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Hawaii Family Vacation Package 6 person Max

Get away for an all-inclusive family vacation in beautiful Hawaii, our magical island that brings joy and pleasure to kids and adults.

Hawaii Family Vacation Package Highlights

• Airport Flower Lei Greeting
• Round-Trip Airport Transportation (Departure and Arrival)
• Pearl Harbor: WWII Beginning to End
• Polynesian Cultural Center + North Shore + Dole Pineapple Plantation
• Big Island for a Volcano Adventure
• Aquarium and Zoo ( Waikiki hotels only)
• Description

Get away for an all-inclusive family vacation in beautiful Hawaii, our magical island that brings joy and pleasure to kids and adults. Feel inspired, challenged and relaxed with our Hawaii Family Vacation Package and give your family the gift of play in the Aloha State.

Packed with exciting sugar white sandy beach and pool activities, arts & crafts, movies on the beach, eco adventure hiking, dining and water sports like Hawaiian canoe and surfing, this Hawaii family vacation package lets you enjoy fun adventures, meet friends and pursue passions.

Our family vacation package in beautiful Hawaii offers a safe, friendly setting for kids to play and have the time of their lives, while adults enjoy live entertainment and gourmet cuisine. Treat your family to an unforgettable, all-inclusive family vacation in Hawaii and discover the genuine spirit of Aloha!

*Based on availability, additional charge may apply based on season at the sole discretion of the hotel partners.

Hawaii Family Vacation Package Includes

Inter-Island Airfare

Tours & Activities

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

*Although this package includes a wide range of activities designed to provide you with the best in Hawaii, we are also able to customize an itinerary to your taste.

Day 1 | Pearl Harbor: WWII Beginning to End Perfect tour for families! Touring the Battleships of World War II is an exciting way to experience American history and explore one of Oahu’s most famous attractions!

Day 2 | The Adventures of Hidden Hawai‘i Enjoy an adventure on Oahu that will highlight your trip to Hawaii. Hike, boogie board and snorkel at the top destinations!

Day 3 | Cultural Island Excursion Polynesian Cultural Center + North Shore + Dole Pineapple Plantation An experience you don’t want to miss. Visit famous North Shore beaches, and the Polynesian Cultural Center. BBQ lunch buffet included!

Day 4 | Island hopping! Hop to Big Island for a Volcano Adventure or to Maui for the magical Road to Hana

Day 5 | Free Day Optional: A Day at Hanauma Bay At Night:   Luau :  Experience the beautiful culture of Hawai’i as we present a night of music, hula, and fire dancing.

Day 6 | Relax Enjoy a day at the beach Optional: Surf Lessons, Honolulu Zoo , or Honolulu Aquarium

Day 7 | Snorkel & Dolphin Adventure Enjoy a three-hour cruise, where you’ll jump in the warm waters of the Pacific, getting up and close with playful Spinner Dolphins.

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The aloha state, a family of islands with distinct personalities offers their unique version of paradise. find your ideal island, find your hawaii..

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Maui on a budget: 5 things to do for free, natural hawaii, oahu on a budget: 5 things to do for free, more about hawaii.

Discover the differences between these majestic islands and choose your paradise.

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

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

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

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

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

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How Much Does a Trip to Hawaii Cost?

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

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

Hawaiian vacation costs vary by island

For starters, realize that costs can vary widely. It's totally possible to do Hawaii on a budget , particularly if you're primarily chowing down on spam musubi from the corner store rather than sitting down in front of a white tablecoth for fine dining.

But also realize that individual islands can vary widely in cost. In general, Oahu is the cheapest Hawaiian island to visit . According to May 2024 data from the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority, Oahu hotel rooms average about 21% less than the broader average across the state.

Here's a breakdown of average daily hotel room rates across the four main Hawaiian islands for tourism (which are Oahu, Maui, Kauai and the Big Island):

And what about other travel costs, like dining out and activities? Oahu wins there too. The Hawai’i Tourism Authority looked at average spending per day, per tourist. Their data encompassed lodging and other spending including on-the-ground transporation, food, souvenirs and activities, though it didn't spend. Here's how much the average tourist spent, per day:

Estimated Hawaii trip cost

But those are all average costs, and you might hardly be an average traveler. A broke backpacker might have a very different travel style than someone on a honeymoon at a 5-star resort. Given that, we took some hypothetical itineraries and put them to the budget test:

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

For this exercise, we looked at two different hypothetical vacations. Both assume a family of four (two adults and two children). The two vacations are:

A 10-night trip for a family of four during the peak summer travel season.

A seven-night trip for that same family during the shoulder season.

Some logistics about these hypotheticals:

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

Round-trip flights for four from Los Angeles.

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

We used three property types to assess price estimates:

A beachfront four-star resort: Hilton Hawaiian Village. 

A three-star hotel: Holiday Inn Express Waikiki. 

A condo: Various Waikiki units on Vrbo.com.

Totals include resort fees :

$50 per night at the four-star resort.

$29.49 per night at the three-star hotel.

All management and cleaning fees at the condo units.

Totals include parking costs of:

$68.06 per day at the four-star resort.

$45 per day at the three-star hotel.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Economy rental car reserved through DiscountHawaiiCarRental.com or Turo .

$5-a-day tip for housekeepers .

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

10-night trip, peak summer travel season

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

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

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

Seven-night trip, shoulder season

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

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

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

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

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

How to cut your Hawaii vacation costs

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

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

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

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

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

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

Eat cheaper

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

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

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

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

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

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

Consider a condo

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

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

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

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

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

Pay with points and miles

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

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

The Cheapest Ways to Fly to Hawaii Using Travel Rewards .

How to Travel to Honolulu on Points and Miles .

Where to Stay in Waikiki With Hotel Points .

How to Visit Hawaii On a Budget .

The Best Oahu Hotels Without Resort Fees .

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

Travel to Hawaii for less money

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

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

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

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

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

No annual fee: Wells Fargo Autograph℠ 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%-5% Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

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

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals 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.

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

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

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

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

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

Video: Hawaii Travel Tips

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

Although Lahaina remains closed the Honoapi’ilani Highway through Lahaina Town has now reopened.

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

Travel to other islands in Hawaii is unaffected.

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

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

Back to Contents

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

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

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

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

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

Most visitors to Hawaii visit one of these four islands:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our favourite activities in Oahu are:

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

See our 7 Day Oahu itinerary for many more tips.

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

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

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

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

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

Our favourite activities in Maui are:

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

See our Maui itinerary for more tips.

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

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

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

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

Our favourite activities on the Big Island are:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our favourite activities in Kauai are:

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

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

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

Less Visited Hawaiian Islands

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

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

Which Side of the Island?

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

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

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

Where We Visited in Hawaii

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

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

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

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

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

To See Humpback Whales—Visit in Winter

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

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

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

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

To Save Money—Visit in the Off-Season

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

For Snorkelling—Visit in Summer

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other Useful Items

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

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

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

We share more of our Hawaii tips in these posts:

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

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18 Comments

I’m wondering if one must rent a car to travel? Is uber not available in Hawaii?

Reply ↓

It depends where you go. It Honolulu on Oahu you could manage without a car as there is Uber and you could also take the bus or tours to some attractions.

In other places it would be challenging as Uber is limited and attractions are spread apart. If you wanted a relaxing vacation spent mostly in your resort you could manage without a car and just take a few tours. But to see a lot, a car gives you the most flexibility.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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$87 Find Cheap Flights to Hawaii

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight from the united states to hawaii departing on 10/28. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to hawaii.

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Good to know

Faqs - booking hawaii flights, i’m traveling to big island. which airport should i choose when booking flights to hawaii.

The best airport for passengers traveling to Big Island will probably depend on the reason for your trip. If you’re going mainly for the resorts and beaches on the West Kona side, then the best airport is Kona International Airport. If you’re going for the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, then the best airport is Hilo International Airport.

I want to hike in Hawaii. Which island should I travel to?

Kauai, Big Island, Molokai, Oahu, and Maui are the best islands in Hawaii for hiking. Big Island, Oahu, and Maui are all served by major international airports with nonstop flights from the continent. Kauai and Molokai also have airports, but travelers from the States will need to travel to Honolulu (in Oahu) first, and then take an inter-island flight to their final destination.

How can I travel from the Honolulu airport to Waikiki beach?

Waikiki Beach is less than 20 min from the Honolulu Airport. You can travel by private shuttle ($18 per person on average), taxi ($30 per ride on average), or you can use a rideshare service ($23-30 per ride on average). If you’re planning on exploring the island beyond Waikiki, you can rent a car at the airport. You’ll find offices for Avis, Budget, Hertz, National, and Enterprise at the baggage claim area.

Which airports in Hawaii are closer to the beach?

The airports in Hawaii closest to the beach are Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu on Oahu island (13 min to Ala Moana Beach Park), Kona International Airport on Big Island (7 min to Wawaloli Beach Park), and Kahului Airport on Maui island (6 min to Kanaha Beach Park).

How long is the flight to Hawaii?

An average nonstop flight from the United States to Hawaii takes 7h 40m, covering a distance of 3331 miles. The most popular route is Los Angeles - Honolulu with an average flight time of 5h 40m.

What is the cheapest flight to Hawaii?

The cheapest ticket to Hawaii from the United States found in the last 72 hours was $54 one-way, and $163 round-trip. The most popular route is from Los Angeles to Honolulu and the cheapest round-trip airline ticket found on this route in the last 72 hours was $163.

Which airlines fly to Hawaii?

Hawaiian Airlines, Korean Air & Alaska Airlines fly the most frequently from the United States to Hawaii.

What are the most popular destinations in Hawaii?

Based on KAYAK flight searches, the most popular destination is Honolulu (56% of total searches to Hawaii). The next most popular destinations are Kahului (19%) and Kailua-Kona (12%). Searches for flights to Lihue (11%), to Hilo (1%) and to Kapalua (0.5%) are also popular.

How does KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a given destination and date is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Hawaii

• Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Hawaii flight deals.
• If you’re looking for beach- and family-friendly destinations when booking your flights to Hawaii, look for flights into the islands of Kauai, Big Island, Maui, and Oahu. They are served by Lihue Airport (LIH), Kona International Airport (KOA) and Hilo International Airport (ITO), Kahului Airport (OGG), and Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), respectively.
• If you want to take your time exploring the islands, you can fly from the mainland into Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu on Oahu island, and then take domestic flights to the other islands. Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest are two of the companies that operate inter-island flights.
• Most first-time travelers to Hawaii choose Maui as their destination, but keep in mind that there are fewer nonstop flights from the continental US landing at Maui’s Kahului Airport. Most flights from the mainland connect via the Honolulu airport on Oahu island.
• If you’re planning to go on whale-watching tours, look for flights to Hawaii on the island of Kauai. Although practically every island is excellent for whale-watching activities, Kauai has a greater range of possible spotting locations.
• For golfers, Hawaii means golf courses that are as gorgeous as they are high-quality. If you don’t know where to start, consider traveling to the airport of Oahu. With 37 golf clubs, it’s the island with the most golf courses in America’s 50th state.

