first trip to hawaii (pin it to save it), related posts.

Planning a trip to Hawaii? Join our Hawaii Travel Facebook Group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!

This first time in Hawaii post is written by Bryan Murphy , an expert in Hawaii travel and a top-rated podcast host. The post may contain affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you use the provided links. Learn more on my privacy policy page .

🏨 Accommodations: We recommend Expedia

✈️ Flights: For the cheapest flights, we use Skyscanner

🚗 Rental Car: We recommend Discount Hawaii Car Rental

🌋 Attractions: We recommend Get Your Guide

🌺 Luaus and Tours: We recommend Hawaii Tours

📱 Mobile Tour App: Our favorite is Shaka Guide

This guide is tailored for first-time visitors, offering crucial tips for choosing the right island, planning your itinerary, and immersing in the local culture.

From the urban allure of Oahu to the natural splendor of Maui and beyond, we’ll help you navigate the Hawaiian experience, ensuring your journey is as enriching as it is memorable.

Let’s dive into the heart of Hawaii and discover what makes each island uniquely captivating.

• Hawaii has many islands. Each one is different. Think about what you want from your trip before picking an island.
• Plan your trip well. Book fun things and places to eat ahead of time. Don’t try to do everything in one day. One of the best advice for first-timers is to take it slow and enjoy the beauty of every Hawaiian Island you visit.!
• Learn about the culture of Hawaii before you go there. Respect the local people and their customs.
• Don’t worry too much about the weather in Hawaii! It changes fast but doesn’t stay bad for long. Be ready for rain or sun on any day of your vacation.

Determining which island to visit is a crucial initial step in planning your Hawaiian vacation. Each island radiates its own unique charm – Oahu boasts a blend of town and country experiences.

Maui is typically recommended for first-time visitors due to its familiar amenities and multitude of activities, while Kauai caters to the adrenaline junkies with countless adventure opportunities.

Living true to its name, the Big Island of Hawaii offers ample space for exploration and leisurely vacationing. So before you book your tickets, weigh each location’s offerings against what you want out of your trip: relaxation or thrill-seeking adventures.

Urban attractions or untouched nature trails? Your preference will guide you towards the perfect Hawaiian escape tailored just for you.

RELATED PODCAST: Which Island to Visit

Hawaii is not just one place. It is a   chain of islands ,   each with its own feel .   Oahu has busy city streets and quiet country roads . Maui wows first-time visitors with great beaches and food.

Kauai thrills the heart with wild adventures. The Big Island lets you breathe in its wide open spaces. Every island you plan to visit in Hawaii has beautiful beaches and tasty food to try! Excellent options for first-timers.

So think about what you want most from your trip before picking an island to explore on your Hawaii vacation.

In the town part, you can see   tall buildings and busy streets . You can shop at top stores and eat at good restaurants. There are great places to hang out at night too. For history lovers, Pearl Harbor is on Oahu.

On the flip side, there’s the country experience too! Drive a short way from town and you will be in nature. The North Shore part of Oahu shows what Hawaii looked like long ago. There, big waves come onto sandy beaches, making it perfect for experienced surfers!

Visiting both parts gives you a mix of all that Hawaii offers on just one island! No need to island hop when time in Hawaii is precious vacation time.

Aloha Sign at the Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas. Credit: Bryan Murphy

Kauai is a dream spot for those who love adventure. It has many ways to have fun outside. You can   hike in the mountains   or   walk beside the ocean . From tall peaks to deep canyons, Kauai lets you see natural beauty up close.

If you enjoy nature and seeking thrills, Kauai is your top choice!

Credit: Bryan Murphy with Hawaii’s Best Travel

The Big Island of Hawaii gives you room to breathe. It’s bigger than all the other Hawaiian Islands put together! Here, you find   less crowding   and   more open areas . Clear waters surround the Big Island, making it   great for diving and snorkeling .

This island suits those who want   peace and quiet   on their trip. In Hawaii, you can also enjoy a sense of freedom, definitely a plus for first-timers.   lots of space around you .

For first-timers planning a trip to Hawaii, remember that careful arrangement is crucial for a seamless Hawaiian adventure.

Start by defining your bucket list items; think about what you’d love to experience in Hawaii. From witnessing the grandeur of an active volcano on the Big Island to surfing on Oahu’s iconic shores, identify your must-do activities.

Next, consider booking popular activities and restaurant reservations ahead of time, as prime slots fill up quickly. It’s important not to overstuff your itinerary; remember that it’s a vacation and downtime is crucial too!

Dedicate some time for spontaneous adventures or simply relaxing on a sand beach at sunset.

Moreover, immerse yourself in   Hawaiian culture   by learning about the local customs and traditions before you visit – it will enrich your trip immensely.

Don’t worry excessively about weather predictions as Hawaii has a tropical climate with good weather year around just keep some adaptability in case of rainfall or strong winds when planning outdoor activities.

RELATED PODCAST: How to Travel with Aloha

Going to Hawaii is fun. It’s important to plan. Here are a few tips:

• You should book your activities early on. This way, you can get the places you want.
• Some activities include   helicopter tours and snorkeling trips . Booking them early will save you from long lines.
• Luaus are a must-do  in Hawaii. Make sure to reserve your spot now!
• Don’t wait until the last minute to make restaurant plans, either.
• Popular eating spots fill up fast, especially during busy times.
• Restaurant reservations help ensure a great meal without a long wait.
• Booking ahead also helps with planning your day-to-day itinerary in Hawaii.

Do not forget the Hawaiian language ! The ʻokina is one special part of the Hawaiian language you should know about.

Visitors can learn from locals too! Many people confuse being a local with being Hawaiian – they are different things in Hawaii. Respect for these traditions is very important when you visit Hawaii.

When exploring Hawaii for the first time, some common blunders can disrupt your experience. Overstuffing your itinerary is a big pitfall – remember, you are on island time now, and relaxation is key.

Ignoring the local traditions and culture not only deprives you of an enriching experience but may also lead to unintentional disrespect.

Worrying too much about the weather could rob you of spontaneous delights –   Hawaiian climate   is unpredictable yet generally mild year-round.

Some first-time visitors   try to do too much   in Hawaii. They   pack their days with lots of activities . This can   make the trip stressful and rushed . Each island has its own charm that needs time to enjoy.

Trying to fit too many things into your trip will tire you out. Instead,   pick a few key sights or activities   that you really want to enjoy.

Spend time at the beach,   visit the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park , or learn about Hawaiian culture. If you plan well, you can have a great time without feeling rushed. Plus, this way gives you reasons to come back again for more fun in Hawaii!

So, particularly for first-timers, take it slow and soak in the beauty around you . Don’t race from beach to waterfall to volcano in a day! For first-timers, take it slow and enjoy each best Hawaiian Island individually!

Enjoy each spot and don’t rush through your list of places to visit. It’s better to fully enjoy fewer spots than rushing through many.

Hawaii is more than just sun and sand. It has a   rich local culture . Don’t skip learning about it on your first visit. Tourists often make this mistake.

The people who live in Hawaii are   not all “Hawaiian.”  This term only fits those with native Hawaiian blood. Be mindful of that fact when talking to locals.

Driving around the island? You should know the   local driving rules,   too! Always   let locals pass   if they want to drive faster.

Wildlife like turtles, dolphins, seals, or nenes may cross your path. But don’t touch them or get too close!

Touching coral can hurt them and taking lava rocks home is also a no-no in Hawaii!

RELATED PODCAST: Your First Trip to Hawaii

RELATED PODCAST: The Legend of Pele (Hawaiian goddess of volcanoes and fire)

Hawaii’s weather can change fast . But, don’t let this scare you away. Even if rain comes, it won’t stay long.  Each island in Hawaii has fun things to do in any weather type . The sun is often out and the sky turns bright again quickly after rain stops.

