Say ‘Aloha!’ to Your Ultimate Hawaii Travel Guide

A volcanic archipelago nestled in the heart of the Pacific Ocean, Hawaii beckons to travelers with its unparalleled beauty, rich cultural heritage and endless opportunities for adventure. From the towering emerald cliffs of Kauai to the black-sand beaches of Maui, each island boasts a unique personality waiting to be explored.

Whether you crave relaxation on pristine shores, adrenaline-pumping hikes through volcanic landscapes or a deep dive into Polynesian traditions, Hawaii offers an unforgettable experience for every kind of traveler.

This comprehensive travel guide unveils the secrets of a perfect Hawaiian getaway, from planning your trip to indulging in the best the islands have to offer. So, grab your sunscreen, pack your sense of adventure and get ready to discover the magic of aloha!

What’s the best month for travel to Hawaii?

Hawaii enjoys a tropical climate year-round with mild temperatures and consistent sunshine. However, there are subtle variations. Peak season (summer) sees the most crowds and highest prices. Shoulder seasons (spring and fall) offer a good balance of weather and affordability. Winter is generally the wettest time, but rain showers are often short-lived.

Whalewatching season in Hawaii lasts from November through May, typically peaking between January and March. It’s easy to spot whales from shore on Maui, Oahu and Kauai (above). Big-wave season in Hawaii runs roughly November through February, though major surfing enthusiasts flock to Oahu’s North Shore in November and December to chase world-class waves.

You also won’t want to miss these popular events and festivals:

• Lei Day Celebration: Held on May 1, this festival honors the lei as a symbol of love and respect. A highlight is the parade, which meanders through the streets of Honolulu with color and excitement.
• King Kamehameha Celebration: Occurring on June 11, this annual event honors King Kamehameha I. You’ll experience horse-drawn floats adorned with beautiful native flowers making their way through the streets of Oahu.
• Ukulele Festival: More than 10,000 music lovers make this festival a must if you visit Oahu in July.
• Shinnyo Lantern Floating Hawai‘i: A serene Memorial Day event at Ala Moana Beach in Oahu, this ancient Japanese tradition has found a unique home within Hawaiian culture as a chance for reflection and remembrance.
• Hawaii Pacific Great Aloha Run: Every year in February this 8.15-mile charitable race starts in the heart of downtown Honolulu and finishes at Aloha Stadium in Pearl Harbor.
• Hawaii Food & Wine Festival: These festivals, which are held annually on various islands in October and November, showcase the best food and drinks from around the islands and beyond.

How much money should you save for a Hawaii vacation?

A family of four can expect to spend an average of $11,321 for a 10-day trip to Hawaii, according to The Hawaii Vacation Guide. Of course, individual budgets vary based on accommodations, activities and more. To plan the Hawaiian vacation of your dreams for any budget, contact a AAA Travel Agent, who can help with planning airfare, hotels, meals, activities and transportation.

What to know before visiting Hawaii

Discover the very best of Hawaii, including Kauai, Oahu, Maui and the Big Island.

Understanding local customs and etiquette

Hawaii has a rich cultural heritage deeply rooted in respect for the land and the people. Here are a few practical and cultural tips to keep in mind:

• Learn a few basic Hawaiian phrases: “Aloha” (love, affection; greeting, salutation; hello/goodbye), “Mahalo” (thanks, gratitude, respect) and “A hui hou” (until we meet again, goodbye) are greatly appreciated.
• Dress modestly when visiting cultural heritage and religious sites.
• Be mindful of the environment: Avoid littering and respect fragile ecosystems. Do not take rocks or gravel with you, as they are considered sacred. Also, be aware that Hawaii has banned plastic bags because of environmental concerns, so you’ll need to carry your own bag when you shop or you’ll be charged for a reusable one that the store provides for your purchases.
• Receiving a lei: When you arrive or leave Hawaii, you may be given a lei. This is a gesture of love and may also be accompanied by a friendly hug or peck on the cheek.
• Leave your shoes at the door: You’ll notice that many people remove their footwear before entering a house, a tradition that comes from Japanese culture.

