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Your First-Time in Hawaii Itinerary (10-Days)

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I fell in love with Hawaii during my first visit when I was 24. I was invited out to free-load off my then-girlfriend, now wife, Erica who was working on Oahu. During that first trip to Hawaii, I knew I would live in Hawaii someday. 

3-years later my company posted a job on Oahu, and I jumped at the opportunity. I never regretted the move. 

Your first time in Hawaii may not be so serendipitous. You want to plan the right Hawaii vacation for you, your partner, or your family. Hawaii is an expensive place to visit and a long way to travel, you want to do the trip right. This first-time Hawaii itinerary is how you do your trip right.

Don’t miss our best itineraries designed to give you the best vacation. With one download you’ll get the best sights, restaurants, beaches, and more carefully mapped out for the optimal experience. They’re really that good. 

Here is your first-time Hawaii itinerary (10-days), Maui and Kauai:

Day 1: Welcome to Maui 

Day 2: Historic Lahaina Town and North Shore

Day 3: Whale Watching, Snorkeling, and a Luau

Day 4: Road to Hana

Day 5: Day Trip to Lanai

Day 6: Haleakala and Upcountry

Day 7: Hiking and Beach Day

Day 8: Fly to Kauai, Hanalei Bay, & Waterfall Hike

Day 9: Poipu Beach, Waimea Canyon, and Na Pali Sunset Cruise

Day 10: Tube Down a Mountain and Fly Home

The best Hawaiian island for your first-time trip to Hawaii is Maui. Maui has the best weather, things to do, resorts, restaurants, food trucks, and still has that laid-back, surfer island-style one expects in Hawaii. The second best island to visit is Kauai or Oahu, depending on what kind of vacation you want. 

We provide itineraries for all the options plus the mistakes to avoid for your first time to Hawaii.

Before you get too far into trip planning, be sure to read our complete guide to planning your first trip to Hawaii . That’ll give you all the need to know information so you can decide exactly where to go, what to do, how to island hop easily and more. It’s a short cut to your best trip planning.

What You Need to Know for Your First Time Visit to Hawaii

First-time visitors fall in love with Hawaii and come back for more. That isn’t tourism marketing, I got the data to prove it.

32% of visitors to Hawaii were first-time visitors in 2019. That means 68% of visitors decided to return to Hawaii after their first trip. The average number of trips was 5.2. 

The first thing to know for your Hawaii itinerary is Hawaii is a safe place to visit. The locals, like Erica and me, are friendly and hospitable. The aloha spirit is strong in Hawaii and you will feel it. 

This is your place to start planning your first trip to Hawaii. Here is where I cover the foundation for your trip. After this, your mind and soul will be ready for creative, freestyle vacation planning or just get on the plane. Planning is half the fun.

🍍 What Hawaiian island is best for first-timers?

🍍 What is a good first-time Hawaii itinerary? 

🍍 What are the mistakes of first-time visitors to Hawaii make? 

🍍 Tips for first-timers: What to book before you leave and do you need a rental car?

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What is the Best Hawaiian Island for First-Time Visitors

Maui. Maui is the best Hawaiian island for first-time visitors . When you decided it was time to visit the 50th state in the union, Maui was the image that popped in your head. You just didn’t know it.

I’ve been to all six major Hawaiian islands and some of the small islands. There are 8 large islands and a total of 137 islands in the Hawaiian chain . Maui is our favorite but for all the reasons that make it the best Hawaiian island for first-timers. 

Some things are true for any Hawaiian island. They all have the following Hawaiian charms and specialties: luaus, Hawaiian history, beaches, the weather is amazing, the ocean is 75 to 80 degrees year-round, surfing, outrigger canoeing, and other ocean sports. 

Let me break down the pros and cons of visiting Maui as your first island.

Maui is the best Hawaiian island for first-time visitors for the following reasons:

✅ Resort areas of Ka’anapali and Wailea

✅ Best snorkeling of any Hawaiian island

✅ Road to Hana’s waterfalls, food stalls, black sand beaches, red sand beach, etc.

✅ Best island for singles who want a beach vacation and activities

✅ Haleakala National Park – hiking, Pools of ‘Ohe’o , sunrise or sunset experience

✅ Whale watching is the best on Maui from mid-December to mid-April

✅ Family-friendly resorts and beaches

✅ Island of Lanai is a ferry ride away

✅ 65 activities for kids to do on Maui

✅ Sea turtles abound for snorkeling and on the beach ( Ho’okipa Beach Park )

✅ Maui food truck scene

✅ Glamping, camping, and car park sleeping options ( Camp Olowalu )

✅ Cheap flights on Southwest, Alaskan, and Hawaiian to Kahului Airport

✅ Adults-only resort – Hotel Wailea, Relais & Châteaux 

✅ Snorkeling Molokini crater

✅ The Lahaina Banyan Tree – 16 trunks and covers 2-acres

Reasons why Maui may not be the best first Hawaiian island for you:

❌ Maui is the most expensive island to visit ( Oahu is the cheapest )

❌ Not a tropical jungle island like The Garden Isle of Kauai

❌ Not volcanically active like the Big Island (note: Kilauea volcano on Hawai’i is not currently erupting but always check if it is)

❌ Lack of nightlife, entertainment, or a club scene like Oahu

❌ No Disney Aulani Resort or other Disney property

❌ No night snorkeling with manta rays

❌ Oahu has the best surfing and places to learn how to surf

❌ Hiking is better on Oahu, Kauai, and Big Island

First-Time Visit to Hawaii: 10-Day Itinerary

Here is your first time in Hawaii itinerary. This itinerary will leave you relaxed and confident you saw and experienced the best things to do on Maui and one other island. 

From two locals, this is our ideal Hawaii itinerary for first-time visitors. 

We live in Maui and never get island-fever. There is so much to do but don’t worry, I’m not prescribing an action-packed vacation. This is the cream of the crop to get your feet wet in the sand and to realize why all the celebrities vacation in Maui.

A 10-day Hawaii itinerary is a perfect length of time. As a first-time visitor, we recommend you check out two Hawaiian islands. The first being Maui and then we give you two options – Kauai or Oahu. 

Kauai is for those looking for the outdoors, jungle hikes, and solitude (no crowds). 

Oahu is for those who want a few days of a Hawaiian social scene. Honolulu is the Manhattan of the Pacific. The place doesn’t shut down at 9:00 am like the other islands. But Oahu also has more family resorts, beaches, and the best hiking of any other island .

Use your civil liberties to play around with the itineraries to make them fit your Hawaii vacation.

If you are looking for more details on a trip to Maui, or another island, then learn more about our Hawaiian Island Wayfinder Itineraries.

Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary

Maui Wayfinder Itinerary

Kauai Wayfinder Itinerary

Cruising Hawaii Guide

Big Island Wayfinder Itinerary

Hawaii 10-day itinerary: maui and kauai.

Explore the Valley Isle and then hop on a 35-minute flight to the Garden Isle.  

Where to Stay on Maui

The two resort areas on Maui are Ka’anapali and Wailea. Ka’anapali is on the west side of Maui and Wailea is in the south. 

Picking one over the other is no easy task. Opinions abound on where to stay and for good reason, the weather and beaches are perfect in both locations. The main differences are the type of hotels and experience.

Wailea offers four-star resorts. Ka’anapali is for those who seek a more walkable area, proximity to the historical town of Lahaina, a more lively experience, and more vacation rental options. 

There is so much more to these two resort areas so I recommend you read the full breakdown in the article below. The second thing is to check out the other article to decide if a vacation rental is a better option for your Hawaii vacation.

Related articles:

• Ka’anapali vs. Wailea: Here’s How to Decide Where to Stay
• Hotel vs. Airbnb: Here’s How to Decide What is Best for Your Hawaii Vacation

Glamping and Camping on Maui: Camp Olowalu in West Maui offers glamping, tent camping, and car camping in their newly renovated, beach-side campgrounds. This is an affordable and safe way to stay in Maui.

Erica, Henry, Hattie, and I had a wonderful time staying in their glamping tentalows in December. Check out our video below on glamping and camping in Maui.

Day 1 (Maui): Welcome to Maui

You’ll land at Kahului Airport (OGG) in the central valley of Maui. It is an open-air airport with two Starbucks and all the major car rental companies. The car rental desks are a short 10-minute walk or a quick electric tram ride away from the baggage claim.  

Maui is the second-largest Hawaiian island but still only takes about 45-minutes to get where you want to go. Grab your rental car or an Uber or Lyft or taxi to your hotel. 

Local Tip: If you booked a vacation rental, head to Costco first to stock the kitchen. Groceries are twice as much or more than groceries on the mainland. You can save some serious money by shopping at Costco. Plus, Costco has beach supplies like beach chairs, reef-safe sunscreen, snorkel equipment, umbrellas, boards, etc. 

Local Tip: Consider renting snorkel equipment for the week on Day 1. For the best-priced snorkel equipment, don’t rent at the resorts but go to Boss Frog’s, The Snorkel Shop, or Snorkel Bob’s. They have shops all over the island.

Today is a day to get a lay of the land. Check in to your resort or condo to relax. It was a long flight across the Pacific. 

Pool and Sunset: Soak up the sun at the pool, walk the beach, or walk the shops around your resort. The restaurants and bars in Wailea and Ka’anapali have great happy hour deals. Get your first mai tai and smell the Hawaii air. It smells like flowers. 

Both resort areas face the sunset so sit back and enjoy.

Day 2 (Maui): Historic Lahaina Town and North Shore

Jet lag will have you out of bed early. Embrace the opportunity with a run or walk along the beach paths in Ka’anapali or Wailea. Then get some Hawaiian breakfast.

You’re heading to West Maui today for sightseeing and snorkeling. Maui has the best snorkeling in Hawaii. 

Breakfast : Hit up Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop in Olowalu if coming from South Maui. It is never too early for a chocolate mac nut pie. They also have a phenomenal lunch menu but you can beat the crowds by going for breakfast. Staying in Ka’anapali means you can visit CJ’s Deli and Diner for breakfast or drive into Lahaina for a lot of breakfast spots on the ocean.

Snorkeling in North West Maui: Continue to drive up the Honoapiilani Highway past Lahaina and Ka’anapali. The road gets windy but it is paved. Go snorkeling in the Honolua Bay , a marine preserve at the end of a 5-minute jungle walk. If the waves are big or snorkeling visibility is poor, go to Nakalele Blowhole that is a few minutes past Honolua Bay.

If you have kids or don’t enjoy the rocky beach at Honolua Bay, head to Napili Bay or Kapalua Bay for a sandy beach with facilities and showers. There are public parking lots but arrive by 10:00 am for a spot or park along the road.

These three bays are well-protected and rich in Hawaii-only-fish and sea turtles. Snorkel on the sides of the bay to find the sea turtles.

Historic Lahaina Town: Head to Lahaina for lunch, sightseeing, and shopping. Lahaina was once the capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii. The whaling town has kept most of its charm but does come off as touristy and kitschy to many. Personally, I like this place. 

🍍 Visit Banyan Court to walk amongst the 16-trunk, 1.8-acre sprawling banyan tree. 

🍍 Visit the historical courthouse with its free museum and art gallery at the banyan tree.

🍍 Walk the harbor and the historical trail.

🍍 Shop along Front Street

🍍 Grab a shave ice or gelato to escape the heat. Lahaina is Hawaiian for “cruel sun.”

Lunch at Cheeseburger in Paradise, Lahaina Coolers, Cool Cat Cafe, Kimo’s, Lahaina Fish Co., Down the Hatch, or Aloha Mixed Plate to name a few of our favorite places.

My favorite is Aloha Mixed Plate for Asian-Hawaiian fusion. It is located on Front St. but 1-mile north of the main downtown area, behind the Cannery Mall. They have free parking.

After lunch and checking out Lahaina, you can go back to your resort for some pool time and relaxation. Whalers Village in Ka’anapali or The Shops at Wailea have good happy hours and dining if you seek an escape from your resort for dinner.

I also love the Maui food truck scene. There are food truck parks around the resort areas and towns. Check out the articles below for food truck information and happy hour guides.

• The Ultimate Maui Food Truck Guide
• 7 Best Wailea Happy Hours
• 10 Best Lahaina Happy Hours

Day 3 (Maui): Whale Watching, Snorkeling, and a Luau

Day 3 of our Hawaii Itinerary is my favorite day. Erica and I love whale watching. Maui is home to the largest humpback whale migration in the world. You will see calves playfully breaching, groups of males pursuing females in courtship, and whales singing their hearts out. Check out our video for what to expect when whale watching in Maui.

Whale watching is a 2-hour tour so if you go in the morning, you will have a lot of the day left for snorkeling and beach-bumming. 

Don’t feel like you are missing out if you’re in Maui during the whale off-season. This leaves more time for snorkeling or going on a snorkeling cruise.

Snorkeling Day: Maui is the best Hawaiian island for snorkeling because you can find great snorkeling from the shore. Our favorite shoreline snorkeling spots are the following.

Shoreline Snorkeling

🍍 Kamaole Beach Park III (South Maui): Get here in the morning to beat the trade winds so the water is calm and clear for your snorkeling. This beach is great for the whole family and is located in central Kihei, a popular place to stay. 

🍍Turtle Town at Maluaka Beach (South Maui): Called Turtle Town for a good reason. Maluaka Beach is the best place to snorkel but Turtle Town refers to the area from Nahuna Point to Black Sand Beach. To find the turtles, head south down the beach till you reach the rocks at the end of the sand.

🍍 Black Rock (West Maui): A famous rock jumping location located in front of the Ka’anapali Sheraton, the rock is also a good snorkeling spot.

🍍 Airport Beach (West Maui): Airport Beach is in front of the Westin Ocean Resort Villas. There is a big parking lot with bathroom facilities. The beach is ideal for lounging all day and then jumping in for snorkeling in the reef located less than a hundred feet from shore.

🍍 Napili Bay (North West Maui): Crescent-shaped bay with the delicious Gazebo breakfast and lunch restaurant overlooking the bay. Excellent snorkeling and calm waters.

🍍 Kapalua Bay (North West Maui): Another crescent-shaped bay with a large beach next to Napili Bay.

Snorkeling Cruises

A snorkeling cruise may be more of an adventure for you. Plus, a boat or sailboat can take you to pristine reefs and Maui landmarks that are more jaw-dropping than the snorkeling, like the Molokini crater.

Our favorite snorkeling cruises are Molokini crater, Lanai snorkeling and dolphin watch, and Olowalu Kayak Snorkeling.

Luau: Finally, the time has come for a Hawaiian feast. The luaus feature Hawaiian and Polynesian dancing while you dine on Kalua pig, poi (taro plant), and haupia (coconut milk-based dessert). 

Feel free to get dressed up with your best Aloha Shirt or tropical attire. Dressing up isn’t required but it is a fun way to get involved.

Luaus include interactive events before the festivities like coconut husking, spear throwing, hula lessons, and basket weaving. 

Luaus can be found in the resorts or standalone locations. The best luaus on Maui are below.

🍍 Old Lahaina Luau

🍍 Feast of Lele

🍍 The Grand Luau at Honua’ula

🍍 Drums of the Pacific

🍍 Royal Lahaina Luau

🍍 Te Au Moana

Get The Maui Itinerary

The step-by-step itinerary takes you to all the best beaches, snorkeling spots, restaurants, and sights. You’ll get six carefully planned excursion days to help you see the can’t miss stops no matter how limited your time is.

Get all the details on our itinerary and download it for a memorable and easily planned trip to Maui.

Day 4 (Maui): Road to Hana

This drive is worth the hype. It isn’t about the road (which is very safe now), it is about the stops. Swim in waterfalls, eat fresh banana bread, drink from coconuts, walk black sand beaches and through bamboo forests, and so much more.

Head out at 7:30 am or earlier. If you are coming from Wailea or Ka’anapali, it will take you 30-minutes and 45-minutes, respectively, to get to the start of the drive-in Paia. 

The drive is only 45-miles but plan to be on the road for 8 to 12-hours to do the stops you want to do.

🍍 Gas up at Costco or Safeway Express (click for directions) for the cheapest gas on the island

🍍 If you stop at Kipahulu, Pools of O’heo then you can reuse your Haleakala National Park for your Day 5 visit to the summit. NPS passes are good for 3-days.

🍍 Pack lunch and refreshments.

🍍 Let locals pass. They are trying to get home, let them pass you.

🍍 You can return via the backside for fresh scenery and adventure. The road is remote and unpaved in spots so do this at your own risk. Many car companies won’t send emergency services per their contract if you have problems. Cell coverage is spotty too.

Day 5 (Maui): Day Trip to Lanai

The best part of visiting Maui is you have the islands of Lanai and Molokai a few miles away. We recommend taking a day trip to Lanai, the Pineapple Isle.

The island of Lanai was once home to the largest pineapple plantation in the world, by Dole. Today, it is home to 3,102 permanent residents and two five-star Four Seasons Hotels. There isn’t even a traffic light on the island .

Departing five times a day, take the Maui-Lanai Ferry from Lahaina Harbor across the Au’au Channel. Spend the day on one of the best beaches in the world, Hulopoe Beach, with snorkeling and soaking up the sun. Hulopoe Beach is located where the ferry drops you off. 

Take a taxi or bus to Lanai City from the beach. Grab a coffee at Coffee Works and walk the small town.

For some local flavor, head for lunch at Cafe 565, Blue Ginger Market, or Richard’s Market. All three restaurants are around the city’s central park – Dole Park.

Day 6 (Maui): Haleakala and Upcountry

This is another big day on the road in Maui but worth the driving. If you reserved a Haleakala sunrise permit, plan on staying in Haleakala for the morning going on hikes and checking out the silversword plants and Nene birds. 

If you don’t have a Healakala sunrise permit, that is totally cool. Go to Haleakala National Park in the morning and then check out Upcountry Maui. The other option is to tour Upcountry Maui in the morning and then go to Haleakala in the afternoon and to watch the sunset from the summit.

Local Tip: Remember to bring your National Park Service pass from the Road to Hana. If you visited the Pools of O’heo then you already have your vehicle entrance pass for Haleakala. 

Upcountry Maui: Escape the heat of the Maui coastline. Head up the volcano for the Swiss Alps-like area of Upcountry. Where the cowboys roam and the coffee grows. 

You can do the Upcountry activities in the order below as you cruise through Upcountry on route 37. Pick your favorites, you don’t have to do them all. They are quick stops so you can do 3 or 4 plus lunch.

• Makawao Town: Walk the historic small town of Makawao. Grab a donut-on-a-stick from Komoda Store and Bakery , coffees from Sip Me , and then walk the art galleries, Makawao History Museum, and shops along Baldwin Avenue. 
• Ziplining at NorthShore Zipline Company or Piiholo Ranch Zipline – play in the tree canopy at one of these two zipline companies. 
• Surfing Goat Dairy – tour a goat farm, milk some goats, taste goat cheese, and have fun for the whole family. 
• Kula Country Farm – pick strawberries and enjoy their farmer’s market. If you are visiting in October, you must check out their pumpkin patch and corn maze.
• Ali’i Kula Lavender – sweeping views of Maui set amongst fields of lavender and a botanical garden. Their coffee and bakery is worth a stop alone.  Note: O’o Farm lunch location is next to the lavender farm. O’o Farm is a lunch and agro-tour.
• Kula Botanical Gardens – a family’s lovingly cared for garden with a covered bridge, 8-acre garden, koi pond, and waterfalls.
• Mr. Shim’s Coffee Plantation Tour – tour a working coffee plantation by Mr. Shim himself. 
• MauiWine – take a free wine tour and try their tasting room with $12 to $16 tastings. They specialize in pineapple wine but offer mainstream varietal wines. Across the street is Ulupalakua Ranch Store for lunch or a snack.

Where to Eat in Upcountry Maui

Our favorite lunch places in the Upcountry can’t be missed. Pick your favorite based on when you get hungry during your activities. 

🍍 Kama Hele Cafe – a food truck near Makawao featuring homemade and local dishes. A good breakfast stop.

🍍 La Provence Restaurant (before Kula Country Farms) – a French bistro and bakery that is too cute to miss.

🍍 O’o Farms – a farm tour ending with a farm-to-table gourmet lunch

🍍 Ulupalakua Ranch Store – farm to table food from the local cattle company.

Day 7 (Maui): Hiking and Beach Day

Erica and I love exploring Hawaii by trail. One can hike in a jungle or a desert. We prefer the jungle as there aren’t very many bugs in Hawaii.

Start the morning with refreshing hikes after driving through Upcountry the day before. 

‘Iao Valley State Park: The first stop is ‘Iao Valley State Park . This is more of a scenic outlook than a hike. Drive through Maui’s capital of Wailuku into one of the wettest places on Earth. The ‘Iao Valley gets over an inch of rain a day on its peaks. This place is rich in Hawaiian history and home to the ‘Iao Needle. Pay $5 for parking and walk the 0.4-mile paved path to the observation deck. 

Waihe’e Ridge Trail: This is a real hiking trail for those outdoor enthusiasts. Exit Wailuku and drive to the northwest shore for Waihe’e Ridge Trail . The 3.9-mile there-and-back trail features waterfall views and hikes along a ridgeline in the West Maui Mountains. This is a fun hike to take in Maui.

Beach Day: After a morning of hiking, time to head to the beach. Relax at one of the local beaches in your area. Check out our shoreline snorkeling spots above for the best beaches. 