Don’t waste time always checking the forecast on your phone  during your trip! Instead, plan for some wet days and some dry days.  Pack a light jacket just in case . Enjoy every day of your Hawaiian vacation no matter what the clouds are doing!

If it’s your first time visiting Hawaii, the key to a memorable and satisfying trip lies in understanding and embracing the unique attributes of the four major islands.

Each island – Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island – offers distinct experiences, ensuring that your first Hawaiian adventure is as diverse and enriching as the islands themselves.

Your best bet is to carefully select the island that resonates most with your travel desires, whether it be for serene relaxation, cultural exploration, or adrenaline-fueled adventures.

Equally important are the travel tips and resources available to first-time visitors. From booking activities and dining in advance to understanding local customs and weather patterns, these insights ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.

Remember, Hawaii is more than just a destination; it’s an experience rich in culture, nature, and hospitality.

For anyone planning to visit Hawaii for the first time, embracing these aspects will not only enhance your trip but also leave you with lasting memories and a deep appreciation for the Hawaiian islands.

Whether you’re soaking up the sun on a pristine beach, exploring lush rainforests, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Hawaii promises an unforgettable first-time experience that beckons you to return.

When planning your first trip to Hawaii, you need to decide which island you want to visit. There are many islands in Hawaii, each with their own wonder.

The best time to visit Hawaii depends on what you’re looking for in your vacation. But there isn’t really a bad time as every season has its perks.

Renting a car in Hawaii can be one of the very best ways to explore not just one side but rest of the island too.

The “best places” really depend on what part of the Island you’re going and what’s most important for you, beach proximity or shopping facilities.

Like any travel plan, things may not always go smoothly during your first Hawaiian vacation such as difficulty in finding food that suits taste buds or getting lost while exploring new places.

6. How do I enjoy my stay in Hawaii if it’s my first experience?

To ensure this happens, tips like planning out your day ahead and using top hawaii travel guides will help keep everything smooth throughout your journey!

The best Hawaiian islands for first-time visitors include Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island of Hawaii. Each of these islands offers a unique experience and a variety of attractions for travelers.

Some of the top beaches in Hawaii for a family vacation are Waikiki Beach on Oahu, Kaanapali Beach on Maui, Poipu Beach on Kauai, and Hapuna Beach on the Big Island. These beaches offer safe swimming conditions and family-friendly amenities.

First-time visitors to Maui should not miss the Road to Hana, Haleakalā National Park, and the stunning beaches of Wailea and Kaanapali. Additionally, whale watching and exploring the lush rainforests are highly recommended activities.

Common mistakes to avoid when planning your first trip to Hawaii include overpacking, underestimating travel times between attractions, not booking activities in advance, and not considering the different climates and landscapes on each island.

A recommended trip itinerary for first-time visitors to Hawaii planning to visit two islands could include spending a few days exploring the attractions and beaches of Oahu, then traveling to Maui to experience the Road to Hana, beautiful beaches, and whale watching opportunities.

First-time visitors to Hawaii should consider activities such as snorkeling at Molokini Crater, visiting Pearl Harbor on Oahu, exploring the Na Pali Coast on Kauai, and taking a circle island tour on the Big Island. These activities offer unique experiences and breathtaking views.

For first-timers looking to experience the diverse landscapes and attractions of Hawaii, the Big Island and Maui are excellent choices. The Big Island offers volcanic landscapes, black sand beaches, and the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” while Maui boasts lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, and the iconic Road to Hana.

Some essential tips to help first-time visitors plan a successful trip to Hawaii are to research and book activities in advance, pack light and appropriately for the different climates, consider island hopping to experience multiple landscapes, and to budget for the cost of dining and activities in Hawaii.

Unique experiences for first-time travelers to Hawaii include watching the sunset from the top of Haleakalā on Maui, witnessing the natural beauty of Waimea Canyon on Kauai, and visiting the black sand beaches on the Big Island. Additionally, taking a helicopter tour over the islands offers a breathtaking perspective.

A family-friendly itinerary for a vacation to Hawaii could include spending time at Waikiki Beach on Oahu for swimming and water sports, exploring the Wailea and Kaanapali beaches on Maui, visiting the family-friendly attractions in Kauai such as the Fern Grotto and Wailua River, and enjoying the outdoor activities and attractions on the Big Island.

• Best Time to Visit Oahu and Waikiki: Crowds, Costs, and Weather in Hawaii (2024)

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• Best Time to Visit Maui, Hawaii: Your Guide for When to Travel to Maui (2024)

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• Best Time to Visit Kauai, Hawaii: Your Ultimate Guide to the Perfect Kauai Vacation (2024)

Bryan Murphy is the owner of Hawaii’s Best Travel and is a recognized authority on responsible travel to Hawaii. Combining years of on-ground experience with insights from the top-rated podcast, Hawaii’s Best, he connects with a broad online community, offering a richer, more responsible way to experience Hawaii.

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Aloha, we're Bryan Murphy and Ali Murphy, a family of five that loves exploring Hawaii. Through Hawaii's Best, we share our top places to visit, stay, and responsible travel. Learn Hawaiian culture and how to support local. With years of experience, we're known experts in responsible Hawaii travel. Listen to our top-rated podcast, " Hawaii’s Best Travel ," and join our free online community of Hawaii lovers. Learn More ->

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Best Time to Visit Hawaii

Top times of year to travel to hawaii for the best weather, lowest rates, top events, and fewest visitors.

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Kalalau Valley - Kauai

Best Times to travel to Hawaii?

Which month is best to go to hawaii, updated for travelers in 2024 through early 2025.

Whether you're looking to explore Hawaii's stunning beaches or discover more about the unique local culture, Hawaii is an amazing destination for any type of vacation. In this article, we'll explore the various months of the year and discuss which are the best times to visit Hawaii . We'll look at the climate, prices, and activities available in each month to help you decide when is the best time for you to experience the beautiful islands of Hawaii.

— article continued below —

2024 Hawaii Visitor Guides

Visiting Hawaii soon? Be sure to grab a copy of one of our updated Hawaii Visitor Guides .

~ Trusted by Millions of Hawaii Visitors Annually ~

Awini Trail beyond Pololu Valley on the Big Island

When's Best to Visit Hawaii TL;DR

Generally, the best time to visit Hawaii  for the most ideal  overall weather , lowest statewide rates , and the  fewest visitors on-island  is April and May during the spring and  September and October during the fall. Some refer to these times as Hawaii's 'off-season period' or 'shoulder months.'   In the summer, it will certainly be more crowded, so early June is best, and during the winter, though typically wetter, we recommend  January , especially if you want to see the humpback whales .

Hawaii Tips and details for each top month:

• April  - an excellent month, but avoid holidays when applicable
• May  - the best overall month for visitors, in our opinion. Great weather and reasonable rates
• September  - excellent month, great weather, perfect time for those seeking fewer visitors
• October  - great month, excellent selection of local festivals & events
• January - wetter than average , but an excellent time to go whale watching

Haven't decided which island(s) you're visiting? Take the quiz and read our companion article: Which Hawaii Island to Visit?

Honopu Valley on Kauai

If you're considering visiting Hawaii in the coming months, then we've got you covered...

• Check out our 'Best time to...' FAQ
• Hawaii Budget Calculator & Trip Cost Estimator
• TL;DR - skip directly to our  Best Month to Visit Hawaii Quiz →
• Explore Hawaii Hotel Rates by Season
• 2024 Hawaii Update: How the last few years  changed a lot...

