Ultimate Guide to Hawaii

So when should you go, and what can you expect during each season? The official high season is from November through March, but travelers will get better deals and experience fewer crowds during shoulder months like April, May, September, and October. Ahead, we break things down even further, including what to do during each season and where to stay.

Hawaii in Winter

The winter months (November through March) are commonly referred to as the rainy season in Hawaii, but don’t let that deter you from taking a trip here when the rest of the U.S. is freezing cold. Typically, showers are short and don’t last days. Plus, rain means long waterfall hikes bring extra big rewards. Those looking to surf should head to the North Shore of Oahu. The area is home to beaches that have starred in movies — Waimea Bay, Sunset Beach, Pipeline — and the winter months bring some serious swells that lure pro surfers. If you want to be close to the action, stay at Turtle Bay Resort or Ke Iki Beach Bungalows. Not into surfing? No problem. Spend some time scanning the coastline along the south shore (Diamond Head, Waikiki), as this is the season for whale watching. The best months to spot humpback whales are between November, March, or April, and (especially) January and February. If your trip coincides with the Chinese New Year in January, enjoy fireworks in Oahu’s colorful Chinatown.

Hawaii in Spring

Spring showers bring May flowers and if you’re on Oahu around this time, you’re in for a treat. May Day (May 1) is Lei Day in Hawaii, an annual celebration of lei-making and Hawaiian culture. Most of the festival events, including lei-making contests, hula performance, and live music, take place at Kapiolani Park.


In addition to May Day, the Merrie Monarch Festival takes place on the Big Island in April, complete with hula competitions and other events with troupes from around the world. The week-long festival, which honors the legacy of King David Kalākaua who inspired the perpetuation of Hawaiian language and tradition, also features a grand parade through the town of Hilo. And if you’re on Oahu for Memorial Day, head over to Ala Moana Beach Park. Here, thousands gather to honor those who have served by floating lanterns with hand-written messages inscribed on them.

Hawaii in Summer

Come summer, the showers from previous seasons disappear and the temperatures hover around 80 degrees every day. Cool down at the beaches, waterfalls, or with some shave ice. It’s also the perfect time to enjoy the coastline that are otherwise choppy and difficult to swim in. Take advantage of some snorkeling at Shark’s Cove at Pupukea Beach Park or work on your tan at Waimea Bay. If you’re on Oahu and looking to surf, head to the south or east shores where summer swells hit Waikiki, Ala Moana Beach Park, and Diamond Head. Towards the end of season, you might start to notice more turtles near the shoreline, especially on the north side of the island at Laniakea Beach (also known as Turtle Beach). The creatures are getting ready to nest during the fall months. Stay at Turtle Bay Resort, which puts you within eight miles of the beach.

Hawaii in Fall

With its calming breeze, fall is a great time to be outdoors and enjoy local art or music. By this time, the prices have also dropped from the summer rush. If you’re on the Big Island, you may see snow falling on Mauna Kea, a dormant volcano, as well as other large volcanic mountains. Elsewhere, you won’t see changing leaves or falling snow, but you will find fewer crowds and a delightful laid-back vibe. The Aloha Festivals, which celebrate Hawaiian history, food, and culture with parades, street parties, and cookouts, also take place on each island in September.

Since Hawaii is part of the United States, U.S. citizens do not need special visa requirements or documentation to travel there. For citizens traveling to Hawaii from outside of the U.S., check the U.S. Department of State website for up-to-date information on what documents are required for travel to the U.S.

Flying to Hawaii

Many major U.S. airlines offer direct flights to Hawaii, including Delta, American, United and Hawaiian. The islands of Oahu, Maui, Hawaii, and Kauai all have major airports. Flying from one island to another is cheap and easy, and there are also ferries that will take you island hopping.

Transportation in Hawaii

If you plan to explore Hawaii on your own, you have several options.

Public Transportation

Hawaii has several public transportation options, with each island having its own system.
Here is the bus information for the four main tourist islands:

Oahu

TheBus:

Serves most areas of the island, operating daily.

Maui

Maui Bus:

Serves several towns and attractions.

Kauai

Kauai Bus:

Serves most parts of the island.

Hawaii

Hele-On Bus:

Serves several island areas, including Hilo, Kona, and Volcano National Park.