Wailea and Ka’anapali have excellent beaches in front of the resorts. You don’t have to go far to find a good beach in Maui. 

Day 8 (Kauai): Fly to Kauai, Hanalei Bay, & Waterfall Hike

Time to pack your bags and head to another island. You can find great island-hopping flight deals from Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest Airlines. We recommend you depart Maui’s Kahului Airport for Kuaui before 9:00 am for Lihue, Kauai. Flights are frequent.  

Where to Stay in Kauai: Our favorite place to stay is in Princeville on the North Shore of Kauai. Princeville is home to the nicest resorts, the beaches have stunning mountain backdrops, and you are close to the cutest town on the island – Hanalei. The cons of staying in Princeville is it is wetter during the winter and the winter surf makes the beaches not safe for swimming. 

The next option to stay in the South Shore. Perhaps a better option during the winter months as the south shore of Kauai is dryer and doesn’t get the big waves during the winter. South shore also has nice beaches like Poipu Beach.

The most affordable area to stay is the populated east shore of Kauai. More budget accommodations are available and it is a convenient location between north and south shore activities. 

The itinerary is structured for someone staying in Princeville but it will work regardless of where you stay as Kauai is small. One can almost circumnavigate the island in an hour and 30 minutes. The impassable Na Pali Coast stops a full circumnavigation of Kauai.

Grab your rental car on Kauai. Remember to check out Discount Hawaii Car Rentals for the best deals on the big car rental companies.

Drop-off your bags at your resort and then head to Hanalei Bay for lunch. Hanalei is a charming town on the idyllic Hanalei Bay with waterfalls dotting the 4,000-foot cliffs towering over the bay. 

For lunch in Hanalei check-out The Hanalei Gourmet, Hideaway’s Pizza Pub, or Cafe Turmeric. Those are our three favorites in Hanalei.

 After lunch, you have two options to fill your afternoon. 

Get The Kauai Itinerary

Get all the details on our itinerary and download it for a memorable and easily planned trip to Kauai.

Option 1 . Go for a swim in Hanalei Bay. 

Option 2. Hike a 2-mile section of the famous Kalalau Trail. No permit is required to hike from the trailhead to Hanakapiai Beach . The beach is beautiful but dangerous during the winter with big waves and strong riptide. From the beach, you can take another 2-mile trail to Hanakapiai Falls . Both hikes have steep inclines and are unpaved.

After the swim or the hike, soak up the resort or hotel you picked. 

Day 9 (Kauai): Poipu Beach, Waimea Canyon, and Na Pali Sunset Cruise

Today you explore the Garden Isle. Hop in your car for a road trip through paradise.

Poipu Beach: On the southern tip of Kauai is Poipu Beach . This beach has amazing snorkeling, swimming, bodyboarding, and home to many resting monk seals. The beach has been voted the best beach in America a few times. 

Enjoy the golden-sand beach and soak up the late morning sun. 

Hanapepe Town : As you drive east around the island, stop in Hanapepe. Pick up some taro chips from Taro Ko Farm . The rustic shack is open, just knock for fresh-made chips. Park the car and walk around the historic town. Check out the Swinging Bridge, art galleries, and shops.

If you need another beach stop, drive over to the Salt Pond Beach Park. It is a family-friendly and not crowded beach. 

Lunch: Head to Chicken in a Barrel BBQ at Waimea Plantation Cottages. The BBQ is outstanding and the location is ideal. Have lunch and walk the beautiful grounds of Waimea Plantation Cottages.

From here, it is a quick drive up to Waimea Canyon.  

Waimea Canyon: Nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, Waimea Canyon is a 10-mile long, 3,600-feet deep canyon. The red-dirt walls are breathtaking. Choose to enjoy the canyon from two lookouts or hike the many trails around the state park.

Leave time to get to the boat launch.

Na Pali Coast Sunset Dinner Cruise: No trip to Kauai is complete without seeing the Na Pali Coast. Since hiking it is off the table for most people, hop on a sailboat for a luxury experience at a decent price ($185 per person). 

Leaving from Hanapepe/Eleele, dinner cruises will take you on a scenic 4-hour tour of the Na Pali Coast. You can have a dinner cruise or drinks only, depending on your operator. Check out Captain Andy’s and Blue Dolphin Charters , our recommended tour operators. 

Day 10 (Kauai): Tube Down a Mountain and Fly Home

In the mountains above Lihui is an adventure like no other. Don a headlamp, sit in a tube, and flow gently down an engineering marvel. Dug by hand in 1870, you can tube down flumes, canals, and through tunnels of the former Lihue Sugar Cane Plantation. 

The 3-hour tour comes with lunch. Check out Mountain Tubing Adventure for tickets. Age 5 and up are $126 per person.

Grab your bags from your hotel, it is time to head home. 

Hawaii 10-Day Itinerary: Maui and Oahu

For those desiring more nightlife, entertainment, and a vast selection of Pacific and Hawaiian regional cuisine then head to Oahu over Kauai for your final 3-days.

Erica and I lived on Oahu for two years. We love Oahu and so do most as it is the most visited Hawaiian island. But one should consider that Oahu is the most populated island, has nasty traffic, and the beaches get crowded. 

But one can still find quiet places, sea turtles, great snorkeling and surfing, and far more entertainment and cuisine compared to the other Hawaiian islands. Oahu is the Gathering Place for good reason.

Another good reason to end your trip to Hawaii in Honolulu is the airport. Flying home from Oahu may be easier and cheaper compared to going from Kauai back to Maui. 

Oahu 3-Day Itinerary After Maui

For our Oahu itinerary, check out our Best 5-Day Oahu Itinerary.  

For your last 3-days in Hawaii, I recommend you do the following days of our 5-day Oahu itinerary:

🍍 Day 8 (Oahu): Welcome to Waikiki

🍍 Day 9 (Oahu): Exploring North Shore

🍍 Day 10 (Oahu): Windward Side and Fly Home

See Best 5-Day Oahu Itinerary or our Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary below for more details.

Get The Oahu Itinerary

Get all the details on our itinerary and download it for a memorable and easily planned trip to Oahu.

Hawaii Itinerary for 10 Days: Don’t Make These Mistakes

Hawaii is a safe place. Don’t take this list as a do or die list. These are friendly recommendations to help you get a flavor of the culture and be a curious visitor. I wish I had this list for my first few visits to Hawaii. 

We always say to travel with Aloha at the Hawaii Vacation Guide, this list will help you make the most of your Hawaii itinerary. 

🍍 Buy your pineapples at Costco. Costco has the cheapest pineapples in the islands at $3.

🍍 Food in Hawaii is expensive. Buy your groceries at Costco if you have a condo. The second cheapest is Target and Walmart. Safeway is the cheapest local grocery store. Read our guide to cheap groceries .

🍍 Never turn your back on the ocean. The ocean is dangerous, don’t let your guard down

🍍 Please don’t touch the sea turtles, sleeping monk seals, coral, and other wildlife in Hawaii. Hawaii’s creatures are endangered or at risk, watch but don’t harass.

🍍 Wear reef-safe sunscreen. It will be the law in January 2021. Read Hawaii Reef-Safe Sunscreen for details on what and where to buy reef-safe sunscreen on the mainland and Hawaii.

🍍 They are called Aloha Shirts, not Hawaiian shirts

🍍 Leave lava rocks and sand in Hawaii or you will fall victim to Pele’s Curse . 

🍍 Don’t honk your horn. People drive slow on the islands, so prepare yourself mentally to drive with aloha.

🍍 Don’t leave valuables in your car or unattended on the beach

🍍 Leave your shoes at the door. You will see the pile of slippers (aka, sandals). Leave yours on the pile.

🍍 Try the local food. Eat poke, musubi (rice and spam wrapped in seaweed), malasadas, dine at a food truck with local grindz, sip a peaberry Kona coffee, and go to McDonald’s to see their Hawaii menu.

🍍 Don’t walk on the coral reefs. Use a noodle to stay buoyant

🍍 Restaurants, bars, and shops close early, especially local shops. Check closing hours and plan on shopping in the afternoon and having early dinners.

🍍 Locals are residents, Hawaiians are indigenous people of Hawaii.

🍍 Leave yourself downtime on your itinerary. There is so much to do that some visitors get burnt out. Leave yourself time to relax at the beach, a coffee shop, or sit on your board in the ocean.

Tips for Your First Time to Hawaii Itinerary

How many days do people spend in hawaii.

9.3 days in Hawaii was the average number of days people visited in 2019. 1.2 was the average number of islands visited. 

We aren’t ones to follow the flock, but the average is close to our recommendation of 10-days in Hawaii. You don’t have to be average, set your own itinerary for Hawaii. Add extra days to this itinerary or an extra island or remove the extra island. Have some fun with this itinerary as you do more Hawaii vacation planning.

The average length of stay of visitors to each Hawaiian island was the following in 2019:

🍍 Maui: 7.9 days

🍍 Kauai: 7.4 days

🍍 Hawai’i: 7.3 days

🍍 Oahu: 6.8 days

🍍 Lanai: 3.2 days

🍍 Molokai: 4.5 days

(source: Hawaii Tourism Authority )

People spend the most time on Maui and for good reason. 

Hawaii Activities to Book in Advance

Consider booking a luau, whale watching, Haleakala sunrise, and a snorkel or boat trip before you leave for your Hawaii vacation. These activities fill up during the peak seasons of the winter and summer months. Plus, by booking early you can get the best price and pick of a tour operator.

Luau: You have to go to a traditional Hawaiian party with dancing and music for your first time to Hawaii. We recommend going on Day 3 of our 10-day Hawaii Itinerary.

The most popular Luaus in Hawaii fill up fast. If you are visiting during the winter or summer peak seasons, we recommend you book one or two months in advance to play it safe. Early booking also gets you a good seat for seated luaus. 

Maui luaus are the best in Hawaii. The town of Lahaina has the two most popular luaus – The Feast of Lele and Old Lahaina Luau. Decide what one to choose here: Feast of Lele vs Old Lahaina Luau .

Check out Day 3 of our itinerary below for more of our favorite luaus on Maui.

You can always find tickets for luaus at the last minute but luck plays a factor. 

Book Whale Watching: If you are visiting between 15-December and late March, sign up for a whale-watching cruise. Sign up to get the boat you want at the right price. You can book online so you can do this before you arrive. 

By whale watching early in your vacation (Day 3 of our 10-Day Hawaii Itinerary), you can rebook for free if you don’t see whales on your cruise. Book the sunrise tour or the 7:30 am tour for they will be less crowded and a lower price.

We recommend the Pacific Whale Foundation , Hawaii Ocean Project , and for a little more adventure on a raft,  Ultimate Whale Watching . Check out our Maui Whale Watching Guide for tips to save money when booking.

Snorkel and Adventure Cruises: Maui offers amazing shoreline snorkeling but for more of an outing, you can go on a snorkeling cruise. These cruises are a way to make a day out of snorkeling by being on the water, being pampered with a meal and snacks, and going to pristine snorkel spots.

Our favorite snorkeling destinations by guided tour are the following. You can find discount tickets on our recommendations page . 

🍍 Molokini Crater and Turtle Town

🍍 Lanai Snorkel and Dolphin Cruises

🍍 Olowalu Kayak Snorkeling

🍍 Hawaiian Paddle Sports – Outrigger Canoe, Stand Up Paddle Boarding, and Kayak

The popular cruises are catamaran boat cruises and luxury-ish sailboat cruises. Boat trips are around $65 per person and sailboat excursions are around $160 per person. They are 5-hours in duration.

• 6 Maui Adventure Cruises That You Will Never Forget
• Lanai or Molokini: What Has Better Snorkeling?

Haleakala National Park Sunrise Permit : One of the most memorable things you can do on Maui is to see the sunrise or sunset from 10,023 feet above sea-level. Haleakala means ‘house of the sun’ in Hawaiian because it is from the summit that the demigod Maui lassoed the sun to slow it down.

A reservation is required with the National Park Service for a sunrise viewing from the summit. Reservations can be made 2-months in advance. So set your alarm to book your tickets. Another batch of tickets becomes available 2-days before arrival but they are more competitive. 

Book your Haleakala sunrise tickets here with the National Park Service . 

You can also book with tour companies that will pick you up at your hotel, provide breakfast, and your permit.

The sunset is also outstanding at Haleakala and the sunset does not require a permit. 

Do You Need a Rental Car in Hawaii?

We get asked this a lot, “do you need a rental car when you visit Hawaii?”

We recommend you get a rental car for any Hawaiian island, not just Maui. From our analysis, a rental car will pay for itself if you do three or more activities during your stay in Hawaii. 

But getting a rental car is expensive in Hawaii. Rental cars cost more than the national average.

We break out the decision to rent a car or not in this article: Should You Rent a Car on Maui? . We also give alternatives to renting a car that applies to all the islands. 

If you choose to rent a car, we always rent through Discount Hawaii Car Rental . They are a booking comparison website that uses all the national car carriers but with discounts, you can’t get directly with them. We saved $300 during our trip to the Big Island in January. 

• How to Drive Safely on Maui (plus 13 tips to drive with Aloha)
• How to Choose the Best Car to Rent in Maui 

Have a wonderful first visit to Hawaii.

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

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The 23 Best Hawaii Tours

Make the most of your visit to the Aloha State with one of these top-rated excursions.

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With so much to explore in Hawaii, it's best to start your trip with a knowledgeable guide.

Note: Nonessential travel to Maui is discouraged at this time, due to the wildfire damage Lahaina, Kihei and Upcountry Maui sustained in August 2023. For more information and updates on Maui, visit the Hawaii Tourism Authority  website .

When you're not relaxing on Hawaii's golden beaches, you'll want to explore its distinct natural wonders by land, sea and air. After all, the state is home to the tallest mountain in the world (Mauna Kea – when measured from its submarine base, it surpasses Mount Everest), the world's highest sea cliffs (the Kalaupapa Cliffs) and two of the world's most active volcanoes (Kilauea and Maunaloa). The best way to see these jaw-dropping sights is with a guided tour. Led by in-the-know locals, these tours will help you experience all of the state's incredible wildlife, scenery, culture and food. Relying on both expert opinion and traveler input, U.S. News determined these to be the best tours in Hawaii.

Wasabi Tours Hawaii – Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes, Waterfalls, Sightseeing, History

Enjoy a jam-packed day exploring the Big Island 's top sights on this 11- to 12-hour tour. You'll start your day with a stop at a Kona coffee farm where you'll learn about the harvesting and milling process. Then, you'll continue on to Punalu'u Beach (famous for its black sand) and Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park . You'll also visit some of the island's most magnificent waterfalls, including Akaka Falls , Rainbow Falls and the Waipio Valley . According to reviewers, this tour is a great way to see a lot of the island in a short amount of time. Many tourgoers say the day flies by thanks to the engaging guides. Tours are capped at 12 participants and are generally available daily starting at 7 a.m. Tickets, which include a picnic-style lunch, snacks and bottled water, cost about $195 per adult and $175 per child ages 12 and younger. The company runs a variety of tours around the island, including a waterfall tour of the Waipio Valley and Hamakua Coast.

[View & Book Tickets: Option 1 | Option 2 | Option 3 .]

North Shore Beach Bus – Tour of North Shore

If you're visiting Oahu and want to explore beyond popular Waikiki , consider this daylong bus tour. Among the sights featured are the island's famous North Shore , where surfers from around the world congregate to ride the massive waves. You'll also visit the Dole Plantation, where the island's pineapples are grown. Reviewers give the guide and driver high marks thanks to their friendly attitudes and wealth of knowledge. Others say the tour is well-paced and is a great introduction if this is your first visit to Hawaii. Tours are generally available Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Buses begin picking up passengers at 7:20 a.m.; expect to be back in Waikiki by 5 to 6 p.m. Tickets cost about $130 per adult ages 13 and older, and $120 per child ages 3 to 12; infants 2 and younger can ride for free.

[ View & Book Tickets .]

Hang Loose Boat Tours – Manta Ray Night Snorkel

The waters surrounding the Big Island are feeding grounds for manta rays, which are known for their impressive wingspans and gentle demeanor (manta rays have tails but not stingers or barbs). The best way to see these magnificent creatures up close is on an evening snorkel tour, when boats use bright lights to attract plankton, which in turn draws manta rays in search of food. On this 2 1/2-hour tour, you'll get the chance to snorkel among these gentle giants and may even spot bottlenose dolphins. Tourgoers describe this as a bucket list experience and applaud the attentive, safety-conscious crew. Tours are available daily; departure times vary by month, but tours usually begin between 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $110 per participant ages 12 and older; $90 per child ages 5 to 11 and $35 for infants ages 1 to 4. Ride-along tourgoers who do not want to swim can join for $80 per person. Prices also include snacks and water. Hang Loose Boat Tours also offers whale-watching excursions and snorkeling tours of Kealakekua Bay , among other options.

Royal Star Hawaii Trans & Tours – Grand Circle Island & Haleiwa Town Tour

See all of Oahu's top sights in a day on this nine-hour coach bus tour. Among the stops are the Nuuanu Pali Lookout, the Byodo-In Temple, the Dole Plantation and the surfing town of Haleiwa, which sits on Oahu's majestic North Shore. Reviewers praise the energetic, educational guides and rave about the gorgeous views. Others say this is a great option if you have limited time on the island and want to see the top spots. Tours run Sunday through Friday from approximately 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets cost approximately $110 per adult and $75 per child ages 2 to 11. This company also offers private tours.

Koloa Zipline

Fly across Kauai 's longest zip line course on this exhilarating 3 1/2-hour tour. You'll begin the tour with a lesson on the basics of zip lining before traversing the course's eight lines, which offer incredible views of verdant forests and the Waita Reservoir. In between each zip line, you'll enjoy some light hiking. Those who want an extra thrill can also try zip lining upside down, backward or head first. Tourgoers are equally impressed with the stunning scenery and well-versed guides. Reviewers say you'll enjoy an incredible thrill riding on the zip lines, but also learn a fair amount of Hawaiian history from the personable guides. Many travelers suggest wearing mosquito repellent. You can book a tour Monday through Saturday; tours are available as early as 7:30 a.m. and as late as 3 p.m. Tickets cost about $150 per person ages 7 and older.

Haleakala National Park boasts unforgettable sunrises.

Bike Maui – Haleakala Sunrise Best Self-Guided Bike Tour with Bike Maui

According to reviewers, this sunrise tour is worth the early wake-up call. Depending on the month, you may check in as early as 3 a.m. The tour starts with a van ride up to the summit of Haleakala National Park where you'll be able to enjoy the sunrise – a particular highlight for travelers. Just outside the park at an elevation of 6,500 feet is where you'll begin your self-guided, 23-mile downhill journey, which you can enjoy at your own pace. Reviewers suggest wearing layers as it can get chilly at the summit, but quickly warms up once you're biking. Tours are generally available Monday through Saturday year-round. Check-in times vary by month in accordance with the sunrise. Tour tickets cost around $200, which covers all taxes and associated park fees. You'll also have complimentary use of mountain bikes, helmets, rain gear and backpacks. What's more, Bike Maui offers a guided version of this tour, which reviewers recommend if you don't consider yourself an experienced cyclist.

[View & Book Tickets: Option 1 | Option 2 .]

Hawaii Turtle Tours – Turtle Circle Island Tour

Ideal for travelers short on time, this approximately nine-hour bus tour takes visitors to some of Oahu's top sights, including the Halona Blowhole, Mokolii, the Dole Plantation and the Diamond Head Lookout . Plus, it includes 90 minutes at a beach to swim and snorkel alongside green sea turtles. Travelers give both the driver and the guide two thumbs up and say this is an efficient way to see the island if you don't have a car. Reviewers say this is a great experience to book on one of your first days on the island as the guides will share tips and suggestions that you can apply to the rest of your vacation. Tours are available daily beginning at 7:20 a.m. Tickets cost about $130 for adults and approximately $110 for children ages 4 to 12. Infants 3 and younger ride for free. The use of snorkeling gear is included in the tour cost, but it's suggested that you bring cash for the food stops along the tour. Hawaii Turtle Tours also offers private custom tours.

Redline Rafting Co. – Molokini Crater and South Maui Coast

Visit Molokini Crater – one of only three volcanic calderas in the world – on this five-hour tour with Redline Rafting Co. Home to approximately 250 marine species, Molokini is a snorkeler's paradise. You'll also get the chance to snorkel the famous back wall of Molokini, a well-known dive spot. Additionally, your tour will include a stop at La Perouse Bay, which is home to spinner dolphins. If you're visiting between December and March, you may spot humpback whales. Reviewers praise the informative, fun crew, and report seeing a variety of wildlife, including manta rays, whale sharks and sea turtles. Tours generally depart daily at 7 a.m. from Kihei. Tickets start at $160 for participants ages 8 and older. Breakfast and lunch are included in the ticket price. The company also runs an abbreviated, two-hour Molokini snorkel tour, as well as whale watching excursions .

Sea Maui – Original Sunset Cocktail Cruise

Marvel at views of Molokai, Lanai , Maui and Kahoolawe with a cocktail in hand on this two-hour sunset cruise with Sea Maui. As you take in the view, you'll enjoy chef-prepared appetizers and handcrafted drinks from the open bar. Reviewers rave about the cruise, complimenting the friendly, attentive crew and spectacular views. Others praise the delicious food and drinks. If you time your trip from mid-December to mid-April, you may spot migrating whales. Boat tours depart around 4:30 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. On Tuesday and Thursday, Sea Maui offers a version of this cruise with musicians performing on board. Tickets for the Original Sunset Cocktail Cruise cost about $80 for adults 21 and older, $60 for teens ages 13 to 20 and $50 for children ages 3 to 12. In addition to sunset cruises, Sea Maui also runs snorkel tours.

