But with so much to see, it’s hard to know how to best spend your time here. That’s why many people turn to a guide book for quick advice on the best beaches, activities, and attractions in Hawaii. High numbers of visitors coming to the major islands every year mean that there are many different guides out there as well.

Let’s take a look at some of the best guide books out there to help you plan your trip and make the most of a magical stay.

How to Use a Guide Book

Just as there is no one way to travel, there is no one way to use a guide book. With that in mind, I would suggest using any of the books you’ll find here as just that – a guide. While they can provide you with some great information and point you in the right direction, the real magic to any trip is when you allow some adventures to develop on their own. 

And Hawaii is certainly full of magic. Put the top attractions and activities you want to see or do while you visit on your itinerary, but be sure to leave some time open just to get out and explore. Ask locals their favorite locations. Learn about the history and culture of the islands. Be more than just a tourist. Step outside of your comfort zone and really get a feel for the place. You’ll be happy you did. 

Best Overall Hawaii Guide Books

These guide books all cover a lot of ground and explore each of the major Hawaiian islands. Any of these will make a good travel companion and are packed full of tips and suggestions to help you enjoy your time here. 

The Big Island Revealed: The Ultimate Guidebook

If you only bring one thing to the Big Island THIS is what you want to bring along. This one book made our first vacation 10 times better. When we created this site to help bring the treasures of the Island to the web, this book was the benchmark. If it’s on the island its in the book. It has the authors’ personality and obviously is their opinion but we found most of their assessments were spot on. Some of the other books below are nice add ons but this has to be the first book you start with in your guidebooks. We know you’ll thank us later.

Lonely Planet Hawaii

Lonely Planet is one of the best-known names in the guide book game for good reason – they always put out quality information that will lead you to unique and memorable destinations all across the world. This guide book is focused on all things Hawaii and is recommended because it takes both a budget and luxury approach to travel here. 

The book features many full-color detailed maps, sample itineraries for each island, and reviews of hotels, restaurants, and a whole lot more. If you only read one guide book before or during your trip to Hawaii, this would be the one. It also provides a good background on the islands’ history and culture, which is essential to understand before coming here. 

Fodor’s Essential Hawaii

This is another excellent guide book for your Hawaiian adventures. A nice feature about this book is that locals wrote a large portion of the content. That means you’ll get genuine insight from the people that live here, not just a summary of other traveler’s experiences. This comes in useful when you want to venture off the beaten path or discover some of the best food or experiences away from the resort crowd. 

It’s also packed full of beautiful photos, over 40 maps, and sample itineraries. You’ll also get a crash course in some Hawaiian phrases to use that can help you show thanks and respect to the locals you meet during your stay. Fodor provides you with another in-depth resource that will give you more than enough to explore throughout this book’s 592 pages. 

Frommer’s Hawaii 2020

This is another option from one of the big names in travel publishing. Frommer’s Hawaii 2020 is a recent edition with plenty of quality information to keep you busy on your trip. It covers a wide range of attractions and activities, from the best beaches and hikes to some fine dining and world-class lodging across all of the major islands. This one is a bit more adventure-oriented with tips for exploring the jungles, oceans, beaches, and forests.

Another highlight of Hawaii 2020 is a section on money-saving tips. This can be useful for any traveler to Hawaii whether you are trying to camp or staying at a 5-star resort. Many maps and itineraries are scattered across the book, and though it lacks in the historical department a bit compared to the other options above, it’s still a useful resource. 

Best Hawaiian Island Specific Guide Books

If you have the chance to visit multiple islands during your trip to Hawaii, consider yourself lucky. If you only have time for a single island, don’t fret, you’re still in for a fantastic experience, and these island-specific guide books can help you out. 

Fodor’s Big Island of Hawaii

The island of Hawaii is also known as The Big Island. It’s by far the largest of the islands and has a smaller population than Oahu or Maui. Fodor’s guide gives you an inside look at all the great activities that can found here. From watching a volcanic eruption at the summit of Mauna Kea to the Kohala Coast’s iconic beaches and everything in between, this book will have you covered. 