Skyline:

Honolulu has a new rail system. The second phase of stations is scheduled to open in 2025, and the third phase of expansion is set to open in 2031.

Traveling between Islands

Only one passenger ferry is currently running in Hawaii between islands, Maui to Lanai.
To travel between islands, you have to fly. Hawaiian Airlines, Southwest Air, and Mokulele Airlines offer inter-island flights.

Renting a Car

Renting a car is the best option for the most flexibility in getting around. All major airports have car rental options. Be sure to stick with a reputable company like Budget, Avis, or Hertz, and don’t get swindled into a less-than-honest company. When you book in advance, you can ensure availability for a car and book with sites like priceline, rentalcars.com, booking.com or hotwire, which often have deeper discounts than booking directly from the car rental company.

Each of the islands of Hawaii offers its own unique ambiance and activities, from laid-back and lush Kauai to the much livelier island of Oahu. If you want to go to Hawaii but aren't sure which spot is right for you, use this cheat sheet to help you find your ideal island. If you want to island hop, you should plan to stay in Hawaii for at least ten days to make the most of the long plane ride and hit as many islands as possible.

Maui

Of all the islands in Hawaii, Maui is perhaps the best all-rounder for those who want a leisure-focused vacation. It’s the second most visited (after Oahu), and features a solid mix of upscale beach resorts, golfing opportunities, and gorgeous jungle and volcano hikes. Popular activities include hiking on the crater at the top of Haleakala National Park, driving through the jungle along the scenic Road to Hana, whale-watching, and snorkeling. Because of its popularity with tourists, there are also plenty of regular cultural activities, and many of the larger hotels hold frequent luaus for their guests.


Check out our full travel guide to Maui.

Oahu

Home of Honolulu, the state’s main business hub and Hawaii’s only big city, Oahu gets more visitors than any other island. For those who want a bit of a party scene, it’s a good choice, and Waikiki, in particular, has plenty of clubs, bars, and restaurants open well into the night. However, there are plenty of quieter, less urban places to visit, meaning visitors can get a full Hawaiian experience without hopping over to another island. The North Shore is particularly popular, with many little bohemian beach towns especially favored by surfers. Other major attractions on the island include the Polynesian Cultural Center, which is easily the island’s most interesting museum, and the sunken remains of the USS Arizona in Pearl Harbor.


Check out our full travel guide to Oahu.

Hawaii

The Island of Hawaii, almost universally referred to as the “Big Island” to avoid confusion with the state, is — unsurprisingly — by far the largest of the state’s islands and offers a ton of activities, from swimming, surfing, and snorkeling to hiking up to waterfalls to exploring lava tubes. Compared to some of the other islands in the chain, parts of the Big Island look stark, particularly on the dry, leeward side, where Kona and many of the resorts are located. Don’t miss a visit to Mauna Kea (the highest mountain on earth if measured from the floor of the sea to its summit), where several astronomical observatories are located. Just be prepared with a four-wheel drive and make sure to rest to acclimatize on the way up. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is also worth a visit. It has two active volcanoes, including Kilauea, which has been in a state of eruption since 1983.

Kauai

Arguably the most beautiful island in Hawaii, Kauai (a.k.a. the Garden Island) is a quiet, laid-back island with a gorgeous mix of arid canyons and lush coastline. It lacks some of the major development found on Oahu, Maui, or even the Big Island, and while there’s not much of a party scene, the opportunities for relaxing and exploring are unparalleled. One of the most popular activities is exploring the Na Pali Coast, a stretch of mystical coastline that can be accessed either by boat or by hiking 11 miles each way and camping. The other star attraction on the island is the mile-long Waimea Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” due to its impressive size.


Check out our full travel guide to Kauai.

Lanai

Lanai, the smallest island the public can access, was once a huge pineapple plantation. Today, it’s almost privately owned (by Oracle’s Larry Ellison) and largely undeveloped. Most travelers come here to golf, and many stay at one of the two Four Seasons properties, each with its own golf course. Cat lovers should stop at the Lanai Cat Sanctuary, and visitors can even arrange out-of-state adoptions for free.


Check out our full travel guide to Lanai.