Air Maui Helicopter Tours – West Maui and Molokai Special

Enjoy a bird's-eye view of Maui and Molokai on this 45-minute helicopter flight. You'll fly over the West Maui Mountains, hidden waterfalls and lush valleys, as well as Molokai, which is home to the world's tallest sea cliffs. Along the way, your pilot will share information about all the sights, as well as Maui history. Reviewers say it's impossible to see these spectacular views from land, and applaud the personable, informative pilots. Others say the price is reasonable for the once-in-a-lifetime experience. Tours are available daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets start at $229 per person. If you'd prefer more time in the air, you can sign up for the company's hourlong version of this tour. Air Maui also offers tours of the entire island, as well as the option to fly with the doors off.

PacWhale Eco-Adventures – Classic Whalewatch

During the winter breeding season, humpback whales are drawn to Maui's warm, temperate waters. Your best chance of spotting these magnificent creatures is aboard a whale watching tour with PacWhale Eco-Adventures. On this two-hour cruise, you'll head out to the 'Au'au Channel between Maui, Molokai and Lanai with a certified marine naturalist on board. In addition to whale sightings, you may also get to hear the whales using the boat's underwater hydrophone. Tourgoers report seeing many whales and praise the crew for their wealth of knowledge. Others say the boat is clean and spacious. Tours are available multiple times daily December through April from two departure points in Maui (Lahaina and Maalaea). Tickets cost about $45 for participants ages 13 and older, and $25 for kids ages 5 to 12; children 4 and younger ride for free. PacWhale Eco-Adventures also offers a variety of snorkeling tours and sunset dinner cruises around Maui.

Spinner dolphins are one of many sea creatures you could see during a Hawaiian vacation.

Kona Snorkel Tours – Wild Hawaiian Spinner Dolphin Snorkel Boat Adventure

Snorkel among wild dolphins on this up to four-hour tour. You'll zip along the Kona Coast in a rigid inflatable boat with up to 13 other passengers in search of wild dolphins. Though the boat is fast and can make for a choppy ride, it allows everyone on board to quickly slide into the water at the first dolphin sighting. Note that during the tour you'll be swimming by the dolphins, not with them. Kona Snorkel Tours also does not allow travelers to touch, harass, ride, feed or swim with the dolphins. Many travelers express amazement at the amount of dolphins spotted, and say floating near them is a magical experience. Others applaud the crew for being respectful of the wildlife. Tours are available daily at 7 and 10 a.m. Tickets cost about $120 per person. Snacks, water and use of snorkel gear and flotation devices are covered in the ticket cost. This tour is not recommended for children younger than 5, adults older than 60 or pregnant women. Kona Snorkel Tours also offers snorkeling excursions to the Kealakekua Bay.

Hawaii Forest & Trail – Mauna Kea Summit & Stars Adventure

The Big Island is home to the world's tallest sea mountain, Mauna Kea. A dormant volcano, Mauna Kea sits at nearly 14,000 feet above sea level and more than 30,000 feet from the ocean floor. To visit Mauna Kea's summit, learn more about the volcano's role in Hawaiian legend and its importance to the world of astronomy (it is home to 13 of the world's largest telescopes), consider joining this guided tour from Hawaii Forest & Trail. On the seven- to eight-hour journey, you and up to 11 other participants will journey to the summit at sunset before descending to a lower elevation to admire the stars using the company's Celestron telescope. Reviewers compliment the tour guides for their attention to safety, their passion for astronomy and their cultural knowledge. Many travelers advise dressing warm as the temperatures at the summit are frigid (as low as 32 degrees Fahrenheit). Tickets, which include a picnic-style dinner, dessert, hot chocolate and tea, cost about $235 per participant ages 16 and older. Note that children younger than 16 are not permitted due to the possibility of altitude sickness. Tour availability and departure times can vary by month, with some tours departing as early as 1:25 p.m. Check the website to view the full schedule. Hawaii Forest & Trail also offers guided tours through Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, among other options.

Kauai Sea Tours – Na Pali Snorkel Tour

Snorkel along the Napali Coast on this 5 1/2-hour adventure with Kauai Sea Tours. You'll zip around the coast on a rigid inflatable raft as the crew shares information about Kauai's history and the animals that inhabit these waters. As you cruise, keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, sea turtles and humpback whales (from December to March). Reviewers warn that the raft ride can get bumpy at times, but thanks to the boat's size and easy maneuverability, the snorkeling portion of the experience is memorable, with many calling this the highlight of their time in Kauai. Tours are typically available daily at 7:15 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Tickets cost around $175 for adults and $155 for kids ages 3 to 12. Kauai Sea Tours also offers whale watching excursions and sunset sails, among other options.

Blue Hawaiian – Kauai ECO Adventure Helicopter Tour

Did you know that 90% of Kauai is inaccessible by car? To marvel at the island's hard-to-reach natural wonders, consider signing up for a helicopter tour from Blue Hawaiian. On this 50-minute flight, you'll soar over Manawaiopuna Falls (where the opening scenes of "Jurassic Park" were filmed), the Olokele and Waimea canyons, and the Napali Coast. If time allows, you may also fly over Mount Waialeale, a dormant shield volcano. Reviewers say the tour is worth the money thanks to the unparalleled views and informative pilots. Flights are available Monday through Saturday beginning at 8 a.m. The last flight of the day departs at 4:15 p.m., though departures may be earlier depending on the month. Tickets start at $314 per person. Blue Hawaiian also offers helicopter tours of other islands, including Oahu and Maui.

X-Treme Parasail

Enjoy a bird's-eye view of Waikiki, Diamond Head and more as you fly up to 1,000 feet in the air via parasail on this hourlong tour. Tourgoers hail the crew for their attention to safety and ability to create a fun atmosphere. Many describe it as a bucket list activity that's worth the expense. Tours are available on the hour from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Tickets for parasailers start at around $65; observers who do not want to parasail, but still want to ride on the boat pay about $45. The company also offers Jet Ski rentals and flyboarding experiences.

Kailua Beach Adventures – 2-Hour Guided Kayak Excursion

This beginner-friendly kayak tour is jam-packed with activity. You'll kayak in Oahu's Kailua Bay to Popoia Island, where nesting sea birds live. You'll have time to hike around the island, explore tide pools and enjoy a snack. Tourgoers offer glowing reviews for the guides, who they describe as full of energy and very knowledgeable. Reviewers also say they captured amazing photos on this trip. You can opt for a self-guided version of this tour, but reviewers only recommend that if you consider yourself an experienced kayaker as you'll have to navigate some choppy waters. Guided tours are available Monday through Saturday as early as 7:30 a.m., with multiple departures per day. Tickets cost about $180 per adult and approximately $160 for children between the ages of 8 and 12. The tour cost covers the use of kayaking and snorkeling gear, lunch and free parking. The company also operates kayak tours suited for advanced kayakers that explores hidden tide pools and the Mokulua Islands.

The Napali Coast is well-known for its staggering cliffs.

Holo Holo Charters – Napali Sunset Dinner Tour

Enjoy a memorable sunset dinner cruise aboard Holo Holo Charters' 65-foot catamaran as you admire the stunning Napali Coast. The 3 1/2-hour tour includes appetizers, dinner, dessert and drinks (including alcoholic beverages), as well as a sparkling wine toast at sunset. Reviewers gush about the stunning views and attentive crew, with many calling this tour a "can't-miss" experience. Cruises are generally available daily; departures vary by season. Tickets for adults cost around $160; tickets for children ages 5 to 12 cost about $140. For safety reasons, pregnant women and children younger than 5 are not allowed to tour. Holo Holo Charters also offers snorkeling tours, among other options.

Temptation Tours – Hana Ultimate Tour

If you're hoping to drive the legendary Road to Hana , but don't want to maneuver the 54-mile winding highway on your own, consider booking this van tour. You'll start your day with breakfast in Kahului or Pa'ia before hitting up some of the top sights along the highway, including Waikani Falls and Ho'okipa – a world-renowned windsurfing spot. You'll also enjoy a three-course lunch and have the option to swim at a black sand beach or in a pool beneath a waterfall. Tourgoers call guides knowledgeable and passionate, and say breakfast and lunch are delicious. Many reviewers recommend opting for this tour instead of trying to drive the road yourself to be able to fully enjoy the experience. Tours are limited to eight participants and include round-trip hotel transportation. Trips depart daily starting at 7 a.m. and return at approximately 6 p.m. Tickets cost about $250 per person. You can also add on a helicopter flight to this tour, or to save some money by opting for the "meet your guide" option, which does not include round-trip hotel transportation or any meals.

Kayak Kauai – Wailua River Sacred Falls Tour

Enjoy a leisurely paddle on Kauai's Wailua River followed by a hike to a tropical waterfall on this five-hour tour. Along the way, you'll enjoy plenty of wildlife-watching opportunities, and learn about the history of the river, which is considered one of Hawaii's most sacred places. Tourgoers call this experience a must-do in Kauai and applaud the courteous, knowledgeable guides, who reviewers say provide a wealth of information about Hawaiian history and culture. However, a few warn of heavy tourist crowds at the waterfall. Tickets cost approximately $110 for adults and $95 for children ages 6 to 12. Note that the tour is not suited for kids 5 and younger. Tours depart several times daily beginning at 7:45 a.m. The company operates a variety of other kayaking and hiking tours around Kauai. Prefer to explore solo? Kayak Kauai also rents gear.

Body Glove Cruises – Captain Cook Dinner Cruise to Kealakekua Bay

Cruise 12 miles down the Kona Coast to the Captain Cook Monument on this three-hour boat tour. Along the way, an onboard historian will share information about Hawaiian history and culture. Once you arrive in the Kealakekua Bay, you'll enjoy a Hawaiian-style dinner and live entertainment as you marvel at the sunset. Travelers give the crew kudos for their attentiveness and say the music is fantastic. Others rave about the sunset views and many say they spotted dolphins. Tours are available Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday at 4 p.m. Tickets cost about $150 for adults ages 18 and older and approximately $90 for kids ages 6 to 17. Children 5 and younger can cruise for free. Dinner and one complimentary cocktail are included in the ticket price; additional cocktails are available for purchase. Body Glove also offers lunch cruises, as well as whale watching excursions.

Fair Wind Cruises – Morning Kealakekua Snorkeling Tour

Snorkel around the Big Island's Kealakekua Bay – known for its calm, pool-like waters – on this 4 1/2-hour tour. As you cruise along the Kona coast, the crew will share stories of Hawaii's history, including King Kamehameha III – Hawaii's longest reigning monarch. A plant-based breakfast and lunch are served on board, and soda, juice, wine and beer are available to purchase from the cash bar. According to travelers, the boat is well-equipped with a diving platform, snorkeling gear, waterslides and plenty of flotation devices. Reviewers also commend the attentive, friendly crew. However, a few travelers express disappointment with the plant-based meals offered. Tours are generally available daily at 9 a.m., though availability may vary by month. Tickets cost approximately $160 for participants ages 13 and older and $100 for kids ages 4 to 12; children 3 and younger can join for about $30. Fair Wind Cruises offers an afternoon version of this tour, as well as a variety of other snorkeling excursions around the island.

Living Ocean Tours – Turtle Canyons Snorkel Excursion

The appropriately titled Turtle Canyons is known as a sea turtle hangout spot. It's at this area along the Waikiki coast that green sea turtles congregate as reef fish swim around them and clean their shells. It's also the perfect place to go snorkeling if you're interested in getting up close to the majestic creatures. On this two-hour snorkel trip, you'll cruise along the coast before having time to get in the water in search of the marine life at Turtle Canyons. Depending on the season, you may also spot dolphins and humpback whales during the tour. Reviewers admire the passionate crew, and say they are especially helpful with kids. Others plan to book this same tour on future visits to the island. Tours are available daily beginning at 7 a.m., with multiple departure times per day. Tickets cost about $75 per person ages 3 and older. Juices, water, light snacks and the use of snorkeling gear are all included in the cost of the tour. Living Ocean also offers private charters.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Oahu Helicopter Tours
• The Best Maui Tours
• Pearl Harbor Tours: Tickets and Tips for Visiting
• The Best Hawaiian Islands
• The Best Hotels in Hawaii
• The Best Cruises to Hawaii
• Top Hawaii Beaches to Visit
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World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
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The Perfect 10-Day Hawaii Itinerary (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

When to Visit Hawaii

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Perfect Hawaii 10-Day Itinerary

Day 1 – maui.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2 – Maui

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 3 – Maui

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 4 – Oahu

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read next: 21 Best Things To Do In Honolulu

Day 5 – Oahu

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 6 – Oahu

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 7 – Kauai

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 8 – Kauai

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 9 – Kauai

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 10 – Kauai

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What to Know Before Planning Your 10-Day Hawaii Itinerary

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

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

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

things to do on the Big Island !

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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

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The Ultimate Oahu Itinerary (2023): 7-10 Days In Oahu Hawaii

Published September 7, 2023 · Updated September 7, 2023

This 7-day Oahu itinerary includes the best highlights on this popular Hawaiian island, the best beaches, hikes, cultural activities. You will also find additional tips to help make the most of your first visit to Oahu.

Oahu is one of the most popular Hawaiian Islands to travel to in the US . There are many things to do and see on the island for everyone, from beaches, hikes, to historical and cultural sites.

Also affectionately referred to as the “Gathering Place,” Oahu is the most visited Hawaiian Island. And with good reason. This hotspot is the perfect slice of paradise. Oahu is best known for its state capital of Honolulu, historic Pearl Harbor, the surfing along North Shore, and world-renowned Waikiki Beach.

If you are travelling to Oahu for the first time, continue reading to find the perfect 10 days in Oahu itinerary to help you plan your ideal Hawaiian vacation. You may just be spending a week (7 days) in Oahu. No matter the case, use this template as a starting point to build the perfect itinerary for Oahu for you.

Your perfect Itinerary for Oahu: How to spend 7 – 10 days on the island

You may be asking yourself, is Oahu worth visiting ? Are there many things to do? The answer is yes! While you do not have to do anything in this exact order, these are the top things many tourists like to do while visiting Hawaii.

How many days in Oahu? Is 10 days enough in Oahu? Is it too much time? If you’re visiting Oahu and Hawaii for the first time, I would recommend spending at least one week to 10 days to explore the island. Doing so, with at least 7 days here, will give you sufficient time to check out the highlights, do a few day trips, enjoy the beaches, get a good feel for the location, and even have some much-needed time to relax and unwind.

>> Read next:

• Beautiful Hawaiian words and phrases to know before you go
• 100 facts about Hawaii that are interesting and terribly fun
• The best bucket list experiences in Hawaii
• Your guide to the best tropical islands to visit
• Get in the mood with these tropical songs about the beach
• Is Oahu one of the best tropical vacations for families ?
• Is Hawaii one of the cheapest places to travel in USA at the moment?

Day 1 – Explore Waikiki

When staying in Oahu, you will most likely stay in Honolulu, specifically in Waikiki. This bucket list travel destination is the main area with all the tourist shopping areas, hotels, and the famous Waikiki Beach.

Walking along the main strip is the best thing to do on your first day because then you will have your barrings and check out restaurants or the shops in the area. You can also hang out on the beach after your long flight to Oahu.

Diamond Head is close to Waikiki, as it is roughly a 12-minute drive. It is a tourist location that many people like to visit. If it rains while you are up there, the metal stairs are very slippery.

The Honolulu Zoo is an excellent location for young children to learn about animals and see them. It is at the South end of Waikiki Beach, so walking from your hotel will be easy.

Day 2 – Explore The Island

Once you have recovered from your travel day, hit the road , explore the island, and stop at any small towns or food trucks you see. You can also stop off at the many beaches along the way, especially if you drive towards the North Shore.

Some of the best beaches are on the North Shore of Oahu, so if you are looking for beautiful beaches, I recommend checking out the beaches on the North Shore. You may even be able to catch people surfing on the beaches.

The hike to Waimea Falls is easy to do on an unplanned stop on the island. It takes 30 minutes to walk to, and it is paved the entire way. There are other things to see or buy from the snacks and bar shops.

The lifeguards will determine swimming conditions at the bottom of the waterfall and make their call at 9:00 AM.

Day 3 – Dole Plantation & Pearl Harbor Memorial Site

The Dole Plantation is something that you should experience at least once on Oahu, especially if you have children.

The Dole Plantation was one of the first pineapple farms to start in Hawaii. It is a fantastic spot to learn about how pineapples are grown and harvested and about some of the history of the plantation.

Their biggest attraction is the Pineapple Express Train, a 20-minute train tour that will take you through the plantations. Inside the building, there are pineapple theme nicknacks and souvenirs to buy or in their food area, their famous pineapple Dole Whip.

There is also a pineapple-shaped maze where you can go and find all the stencils. Or feed some koi at the koi pond. There are also local small business stalls inside and outside the building and food trucks in front to the side of the building.

You must make a stop at the Pearl Harbor Memorial Site on returning to Honolulu. There is a separate Pearl Harbor Tour, but you must book that in advance.

The Pearl Harbor Memorial Site is free to enter; however, there is a parking fee. It is a memorial site to commemorate those lives lost during the World War II surprise attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7th, 1941.

No bags, backpacks, or purses are allowed inside the memorial site and no visit is complete without a stop here.

Day 4 – Kualoa Ranch & Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden

Kualoa Ranch is one of the most highly-rated tour locations on the island. If you have watched Jurassic Park, you may recognize the background when you visit Kualoa Ranch, as the movies were filmed on the ranch.

You may also notice the ranch in the background of other movies and television shows such as Lost, Hawaii Five-0, Godzilla (2000), and more.

They have many tours, such as UTV, ziplining, e-bike, Jurassic Park adventure tours, and more.

Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden is a popular Instagram photo-op spot. Not only is the entrance to the park a picturesque location but inside the gardens too.

The tranquil 400-acre tropical paradise features geographical regions representing other countries such as the Philippines, Malaysia , India, Sri Lanka , Hawaii, Polynesia , Africa , and Tropical America. The beautiful gardens are home to many bird species.

Day 5 – Lanikai

One of the best sunrise hikes on Oahu is located in Lanikai. Lanikai is a small upscale neighbourhood in Kailua. The Lanikai Pillbox Hike is an easy hike to do. There are two old military bunkers, “pillboxes,” along the hike that you can explore.

After the sunrise hike, the famous Lanikai Beach is also a couple of blocks away. It is a stunning soft sand beach where you can swim or snorkel in one of the calmer waters on the island.

Parking may be hard to come by as it is in a residential neighbourhood. Watch out for street signs because officers will give tickets to those illegally parked.

Day 6 – Hanauma Bay

Hanauma Bay is one of the most popular snorkelling spots on the island. You must make a reservation at least two days before, and they will sell out quickly. Parking is also first come, first serve, and you must pay in cash upon arriving.

The park is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays to give time for the marine life to have a break from human interactions. You must also watch a mandatory video at the location before entering Hanauma Bay.

However, despite all that, Hanauma Bay is a nature preserve cove where you can swim, snorkel, and see many tropical fish, coral reefs, and other marine animals.

It is perfect for all levels of snorkellers who have or have not snorkelled before. You can rent snorkel equipment from Hanauma Bay, but renting it from elsewhere on the island or bringing your own equipment from home will save you some money.

Day 7 – Ka’ena Point Hike

One of my favourite hikes from my Oahu trip was the Ka’ena Point hike with my family. It is an easy hike with moderate areas, depending on which entrance you come from, the South or North entrance.

It is a beautiful hike. No matter which entrance you are on, the ocean will crash against the shore and the mountain at your side. They both lead to the protected bird sanctuary at the end.

Depending on the time of year to hike Ka’ena Point, you may be able to see other mammals, such as dolphins or whales.

Day 8 – Surfing Lessons & Shopping

The highlight of my trip was learning how to surf in Waikiki. It is a lot of fun and worth the money. Many surf shops along the main strip of Waikiki will have surfing lessons for all ages.

If you are an experienced surfer, the North Shore is known to have the best waves for experienced surfers.

Shopping at Ala Moana is an excellent mall if you are looking to get some shopping done or hide from the rain if it is raining outside.

Foodland is similar to Wholefoods, but they have a wide selection of Poke (pronounced po-kay), which is raw fish (tuna or salmon) mixed with other ingredients and sauces. It is a popular dish in Hawaii served as an appetizer or a lunch/dinner meal. Other locations around the island sell Poke, so you will have no issues finding Poke.

Don Quijote (no relation to the book) is a Japanese convenience store where you can buy groceries and take-out hot and ready food. There are also other souvenirs that you can buy. It is open 24 hours, so you can grab a midnight snack if you are hungry.

Day 9 – Koko Crater Hike & Attend A Luau

The Koko Crater hike is a moderate to challenging hike to do on the island. It is a steep hike up old abandoned railway tracks along the side of the crater. There are no flat resting stops, no shade, and it is all inclined.

If you are a beginner hiker, take your time. Do not be scared to climb on your hands and feet sometimes when coming back down the crater.