Below we'll go over the latest on  each island's conditions , general  weather expectations , our  expected visitor demand , visitor  trends , and much more.

Kualoa Regional Park and Mokolii Island on Oahu

Ultimately, in our honest opinion - there isn't an inopportune time to go to Hawaii. Visiting Hawaii is a dream come true for many visitors, and who can blame them? The weather is fantastic nearly year-round, there's something to do for everyone , and the food is  phenomenal (try laulau , and malasadas , trust us!).

Below we'll cover more details about what makes this a great time, or not, to visit the Aloha State .

Totals by Island - 2022 vs 2023

Above, we've included an updated graphic comparing visitor arrivals to each major Hawaiian island for both 2022 and 2023. This bar chart provides a more accurate year-over-year comparison by aligning the time frames for both years. The impact of the wildfires on Maui is quite obvious in this chart. What we can say for certain is that  demand has softened some for early and mid 2024 to date, and the spring/summer 2024 travel season has seen fewer forward bookings than usual. Some experts predict this pattern to continue, especially on Maui for the foreseeable future.

What to Expect in 2024 through early 2025

Prices that have risen over the last two years will likely continue to  impact flight costs, hotel & accommodation rates, the costs associated with rental vehicles (Turo or standard rental agency), and other rates/fees due to increases in local electricity costs (Hawaii still generates a significant amount of its electricity from petroleum fuels). As of early 2024, Hawaii government leaders continue to debate additionally introducing a visitor or climate-impact fee that ranges from $25-$50 per traveler, but this has not been finalized yet. Increases to the accommodation tax, already the highest in the nation at up to 18%, are also not out of the question.

The devastating wildfires that affected West Maui in August 2023 are also continuing to impact Maui's economy at this time, and this will mean price swings, flight demand issues at times, and other factors to consider for those looking to visit the Valley Isle in the coming months. Lahaina remains closed and we urge all potential Maui visitors to be especially mindful and respectful in the islands as the community continues through this tragedy.

We'll keep you posted... this article will be updated accordingly as things change.

Nololu Trail Lookout in West Kauai

Estimated Monthly Visitors by Hawaii Island (2019 & 2022) - Click to enlarge

Hawaii 2024 Visitor Demand Forecast (Click to Enlarge)

How to Beat the Hawaii Crowds

When are periods of high and low demand.

To assist visitors with visualizing the periods of high and low demand in Hawaii, we've created the following  2024 Hawaii Demand Forecast . We'll also specifically discuss visiting during each month of the next year in more detail below. You can also now check out our initial  2025 Hawaii Demand Forecast   to see what we expect regarding high/low visitation periods in 2025.

These charts are an  approximate overview  of when we expect Hawaii to see increased visitation on-island, based on travel trends in Hawaii over the last several years (excluding 2020 & 2021) and considering recent events within Hawaii.

Hawaii Hotel Rates

Average accommodation prices.

As is to be expected, when more people are 'on-island' visiting the Hawaiian Islands - accommodation, rental, and flight costs will increase as well. To avoid the crowds and keep rates lower, you can always try visiting during non-peak visitation periods (i.e.; holidays and summer months are high-demand time periods). When preparing for your trip, the following graphic should help provide a general idea of the average rates during different times of the year. These rates fluctuate by island, but these figures still allow you to prepare accordingly.

The rates on the charts seen here are from a couple of years ago and will be updated once things settle from the pandemic, but generally should provide a good overview of pricing during various times of the year. Check out our new Hawaii Trip Cost Calculator tool for a more accurate estimate of exactly how much you can expect to spend on a Hawaii trip in 2024.

Generally, Oahu accommodation prices have remained relatively consistent with pre-pandemic rates heading into the winter/spring of 2024, but the outer-islands continue to see rate increases of 20-45% over pre-pandemic prices.

Hawaii Statewide Average Hotel Price Chart

Waikamoi Ridge Trail forest on Maui

Tunnels Beach on North Kauai

Kauai Average Lodging Price Chart

Oahu Average Lodging Price Chart

Maui Average Lodging Price Chart

Big Island Average Lodging Price Chart

Take our When to Visit Hawaii Quiz

Take our quick travel quiz to determine which month(s) are best for you based on your personal interests. Our quiz will generate a personalized page with suggestions tailored to you; including the top four months to travel to Hawaii!

Take our When to Visit Quiz Now

'Best Time to/for...' Hawaii FAQ

Seasonal events, when to book, finding the best rates, & more..., best time for good weather.

While Hawaii is a great destination year-round, the best opportunity for good weather exists during April, May, September, and October. As the tradewinds pick up over the winter months, so do the showers, and surf swells, particularly on the north/northeast (windward) shores of each island. The weather is warm year-round, with average highs in the winter of 78-82ºF (26-28ºC) and 83-88ºF (29-31ºC) in the summer months. Learn more about Hawaii weather .

Best Time to avoid crowds?

Hawaii has visitors during all months of the year, but typically, if you want to avoid the crowds , visit in either November (excluding Thanksgiving) or May for the quietest scene on the islands. Additionally, the first week of June, most of April (excluding ‘Golden Week’ and Easter), and much of September or October are great times to avoid the majority of visitors. Learn more about When to Travel to Hawaii .

Best Time to Book Hawaii Hotels?

As a rule of thumb, book early - no later than 2-3 months before you go! It's not uncommon for the Best Accommodations in Hawaii to get booked quickly, especially during the summer months over holidays. If you are planning to visit in either July or August and especially if you’re planning a visit around the Christmas/New Year’s holiday in late December, then we’d advise booking 4-6 months in advance to ensure you can reserve the room(s) you want. Be sure to check our Hotel Rates for the best prices and to compare all the top travel sites in one quick search.

Best Time to purchase Hawaii Airline Tickets?

As with accommodations, it’s best to typically book earlier than later. The best prices for Hawaii flights can vary dramatically throughout the year, depending on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, to find the best rates, we advise visitors to start searching for flights four months before your trip and to book no later than one month before your planned departure. Using this approach should provide you the best opportunity to find a good deal. If you are planning a visit during Thanksgiving, Christmas, or another holiday, we’d advise you book much earlier, as far in advance as possible to ensure the best price for what will undoubtedly be high-demand tickets during those peak periods.

Best Time to Find Deals & Discounts?

If you’re searching for the best rates when visiting Hawaii, we’d advise you to start your search for flights that arrive/depart in the middle of the week. Flying during the middle of the week will save you a lot of money, especially when flying from geographically further away. Generally, the most affordable rates for both flights and hotels in Hawaii will be primarily during the fall and somewhat so during the spring.

For accommodations, the months of September through November (sometimes into early December) offer the best hotel deals , again excluding Thanksgiving. In the spring, the best accommodation rates can be found from late March until early June (excluding the Easter holiday and Japan’s ‘Golden Week,’ in April).

For tours and activities, while many deals and specials will be ‘last-minute’ - the best discounts and specials run during the summer months (late May - July). Sign up for our Hawaii eNewsletter , a bi-weekly email containing travel tips, to also receive exclusive Hawaii discounts, deals, specials, and other promotional offers.

Best Time for Snorkeling, Swimming, and Diving?

Hawaii offers fantastic snorkeling, diving, and swimming opportunities for much of the year, but the best times are the summer months. During this period the surf will be less intense than during the winter, the water will be warmer, and the weather more cooperative - creating the perfect conditions for exploring in the water around the islands.

In our opinion, Maui snorkeling is the best you'll find in the entire state, followed by snorkeling on the Big Island . Both islands offer great snorkeling locations largely protected from surf and tradewinds on the leeward side of each island.

Best Time to ski or snowboard?