Molokai

If you really want quiet and are interested in foregoing typical tourist attractions in favor of a back-to-basics experience, Molokai might be a good choice. Life on this compact island is slow, and while there’s not much to do in terms of organized activities, it is home to one of the state’s most interesting sites: Kalaupapa National Historical Park. This former leper colony on the coast is cut off from the rest of the island by road and can only be accessed by plane or trail (most opting for the latter ride a mule down into the park). Most visitors to Molokai also stop off at the “post-a-nut” facility at the Hoolehua Post Office. Here, travelers can address and decorate a keepsake coconut using multicolored Sharpies kept on-site at the post office. The postmaster will stamp the nut and send it off, just like regular mail.

Maui

Budget: Maui Beach Hotel

Located in Kahului, this budget-friendly hotel provides the basic necessities you’ll need during your Maui stay. The hotel is older but offers basic amenities like a pool, restaurant, and free shuttle service. While the rooms may seem dated, the decor is plain, and all rooms have a large-screen TV, mini-fridges, and more. Suites have wet bars, larger bathrooms, and jetted tubs. Oceanview and Oceanfront rooms are available, with large windows offering water views. Rooms with small lanais and lounge chairs are available.

Luxury: Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort

This luxurious resort is situated on 40 acres and offers guests a lavish home away from home while visiting Maui. Choose from a wide range of accommodations, including spacious standard rooms, suites, and villas- many with glorious ocean views. On-site, you’ll find over ten dining options, a spa, a fitness center, a biostation, authentic Hawaiian experiences, two pools, and a waterslide. Cabanas are available at the pool. The resort is just steps away from Wailea Beach, one of the best beaches in the world.

Family-Friendly: The Westin Maui Resort & Spa

With a large outdoor pool, lazy river, waterslide, and Kids Club, The Westin Maui Resort & Spa will be the perfect place to call home during your Hawaiian vacation. Reserve a cabana on the beach or by the pool, or get a taste of traditional Hawaiian culture at the Wailea Luau next to Ka'anapali Beach. Choose from a variety of suites, many of them accessible.

Oahu

Budget: Hotel La Croix

For an affordable, comfortable, simple stay in Honolulu, try the Hotel La Croix. It offers a convenient location within walking distance to many of the top spots in Honolulu, offers views of the Ainahau Triangle and Fort DeRussy parks, and has an infinity saltwater pool. Despite its affordable price, there is an on-site restaurant, poolside bar, and fitness center, and it is dog-friendly. Choose from standard rooms, suites, and studios - some are available with balconies.

Luxury: Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina

From its oceanfront location, modern rooms, gorgeous pools, and luxurious amenities, the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina is a fantastic option for your luxury stay on Oahu. The spacious rooms feature sleeper sofas, Nespresso machines, and balconies perfect for sipping a morning latte on. Four pools include an adults-only infinity pool and a family-friendly ocean-view pool. You’ll find plenty of activities, including yoga, a kids club, and watersports.

Hawaii

Budget: Royal Kona Resort

This oceanfront resort has all of the amenities of a luxurious resort without the pricetag. Guest enjoy stunning ocean views, a private beach, pool, spa, tennis courts and yoga classes. There is an on-site restaurant that serves traditional Hawaiian cuisine, and can enjoy a traditional experience with the Voyagers of the Pacific Luau. Choose from oceanfront, ocean view or mountain view rooms, as well as spacious suites.

Luxury: Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection

This luxurious beachfront resort on the Kohala Coast of Hawaii offers spacious accommodations, including villas and suites with private pools and breathtaking ocean views. The topnotch amenities include an on-site spa, multiple pools, a golf course, and a private beach club. There is even an on-site museum, the Francis H. C. Bishop Museum, showcasing the rich culture and history of Hawaii.

Kauai

Budget: The Kauai Inn

The oldest hotel on Kauai, the Kauai Inn provides basic amenities with comfortable accommodations. Choose from rooms with lanais, standard rooms, and rooms with a soaking tub. There is an on-site pool and complimentary continental breakfast.

Luxury: Ko’a Kea Hotel & Resort

This luxury resort located on Poipu Beach, Kauai offers the ideal spot for your luxury Kauai vacation. The hotel features spacious rooms and suites, many with ocean views and private lanais. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including multiple pools, a world-class spa, a fitness center, and a variety of dining options.