However, once you reach the top, seeing the beautiful view of Hanauma Bay, the surrounding landscapes, and the ocean is well worth it.

In the evening, a traditional party in Hawaii is a Luau. A Luau features food , entertainment, and other activities. It is a fun traditional thing to do in Hawaii that you should experience with family or friends .

Day 10 – Do Anything You Want Again

Your last day should be deciding what you want to do again, whether it is hanging out at a beach you enjoyed, surfing, or any other activity you did earlier in your trip. Make your last day in Hawaii memorable.

Tips For First-Time Travellers To Oahu

Suppose this is your first time going to Oahu. In that case, there are some tips you need to know when planning to see certain tourist attractions or general travel information.

Arrive as early as possible: Most places do not include reserved parking when reserving locations. We were okay with finding parking when we visited because we arrived at least 30 minutes before opening.

For locations like Hanauma Bay, for example, parking is first come, first serve, regardless of your entrance fee time. Diamond Head has tickets for entrance and parking included, but they also go fast.

Reserve for the earliest timeslots: Not everyone is an early bird, but when in Oahu, the best time is to reserve the earliest timeslot available. For example, we booked a 7:00 AM surfing lesson slot, which was perfect because barely anyone was in the water with us.

Plan tourist attractions ahead of time: Some locations sometimes do not have the option to book same-day tours. It is best to book them one to two days in advance before you plan on visiting.

Renting a car: Renting a car while in Oahu is the best option because it will allow you to explore the island on your schedule. While you can use local buses but the buses may take hours to reach your destination or even to pick you up.

Reef-safe sunscreen: The State of Hawaii prefers people to use reef-safe sunscreen when doing water activities.

Traffic: Mostly in the city there is traffic. Remember that if you plan on visiting somewhere outside of Honolulu, you provide additional traffic time on your route.

Finishing up…

Breaking down 7 – 10 days in Oahu itinerary is easy, once you know where to go and what to do. You will find such an abundance of things to do and see with family and friends. Whether you visit historical sites, hang out by the beach all day, or surf the entire trip, you will have a fantastic time on the beautiful island of Oahu.

If you have any questions or need help with planning your holidays to Oahu, don’t hesitate to let me know. Also, be sure to check out this list of tropical islands for holidays for even more inspiration around the world. If you’re considering the Caribbean. be sure to check out these cheapest Caribbean islands to visit .

Mahalo, Rai

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Hawaii Adventure: A 10-Day Island Hopping Itinerary

Hawaii, the paradise in the Pacific, is a dream destination for adventure seekers and beach lovers alike. With its stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and rich cultural heritage, this group of islands has something for everyone. If you're planning a Hawaii itinerary 10 days, we've got you covered with an island-hopping itinerary that explores the best of Honolulu , Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island. Get ready for an unforgettable journey through these breathtaking islands.

A tour at a glance

Day 1: honolulu, day 2: oahu's famous beaches, day 3: pearl harbor and north shore, day 4: lanikai and kailua, day 5: oahu's south shore, day 6: maui adventure begins, day 7: maui's famous beaches, day 8: big island adventure begins, day 9: exploring the big island, day 10: big island's famous volcanoes.

Our private tours typically range from $500 - $1000 per person/per night depending on chosen hotels and room categories, vehicles used, types of tours, flight cost, time of year and other factors. Make an inquiry for a customized trip quote.

Detailed Itinerary

Start your adventure by exploring the city of Honolulu. Visit the historic Iolani Palace and the State Capitol Building. Iolani Palace is the only royal palace in the United States, offering a fascinating glimpse into Hawaii's history and monarchy. Take a guided tour to learn about the Hawaiian monarchy's fascinating past. After your historical exploration, head to the State Capitol Building, an architectural marvel that resembles the volcano goddess Pele's lava flows. It's an excellent spot for some memorable photos.

Oahu is home to some of the world's most famous beaches. Spend your day soaking up the sun at Waikiki Beach, where you can enjoy water sports like paddle boarding and surfing. The gentle waves at Waikiki make it a perfect spot for beginners to learn to surf, and you can rent equipment and take lessons from local instructors. If you want to take a break from the beach, visit the iconic Diamond Head State Monument, offering panoramic city views. The hike to the summit is moderate and rewards you with stunning coastline vistas and cityscapes.

Pay your respects at Pearl Harbor, a historic site commemorating the 1941 attack that led the United States into World War II. Explore the USS Arizona Memorial, where you can witness the sunken battleship, and then visit the USS Missouri, where the surrender documents ending the war were signed. After you visit Pearl Harbor, head to the North Shore of Oahu. This area is known for its colossal waves and famous Sunset Beach. Even if you're not a surfer, watching the professionals ride these massive waves is a mesmerizing experience. If you're visiting during winter, you'll witness the thrilling action of big wave surfing competitions. The laid-back atmosphere and pristine coastline make the North Shore a must-visit destination.

On the eastern side of Oahu, you'll discover the serene and picturesque Lanikai and Kailua beaches. These secluded, white-sand beaches are perfect for swimming, kayaking, and taking in the stunning views of the Mokulua Islands in the distance. While in the area, hike up the Lanikai Pillboxes Trail for a breathtaking sunrise or sunset experience. The short hike takes you to World War II-era military bunkers, known as pillboxes, with panoramic views of the eastern coastline.

Your Oahu adventure continues on the island's south shore, known for its beautiful bays and stunning beaches. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is a fantastic spot for snorkeling and marine life viewing. The crystal-clear waters and abundant colorful fish and coral reefs make it a snorkeler's paradise. There are things to remember when traveling to Hawaii , as the bay's daily visitor limit is in place to protect its delicate ecosystem. After exploring Hanauma Bay, relax on the stunning Waimanalo Beach. The calm, turquoise waters and soft sands create the perfect setting for a leisurely beach day. You can swim, sunbathe, or enjoy the island's beauty.

Fly to Maui, known as the "Valley Isle." Begin your Maui adventure with a visit to Lahaina, a historic whaling village with charming shops and restaurants. Explore Lahaina's Front Street, where you can find art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants with oceanfront views. Don't miss the scenic drive along the Hana Highway, where you can explore lush rainforests, waterfalls, and black sand beaches. The winding road is an adventure in itself, with numerous stops along the way to admire the natural beauty of Maui. Be sure to visit spots like the Garden of Eden Arboretum, Wailua Falls, and the Ohe'o Gulch, also known as the Seven Sacred Pools.

Maui is renowned for its beautiful beaches. Spend your day exploring some of the island's most famous shores. Kaanapali Beach, located on the west side of Maui, is known for its pristine white sands and clear waters. It's a perfect place for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports like snorkeling and parasailing. For a unique underwater adventure, consider taking a snorkeling trip to Molokini Crater, a volcanic atoll just off the coast of Maui. This marine sanctuary is teeming with abundant fish and marine life, offering an unforgettable experience for snorkelers and divers.

Fly to the Big Island of Hawaii, the largest and most geologically active island in the Hawaiian archipelago. The Big Island is famous for its active volcanoes and diverse landscapes, offering a unique blend of adventure and natural wonders. Your first stop should be Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This park is a testament to the incredible power of nature, with Kilauea Crater being one of the most active volcanoes on the planet. Explore the park's attractions, including the Kilauea Visitor Center, Thurston Lava Tube, and the Chain of Craters Road. Remember to check the latest updates on volcanic activity to ensure safety during your visit.

The Big Island is a treasure trove of natural beauty and unique attractions. Start your day by visiting the stunning Rainbow Falls in Hilo. These waterfalls are stunning in the morning when the sunlight creates rainbows in the mist. Akaka Falls State Park is another must-see destination on the Big Island. A short hike through a lush rainforest leads you to Akaka Falls, a stunning 442-foot waterfall. The observation deck offers breathtaking views of the falls and the surrounding landscape.

For a unique beach experience, head to the Punalu'u Black Sand Beach. The black sand is created by volcanic activity and provides a striking backdrop to the turquoise waters. Keep an eye out for Hawaiian green sea turtles basking on the shores. To take your adventure to new heights, consider taking a helicopter tour over the Big Island. These tours offer a bird's-eye view of the volcanic landscapes, lush valleys, and cascading waterfalls, providing a perspective you can't get from the ground.

Before departing, spend your final day on the Big Island exploring Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, two of the world's most massive and dormant volcanoes. Mauna Kea is renowned for its exceptional stargazing conditions, and you can visit the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station to observe the night sky through powerful telescopes. It's a surreal experience that will leave you in awe of the universe.

Conclude your Hawaii adventure with a relaxing visit to a black sand beach like Pohoiki or Punulu'u. These beaches offer a unique setting for reflecting and appreciating the volcanic forces that have shaped the island. You can also enjoy some beachcombing and spot sea turtles. After your final moments on the Big Island, head back to the airport for your departure, with you the memories of a remarkable 10-day journey through the diverse wonders of Aloha State.

Also Read:   Hawaii Travel Guide For First Timers - 3 Things You Must Know

Embark on an Unforgettable Hawaiian Escape

Experience the magic of Hawaii with our expert travel guidance , making your dream island-hopping adventure effortless and extraordinary. Whether you're drawn to breathtaking beaches or rich cultural experiences, we ensure a seamless journey filled with unforgettable moments. Picture yourself exploring volcanic landscapes, savoring local delicacies, and lounging in luxurious accommodations. Stay updated with our newsletter for exclusive offers and insights. Let's make your Hawaii adventure truly remarkable!

Discover Hidden Gems on Your Hawaiian Journey

Excited to plan your Hawaiian getaway? Dive into the wonders of this tropical paradise with these enticing recommendations:

Indulge in a Hawaiian Odyssey : The Perfect Hawaii Adventure

Seeking Serenity in Hawaii? Discover the Best 6-Day Hawaii Honeymoon Itinerary

Crafting Your Perfect Hawaiian Itinerary? The Best Family Cruise to Hawaii

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THE 10 BEST Hawaii Tours & Excursions

Hawaii tours.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Helicopter Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Hughes 500 4-passenger Doors-Off Helicopters

2. Grand Tour Around Island 16 Locations plus Snorkeling

3. Favorite Oahu Whale Watch! (2 Hour Tour! Ala Wai Harbor, Oahu)

4. Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History

5. Mauna Kea Summit Sunset and Stars - Hilo Kona Waikoloa Pick Up

6. Pearl Harbor USS Arizona Memorial

7. From Maalaea Harbor: Whale Watching Tours Aboard the Quicksilver

8. Maui Snorkeling Molokini Crater and Turtle Town

9. Edible Hibiscus Guided Farm Tour (Big Island)

10. Big Island Zipline over KoleKole Falls

11. Molokini and Turtle Town Snorkeling Adventure Aboard the Malolo

12. Mauka Warriors Luau Honoring Polynesia's Forgotten History

13. Night Manta Ray Adventure on the Big Island, Hawaii

14. Toa Luau at Waimea Valley

15. Private Adventure Photography Experience in Lihue

16. Secret Falls Kayak Hike in Kauai

17. "PRIVATE" Kauai DOORS OFF Helicopter Tour & "NO MIDDLE SEATS"

18. Pearl Harbor USS Arizona Memorial & Battleship Missouri

19. Maui Luau: Gilligans' Island Luau in Kihei

20. Turtle Canyon Snorkel Adventure

21. Luau Ka Hikina Admission Ticket with Dinner and Lei Greeting

22. West Maui Half Day Snorkel from Ka’anapali Beach

23. 4-Hour Molokini Crater plus Turtle Town Snorkeling Experience

24. Deluxe Sail & Snorkel to the Captain Cook Monument

25. Koloa Zipline in Kauai

26. Hilo Shore Excursion: Volcanoes National Park, Rainbow Falls

27. Turtle Canyons Snorkel Excursion from Waikiki, Hawaii

28. Deluxe Na Pali Morning Snorkel Tour on the Lucky Lady

29. Moana’s Sunset Cocktail Sail along Oahu's Waikiki Coast

30. West Maui and Molokai Special 45-Minute Helicopter Tour

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"Hawaii is a dream destination and it never disappoints. With the most stunning nature and a vibrant culture, you'll find your aloha ʻaina in Hawaii."

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Explore the golden beaches of Waikiki

Home of the perfect wave, Waikiki is one of the best-loved places in Hawaii to soak up the sun and sea. Head down to Waikiki Beach, a two-mile strip of powdery white sand, where you can take a dip in the turquoise waters and admire the gorgeous Hawaiian sunset.

Tour the lively seaside village of Kailua-Kona

Set on the west coast of the Big Island (Hawaii Island), Kailua-Kona was once the playground of Hawaiian royalty. Today, it’s a vibrant village and our Local Specialists will show you the dazzling white Kona Hawaii Temple and introduce you to Kona’s coffee culture with a visit to a local coffee plantation.

Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

We’ll reveal the thrilling beauty of Volcanoes National Park on Hawaii’s Big Island with a walk through a real lava tube and a visit to an interpretive museum to learn about these incredible active volcanoes. We’ll also take you for lunch at a restaurant with the steaming Halema'uma'u Crater as the backdrop.

Meet conservation naturalists of the Maui Ocean Center

Dive to the depths of Maui’s underwater world with a visit to the Maui Ocean Centre. We’ll introduce you to the passionate conservation naturalists who will show you around the largest tropical reef aquarium in the Western Hemisphere, filled with sharks, Hawaiian green sea turtles, live Pacific coral and thousands of tropical fish.

Learn about bio-dynamic farming in Hawaii

Make a Difference with a visit to a local farm in Maui, where you’ll discover the island’s sustainable agricultural practices and support the farm-to-table movement. After learning about bio-dynamic farming, you’ll enjoy a gourmet lunch made with ingredients freshly picked from the farm’s gardens and orchards.

Our top 5 things to do in Hawaii

From the sustainable farms of Maui, to the sugary beaches of Waikiki and the volcanoes of Big Island, our Hawaii holiday packages reveal every side of this beautiful state.

Pearl Harbor

USS Missouri

The USS Missouri memorial is dedicated to preserving the famous ship and her story, documenting the ship from the first launch in 1944 until today. As the site where WWII formally ended, the USS Missouri is one of the most important artifacts of the war.

Bishop Museum

The Bishop Museum is the largest museum in Hawaii and houses the world’s largest collection of Polynesian cultural artifacts and over 24 million natural history specimens. There’s also a number of interactive displays, with planetarium shows and a Science Adventure Center.

Iolani Palaca

Built in 1882 in Honolulu, the grand Iolani Palace was once the home of Hawaii’s reigning monarchs. Today it’s a Natural Historic Landmark and a living restoration of Hawaiian culture where you’ll discover the royal histories of King Kalakaua and Queen Liliuokalani.

Best museums in Hawaii

Our Hawaii tour packages show you the vibrant history and culture of Hawaii through the country’s top museums, from indigenous cultures to the history of Pearl Harbor.

A traditional dish of Native Hawaiian cuisine, poke is a dish of diced raw fish (traditionally tuna or octopus), seasoned with green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, seaweed or wasabi. You can find popular modern versions served with additions like avocado, mushrooms, pineapple and jalapeños.

Pork Lau Lau

Pork Lau Lau is a delicious Native Hawaiian dish, made of chunks of pork wrapped in taro (luau) leaf and cooked in a traditional imu oven (an underground pit). Today, pork lau lau is commonly steamed on the stove and served as a lunch dish with a side of rice.

Lomi Lomi Salmon

A traditional Hawaiian dish, lomi lomi salmon is a cold salad of shredded salmon, tomatoes and sweet Maui onions. The name comes from the preparation method, as lomi lomi means ‘to massage’ in Hawaiian, and the salmon is traditionally rubbed with salt by hand before serving.

Best food in Hawaii

Hawaiian cuisine is a tasty blend of native, Asian and European influences, featuring fresh fish, fruit, vegetables and spices. We’ll show you the best spots to taste the classic Hawaiian dishes.

What to pack for Hawaii

With hundreds of beautiful beaches and some of the world’s best surf, you’ll need to pack your swimsuit for your Hawaii trip.

Reef-safe sunscreen

Protect yourself from the sun and protect the coral from Oxybenzone or Octinoxate. Both of these chemicals (commonly found in sunscreen) will be banned in Hawaii from 2021.

Waterproof day bag

Whether you’re trekking to a waterfall or venturing out on a snorkelling trip, you’ll need a waterproof day bag to protect your phones and cameras.

Adaptor plug

In Hawaii, the standard voltage is 120 V and the power plugs and sockets are of type A and B. The standard frequency is 60 Hz.

Hiking shoes

Hawaii is famed for its towering mountains, hidden waterfalls and phenomenal viewpoints, so bring a sturdy pair of shoes for your hiking adventures.

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Hawaii Itineraries

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

Itineraries for Single & Multi-Day Trips to the Hawaiian Islands

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

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

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

— article continued below —

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Itineraries by Hawaii Island

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

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

For nearly 20 years now we’ve been visiting Hawaii and making detailed notes about what each island’s highlights are and what visitors like yourself simply must-see based on the limited time you’ve allocated for each Hawaiian Island. It is difficult and can even be overwhelming to start planning a trip to Hawaii. One quick look on this website and you’ll soon discover there are hundreds of possibilities per island ; a variety of sights to see, a plethora of beautiful beaches to choose from, and a diverse set of incredible trails that criss-cross each of the unique Hawaiian islands. Honestly, you could spend months in Hawaii and not see and do it all. Having a reliable guide, that’s key.

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

Average rounded length of stay per island:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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EPIC 10-DAY HAWAII ITINERARY

HOW TO SPEND 10 DAYS IN HAWAII – AN EPIC ITINERARY

Table of Contents

Are you planning your Hawaii itinerary and wondering about how to spend 10 days in Hawaii? Then read on to find out about the best things to do and along with many more travel tips.

The Hawaiian Islands are one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. Visitors flock from all over the world to this picturesque archipelago known for its year-round good weather, outdoor activities, and warm hospitality.

And Hawaii is like heaven!

This post was written by Rebecca – a regular Hawaii visitor (find out more about her below)

TRAVEL TIPS FOR YOUR 10-DAY HAWAII ITINERARY

Before discussing how to spend 10 days in Hawaii, here are some quick travel tips for your itinerary.

Hawaii has always had a unique culture in comparison to the other US states. Given statehood in 1959 , it is the last state to enter the union and hold onto its culture and traditions.   Over 2,400 miles away from the western shores of California , Hawaii’s daily life is unlike many other places – which is one of the reasons it is such a favorite among tourists.

How many islands are in Hawaii?

• Hawaii is made up of eight major islands : Hawaii (aka the Big Island), Oahu, Maui, Kauai, Lanai, Molokai, Kahoolawe, and Niihau.
• Some islands are uninhabited or not open for tourism , but the major islands that you should visit when coming to Hawaii are Oahu, the Big Island, Maui, and Kauai .  
• Lanai is another possibility , but there is not much to do outside of the resort you stay in.

So, for this 10-day itinerary for Hawaii, we will focus on these four islands – what to do, where to go, and what to see!

Are 10 Days in Hawaii Enough?

Hawaii is a beautiful island paradise.  If you have to put a time limit on your trip, I would advise 10-14 days for all four major islands. If you can stay longer than 10 days, even better!

Weather in Hawaii

• The weather in Hawaii is pretty consistent year-round.
• The lows tend to be between 68ºF and 75ºF , and the highs between 78ºF and 85ºF . The only real variation is if you are closer to sea level (warmer) or higher elevations in the mountains (cooler).
• There is sometimes snow at the summits of the islands’ three tallest volcanoes.  
• Hawaii also has a rainy season, which is from November to March.
• Some areas can be very humid during the summer months , like Honolulu and the touristy Waikiki on Oahu. But higher elevation areas will be less hot and humid, even in the summer.

Best Time to Visit Hawaii

• Generally, the best months to visit Hawaii are April and May, and September and October . These months are known for having the best weather and travel rates, and the least amount of tourists (i.e. fewer crowds).  
• Winters in Hawaii are nice , especially if you are escaping from a cold climate, but they are also very busy, and you’ll be dealing with crowds, expensive flights, and hotel prices. Hawaii is one of the best places to visit in the US in the winter months .
• The downside of summer is that the islands can get pretty humid, especially close to sea level.

How to Get to Hawaii

Unless you’re in the market for a long cruise (about 2 weeks), the only way to get to Hawaii is by plane.

• Each island has at least one major airport.
• Most flights  land at Oahu’s Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu.  
• From there, you can take a small inter-island flight to your final destination.
• Many airlines fly to Hawaii, but my personal favorite is Hawaiian Airlines .  

How to Get Around Hawaii in 10 Days

Once you arrive in Hawaii, I would advise renting a car. You can find the best deals here.

You may be tempted to get a convertible in this island paradise (I did once), but just be aware that it will peg you as a tourist. Locals rarely drive these , but they can be a lot of fun on a visit.

I advise renting a car because while public transportation isn’t bad , it will not allow you the freedom to really explore the nooks and crannies of the islands.  

However, since you have to catch a few flights, you would have to rent a car on each island.

Although taxis and Uber are options, they can get pretty expensive (and they are not that plentiful in some areas). Having your own transportation will make your trip that much more enjoyable.  

You can take a shuttle from the airport to the car rental pick-up location .

What to Pack for a 10-Day Hawaii Trip

Hawaii is easy to pack because the weather is consistent and not cold enough to need bulky outerwear.

 The Hawaiian people are very casual , so bring shorts and t-shirts, flip-flops (or slippers, as they are known here), and a bathing suit .