This isn’t a typo; you can ski and snowboard in Hawaii - though conditions will have to be just right. Mauna Kea , on the Big Island, means ‘white mountain’ in Hawaiian and its peaks are frequently found blanketed with a layer of snow. To provide yourself the best opportunity to partake in this winter sport, visit during February or March. Be sure to prepare accordingly, as there are limited facilities and you will need a 4x4 vehicle to reach the summit.

Best Time to take a cruise to/around Hawaii?

The best time to find a good bargain on cruises, including inter-island cruises, will be late November through mid-December. The best time for selection of boats will be in the spring (April/May) and fall (late August-October). Winter months are often more expensive (due to increased visitation), and typically wetter - but do offer the opportunity for whale watching (late November through early April).

Best Time to go Whale Watching?

Each winter, Humpback Whales migrate from Alaska to the warm waters surrounding Hawaii to mate and give birth to their calves. The best opportunities for whale watching will be from late November through mid-April; February and March often provide the best opportunities for sightings.

Best Time to get married/have a destination wedding?

As noted in the weather question, to avoid the wettest weather, try and plan your wedding for the summer months; anytime from late April until late October is usually a pretty safe bet. The middle of the summer will be warmer but is also typically the driest. Hurricane season runs from June through November as well, but storms are historically rare events. Ultimately, all factors considered - the best month for a destination wedding in Hawaii is in May.

Best Time for Hiking?

Hawaii offers some of the best hiking in the world if we may say so ourselves; a hiker could probably traverse Kauai’s trails alone for years and never get bored. As with most things in Hawaii, the hiking is excellent year-round, but the best months for hitting the trails are during the late spring and early fall (April, May, September, and October). The weather will be drier during these months, as well as throughout the entire summer, but unlike the summer, these spring/fall months will also be cooler. Be sure to take plenty of water and sunscreen before you head out, as the UV is very high in Hawaii year-round. If you hike during the winter months, be prepared for showers and trail conditions to potentially be messier / less maintained.

Best Time to visit Kilauea Volcano or go stargazing on Mauna Kea?

The Big Island’s Kilauea volcano has erupted almost continuously since 1983, sometimes more spectacularly than at other times. While there isn’t a ‘best time’ to witness something controlled by geologic forces, especially given the unpredictable nature of the volcano; if you’re planning to hike around the volcano or within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park , we’d advise the same as we did in our hiking question - visit during the spring or fall when it’s not at hot, and the weather will be cooperative. The summer will often be too warm to hike anywhere near the older black lava flows.

On the other hand, if you’re heading to the summit of Mauna Kea for some stargazing, then the summer months are best due to the same warmer temperatures. The peaks of Mauna Kea can become downright frigid at night, especially during the winter months. Remember, a full moon will offer the best opportunities for clear stargazing, and be sure to prepare accordingly before heading to the summit.

Best Time to go Fishing?

Fishing is another activity that can be partaken year-round, as different species of fish will bite at different times of the year and off the coast of each unique island. Summer tends to be one of the most popular periods for fishing - offering marlin (blue and yellowfin), skipjack, and ono. Fall and spring both offer good marlin and mahi-mahi fishing. Winter months are best for catching snapper, skipjack, tuna, and striped marlin. If you're visiting Maui, we recommend Fish Maui .

Best Time to Surf, Bodyboard, or Paddleboard(SUP)?

The best time for water activities like surfing and bodyboarding will be during the winter months. The biggest waves, for professionals, will be on the north shore. For the rest of us non-pros, the south coast is best during the winter. During the summer and fall (May - September), the waves will be calmer on the north shore of each island - so all skill levels can partake.

For other water sports like paddleboarding, we like the spring and fall the best, but this again can be a year-round activity if you select the right location(s) based on the time of year you visit.

Best Time for local festivals and events?

The best time to visit for island festivals and events depends on what you're looking for during your visit. ' Merrie Monarch ,' also known as the Olympics of Hula , is held in Hilo on the Big Island every April. Over on Oahu, you can catch the 'Waikiki Spam Jam,' also usually held in April. The ' Aloha Festivals ' takes place on all the islands each year in late September.

King Kamehameha Day (June 11) and Lei Day (May 1) also both offer various festivities, including impressive lei draping ceremonies of the King Kamehameha Statutes on both the Big Island and Oahu. Check our Hawaii events page for more information on what might be taking place during your visit.

Wailua Falls on Maui

Makalawena Beach on the Big Island

Hawaii Driving Tour Apps

Location-Based Applications

It's like having a tour guide in your car! Listen to stories, legends, history, and what to do and see, at the right place and time.

Shaka Guide uses your GPS to guide you to interesting places along the way on each of the main Hawaiian islands. Automatic audio tours with turn-by-turn directions mean all you need to do is to turn on the tour and drive. Check out driving Tours for Circle Island Oahu, North Shore Kauai, and Waimea Canyon & Na Pali Coast.

Island Driving Tours - App

Hawaii Flight Times

Airline Costs & Flight Rates

This section will be updated once more information is available and the airline industry has had a chance to return to some sense of normalcy. Currently, rates are still competitive airline to airline and demand fairly strong.

The recently announced (potential) merger between Hawaiian and Alaska airlines will have implications on Hawaii travel; we'll touch more on that as the merger process evolves.

Demand for Maui flights will vary as the island recovers from the devastating wildfires in August 2023.

As a general rule, we continue to advise travelers to book their flights well in advance of their trip.

Hawaii Weather

What to expect - rain & temperatures, hawaii weather summary, high/low temperatures & monthly precipitation.

*Climate Notes: Weather and Climate numbers are aggregated from trusted weather sources providing the monthly temperature and precipitation figures for each island's primary airport. These airports collectively provide a solid statewide estimate of weather conditions, but should not be taken as a "whole-island" forecast. Weather conditions can change dramatically within Hawaii and on each island due to the diverse topography, changes in elevation, the trade winds, and other unique island conditions. Temperatures are provided in Fahrenheit and Precipitation in Inches. Travelers can additionally view more information about each island: Kauai | Oahu | Maui | Big Island

Hawaii Statewide Weather (click to enlarge)

Hawaii weather can often be about as sporadic as it gets, and as such, forecasting the weather on Hawaii can be both daunting and confusing to first-time visitors. 

The tropical climate makes you quickly realize, 'this isn't the mainland,' and the environment takes some getting used to.

We encourage all visitors to check out our Hawaii Weather page, but here are a few quick pointers on Hawaii's weather to summarize:

• Read up on the forecasts at the  University of Hawaii Weather  before you visit and during your stay, as they have the best and most accurate estimates on the islands.
• Don't listen to the Weather Channel or watch the NOAA forecast graphs, of course, they'll predict rain - it technically rains almost every day in Hawaii... for about 10 minutes at a time.
• The only time it's really wet in Hawaii for a prolonged time is during the winter months, usually from November until March. But it's not a wash by any means.
• Temperatures at sea level usually run about 76-85 °F (24-29 °C)  all year-round. Temperatures at night are typically 12-18 °F (3-4 °C) cooler, but this can change dramatically depending on your altitude.
• Speaking of altitude, if you're planning to go up to higher elevations on either Maui or the Big Island, bring a small coat and long convertible pants. It can get very cold at the summit of the larger volcanoes!
• Hurricanes in Hawaii are historically rare events, but the last few seasons have seen increased tropical activity, and several tropical storms come close to the islands. If you're visiting during Hawaii Hurricane Season (June 1 - November 30th in the Central Pacific), then we advise you keep an eye on the tropics before your visit. Visitors may want to bookmark the Central Pacific Hurricane Center website for future reference.

 Ultimately, don't fret about the weather, it's Hawaii! Showers are typically short-lived and sporadic, and the temperature is almost always just right.

