Hawaii Travel Guide: the best things to do, see, and eat
Wondering what to seek out as you island hop from the Big Island to Maui to Oahu? Dig into the expert tips in this Hawaii Travel Guide and get ready to soak up the beauty of the Aloha State.
What if we told you there’s a place right here in the U.S. that has lush, green rainforests full of cascading waterfalls, black-sand beaches dotted with sunning sea turtles, and snorkeling spots worth writing home about? That’s Hawaii for you, and let us tell you: The 50th state really delivers.
There are so many things to do in Hawaii, and how you spend your day depends on the island you’re visiting. “Different members of our group fell in love with different islands because each one has a distinct personality,” said traveler Frank after our Hawaii: Oahu, the Big Island & Maui tour. Ready to explore the Aloha State? Check out the expert tips in our Hawaii Travel Guide before you touch down.
Hawaii travel basics
Currency: U.S. dollar
Best way to get around: With all the winding roads that weave past the unforgettable coastline, one of the best ways to get around Hawaii is by bus or car. (And good news, we’ve saved you a seat on a private motor coach on our tours of Hawaii.)
If island hopping is up your alley, then you’re going to want to book quick flights to make your way from Oahu, to the Big Island, to Maui, and beyond. Our travel experts handle those flights on tour, so all you have to do is show up! Our tip? Keep your eyes on the window, since it doesn’t get any more spectacular than seeing the Hawaiian Islands from above. See how Go Ahead does flights right →
Languages: Hawaii is the only U.S. state to have two official languages: English and Hawaiian (ʻOlelo Hawaiʻi). But, don’t expect every local you meet to speak Hawaiian—while there’s an effort by the United Nations to preserve this culturally rich Indigenous language, only a small percentage of native Hawaiians still speak it, and UNESCO has listed it as critically endangered.
English is the predominant language, and you’ll be able to speak it everywhere while visiting Hawaii on tour. However, many native Hawaiians are also fluent in a third, unofficial language: Pidgin, also known as Hawaiian Creole English. This unofficial language was born in the 19th century when people of many different backgrounds were brought to work on Hawaii’s sugar plantations. This new language allowed people from Japan, the Philippines, Portugal, and beyond to communicate with each other, and it’s since become part of Hawaii’s cultural fabric.
Today, a large population of people from the Philippines and Japan still call Hawaii home, so keep your ears perked to hear Japanese and the Filipino dialects of Tagalog and Ilocano!
Hawaiian phrases to know:
- Aloha. This sunny sentiment means “hello” and “goodbye,” but it’s also used to capture the spirit and way of life in Hawaii. It conveys warmth, love, compassion, respect, and affection between people and is a phrase deeply ingrained in the heart and culture of Hawaii.
- Mahalo is the local way to say “thank you.”
When is the best time to visit Hawaii?
Honestly, the best time to visit Hawaii is any time. The sunny Aloha State is as close to paradise on Earth as you’ll get and feels tropical year-round. So, whether you need to duck into a local shop during a brief rain shower or take a dive in the ocean during free time on extra hot days, you’ll be glad you’re there. Trying to decide when to take your Hawaii trip? Keep in mind that the state only experiences two distinct seasons: winter (which runs from November to April) and summer (which runs from May to October). Here are some of our staffers’ favorite times to visit Hawaii.
Visit Hawaii in November for cooler temps (and don’t be put off by fleeting rain showers!)
“Guides will tell you that the winter months have more rain, but rain in Hawaii is more of a temporary condition than a day-ruining event,” said staffer Kyle. “It will rain for 40 minutes, clear up, and be beautifully sunny again before you know it. The trade winds push everything through pretty quickly. November isn’t supposed to be a great time to go, but when I was there it was 85 F and beautiful every single day.”
Visit Hawaii in January for whale watching wonder
January falls right in the peak of humpback whale season in Hawaii, when thousands migrate to the warm waters surrounding the islands to breed and give birth. The ocean is calmer and clearer during this time of year, so spotting them is more of a sure thing if you set off on a whale watch during free time. Even better? January in Hawaii usually sees fewer crowds, so you’ll have more of the natural scenery to yourself.