Lanai

Budget: Dreams Come True on Lanai

It’s a bit hard to find a budget hotel on Lanai (there aren’t many hotels to begin with), but this B&B fits the bill. Set in a plantation style home, there are four rooms to choose from, each with it’s own bathroom with a whirlpool. Enjoy a covered outdoor area, common TV room and on-site laundry facilities. Enjoy fresh baked muffins in the morning, and your hosts are happy to provide transportation should you need it.

Luxury: Four Seasons Resort Lanai

This luxury beach resort offers spectacular ocean views, perfect for a more secluded Hawaiian getaway. Choose from ocean or garden view rooms, roomier suites, or, for the most space, one or two bedroom villas. Rooms with private plunge pools, outdoor showers and butler service are available. Enjoy world class amenities like an on-site spa, pools, fitness center, and a variety of dining options. Guests can also tap into their adventurous side, through activities like hiking, snorkeling, and diving.

While the beach and various water activities may take up the majority of your visit, there are plenty of other things to do and see.

Volcano National Park, Hawaii

Explore the active Kilauea volcano and its surrounding lava fields at Volcano National Park. Go hiking, check out the old Kahuka Ranch, or go on a scenic drive where you may just see some glowing lava. Make sure you check any road closures before setting out.

Waimea Canyon State Park, Kauaʻi

Known as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," this stunning canyon offers breathtaking views. Hike around the canyon, explore natural wonders like Waipo’o Falls, an 800-foot waterfall, and take in the beauty at the many lookout points, like Pu'u o Kila, which offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

Snorkel or dive in Hanauma Bay, Oahu

Discover a vibrant underwater world filled with colorful fish and coral reefs at Hanauma Bay. Snorkeling gear is available to rent for $20; reservations are required to visit the bay. After exploring the amazing coral Hawaii worked so hard to restore, enjoy a snack at the snack bar. Before snorkeling, be sure to read the safety tips.

Whale Watching

Spot humpback whales during their migration season (December to May). While Maui is known for having the best whale watching, you can observe whales from every island. Whale watching tours are available on the Big Island, Kaua’i, Oahu, and, of course, Maui.

Hike to the summit of Haleakala, Maui

Witness a stunning sunrise or sunset from the summit of this dormant volcano on Maui.

Surf or bodyboard on world-famous waves

Hawaii is a surfer's paradise with waves suitable for all skill levels.

Relax on the Beach

I know when I think of Hawaii, I think of crystal clear waters at the beach, and I imagine myself with a beverage, lounge chair, sun hat and a good book relaxing on the beach. If all you want to do during your stay is enjoy the world-famous beaches, so be it! Some of the best beaches in Hawaii are:

Oahu:

Waikiki Beach
Lanikai Beach
Hanauma Bay

Maui:

Kaanapali Beach
Wailea Beach
Kapalua Beach

Kauai:

Hanalei Bay
Poipu Beach
Tunnels Beach

Big Island:

Mauna Kea Beach
Punalu'u Black Sand Beach
Hapuna Beach

Cultural Experiences

Attend a luau

Perhaps the most well-known Hawaiian tradition is the luau. Enjoy traditional food, dancing and storytelling like never before. Many hotels host their own for guests to experience it, but if yours doesn’t, options are available, including at hotels that allow non-guests to attend. Be sure to research and book one that is reputable and traditional. Some of the best luaus include:

Old Lāhainā Lūʻau (Maui)

Feast at Mokapu (Maui)

Toa Luau (Oahu)

Polynesian Cultural Center (Oahu)

Voyagers of the Pacific (Hawaii)

Smith’s Family Garden (Kauai)

Visit Pearl Harbor National Memorial Park, Oahu

Pay your respects to those who lost their lives on December 7, 1941 at Pearl Harbor National Park. Visit the USS Arizona Memorial and get an in-depth history at the visitor center.

Explore the Polynesian Cultural Center

Discover the rich history and traditions of Polynesian cultures through interactive exhibits and performances.

Nightlife

While hitting the waves and doing outdoor activities during the day may be your main reason for visiting Hawaii, the state also has a lively nightlife. Here are some top spots for those looking to have a good time once the stars appear.