Maybe pack an umbrella for the rainy days and a sweater for the cooler nights if you head to higher elevations.

Since there are plenty of outdoorsy things to do, bring socks and good sneakers or hiking boots . I explored a volcano in slippers, but that doesn’t mean it’s a good idea!

Check out this post to find out what to pack for a beach vacation.

Where to Stay in Hawaii

Depending on your budget, there are multiple options for travelers looking for a luxury resort, mid-range hotel, and budget-friendly option.

Tourism is Hawaii’s main source of income. So there are a lot of accommodations around, especially on Oahu and Maui.

I recommend the

• Ocean Tower by Hilton Grand Vacations on the Big Island
• the Royal Hawaiian on Oahu,
• and Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa .

More Travel Tips for Your Hawaii Itinerary

Local people in Hawaii speak a mix of English and Hawaiian , known as pidgin. It can be a little confusing if you’re not used to it, but this is mostly toned down when speaking with non-natives.  

Water in Hawaii is actually rainwater that has been caught. In times of drought, water can be in short supply, so be courteous and (even in non-drought times) do not waste water .  

Do not take rocks or pieces of the volcano home with you. This is frowned upon by the locals. They sell souvenirs everywhere, so just buy them.

Drive slower in Hawaii than you normally would on the mainland of the US or in Europe . Speed limits are lower, and locals tend not to speed over them.

Relax and have fun. The island life is at a slower pace than in other places, so sit back and enjoy. This is a vacation, right?

HOW TO SPEND 10 DAYS IN HAWAII – ITINERARY

A word about this 10-day Hawaii itinerary: Many of the places I have included are not just tourist destinations but recommendations from local Hawaiians.  My husband is from the Big Island and has family throughout Hawaii, so their experiences played heavily into my own Hawaii itinerary-making.  

I hope these suggestions give you a taste of real Hawaii beyond the tour guide favorites.

DAY 1- 2: Arrival: Oahu

DAY 3-5: Kauai

DAY 5-7: Maui

DAY 7-10: Big Island

DAY 10: Departure: Honolulu

Day 1: Oahu (Honolulu)

Since you will be flying into Honolulu, Oahu. you should consider staying for a few days and seeing some of the sights.    Just a quick clarification: Waikiki is a district in Honolulu and   Honolulu is a city on Oahu .

In Honolulu, I advise dropping your bags off at the hotel and taking a walk through Waikiki. This is the main tourist drag in the city, and it reminds me of the Las Vegas Strip (but with much less neon).

There are great restaurants , plenty of shopping opportunities, and fun people-watching here.

For dinner, you’ll find some casual eateries as well as fine dining in this area. Or, pick up some food and take it to the beach. You might be tired from the flight, so this should probably be the end of Day 1.

Day 2: Oahu (North Shore)

Today would be a good day for the beach. You have two options.

If your hotel has private beach access and you feel like just relaxing today , you can stay at the hotel beach and enjoy the hotel’s amenities.

Or, you could drive to the north side of the island, which is known for its surfing and snorkeling .  The drive is about 45 minutes.

Depending on when you are visiting, you may see a world-famous surf competition here on the North Shore , or if it’s summer, the snorkeling is prominent as the water is calm.

Consider taking a snorkeling tour as it is one of the best ways to explore local marine life. Check the tours below and choose the best one.

Either way, you’ll find that this is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.

Stop in the town of Haleiwa for some supplies . There are a few plate-lunch places where you can get delicious Hawaiian fare to go for a beach picnic. There are also lots of small shops and galleries, which would be perfect for souvenirs.

Enjoy a day at one of Hawaii’s most famous beaches before heading over to the Dole Plantation .   Pineapples are grown here, and there are tours offered throughout the day. It’s pretty cool and worth a look while you’re on this side of the island.

Finish your day off with dinner at Hali’ewa Beach House , which has a great terrace with views.

Day 3 Morning: Oahu

Today will be about taking an inter-island flight to Kauai, the next major island just northwest of Oahu. But before heading to the airport, you need to fuel up on something delicious that all the locals love.

Malasadas:  These Portuguese donuts are absolutely delicious, and the best place on Oahu to get them is at Leonard’s on Kapahulu Avenue in Honolulu . Don’t let its small storefront fool you. This place makes amazing malasadas, and they sell out fast. So, head there early for your morning meal.

Day 3 Afternoon: Kauai

Depending on what time you fly out of Oahu and check in to your hotel in Kauai, you may or may not have much time for sightseeing. But assuming you have at least a few hours, I advise a sunset helicopter tour, followed by some of Kauai’s nightlife.

Helicopter Tour:  Much of Kauai is not accessible by car, so it makes sense to explore it by air.

Book a helicopter tour to see the natural beauty of Kauai from above . You’ll be able to see the winding rivers, rushing waterfalls , forests, and dramatic sea cliffs from a whole new perspective. The dramatic light of the setting sun makes it even more memorable.

Kauai Nightlife:  If you’re traveling with kids, stop for dinner at Hukilau Lanai Restaurant in Kapa’a, where you can enjoy a delicious meal on the lanai (patio) and hear traditional Hawaiian live music (performing Wed – Fri nights).

For a more adults-only vibe , check out Stevenson’s Library in Poipu , named after author Robert Louis Stevenson. This place has a great ambiance and drinks and has nightly jazz performances.

For couples, I recommend Duke’s Barefoot Bar on Kalapaki Beach for a casual dinner on the open-air terrace, and if it’s the weekend, music and dancing, too. This bar also serves a good variety of non-alcoholic cocktails for those who don’t drink.

Afterward, take a walk on the beach together.

Day 4: Kauai

Kauai is a mecca for outdoor activities . And you don’t have to be especially sporty to enjoy them. This island will look like what many people imagine when they think of “Hawaii.” And that’s no accident. Many movies are shot on Kauai since it feels and looks like “real Hawaii.”

So, today will be the day we explore “the Garden Isle.” The order you do the following things in is up to you. You can skip some or take longer on others , it is up to you.  

Hanalei River:   This is a great place to kayak and paddleboard. Most people usually start in Hanalei Bay and work their way down the palm-lined river. It’s beautiful and also a great workout! Best to start early to avoid crowds and take in the early morning scenery.

Napali Coast:   Take a boat tour to see the Napali Coast.  This rugged and gorgeous area includes sea cliffs, waterfalls, turquoise water, and sandy beaches . A boat tour is a must and will give you a chance to take in a lot of this beautiful and vibrant stretch of coastline. Some tours include snorkeling and sailing , and more.

Kapaa Beach Park:   Rent bikes in Kapaa and ride the trail at Kapaa Beach Park. You don’t have to be an expert cyclist to enjoy this scenic trail. This is fun for families as well as couples.

Princeville:   If you’d rather stick closer to town, then check out Princeville.  This area boasts the lovely Princeville Botanical Gardens, which offers a 3-hour walking tour that lets you see everything, as well as enjoy fruit and honey samples – and a chocolate tasting! A great stop for couples.

Poipu:   For families , Poipu is a great area to stay and play. Some beaches and activities are fun for kids here – such as ATV tours and sailing charters . There is also a lot to do if you are staying at the Grand Hyatt Poipu. I suggest a luau   experience where you can enjoy traditional Hawaiian food, a great ambiance, and lots of hula dancing for dinner.

The Kalalau Trail:   This is a bonus suggestion for the adventurous and advanced hiker : Located within the Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park, the Kalalau Trail is a steep, 11-mile footpath that runs between He’e Beach and Kalalau Beach . This trail is renowned for its challenges, but it is also a way to see the Napali Coast up close, including five valleys that you will cross.   Bring your hiking boots, a walking stick, supplies , and some determination for this trail.

Depending on what you choose to do, 2-3 of these activities should fill up Day 4.  

Day 5 Morning: Kauai/Maui

For Day 5 of this Hawaiian 10-day itinerary, I suggest doing a few more things in Kauai for the first half of the day and then flying on to Maui.  

If you spent yesterday hiking, go sailing today in Poipu . To relax, go for the chocolate tasting at the Botanical Gardens in Princeville.

Or enjoy the pool and amenities at your resort.  

When you’re ready to see your next Hawaiian island, then take an inter-island flight from Lihue Airport to Kahului Airport on Maui.  

Day 5 Afternoon: Maui

Maui is famous for its beaches and its volcano . The island has 30 miles of coastline beaches that feature red, white, and black sand and the world’s largest dormant volcano – Haleakala.  

If you’re visiting in winter, you can also whale watch from this island, either in Lahaina or Ma’alaea Harbor. But Maui is great for shopping, eating, snorkeling, hiking, and windsurfing.

Once you are in Maui and check into your hotel (not to mention rent your car), it may be nearing the end of the day. So, now would be a good time to enjoy the sunset.

I suggest heading to the beach. Ka’anapali is a sandy beach on the northwest side of the island that is popular with the locals and features a lava promontory . “Black Rock,” as it is called, is good for snorkeling and cliff jumping.

Or you could head over to Kamaole 1, 2, or 3, located on the southwest side, which are very family-friendly beaches that have lifeguards on duty and sea turtles .  Check out the family-friendly activities in Maui for more info.

You can pick up dinner to eat at the beach or have a sit-down meal . Try Aloha Mixed Plate in Lahaina – amazing views with great local food.  

This brings us to the end of Day 5.  

Day 6: Maui  

If you’re an early riser, I suggest heading over to Mount Haleakala to watch the sunrise . This dormant volcano gives you the perfect vantage point to enjoy the sun rising over the ocean. Sunrise Tours are available for booking.

If you didn’t have breakfast, then I suggest stopping at Kula Lodge for great food and views. After that, you have a few options.

Black Rock:  If you were intrigued by the idea of cliff jumping , then head (back) to Black Rock in Ka’anapali. The cliff is about 20-30 feet up and is a real adrenaline rush for adventure lovers.

Ho’okipa Beach:   Maui is known as one of the world’s best windsurfing islands. So, head over to Ho’okipa Beach to enjoy this fun outdoor activity. If you’re just a beginner, then I’d suggest Kanaha Beach Park for calmer surf.

Hana hikes :   On the Hana side of the island, there are multiple hiking options. The best as far as ease would be the Pools of Oheo Trail, which has a 200-foot waterfall at the top of the trail. Another option is Black Sand Beach and Blowhole, which is good for all skill levels and is a relaxing hike – good for families.

Aquarium at Ma’alaea Harbor:   If you’re traveling with kids, you could take them to the Aquarium at the Maui Ocean Center. Sitting on 3 acres, this is the largest tropical reef aquarium in the Western Hemisphere.

Grab dinner or a drink at one of the local eateries (try Leilani’s on the Beach in Ka’anapali) before getting some much-deserved rest.

These activities should give you more than enough to do on Day 6.

Day 7 Morning: Maui

Today, we say goodbye to Maui. My suggestion is to stop at Kihei Caffe for an authentic Hawaiian breakfast and coffee that will start your day right. Then, head out for one last Maui adventure.

Day 7 Afternoon: Big Island

When you’re ready, grab a flight to the next island, landing on the Big Island of Hawaii at Kona International Airport.

The Big Island of Hawaii is known for its dormant volcano, Mauna Kea , whose summit is so high that it gets snow.   There are also two active volcanoes – Kilauea and Mauna Loa. The island has everything from colored sand beaches to rainforests and offers great spots for snorkeling and hiking . This is actually my favorite Hawaiian island.

Since this is (obviously) the biggest of the Hawaiian Islands, we will split our time between the western Kona side and the eastern Hilo side.

So, spend the rest of the day exploring the Kona side of the island.  Take a walk through Holualoa, where you’ll find many boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries.

The cute Holuakoa restaurant is a great choice when you’re ready to sit down and eat. This area is really nice and not overly touristy either.

Just north of Holualoa is Kailua-Kona. There are some enjoyable, laid-back things to do here. The main street is called Ali’i Drive, and there’s plenty of shopping, food, music, and more.

If you’d like to explore some of Hawaii’s history , stop at the Hulihee Palace to see where Hawaiian royalty once vacationed. Or check out Mokuaikaua Church from the 1800s, the oldest Christian church in Hawaii.

End your night with dinner, drinks, or, best yet, some Hawaiian shaved ice. These ice cones come in dozens of flavors – and are best served with some ice cream in the middle. Yum.

Day 8: Big Island (Kona)

Start Day 8 of this itinerary at The Coffee Shack in Captain Cook . You’ll overlook the views of Kealakekua Bay while enjoying a tasty breakfast.  

Captain Cook/Kealakekua Bay:  After eating, head over to the bay for some snorkeling . Some great boat tours will take you out toward the Captain Cook Monument . I actually saw whales while doing one of these – amazing!  

Captain Cook Monument Trail:  If you prefer to hike, then try the Captain Cook Monument Trail. You can drive to the parking area at the top of the trail. It’s just under 2 miles, but just so you know – the downhill part is easy, but the trek back to your car is less so!

Kayaking at Kealakekua Bay : Another favorite activity is kayaking, which you can do in Kealakekua Bay by starting at Napoopoo Road. This will also take you to the Captain Cook Monument.

Best parks for the kids:  In Kona, there are a few great parks for the kids to play in and explore. If you want to take a break from activities and just relax, either head down to the beach (Hapuna Beach is a favorite) or try one of these:

Higashihara Park in Kona – This one is older but still good.

Waimea Park in Waimea – This one was just redone and lots of fun.

Mauna Kea Recreation Area – Located on Saddle Road, this one connects the Kona side to the Hilo side, so this will work for either Day 8 or 9.

That should do it for Day 8. Get some rest because we’re heading to Hilo tomorrow.

Day 9: Big Island (Hilo)

Before we head to Hilo, we will make a stop because on the Big Island, you have to see a volcano .  

On the south side of the island, you can stop at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. This takes about 2 hours to reach from Kona. You’ll notice black sand beaches , so pull over for some pictures. They’re gorgeous.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park:  At the volcano park, you can go exploring on your own (though you risk getting lost as I did), or you can take a Ranger-led tour. If you’ve never seen a volcano up close, this is really interesting and worth a short visit.

From the volcanoes, it will take about 45 minutes to get to Hilo . This side of the island feels a little more urban than Kona (though nothing like Honolulu).   There’s even a mall. But whether you want to hit the beaches, shop, or play outdoors, Hilo has lots of options.

Narnia Falls:  If you enjoy hiking , I suggest visiting Narnia Falls. This “secret” area can be found by parking by the Boiling Pots Lake, hiking up to the overlook, climbing over the rail, and heading down a trail to the left. This will take you to four waterfalls that empty in one pool.  Y ou can swim here (though it may not be advisable).

Panaewa Rainforest Zoo:  This cute zoo covers 12 acres and is a fun stop if you’re traveling as a family. It’s free and offers a nice playground for the kids to play on.  

Ziplining: This  is a fun activity on the Big Island. Rushing over the beautiful rainforest and waterfalls is unforgettable. Check in  at the Grand Naniloa Resort and then drive up the Hamakua Coast to Zipline Through Paradise, a company specializing in these zipline tours. This activity is great for couples, solo travelers, and families. It takes about 4 hours.

Day 10: Big Island/Oahu

Well, today is the last day for this itinerary. And while you can stay longer (or may have had to leave sooner), we will be ending this trip by driving back around Kona to the north , so you have circumnavigated the whole island.

As you’re heading from Hilo back to Kona, stop at Tex Drive-in for some of the best malasadas on the island- Can you tell I love these little balls of fried dough? It’s located on the north shore of the Big Island, in Honokaa.

Drop off your rental car and grab a flight back to the Daniel K. Inouye Airport in Honolulu.

Day 10 Afternoon: Honolulu

Once you’ve arrived, if there’s time before your flight home, I suggest getting in one more taste of the islands. (Luggage storage is available in Terminal 2 of the airport, so you can move around without lugging your bags!)

Pearl Harbor:  Not far from the airport is Pearl Harbor. For free, you can see the USS Arizona Memorial there and learn a little bit about the history that led up to the US’s entrance into WWII .

Diamond Head:  Or, if you want to get one last good look at Oahu, then head to Diamond Head for a quick hike and panoramic views as it is a must-see activity in Hawaii.   This is beautiful and will probably take about 2 hours.

If you didn’t see enough of Waikiki on Day 1, you could take a cab or Uber there for more   sightseeing and souvenir shopping.

You could also explore Ala Moana Center for more shopping, eating, and beach time. It’s about 11 minutes away by car.

Since this is Day 10 of our Hawaii itinerary, we will say aloha to the beautiful Hawaiian Islands.  

FINAL THOUGHTS ON YOUR 10-DAY HAWAII TRIP

If you plan to stay longer, you can definitely take your time going through these activities and just wander around the towns and cities, checking out the small hidden charms that each has. If you can’t stay the full 10 days, then pick and choose your favorite activities, and remember: you can always come back again!

I hope this 10-day Hawaii itinerary makes your vacation an exciting and fun one, full of local flavor. Whether you are traveling alone, coming as part of a couple, or taking the family – the islands have something for everyone.

About the Author:

This post was written by Rebecca, who runs her own blog  The Journey at Home – where she writes about her life as a mother of 5 with everything that comes along with it. She lived in New York for a long time before she moved to Las Vegas.  She also works as a freelancer for Arzo Travels.

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• Enjoy a lesson in surfing or outrigger canoe wave-riding from Waikiki's famous “beach boys

The Best of Hawaii 2022

• Kauai and Maui. Stay in ocean-view rooms at some of Hawaii's finest oceanfront resorts; have a hands-on gourmet cooking experience at a renowned restaurant on Maui; experience one of the most poignant chapters of World War II history at the USS Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor; take a private catamaran sail at sunset on the Big Island; hear a 'talk-story' from a beach boy; take an outrigger ride along Waikiki Beach; attend a traditional luau on Maui; and enjoy a private evening highlighted by cocktails and dinner at Queen Emma Summer Palace in Honolulu.

Want a tailor-made trip instead?

The Best of Hawaii 2021

• Tauck’s classic four-island journey across Hawaii incorporates natural and historical sights
• Kauai and Maui. Stay in ocean-view rooms at some of Hawaii's finest oceanfront resorts; have a hands-on gourmet cooking experience at a renowned restaurant on Maui; experience one of the most poignant chapters of World War II history at the USS Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor; take a private catamaran sail at sunset on the Big Island; hear a 'talk-story' from a beach boy; take an outrigger ride along Waikiki Beach; attend a traditional luau on Maui; and enjoy a private evening highlighted by cocktails and dinner at Iolani Palace in Honolulu.

Hawaii Highlights Self-Drive Tour

• Explore Maui's white-sand beaches.
• Experience the heat of Kilauea Volcano.
• Snorkel with sea turtles, whales and dolphins.
• Between January and March you can also take a boat trip on the Pacific Ocean to see majestic humpback whales at sunrise.

9 Day Classic Hawaii

• Tour Pearl Harbor Visitor Center where you will gain insight into the infamous attack on December 7, 1941
• Reflect on the bravery and sacrifice of the service members at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Punchbowl Crater
• Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, home to Kilauea, the most active volcano in the world
• Visit Punalu'u Bake Shop and sample their world-famous sweet bread
• Tour a coffee farm and learn about cultivation of the world-renowned Kona Coffee and enjoy a tasting
• Visit breathtaking Iao Valley State Park with its Iao Needle, one of Maui's famous natural landmarks
• Experience a traditional Hawaiian Luau show, celebrating Polynesian culture

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Tropical Splendor: Exploring the Hawaiian Islands

• I’m comfortable with some walking throughout the day
• I expect to get on and off of a coach, and I’m ready to stroll through cities and to stand for a few hours when we’re learning in museums

• At the Maui Ocean Center, view one of the world's largest displays of live Pacific corals

12 Day Classic Hawaii with Kauai

• Take a movie tour of the island of Kauai and explore the island's famous movie locations
• Marvel at the Waimea Canyon, known as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific"
• Visit Koke'e State Park brimming with wildflowers and lush tropical forests

Best of the Hawaiian Islands

• Honolulu: Traditional lei greeting; guided sightseeing; visit Pearl Harbor and USS Arizona Memorial & Museum
• Kona: Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Jaggar Museum, Punalu’u Bake Shop, and Kona Coffee Living History Farm; luau and Polynesian show.
• Maui: Visit `Iao Valley, Lahaina; farewell dinner.
• Whether you’re looking to renew your spirit, explore historic sights, or experience breathtaking natural beauty, this Hawaii tour is sure to delight
• Feel the sand in your feet, smell the fresh fragrance of the island flowers, smile as the tranquil ocean waves hit your calves, savor the sumptuous cuisine, taste the aromatic coffee, and just relax as Globus shows you the best of the Hawaiian Islands—Oahu, the Big Island, and Maui

Two Islander

• Enjoy all the wonders of Oahu, Hyatt Regency Waikiki, fronting the ocean
• See the  Punchbowl National Cemetery, snorkel at Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor
• The ‘hottest show on the Island – the “Drums of the Pacific” Luau
• Visit the South Pacific villages, demonstrations, Polynesian crafts.
• The whaling era (1840 to 1865), Lahaina Town served as the anchorage for more than 500 ships!
• Enjoy Tradewind sailing with phenomenal views of West Maui, Molokai and Lanai.