Visit Hawaii in March for sunny days sans scorching temps
“This time of year offered sun-and-shorts weather without the sweltering temps and crowds that the summer brings,” said staffer Emily. “Expect a bit more rain this time of year, but just know it won’t ruin your trip! I still went to the beach, hiked, and snorkeled while on Oahu in March.”
Visit Hawaii in May to dodge April vacationers while savoring warm days
“We went in May and it was perfect,” said staffer Andrea. “We avoided school breaks so it wasn’t crazy packed with lots of families, but the weather was still perfect every day and not too hot like it can be in July and August.”
Visit Hawaii in early June for summer exploration before the big crowds of July arrive
“My husband and I usually spend four weeks on Maui in June—it’s a great time of year there in terms of weather and isn’t the most packed in terms of tourists,” said staffer Courtney.
Visit Hawaii in September for the Aloha Festivals
Come September, the summer rush in Hawaii starts to wind down and the warm, sunny days still stick around! But, the real star of September isn’t the weather—it’s the Aloha Festivals that run throughout the month. These celebrations put authentic Hawaiian culture on display through a series of hula dances, traditional food and music, and parades. While many of the main events take place on Oahu, celebrations happen across the islands—and make September one of the best times to visit Hawaii.
The best places to visit in Hawaii
There’s no shortage of Hawaii islands to visit. The Hawaiian archipelago is a mesmerizing patchwork of 137 isles, eight of which are considered main islands. While most visitors can’t go to Kahoolawe due to its military history or to Niihau, which is privately owned, there’s more than enough wonder waiting on the other isles. Here are some of the top places to visit on our guided tours of Hawaii.
The Big Island of Hawaii
Sure, the entire state is known as “Hawaii,” but that’s also the name of the largest island in the state’s island chain. It’s not only big in size—it’s big in adventure, scenery, and geological wonders you just won’t find anywhere else in the world. So, one of our top Hawaii travel tips is to lean on your expert Tour Director, who can help you narrow down all the things to do in Hawaii.
The island of Maui
Looking for things to do in Maui, Hawaii? Lucky for you, there are plenty of moments that’ll knock your traveling socks off! It’s nicknamed the Valley Isle because it’s nestled between to large dormant volcanoes—which means the scenery is unmatched. That might explain why season 1 of “The White Lotus” was filmed here. “The only thing I can say about Maui is WOW,” said traveler Susan after our Hawaii: Oahu, the Big Island & Maui tour.
Feeling “The White Lotus” effect? These real-life filming locations are showstopping destinations →
The island of Oahu
Oahu is one of the best places to visit in Hawaii. The Hawaiian state capital, Honolulu, is there, and one Oahu, Hawaii travel guide tip is to immerse yourself in culture at every opportunity on our A Week in Hawaii: Oahu & Kauai tour. “One of my best friends lived in Oahu and one thing I noticed whenever she talked with her friends was how proud the locals are of their home and the native Hawaiian culture—especially those who grew up there,” said staffer Emily.
The island of Kauai
Of all the things to do in Hawaii, making a stop on Kauai tops the list. Kauai is sitting pretty as the oldest Hawaiian island—and the greenest! “Lush” comes to mind when picturing the waterfall-filled rainforest here on the aptly named Garden Island. Pay this pristine spot a visit by booking our A Week in Hawaii: Oahu & Kauai tour or by adding the extension on our Hawaii: Oahu, the Big Island & Maui tour.
The island of Lanai
Lanai may not be an included stop on our Hawaii tours, but visiting during free time is always a good idea—it’s one of the best places to visit in Hawaii, and it deserves a spotlight in every guide to the Hawaiian Islands! Plus, it’s easy to get to from the other isles. “There’s a ferry from Maui to Lanai, which is quick and affordable,” said staffer Courtney. If you do pop over to Lanai for a visit, keep in mind that many of Lanai’s rugged roads are unpaved, so it’s important to plan transportation ahead of time.