Hiking Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail on Oahu

Hawaiian Island Updates

Things to know for each island.

When planning your trip, there are a few things to keep in mind for each Hawaiian island, in addition to our Hawaii Essential Things to Know . Below we've made note of the most significant events and/or dates that may affect each island during your visit.

Best time to Visit Kauai

The best months to visit Kauai are in April , May , August , September , or October .  The weather on Kauai is consistently warm (highs in the mid-70's to mid-80's °F [24-29 °C]) year-round and visitors will enjoy the driest weather on the south shore and western portions of the island. Annual events include the May Day Festival (May) and Eo E Emalani I Alakai Festival (October) and the Chocolate & Coffee Festival (October).

For more information, be sure to read our Best Time to Visit Kauai article.

Best time to Visit Oahu

Oahu is a great island to visit at any time of the year. Still, if you especially want to dodge the crowds (on this most populous Hawaiian Island) - then the best months to visit Oahu are in May or later in the Fall (September and October are both great choices). Both times offer better rates on the island but still have fantastic weather conditions. Also, be sure to note that the last week of April is also 'Golden Week' in Japan - which can generate a large influx of Japanese visitors during that period. Other annual events on Oahu that draw international crowds include the Honolulu Marathon (December) and the Hawaii International Film Festival (October). 

For more information, be sure to read our Best Time to Visit Oahu article.

Best time to Visit Maui

The best months to visit Maui are in April , May , September , or October . If you’re visiting for whale watching, February is a good choice for peak season activity.  Travelers looking for the best deals on Maui accommodations should also seek out travel periods in the spring and fall, as they will be the cheapest months to visit due to decreased demand. As far as events,   Whale watching increases visitation starting in November and continues until the spring. Weatherwise, Maui temperatures remain consistently warm with daytime highs in the 75-85 °F [24-29 °C] range during the summer and winter, respectively. If you're heading to the summit of Haleakala, be sure to bundle up accordingly as it gets quite cold atop the volcano. 

For more information, be sure to read our Best Time to Visit Maui article.

Best time to Visit Big Island

The best months to visit the Big Island are May , August , or September for the best combination of great weather, low rates, and fewer visitors. Weather on the Big Island, like the other islands, stays consistently warm year-round. The main thing to note weather-wise is the differences between the Hilo (wetter and cooler eastern windward side) and Kailua-Kona (drier and warmer western leeward side). Annual events that generate an influx of visitors are the Merrie Monarch Festival (around Easter Sunday) and the Ironman competition (Kona side, typically in October). 

For more information, be sure to read our Best Time to Visit the Big Island of Hawaii  article.

In summary, as you prepare for your trip - remember to check local calendars for events, review the status of the parks and locations you'd like to visit, prepare and pack the proper travel supplies  for the island(s) you're visiting, and make sure not to worry too much about the weather; Hawaii is known as "paradise" for a good reason.

Ultimately, the Best Time to visit Hawaii is when you choose to go! If you still can't decide exactly when to go, no problem - try our quiz  linked below, and we'll suggest four months we think are best for you. We hope you have a great trip! Aloha!

Akaka Falls on the Big Island of Hawaii

Which Month to Visit?

Detailed monthly overview.

To assist visitors further, we've broken each month out in detail. If you want to find out quickly (TL;DR) which months are best for you - skip down to our Best Month to Visit Hawaii Quiz below.

2024 Hawaii Budget Calculator

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Finally, consider a few last potential costs and fees for your trip. There's dining (we've included gratuity in the estimates), and we've selected all three meal options by default. Then, there are potential fees for parks and other attractions, which are a relatively new factor to now consider when estimating a Hawaii budget; select the applicable options below. Finally, select the amount, if any, you expect to spend on Hawaii Tours and/or commercial Activities. Be sure to update the number of people dining and people the fees/tours apply to if applicable; these numbers will default to the same number of people you selected previously for this trip estimate.

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Your First Trip to Hawaii? Tips and Tricks for an Epic Vacation!

Posted on Published: June 4, 2023  - Last updated: July 26, 2023

• Taking your first trip to Hawaii? Find out which island is best for your first time in Hawaii, where to eat, where to stay, things to do on your first trip to Hawaii, and more!

Our first trip to Hawaii was epic. Seriously, what an incredible vacation! Hawaii, while it has gorgeous beaches, is so much more than a beach vacation. From hiking, to volcanoes, to wildlife, to sunsets, and more, there are so many things you can do for your first time in Hawaii .

Build the type of first time to Hawaii vacation that fits you! This post includes details about the Road to Hana, viewing Green Sea Turtles, coffee farm tours, Hawaiian historical locations, and more. I’ll give you tips on what to do and where to eat, along with a detailed Big Island and Maui itinerary.

Disclosure: This page includes affiliate links.

First Trip to Hawaii

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For our first trip to Hawaii, we decided to visit Maui and the Big Island. In this post, I’ll explain why we chose these two islands – and why we chose two islands versus one – for our first trip to Hawaii.

Planning your first Hawaii vacation can be overwhelming because you are:

• unfamiliar with the size of the island,
• unsure how long it takes to travel around the island, and
• don’t know which things to do in Hawaii.

I’ll discuss how our first Hawaii trip went, what we learned, and what we would do differently next time. No matter what you decide, don’t stress, because I can assure you it will be an incredible vacation! Hawaii is beautiful, exciting, and relaxing – no matter exactly which things you decide to do.

Best Island to Visit in Hawaii for First Time

Prior to booking our trip, we researched which Hawaiian island is best for first-time visitors. To start, its best to understand the highlights of each island.

The Big Island is the largest Hawaiian island (hence, its nickname!). Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park is located on the island which includes two of the most active volcanoes in the world (Kīlauea and Mauna Loa).

Hawaii Island is know for diverse geography and climates, including: snow-capped mountains, black sand beaches, and lush rainforests. The Big Island also features the Kona coast, which is home to hundreds of coffee farms (several which offer kona coffee tours ).

Maui is known for beautiful beaches, snorkeling, whale-watching, and the epic Road to Hana. It’s also home to the Old Lāhainā Lūʻau , which is consistently rated as one of the most authentic luaus in Hawaii.

Haleakalā National Park is located on Maui, which features a dormant volcano summit that offers an incredible sunrise and stargazing.

Oahu is home to Honolulu which is the largest city and capital of Hawaii. This island is known for the Pearl Harbor National Memorial and the Polynesian Cultural Center .

Oahu is also home to one of the most famous beaches in the world, Waikiki Beach. With Diamond Head set in the background, this beach is iconic for panoramic views, celebrity sightings, and surfing.

Kauai is the least-developed of the 4 most commonly visited islands (Hawaii, Maui, Oahu, and Kauai). It offers a more rural, secluded experience; with lush greenery and beautiful waterfalls.

The rugged Na Pali Coast is only accessible by boat, helicopter, or foot. Since 97% of the land is undeveloped , it offers some of the most advanced hiking trails in the state.

Molokai is a quiet island with no name-brand lodging options and no direct flight from the continental US. Therefore, the island is less popular with tourists and known for offering an authentic Hawaiian experience.

Lanai is an expensive, small island with luxury resorts and secluded beaches. Like Molokai, there are no direct flights from the continental US.

For most first-time Hawaii visitors, Big Island, Maui, Oahu, or Kuaui are going to be better options than Molokai and Lanai (due to accessibility and price).

We skipped Oahu (though it is a popular first-time visit choice), because we weren’t particularly interested in the big city vibe of Honolulu. We live in a city and drive to cities for weekend trips trips (such as Cincinnati and Columbus). On this trip, we wanted to experience the remoteness of Hawaii .