Top 5 airlines flying to Hawaii

Little snafu at boarding. Staff communicated with gate poorly. Flight attendant was rude making disembark early. This was an older mint class. Needs an overhaul for sure. Food was good. The male flight attendant was really nice.

My encounter with the entertainment services provided on board was moderate; the functionality of the Wi-Fi connection was either sluggish or nonoperational, while the display screens were antiquated and suffered from poor visibility. On the positive side, the cabin exuded a sense of expansiveness, and the crew exhibited amiable and accommodating behavior throughout the journey.

Everything was great except for some reason crew and ground crew could not figure out how to deal with an electric wheelchair and it delayed us 20-30mins. Was pretty frustrating for passengers and the captain.

Like the space, did not like the snack options, there was no power outlet in seats, no entertainment, no flyfi.

Traveling with JetBlue from NYC was convenient as accessing JFK airport was straightforward via the LIRR to the AirTrain. Maneuvering through the terminal was hassle-free, which was a pleasant start to the journey. However, the flight experience itself left much to be desired. The seating arrangement was notably uncomfortable; despite securing a window seat, space felt cramped. This was exacerbated by the middle seat passenger encroaching on my area, which made the flight less enjoyable. Additionally, while the in-flight entertainment system initially seemed like a reprieve, the sound outlet on my seat was inoperable. This issue turned what could have been a manageable three-hour flight into a rather tedious ordeal, as I was unable to use the entertainment system effectively. While JetBlue provided a smooth process in terms of airport logistics, the on-board experience highlighted areas in need of improvement, particularly in terms of comfort and entertainment system maintenance.

The flight crew that we had in our section may have been tired or something. I asked the flight attendant about my son’s screen not working and she spoke down to me like I was stupid. He still had no working screen throughout his flight. The other members had no personality and seemed like they were annoyed when you asked them for something. Definitely took a hit for simple things on my JB experience.

I volunteered to let them put my carry on suitcase in the baggage storage area. But when we landed I was told it was being unloaded IN A DIFFERENT TERMINAL! I had to walk (painful for me) a long way to retrieve my bag and my ride had to move from the waiting area they were in to a totally different one. Not happy.

Over 2 hour delay for a 50-minute flight is unacceptable, especially in normal weather. Very poor communication via app

In-flight staff was very helpful and excellent. However, the flight was delayed by 90 minutes. Also the boarding process should be expedited in case of delayed flights. This will help the passengers trying to make international connections.

They delayed our flight by 45 minutes and then re-updated the departure time back to normal schedule with no notification, email, or app update causing probably 40 people to miss the flight as they left without us.

I still prefer Delta, but Delta doesn’t fly to State College PA.

The seats on the aircraft are like sitting in a rock. During the boarding process they recognize Active Duty Military, why don’t they recognize Retired Military. I’ve always preferred Delta, this flight confirmed why I still prefer Delta.

The flight attendant was very kind and offered my son a snack for free.

Flight was quite late as there was no pilot Crew is usually excellent, this flight not as good as usual there were more mistakes, slower and less friendly service But honestly the aircraft was too cramped and uncomfortable for a 4 hour flying get so, do to the aircraft liability the very best you could ever do is mediocre.

To san Francisco it was ok. From sf to Manila it was horrible

They opened my checked bag and even though my lock was tsa approved, they loose my lock and left my bag just like that. Incompetent people, very upset about it. I’ll try to avoid traveling with united

The passenger in the row in front of me was listening to a political speech on his phone at full volume with no headphones and it was disturbing all of the passengers around him for several rows. I asked 2 of the flight attendants to speak to this passenger but they only shrugged. It was obvious that they were afraid there might be conflict and would not say anything. I had to take it upon myself to tell the passenger that he needed to turn it off or wear headphones as it was disturbing everyone around him not wearing their own headphones. I was very disappointed in the United flight attendants.

Flight was ok. Unfortunately it was a Boeing 737, which is a cramped / tight airplane. I prefer the Airbus as they are a more comfortable flight experience.

We fly to Ecuador frequently. Checking in is usually a hassle because most United agents take some time before they can verify that my passport doesn't require a visa to Ecuador. This time the process was even longer due to the cyber attack. But she was really nice to us. So glad we brought plenty of snacks to supplement the 3 flights from SEA to GYE.

Awful, rude staff. Their abrasive comments are unnecessary. Most seek a frictionless experience and will cooperate if you ask. Additional childish bullying of customers is not acceptable or tolerated. We had the same problem with our departure flight. We will never fly United again.

The flight was delayed till next day ! They kept delaying every 30 minutes then after 3 hours they delayed it till next day. We kept waiting in line standing more than an hour to get the hotel and meal vouchers. There was no communication at all. Everything was bad

Flight was on time, no drinks served on the two short flights. Comfortable seats.

This flight was fine but had no time to breathe as the connection was late from Sea to ORD.. Super stressful. If we checked bags, the trip would have been very distressed.

The one gate agent was very abrupt and rude. Not a good look for American for the day

It was late, then the bathroom was inoperable plus it was very hot as well. Plane was very old

Other than Charlotte airport being crowded and a mush of people at the gate and even through the priority lane, the flight was great.

This time there was nothing to be better, really! Boarding on time, taking off on time and arriving earlier. The only complain is about way too long line at pre-check security point at DFW. But this is the airport’s problem, not American Airline.

3 hours late. Second consecutive time this month that a flight from DFW was delayed 3+ hours.

Seats were very uncomfortable. I paid extra for a seat with more leg room, the seat was no different than a seat at the back of the plane. Flight attendant was rude.

Departure more than an hour later. Conexion/waiting time at the airport was more than 7 hours :(

Comfortable and plenty of. Having to buy water and coffee, though is ridiculous!

Better overall experience from my first flight with Spirit several years ago. Efficient boarding (albeit I arrived after all rows were called) and flight actually left earlier than planned. I am still baffled by being charged for everything, even a non-alcoholic beverage. And there is definitely less seat room which makes a flight that’s more than 2 hours really uncomfortable.

Check in was made easy with the ladies at the luggage. they were fast and so kind. You should pay them more.

This was the best spirit airlines fight I have ever had. I take spirit up to 3 or more times a year and I am ready to be the Jared of spirit. 🤪 Best flight ever. Everyone was great. I hope my return flight is the same. When you're traveling with a 9 month old you need a different type of care and accommodation. I didn't ask the staff for anything but I didn't have any added stress.

Purchasing tickets on their website is upsetting, they take the consumer for a ride...I wanted 2 tickets for me and my friend but we only had one carry on between the two of us. It was impossible to only pay for one - I had to pay for 2 carry ons and blew $50! Shame on their sleazy business practices! The seats in the airplane are shockingly uncomfortable! In the future I will only fly Spirit if I have no other reasonably priced choice. The flight and the crew were good. But still: Go Southwest Airlines!!!

Could at least have little recline in economy seats and windows to the last row, they were super uncomfortable and lots of chit chat and disturbance from the operation of crew members and other passengers

The plane crew made the decision to leave a LARGE group of us passengers who were stuck literally at the gate next to the Las Vegas flight & trying to get off. We were lied to & told the Vegas to Dallas plane was going to wait for us. I’m having to fly the whole night to my destination now because of this

Doubt that you care, the flight from OAK to Las Vegas took longer on the runway when we arrived. The flight attendants & pilot announced that they knew a lot of us were getting on a connection to Dallas & that it was waiting for us. Lied. Ended up having to take another layover & it’s added way more time to my flights. The ticketing staff at the gates were extremely rude. I don’t think I ever want to fly Spirit again.

Everyone on the plane was wonderful. I can't say that the trip of flying was wonderful because I hadn't done that since I was 13 years old. Honestly I was terrified. What would make it better is if they didn't drive so fast but I know they have to. And if they could go up slowly and land slowly. But none of that they can control.

Was told by one of the helpers at spirit in Detroit that I had to pay for my bag that could fit on the over head bin after I asked her repeatedly well what about the over head bin can’t my bag fit in there she said no I had to check it. Then sent me the long way to the tsa when my gate was the other way. I didn’t have that problem in Chicago.

Nothing about the flight was good. The crew was rude and unwilling to assist would never recommend this airline to anyone and for sure will not fly it again

The plane was very clean, the flight attendants were chipper and accommodating. It was roomy

There was extremely long wait times to check in my bags and pass through TSA. I almost missed my flights on several occasions.

I didn’t have enough time to catch my connecting flight and had to use a different Airline. I will be requesting a refund.

There were a lot of issues at the gate in Atlanta — which caused delays in boarding and getting to our destination. The aircraft and crew were excellent.

It was fine. The flight was delayed for 3 hours. I had things scheduled in Detroit, and I let a lot of people down by not being there on time.

First time experience and though you'll pay for *everything* meaning bags, water/snacks, even a question with a service agent - - all in all, not a bad experience whatsoever.

Long lines, rude staff, everything that's offered you have to pay for.

Among the worst flights I’ve taken. Never again. Staff was horrible across the entire Frontier workforce. Flight attendants were legitimately yelling at and arguing with each other while on board - toxic environment (really guys? at work and in front of customers no less?). Frontier intentionally assigned my partner and I (who booked together) to opposite ends of the plane despite plenty of seats together - straight up predatory practices to take people’s money. Seats are legit the absolute worst. Not even free coffee. Absolute garbage airline with wild hidden fees and the worst staff in the business. They will for sure have a deadly accident soon. Never again, not for any where not for any price.

My departure gate was E10 but no kiosk at E10 for check in & no one to ask. A United attendant helped direct us to E38 for check in. The kiosks at E38 were all malfunctioning. A counter agent had to check us in. We then had to walk back to E10 for boarding. E10 to E38 at DfW is not an easy trek. No where in all the info they sent us indicated there were issues to over come. They can cut only so many corners. Luckily we arrived plenty early to deal with Frontier’s inefficiency.

Book Cheap Hawaii Plane Tickets

Recent round-trip flight deals, search by stops, search by airline, search by price, recent one-way flight deals, last minute flights to hawaii, last minute flight, train and bus deals, everything you need to know for your flight to hawaii, complete your trip to hawaii with a hotel stay or car rental, flights to popular cities in hawaii, find deals for your return flight.

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

Haven't planned a date yet? Start here

Before You Travel

Safety tips, top activities in hawaii.

