Hawaii is a Pacific archipelago of dramatic volcanoes, emerald valleys, fragrant plumeria, and world-class beaches. Beyond the postcards, Hawaii is a living culture shaped by Native Hawaiian traditions, paniolo (cowboy) history, plantation-era migrations, and modern island life. This page introduces the islands, when to go, how to get around, what it costs, and the essential etiquette to travel responsibly—then points you to our deep-dive guides on beaches, attractions, weather, money, and more.
Quick Overview
- Capital: Honolulu (Oʻahu)
- Major Islands: Oʻahu, Maui, Kauaʻi, Hawaiʻi (Big Island), Lānaʻi, Molokaʻi
- Best For: Beach escapes, hiking, volcano landscapes, surfing, snorkeling, whale watching (seasonal)
- High Season: Mid-December–March & June–August
- Currency: US Dollar (see Hawaii Money)
- Entry & Flights: Direct and connecting flights to Honolulu (HNL) + interisland routes (see Airports & Flights)
- Safety: Generally safe; respect ocean warnings & trails (see Health & Safety)
Why Go to Hawaii
Hawaii balances once-in-a-lifetime landscapes with everyday ease. You can hike into a volcanic crater at sunrise, snorkel a coral-fringed bay at noon, taste farm-fresh poke in the afternoon, and end the day with a perfect sunset on a calm west-facing beach. Each island has a distinct personality—pick one for focus or combine two for contrast.
Islands at a Glance
Oʻahu (Honolulu, Waikīkī & the North Shore)
Best for first-timers. Oʻahu blends city energy with tropical classics: Waikīkī’s surf breaks, Pearl Harbor’s history, and the North Shore’s winter waves. Hiking options range from paved lookouts to ridge trails with sweeping ocean views. Food is a highlight—plate lunch, poke, malasadas, and modern farm-to-table spots.
Maui (Beaches, Haleakalā & the Road to Hāna)
Maui offers luxurious resorts, calm family-friendly beaches, and bucket-list drives. Sunrise above the clouds at Haleakalā feels otherworldly (book reservations). The Road to Hāna curves through waterfalls and bamboo forests—go slow, yield often, and savor the viewpoints.
Kauaʻi (The Garden Isle)
Kauaʻi is lush and cinematic: the cliffs of Nāpali Coast, the rust-red canyons of Waimea, and north-shore beaches with reef-protected lagoons. Expect more rain (and rainbows), fewer crowds than Oʻahu/Maui, and outstanding hiking and kayaking.
Hawaiʻi Island (The Big Island)
In a single day you can see lava fields, black-sand beaches, cloud forests, coffee farms, and star-studded skies near Mauna Kea. Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is the showpiece. Distances are longer here—plan by region (Kona vs. Hilo side).
Lānaʻi & Molokaʻi (Low-key & Unscripted)
For seasoned visitors seeking quiet. Lānaʻi mixes luxe stays with off-road adventures, while Molokaʻi feels deeply local and unhurried. Limited services and slower rhythms are the point—come prepared and with respect.
When to Go
Hawaii is a year-round destination. Winter (mid-Dec–March) brings cooler air, bigger surf (north/west shores), and higher prices; it’s also whale season (best off Maui). Summer (June–August) is warmer and calmer in the ocean but busier. Spring and fall shoulder months deliver the best balance of value, weather, and crowds. For month-by-month tips, see Hawaii Weather.
Top Things to Do
- Beach-hop & snorkel: Find reef-sheltered bays for beginners; choose lifeguarded beaches when possible (see Hawaii Beaches).
- Hike iconic trails: Coastal lookouts, crater rims, valley waterfalls—match trail difficulty to your group and conditions.
- See volcano landscapes: From solidified lava flows to steaming vents, always stay within marked zones.
- Whale watching (seasonal): Peak January–March off Maui and the ʻAuʻau Channel.
- Learn to surf: Beginner breaks and surf schools abound, especially around Waikīkī.
- Eat local: Poke bowls, loco moco, shave ice, malasadas, fresh fruit, and island-grown coffee.
For curated highlights per island, browse Hawaii Attractions and our map.
Culture & Responsible Travel
Aloha is more than “hello”: it’s a way of living with kindness and respect. Visitors are guests—treat people, places, and traditions with care. Many sites are sacred (heiau, burial grounds, cultural landscapes). Stay on marked paths, keep noise low, and never touch or move stones or cultural objects.
- Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash; reef-safe sunscreen only.
- Wildlife: Keep distance from turtles, monk seals, dolphins, whales, and sea birds. No touching or feeding—ever.
- Ocean safety first: Heed lifeguards and posted flags; when in doubt, don’t go out.
- Support local: Choose local guides, food trucks, farmers’ markets, and cultural tours.
Learn a few words in ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi (Hawaiian): Aloha (hello/love), Mahalo (thank you), ʻOhana (family), Kuleana (responsibility). You’ll hear them often.
Getting There & Around
Most visitors arrive via Honolulu International (HNL), with connections to Maui (OGG), Kauaʻi (LIH), and Hawaiʻi Island (KOA/ITO). Interisland flights are frequent; ferries are limited. On Oʻahu you can rely more on ride-hailing and TheBus; on other islands, renting a car provides flexibility (book early in peak seasons). For flight details and tips, see Airports & Flights.
Costs & Trip Planning
Hawaii is one of the USA’s pricier destinations, especially for oceanfront stays and peak travel dates. Save by booking shoulder seasons, staying slightly inland, cooking some meals, and prioritizing free nature days (beaches, hikes, scenic drives). Our breakdowns on cost of living, hotels, and money & payment tips will help you budget realistically.
Health, Safety & Practicalities
- Sun & reef: Use reef-safe mineral sunscreen; reapply often; seek shade midday.
- Ocean: Rip currents and shorebreaks are serious. Check local forecasts and lifeguard posts.
- Hiking: Bring water, grippy footwear, and rain layers; trails can be muddy and slippery.
- Respect closures: If a site or trail is closed, do not enter; it’s for safety and preservation.
For detailed guidance, see Health & Safety.
Essential FAQs
Which island should I choose first? Oʻahu for variety and accessibility; Maui for beaches + Haleakalā; Kauaʻi for hiking; Hawaiʻi Island for volcanoes and dark skies.
How long do I need? A classic first trip is 6–8 nights on one island, or 10–12 nights for two islands.
Do I need cash? Cards are widely accepted, but small bills help at food trucks, farmers’ markets, and parking. See Money.
Is Hawaii good for families? Absolutely—opt for protected lagoons, calm mornings at the beach, and short hikes to waterfalls and lookouts.