Waikiki Beach - Honolulu, Oahu

This area of Honolulu has bars, clubs, and restaurants, offering a vibrant nightlife. Just looking for a drink in a dive bar? Try Arnold’s Tiki Bar. Try your hand at karaoke at Wang Chung, or enjoy nightclubs like Scarlet Bar and Dance Club, The District, Fyre by Night, or the Republik.

Lahaina, Maui

Lahaina has numerous bars, pubs, and live music venues, perfect for letting loose in Maui. Visit Hawaii’s largest craft brewing company, Maui Brewing Company, dance the night away at South Shore Tiki Lounge, or sip a delicious cocktail with a tasty meal at Monkeypod.

Kailua Village, Oahu

This charming town offers a relaxed atmosphere with a variety of bars and restaurants. Grab a drink at Creekside, get a craft cocktail and some fine dining at the Boardroom, or head to the prohibition era at speakeasy Gaslamp.

Safety in Hawaii

Staying safe is key when traveling anywhere, and Hawaii is no different. Your best bet is to stick to the resort areas and not wander to isolated areas alone. That being said, when you are in more crowded tourist areas, be sure to stay aware while walking—crowds can attract pickpockets. Safe areas in Hawaii include Waikiki, Kailua, Kapalua, Lahaina, and Haleiwa.


Most other tips for staying safe in Hawaii can be applied anywhere:
Avoid walking alone at night
Use public transportation or ride-sharing services
Let someone know where you're going
Keep your valuables secure
Avoid carrying large amounts of cash
Be cautious when using ATMs

Avoid scammers in Hawaii

Like most tourist-heavy destinations, Hawaii is not without scammers trying to exploit tourists' ignorance. Some common scams in Hawaii include:


Rental Car Scams: Some rental car companies may attempt to charge additional fees or damages that aren't justified. Inspect your rental car thoroughly before driving off and take photos of any existing damage.
Time-Share Sales Pitches: You may encounter aggressive salespeople trying to sell you a time-share. Be cautious, and don't feel pressured to decide on the spot.
Beach Vendors: Some beach vendors may try to overcharge tourists for their products. Be sure to compare prices and negotiate if necessary.
Street Vendors: Beware of counterfeit goods, especially sunglasses and jewelry.
Scams Involving Transportation: Some taxi drivers or tour operators may try to overcharge or take longer routes to inflate the fare.

Hawaii is expensive, especially when eating out.

Hawaii is one of the most expensive states in the U.S. The large tourist numbers and inflated costs of shipping goods to the islands mean that prices are almost uniformly high. While you can find cheaper flights depending on the time of year you visit (mid-April to early June represents the off-peak season), eating out is pricey year-round, even in relatively standard chain restaurants. One way to score a cheaper meal is to look for early bird specials, which can be found in the restaurants in popular tourist towns. Another alternative is to find a food truck, of which there are plenty. This will save you money and give you an authentic vibe.

All beaches in Hawaii are public.

Much of the land across Hawaii’s islands is government-owned, which means there’s plenty of space that’s open to the public. On top of that, a law decrees that anything below the highest wave line (that is, the line where the sand becomes wet on a beach) is public, making all beaches free and open to everyone. The only issue with Hawaii’s public beaches is that they can be tough to physically access — some sandy stretches tend to be cut off by out-of-control vegetation. Tropical plants like naupaka and beach morning glory grow densely along the shoreline, so access routes are often hard to spot. However, if you can make it through, the reward is empty beaches.

Hawaii has some dangerous swimming spots.

If you’ve broken through the vegetation and hit a deserted beach, the temptation to throw yourself into the water will be strong. However, if you’re planning on visiting a beach without lifeguards and flags, make sure to research its safety conditions first. Hanakapiai Beach on Kauai’s Na Pali Coast is one example where you should avoid the water entirely. Located at the end of a beautiful forest hike, the beach is renowned for its strong rip currents and dangerous shore breaks, making it one of the deadliest swimming spots in Hawaii. There’s even a sign that marks the number of swimmers killed by unseen currents.
Some of the safest beaches in Hawaii are:

• Waikiki Beach: This iconic beach is safe and well-patrolled, making it a great choice for families and first-time visitors.
• Lanikai Beach
• Hanauma Bay: A protected marine life conservation area is a great place to snorkel or swim, but be sure to follow the rules and regulations to ensure your safety.
  