Start your trip out right by being welcomed to the island by Native Hawaiians with a Lei of your choice.

Lei Greeting $ --> $75.00

Airport Lei Greeting

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

Snorkeling Tours $ --> $99.00

Captain Cook Afternoon Snorkel

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

Dolphin Excursions $ --> $139.00

Dolphin Discovery Adventure

The Big Island has 10 of the world's 14 different climate zones, and Hapuna Beach sits right in the middle of a dry zone. This beach only ...

Top 5 Swimming Beaches on The Big Island

This journey provides intimate, unique access to volcanic sites.

Hiking $ --> $179.00

Hidden Craters Hike

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

Luaus $ --> $115.00

Myths of Maui Luau

Rainbow Kayak Tours/Ancient River Kayak is an all inclusive quality, guided tour company. Safety is our #1 priority along with exceptional ...

Kayaking $ --> $131.75

Rainbow Kayak Tours

Basically swimming inside the crater of an extinct volcano, snorkeling at Molokini Crater offers a stunning visibility of 150 feet! ...

The History of Molokini Crater

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

Fishing Excursions $ --> $155.00

Sport Fishing - 40' Egg Harbor

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

SCUBA Diving $ --> $155.00

Koloa Landing Shore Dives

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

Road to Hana

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

Paddle Boarding (SUP) $ --> $129.00

SUP Ala Moana Beach Park

If you are planning a trip to Maui in the next 12 months, you have to visit Haleakala National Park which is its biggest attraction. ...

Visiting the Haleakala Crater in Maui

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

Paddle Boarding (SUP) $ --> $109.00

SUP Pokai Bay

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

Sightseeing Boat Tours $ --> $189.00

Na Pali Coast Tour on the Makana. Max 12 passenger

The pristine coral gardens, brilliantly colored tropical fish, and the green sea turtles ( Honu) are not to be missed!

Snorkeling Tours $ --> $129.00

Capt. Cook AM Deluxe Snorkel Adventure

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

Shark Excursions $ --> $150.00

Shark Dive (Snorkel with Sharks)

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

Dolphin Excursions $ --> $189.00

Na Pali Coast Raft Adventure

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

Luaus $ --> $129.00

Ka Moana Luau Classic Seating

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

Surfing Lessons $ --> $139.00

Surf Ala Moana

Popular information.

The Big Island's defining feature is the best place to watch the sunset, but you need to be prepared. Standing more than 13,000 feet above ...

The Five Best Places to Watch the Sunset on The Big Island of Hawaii

Camping on Kauai? Well, you've picked the right island. Kauai is for the nature lover, the outdoor adventurer and for those who want to ...

Beach Camping on Kauai

Hawaii is one of the hottest destinations for vacations, honeymoons, and business trips, but what is there to do, once you get there?

Top 10 things to do on The Big Island

Kauai is The Garden Isle, and it's a fitting nickname. You'll be able to pick wild avocado, mango, star fruit, strawberry guava, longan, ...

The Ultimate Kauai Travel Guide

Sunsets are beautiful to see and especially in Oahu but sometimes its hard to find a great spot. We made a convenient list for you to find all see

Five Best Places to See a Sunset in Oahu

You can see a lot of the island from your car, and you'll find scenic landscapes in every direction. As you drive around the island, notice ...

Best Scenic Driving Tours in Kauai

Kauai is arguably Hawaii's most beautiful isle, but its incredible natural wonders are difficult to access, and often require an intrepid ...

Kauai's North Shore Has Reopened, But With Different Rules

Whichever island you choose, fight the urge to island hop between the two. Each island has so much to explore that you shouldn't sell ...

Should I Go To Oahu Or Kauai?

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How to Plan the Perfect Multi-island Trip to Hawaii

These eight tips will help you travel between Hawaii's islands with ease.

Matt Anderson Photography/Getty Images

The Hawaiian archipelago includes more than 100 islands, atolls, and islets. But if you’re planning a visit, don’t worry, as you need not plot a 100-island itinerary. With the majority of the islands uninhabited and inaccessible, you can focus on four of the eight largest islands: Kauai , Oahu , Maui, and the Island of Hawaii (often referred to as the Big Island), with the option to add on a few others.

Here are some tips for planning an epic multi-island trip to Hawaii .

Determine travel dates and destinations.

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Ideally, you should spend at least one week on each of the four islands. But if you don’t have a full month, plan for four to five days per island, then choose one or two regions within each. 

Make a list of things you want to do in order of importance. This will help you determine where to base yourself on each island and what to eliminate if needed. For example, if sleeping near an active volcano and night snorkeling with manta rays are two activities topping your list, book a couple of nights at the historic Volcano House — the only lodging within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park — on the Hilo side of the Island of Hawaii and a few nights at Mauna Kea Resort or The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort on the Kona side, where you can join a guided small group night snorkel with Manta Ray Advocates .

Don’t forget to factor in flight and drive times. Although some islands appear small on the map, weather, road conditions, and traffic can impact overall travel time. 

Also, consider when to go . Hawaii has microclimates, so weather can vary, but in general, summer is warm with minimal rainfall. This is ideal for beach lovers, but it’s also one of the peak travel times, with families visiting during summer break. Expect higher rates and larger crowds during this time, as well as the weeks surrounding major U.S. holidays such as Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. 

You may find lower rates and thinner crowds during the winter (with the exception of the holiday season), but the colder months are generally wetter, so if you’re traveling to Hawaii from November through March, be prepared for cooler temperatures, rain, and possible road closures and activity cancellations. The shoulder seasons from March to May (excluding spring break and Easter) and September to October tend to have comfortable weather conditions and slightly fewer crowds than peak seasons.

Identify your travel style.

Some travelers crave leisurely days at the beach, while others prefer an action-packed itinerary. Some gravitate toward lively, larger cities, while others enjoy slower-paced small towns . Discuss your expectations and interests with your travel companions so you can hone in on the regions, tours, and hotels best suited to you.

Do your research. I often hear visitors comment that Oahu is "too busy," yet they haven't ventured beyond Honolulu. Honolulu is the capital city and home to about one million people, so yes, it’s busy. Find an oasis amidst the chaos: With convenient locations, Espacio and The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach are tranquil retreats in the city. Or, if you’re not interested in the urban experience at all, skip the capital and head elsewhere on Oahu . 

You might be tempted to schedule every hour of your itinerary in order to make the most of your trip, but don’t overbook. Allow time for rest, and aim for balance, so you don't wind up exhausted. Follow an active day of touring with some leisure time or a spa treatment.

Plan your route.

Art Wager/Getty Images

Although you can start and end wherever you choose, it’s wise to look at flight schedules to plot an efficient route. Kauai is in the northwest, and the Island of Hawaii is in the southeast, so starting in Kauai and traveling southeast — to Oahu, Maui, and then the Island of Hawaii — makes sense logistically. It also provides variety, from the slower pace of Kauai to a mix of urban adventures and cruising the countryside on Oahu and Maui. You'll end with a bang on the Island of Hawaii, where you can feel the energy of volcanic activity. In this case, you’ll also be following the order in which the islands were formed, so it’s a great way to experience them from oldest to youngest and observe the geological evolution along the way. 

When booking flights, consider multicity rather than a round-trip option. If you’ll be traveling the Kauai to the Island of Hawaii route suggested above, you can arrive in Kauai, book onward interisland flights to Oahu, Maui, and the Island of Hawaii, then depart from Kona. Keep in mind that some interisland flights are not direct and may require a stopover in Honolulu or Kahului, for example, so be sure to check before booking. You can often secure direct interisland flights by choosing one that departs earlier in the day.

Enlist the help of experts.

Alec Fuller /Getty Images

While you can travel around the islands on your own, we recommend booking some guided experiences. Native Hawaiian guides and cultural practitioners, in particular, offer personal stories and context that will give you an entirely different — and much richer — experience. Plus, by booking with Native Hawaiian experts, you’re supporting the perpetuation of Hawaiian culture. 

Many hotels, like ‘Alohilani Resort and Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa on Oahu and Ka’anapali Beach Hotel on Maui, are increasingly providing complimentary, Native Hawaiian-led activities that include hula, Hawaiian language lessons, lei-making sessions, and sunrise ceremonies. Other properties, like Timbers and Kukui’ula on Kauai, offer farm tours to acquaint guests (and their taste buds) with the abundance of plants and produce grown there. Some hotels, including Halekulani , provide private tours or discounted or free entrance to local sites of significance such as Bishop Museum , Iolani Palace , and Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, Culture, and Design . Be sure to ask about these offerings prior to booking your hotels. 

When it comes to physical activities such as hiking, guided tours with reputable operators like Kauai Hiking Tours help ensure your safety. And in some cases, a guided tour can afford access to extraordinary places, like Hualalai crater, a sacred site located on private land that only two tour operators — Uluha'o O Hualalai and Hawaii Forest & Trail — have permission to reach. (For a beachside stay nearby, check out Four Seasons Resort Hualalai ).

Some expert-led trips from operators such as Kailani Tours can also help you maximize your time by bringing you to a variety of sites in one day, allowing you to enjoy the ride rather than worry about logistics and navigation. 

Make reservations.

Westend61/Getty Images

Many popular places such as Hanauma Bay on Oahu now require reservations, and popular tours, including sunrise at Haleakalā on Maui and sunset at Mauna Kea on the Island of Hawaii, often sell out, so it’s best to book as far in advance as possible. Arnott’s Adventures offers sunset and stargazing tours from Hilo, and if you’re on the Kona side, check out Hawaii Forest & Trail’s Summit & Stars Give Back Experience .

You should also secure dinner reservations so you don’t miss out on your top choices or waste time waiting for a table. And don’t forget car rentals for each island, too; these do sell out and — with the exception of Honolulu, where shuttles, public buses, and ride-share options are available — it can be difficult and expensive to get around without your own wheels. 

Pack your bags.

milan2099/Getty Images

One of the biggest mistakes people make when traveling to Hawaii is assuming it’s always sunny and warm. If you’re planning to visit multiple islands, you’ll likely encounter a variety of microclimates and changing weather conditions. Come prepared with layers and appropriate footwear for your activities, and always pack a rain jacket. And, of course, pack a Hawaiian shirt or two.

Bring binoculars, too, to get a better view of wildlife such as endemic birds and migrating whales, as well as dynamic landscapes. If you’re fortunate enough to witness volcanic activity, you’ll be happy to have these on hand for a close-up view of bubbling lava. Some tours do include outdoor gear and equipment; inquire when booking. 

Consider additional islands.

John Elk/Getty Images

If you have time and want to add another island to your trip, there are a few options available to visitors. You can take the ferry from Maui to Lanai for a day trip or spend a night or two and sink into that relaxed island life. 