While Kauai sounded beautiful and secluded, we were particularly interested in the Road to Hana and visiting the National Parks (and especially, seeing an active volcano with possible lava flow). Therefore, we selected Maui and Big Island for a first trip to Hawaii .

One island is plenty for a first time trip to Hawaii. There is enough to do on either Maui or the Big Island to keep you busy for an entire week.

However, two of our top things to do were on separate islands: Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park (Big Island) and the Road to Hana (Maui). Therefore, we visited two islands in order to hit our two highest priorities.

While one island is just fine, it’s also very manageable to visit two islands. I was concerned we’d feel rushed or wish we’d stuck to one, but that wasn’t the case at all. I’m so glad we visited both Big Island and Maui. Plus, the tiny “island hopper” plane was an adventure all in itself.

In the rest of this post, I’ll explain how we broke up our time between Maui and the Big Island, including where to stay, things to do, places to eat, and a detailed itinerary for each island.

Most people stay in either west or south Maui. West Maui includes the towns of Lahaina, Kaanapali, Honokowai, and Kapalua. South Maui includes the towns of Kihei, Wailea, Makena, and Maalaea.

You could also choose to stay along the Road to Hana or in Kahului (near the airport), but this is the wetter side of the island. West and South Maui are dryer and sunnier.

For our first trip to Hawaii, we chose Kihei primarily due to budget and location. Kihei is less expensive than some of the other options, and a nice, central location. It was about a half hour drive to the Road to Hana, the airport, and Lahaina town (where the Old Lāhainā Lūʻau is located). Our ocean view hotel was steps from the ocean for morning and evening walks in the sand.

5 Things to Do in Maui

While it is most popular as a sunrise destination , sunset is also a spectacular view. We decided to visit the summit at Haleakala for sunset on the evening of our arrival. After a quick bite to eat near the airport, we took the 1.5-2 hour drive to Haleakala. Literally above the clouds at 10,023 ft, the views are incredible and it was the perfect way to start our Hawaii vacation.

Download the Shaka app and purchase a Road to Hana tour (we did Road to Hana and the backside loop). Leave early and drive to Paia town to grab a quick snack or breakfast, before you embark on the Road to Hana. We chose Cafe Mambo for coffee and a smoothie.

If you’ve got kids, take a road trip scavenger hunt to entertain them on the way. They’ll be plenty of stops along the way, but a game will help keep them engaged during the longer stretches of driving.

Below, I’ve listed each stop we made along the Road to Hana. The Shaka app will suggest even more stops, but you’ll have to pass up some Road to Hana stops if you’ve only got one day for the drive . Do not skip the Road to Hana, it is a must-do if you are in Maui for your first trip to Hawaii.

Road to Hana Things to Do (pictures of each stop, labeled below)

• Bamboo Forest and Na’ili’ili-haele Falls – Short hike through bamboo to waterfalls (now closed).
• Nua’ailua Bay Scenic Viewpoint – Roadside scenic viewpoint.
• Ke‘anae Peninsula – Old Hawaiian village with taro fields and a historic lava rock church.
• Ching’s Pond – Swimming hole with cliff jumping.
• Ke‘anae Peninsula Overlook – Roadside overlook of Ke‘anae Peninsula.
• Halfway to Hana – Quick stop that is popular for banana bread and shaved ice.
• Waikani Falls (3 Bears) – A set of 3 waterfalls visible from the road.
• Lower Puohokamoa Falls – Incredible 200 ft waterfall.
• Wai’anapanapa State Park – Black sand beach set along dramatic volcanic coastline.
• Backside of Road to Hana – Remote drive along the coast with dirt roads and cliffs.
• ‘Ohe‘o Gulch – Also called “Seven Sacred Pools” and part of Haleakalā National Park.

The Kihei Craft Fair is an open-air market on Kihei Rd. We made a quick stop to purchase souvenirs and check out goods made by local artisans . You can grab shaved ice here, too.

Can you take a first trip to Hawaii without going to a luau? Of course not. A luau is a must-do for your first time in Hawaii! The Old Lāhainā Lūʻau is not only the highest rated Maui luau, it is also one of the highest rated in the entire state.

Known for its authenticity, we got dressed up and really enjoyed this luau, all with the sun setting in the background.

A state monument, ‘Īao Valley is located in rainforest . This state park includes a botanical garden and 0.6 mile walk to view the ʻIao Needle . The ʻIao Needle is a 1200 foot tall natural feature which rises up from the valley floor.

1. Da Kitchen – We liked it so much that we ate there twice! It appears the Kahului location has closed, but there is a new location in Kihei.

2. Cafe Mambo – This cafe was bustling for breakfast, but we only grabbed a coffee and smoothie to go for the Road to Hana.

3. Nalu’s South Shore Grill – After a long day on the Road to Hana and the backside loop, we ate a late dinner with live music at Nalu’s.

4. South Shore Tiki Lounge – A lover of tiki decor , I had to check out this tiki lounge. My husband and I both enjoyed the casual vibe, outdoor seating, and the food.

5. Akami Coffee Co. – This clean, bright, modern aesthetic coffee shop has locally grown coffee and great reviews.

• 2:00 PM – Arrive in Maui and Pickup Rental Car
• 4:00 PM – Early Dinner at Da Kitchen
• 5:00 PM – Head to Haleakala Summit for Sunset
• 7:30 PM – Sunset
• 8:00 PM – Head to Hotel (Kihei)
• 7:00 AM – Continental Breakfast at Hotel
• 7:30 AM – Leave for Paia Town / Road to Hana
• 8:00 AM – Arrive in Paia Town, Get Coffee and a Smoothie
• 8:30 AM – Travel Road to Hana
• 9:00 PM – Late Dinner at Nalu’s South Shore Grill
• Morning – Rest and Relax at Hotel
• 1:00 PM – Lunch at South Shore Tiki Lounge
• 2:00 PM – Coffee at Akami Coffee Co.
• 2:30 PM – Kihei Craft Fair for Souvenirs
• 3:30 PM – Return to Hotel, Get Dressed for Luau
• 5:45 PM – Old Lāhainā Lūʻau
• 8:45 PM – Head Back to Hotel
• Morning – Walk Kihei Beach, Pack, Checkout
• 12:30 PM – ‘Īao Valley
• 2:30 PM – Late Lunch at Da Kitchen
• 6:00 PM – Fly to the Big Island
• 7:30 PM – Arrive in Kailua-Kona, Pickup Rental, Head to Condo
• 9:00 PM – Late Dinner at Foster’s Kitchen

Visitors typically choose to stay on the Kona side (east) or Hilo side (west) of Hawaii Island. The Hilo side is wetter, full of waterfalls, and closer to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park . The Kona side is dryer, sunnier, and has better beaches than the west side of the island.

For our first trip to Hawaii, we chose Kailua-Kona on the Kona side due to the drier weather and sunshine. I didn’t spend time in Hilo, so I can’t speak to the town’s vibe; but I absolutely loved the walkability and atmosphere in Kailua-Kona.

10 Things to Do on the Big Island

We visited the Ali’i Garden Market Place on our first full day in Kailua-Kona. Since we had traveled from Maui the evening before, this was a relaxing morning with shopping, coffee, and lunch all available at the market . A great spot to start the day!

Download the Shaka app and purchase the Kona Coast tour . This leisurely drive along the coast offers incredible views, Big Island history, bee farms, and architectural points of interest . Below, I’ve listed each stop we made along the Kona Coast.

Kona Coast Things to Do (pictures of each stop, labeled below)

• End of the World – Short walk to 30ft cliffs along the ocean (popular for cliff-jumping).
• Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park – Site of the Captain Cook monument and a popular bay for snorkeling.
• Big Island Bees – Bee farm tours and honey tastings.
• Painted Church – Historic church on the hillside with painted walls and ceilings.
• Monago Hotel – Hotel built in 1917 on the slopes of Mauna Loa overlooking Kealakekua Bay.

