7 Tips for Planning the Perfect Hawaiian Vacation

The beautiful islands of Hawaii are a popular destination for families, couples, or anyone looking for the perfect beach escape. An ideal stopover to the South Pacific, Hawaii features something for every Globetrotter – from the cosmopolitan city of Honolulu and world-class beaches in Maui to natural waterfalls and rainforests in Kauai and an active volcano in Big Island’s National Volcanoes Park. Here are some tips to help make your vacation in Hawaii even more enjoyable: 

1. Use Jetlag to Your Advantage 

If you’re an early riser on your first morning (typically East Coast travellers who experience the most jet lag), embrace that opportunity to go for a morning hike or embark on the beautiful Haleakala sunrise tour in Maui, which starts at 2 am. 

2. Book a Car in Advance 

Renting a car in Hawaii is a wonderful way to explore the islands, however, cars sell out fast in Hawaii, especially convertibles and 4WD, so ensure you book your vehicle well in advance.

3. Visit Pearl Harbor 

Tickets to the USS Arizona Memorial (a floating memorial accessed by a boat shuttle) sell out very fast, but they are guaranteed should you book a tour. The tours are also very educational, so be sure to book them in advance. 

4. Island Hop… Slowly 

There’s a lot to see and do in all the Hawaiian Islands, but you’ll be disappointed if you rush it. We recommend spending at least four days on each island. Furthermore, some distances are quite far apart, especially on the Big Island. For example, it would take a full day to circle the Big Island and visit its main attractions of Waimea, Volcanoes National Park, and more, leaving very little time at each site.

5. Splurge on an Ocean View Room 

The scenery is beautiful, romantic, and unforgettable. This is especially true if you’re travelling during the whale season (December to May), as you're likely to spot majestic humpback whales from your balcony. 

6. Pick Activities That Suit Your Fitness Level 

The Kalalau Trail is an 11 mi (18 km) walk along the Na Pali Coast on the island of Kauai, making it a pretty-strenuous hike. On the other hand, the hike to the summit of Diamond Head in Oahu is a moderate 1.5 mi (2.5 km) round-trip walk. Choosing activities aligned with your fitness level ensures an enjoyable and fulfilling experience, whether tackling challenging trails or opting for more moderate ascents. 

7. Eat Like a Local

Hawaiian resorts don’t offer all-inclusive packages for good reason: it's best to get out and explore the local restaurants! You can sample the local shrimp trucks on Oahu’s North Shores, dine on some of the freshest sushi in the world, or stop and have a picnic on the beach.