If you’re interested in visiting Kalaupapa National Historical Park on Molokai, allow a few extra days. Keep in mind that flights to Molokai are limited, and as the island is home to vulnerable kupuna (elderly people), it's slowly reopening to visitors since the pandemic started.

If you prefer a private tour to a neighboring island, Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea can charter a yacht or helicopter from Maui to Lanai or Molokai. 

Although you’re not permitted to step ashore on Ni'ihau, the “Forbidden Island,” without an invitation, you can snorkel the waters nearby on a Holo Holo Charters Super Tour . 

Travel with aloha. 

rebelml/Getty Images

For you, Hawaii may be a dream destination. For those who live here, it's home and, for many, sacred. Travel with respect : Stay on marked trails, don’t enter private property, obey warnings (from posted signs, lifeguards, and law enforcement), and be mindful that the environment is fragile and the land has cultural, spiritual, and ecological significance.

Be flexible, too. Don’t be attached to a particular expectation or activity. Sometimes, plans change due to weather (like that time I flew to Kauai to see the famed cliffs of the Nā Pali Coast and colors of Waimea Canyon, only to find it all covered in clouds and fog). If you’re lucky enough to visit Hawaii, embrace the unexpected, stay present, and aim to enjoy the experience — rain or shine. 

Related Articles

Cost of a Trip to Hawaii & the Cheapest Time to Visit Hawaii

The average price of a 7-day trip to Hawaii is $2,023 for a solo traveler, $2,986 for a couple, and $4,371 for a family of 4 . Hawaii hotels range from $96 to $433 per night with an average of $177, while most vacation rentals will cost $270 to $810 per night for the entire home. Average worldwide flight costs to Hawaii (from all airports) are between $968 and $1,580 per person for economy flights and $3,040 to $4,961 for first class. Depending on activities, we recommend budgeting $74 to $150 per person per day for transportation and enjoying local restaurants.

See below for average , budget , and luxury trip costs. You can also look up flight costs from your airport for more tailored flight pricing.

The Cheapest Times to Visit Hawaii

On average, these will be the cheapest dates to fly to Hawaii and stay in a Hawaii hotel:

• January 8th to March 4th
• August 13th to December 9th (except the week of November 19th)

The absolute cheapest time to take a vacation in Hawaii is usually early September .

Average Hawaii Trip Costs

Average solo traveler.

The average cost for one person to visit Hawaii for a week is $1,783-$3,849 ($255-$550 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $74 to $150 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $545 to $1,347 for economy

Lodging : $120 to $169 per night for one 2 or 3-star hotel room

or $198 to $242 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Average Couple’s Trip

The average cost for a couple to visit Hawaii for a week is $2,845-$6,246 ($406-$892 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $148 to $300 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,089 to $2,694 for economy

Average Family Vacation

The average cost for 4 people to visit Hawaii for a week is $5,691-$11,772 ($813-$1,682 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $296 to $600 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $2,179 to $5,388 for economy

Lodging : $240 to $339 per night for two 2 or 3-star hotel rooms

or $298 to $364 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Traveling Cheap to Hawaii

How cheap can you make a vacation to Hawaii? The cheapest trip to Hawaii is about $185 per person per day for travelers willing to take standby flights, deal with inconvenience, and otherwise limit travel expenses. About 1% of rentals are available in the $0 to $100 range for an entire place, and vacation rentals can be booked for as low as $20 per night. These inexpensive rentals must be booked as early as possible and may not be in the most desirable areas. 1-star hotels are more likely to be available, with rooms starting at around $82.

Even cheaper trips are possible depending on where you live and whether you can drive. Check the cheapest times to fly for more saving ideas.

Budget Solo Traveler

The lowest cost for one person to visit Hawaii for a week is $1,296-$2,950 ($185-$421 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $37 to $73 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Lodging : $82 to $96 per night for one 1-star hotel room

or $151 to $182 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Budget Couple’s Trip

The lowest cost for a couple to visit Hawaii for a week is $2,092-$4,815 ($299-$688 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $73 to $147 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Budget Family Vacation

The lowest cost for 4 people to visit Hawaii for a week is $4,192-$9,095 ($599-$1,299 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $147 to $293 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Lodging : $164 to $192 per night for two 1-star hotel rooms

or $227 to $276 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Overall it is very difficult to travel to Hawaii cheaply.

The Cost of a Luxury Hawaii Trip

There is no true ceiling on the cost of a luxury trip, so our estimates are based on what most people do in Hawaii.

Luxury Solo Traveler

The high-end price for one person to visit Hawaii for a week is $3,863-$14,748 ($552-$2,107 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $151 to $298 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,360 to $3,308 for first class

Lodging : $241 to $433 per night for one 4 or 5-star hotel room

or $794 to $1,559 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Luxury Couple’s Trip

The high-end price for a couple to visit Hawaii for a week is $6,280-$20,135 ($897-$2,876 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $302 to $595 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $2,720 to $6,616 for first class

Luxury Family Vacation

The high-end price for 4 people to visit Hawaii for a week is $12,559-$35,512 ($1,794-$5,073 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $604 to $1,190 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $5,439 to $13,232 for first class

Lodging : $482 to $866 per night for two 4 or 5-star hotel rooms

or $1,191 to $2,325 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Hawaii Hotel Prices

The cost of staying in Hawaii is much higher than the average city. On average hotels are less expensive than vacation rentals. Luxury vacation rentals are more expensive in Hawaii due to very high property costs. The graphs below show how much cost can vary depending on the type of experience you’re looking for.

Hawaii Lodging Cost by Star Status

The average price for the class of hotel is on the (y) axis. The hotel class (out of 5 stars) is on the (x) axis.

Prices are based on Hawaii hotel averages and may not reflect current prices. In some cases, we extrapolate prices to estimate costs, and hotels with your desired star rating may not be available.

Vacation Rental Prices

The percent of vacation rentals in the price range is on the left (y) axis. Price range is on the bottom (x) axis.

There are a healthy amount of vacation rentals serving all budgets in Hawaii.

Flight Costs to Hawaii

Averaging flights around the world, prices go from a high of $1,580 average in late December to a low of $968 in early September. Median flight price is $963. These prices are based on millions of flights. For Hawaii our data includes hundreds of originating airports, and dozens of airlines. The area has more variance in price compared with other locations.

Average Flight Cost by Season

Average flight cost by day of week.

The cheapest day to fly in is typically Tuesday, and the cheapest day to fly back is usually Tuesday. Click here to see data for the cost of flights from your airport. In Hawaii, the difference between the cheapest and the most expensive week is about $612, so you can easily save about 63% simply by using our free flight guides and booking in advance.

Daily Expenses Budget

Daily vacation expenses vary more based on what you’re interested in doing. A fine dining restaurant with drinks around Hawaii can easily cost $551 per person or more, while a standard nice meal might be about $37 per person. Private tours can cost $1100 per day, but self-guided tours to see the outdoor sights can be free. Costs vary wildly, so recommendations are made based on the cost of living and averages we see for this type of vacation.

Other Hawaii Guides

Travel costs nearby.

• Lanai, HI, US
• Lanai City, HI, US
• Molokai, HI, US
• Maunaloa, HI, US
• Kaunakakai, HI, US
• Lahaina, HI, US
• Downtown Lahaina, HI, US
• Kahoolawe, the United States
• Wailuku, HI, US
• Maalaea, HI, US

Travel Costs in Popular Places

• Kyoto, Japan
• Taitung, Taiwan
• Phan Thiet, Vietnam

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

Maggie Senor

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

Adventure Travel

Couples Travel

Luxury Travel

Hawai'i

Curator’s statement

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

The Fora Difference

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

Killer perks

Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you

Personalized recs

Customized travel planning for your style

Insider knowledge

Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there

Where to stay

The ritz-carlton o‘ahu, turtle bay.

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

$100 food / beverage credit.

Breakfast daily.

Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki

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

$100 hotel / resort credit.

Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Waikiki Beach

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

Welcome amenities.

ESPACIO The Jewel of Waikiki

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

Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, Autograph Collection

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

Fairmont Orchid Hawaii

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

Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection

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

Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort

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

Unlock perks by contacting Maggie to book your trip.

Get in touch with Maggie

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

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

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

Day 1: Arrival

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

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

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

Dinner at Beach House by Roy Yamaguchi , onsite at hotel

Day 2-3: Relax, explore & eat

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

Options to fill your days:

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

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

Feel like leaving the hotel for a bit? Head east for another scenic drive along the North Shore! Some ideas include:

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

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

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

Day 4: Drive to Waikiki

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

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

Grab breakfast on the road!

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

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

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

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

Grab lunch in Pupukea at their Roadside Food Court.

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

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

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

Visit Waimea Falls

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

Stop and rest at Laniakea Beach, another great spot for snorkeling AND have a possible turtle sighting!

Explore, shop and dine in the town of Hale’iwa. Some dinner/drinks options include:

Uncle Bo's Haleiwa

Teddy's Bigger Burgers

Banzai Sushi Bar

Check in to your hotel on Waikiki beach. My personal favorites include:

The Royal Hawaiian, A Luxury Collection Resort

Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa

Day 5: Hike Diamond Head

Take a hike! – I mean that literally :)

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

Afterwards, h ead to Island Brew Coffee House for a post-hike breakfast (great coffee, even better avocado toast!)

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

Back in Waikiki for dinner

Paia Fish Market, Waikiki

Duke's Waikiki

OR at one of your hotel's onsite restaurants

Day 6: Final morning on Oahu, then off to Big Island!

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

Options for your last morning/afternoon on Oahu:

Hike Koko Railway Crater (a relic of World War II, the military constructed Koko Head Railway to transport supplies and soldiers. Now the former railway is used as steps to support this extreme incline of this 1.4 mile hike)

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

Some designer brands at Luxury Row in Waikiki

Visit Pearl Harbor

OAHU → BIG ISLAND

Take an afternoon flight to Kona Airport

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

Fairmont Orchid - Hawaii

Grab dinner onsite at your hotel!

Day 7: Kona

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

Then kayak to Captain Cook’s Monument.

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

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

Other Dining/Drinking options in Kona include:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 8-10: Island Adventures

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book a Sunset + Stargazing Tour of Mauna Kea

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

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

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

Sunshower Farms

Uncle Kimo’s Coffee Shop

Holualoa Kona Coffee Co.

Need to know

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

Travel Advisor

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

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

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

How Much Does a Trip To Hawaii Cost for a Family of Four (2024 prices)

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

Visitors to Hawaii returned faster than many travel experts expected in 2022. The high demand and inflation resulted in the cost of a Hawaii vacation increasing in 2023. Lucky for you, how much a trip to Hawaii costs for a family of four has gone down in 2024!