Downtown Kailua-Kona is easily walkable, filled with restaurants, bars, coffee shops, food trucks, shops, and more . We spent several evenings and an afternoon exploring the area.

Snorkeling was on our list of possible things to do in Hawaii, but we didn’t book the excursion until after we arrived. We popped into a booth along the sidewalks in Kailua-Kona and booked a half-day snorkeling catamaran tour (with lunch included).

The ocean air, boat ride, clear waters, and scenic views were incredible . The snorkeling and fish were interesting, but there may be better spots to snorkel ( such as Kealakekua Bay ).

This was an interesting activity, to say the least. We drove to the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Center for stargazing , leaving our hotel around 5:30 pm (sunset was around 7:00 pm). The visitor center is at 9000 ft elevation and you can only drive beyond that point with four-wheel drive (plus, safety awareness related to the drop in atmospheric pressure and oxygen ).

Therefore, our plan was to drive to the visitor center, stargaze, and then head back. Unfortunately, it was a cloudy evening on the mountain (you can see the clouds setting in above the Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area . After we returned to the base of Mauna Kea, away from the clouds, the clear sky was filled with stars .

At the visitor center, it was uncomfortably cold and windy. Paired with the darkness, the wind was quite unnerving. We spent about 15 minutes (mostly sitting in our car because walking was made difficult by the wind), before we decided to make the descent back down Mauna Kea.

All that being said, the drive to Mauna Kea was peaceful and beautiful as we watched the sun setting over the Hawaiian landscape .

The national park is a bit of a drive from Kailua-Kona, but don’t skip it. The scenery is other-worldly and well worth the trip. The wide array of terrains and climates in a Hawaii is what most amazed us on our first trip to Hawaii.

Download the Shaka app and purchase the South Island Epic Coastal Journey which will include a few stops along the way to the national park (such as a coffee farm and black sand beach). Pair that tour with the Volcanoes National Park tour , and switch to it when you arrive at the park entrance.

Once you enter the park, there are plenty of sites to see. Below, I’ve listed several things to do in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park .

Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park Things to Do (pictures of each stop, labeled below)

• Lava Tree Molds – Quick stop, with parking, near the entrance of the park.
• Kilauea Visitor Center – Stop in for bathrooms, an overview of the park, and trail maps.
• Sulphur Banks Trail – Easy, flat, 1.2 mile round-trip on raised boardwalk through sulphur banks.
• Kilauea Overlook & Steam Vents – Massive. Photos do not do Kīlauea caldera justice. Near the overlook are many steam vents.
• Kīlauea Iki Trail – Moderate to challenging hike with a 400 ft descent into an incredible, scenic, other-worldly crater – a highlight of our entire trip . There are several ways to do the Kīlauea Iki hike (as a loop, adding on Thurston Lava Tube, etc.). We chose the out-and-back option which travels from the Kīlauea Iki Trailhead, down into the crater, and then back up to the trailhead.

One of the most famous black sand beaches in Hawaii, Punalu’u is a great stop to make between Kailua-Kona and Volcanoes National Park. Any first-time visit to Hawaii must include a visit to an iconic black sand beach.

Pack a snack or early lunch with a blanket, and enjoy the scenery. You might see some Green Sea Turtles, too!

Like Punalu’u, the Ka’u Coffee Mill is a great pit stop between Kailua-Kona and Volcanoes National Park . We had enough time to take the short 20-minute free tour to learn about how they produce their version of the famous Kona Coast coffee bean.

Located side-by-side, the Kailua Pier and small Kamakahonu Beach are a great spot for a short afternoon swim or wade in the water. Right off the beach is a restaurant (attached to the Marriott ) and a surf shack to rent kayaks, paddle boards, and more. Plus, it’s nestled right in downtown Kailua-Kona with food, drinks, and shops only steps from the beach.

If you like visiting historical buildings, take the short walk over to Hulihe‘e Palace . Formerly the vacation home of Hawaiian royalty, it now houses a museum and gift shop ran by the Daughters of Hawai‘i . We didn’t take the tour, but popped into the gift shop and walked the grounds of this historic property.

Hale Halawai Park is a simple beachfront park located right in downtown Kailua-Kona. Along with being a nice walk and pretty views, we saw Green Sea Turtles along the rocks each time we were in the park. Viewing Green Sea Turtles in their natural habitat is another must-do for your first trip to Hawaii.

1. Foster’s Kitchen – We ate here for our first evening in Kailua-Kona. The food was delicious, and the seating, right on the ocean, was the perfect intro to this seaside town full of shops, restaurants, and bars.

2. Keoki’s Ono Fish and Chips – This fish and chips joint with lovely garden seating in the back, appears to have closed.

3. Daylight Mind Coffee Company – We had coffee and brunch at this expansive restaurant with plenty of seating (located right on the ocean). Everything was delicious, but unfortunately it appears to be permanently closed.

4. Coffee Shack – This quaint little coffee shop has incredible views, due to its location on the hillside, overlooking the coast.

Big Island Itinerary (3.5 Days)

• Morning – Rest and Relax at Condo
• 11:00 AM – Lunch at All’i Garden Market Place
• 12 Noon – Explore Kona Coast
• 1:00 PM – End of the World
• 2:00 PM – Kealakekua Bay
• 2:30 – Big Island Bees
• 4:00 PM – Painted Church
• 4:30 PM – Monago Hotel
• 5:00 PM – Dinner at Ono Fish and Chips
• Evening – Walk Kailua-Kona Downtown, Coffee at Daylight Mind
• 8:00 AM – Body Glove Snorkeling (lunch included)
• 1:00 PM – Rest at Hotel
• 5:30 PM – Head to Mauna Kea for Stargazing
• 7:00 PM – Arrive at Base of Mauna Kea for Ascent
• 9:30 AM – Travel to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park
• 10:00 AM – End of the World
• 11:00 AM – Coffee Shack
• 12:30 – Ka’u Coffee Mill
• 1:30 PM – Punalu’u Black Sand Beach
• 3:00 PM – Tree Molds at Volcanoes National Park
• 3:30 PM – Kilauea Visitor Center at Volcanoes National Park
• 4:00 PM – Sulphur Banks Trail at Volcanoes National Park
• 4:30 PM – Kilauea & Steam Vents at Volcanoes National Park
• 5:30 PM – Kīlauea Iki Trail
• 9:30 PM – Late Dinner in Kailua-Kona Downtown
• 11:30 AM – Kailua Pier and Kamakahonu Beach
• 12:30 PM – Hale Halawai Park
• 1:30 PM – Lunch and Coffee at Daylight Mind
• 6:00 PM – Head to Airport

If you liked these Hawaii travel ideas, you might also like:

• 8 Free Hawaiian Art Prints for Your Home
• How to Make a DIY Travel Map
• 20+ Tiki Decor Ideas (inspired by Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room)
• The 15 Best National Park Posters for Your Home

The Best Time to Visit Hawaii for Perfect Weather and Low Prices

H awaii has long held a spot on travelers' bucket lists and enjoys popularity among honeymooners—and for good reason. With its year-round balmy weather and tropical island vibes, you might say the best time to visit Hawaii is anytime. The archipelago has attracted travelers for generations, well before it joined the United States in 1959 to become the country's 50th state. Its golden-sand beaches, dramatic coastlines, active volcanoes, flowing waterfalls, lush rainforests, historic sites, all-inclusive Hawaiian resorts , vibrant culture and aloha spirit attract visitors all year long.

