goexplorethecrazyWelcome to my Hawaii travel blog! Whether you are planning your tropical getaway or simply dreaming of island life, I have got you covered. Over 12 unforgettable days, I explored three of its breathtaking islands – Maui, Oahu, and the Big Island. Here, I’ll share the highlights, tips, and links to my detailed itineraries for Maui, Oahu, and the Big Island, this guide covers everything you need to know.
Why Hawaii?
Hawaii is a slice of paradise surrounded by the vast Pacific Ocean and is more than a destination and an experience for a lifetime. Board a non-stop flight from Denver or Phoenix, and you are only about 9 hours from paradise. Once there, lose yourself in the island’s natural wonders more than 200 beaches, spectacular waterfalls, volcanoes, and lush forests. With its warm aloha spirit and natural beauty, it’s the perfect destination for relaxation and adventure alike.
There are two ways to enjoy the island: either stay at an all-inclusive resort and relax in the tropical weather, or explore every part of it and see all it has to offer.
Traveling with an infant, we wanted to stay flexible and take plenty of breaks while exploring. We also set aside time to relax at an all-inclusive resort on one of the islands. We chose a few hikes that were easy to do with an infant in a baby carrier.
Best Time To Visit
The ideal time to visit is during Spring (April to early June) or fall (September to November) when the weather is perfect and tourist crowds are thinner. Summer is peak season, ideal for families but pricier. Winter is great for Whale watching
Visa/Currency:
YES, You don’t need a visa to visit Hawaii! Since Hawaii is part of the United States, U.S. citizens can travel freely without a visa and other travelers with U.S. visas can visit Hawaii without any additional requirements. International travelers should check the visa requirements based on their home country.
The local currency is the U.S. Dollar (USD), and credit cards are widely accepted.
Trip Budget(Per Person / Per Day) :
Flights: 600$ – 1200$ (Based on season)
Accommodation: $150 – $500 per night (depending on the island and type)
Food: 20$ – 60$ per meal
Activities: 50-300$
Island hopping: 100-200$
Rental car: 50-70$
Gas: 50-80$
For a 12-day trip, Our total expenses were approximately $10,000 for two adults and one infant. This included food, accommodation, flights, car rentals, gas, inter-island travel, and activities.
Tips for your Hawaiian Adventure :
Plan Ahead: Book accommodations and activities early to avoid last-minute surprises (Our travel plans were spontaneous, and we couldn’t secure the best prices on Maui, where we first landed, resulting in a $300 per night)
Rent a Car: It’s the best way to explore the islands at your own pace. (Rent a car, but make sure you choose an all-wheel drive car also the driver should be very experienced with island driving. Many of the roads are narrow and not well-paved, making it tough to handle oncoming traffic. There are also narrow passages with rocks and steep drops on both sides. One of the most dangerous roads is Kahekili, which I read about before visiting, and it really scared me. It’s best to return to the hotel before dark to stay safe.)
Pack Light: Comfortable clothing, swimwear, and hiking shoes are a must.
Stay Hydrated: The tropical sun can be intense. Always carry water with you.
Respect Nature: Stick to marked trails and avoid disturbing wildlife.
Embrace local cuisine: Don’t Banana bread, shave ice, seafood, coconut water, and fresh island fruits
Stay flexible: Weather conditions can change quickly, so have backup plans.
Inter-Island Travel Tips
Fly Between Islands for Quick Travel:
Flights between the islands usually take just 30-45 minutes. Hawaiian Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Mokulele Airlines are the best options for inter-island flights. Hawaiian Airlines offers many flights each day, while Southwest Airlines has affordable fares and allows free checked bags. Mokulele Airlines is perfect for shorter trips with scenic views. There are multiple flights throughout the day, so it’s a good idea to book morning flights. This gives you more options later if you need to change your schedule. If you’re traveling with checked luggage, Southwest is a great choice since you don’t have to pay extra for bags and can cancel up to 30 minutes before your flight. For other airlines, make sure to check their baggage fees before booking.
Airports You’ll Use:
Maui: Kahului Airport (OGG) is the main airport for flights to and from Maui.
O’ahu: The main airport is Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) in Honolulu.
Big Island: You’ll fly into either Kona International Airport (KOA) or Hilo International Airport (ITO), depending on where you’re staying.
Itinerary:
Here’s just a sneak peek of what’s ahead! Click the links above to explore each island’s adventures in more detail. I’m also sharing my Google route to guide you, so be sure not to miss any part of the island blogs.
Maui: Day 1-5
O’ahu: Days 6-9
Big Island: Days 10-13
What to pack:
Swimwear
Cover-ups
Activewear
Dressy Outfits
Bug Repellents
Sunscreen|
Umbrella
Baby carrier
Beach bags
Sunglasses
Baby food and snacks
Sun hats
Strollers
Travel Documents
Medication/First-aid kit
Camera
Powerbanks
Waterproof Phone case
This list will help you stay organized and ensure you don’t forget any essential items for your tropical getaway!
Now that you have all the essential information to plan your dream Hawaiian getaway, it’s time to dive into the detailed day-by-day travel plans for each island! For a more in-depth look at our journey, including personalized Google route tips, daily adventures, and recommendations, be sure to check out the dedicated posts for each island below:
- 5 Unforgettable Days in Maui: Top Experiences You Can’t Miss
Explore everything Maui has to offer with daily tips and my personal travel route suggestions. Read the full Maui itinerary - 8 Must-Do Adventures in O’ahu: Exploring the Heart of Hawaii
Discover the best things to do in O’ahu, from breathtaking hikes to cultural landmarks, with detailed routes for easy navigation. Read the full O’ahu itinerary - 3 Epic Days on the Big Island: Volcanoes, Beaches, and More
Get a complete breakdown of our Big Island adventure with route recommendations for exploring its diverse landscapes.
By following these detailed itineraries, you’ll ensure a smooth and unforgettable journey across the islands. Click through to each blog post for the ultimate guide to your island-hopping experience!