Hawaii - Budget Island Endemics & Pelagic 2021

• Laysan Albatross
• Hawaiian Hawk
• Nene (Hawaiian Goose)
• Oahu Amakihi
• Kauai Amakihi
• Hawaii Amakihi
• Hawaii Creeper
• Akikiki (Kauai Creeper)
• Kauai Elepaio
• Puaiohi (Small Kauai Thrush)
• Omao (Hawaiian Thrush)
• Akekee (Kauai Akepa)
• Hawaiian Petrel
• White (Fairy) Tern
• Bristle-thighed Curlew

Hawaii - Island Endemics & Pelagic 2021

Best Of The Hawaiian Islands

• Save up to 32% off trips to every continent on earth
• Redeem anytime before 2023. Last minute changes OK.
• Get a full refund.

Cruising Hawaii's Paradise With Sheraton Princess Kaiulani

Cruising Hawaii's Paradise With Sheraton Waikiki

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The ultimate 10-day hawaii itinerary.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Best Places to Stay in Hawaii

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

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

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

The Best 10 Days in Hawaii Itinerary

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

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

Hawaii Travel Itinerary Day 1-3: Kauai

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More Kauai Tours to Book:

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

TRANSFER TO OAHU

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

Hawaii Travel Itinerary Day 3-5: Oahu

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TRANSFER TO MOLOKAI

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

Hawaii Travel Itinerary Day 5-6: Molokai

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

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

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

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

Hawaii Travel Itinerary Day 7-8: Maui

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More Maui Tours to Book:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

TRANSFER TO BIG ISLAND

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

Day 9-10: Hawaii (Big Island)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What to Pack For Your 10-Day Hawaii Itinerary

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

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

Best Time to Visit Hawaii

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

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

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

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

Travel Tips for Your 10-Day Hawaii Itinerary

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

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

Wrapping Up Your Perfect Hawaii 10-Day Itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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10-Day Hawaii Itinerary for an Epic Hawaii Vacation

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This article’s recommendations may include affiliate links.

We’ve mentioned it before and will say it again: if you’re visiting Hawaii and want to see more than one island, we definitely recommend planning a 10-day Hawaii itinerary, at the very least! Check out this detailed itinerary from a Hawaii local to get started planning.

If your vacation days are ready to go and you just need an epic itinerary for Hawaii laid out for you, you’ll be pleased to know this daily activity guide is local-approved and makes space to explore more than one island.

How to Spend 10 Days in Hawaii

(Daily Activity Itinerary for Kauai and Big Island)

One of the biggest mistakes tourists visiting Hawaii make is trying to visit too many islands in one trip— island hopping Hawaii requires planning and enough time.

For that reason, this 10-day Hawaii itinerary will help you explore the beautiful islands of Kauai and the Big Island. And while that is just two of the six islands open to visit in Hawaii, you will definitely have plenty to experience during the entirety of your island getaway.

• Day 1-5: Kauai (leave early on day 5)
• Day 5-10: Big Island

4-Day Kauai Itinerary

To kick off your Hawaii trip, we recommend you stay at least four full days in Kauai to enjoy all the outdoor activities this lush, green island has to offer. You’ll be flying into Lihue Airport (LIH) and there are plenty of nice places to stay in the area.

Where to stay in Kauai near the airport:

• The Kauai Inn $$
• Banyan Harbor Resort $$$
• Castle Kaha Lani Resort $$$
• Kauai Beach Resort and Spa $$$$
• Marriott Kauai Lagoons $$$$

Where to eat on Kauai:

Though Kauai is known for being the most green of all the Hawaiian islands (and having breathtaking outdoor activity options), there are also yummy food options there too! Check out this “Best of” guide from Hawaii Magazine for a list of Kauai’s best food and drink spots.

These are the 5 best farm-to-table restaurants on Kauai:

• Merriman’s Fish House
• Hukilau Lanai
• The Local Kauai

Day 1 (Kauai): Explore Poipu

After making the long flight to Lihue Airport on Kauai, you’ll want to take it relatively easy on your first day on the islands. You can make the short, 20-minute drive into the lovely town of Poipu and explore all of its gems.

Suggested activities for One day in Kauai:

• Soak up the sun at Poipu Beach (Nukomoi Point is best for snorkeling)
• Visit Allerton Garden
• Walk the Mahaulepu Coastal Trail
• Wander around The Shops at Kukuiula

Day 2 (Kauai): Visit the Waimea Canyon + Kokee State Park

If there’s one thing you need to see on Kauai, it’s Waimea Canyon . It is nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. While there, you can take in the views or go for a hike (try hiking to Waipo‘o Falls).

Your second stop of the day is the gorgeous Kokee State Park . This state park is home to stunning greenery-laden mountains, including Mount Waialeale and the tip of the Na Pali Coast.

Things to know before visiting Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Park:

E ntry to these attractions is $5 per person and parking fee per vehicle ($10) are required for non-residents visiting Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Parks

Last but not least, if you have time on your way back, I highly recommend making a stop in the tiny, yet charming town of Hanapepe. Did you know the movie “Lilo and Stitch” was inspired by this town?

Day 3 (Kauai): Head to the North Shore

Day 3 of this 10-day itinerary for Hawaii is all about the North Shore of Kauai . On the way there, you’ll be able to stop at a couple of Kauai’s most beautiful waterfalls, including Wailua Falls and Opaekaa Falls.

What to do in the North Shore of Kauai:

• swim through the underwater tunnels at Tunnels Beach (best snorkeling is in the center)
• explore the wet and dry caves
• say hello to the nene geese at the Kilauea Lighthouse and Wildlife Refuge
• try taro donuts from Holey Grail Donuts

Day 4 (Kauai): Take a Boat Tour of the Na Pali Coast

There are three ways to see the famous Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park: hiking on foot, from the air, or by boat.

Before you leave the beautiful island of Kauai, I recommend spending your last day taking a Na Pali Coast boat tour to see both the stunning green mountain range and the friendly animals in the sparkling blue Pacific Ocean.

Tour companies with legal access to bring you to the Na Pali Coast:

For na pali coast motorized inflatable raft tours (nu’alolo kai):.

• Captain Andy’s
• Kaua’i Sea Tours
• Na Pali Explorer

For Na Pali Coast Guided Kayak Tours (Miloli’i Beach): May – September

• Kayak Kauai
• Na Pali Kayak

Outfitters Kauai

6-Day Big Island Itinerary

There is so much to do in Big Island, even six days may not feel enough—but you can definitely start to explore some of the best of this destination! Big Island is a great vacation spot for outdoor adventure, and a must-visit if you want unique experiences like visiting Volcanoes National Park.

Where to stay in big island:

• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Kailua-Kona $$
• Banyan Tree Sanctuary Guest House $$
• Kona Coast Resort $$$
• Four Seasons Resort Hualalai $$$$$
• Aston Kona By The Sea $$$$

Where to eat in Big Island:

Check out this “Best of” guide from Hawaii Magazine for a list of Big Island’s best food and drink spots.

These are the 5 best farm-to-table restaurants on the Big Island:

• Merriman’s Big Island
• Foster’s Kitchen
• Holuakoa Gardens Restaurant and Café
• Moon and Turtle
• Hilo Bay Café

Day 5 (Big Island) : Soak Up the Sun in Kona

On day 5 of your 10-day itinerary for Hawaii, you’ll fly from Lihue, Kauai to Kona, Big Island. Once you land, you can head straight to the beach! A few of the best beaches in Kona include Kealakekua Bay, Hapuna Beach, and Kua Bay.

If you have a little bit of extra time, I recommend using it to see ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs. Glimpses of this historic pictorial language can be found at Waikoloa Petroglyph Preserve and Puako Petroglyph Park.

Day 6 (Big Island) : Visit Kona Coffee Farms and Learn Hawaiian History

If there’s one thing that Kona is known for, it’s coffee. And you can get as much Kona coffee as you’d like at one of the many Kona coffee farms, including Mountain Thunder Coffee, Hula Daddy Coffee, and Kona Coffee Living History Farm.

After you’ve gotten your caffeine boost, you can then learn a little bit about Hawaiian history. Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park and Puuhonua O Honaunau National Park are both great places to visit.

Day 7 (Big Island) : Climb to the Top of Mauna Kea

From sea level to the peak, Mauna Kea is the tallest mountain in the world, so it’s definitely worth a visit during your time on the Big Island. It’s the perfect place to catch the sunrise or do a little stargazing. In the winter, there’s even snow on the peak, so you can test your snowboarding and skiing skills as well!

Day 8 ( Big Island ): Go to the Southernmost Tip of the U.S.

The Big Island of Hawaii is home to the southernmost tip of the United States, also known as Ka Lae. While this landmark is a great place to visit, it’s the many stops around it that make it more interesting.

You can hike to Papakolea Green Sand Beach, grab some guava bread from Punaluu Bake Shop, and find a hidden sandy shoreline.

Day 9 (Big Island): Head to Hilo

While this itinerary focuses on the Kona side of the Big Island, you won’t want to miss out on the east side of the island, also known as the Hilo side. Hilo is home to loads of stunning waterfalls and beautiful black sand beaches. You can spend your time visiting Akaka Falls, Punaluu Black Sand Beach, Pohoiki Black Sand Beach, and Rainbow Falls.

And if you’re looking for a place to grab a bite to eat, I highly recommend heading to Moon & Turtle for a meal or Two Ladies Kitchen for a sweet snack.

Day 10 (Big Island): Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Hilo is also home to the exciting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. While there, there are loads of things for you to do.

You can hike the Kilauea Iki Trail, warm up by the steam vents, check out the ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs, and walk through the Thurston Lava Tube. If you’re lucky, you might even be able to catch a glimpse of the lava flowing!

FAQs About Your Itinerary for Hawaii

When is the best time to visit kauai and big island.

While Kauai and the Big Island are both beautiful throughout the year. I would recommend visiting in April or May, as these months have ideal weather and smaller crowds.

Is 10 days in Hawaii enough?

That depends on how many islands you want to visit! If you just want to visit one or two, 10 days will likely be enough. But if you want to visit three or more islands, you’ll need to extend your trip.

Which Hawaiian island is the best for first time visitors?

Out of the six islands open to the public, the best Hawaiian island depends on your interests: Oahu is the most easily accessible, Maui fits the “Hawaii is paradise” stereotype, Kauai is for hikers, and Big Island has the famous volcanoes. The smaller islands of Lanai and Molokai are perfect for going off the grid.

How many days in Hawaii is enough?

Again, that depends on how many islands you want to visit. I recommend alloting approximately 4-8 days per island.

What Are Your Favorite Stops on Your 10-day Hawaii Itinerary?

Since this 10-day Hawaii itinerary includes just two of the Hawaiian Islands, there is so much more that you can see.

You can watch professional surfers on the North Shore of Oahu, drive the winding road to Hana on Maui, and get off the grid on the little island of Lanai. But instead of stuffing all of that into one trip, save all of that for your next Hawaii getaway.

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Oahu itinerary: 7 days in paradise

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Oahu is the first stop for many visitors to Hawaii and it offers so many amazing things to do! It can be overwhelming figure out how to fit everything in. We’re taking out the guesswork by showing you the best Oahu itinerary for 7 days – you’ll explore stunning beaches, take in important historical sites, eat amazing food and get a taste of traditional Hawaiian culture.

We know that not everyone spends one week on Oahu, so we’ve structured our suggestions below to give you an Oahu itinerary for 3 days as well using the first half of the week itinerary – for practical reasons, this is basically a “Highlights of Honolulu” itinerary. If you’re debating how many days in Oahu, I certainly wouldn’t spend fewer than 3.

But stick with us! If you need an Oahu 4 day itinerary, you can just pick an additional day from the options based on your interests. If you’re staying on Oahu for four days or more, there are lots of awesome choices for activities and places to stay (besides Waikiki).

Quick Planning: What to book NOW for 7 days on Oahu

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

Must read tips for renting a car in Hawaii Compare prices between RentalCars.com , Discount Hawaii Car Rental and Priceline

Accomodations

• Waikiki – Hilton Hawaiian Village or Hyatt Regency Waikiki
• North Shore – Turtle Bay Resort
• Ko Olina – Marriott Ko Olina or Disney Aulani
• Windward Coast – Paradise Bay Resort
• Budget-friendly vacation rentals
• Family-friendly vacation rentals
• Polynesian Cultural Center
• Kayking to Mokolua islands
• Surfing lessons
• Day 4: Mauna Kea summit tour and manta ray night snorkeling
• Day 5: Luau
• Oahu Revealed The must-have guide book for every Big Island trip
• Oahu with Kids In-depth ideas for families – written by a parent, for parents

What to pack

Where to stay on oahu.

Your exact itinerary depends somewhat on where you stay on Oahu – if you’re staying more than a few days, use this guide to help you decide. Here are a few quick picks by area:

If you’d rather save money on your accommodations and groceries by staying at a vacation rental, check out these budget-friendly rentals on Oahu or these awesome family-friendly vacation rentals on Oahu .

Getting around Oahu

Renting a car on oahu.

It can be tough to decide whether or not to rent a car on Oahu. On the one hand, a car gives you the freedom to come and go and to explore the best Oahu scenic drives. It also allows you to use your time most efficiently since you won’t be waiting around for a bus or trolley or making stops you don’t need. If you stay outside of the big city, you need to rent a car. Check here for the best prices.

At the same time, rental cars on Oahu can be surprisingly expensive and many hotels in Waikiki charge huge parking fees – think $45 per night, even if you end up spending the day lounging on the beach and don’t drive anywhere.

One potential option if you’re staying in Honolulu/Waikiki is to rely on walking, Uber and public transportation for part of the time and just rent a car for one or two days if you want to go further afield. It’s definitely worth pricing out a few options and comparing different companies .

Read more: 10 tips for renting a car in Hawaii

Uber on Oahu

Uber is legal in Hawaii, though with increasing regulation over the last few years and more on the way. Even so, state law recently changed to allow Uber and Lyft to pick up at airports. Uber is an easy way to get around southern Oahu, from Pearl Harbor to Hanauma Bay.

But it isn’t cheap. A one-way ride from Waikiki to Pearl Harbor or Hanauma Bay will cost around $30. You also may not be able to get a return ride from further reaches of the island like the North Shore.

Realistically, you probably need to rent a car if you’re planning an Oahu 7 day itinerary or you’ll wind up feeling trapped.

Read more: How to travel with car seats (without losing your cool)

TheBus on Oahu

You may be surprised to know that Oahu has better public transportation than many parts of the mainland! TheBus runs all over the island for just $2.75 per ride. Kids 6-17 pay just $1.25, while younger ones ride free on a parent’s lap.

TheBus can get you just about anywhere you’d want to go… but maybe not as quickly as you’d like. The ride from Waikiki to Pearl Harbor by car should be around half an hour in the morning, but a full hour on TheBus. Taking TheBus to Haleiwa requires around two hours – double what it would take you in a car.

Read more: How to visit Hawaii without going broke

Waikiki Trolley

An interesting option for visitors staying in Waikiki is the Waikiki Trolley , a hop-on-hop-off bus that hits all the Honolulu tourist hot spots. Unlike TheBus, there are very few stops on many of the lines. They’re even themed based on tourist interests: Pearl Harbor, Shopping, Dining and a super-fast Diamond Head Express!

The biggest downside of the Waikiki Trolley is the cost: a one-day pass will cost you $45 (but as of this writing includes the next day as a bonus), a four-day pass to use during a week is just over $60 online and a seven-day pass to use over ten days is around $70. Get the details here.

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

Activity shuttles

Since Oahu tourism operators know that many visitors prefer not to rent a car, they often offer transportation. Sometimes it’s included in the price of an activity, other times it’s an extra $10-15 per person. Many activities on the North Shore and Windward Coast offer pickup at Waikiki hotels. You’ll need to calculate how those costs add up compared with the cost of a rental car.

You can also book a Diamond Head tour or a Hanauma Bay tour if those sites are high on your priority list but you’re concerned about transportation.

Read more: What to pack for Hawaii

No matter how long you plan to stay on Oahu, three of your days on the island should look about the same. Start with this core of activities as you plan your Oahu itinerary.

An abbreviated Oahu itinerary for 3 days

If you’re planning to spend 3 days in Oahu, you’ll be able to see some of the island’s most famous highlights. Honolulu (and it’s famous touristy southern neighborhood, Waikiki) may not be the most charming part of the island, but for a quick visit it’s the most sensible home base.

Evening activities in Waikiki

Waikiki offers a few free noteworthy evening activities, but they depend on the day of the week.

On Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday you can watch a free hula show in Waikiki near the statue of Duke Kahanamoku at the Kuhio Beach hula stage. There were very skilled adult women performing and the kids also got a kick out of seeing girls their own ages up on stage! The evening kicks off with a torch lighting ceremony at 6:30pm (February – October) or 6pm (November – January). Arrive a little early to snag a good seat, and bring a blanket or travel towel to sit on.

On Fridays at 7:45 the Hilton Hawaiian Village has a lovely fireworks show that lasts about ten minutes. Even if you aren’t staying at the resort, you can get a great view of the fireworks along the coast while you dig your toes into the sand.

Read more: 10 Fun Things to do on Oahu for $10 or less

Essential Honolulu itinerary for first-time visitors

Day 1: Recover and relax

If you’re visiting Oahu from anywhere outside of Hawaii, you almost certainly have a big time zone change to contend with! Lucky for you, one of the best things to do on Oahu is spend a lazy day on some of the island’s gorgeous beaches. The fresh air and sunshine will help your body adjust to the new version of “day”. The only thing you need to plan is which beach you’ll visit – check out this roundup to find your perfect spot.

Day 2: Get a taste of the city

You may be on a tropical island, but Oahu offers so much more than beaches and palm trees. The island has fascinating history and culture that would be a shame to miss. So hang your swimsuit up to dry and head into the city for your second full day. Since you still won’t be fully adjusted to the Hawaiian time zone, take advantage of your early wake-up to pack in some of Oahu’s most important sites.

Start your day with a sobering trip to the Pearl Harbor historic sites to pay homage to those who died during the attack that catapulted the United States into World War II. You can visit the Pearl Harbor Visitors Center, USS Arizona Memorial (currently closed for repair until approximately Fall 2019), USS Bowfin submarine, USS Missouri battleship and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum. The Visitors Center opens at 7am, with the first movie showing at 7:30am; other sites in the complex open at 7 or 8am. You can spend as little as two hours at the site or as long as several days depending on your interests!

Just a short drive from Pearl Harbor is a true gem: the Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, a place to celebrate and explore the history, culture and environment of Hawaii and its Pacific Island neighbors. This museum is so good that we visited twice when we went to Oahu, and nearly went a third time! It’s perhaps the most unique museum in Honolulu.

Some of the best exhibits are a planetarium show that teaches you how to be a wayfinder like the ancient Polynesians who first sailed to Hawaii, a showcase of the linguistic and cultural similarities of the islands that make up the “blue continent”, a simulated volcano where you go see real lava up close and personal, a garden full of endemic and culturally significant plants and so much more. To say that we loved the Bishop Museum is an understatement. If you are a member of an ASTC museum back home you can get in for free. Otherwise you can get discounted admission through the Entertainment Book or the Go Oahu card.

The final stop on your Honolulu tour is Iolani Palace. It’s America’s only royal palace, though sadly it was only in use as such for about a decade in the late 1800s. The audioguide tour teaches visitors about the struggle for Hawaii’s royalty (the ali’i ) to balance a desire for modernity with maintaining autonomy. We found the building beautiful and the story engaging. The tour provides important context for understanding the divided views among native Hawaiians today. You can visit Iolani Palace every day except Sunday, from 9am to 4pm.

Want to save money on these activities and more? See whether the Go Oahu card is the right choice for you.

The best way to end your day is with a gorgeous Hawaiian sunset. There are so many great places to see the sunset on Oahu, all along the island’s west coast. Since you’ve adjusted a little bit to the Hawaiian time zone, take the opportunity to check out one of the free evening activities mentioned above.

Day 3: Explore Oahu’s natural beauty

Even though Honolulu is a huge city, it’s also close to two of Oahu’s most famous places: Diamond Head and Hanauma Bay. Yes, the island offers other great easy hikes and other snorkeling options; but if you’re short on time, it’s hard to beat the convenience of these two!

Start your morning off with a refreshing walk up to the top of Diamond Head. Just grab a taxi or TheBus from your hotel: admission is $5 per car or $1 per person if you’re on foot. You can find more insight into the Diamond Head hike here, but in summary it’s a very manageable walk. The elevation gain is 500 ft and distance is 1.5 miles each way. However, the trail can be a little uneven so you need to wear either sneakers or hiking sandals, but boots or trail runners aren’t necessary.

You’ll appreciate the early start since much of the trail is unshaded. Even so, make sure to wear plenty of sunscreen ! Also be sure to have plenty of water on-hand, which we always find easiest with our Camelbaks . Don’t forget your camera for that classic Diamond Head view.

Read more: Check out these other great easy hikes on Oahu

Once you get back down to the parking area you can either pick up your rental car or grab one of the many waiting taxis and have them bring you straight to Hanauma Bay. The drive takes just over 20 minutes by car or about 45 minutes by bus.