What to see in Hawaii
Lush mountains, sprawling shorelines, volcanic landscapes, pristine rainforests—the list of things to see in Hawaii is almost endless. This tropical state has natural beauty in spades (and a culture to match). Here are some Hawaii travel tips about iconic spots to see on your tour of Hawaii.
Pearl Harbor
Visiting Oahu on our Hawaii: Oahu, the Big Island & Maui tour is made even more moving with this stop. It’s the site of the infamous bombing that pushed the U.S. to enter World War II, and seeing it for yourself is like stepping back in history. “My husband and I especially liked the trip to Pearl Harbor, not realizing that it would be such an emotional visit to the USS Arizona Memorial,” said traveler Susan.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Visiting this UNESCO-listed national park on the Big Island is truly a must. Here, new lava flows from Kilauea volcano on a daily basis. (It is one of the world’s most active volcanoes, after all!) “There are big clearings where trees can’t grow because the ground is too hot, and the landscape is very craggy from the lava flows,” said traveler Haley. “It’s so different than what you’d expect!” Set off on our Hawaii tours to peer into Kilauea’s caldera and learn how Indigenous Hawaiian beliefs held that Pele, goddess of fire, resided there.
Waimea Canyon
Any place dubbed “the Grand Canyon of the Pacific” is a spot you want to see, and Waimea Canyon surely delivers on its nickname. (This gorge plunges up to 3,000 feet deep in some places!) “I loved it,” said staffer Nilsen. “Visiting is a great experience for our travelers. It’s mostly driving on windy roads with stops at beautiful lookouts, and the views are incredible. Waimea Canyon does remind one of a small Grand Canyon.” Admire it by adding the Kauai extension on our Hawaii: Oahu, the Big Island & Maui tour or by setting off on our new A Week in Hawaii: Oahu & Kauai tour.
Pu‘uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park
This spot is distinguished as one of the most sacred heiau (places of worship) on the island of Hawaii. Up until the 19th century, this was a place of refuge for warriors and others who had broken a kapu (sacred law); Hawaiians would flee here to escape punishment by death, and would be absolved by a kahuna, or priest. It’s a powerful, peaceful spot in Kona, and a visit should be at the top of your Hawaii bucket list.
The waterfalls along the Hana Highway
This winding route connects Kahului to the town of Hana on the island of Maui, and it’s lined with stunning waterfalls that are best visited on foot. “The falls are really beautiful and you can bring along a swimsuit so you can jump in the water if you want to cool down,” said traveler Haley. (You get a full free day in Maui on our Hawaii: Oahu, the Big Island & Maui tour, so there’s plenty of time to lace up your hiking shoes!) Hiking not really your thing? “To fully appreciate Maui’s rugged beauty, rent a Jeep and drive the long, winding, narrow road to Hana,” suggested staffer Lindsay. “It offers spectacular views of waterfalls, tropical forests, and the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, keep an eye out for roadside stands selling snacks like homemade lilikoi (passion fruit) ice cream, coconut pudding, and loaves of warm banana bread.”
Downtown Lahaina on Maui
“We loved Maui the most as a group,” said staffer Stephanie. “There was plenty of beach time and relaxing, but also incredible places to explore like Haleakala National Park, where you can hike above the clouds, and the downtown area of Lahaina, where you can shop and do a beautiful sunset cruise.” (Psst... Lahaina is only about an eight-minute ride from the town of Kaanapali, where we stay overnight on our Hawaii: Oahu, the Big Island & Maui tour, so getting there during free time is a cinch!)
Haleakala National Park
The island of Maui lays claim to this geological gem, which you can explore on our Hawaii: Oahu, the Big Island & Maui tour. (The park does timed visits, so getting in with our experts is a real perk!) More than 75% of Maui is covered with the dormant Haleakala volcano, and you’ll get the chance to look out over the volcano’s crater from the Haleakala Visitor Center and eat a barbecue lunch at a pineapple farm—all while taking in views of the Pacific Ocean in the distance.