Saving money on travel

If you want to save a bit of money on hotels during your Hawaii vacation, it pays to know the most inexpensive times to travel. During the off-season, from September to early December and from February to early April, you can often find lower prices than you’ll find during the peak summer travel months.

Bundled travel deals combining your airfare, transportation, accommodations, meals, entertainment, activities and excursions can also help you save money.

You can also opt to stay in Hawaii’s less-expensive areas. For instance, Maui is the most expensive island according to the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority. One way to keep the cost of your stay lower is to stay on the other islands, like Oahu (above) and the Big Island, for example. Hotels nearest tourism hot spots like Waikiki Beach can come at a premium. Hotels on the west side of Oahu, for instance, can be a bit more affordable.

Finally, one way to keep your hotel costs down is to choose a room with no views, a partial ocean view or city views. Since you’ll likely be spending most of your days out and about exploring Hawaii, consider saving money by getting a no-view room in which to spend the night.

Navigating Hawaii as a first-time visitor

Beyond the postcard-perfect beaches, Hawaii offers a plethora of experiences for the adventurous spirit. Here are some recommendations for nature-loving and culture-exploring travelers.

• Hiking: Embark on breathtaking hikes through lush rainforests, volcanic craters and along dramatic coastlines. Popular locations include the Kalalau Trail on Kauai, Waimea Canyon on Kauai and Haleakalā National Park on Maui for a sunrise or sunset crater hike.
• Water sports: From world-class surfing at Waikiki Beach and Hanalei Bay to snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs, Hawaii’s waters offer endless possibilities.
• Whalewatching: Witness the awe-inspiring sight of humpback whales migrating through Hawaiian waters.
• Luau: Immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture at a traditional luau, featuring Polynesian dancing, music, storytelling and a delicious feast.
• Museums and historic sites: Learn about the rich history of Hawaii at museums like the Bishop Museum in Honolulu or by visiting historic sites like ‘Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States.
• Pearl Harbor: History aficionados can learn about World War II history and the devastating events of Dec. 7, 1941, “a day which will live in infamy.”
• Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park: Extending from sea level to 13,680 feet above it, the park encompasses the summits of two of the world’s most active volcanoes: Kīlauea and Mauna Loa. It also includes some of the world’s unique geological and cherished cultural landscapes.

Top Hawaiian islands to visit

Hawaii is not just one island, but six major ones (Oahu, Maui, Kauai, the Big Island, Molokai and Lanai) and several smaller islets, each with its own distinct characteristics.

Discover the Hawaiian island that best matches your travel preferences and idea of a dream vacation.

• Oahu: The most populous island, Oahu is home to the vibrant city of Honolulu, world-class surfing at Waikiki Beach and historic landmarks like Pearl Harbor. Ideal for those seeking a mix of urban excitement and natural beauty.
• Maui: Renowned for its luxurious resorts, stunning beaches and the dormant volcano Haleakalā (above), Maui offers a balance between relaxation and adventure.
• Kauai: Often called the Garden Isle, Kauai boasts lush rainforests, dramatic waterfalls and the breathtaking Nāpali Coast. Perfect for nature lovers and hikers.
• The Big Island: The largest island, the Big Island offers diverse landscapes, from snow-capped peaks to active volcanoes. A great destination for those who want to experience a variety of ecosystems.
• Molokai and Lanai: Less crowded than the larger islands, Molokai and Lanai provide a more secluded experience, with pristine beaches, authentic local culture and a slower pace of life.

Let AAA be your Hawaii travel guide

With turquoise waters and soft, sandy shores, this island paradise is bound to soothe your soul. Let the Hawaii’s breathtaking beauty renew you and its soft breezes refresh you. AAA Travel Agents are standing by to help you create the Hawaii vacation itinerary of your dreams.