This is one of the best snorkeling spots on Oahu, though admittedly it’s also one of the most crowded. You’ll pay $7.50 per adult to enter and $1 to park. Before entering the water, you need to watch a brief safety video – if you plan to return, register at the front of the movie so that you can skip it next time. Don’t have your own snorkel gear ? No problem, you can rent it when you get down to the beach. You can expect to see all different types of fish and a wide variety of coral. The water is generally pretty shallow, so there’s no need for much swimming (or fins). For some of the best snorkeling at Hanauma Bay, head all the way to the left when you arrive at the beach and explore along the natural rock wall. If you’re worried about transportation or don’t want to deal with the logistics of renting snorkel gear, a guided tour of Hanauma Bay will help you enjoy a low-stress afternoon in the water.

What to bring to Hanauma Bay: -reef-safe sunscreen – this is our new favorite! – waterproof camera (we tried these and they didn’t work well underwater) – snorkel gear (read our complete guide to kids snorkel gear if you have young ones with you) – don’t forget the defogger – wet bag or waterproof beach bag for your swimsuit -our favorite fish chart

Scheduling note: Hanauma Bay is closed every Tuesday to give the reef and its inhabitants a break. Feel free to swap day 2 and day 3 if need be!

If you’re saying goodbye after just those 3 days in Oahu, we wish you much aloha on your journey! Sticking around longer? Here’s the rest of your Oahu itinerary for 7 days (give or take a few).

Oahu itinerary for 7 days

If you’re staying on Oahu for more than just a few days, you might consider staying somewhere outside of Waikiki/Honolulu . It’ll be quieter and give you more of a feeling that you’re on a remote tropical island – which you are!

Day 4: The North Shore

One of the coolest parts of Oahu is the North Shore, and it’s worth spending a day exploring the area. There’s enough to do that if you love it you can definitely spend several days on the North Shore.

Read more: North Shore, Oahu: Finding Magic on Hawaii’s Busiest Island

We recommend starting your day on the North Shore with a visit to Waimea Valley . You’ll find the island’s most beautiful botanical gardens and several miles of walking trails leading to a (sometimes raging, sometimes swimmable) waterfall. Along the way you’ll have the opportunity to see traditional Hawaiian homes, play Hawaiian games and even meet local craftspeople selling their wares. Just remember that you’re in the jungle and apply bug spray liberally! Grab your tickets in advance to ensure your spot.

When you finish at Waimea Valley head across the street to Waimea Bay, home to the famed “jump rock”. I won’t tell you whether or not to jump – that’s your call! But you’ll find calm waters in the summer, boogie boarding waves in the shoulder seasons and some good surf in the winter when swells come to the North Shore.

If you’re a snorkeler, head north to Shark’s Cove (Pupukea) to explore the sea life in the rock pool. This isn’t nearly as developed a site as Hanauma Bay, so you’ll probably want to bring your own snorkel gear or buy a cheap set at Foodland. It’s also advisable to wear either fins or water shoes to protect your feet.

More interested in surfing (or at least the surfers)? You’ll find them a bit further north at Sunset Beach. This isn’t the best beach for little kids due to the steep drop off almost as soon as you enter the water, but in the shoulder seasons it can be good for boogie boarding. Even in October and November we spotted some surfers offshore just a little to the north. Once you get deeper into the winter swells, this is a great place to watch surfers on Oahu!

If you have some time in the evening, head to funky little Haleiwa town to soak up the quintessential Hawaii surfer vibe. While you’re there, grab some shave ice at Matsumoto or Aoki’s and then catch the lingering sunset.

Read more: Where to find the best shave ice on Oahu

A different evening option if you won’t be heading to the Polynesian Cultural Center (more on that below) is to attend the acclaimed Toa Luau at Waimea Valley . We’ve heard that it’s the best luau on Oahu! The festivities begin at 5pm with cultural activities and continue with dinner and a show long into the evening. The price of the luau ticket includes your admission to Waimea Valley, whether you choose to visit the valley first thing in the morning or shuffle the day around to arrive around 3pm to explore the gardens and waterfall before the luau begins. You’ll find more information here .

Day 5: Beach day!

After spending the last few days hustling around to explore the best of Oahu, it’s time to give yourself a break! Check out a new beach and bring a good book. This is an especially good time to check out the Windward Coast of Oahu, which offers spots like the soft white sands and crystal-clear snorkeling of Lanikai Beach and the perfect-for-boogie-boarding waves of Kailua Beach next door. Get more Oahu beach inspiration here.

If you do head to the Windward Coast, you have two great options for dinner: -For cheap and casual food, head to The Hibachi in nearby Kaneohe for pupus and a huge range of incredibly fresh, delicious poke . -For a nicer sit-down meal in a beautiful setting, go to Haleiwa Joe’s. The Kaneohe location backs onto the lush Ko’olau Range with a lovely garden below. It’s best before dark, so go on the early side to put your name down (the wait can easily be an hour!) and then stroll in the garden while you wait.

If you’re visiting with kids, this is a great day to schedule a Character Breakfast at Disney’s Aulani in Ko Olina and then spend the day at the tranquil lagoons nearby. It’s also worth hopping to nearby Paradise Cove to see if you can spot sea turtles lounging on the beach – it’s reported that you’ll have the best luck around mid-day.

Read more: Don’t miss these 10 things to do on Oahu with kids

Day 6: Try a new adventure

What’s a trip to Hawaii without a little adventure? Oahu’s got it all!

One of our favorite things to do on Oahu is kayaking in Kaneohe Bay on the Windward Coast. The water is fairly calm and you go visit some wonderful offshore spots like the Mokolua Islands or the sandbar. Bring your snorkel gear to dive in and explore the diverse sea life. If you’re really lucky (like we were) you’ll even get to swim with wild sea turtles on Oahu! Check out these two great options: – Beginner and family-friendly kayak/snorkel trip in Kaneohe Bay – book here – Adventurous kayaking and snorkeling to the Mokes – book here

Of course, Hawaii is the home of surfing. If you’ve never tried it before, there’s no time like the present. Waikiki is one of the best places to learn to surf thanks to the wide range of waves available. You’ll learn to surf fastest in a private lesson , but if you want to save a little money you can arrange a small group class too. There are even special lessons for kids !

Really want to get your adrenaline pumping? Try out parasailing on Oahu ! You can effortlessly glide hundreds of feet over the breathtaking scenery of Koko Head and the Ko’olau Range before landing gently on the nearby beach.

A new option on Oahu is ziplining on the North Shore! You’ll traverse eight ziplines as you enjoy views of the mountains, the ocean and a working farm in between. Get all the details here.

Day 7: Polynesian Cultural Center

You can’t leave Hawaii without getting a taste of native Hawaiian and Polynesian culture. There’s no better place to do it than at the Polynesian Cultural Center in Laie, on the east side of the North Shore. In case you don’t have a rental car, they offer paid transportation. You can even combine your PCC visit with an Oahu “circle island tour”.

The PCC offers thematic villages for each Polynesian nation where visitors can watch performances, participate in crafts and even try foods representative of the homelands of the staff. There is representation for Tonga, Fiji, Tahiti, Samoa, Aeotearoa (New Zealand) and of course Hawaii. There are other fun activities like the stunning pageant of canoes, ukulele lessons and a double-hulled sailing ship. Read our full review for more information and tips for visiting the Polynesian Cultural Center, or check out their stunning intro video .

Once the villages shut down in the evening, visitors can attend a luau (which has a big crowd) or opt for an entertainment-free dinner (there are several buffet options as well as sit-down dining and food trucks in the adjacent Hukilau Marketplace).

The real entertainment begins at 7:30 with the Ha: Breath of Life show in the theater. Unlike a luau that’s performed by a few people at a time on a small stage, this theatrical-quality show has over 100 performers – all Polynesian – intermixing traditional storytelling with captivating performances. There’s a good reason Hawaii Magazine has named it the state’s best live show and it won the Tripadvisor Traveler’s Choice Top 10 award for the US! You can see a preview of the show and reserve your tickets here .

Why should you visit the Polynesian Cultural Center on your last day? Because it’s a long day and the evening show doesn’t end until 9pm – the equivalent of 2 or 3am for east coasters. You’ll enjoy the experience more once you’ve adapted to aloha time!

Read more: Get our insider tips on visiting the Polynesian Cultural Center

Other amazing things to do on Oahu

The reality is that every traveler’s visit to Oahu will be a different experience. It all depends on your interests, your budget and even where you stay. Hopefully the Oahu itinerary suggestions above will serve as a starting point for your own travel plans for what to do in Oahu for a week. If some of our ideas don’t strike your fancy, there are plenty of other choices around!

-Spend more time at the beach. Visiting Oahu’s amazing beaches is never a bad choice! During our five weeks on the island we went to the beach roughly four times per week, with a mix of lounging, playing in the waves, snorkeling and boogie boarding. If you’re visiting Hawaii because you just need an escape, don’t feel bad cutting back on other activities in favor of r&r. It’s your vacation!

-Go sophisticated. One of the most interesting things to do in Honolulu (which we unfortunately didn’t get to) is a tour of Shangri La, actress Doris Duke’s Islamic-style mansion. It’s a division of the Honolulu Museum of Art, which has a diverse general collection and is particularly noted for Asian art.

A great free museum in Honolulu is HiSAM, the Hawaii State Art Museum. Unlike the HMA above, HiSAM focuses on art created by Hawaiians or inspired by the islands. HiSam also hosts Friday evening and Saturday afternoon events for the public once per month.

-Take a day trip to another island. Yes, it sounds a little crazy. But if you have enough time on Oahu you can island hop and still be back by dinner. No worries about checking into a new hotel and finding your way around a new place just for a short visit! Check out these options for a day trip to Kauai from Oahu , an Oahu to Maui day trip and even a Big Island day trip from Oahu (this last one is a little crazy given the flight time and the sheer size of the Big Island, but it’s a good choice if you really want to see BI and can’t count on making it back to Hawaii!). If you’re feeling more intrepid, you can book inexpensive island-hopper flights yourself and then grab a rental car for the day .

Oahu itinerary FAQs

While you can scrape the surface of Oahu in 3 days, spending a week in Oahu is a much better choice to go beyond the all but the biggest tourist sites.

Not at all! We spent five weeks on Oahu and still didn’t visit everything. Unlike the other Hawaiian islands, Oahu has a large local population so there are plenty of activities and cultural institutions to choose from and mix into your beach days and adventure activities.

I’m partial to the quieter areas outside of Waikiki, though Waikiki is the best area to stay in Oahu if you don’t want to rent a car. This in-depth guide will help you choose the best place to stay on Oahu for your trip.

Oahu is fun any time of year, but the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) are less crowded and cheaper than school break times.

I recommend skipping the big Honolulu hotels entirely unless you absolutely can’t rent a car. There are better places to stay on Oahu .

More resources to plan your trip to Hawaii

See all of our Hawaii travel planning resources in one place Travel planning resources: Compare rental car prices for Hawaii Buy a top-rated travel insurance policy 5 simple money-saving tips for booking.com General Hawaii resources: How to visit Hawaii on a budget Renting a car in Hawaii: 10 things you NEED to know What to pack for Hawaii Is a cheap GoPro knock-off worth it? Hawaii with kids: What’s the best Hawaiian island for families? Is it worth visiting Hawaii with a baby? Ultimate packing list for Hawaii with kids Top 10 things to do with kids on Oahu The best snorkel gear for kids of all ages Oahu resources: Best Oahu travel guide book Perfect 7 day Oahu itinerary Where to stay on Oahu Family-friendly Oahu vacation rentals Cheap Places To Stay On Oahu 10 Fun Things to do on Oahu for $10 or less Getting the most bang for your buck on your Go Oahu discount card Insider tips for visiting the Polynesian Cultural Center The best beaches on Oahu (and why to visit them) Where to find the best shave ice on Oahu The best easy hikes on Oahu North Shore Oahu complete visitors guide Kayaking to the Mokes with Twogood Kayaks Family-friendly kayaking with Holokai Adventures Visiting Pearl Harbor Maui resources: Best Maui travel guide book Perfect 3 day Maui itinerary Cheap Places To Stay On Maui Big Island resources: Best Big Island travel guide book Perfect 5 day Big Island itinerary Cheap Places To Stay On the Big Island Kauai resources: Best Kauai travel guide book Perfect 3 day Kauai itinerary Cheap Places To Stay On Kauai

Oahu guidebooks

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4 thoughts on “oahu itinerary: 7 days in paradise”.

Very nice site and information. Beginning to travel with my granddaughter and ll this info is usable to me. Thanks

So glad you found it helpful! How old is your granddaughter?

I wanted to go too Hawaii before but now I absolutely must visit Hawaii. I really want more than anything to see the local Hawaiian and Polynesian dances. I just wish flights from the UK were not so expensive. Will try and get a RTW flights! Hawaii here I come! 🙂

I know it’s completely on the opposite side of the world, but hopefully you’ll make it one day!

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Nord America , Oceano Pacifico

Grand hawaii tour.

Home » Viaggi » Grand Hawaii Tour

Il Grand Hawaii Tour è il modo perfetto per esplorare in libertà e serenità il più grande arcipelago di isole tropicali del Pacifico.

L’itinerario abbraccia tutte le 4 isole maggiori:

Isola di Hawaii ( Big Island ), nota per i suoi vulcani attivi che ne hanno modellato la forma e natura; Maui, famosa, oltre che per le sue spiagge e le altissime onde care a surfisti di tutto il mondo anche per la panoramica Hana. Highway che costeggia il litorale nord a picco sul mare; Oahu , l’isola che ospita la capitale Honolulu , è la mecca per il divertimento, con il suo spot più celebre: la spiaggia di Waikiki . Strepitosa è anche Lanikai Beach , “il mare del paradiso”, una lunga striscia di sabbia dorata incorniciata dalle palme.

Ultima tappa è Kauai , l’isola-giardino, dove ammirare lo spettacolare Waimea Canyon , da tutti soprannominato “il Grand Canyon del Pacifico”, la spettacolare costa Nord, l’ancora selvaggia Na Pali Coast , e Poipu Beach , definita da molti come una delle migliori spiagge d’America.

DETTAGLI PROGRAMMA

HOTEL: WAIKOLOA – OUTRIGGER FAIRWAY VILLAS

Durata: 3 notti Camera Standard (solo pernottamento)

HOTEL : HILO – LOKAHI LODGE

Durata: 1 notte Camera Standard (solo pernottamento)

HOTEL: OUTRIGGER ROYAL KAHANA RESORT

Durata: 5 notti Camera Standard (solo pernottamento)

HOTEL: AQUA ALOHA SURF AND SPA

Durata:  5 notti Camera Standard (solo pernottamento)

HOTEL: OUTRIGGER KIAHUNA PLANTATION

Durata:  4 notti Camera Standard (solo pernottamento)

A partire da 3.900 € a persona

Prezzo indicativo legato alla stagionalità. Soggetto a riconferma in fase di preventivazione. 

• 19 Giorni /
• Categorie: Natura , On The Road , Soggiorni mare

✓ Tutti i servizi indicati nel programma

✓ Noleggio auto di categoria Compact con navigatore satellitare

✓ Voli intercontinentali e domestici

✓ Assistenza Alidays 24h24 e 7 giorni 7

x Tasse aeroportuali

x Pasti e bevande non indicate

x Spese di gestione pratica comprensive di assicurazione medico bagaglio

x Tutto quanto non espressamente indicato

Il nostro esperto

Sara Quagliaroli

Condividi tramite:, scopri altri viaggi.

Viaggio a Tokyo, Seoul e Hawaii: City ‘n Surf

Pacific Coast: California e Hawaii

Hawaii Active

Scegli come vuoi contattarci

Deals of the Week   Green Hikes & Treks   Up to 50% OFF

Hawaii Tours & Trips 2024/2025

Crystal clear swells create idyllic  surfing  spots, helicopter rides offer sky-high views of active volcanoes, and crisp-green jungles contrast with some of the best  beaches  in the world. It's not hard to see why these islands are deservedly named the Paradise of the Pacific. Whether you relax in a 5-star resort in  Honolulu  or head underwater in search of marine life in Maui, there's no shortage of amazing adventures in Hawaii.

51 Hawaii tour packages with 895 reviews

Hawaiian Explorer (8 Days, Intra Tour Air Hilo To Kahului)

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Hawaiian Discovery (11 Days, Intra Tour Air Hilo To Kahului)

Hawaii with Oahu & Maui (Classic, With The Big Island, 10 Days, Intra Tour Air Honolulu To Kahului)

• Christmas & New Year

Hawai'i Big Island: Environmental Conservation, Cultural Preservation, and Snorkeling

I went on the Hawaii GIVE volunteer trip and it was AMAZING. The guides are awesome and truly make your time there more memorable and fun. I met super nice people who I will stay in touch with. The experience is what makes traveling with GIVE the most enjoyable and rewarding. There is so much that I would love to talk about this trip but in summary I would recommend anyone to go, it really is rewarding and life-altering as they immerse you deep into the Hawaiian culture.

• Island Hopping
• Coach / Bus

Hawaiian Islands

This tour gave us lots of free time to explore and relax. Organization of travel was good and hotels used were nice and in good locations. It would have been nice to have a couple meals as a group included.

Grand Hawaii Vacation

Enjoyed the entire experience. Knowledgeable people, learning history, downtime, good food, excellent whale watching!

Hawaii – Kauai & Maui Islands Adventure

Best of the Hawaiian Islands

A fantastic tour! Our guide, Pat, was great. Really went out of her way to get us all the excursions we wanted. Our favorite part was the whale watching. I highly recommend doing this tour in the winter months when the humpbacks are there breeding.

USA – Hawaii Big Island Volcanoes & Beaches

Hawaiian Adventure

• In-depth Cultural

Honolulu Hawaii Experience 7D/6N

The trip was as I expected, but communication between Bamba Experience and the local tour group could be improved.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Honolulu Hawaii Experience 4D/3N

Bamba Travel was the only tour operator which responded and agreed to help me plan my tour in Hawaii. Although I would have liked a more thoroughly organised tour like pick up from the cruise terminal and transport to the Kualoa ranch organised, I had to take the public bus by myself. It was a bit daunting but Bamba gave me some instructions. At Hawaii it quite easy and safe to take public transport during the day. Bamba was helpful at every step. A bit slow with regards to correspondence bec of time differences as they are in the USA but they would respond daily. Thank you Bamba for helping me organise a tailored plan to meet most of my needs. I had a great time in Hawaii.

Hawaii with Oahu & Maui (Small Groups, With The Big Island, 10 Days, Intra Tour Air Honolulu To Kahului)

• Hiking & Trekking

On the Dream Islands in the Pacific

Hawaiian Vacation Escape

Hawaii is amazing. There is so much to see and so many islands it is worth it to go on an organized trip. Plus, doing a tour helps save on the cost.

What people love about Hawaii Tours

The tour had a few bumps. It would have been better if there were some included meals. There was no information about some of the excursions such as where the island tour stopped.

This was an amazing trip. Everything was so well organized and it was wonderful having everything planned. We were able to see all of the things we wanted to see but had plenty of time for relaxing. I recommend this tour if you want to experience all the variety of experiences Hawaii has to offer.

Hawaii Tours starting in:

• Honolulu (23)
• Kailua Kona (5)
• Explorer (42)
• Fully Guided (40)
• Family (35)
• Active (13)
• Personalized (13)
• In-depth Cultural (11)
• Self-Guided (8)
• Private (7)
• Small Group (5)
• 7 Day Tours (7)
• 10 Day Tours (13)
• 2 Week Tours (12)
• Spring 2024 (21)
• Summer 2024 (24)
• Fall / Autumn 2024 (25)
• Winter 2024 / 2025 (22)
• Spring 2025 (15)
• Summer 2025 (12)
• Fall / Autumn 2025 (13)
• Winter 2025 / 2026 (11)
• April 2024 (17)
• May 2024 (17)
• June 2024 (21)
• July 2024 (22)
• August 2024 (19)
• September 2024 (24)
• October 2024 (21)
• November 2024 (22)
• December 2024 (17)
• January 2025 (15)
• February 2025 (15)
• March 2025 (14)
• April 2025 (14)
• May 2025 (12)
• June 2025 (12)
• July 2025 (12)
• August 2025 (12)
• September 2025 (13)
• October 2025 (12)
• November 2025 (12)

Other Regions in USA

• Western USA (771)
• Sun Belt (445)
• Southwest USA (433)
• Rocky Mountains (280)
• Eastern USA (229)
• Four Corners (228)
• East Coast USA (185)
• West Coast USA (175)
• California (156)
• Alaska (124)
• Northeast USA (117)
• Pacific Coast USA (108)
• Southern USA (102)
• Southeast USA (90)
• Grand Canyon (86)
• Northern California (80)

Travel Styles

• Singles and Solo (31)
• For Couples (27)
• Seniors (24)

International Versions

• Deutsch: Hawaii Rundreisen
• Français: Circuits en Hawaï
• Español: Circuitos por Hawai
• Nederlands: Hawaii Rondreizen

E’ online il nuovo catalogo sulla Polinesia

• Club Paradiso Tour Operator

Tour delle Hawaii

I Tour delle Hawaii ti portano alla scoperta di atolli deserti ed incontaminati, spiagge di sabbia bianca finisssima, coloreatissime barriere coralline e antichi popoli con suggestive culture tutte da scoprire. Itinerari unici e strutture moderne renderanno memorabile la vostra vacanza alle Hawaii, ricca di avventure e momenti di relax, realizzando i desideri di ogni viaggiatore che vuole vivere un luogo a trecentosessanta gradi.

Tour Hawaii Essential Aloha

7 giorni / 6 notti.