What to eat and drink in Hawaii
No Hawaii Travel Guide is complete without a mention of the authentic, unique, go-back-for-seconds food! Hawaiian cuisine is a fusion of local flavors and fascinating history, with influences from both fourth-century Polynesian settlers and the modern-day U.S. (And if you’re wondering where to start, here’s a hint: “Fresh fish dishes were the highlight at pretty much all the restaurants we visited,” said staffer Kyle.) Here are some of the top bites to try on tour in Hawaii.
Poke
Pronounced “poh-keh,” this dish is marinated raw fish cut into chunks and often served with rice, seaweed, avocado, and more. “Insider tip: The local grocery store, Foodland, has some of the best poke ever in the fresh seafood section and it is very affordable!” said staffer Carly. Staffer Lindsay couldn’t agree more. “Order scoops of spicy ahi poke and ahi poke with avocado to enjoy at the beach, on a park bench, or wherever you feel like enjoying this authentically Hawaiian snack,” she said.
SPAM musubi
“For a tasty, easy-to-eat snack or light lunch with some history behind it, get your hands on some SPAM musubi,” said staffer Lindsay. “It originated in Hawaii during WWII and is made by wrapping a strip of nori, or seaweed paper, around a stack of grilled SPAM and cooked white rice—similar in style to Japanese onigiri.”
Poi
This purple, pudding-like bite is a truly special Hawaiian dish, and every guide to the Hawaiian Islands should include a mention. It’s made from water and the mashed root of the taro plant—using the same method that’s been used for centuries!—and can be either sweet or sour.
Shave ice
This is exactly what it sounds like: a block of ice shaved down into fine pieces, and drizzled with sweet syrup. Remind you of a snow cone? You’re right on the mark! Japanese immigrants working on sugar and pineapple plantations in the 1800s brought this refreshing treat to Hawaii, and it’s popular with both locals and visitors today.
Loco moco
“This is a must-try,” said staffer Andrea. “It’s a ground beef dish with rice, fried egg, and gravy—a heavy and hearty breakfast or brunch option.”
A plate lunch
This inexpensive, filling, and famous dish came about in the 1800s and is still a go-to bite for Hawaiians at roadside stalls. Every plate has macaroni salad, two scoops of rice, and a protein, like chicken, shrimp, pork, or loco moco.
Acai bowls
“When fresh, tropical fruit is what you’re craving, an acai bowl is always the answer,” said staffer Emily. “The best part about them is you can customize your toppings. Most places offer a variety of options including coconut, pineapple, granola, honey, strawberries, and so much more.”
Pineapple upside down cake
“Pineapple is so important to Hawaii’s culture and economy, and it just so happens to be delicious,” said staffer Lindsay. “One of my favorite ways to enjoy the fruit on Maui was getting the pineapple upside down cake from Hali’imaile General Store. They bake slices of Maui Gold pineapple into rounds of buttery pound cake and serve it with scoops of fresh whipped cream or ice cream. It’s blissfully warm, sweet, tart, caramelized, and melty all at once.”
Puka Dogs
“These are hot dogs from a particular shop called Puka Dog on Kauai, and they have special sauces and buns,” said staffer Nilsen.
Maui blanc
“A must-try, and a uniquely Maui gift to bring home for wine-loving friends, is Maui blanc, a crisp, off-dry wine made from—what else?—Maui pineapples,” said staffer Lindsay.
Local craft beers
“A pleasant surprise was Kona Brewing Co. beer,” said staffer Kyle. “There’s nothing like a Big Wave Golden Ale after a day at the beach or a hike through a Kilauea lava field.”
Fun things to do in Hawaii
Finding interesting things to do in Hawaii is as simple as stepping outside. The state is chock-full of varied landscapes, sunny coastlines, and fascinating history, which makes for countless activities around every corner. Here are a few to enjoy on both our Hawaii: Oahu, the Big Island & Maui tour and our new A Week in Hawaii: Oahu & Kauai tour.
Visit the Maui Gold Pineapple Farm
“We were able to go to the Maui Gold Pineapple Farm and cut and taste some fresh pineapple right in the fields, and they were AMAZING,” said staffer Stephanie. Even if this stop isn’t on your itinerary, tasting pineapple in Hawaii is always a good idea. “You should start your day with a fresh acai bowl, have tuna poke at some point during your time because the fish is outrageously fresh, and eat anything pineapple,” she said.