  

Not all residents of Hawaii are ‘Hawaiian.’

While you may be able to live in New York and call yourself a New Yorker, in Hawaii, that’s not how it works — and visitors should be aware of this before arriving to avoid causing offense. In Hawaii, only people of Hawaiian ancestry are called ‘Hawaiian.’ The term specifically refers to a descendant of the original Polynesian settlers. Other locals, even those born and raised on the islands, refer to themselves as islanders or Hawaii residents.

It’s important to stick to marked trails when hiking in Hawaii.

Hawaii has plenty of hiking opportunities, from Oahu’s Diamond Head Trail to the alpine Mauna Kea ascent. Due to the thick vegetation, sheer cliff drops, hidden ravines, and a range of other dangers, hikers are encouraged to stay on the marked trails. Straying away from the marked paths also poses a risk for others, as getting lost or into trouble off-route often requires search parties to be sent out. A little research will help you determine which trails are safe to enjoy.

Pack an eco-friendly sunscreen for your Hawaii vacation.

The sun rays in Hawaii are seriously strong, so make sure to lather up before heading outside. A sunburn is not a good way to start a vacation — and neither is sun stroke — so bring a hat, too. Make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen because prices in Hawaii are high and you don’t want to risk running out. Finally, make sure to buy an eco-friendly, chemical-free sunscreen that’s not harmful to the local coral reefs (Hawaii banned the sale of sunscreens containing the coral-harming chemicals oxybenzone and octinoxate, and it’s due to come into effect in January 2021).

You can't surf just anywhere in Hawaii.

Hawaii is the birthplace of modern surfing and Oahu’s North Shore is something like its mecca. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned surfer, locals might not appreciate you paddling out at the Banzai Pipeline and stealing lines from residents. The locals-only mentality of the North Shore is partly to patrol the dangerous breaks. Plus, few tourists will be prepped to surf the big waves there anyway. While some surf spots are off-limits, there’s plenty of shoreline for tourists to catch a wave. The Big Island is a perfect place to start — Kahalu’u Bay on the Kona coast is great for beginners.

Island time is a real thing in Hawaii.

There are many myths that will likely be dispelled on your first trip to Hawaii, but the presence of island time is not one of them. Things move slowly here, so you’ll need to check your attitude and hasty ways at the airport entry gate, which shouldn’t be too hard since you’re on vacation. This especially applies to driving, as locals tend to move at a more leisurely speed. Relax, don’t honk your horn, and take in the landscapes.

Don’t leave valuables in your rental car.

Car break-ins can be a problem in Hawaii, with tourists leaving rentals parked in deserted, out-of-the-way places when out searching for beaches and trails. Try to park in designated car parks when possible, and don’t leave any valuables in the vehicle under any circumstance.

Be Respectful of Hawaiian Customs

As mentioned above, not everyone in Hawaii is “Hawaiian,” and there are other customs that you should abide to while visiting.

Respect the environment

This includes not taking anything from the land to bring home as a souvenir.

Lei Etiquette

Receiving a lei is common practice, but you should never wear a lei on your head. Leaving a lei on a tree or special place when you are done with it is considered respectful.

The Aloha Spirit

Aloha is used for saying hello and goodbye. It is more than that, the Aloha Spirit “is the coordination of mind and heart within each person. It brings each person to the self. Each person must think and emote good feelings to others.” Keep this in mind during your Hawaiian stay.

Packing for Hawaii is similar to any other beach vacation. We’ve put together a list of the essentials.

Essentials:

• Swimwear
• Cover-up
• Sunglasses and hat
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Reef Safe Sunscreen
• Beach towel
• Casual clothing: T-shirts, shorts, and dresses.
• Evening attire: One nice dress, button-down shirt and slacks.
• Sandals
• Toiletries: Shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothpaste, toothbrush, medications, shaving supplies.
• First-aid kit
• Chargers: For your phone, tablet, watch, and earbuds.
• Reading Material
• Earbuds/Headphones

Optional:

• Beach bag
• Waterproof phone case
• Lightweight jacket