Let’s look at previous years for some perspective. In 2019 we estimated that a comparable mid-range trip to Hawaii would cost $10,100 for a family of four. In 2021 the same trip cost $8,914. The price increased 37 percent in 2022 to $12,239 as demand for Hawaii vacations surged once travel restrictions ended. In 2023 that number climbed to $13,493.

So how much does a trip to Hawaii cost for a family of four in 2024? A 10-day trip to Hawaii in June 2024 for a family of four is quoted to cost $11,321.

Of course, a Hawaii vacation is never particularly cheap, but it’s not often that we get to report a decrease in the cost. In fact, it’s gone down by 16% from 2023 which is a refreshing change in pace as we see our day-to-day lives becoming more expensive than ever.

Here is what a trip to Hawaii costs in 2024 for a family of four:

Read on for details on the quotes and ways to save on your Hawaii vacation.

We know you’re here for some travel tricks, and we have your back: – If you’re looking for the cost for two, we’ve covered that here . – We’ve figured out how to get some of the best airfare prices available. – We’re here to help you decide whether a hotel or vacation rental is right for you. – Don’t overspend on a rental car in Hawaii again. – Oh, and did we mention our coupon codes ?

How Much Does a Trip to Hawaii Cost For a Family of Four in 2024?

To get to our estimate of $11,321, we used the following assumptions:

• A 10-night trip to Oahu
• Flights leaving from Los Angeles ( 25% of domestic flights to Hawaii leave from LAX)
• A family of four includes two adults and two children
• Trip booking for mid-June 202 4
• Staying in a value hotel in Waikiki (central location and best prices)

As stated above, the average trip to Hawaii cost for a family of four came to $11,321. That’s $2,830 per person. 

For our cost estimates, we averaged hotel prices on Expedia for a non-ocean view room, car rental prices from Hawaii Discount Car Rental, airplane tickets using our booking method , and a few of our favorite Oahu tours and activities .

Oahu is the most visited Hawaiian Island, the Cheapest Hawaiian Island to Visit , and Waikiki is the best place to stay on Oahu in price and location (in our opinion). Hence, we used Oahu for our cost estimate.

For a 10-day trip, you may want to consider a 10-Day Oahu and Maui Itinerary . See our Hawaii island-hopping guide for info.

Of course, there are ways to do this trip cheaper (think: glamping on Maui ) and there are ways to make this trip much more expensive. But this is a pretty reasonable cost estimate for a mid-priced vacation that you’ll love.

The summer of 2023 saw a near return to 2019 visitor counts by the summer, pre-pandemic levels.

See our recommendations below on how to save money on your 2024 Hawaii Vacation. Then sign up for our Hawaii Travel Newsletter to stay up to date on visiting Hawaii this year.

Here’s how costs break down for our 10-day trip to Oahu in June.

Cost of Airfare to Hawaii

You can find some great deals on airfare right now to Hawaii. The low-cost carriers to Hawaii are Southwest Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and Hawaiian Airlines. See our article How to Get a Cheap Ticket to Hawaii .  Personally, we like Hawaiian Airlines as they make it feel like your Hawaii vacation has started when you board.

Roundtrip flights from Los Angeles to Honolulu (HNL) for mid-June (as of January 2024):

• Hawaiian Airlines $2,426
• Southwest $1,898
• United Airlines $1,710

The average cost of airfare to Hawaii: $2,011 for four people

Hotel on Oahu

The biggest chunk of your budget is going to be spent on lodging. The majority of people who come to Hawaii stay in a hotel over a vacation rental. In June 2022, data from the Hawaii Tourism Authority showed that 67 percent of visitors stayed in a hotel vs a vacation in Hawaii .

So for this, we used nightly rates for staying in some of our favorite value hotels in Waikiki for 10 nights. The quotes are for a non-ocean view, standard room. Click the hotel links to learn more about the hotels.

• Hilton Hawaiian Village $302
• Queen Kapi’olani Hotel $355
• Waikiki Beachcomber by Outrigger $268 per night ( watch our video tour )
• The Laylow, Autograph Collection $305 per night

Just like with most places, hotel prices can range. You have budget accommodations and luxury resorts. For your interest, luxury Oahu resorts are quoted below.

For luxury resorts on Oahu, the nightly rates for June were the following:

• Royal Hawaiian Hotel : $438
• Turtle Bay Resort (North Shore): $ 679
• Disney Aulani (Ko Olina): $ 839

These prices include taxes and a resort fee. Taxes and resort fees can be 20% to 30% of the total cost of your stay. Because there is such a wide range of prices, we averaged the value-hotel total costs.

Total hotel costs for four people: $ 4,136

Related articles:

• The Best Affordable Family Resorts in Hawaii Your Kids Will Love
• The 7 Best Family-Friendly Hotels on Oahu
• Why are Hotels So Expensive in Hawaii? (clever ways to save!)
• 6 Best Big Island Luxury Hotels

Your lodging will be your biggest expense when you visit Hawaii. 2023 experienced a surge in hotel rates, especially during the summer, as visitor demand increased to the islands. Our 2024 quoted hotel rates are slightly lower than 2023 summer hotel prices, per the chart below.

If you’re looking for a luxury resort or a value hotel, we have some ideas for you. Check out the videos below of Waikiki resorts and hotels from your favorite YouTubers.

You can technically skip the car rental and save on this cost, but there is so much to do and see on Oahu, we recommend sticking with a rental car for at least part of your stay. Yes, it can be frustrating to pay for nightly parking charges, but if you plan to see a lot and drive to different spots on the island, a rental car is well worth it.

To help save money, we book our rental cars through Discount Hawaii Car Rental . We always get the best prices and you reserve a car with the major car rental companies. There’s also no need to pre-pay your reservation. 

On an average trip, we usually save $60-$75 per week booking with Discount Hawaii Car Rental . But on a trip to the big island over New Year’s Eve, we saved over $300!

For this estimate, we used Discount Hawaii Car Rental and received a price for a 10-day rental in a standard-size car to be $546 (half the price compared to 2023!).

Let’s factor in a tank of gas for $100 and parking fees at a Waikiki hotel. The parking fees, even without valet, are stiff at $45 a night. The total for parking and fuel is $550

Total rental car costs: $ 1, 096

Hawaii car rental guides:

• How To Get Around Maui Without a Car
• How to Get Around Oahu
• 7-Day Oahu Itinerary Without a Rental Car

Just when you think that you’ve paid for all of the expensive things on your trip, think again. Eating out in Hawaii is expensive.

Even hitting the food trucks ( Maui food trucks and Kauai food trucks are the best!) can add up to a considerable amount (though they’re delicious and worth it). 

But because we’re estimating the total cost of a 10-day trip, we have to include food. The average dinner can run $50 – $100 per person, depending on the type of restaurant and the number of beverages ordered. 

At Duke’s in Waikiki, for example, a fish entree is $34 – $39. Add in a drink, tax, and tip, and you’ve spent $70 without trying. Add on an appetizer or dessert and the bill climbs. 

Across the street at Paia Fish Market, you can get a less expensive meal, but an entree will still cost $15 – $20.

All that to say we estimate an adult will spend $75 per day on food and a child eating off the kid’s menu (keiki menu) will spend $30 per day. Costs are obviously less if you’re staying at a vacation rental and not eating out.

We think it’s safe to say you’ll spend around $210 per day on food for four people, with a comfortable budget. 

Total food costs: $2,100

The last and possibly most exciting money you’ll spend on the trip will be on your activities. There are plenty of free and cheap things to do in Hawaii, so this category is a little challenging to estimate. Hiking is free , snorkeling is inexpensive ( Oahu has good snorkeling ), and even visiting the Pearl Harbor National Memorial is free.

Our Oahu Itinerary highlights the free or low-cost things to do, it isn’t full of paid activities!

So you can either go all out and spend a ton on activities, spend next to nothing, or somewhere in between. 

If this is your first trip to Hawaii , you may want to do a few special things. We recommend the following activities for 2 adults and 2 kids . These were selected from our favorite Oahu vetted and tested Oahu tours and activities .

• Kualoa Ranch’s UTV Jurassic Valley Tour : $ 450
• Polynesian Cultural Center Ali’i Luau Package : $ 765
• Ko Olina Adventure Snorkel & Sailing Tour : $763 

The cost for these three activities is $1,978 (gratuity not included). Consider adding a tip for the guided tours of $10 to $20 per person.

Total activities cost: $ 1, 978

The Polynesian Cultural Center is a lot of fun and educational for kids and adults. See our Ali’i Luau vs Gateway Buffet article for ways to save and see what package is best. Booking with our direct Polynesian Cultural Center link here includes a discount on packages.

Explore all our favorite Oahu luaus here!

More things to do in Hawaii:

• 23 Best Things to Do on Oahu with Kids
• 68 Things to Do on Maui with Kids
• 24 Things to Do on Kauai with Kids
• 12 Epic Things to Do in Kona with Kids

Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary

Maui Wayfinder Itinerary

Kauai Wayfinder Itinerary

Cruising Hawaii Guide

Big Island Wayfinder Itinerary

How to cut costs on your trip to hawaii without sacrificing fun.

Now that you know how much a trip to Hawaii costs for a family of four, are there ways that you can save? Here are tried and tested ways to save on a trip to Hawaii. 

Don’t forget to check our Hawaii Vacation Guide Coupon Codes to find deals on snorkel tours to shave ice (most discounts are on Maui).

Also, our Planning a Trip to Hawaii: 15 Essential Details for more information can be a huge help for your Hawaii family planning!

Stay in a Vacation Rental

I love a good resort experience and most visitors stay in a resort when they come to Hawaii. But if a family really wants to save money, a vacation rental can offer significant savings. The best savings are on Waikiki vacation rentals, you may find more expensive options on Maui and Kauai, for example.

It would be a safe estimate to say that staying in a vacation rental during this trip can easily save you $1,200 – $2,000. 

There are pros and cons to staying in a vacation rental and we’ve laid them all out in this video Where to Stay in Hawaii: Hotels vs Vacation Rentals . 

Costco Hawaii Vacation Packages

A Costco Hawaii vacation package can be a good way to save money on your Hawaii vacation if you book flights, hotel, and a car rental with them. 

Our community member James T. found booking his Hawaii vacation with Costco saved him about 30% compared to Expedia and Orbitz. 

There are drawbacks, like a strict cancellation policy, so see our article below for details.

Related article: Costco Hawaii Vacation Review: 9 Things to Know Before You Buy

Travel to Hawaii with Points and Miles

My partner Erica and I have made traveling our passion and one of our biggest expenses in life. No regrets! We travel throughout the Hawaiian Islands, of course, but we have also been around the world a few times. With all this traveling, we were always nervous about taking advantage of points and rewards offered through credit cards.