Cruise along or snorkel in Kealakekua Bay on Hawaii
This protected bay is one of the best places to dive in on our Kealakekua Catamaran Cruise & Snorkeling excursion thanks to its remote location and dazzling marine life. “Kealakekua Bay is a famous snorkeling spot because it’s in a very protected cove,” said traveler Haley. “There were dolphins that swam beside our boat, and we got to see them while we snorkeled, too!”
Sail along the Na Pali Coast while visiting Kauai
Adding the Na Pali Coast Boast Excursion to your A Week in Hawaii: Oahu & Kauai tour is a sure way to infuse your trip with even more magic. The Na Pali Coast is widely regarded as Hawaii’s most beautiful coastline, and you’ll cruise past emerald cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and secluded sea caves on a spacious catamaran. Sound appealing? Keep this Kauai, Hawaii travel guide tip in mind: Look for dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine life as you sail, and maybe even swim alongside them with the provided snorkel gear.
Look for sea turtles at Punalu‘u Beach in Kona, Hawaii
Want to get close to nature during your free day in Kona on the Big Island on our Hawaii: Oahu, the Big Island & Maui tour? Punalu‘u Beach is calling. This pristine spot boasts black sands that sit in striking contrast to the bright blue ocean. You may come to simply stroll along the beach, but if you’re lucky, you’ll see Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles basking on the sand, too! Check out six coastal cities worth visiting →
Taste farm-to-bar chocolate on Maui
Maui is known for its high-quality chocolate, and you can taste some for yourself by adding the Maui Chocolate Tour & Tasting excursion to our Hawaii: Oahu, the Big Island & Maui tour. You’ll pay a visit to a local chocolate factory to learn about the production process before heading into the foothills of the West Maui Mountains to visit a private cacao estate. Cap off your farm-to-bar interactive tour with the good stuff: a tasting of a variety of award-winning chocolates!
Take a self-guided tour of Honolulu’s murals on Oahu
“The street art in Honolulu’s Kaka‘ako neighborhood was a real hidden-gem,” said staffer Emily. “Some pieces symbolize Hawaiian heritage and culture, many showcase the local ties to protecting local wildlife and preserving the land, and others showcase the warm aloha spirit. It’s a great way for visitors to get an insight into the values and culture of those who live on the island.” Staffer Lindsay also loved this staggering street art. “Dozens of massive, incredibly detailed murals blanket the sides of buildings in the area,” she said. “They’re painted each February by hundreds of local and international artists as part of POW! WOW!, an international art movement.”
See the Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, Culture & Design in Honolulu, Oahu
“Visit this museum during free time if you love art, architecture, and design and want to experience a hidden cultural gem during your free time on Oahu,” said staffer Lindsay. “Set on the stunningly beautiful former Honolulu estate of the late American billionaire tobacco heiress Doris Duke and her husband, James Cromwell, it features art, textiles, and other objects from North Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia—regions Duke explored extensively. Reservations are required, and tours are offered exclusively through the Honolulu Museum of Art. Be sure to plan accordingly, because you won’t want to miss it.”
Admire Kauai’s mountain vistas from Hanapepe Valley
Kauai is known as the Garden Isle, and its emerald, mountainous landscape is one reason why. See it for yourself during a stop at the Hanapepe Valley Lookout on our new A Week in Hawaii: Oahu & Kauai tour, where lush scenery will unfurl before you. Your perch will offer up sweeping views of Kauai’s greenery-covered mountains and the Hanapepe River.
Take a guided outrigger canoe tour on Maui during free time
Spending your free day on Maui on the water on our Hawaii: Oahu, the Big Island & Maui tour is always a good idea. “This is an activity that’ll get your heart pumping and provide insight into an important part of life for ancient Hawaiians,” said staffer Lindsay. “You’ll see some spectacular ocean scenery (and maybe even spot whales!) and learn about this ancient tradition that’s still a deeply revered and celebrated part of Hawaii’s history.”
