Hawaii Hotels

Aloha! Welcome to the fascinating world of Hawaii! This island chain, America's paradise, contains many beauties worth exploring. Whether you dream of surfing the waves, sunbathing on gorgeous beaches, or exploring active volcanoes, Hawaii offers it all.

What awaits you in Hawaii? The vibrant atmosphere of Waikiki Beach on Oahu, the excitement of watching the sunrise at Haleakalā Crater on Maui, the breathtaking views of the Na Pali Coast on Kauai, and impressive nature walks in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island.

In short, Hawaii is every traveler's dream destination. Get ready to experience the Aloha spirit and create unforgettable memories!

Things To Know Before Going To Hawaii

• Aloha as a Lifestyle: Aloha is not just a greeting, but a way of life characterized by easygoingness, friendliness, and feeling welcomed.
• Respectful Language: Learning and using simple Hawaiian words and phrases shows respect for the culture and locals.
• Leis: Receive a lei upon arrival or departure, symbolizing aloha and affection. Wear a closed lei on the shoulders and an open lei around the neck.
• Respect Rocks: Do not take rocks or gravel with you. They are sacred to Hawaiians, and taking them can lead to unfortunate consequences. Return any taken rocks to the Volcano National Park on the Big Island or Maui County website.
• Surfing and SUP Origins: Surfing was invented off Hawaii's shores, and stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) also originated in the state.
• Hawaiian Language: Hawaiian is an official language, and learning it is a sign of respect for the culture.

Hawaii Tips From Locals

• Avoid leaving valuables in your rental car. If necessary, stash them before arriving at your destination.
• Everything shuts down early in Hawaii, especially on the neighbor isles. On Maui, almost nothing is open after 10pm. Liquor laws are strict.
• It's impolite in Hawaiʻi to refuse an offered gift. Accept what is offered, such as a slice of pineapple after a hike or leftover groceries from departing travelers.
• Wash all locally grown fruits and vegetables thoroughly before consumption to avoid rat lungworm disease.
• Be cautious around Monkeypod trees when it's raining. The pods create a slippery, soap-like substance on the pavement.
• Don't rent a car for your entire stay. Most attractions are near Waikīkī and are walkable or accessible via shuttles.
• Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft are available, but check their status for airport rides due to possible conflicts with taxi companies.
• If you see small purple/blue bubbles with dark tails at the beach, avoid them and leave the water. These are Portuguese Man O’War, and their tentacles can cause painful stings.

Where is Hawaii?

Hawaii is a state located in the central Pacific Ocean. It is composed of a group of islands, the most notable of which are Oahu, Maui, the Big Island (Hawai'i), Kauai, Molokai, and Lanai. Hawaii is about 2,400 miles southwest of California and about 3,800 miles from Japan. The state is known for its diverse natural scenery, tropical climate, and rich cultural heritage. The capital city of Hawaii is Honolulu, which is situated on the island of Oahu.

Where To Stay In Hawaii?

Here’s a quick table of which areas in Hawaii are great for tourists:

Best Hotels in Hawaii 

Find best hotels in Hawaii here!

Places To Visit In Hawaii

Some of the best places to visit in Hawaii include:

• Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park: Explore the active volcanoes Kilauea and Mauna Loa, with hiking trails and lava viewing opportunities.
• Mauna Kea: Visit the summit for world-class stargazing and observatories offering tours and night sky programs.
• Akaka Falls State Park: Hike to see the stunning 442-foot Akaka Falls amidst lush tropical rainforest.
• Punalu'u Black Sand Beach: Relax on the unique black sand beach and spot sea turtles basking on the shore.
• Haleakalā National Park: Experience the breathtaking sunrise from the summit of the Haleakalā volcano, with panoramic views and hiking trails.
• Road to Hana: Drive this scenic route featuring waterfalls, rainforests, and coastal views, with plenty of stops for exploration.
• Lāhainā: Stroll through this historic town with art galleries, shops, and the famous Banyan Tree.
• Molokini Crater: Snorkel or dive in this partially submerged volcanic crater, known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.
• Waikiki Beach: Enjoy the iconic beach known for surfing, vibrant nightlife, and a bustling atmosphere.
• Pearl Harbor National Memorial: Visit the historical site commemorating the attack on Pearl Harbor, including the USS Arizona Memorial.
• Diamond Head State Monument: Hike to the summit for stunning views of Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean.
• North Shore: Experience the famous big wave surfing beaches, such as Banzai Pipeline and Sunset Beach, and the laid-back atmosphere.
• Nā Pali Coast State Park: Hike or take a boat tour to see the dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and lush valleys.
• Waimea Canyon State Park: Explore the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific" with its deep red and green valleys, hiking trails, and scenic lookouts.
• Hanalei Bay: Relax on the beautiful crescent-shaped beach and explore the charming town with its local shops and restaurants.
• Wailua Falls: Visit this picturesque 173-foot waterfall, easily accessible by a short drive.
• Kalaupapa National Historical Park: Learn about the history of the leper colony and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery.
• Halawa Valley: Take a guided cultural tour to see ancient Hawaiian sites and the beautiful Moa'ula and Hipuapua waterfalls.
• Papohaku Beach: Relax on one of Hawaii's largest white-sand beaches, perfect for beachcombing and solitude.
• Hulopoe Bay: Snorkel in the clear waters, watch for dolphins, and enjoy the tide pools.
• Garden of the Gods (Keahiakawelo): Explore this otherworldly landscape with its unique rock formations and colors.
• Shipwreck Beach: Visit this remote beach known for its offshore shipwreck and excellent beachcombing opportunities.