Honolulu & Maui per chi vuole vivere le Hawaii in piena regola partendo dal benvenuto floreale

Tour Hawaii Aloha Adventure

Honolulu & Big island con assistenza locale

Tour Hawaii Aloha Enchantement

Un Tour alla scoperta della ricchezza naturale delle Hawaii.

Tour Panorama Hawaiiano

12 giorni / 10 notti.

Un tour alla scoperta di luoghi meravigliosi come il famoso cratere Diamond Head, la bella Waikiki e i paradisi balneari delle Hawaii.

• Cultura hawaiana
• Informazioni pratiche per un viaggio alle Hawaii
• Top ten Hawaii: scopriamo le 10 migliori cose
• Trasporti Hawaii: come arrivare e come muoversi

Documenti necessari per andare alle Hawaii

Fuso orario hawaii – italia e ora legale, quanto costa un viaggio alle hawaii, dove andare alle hawaii, dove si trovano le hawaii, quando andare alle hawaii, perché andare alle hawaii: 10 buoni motivi, perché noleggiare l’auto per visitare le hawaii, voli per le hawaii: come arrivare, aeroporti delle hawaii, le 5 cascate migliori, i 10 migliori posti dove ammirare l’alba, le 10 spiagge migliori, i migliori tramonti, feste ed eventi alle hawaii, piatti tipici delle hawaii, il luau hawaiiano.

Le Hawaii sono una meta meravigliosa e lontana: questo è indiscutibile!

La bellezza del luogo e la sua distanza dall’Italia (quasi 13.000 chilometri in linea d’aria), spiegano perché una vacanza  verso l’arcipelago da sogno debba durare  come minimo 10 giorni .

Sarebbe davvero un peccato programmare una vacanza più breve: alle Hawaii c’è tanto da vedere , per raggiungerle e poi fare ritorno a casa servono circa due giorni pieni di viaggio, quindi il soggiorno “effettivo” non dovrebbe durare meno di otto giorni.

Bisogna considerare poi che il prezzo dei voli a/r, se pur variabile come di seguito vedremo, ammonta mediamente a €1.000 a persona . Spendere cifre consistenti per arrivare alle Hawaii e poi accontentarsi di una toccata e fuga vi farebbe tornare a casa carichi di rimpianti.

• 1.1 Principali aeroporti
• 1.2 Dall’Italia alle Hawaii in aereo: i percorsi possibili
• 2 Quanto costa alloggiare in hotel o nelle strutture alternative
• 3 Come spostarsi all’interno delle isole
• 4 Come trasferirsi da isola a isola
• 5 Mangiare alle Hawaii è costoso?
• 6 Le attrazioni
• 7 L’Assicurazione sanitaria
• 8 In autonomia o con un viaggio all inclusive?
• 9 Le mete alternative: Miami, Los Angeles, le Bahamas e la Polinesia
• 10.1 Fare una prenotazione unica
• 10.2 Cercate voli da Los Angeles
• 10.3 Hotel in anticipo e con parcheggio gratuito
• 10.4 Aeroporti con autonoleggio

I voli per le Hawaii: tratte e prezzi

Per raggiungere le Hawaii non sono disponibili voli diretti dall’Italia , quindi dovrete necessariamente effettuare degli scali : uno solo, oppure due, sia all’andata che al ritorno. Tendenzialmente, come sempre avviene, con il doppio scalo potrete risparmiare un po’.

Vi sconsigliamo di scegliere un numero di scali superiore a due, perché in questo caso il viaggio risulterebbe davvero interminabile. Ricordate che la vacanza dovrebbe essere il più possibile un piacere, anche nella fase dei trasferimenti, e non diventare una penitenza!

I prezzi dei voli per le Hawaii sono variabili non soltanto in base al numero di scali , ma anche al periodo dell’anno in cui si viaggia: sono mediamente più alti durante i mesi di alta stagione in termini di afflusso turistico, cioè da dicembre a febbraio e da metà giugno a fine agosto.

Con un vero colpo di fortuna si possono trovare voli da Roma o Milano alla Hawaii a partire da €800 (prezzo andata e ritorno per un adulto); i prezzi vanno poi a salire, per arrivare a €1600 e più . Possiamo dire che trovare un biglietto a/r a €1000 è già un buon risultato.

Principali aeroporti

– a Honolulu , sull’isola di Oahu, si trova l’aeroporto più utilizzato delle Hawaii, il Daniel K. Inouye International Airport

– a Kahului , sull’isola di Maui, l’omonimo aeroporto Kahului Airport è il secondo più trafficato dello Stato

– sull’isola di Hawai, chiamata anche The Big Island , a est c’è l’aeroporto di Hilo , Hilo International Airport, e a ovest quello di Kailua , Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole

– a Lihue , sull’isola di Kauai, il Lihue Airport

– nell’area di Hoolehua , sull’isola di Molokai, si trova il Molokai Airport, conosciuto anche come Hoolehua Airport. A differenza dei precedenti aeroporti non effettua voli internazionali, ma è collegato esclusivamente con altre isole hawaiane.

Abbiamo deciso di citarlo comunque, perché tramite questo aeroporto potrete raggiungere la piccola isola di Molokai, che incarna il vero spirito delle Hawaii. In alternativa, l’isola può essere raggiunta in traghetto da Maui.

Dall’Italia alle Hawaii in aereo: i percorsi possibili

Le proposte con uno scalo prevedono solitamente un volo intercontinentale che, da Roma o da Milano, vi porterà ad Ovest , nella West Coast degli USA (a Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle), oppure in Canada (a Vancouver o Toronto).

Da lì si ripartirà verso le Hawaii , nella maggior parte dei casi con destinazione Honolulu .

C’è anche l’alternativa di viaggio spostandosi verso est , ideale per chi intendesse abbinare al viaggio alle Hawaii una sosta in Oriente.

In questo caso c’è l’imbarazzo della scelta: il primo volo potrà atterrare in destinazioni come Tokyo, Seoul, Manila, Hong Kong, Pechino, Taipei, dalle quali si ripartirà per raggiungere le Hawaii, atterrando a Honolulu, oppure in altre isole.

Percorsi con due scali : sempre con partenza dall’Italia (in questo caso non soltanto da Roma e Milano ma anche da altri aeroporti, per esempio Bologna e Napoli), il primo scalo si effettuerà in una destinazione europea , per esempio Francoforte, Londra, Parigi, Madrid; seguirà il secondo scalo nella West Coast degli USA oppure in Canada, per poi concludere con il terzo volo fino alle Hawaii.

Un’ alternativa è quella del doppio scalo in America : volando dall’Italia si arriverà alla East Coast (New York, Chicago), poi con un volo interno si raggiungerà la West Coast, e infine si volerà verso le Hawaii .

Quanto costa alloggiare in hotel o nelle strutture alternative

Alle Hawaii non mancano certo hotel e sistemazioni di vario tipo pronte ad accogliere turisti entusiasti: hotel, B&B, ostelli, affittacamere e, non ultimi (anzi!) i famosi condo .

Dato che i prezzi possono essere molto alti , specialmente nei periodi di maggior afflusso turistico, vale un consiglio su tutti, a prescindere dal punto di appoggio verso cui ci si sta orientando: organizzarsi per tempo e selezionare le strutture con attenzione, per riuscire ad approfittare delle occasioni più interessanti.

Dormire (e, in generale, viaggiare) low-cost alle Hawaii?

È un po’ difficile, ma se in fase di organizzazione del viaggio vi rendete conto di non avere particolari preferenze riguardo alle isole da visitare , ricordate che ci sono zone più o meno costose, anche per quanto riguarda l’alloggio.

Per esempio nella Big Island (l’isola di Hawaii), i prezzi sono mediamente più bassi rispetto alle altre isole; a Hilo – il suo maggiore centro abitato – nelle note piattaforme di prenotazione online potrete trovare una camera doppia in hotel, in accoglienti B&B o in resort anche a meno di €100 a notte nel mese di giugno, in certi casi anche con colazione inclusa.

L’isola di Maui invece è tendenzialmente più costosa. Nell’antica capitale di Lahaina, per esempio, sempre una doppia a giugno, in strutture paragonabili a quelle indicate sopra, costa intorno ai €150 .

Idem per l’isola di Oahu : qui si spende un po’ di più.

Siete affezionati alla più classica delle sistemazioni, cioè l’albergo?

Sappiate che la tipologia di alloggio più diffusa alle Hawaii è invece il condo , il residence all’americana che include case con alcuni piani (due o tre) che solitamente stanno intorno ad una piscina centrale.

Si prendono in affitto singoli appartamenti – dai più microscopici a quelli smisurati – provvisti di tutto ciò che occorre per essere autonomi.

Nella maggior parte dei casi è presente un angolo cottura, e si può anche usufruire dei servizi che la struttura offre quali, per esempio: piscina, sedie per la spiaggia, servizio di lavanderia, centro fitness, barbecue.

E’ una soluzione più economica rispetto all’hotel e ottima anche per le famiglie che viaggiano con i bambini.

Ovviamente, i condo non hanno “tutto degli hotel”: in genere manca il cambio di biancheria (che però in genere viene messa a disposizione) e il servizio di pulizia.

Una nota sull’angolo cottura: è presente anche in alcuni hotel e può aiutare a ridurre i costi del vitto, voce di costo non indifferente per una vacanza alle Hawaii. Tra l’altro, l’idea di prepararsi il pranzo al sacco da portare in spiaggia non è niente male.

Tornando ai condo, se questa opzione vi interessa e siete già pronti a grigliare pesce fresco delle Hawaii nel vostro appartamento, allora potete curiosare nei siti delle catene più importanti (le maggiori sono le prime due):

• Castle Resort

Per i più spartani, infine, citiamo anche i campeggi , come soluzioni di alloggio alle Hawaii gratuite o quasi.

Piuttosto numerosi, si trovano sia nelle zone di mare che nei parchi naturali. Si tratta sostanzialmente di aree in cui si può piantare la tenda, prive però di luce e acqua.

È necessario disporre della propria attrezzatura, ma alcuni campeggi offrono – a pagamento – tende molto ben accessoriate o bungalow.

Qualche nome? Il camping grautito di Anahola, nell’isola di Kauai .

Per il campeggio vicino ai parchi naturali (che non è mai gratuito) occorrono i permessi delle autorità locali .

Come spostarsi all’interno delle isole

Prendere un’ auto a noleggio è praticamente indispensabile per muoversi all’interno delle isole; vi troverete bene perché si guida a destra, come da noi, ma limitate l’uso del clacson alle sole ragioni di sicurezza (suonarlo a sproposito è considerato sconveniente).

Per una affidabile prenotazione anticipata vi consigliamo il portale Auto Europe .

Scegliete attentamente le vostre coperture assicurative, optate per la tariffa chiamata full-full (auto consegnata e riconsegnata con il pieno di benzina) perché più vantaggiosa, e tenete conto del costo per la riconsegna dell’auto in un punto diverso da quello di ritiro. Il noleggio può costare circa $50 al giorno.

Una buona notizia: la benzina è molto meno costosa rispetto all’Italia.

Altri mezzi di trasporto validi, se proprio volete spostarvi qua e là e non intendete prendere un’auto a noleggio?

Praticamente nessuno, con un’eccezione. Esclusivamente per l’isola di Oahu, ci sono gli autobus di linea di The Bus .

Le altre isole invece non sono così ben servite: i bus sono poco frequenti e non sempre arrivano nelle destinazioni turistiche.

Noleggiare un’auto alle Hawaii Scopri tutte le info

Come trasferirsi da isola a isola

A meno che non decidiate di visitare a fondo una sola isola delle Hawaii, considerate che con una settimana di tempo a disposizione potrete visitare con soddisfazione due isole (i più ingordi vorrebbero vederne tre, ma per i giorni a disposizione sono troppe).

In ogni caso, per spostarvi potrete utilizzare i voli interni , che in trenta o sessanta minuti vi porteranno – direttamente o con scali – da un’isola all’altra. Queste tratte sono gestite da diversi vettori aerei, come:

• Hawaiian Airlines (la compagnia maggiore, che assicura collegamenti numerosi e frequenti).
• Mokulele Airlines
• Makani Kai Air

Per esempio, il prezzo della classica tratta Honolulu-Maui, con Hawaiian Airlines, parte da $90 (circa €74 ) in su, tasse incluse, ma occorre aggiungere il prezzo del bagaglio imbarcato, pari a $25 (circa €20 ) per valigia. Troppo alto, vero? Come potete leggere in questa pagina , iscrivendovi al programma punti della compagnia si ridurrà a $15 (poco più di €12).

L’uso dei traghetti può rappresentare una valida alternativa ai voli interni? Non proprio; attualmente sono attivi soltanto due collegamenti: quello tra Maui e Lanai, e quello tra Maui e Molokai.

Mangiare alle Hawaii è costoso?

Le Hawaii hanno ricevuto influenze sia dall’America, sia dall’Asia , e ciò si riflette nella varietà della loro cucina; avrete modo di scoprirlo gustando sapori diversi.

Quanto si spende mangiando?

Circa $10 per una colazione , fino a $25 per il pranzo , e per la cena ancora di più. Ricordate poi che lasciare la mancia è un’abitudine consolidata.

Potete decidere di non badare a spese per soddisfare il vostro palato oppure, se non volete esagerare, seguendo alcuni accorgimenti potrete risparmiare senza rinunciare a gustare delle ottime pietanze.

In questo caso, alternate pranzi e cene in ristorante alle proposte take away (hamburger, hot dog all’americana ecc.), oppure cucinate qualcosa nel vostro angolo cottura – se ne avete uno – attingendo dal buon assortimento dei market, molti dei quali propongono anche piatti pronti.

Le attrazioni

Le Hawaii oltre al meraviglioso mare offrono scorci ed esperienze uniche. Sentieri, vulcani, paesaggi mozzafiato, cascate, Grand Canyon, Parchi Nazionali, il museo a cielo aperto di Pearl Harbor , e tanto altro.

Le escursioni organizzate e le visite alle attrazioni hanno prezzi variabili, e ciascuno deciderà, in base alle proprie preferenze (e tasche) quali scegliere.

Dato che acquistando i biglietti singoli si spende di più, per contenere i costi è una buona idea prendere in considerazione anche i pass flessibili, che includono l’accesso ad un certo numero di luoghi di interesse e attrazioni.

Per esempio per l’isola di Oahu è disponibile la Go Oahu Card , che permette di risparmiare parecchio sui costi delle attrazioni.

L’Assicurazione sanitaria

Quando si va negli USA è sempre opportuno stipulare un’ assicurazione sanitaria .

Speriamo sempre di godere di ottima salute anche in viaggio, ma è bene sapere che in caso di passaggio al pronto soccorso o di ricovero alle Hawaii, l’assicurazione ci offrirebbe una tutela importante, dato che il nostro sistema sanitario non offre alcuna copertura per gli Stati Uniti. In mancanza di assicurazione, il costo delle cure sarebbe inaspettatamente elevato.

Il prezzo di queste assicurazioni non è affatto proibitivo; per esempio, un’assicurazione completa con Viaggi Sicuri (tipologia “Oro”) ha un costo di €54,77 per una persona, per 10 giorni.

In autonomia o con un viaggio all inclusive?

Organizzare in autonomia un viaggio verso una destinazione remota come le Hawaii al giorno d’oggi non è più un fatto così insolito, e poi – ammettiamolo – un bellissimo viaggio organizzato da noi al 100% ci rende ancora più felici.

Tenendo conto delle voci di costo indicate sopra possiamo stimare che un viaggio di 10 giorni complessivi (una settimana effettiva alle Hawaii) con la visita di due isole possa costare intorno ai €2000 a persona .

Per effettuare una stima attendibile personalizzata sulla base delle proprie esigenze (e intenzioni!), è importante includere tutte le voci di costo : voli aerei, alloggio, vitto, noleggio auto, benzina, mance, escursioni, inserendo anche “varie ed eventuali”, che copra le spese impreviste (qualche esempio: un’escursione costosa alla quale non saprete rinunciare, un souvenir prezioso ecc.).

Chi non ha voglia o tempo per organizzare il proprio viaggio, e non deve fare troppa attenzione al budget, può scegliere un viaggio all inclusive , che solleva dall’incombenza di programmare i singoli aspetti della vacanza.

Per esempio, su Expedia si può comodamente comporre un pacchetto vacanza da Roma alle Hawaii includendo volo + hotel + auto , e – per una durata simile a quella ipotizzata per la vacanza in autonomia (10 giorni viaggio a/r incluso) – il prezzo per persona apparirà “vantaggioso” in quanto, per la maggior parte delle strutture, inferiore ai €2000 a persona.

Questa cifra naturalmente è indicativa e variabile a seconda del periodo del viaggio.

Bisognerà però valutare se a conti fatti conviene davvero: occorre infatti aggiungere le altre voci di costo non incluse nella proposta – vitto, escursioni, ecc. – inoltre questo tipo di viaggio è pensato per visitare una sola isola hawaiana.

Nessuna limitazione di spesa e tanti giorni di ferie a disposizione? Allora si può esagerare con un vero tour organizzato delle Hawaii, che propone la visita di tre isole, per 15 giorni complessivi di viaggio. Sono incluse escursioni con guida parlante in inglese, ma escluse… tante cose (voli internazionali, tasse, trasferimenti, vitto).

E se invece l’obiettivo del viaggio è stare in relax totale e le escursioni non vi interessano più di tanto? Il classico “villaggio vacanze” potrà essere la scelta ideale per voi turisti stanziali.

Per esempio, l’Hilton Waikoloa Village è una struttura che già di per sé costituisce un’attrazione: torri grattacielo, collegamenti tra i diversi punti del villaggio con tram o barchette, giardini tropicali, cascate, un’immensa piscina in cui nuotare (volendo, anche con i delfini), campi da golf, da tennis e spa.

I migliori resort a Oahu Scoprili subito

Le mete alternative: Miami, Los Angeles, le Bahamas e la Polinesia

Chi desidera fare un viaggio verso le lontane e calde Hawaii, spesso pensa anche ad altre mete soleggiate come Miami, Los Angeles, le Bahamas o la Polinesia .

Nell’immaginario collettivo queste destinazioni possono essere considerate alternative, ma il costo per raggiungerle non è lo stesso per tutte.

Per fissare un ordine di grandezza possiamo considerare il prezzo dei voli (voce di spesa significativa per questo tipo di viaggi).

Costo medio dei voli nel mese di settembre 2018, a/r per una persona, con partenza da Roma.

• Circa €1100 per le Hawaii (Honolulu)
• Meno di €500 per Miami
• Meno di €440 per Los Angeles
• Circa €550 per le Bahamas (Nassau)
• Più di €1900 per la Polinesia (Tahiti)

Se per voi queste mete sono, in un certo senso, sostituibili, potreste orientare i vostri sogni di viaggio verso quella più in linea con il budget a disposizione.

Consigli utili per un viaggio alle Hawaii in autonomia

Siete decisi ad andare alle Hawaii in autonomia? Bene!

Ecco allora qualche utile suggerimento per il vostro viaggio:

Fare una prenotazione unica

Una prenotazione unica dei voli dall’Italia fino alla Hawaii è una scelta che vi tutelerà in caso di disguidi .

Infatti, stiamo parlando di un viaggio piuttosto articolato e con lunghi controlli doganali.

Nella sfortunata ipotesi in cui doveste perdere una coincidenza, o subire la cancellazione di un volo, aver acquistato i biglietti per l’intero itinerario vi assicurerà la protezione da parte delle compagnie aeree.

Tale garanzia manca quando si acquistano singoli biglietti per le destinazioni-scalo, da sommare per creare il viaggio.

In questo caso occorre valutare se l’eventuale piccolo risparmio che si ottiene rispetto alla prenotazione unica vale il rischio di non essere assistiti in caso di imprevisti.

Cercate voli da Los Angeles

Avete comunque deciso di acquistare biglietti singoli per risparmiare il più possibile? Un aeroporto da monitorare è quello di Los Angeles , perché proprio da qui partono voli tendenzialmente meno costosi.

Nel programmare i voli, tenete anche in considerazione il numero di ore che intercorre tra uno scalo e l’altro , per evitare corse disperate in aeroporto – in caso di voli eccessivamente ravvicinati – o, all’opposto, soste troppo lunghe e disagevoli in attesa dell’imbarco successivo.

Hotel in anticipo e con parcheggio gratuito

Optate per le sistemazioni (hotel, condo, ecc.) che offrono il parcheggio gratuito per la vostra auto a noleggio . Specialmente in località gettonate come Kona o Waikiki , i parcheggi possono costare fino a 30 dollari al giorno.

P renotate dall’Italia i vostri punti d’appoggio (hotel, condo, B&B ecc.): eviterete di pagare prezzi esorbitanti e vi risparmierete l’affanno della ricerca in loco.

Aeroporti con autonoleggio

Effettuerete dei voli interni? Per evitare disagi, verificate preventivamente che gli aeroporti abbiano il servizio di ritiro di autonoleggio . Per esempio il piccolo aeroporto di West Maui ne è privo. Preferite quindi, se possibile, gli aeroporti collocati in punti più strategici e ben “accessoriati”.

Buon viaggio!

il waikiki diove siono stato e molto bello e accogliente

Tim funziona alle Hawaii?

Ciao Giuseppe, sì, le Hawaii fanno parte degli USA per cui si può utilizzare tranquillamente TIM.

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