Hawaii is unlike any other state in that it spans nearly 11,000 square miles and is made up of 132 islands, six of which welcome visitors: the Island of Hawaii, Kauai, Lanai, Maui, Molokai and Oahu. Traveling between the Hawaiian islands is made easy by quick, inter-island flights and a ferry that runs between Maui and Lanai, which are only 9 miles apart. Most major airlines fly to Hawaii, and inter-island flights are available on Hawaiian Airlines, Mokulele Airlines and Southwest Airlines.

Whether you're looking for cheap places to travel , ways to make the most of your Hawaii vacation or the ideal time to visit for a romantic getaway , we've got you covered. So read on to learn the best time to visit Hawaii for travel deals, fewer crowds and weather that'll help you live out the vacation of your dreams.

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When is the cheapest time to go to Hawaii?

If getting a great deal is your top priority, the best time to go to Hawaii is during the spring and fall shoulder seasons , provided you book a trip outside of schools' spring and fall breaks. Another time to consider visiting is when kids go back to school in the fall but before the holiday breaks. This is usually the cheapest time to fly to Hawaii, so keep an eye out for deals from your favorite airlines.

Pro tip: Get the best airfare possible by creating airline price alerts that'll let you know when it's the best time to book a flight for a Hawaiian island escape. Apps like Skyscanner and tools like Google Flights price alerts make that easy. Another way to save on your trip to the Aloha State is to fly a budget airline .

When is the weather the best in Hawaii?

Its proximity to the equator means that Hawaii and all its islands enjoy just two seasons: summer and winter. And even the cooler season has unbeatable temps, which reinforces the idea that any time of year is the best time of year to visit Hawaii.

Daytime temperatures at sea level average 85 degrees in the summer (May to October) and 78 degrees in the winter (November through April). When the sun sets, those temps can drop about 10 degrees. Keep in mind that temperatures drop the higher you go in elevation, regardless of the time of year, and the islands have micro-environments ranging from cool alpine regions to hot, sunny beaches. A top packing tip for Hawaii is to keep a light jacket or sweater on hand in case temps dip.

Hurricane season in Hawaii runs from June 1 to Nov. 30, though crowds still flock to the islands in the summertime. The wettest months are typically November through March, but don't let that stop you from visiting during that time of year. If it's raining where you are, there's a good chance you can find some sun just a few miles down the road.

No matter when you visit Hawaii, be sure to use sunscreen for the duration of your trip to avoid having to rely on sunburn remedies . Yes, even in the winter!

What is the most popular month to go to Hawaii?

According to the Hawaii Tourism Authority , nearly 9.25 million people visited the state in 2022, a 36% increase over 2021's visitation numbers. July saw the most tourists, followed by December. A spokesperson for the authority says the most popular times to visit Hawaii are over school summer breaks (June, July and August), the last two weeks of December, the first week of January and spring breaks.

That said, documented 2022 visitation numbers show that the months with the fewest tourists were January and February, making winter the best time to visit Hawaii if you're hoping to escape the crowds. Oahu is historically the most-visited island, while Lanai and Molokai, which get fewer tourists, are two of the least-crowded islands .

When is the best time to visit Hawaii for whale watching?

Humpback whales migrate to Hawaii during the winter, which makes it the best time to visit Hawaii for travelers hoping to watch breaching whales right from the beach.

"We're in the middle of peak season for the best whale watching in Hawaii, which normally runs between mid-January through early March," says Elijah Smith, a beach ambassador for the Hui Holokai Beach Club at the Fairmont Orchid hotel on the island of Hawaii. "I take guests out on morning canoe adventures every day, and I've had the great fortune of spotting a number of whales breaching within 50 yards of our canoe. It's important to maintain a respectful distance, and it's always a majestic sight to behold. It never gets old."

Want a peek at other sea life? You can see dolphins (and swim with them!) in Hawaii, and you'll catch other underwater creatures through snorkeling and scuba diving adventures.

How many days is enough to visit Hawaii?

Flying to Hawaii takes some time, even when traveling from the West Coast, so be sure to plan enough time to truly enjoy the Aloha State once you arrive. This most likely won't be a quick trip . Determining how many days you'll need for your Hawaii vacation starts with deciding how many (and which) islands to visit.

First-timers can get a good feel for Hawaii with a visit to Oahu, while honeymooners could be content spending a week at one of the most romantic resorts on the island of Hawaii, and adventurers may island hop in search of thrills.

Planning to attend annual festivals—like the statewide King Kamehameha Celebration in June, the Hawaii Food and Wine Festival on the islands of Hawaii, Maui and Oahu in October and November, and the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival on the island of Hawaii in November—could come into play too.

Book your visit

• Elijah Smith, beach ambassador for the Hui Holokai Beach Club at the Fairmont Orchid
• Hawaii Tourism Authority
• The Hawaiian Islands : "Hawai'i Fact Sheet"
• The Hawaiian Islands : "Weather"
• State of Hawaii : "Hurricane Season"
• Hawaii Tourism Authority : "Monthly Visitor Statistics"

The post The Best Time to Visit Hawaii for Perfect Weather and Low Prices appeared first on Reader's Digest .

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Family vacation first time to Florida or Hawaii? - Florida Forum

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Has anyone been to both hawaii and florida and which place would u recommend for a families first time. Its mainly a trip for my 11 year old son.

Spring break. My son, me, and my parents. Which one is more fun for a family vacation? And which hawaii island and what state in florida?

Took dad and son to oahu for the first time last year. Loved it but would rather see a different island. My son and I like waikiki bcus lots of entertainment. My son likes all the games in the mall, the beach, getting snacka at abc stores. Im mpre about nature. My dad liked noeth shore.

Anyways, besides oahu last year, my family has never left the country.

15 replies to this topic

Maui vs Orlando is almost a nonsensical comparison. That is like asking an 11 year old if he likes pizza or donuts more. There isn't really an answer because the two are so different.

My personal recommendation would be to go to Orlando and do four days at Disney and three days at Universal. In each case I'd stay at a Disney hotel for the Disney days and a Universal hotel for the Universal days.

If I lived on the West Coast Hawaii would be a no-brainer. We love Maui, more laid back than Oahu.

Kaanapali has entertainment and shopping.

You don't "leave the country" when you go to Hawaii although it feels like you do and Florida is a state.

But, agree with pp that I would plan on 5-6 days onsite at Disney and 2-4 over at Universal.

Key West wouldn't be on my radar with an 11yo.

Apples and Oranges. We totally loved Maui but that was before the fires. They are still rebuilding things so it’s not the same quaint place that it was. The main thing the 11 year old would like there would probably be going up to the volcano to see the sunrise above the clouds then biking down the mountain. There might be a few whales around still and the snorkeling is great too.

Key West is boring to most kids. Unless you are doing a lot of water activities it’s mostly touristy shops, bars and restaurants with some historical mixed in. It’s a place he would probably like a lot better when he is older. Don’t get me wrong the keys are 110 miles of islands and beautiful and a great place to visit. Just no shopping malls, arcades etc. more about nature on most of the islands.

Singer Island/Phil Foster park has excellent snorkeling it is in Palm Beach County but not in the town of Palm Beach.

The big island of Hawaii has more to see and do such as Pearl Harbor and the lava mentioned above and much more. Kauai island was nice but it's small and we were getting bored with it after a week.

I would guess Florida would be more entertaining for children. Hawaii has so much to see and do but you end up getting a lot of beach time which is great for beach people but for others, you've seen one beach, you've seen them all.

Did a quick check, lava is not flowing currently.

Waikiki has the action and the beach along the same strip.

Also, your post says "Im mpre about nature" - not sure what this means - whether nature interests you or not.

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