Is Hawaii Safe?

Hawaii is among the safest places to visit in the United States. Despite recent wildfires and volcanic eruptions, Hawaii remains one of the safest tropical destinations in the world.

Is Hawaii Expensive To Visit?

Hawaii can be expensive due to high costs for flights, accommodations, dining, and activities. However, planning ahead and considering alternative options can help make the trip more budget-friendly.

Currency & Exchange in Hawaii

In Hawaii, the official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Currency exchange services are available at airports, banks, and currency exchange offices, but they may charge fees or offer less favorable exchange rates. Most businesses in Hawaii accept major credit cards, and ATMs are widely available for cash withdrawals.

Spoken Languages in Hawaii

English and Hawaiian are the official languages of Hawaii. Besides English and Hawaiian, other languages commonly spoken in Hawaii include Tagalog, Japanese, Ilocano, Cantonese, and Spanish.

How Many Days Are Enough To Visit Hawaii?

Most travelers find that spending at least one week in Hawaii allows for a fulfilling experience. This time frame allows you to explore multiple islands, immerse yourself in the culture, and enjoy various activities without feeling rushed.

What To Do in Hawaii?

• Explore Pearl Harbour: Visit the USS Arizona Memorial and the Pacific Aviation Museum to learn about the history of the 1941 attack.
• Hike Diamond Head: Enjoy breathtaking views of Honolulu and the North Pacific Ocean from the summit of this iconic volcanic cone.
• Go Whale Watching: See northern hemisphere humpback whales in their natural habitat during the December to May season.
• Learn to Surf at Waikiki: Take lessons from experienced instructors and enjoy the gentle waves of this famous beach.
• Visit Volcanoes National Park: Explore active volcanoes, lava flows, and ancient Hawaiian rock carvings on the Big Island.
• Take a Trip to Oahu's North Shore: Experience laid-back villages, surf beaches, and snorkeling spots.
• Choose Your Adventures at Kualoa Ranch: Enjoy horseback riding, ATV tours, e-bikes, zip-lining, and more on this working cattle ranch.
• Other Recommendations
• Snorkeling and Beach Activities: Enjoy snorkeling, sandcastle building, and other beach activities on the beautiful beaches of Hawaii.

When Is The Best Time To Stay In Hawaii?

The best time to visit Hawaii is during the spring or fall when the weather is pleasant, and tourist crowds are smaller. However, Hawaii's tropical climate makes it a year-round destination, offering mild temperatures and occasional rain showers.

• Spring (April to June): Pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and more affordable rates.
• Summer (July to August): Warm temperatures, peak tourist season, and higher prices.
• Fall (September to November): Mild weather, fewer crowds, and good deals on accommodations.
• Winter (December to March): Whale watching season, some rain showers, and busiest time for tourism.

What To Pack For Your Hawaii Trip?

• Clothing and Accessories: Lightweight and breathable clothing, swimwear, comfortable walking shoes or sandals, flip-flops or water shoes, light layers for cooler evenings, wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, light rain jacket or umbrella.
• Personal Care and Health: Sunscreen, necessary medications, toiletries, reusable water bottle.

What To Eat in Hawaii?

• Kalua Pig: Slow-cooked pork in an underground oven, known as an imu, which results in tender and smoky flavors. Best served with rice.
• Poke: Raw fish salad, often made with tuna, and served with rice and various seasonings such as soy sauce, sesame oil, and seaweed.
• Laulau: Steamed taro leaves wrapped around pork, beef, chicken, or fish, traditionally cooked in an imu.
• Lomi Salmon: Raw salmon cured with salt, diced with tomatoes, onions, and chili peppers, offering a vibrant and colorful flavor combination.
• Poi: A staple dish made from taro root, pounded into a sticky pudding, often served with other Hawaiian dishes.
• Spam Musubi: Grilled Spam served over rice, wrapped in seaweed, a popular snack and convenience food.
• Garlic Shrimp: Freshwater shrimp cooked in garlic butter, often served at local eateries like Giovanni’s in Haleiwa.
• Huli Huli Chicken: A traditional Hawaiian dish of chicken cooked in a sweet and sour marinade, often served at luaus and local restaurants.
• Saimin: A popular noodle dish influenced by Chinese and Japanese cuisines, often served with various toppings.
• Loco Moco: A classic Hawaiian comfort food consisting of a hamburger patty, fried egg, and gravy over rice.
• Malasadas: Sweet, deep-fried doughnuts often filled with fruit or chocolate, a popular dessert in Hawaii.
• Shave Ice: A classic Hawaiian treat made from shaved ice and flavored syrups, often served at local shops and markets.

Hawaii Nightlife

• Bars and Pubs: Savor local wines, craft beers, or cocktails at neighborhood spots across Hawaii, from the vibrant streets of Waikiki to the charming towns of Lahaina and Kailua-Kona.
• Rooftop Bars: Take in stunning ocean or city views while enjoying drinks at rooftop venues like Sky Waikiki in Honolulu and Fleetwood's on Front St. in Lahaina.
• Clubs and Nightclubs: Dance the night away to electronic beats or mainstream hits at clubs such as Addiction Nightclub in Honolulu and The District Nightclub in Honolulu.
• Live Music: Experience live performances by local and international artists at venues like Blue Note Hawaii in Honolulu and Charley's Restaurant & Saloon in Paia.