A great way to save on your trip to Hawaii, if you have good credit and know how to use credit cards responsibly, is to use credit card and hotel points and rewards for free travel to Hawaii. Our goal this year is to save $2,000 a year on travel around Hawaii and trips to visit family on the mainland. To do this, we have signed up with Zac at Travel Freely. Zac is an expert on using points and rewards for free travel. We have partnered with him to share his resources with our community.

For example, Travel Freely members have saved $7,400+ and $9,500+ on their trips to Hawaii. See the articles below for details as it is totally doable.

• Member Success Story: Travel Freely Members Save $7,400+ on Anniversary Trip to Hawaii!
• Member Success Story: Travel Freely Members saved $9,500+ on a 10-day Trip to Hawaii!

This isn’t overnight savings, but as most people plan more than 6-months in advance for a trip to Hawaii, using points & miles is a good way to save on a trip to Hawaii. I recommend becoming a Travel Freely member (FREE) for free video tutorials and info to learn of the best cards and programs to get to Hawaii. Sign up to be a Travel Freely member here .

We now have the Travel Freely app that we use to track our credit cards and maximize the rewards. Also free to download and use.

Travel During Hawaii’s Shoulder Seasons

The majority of visitors to Hawaii come either in the summer or the winter . It makes sense: if you have kids in school your options to travel are limited. But those are also the most expensive times to travel to Hawaii. 

Costs dip considerably if you visit in September and October or April and May. Not only that, but the weather is generally better during these months and you’ll escape the most crowded months. See our Best Time to Visit Hawaii for details.

If you can, planning a trip to Hawaii during the shoulder months could save you a lot of money.

Luxury Vacation to Hawaii for Less

There are a lot more ways to save on a trip to Hawaii. If staying in a value hotel in Waikiki doesn’t sound like your type of family vacation, see our How to Have a Luxury Hawaii Vacation for Less: 12 Ways to Save .

If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii for the first time, download our FREE Hawaiian Island Cheat Sheets . These downloadable or printable one-page cheat sheets will get you familiar with the islands. Especially if you are trying to figure out which island to visit! We have a quiz on that!

Free Download!

Hawaiian island cheat sheets.

Sign up & we’ll send you our island cheat sheets so you can get to know the islands like the back of your hand!

We’ll share 4 can’t-miss activities on each island, a map with the main sights in town, & famous local grindz (eats)!

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

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14 Critical Things to Know BEFORE Planning a Hawaii Trip

Are you planning your first hawaii vacation and want some helpful hawaii travel tips find out things that no one tells you before planning a hawaii trip, this post about planning a hawaii trip 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..

I’ve been going to Hawaii for vacations since I was a kid. I know how lucky I was to have so many opportunities to explore the Hawaiian islands.

But because I’ve been going for the past 25 years, there are a lot of Hawaii travel tips that I’ve picked up along the way while traveling all the Hawaiian islands.

In fact, I didn’t even realize most of these were things the average tourist didn’t already know before going on their Hawaii trips.

So, I figured I’d break down the most crucial things I think travelers should know before planning a Hawaii vacation (and dispel a few rumors in the process!)

Keep scrolling to take a look at how to plan a trip to Hawaii like a pro!

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.

What to Know Before Planning a Hawaii Trip

1. you can’t drive between the hawaii islands.

One of the top things people ask me is “Can you drive island to island in Hawaii?”

The answer is a simple no. The islands are much too far apart to drive and there are no bridges between islands in Hawaii.

There also isn’t a statewide ferry. There was the Super Ferry many years ago that was short-lived. Additionally, there used to be a ferry to Molokai, but that’s no longer running. Right now, there’s only the Lanai ferry from Maui, but it’s just for people.

So, if you want to travel between islands during your vacation in Hawaii, you’ll need to island hop in Hawaii via airplane.

There are tons of inter-island flights each day between the Hawaiian islands. While the main hub is at the Honolulu International Airport, each island offers some inter-island flights. It’s the easiest way to see more than one island.

2. Avoid Golden Week

It’s really tricky to take vacations if you live in Japan. You have to request them really far in advance.

But, there’s a thing called Golden Week where people in Japan have 4 holidays off from work. That makes it a very popular time to plan a Hawaiian vacation. That’s because it’s the shortest flight to get to the United States from Japan.

Golden Week happens at the end of April and early May (in 2022, it’s April 29-May 5.) And Hawaii is flooded with Japanese tourists. This is not the best time to visit Hawaii.

I recommend avoiding Golden Week (especially if you’re heading to Oahu ) because it will be tricky to find hotel rooms, beaches will be crowded, and you might not get to do all the tours or attractions you want.

Plus, the prices of hotel rooms seem to skyrocket for vacations to Hawaii that week. Do yourself a favor and check the dates before you book to save yourself some money.

3. Save Money with Companion Fares

The flights to Hawaii can be really expensive from anywhere on the Mainland, even if you travel during shoulder season (mid-April to June and September to mid-December).

One of my biggest Hawaii tips for saving money is to get an Alaska Airlines credit card. It comes with the Alaska Airlines companion fare, which is basically a BOGO deal for plane tickets. Well, you’ll pay full price for the first ticket and then just $99 for the second ticket.

My husband and I each have a card and we’re able to get our airplane tickets to Hawaii for half price because of it.

Alaska Airlines has a ton of direct flights to all the main 4 Hawaiian islands and they offer competitive rates.

We’ve flown almost all the airlines that go to Hawaii (we still need to try Southwest) and Alaska Airlines is by far our favorite. I think it’s the best way to visit Hawaii.

4. Most Sunscreen is Illegal

In Hawaii, any sunscreen that isn’t reef-safe is banned from the Hawaiian islands. That’s because preserving Hawaii’s incredible sea life is a priority for the state.

So, when you are packing for Hawaii , you’ll want to make sure to only bring reef-safe sunscreen .

Our favorite reef-safe sunscreen is the Babyganics sunscreen spray . I started buying it when my oldest was a baby and now our whole family uses it. Find the best prices here.

While some mineral-based sunscreen can leave a chalky white residue, the Babyganics spray sunscreen soaks right in and offers awesome protection.

If you aren’t sure if your sunscreen is reef-safe, just wait to buy it in Hawaii. You can be assured that all sunscreen for sale in the Hawaii islands is reef-safe. But, it’s usually more expensive to buy it at hotel gift shops (so head to Walmart or Target instead).

5. You’ll Probably Need a Rental Car

Unless you are staying in Waikiki, you really do need to rent a car in Hawaii . That’s because most of the tours and shuttles pretty much just pick up from Waikiki hotels. So you’ll want to look into Hawaii car rentals.

There are Uber drivers on Oahu (primarily in Waikiki), but it’s really hit/miss on all the other islands and you won’t want to have to rely on that as your main source of transportation.

The best way to travel in Hawaii is definitely driving on your own.

So, make sure to budget a car rental for all (or at least most) of your trip to Hawaii.

And keep in mind that it does cost more to rent a car in Hawaii if you are under 25 years old. It’s best to book Hawaii rental cars well in advance to get the best price and availability.

The best place to rent a car in Hawaii is through Discount Hawaii Car Rental . They get amazing deals from top brands like Alamo, Thrifty, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, and Payless. Check out the latest rental cars available and more details.

6. Rush Hour is Brutal

All the islands experience horrible traffic in the morning and at night. Keep this in mind when choosing where to stay in Hawaii.

Think about where you want to go in Hawaii first and then plan to stay closest to your activities. Otherwise, you may be stuck in traffic anytime you want to leave your hotel.

This also means you’ll want to give yourself plenty of time to get to any scheduled activities.

We almost missed our Oahu luau because I didn’t realize it would take almost 2 hours to get from Waikiki to the North Shore in the evening.

Hawaii is also known for having a ton of year-round road construction.

Get My FREE Hawaii e-Book!

Our exclusive Ultimate Guide to Family-Friendly Activities in Hawaii is your treasure map to the most exciting, kid-approved adventures across the islands.

7. Don’t End Your Trip with a Spa Day

Yes, we might have learned this the hard way.

If you live somewhere that isn’t as sunny as Hawaii, chances are you will get sunburned at some point during your trip.

It’s really easy to fall asleep when sunbathing, forget to re-apply sunscreen when swimming, or being on a boat where you don’t even realize you are getting sunburned.

That’s why I suggest you do spa treatments early in the trip.

You definitely don’t want to get a massage (or a body scrub) when your skin is so sensitive.

Instead, kick off your trip with some spa time BEFORE you have a chance to get sunburned.

8. Hawaii is Expensive

I know the Hawaii islands have a reputation for being expensive, and that’s because it’s true. And not just in terms of hotels or airfare.

Almost everything in Hawaii is imported from somewhere else. That’s how it goes for island destinations.

Simple groceries like cereal or milk will give you sticker shock. And you’ll have to pay to park just about everywhere in Waikiki.

All these little things do add up.

I don’t say this to scare you and there are tons of tips for traveling to Hawaii on a budget , but it’s important to create a realistic Hawaii travel budget. All our trips to Hawaii seem to have hidden costs we weren’t expecting.

9. Decide Between Condo or Hotel

One of the fun things about planning a Hawaiian vacation is figuring out where to stay .

Not only does Hawaii have some incredible luxury resorts, but there’s also a ton of options for condos or vacation rental homes throughout the islands.

There are lots of pros and cons to staying in a condo vs hotel in Hawaii .

If you want to save money by cooking your own food or want a place with separate bedrooms, condos are a great option.

But, hotels and luxury resorts usually have on-site restaurants, kid-friendly amenities, amazing pools, and sometimes even have a luau . And some offer Hawaii vacation packages that are a really good deal.

Some resorts even have condo options available, so it’s a lot to explore!

Find out the best Hawaii hotels for families !

10. You’ll Need to Bring Your Own Bags

If this is your first time to Hawaii, you might end up having to awkwardly carry items you buy in Hawaii.

That’s because Hawaii banned the use of plastic bags years ago.

So, if you are planning on shopping in Hawaii (even the grocery store), you’ll need to bring your own bags.

Some gift shops will sell you a small paper bag, but many don’t even have that option.

We always pack a few nylon bags that fold up compactly and stick them in our suitcases. They come in handy as easy beach bags, too. Find the best prices here.

11. Hawaii isn’t a Weekend Trip

I remember being in high school when a friend told me he was going to head to Hawaii for the weekend because his mom had a work thing there.

Having been to Hawaii probably 10 times by then, I didn’t really know how to respond. But my first thought was that it sounded like a total whirlwind.

See, it’s a 6-hour flight from the West Coast and it will take some time to get to your hotel or vacation rental.