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Souvenirs to buy in Hawaii
Hawaii is so off-the-charts unforgettable that you’re sure to want to take a piece home with you when you leave. Just remember: Collect all the pictures and trinkets you want, but leave everything else as you explore the island. You don’t want to risk contributing to erosion, or insulting traditional beliefs. “One thing to absolutely NOT take is volcanic rocks from the top of Haleakala or any of the other sacred volcanoes,” said staffer Kyle. “In all seriousness, it angers the gods and will bring bad luck.” Sacred volcanic rocks aside, here are some of the best souvenirs to pick up on tour in Hawaii.
Pineapples!
“One of my favorite souvenirs to bring back is a fresh pineapple picked from the farms,” said staffer Jess. “They have small boxes for you to pack a single pineapple in your luggage, or you can get a pack of six pineapples and check it as a bag.”
Hawaiian Coffee
Staffers Jess and Kyle were sure to grab some freshly roasted Kona coffee while visiting the Big Island, but it’s bound to be good on other islands, too. “Kauai has some of America’s biggest coffee plantations,” said staffer Andrea.
Homemade Anahola Granola from Kauai
“Anahola is a brand we saw everywhere, but there are also TONS of cute little farmers market-type grocery stores on the side of the road in each little town, and they’d each have their own varieties,” said staffer Andrea. “We saw everything from plain to honey-toasted to mixed berry, etc. Anything mixed with macadamia nut was also super popular (ginger-macademia, coconut-macadamia, etc.).
A ukulele
This musical instrument is said to represent the spirit of Aloha in Hawaii and is an important part of the state’s history and heritage. “If you want a more expensive gift, an authentic ukulele is awesome, or you could get something made of Hawaiian Koa wood,” said staffer Kyle.
What to pack for Hawaii trips
Hawaii may make you think of sunny beach days and warm weather galore—and you’re not far off the mark. But, while packing for warm weather is a must when traveling to Hawaii, be sure to throw the following items in your suitcase, too.
Layers
This is a key packing tip for Hawaii, according to staffer Marina. “Hawaii can be toasty during the day and chillier at night, so always bring a light jacket to dinner just in case,” she said.
Sun protection
“Reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and UV-protected clothes are highly encouraged,” said staffer Liz. “The sun is super intense regardless of the time of year.”
Comfortable walking shoes
Exploring all the amazing sites in Hawaii means spending a good amount of time on your feet. So, supporting your arches is a good idea. “I brought a good pair of sneakers and Birkenstocks, and both were perfect,” said staffer Ronni.
Beach day essentials
“Be sure to pack sunscreen, a bathing suit, sunglasses, sandals—the whole nine yards," said staffer Emily. “All of these must-pack items will come in handy while you’re out on the water, and some will serve double duty during sightseeing tours.”
Light, moisture-wicking layers—and a raincoat!
“Sun showers and bouts of humidity come and go throughout the day in Hawaii,” said staffer Emily. “It’s what keeps the vegetation looking so fresh and green! Be sure to pack a raincoat, as well as sneakers that won’t get waterlogged. If you’re looking to be more active, quick-dry shorts and tanks will be your best friend.”
A beach cover-up
“Bathing suits and athleisure are the name of the game in Hawaii, as well as sundresses for nice afternoons and evenings out on the water,” said staffer Stephanie. “Having a cover-up over a bathing suit was a popular option when it came to more relaxing days.”
Water shoes
While every beach in Hawaii is practically picture perfect, some can be a little rocky, and others might have coral or volcanic rock in the water. Staffer Ronni’s tip? “Pack a good pair of water shoes (like Chacos) for walking in the sand and having a quick rinse afterward,” she said.
Bug spray
Hawaii’s warm, tropical climate is ideal for outdoor exploring—but it’s also ideal for mosquitoes. So, be sure to have repellent on hand, “especially if you plan to hike or spend ample time out in nature,” suggested staffer Andrea.
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It was Jamie’s homestay in Germany that made her fall in love with travel (and her studies in Florence that really sealed the deal). When she’s not writing and sharing the magic of seeing the world with others, she’s usually on the lookout for her new favorite memoir, testing out recipes at home, or visiting her family on Cape Cod.