It takes people an average of 7 days to actually start relaxing on vacation (instead of stressing about school or work.)

And, you’ll really want at least 4-7 days per island. Staying a shorter amount of time than that (especially for a first trip) will leave you feeling disappointed that you couldn’t stay longer.

The ideal Hawaii vacation is actually about 10 days.

12. Front Load Your Hawaii Itinerary

I admit people tend to call me a “planner” and I don’t mind it one bit. When you’re planning a trip to Hawaii , you’ll want to make sure there’s enough time to do the things on your list.

When you plan a vacation to Hawaii , you’ll want to schedule your most important activities first, in case they get canceled due to rain or weather conditions. That way, you still have time in your trip to reschedule them.

We usually leave at least the last 3 days completely free of plans. Then, we can decide what we want to do.

Usually, we end up going back to eat at some of our favorite places, picking up souvenirs , and just relaxing by the pool.

13. Learn Some Simple Hawaiian Words

One of my favorite things about visiting Hawaii is seeing how they incorporate Hawaiian words and terms into everyday life.

So, when you’re planning a Hawaii vacation, be sure to take a few moments to learn some important words in the Hawaiian language.

The Hawaiian word for children is “keiki” and so you’ll want to ask for a keiki menu at restaurants. It also helps when you are figuring out how expensie activities are for children.

If you’ve seen Lilo & Stitch , you know that “ohana means family.” This word pops up everywhere in Hawaii.

The trash cans in Hawaii usually have the phrase “please kokua” on them. No, that’s not the Hawaiian word for garbage. It means “please help.”

The word “mahalo” is Hawaiian for thank you. Use this as much as possible! You can even say “mahalo nui loa” which means “thank you very much!”

Incorporating some Hawaiian words during your Hawaii vacations is a great way to learn a bit about Hawaiian history and culture, too. It’s also a great idea when traveling to Hawaii with kids.

14. You Won’t Get a Free Lei at the Airport

If you’re visiting Hawaii for the first time, you might be wondering if you’ll get a free lei when you arrive at the airport.

I’ve been traveling to Hawaii for the past 25 years and that has never happened to me. I think it’s something that used to happen way back in the day, but it’s definitely not a thing anymore.

But, you can always book a lei greeting at the airport before your trip if you want to make it extra special. Find the best prices here.

Or, you can check with your resort to see if they have a free (or paid) lei greeting option. For many people, receiving a fresh flower lei is the ultimate way to kick off their Hawaii vacation.

FAQ about How to Plan a Hawaiian Vacation

You’ll want to think about the point of your trip. Is it to see specific attractions, experience Hawaiian culture, do a lot of water activities, go hiking , or just to relax? That will help you figure out which island(s) to visit. Then, you’ll want to check airfare for your desired dates and book your accommodation.

The best way to see Hawaii on a budget is to visit during the off-season (the cheapest time being in September.) That’s when airfare and hotel stays are the cheapest and you can usually find the best Hawaii packages. You can also look into budget vacation rentals. And then fill your itinerary with free things to do in Hawaii like outdoor entertainment, hiking, swimming, going for walks, and relaxing at the beach.

While you might never want to leave Hawaii, usually people plan to stay 7-10 days during their vacation to Hawaii. That gives enough time to get over jet lag, participate in a few scheduled activities, explore the Hawaiian island a bit, and have time to relax and unwind.

How to Plan a Trip to Hawaii Wrap Up

I hope you enjoyed my Hawaii travel advice for your first time in Hawaii! These are my top tips for planning a trip to Hawaii like a pro. So, whether you’re planning a family trip to Hawaii or an adult-only getaway, I have you covered.

If this post about Hawaii vacation planning was helpful and you want more content on the topic of planning trips to Hawaii, please check out our other posts about traveling to Hawaii with kids or without kids here at Hawaii Travel with Kids.

If you’re looking for tips on specific islands for your Hawaiian vacations, check out my planning tips for Oahu , Maui , the Big Island , and Kauai .

Looking for more Hawaii trip planning tips? Find out how to rent a car in Hawaii, 50 places to visit in Hawaii , best Hawaii travel apps , if you need t ravel insurance for Hawaii , Hawaii Packing List for Flight , 101 Things to do on Oahu , and 105 ways to save money in Hawaii !

Planning a Group Trip to Hawaii? Skip the Stress With an All Inclusive Hawaii Vacation

Planning a group trip to Hawaii can seem daunting. Although exciting, it comes with a lot of stress, especially for the planner. From coordinating schedules, agreeing on activities and accommodating everyone’s dietary preferences – the logistics can quickly become overwhelming. But what if we told you that you could skip all the hassle and simply focus on making memories that last a lifetime? Hawaii, with its stunning beaches, rich culture, and diverse activities, is the perfect destination for groups of any size. And the best part is that our all-inclusive Hawaii vacation packages take the guesswork out of planning, letting you relax and enjoy paradise with your friends and family. In this blog, we’ll explore how you can make your group trip to Hawaii seamless and stress-free by choosing an all-inclusive experience.

Why Choose Hawaii for a Group Trip?

Diverse activities.

Hawaii offers the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation and cultural immersion – making it an ideal destination for groups. If your group is seeking thrilling activities such as hiking volcanic craters and snorkeling with vibrant marine life, Hawaii has an abundance of options. Conversely, perhaps simply lounging on a pristine beach is more their style, and Hawaii has that too. From lush rainforests to dramatic coastlines; every member of your group will find something to love.

Hawaii’s unique mix of Polynesian, Asian and Western influences meld to create a rich cultural experience. Here your group can explore historical landmarks, learn about Hawaii’s deep cultural roots, and immerse themselves in an authentic Hawaiian experience. Additionally, Hawaii offers year-round pleasant weather , easy access via direct flights from major cities and a wide-range of hotel and resort options to cater to any group size.

Common Challenges in Planning a Group Trip

When it comes to organizing a group trip to Hawaii, several challenges often arise – starting with coordinating schedules. First and foremost, finding dates that work for everyone can be a logistical nightmare. Whether you’re juggling work commitments, family obligations or school schedules, getting everyone on the same page can take weeks of back and forth communication. Although we can’t solve this problem for you – we do make it a little easier by offering your group the ability to choose any travel date. Unlike some companies that have set starting dates, our Hawaii all-inclusive vacations allow you to select whatever date works best for the group. As long as availability permits – your group may choose any travel date you want!

Once your group agrees on a travel date, the budget is your next major hurdle. Each member of the group has a financial situation unique to them, so deciding on accommodations, activities and dining options can be stressful. While some members of the group may prefer a more luxurious experience, others may lean towards a budget-friendly option, making it difficult to strike the right balance.

One side note about budgets – we’ve often seen conflict arise among group members over how much to spend. Even if you think someone can afford a nicer vacation, you need to take into account that some people prefer to travel economically, even if they don’t have to. One person’s “Treat yourself” motto may be another’s ” A penny saved is a penny earned” motto. To balance this, we offer all inclusive packages, especially in Waikiki , with a wide-range of hotel and resort options sure to meet everyone at their personal budget. The hotel is different but the package remains the same. Don’t let let how much to spend create unnecessary tension.

And finally, one thing that our groups have found invaluable over the years is our personalized, interest-free payment plans. This allows your group the ability to book in advance, without having to pay for everything upfront. We have a detailed blog about our Hawaii payment plans here . Your group can set one payment plan schedule for the entire party, or each person can have an individual payment plan.

Coordination

In addition to scheduling and budgeting, the complexity of organizing all the trip details adds another layer of complication. There are so many components to a successful Hawaii vacation, and creating the perfect “flow” of activities and downtime isn’t an easy task. From booking accommodations, arranging transportation and scheduling activities, the planning process can quickly become overwhelming. Without careful coordination, the itinerary can feel either too rushed or too slow, resulting in frustration for some members of your group.

Combined, these challenges can turn what should be a fun and memorable trip into a trip to not remember. At the very least, it could cause you to refrain from coordinating another group trip in the future. That’s where an all-inclusive vacation comes in. We simplify the planning process, and do the leg work for you, leaving your group with a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Benefits of an All-Inclusive Vacation for Your Group Trip to Hawaii

Simplified planning.

We’re a one-stop shop! All the activities, accommodations, transportation and meals – bundled. Instead of choosing each element separately, you simply select a package. Group travel can be challenging due to various personalities and travel-styles within the group. Instead of having to agree on each minute detail, all you need to do is agree on a travel date and package. Within the packages there is much flexibility, allowing those who wish to deviate from the rest of the group the flexibility to do so. As the best part is: we handle that, not you!

Budget-Friendly

Our Hawaii all-inclusive vacation packages have a set cost person, and you’re able to see exactly what that price includes on a day-by-day basis. This eliminates unexpected costs your group may encounter, keeping everyone happy and on budget.

Curated Experiences for your Hawaii Group Trip

We only offer Hawaii, allowing us to specialize in these incredible islands. Our focus is singularly on Hawaii, allowing us to craft an unforgettable experience tailor-made to your group’s desires. Family-owned small businesses, local guides and longtime reputable companies come together to offer an exciting and authentic experience. Furthermore, many on our team have deep roots to Hawaii. We aren’t just selling trips to Hawaii – we’re welcoming you home. Combined, this makes for a custom adventure your group will never forget.

Time Saving

When you choose an all-inclusive vacation package for your group trip to Hawaii, there’s so need to research or book individual elements. Naturally, we always recommend you do your due diligence when investing in a vacation, and that’s why we are proud to be long-term members of the Better Business Bureau with a perfect rating for over two decades. However, you save yourself hours of precious time by not having to decide between snorkel excursions, or breakfast restaurants. You can rest assured that we have spent the last 40 years curating the best of the best for our all-inclusive Hawaii vacations .

Activities and Experiences Ideal for any Group Trip to Hawaii

Group-friendly tours in hawaii.

Whether your group is looking to snorkel, hike, sightsee or lounge – we can accommodate you. We offer group-friendly restaurants and activities for groups of all sizes. For very large groups, it’s important to remember that not all activities can accommodate everyone at the same time due to capacity limitations or space restrictions. However, we take care of all of the logistics and scheduling to ensure that every member of your group gets to experience the activity – just in smaller, more manageable groups. By staggering the activity times or splitting the group into smaller sections, no one misses out on the fun! This usually only applies to groups of 20 or more people, but rest assured – this is one more thing you won’t have to worry about. We handle all the details for you.

Adventure Activities

For the more adventurous group members, our all-inclusive vacations offer a wide array of thrilling activities. Zip lining, hiking, day and evening snorkeling, tubing and more will surely please any adrenaline-junkies in your group.

Relaxation Awaits

We also cater to the ones who are ready to unwind and unplug while in Hawaii. Spa massages, mellow catamaran sails, and leisurely hours spent under an umbrella on the beach are a few of the ways your group can relax.

Customizable Experiences

In addition to adventure and relaxation, there’s a large selection of historical tours, shopping excursions, sightseeing adventures and delectable dining options included in our packages.

Furthermore, the entire group doesn’t have to do everything together. In some cases, people may want to snorkel and others want to hike. Or some may want to do a sightseeing tour and others have a beach day. No problem –  we will handle this for the group! And at the end of the day everyone will be together at dinner to recap the day’s adventures.

Tips for a Successful Group Trip to Hawaii

Communication.

Planning a group trip to Hawaii can be smooth and enjoyable if you keep a few tips in mind. First, clear communication is essential. Gather everyone’s preferences and expectations early on. This ensures you won’t get too far into the planning process before you discover everyone’s likes and dislikes. Involve everyone in the planning, especially on big things such as budget and accommodations, and you’ll avoid surprises down the road.

Flexibility

Flexibility is another important factor. While we firmly believe in making the most of your time in Hawaii, you don’t want the schedule to be too rigid. Some group members are going to want free time to explore on their own or just relax. That’s why we incorporate ample unstructured time into our all-inclusive packages – to give people a chance to enjoy paradise at their own pace.

Designate a Group Leader

We recommend designating a group leader. They can handle communication, keep things organized and make decisions when necessary. Additionally, when you opt for an all-inclusive Hawaii package , the bulk of the vacation work is lifted off the group leader’s shoulders. The group leader compiles questions and details from the group and passes it on to us, and we handle the rest.

How to Choose the Right All-Inclusive Hawaii Package

Key factors.

Choosing the right all-inclusive package for your group trip to Hawaii is crucial to ensuring everyone has a memorable experience. We will work with you to make sure your group selects the perfect all-inclusive package that meets everyone’s needs, but there are still a few things to keep in mind:

First, consider your group size and the specific needs of your members. Some packages serve larger groups better than others.

Which activities is your group most interested in? Do they prefer adventure, relaxation or a blend of both? We’ll guide you to packages that offer what your group wants most, whatever that may be. Whether it’s hiking, and snorkeling, to luaus and beach days, we have something everyone can enjoy.

Budget is another key fact when planning a group trip to Hawaii. Our all-inclusive packages help streamline costs, but it’s essential to choose a package that fits within everyone’s budget.

Planning a group trip to Hawaii doesn’t have to be stressful. By choosing an all-inclusive vacation package , you can eliminate the headaches of coordinating schedules, managing budgets and organizing activities. With everything handled for you – from accommodations and meals to activities and transportation – your group can simply relax and focus on making unforgettable memories in paradise. Whether you’re looking for adventure, cultural immersion, or pure relaxation, Hawaii offers something for everyone. Contact us today to start exploring all-inclusive Hawaii packages so you can enjoy a seamless group getaway!

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Combine Honolulu and the Big Island’s Kohala Coast for a Perfect Hawaiian Vacation

If you’re vacationing on the Hawaiian Islands, you’ve probably traveled a long way. There are six major islands, each with its own distinct flavor. Why limit yourself to visiting only one? Honolulu and the Kohala Coast complement each other as perfectly as milk does cookies and are just a quick 50-minute flight apart.

Located on the island of Oahu, Honolulu is the state’s biggest city, presenting a vibrant immersion in local art, culture, shopping, and food, with an urban beach to boot. On the Big Island of Hawaii, the Kohala Coast looks lifted from the pages of a Polynesian fairytale. If you’re dreaming of a beach getaway with a side order of adventure, it’s a jackpot. 

Get ready for the perfect two-island Hawaiian vacation. 

Honolulu, Oahu

Honolulu is the urban soul of the Hawaiian Islands, where cosmopolitan attractions merge with the warm Aloha spirit. It hits the right mix of authentic and new, with Muumuu shops and flower lei stands next door to hip coffee bars and street art. 

The Best Things To Do:

To get a better understanding of modern Hawaii, delve into its history and tour Iolani Palace . Built in the 1880s, this sophisticated structure (it had electricity before the White House) was the official residence of Hawaiian monarchs before they were overthrown.

The Hawaiian Hall at the Bishop Museum houses a blue-chip collection of indigenous artifacts and royal heirlooms, offering a glimpse into how Hawaiian aristocracy once lived. The science center and planetarium are a winner with families.

Touring the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor sheds light on the event that propelled the United States into World War II. Start at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, with its interpretive exhibits, before you ferry to the memorial, where you may scatter flowers in memory of the 1,177 crewmen who lost their lives when the battleship exploded on December 7, 1941.

Honolulu has its own beach, Ala Moana Beach Park. Thanks to reef protection, the water is usually as a calm as a swimming pool. Challenge your balance on a SUP, play tennis, and stroll the paved paths on shady Magic Island.

The world’s largest outdoor shopping center, Ala Moana , has Hawaiian flair to spare. Located across the street from Ala Moana Beach Park, you’ll feel a salty breeze as you browse. At Big Island Candies , the chocolate-dipped shortbread infused with macadamia nuts are addictive. For a locavore immersion, head to the ukulele shop, sample poi at the food court, and watch the free daily hula show.

Bring your appetite and sample the city’s diverse food scene. Arvo is a breakfast staple, where the matcha chia pudding is packed with island fruit. At lunch, make like a local and head to Foodland Farms , a giant supermarket with a selection of prepared food and fresh-made poke that are picnic-perfect. For a potent potable, Happy Hour at LBD offers sake samplers and sushi bites. You can’t go wrong with dinner at Straits Hawaii , where a fusion of zesty Southeast Asian flavors is prepared with Hawaiian-grown ingredients.  

Insider Tip: On the edge of bustling Chinatown is Foster Botanical Garden , a 14-acre swath of tranquility. Highlights include a butterfly garden and an ancient cycad collection. 

Where to Stay:

Opened in February 2024, Renaissance Honolulu Hotel & Spa is a high-rise retreat in the city center. Chic guest rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing Oahu's south shore. Two swimming pools, poolside cabanas, a Japanese-style spa, and wellness center present a resort experience in the heart of downtown. The onsite restaurant, Mara, draws a local crowd thanks to ultra-fresh seafood and a talented young sommelier who sources rare wines from small producers around the world. 

For a more boutique stay, there’s Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani , in the heart of Waikiki. It’s near cultural venues such as the Bishop Museum; Just present your room key for free admission. Foodies flock here to sample delectable treats at the onsite Halekulani Bakery, ranging from artisan bread to their famous coconut cake.

The Best Time To Visit:

Temperatures are balmy all year, without much deviation. The rainy season is November through March, but be prepared for some precipitation year-round.

How To Get There:

Many airlines fly nonstop to Oahu’s Daniel K. Inouye Airport from the mainland. It’s an eleven-hour journey from the East Coast, six hours from the West Coast. 

Kohala Coast, Hawaii

The Big Island, also known as Hawaii, is the largest of the Hawaiian Islands. There’s plenty of geographic diversity, from beaches with black, white, and even green-hued sand, to rainforests and volcanoes, with sparkling waterfalls dropped in for good measure. The Kohala Coast is the island’s prime vacation spot. 

Best Things To Do:

The Kohala Coast overflows with striking natural assets. Many of the island’s top resorts dot this postcard-pretty stretch of coastline, where white-sand beaches fringed with coco palms sit next to jet-black lava rock. 

Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area is known for dazzling sunsets, while Spencer Beach Park is in the shadows of the Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site, which preserves the ruins of the last major Hawaiian temple.  

Book the guided Kohala Waterfall Adventure with Hawaii Forest & Trail and ramble off-road in a 4-wheel-drive. You’ll hike to a semi-secret waterfall and refresh under the cascade.

For a nighttime adventure, snorkeling with manta rays is unique to this corner of Hawaii. Adventure X Boat Tours launches out of Puako Boat Ramp, a stone’s throw from most Kohala resorts. You’ll anchor in the bay, jump in the water with the able crew, and get safely up close with manta rays feeding on plankton under the bright lights.

Immerse yourself in the ancient at the Puako Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve , where carvings etched into stone dating back to 1200 AD are found along an unpaved 1.5-mile trail not far from the Fairmont Orchid. 

Insider Tip : Head to Waimea for the farmers market on Wednesdays and Saturdays and get a taste of the local agricultural scene and the rolling pastures that have drawn Hawaiian cowboys, known as paniolo, for generations. 

Where To Stay:

The Fairmont Orchid is an elegant maze of fragrant gardens and koi ponds. The beach is a protected cove where you can snorkel with sea turtles and spy dolphins at play. An array of programming, from hula lessons to coconut frond weaving, is an experiential window into native customs.

The Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa is an idyllic escape with stone walkways that were once fields of lava and pristine fishponds that are designated as part of the Anchialine Pond Preservation Area. Golf, a dip in one of the three swimming pools, and sunset sails in the calm waters of the Anaeho’omalu Bay await. 

Temperatures are reliably warm year-round. For big waves, come in winter, the official rainy season. Summer brings gentler surf, with the warmest temperatures in August and September. 

Numerous airlines, including United, Delta, Alaska, and Hawaiian, fly to Kona International Airport nonstop from the mainland. Hawaiian Airlines offers inexpensive interisland flights from Honolulu’s Daniel K. Inouye Airport to Kona multiple times daily, with a flight time of 50 minutes. 

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5 Days Romantic Escape to Mauna Lani

Slip away to hawai'i.

Connect with your soulmate at one of Condé Nast Traveler’s most romantic getaways in the U.S. Beaming with spirit, Mauna Lani enjoys 3,200 oceanfront acres of idyllic beaches, sacred fishponds and sprawling lava fields that have stood the test of time. As you connect with this legendary coastline, reconnect with the one you love most. Speak with a Pre-Arrival Agent at 855.267.0516.

Day 1: Arrival

Morning | embark on a sunrise canoe paddle, afternoon | beachside daybed & poolside massage, evening | toes-in-the-sand starlit dinner, morning | set sail aboard kalama kai, afternoon | weave with uncle george, evening | dine at surf shack, morning | sunrise yoga & refreshing juice, afternoon | snorkel in the colors of our reefs, evening | dine at hālani, morning | private petroglyph excursion, afternoon | goop glow facial & massage for two, late afternoon | royal fish ponds pedicure, evening | glow pickleball, morning | wake up to "rhythms & brunch", afternoon | golf our oceanfront greens, evening | dine at canoehouse, for assistance.

For assistance with availability and logistics, please contact us at 877.259.7297.

Other Itineraries

Getting hitched in hawai'i | 5 days, the ultimate summer vacation | 6 days, incentive retreat on the kohala coast | 5 days.