The Big Island Revealed: The Ultimate Guidebook

We mentioned it before. It is THE must-have book if you come to the island. Don’t forget this book

Lonely Planet Honolulu Waikiki & O’ahu

O’ahu is the most populated Hawaiian island and is well known for its vibrant nightlife and legendary surf. But there are plenty of other attractions and sights to see across the island as well and this Lonely Planet guide will walk you through some of the best attractions from the city to the sea. You’ll get trusted travel advice, high-quality maps, and reviews of some of the most popular lodging and dining locations. 

The Ultimate Kauai Guidebook: Kauai Revealed 

Kauai is the least populated and oldest island. It has some rugged terrain and hard to access beaches, making it a top destination for active travelers looking for adventure. This guide will give you access to those adventures and much, much more. It’s an accurate insider’s look at majestic Kauai and all of its inherent beauty. It’s one of the least visited major islands, so use the guide book to your advantage if you find yourself here. 

Best Hawaii History Books

I’m going to include a few good books here to serve as a guide to the unique history and culture of the Hawaiian islands. Learning about Hawaii before visiting is thoroughly recommended to provide you with essential background and increased respect. 

Captive Paradise: A History of Hawaii

This is a great look into the history of Hawaii and its current culture. James L. Haley paints a vivid picture of these islands and how they have changed over the years. From the rule of King Kamehameha I to the controversial annexation of Hawaii into the United States, this book is well-written and informative. It’s a highly recommended read for any visitor wishing to understand these islands and their people better. 

Hawaii: A Novel

This a book that is intimidating in size but enlightening in scope. It’s an epic look at the history of Hawaii, as told by James Michener. The book reads like a novel but paints an accurate historical picture of the first settlers of Hawaii with their beliefs and tribulations fueling a journey into unknown seas under unknown stars. It follows this history into more modern times, and even though this was written in 1959, it still holds up strong. 

If you take the time to read a few of these books before your trip to Hawaii, you’ll be better informed and be able to take full advantage of everything the land and sea here have to offer. Be sure to bring at least one of the above along with you as well – a good guidebook is essential reading for every island adventure.  

History of Waipi’o

Waipi’o means ‘curved water’ in Hawaiian and describes the twisting nature of the river that has carved out the valley over eons of heavy rainfall as it winds towards the sea. This region of Hawaii is beyond beautiful, but it also holds an important cultural significance in the history of the Hawaiian people. 

Waipi’o is also known as the Valley of the Kings. The royalty of the Hawaiian Kingdom, known as Ali’i, resided here for many generations. These kings and queens ruled Hawaii and held Waipi’o in great regard. One look at the surroundings here, and you can still easily sense its regal power. 

Ancient legend also states that the end of the valley holds a hidden gateway to the underworld, Lua-O-Milu, where recently departed souls leaped of the jagged cliffs and entered the next realm. This makes Waipi’o an important spiritual location for the people of Hawaii and an integral aspect of their creation story. 

After the Ali’i moved elsewhere, the valley remained heavily populated with Hawaiians who planted taro fields and took advantage of the pristine environment to enjoy happy and healthy lives. A tsunami caused significant damage and wiped out many of the houses and structures in 1946, and the area has only been partially populated with full-time residents. 

Waipi’o Valley Geology

The wonder of Waipi’o is in large part a result of its unique geology. The Waipi’o river has eroded the valley to shape dramatic cliffs, epic waterfalls, and a famous black sand beach. The valley itself takes shape from the slopes of Kohala mountain. Its floor sits at sea level with the surrounding peaks and cliffs shooting skyward in excess of 2000 feet. 

This makes for some amazing lookout points from the valley’s vistas and impressive views when you’re deep in Waipi’o near the river. It is about a mile across and nearly six miles deep – an impressive size for an island attraction. There are five fingers at the back of the valley and these capture rain that falls on the mountain, directing the water into the Waipi’o river and shaping the land on an endless path toward the Pacific. 

What to Do at Waipi’o

There are many good hikes and viewpoints to check out in and around the Waipi’o Valley. You can easily drive to the viewpoints for a quick photo as part of your Big Island adventures, but if you have the time and the energy, a hike into the valley is highly recommended. You can even go on a multi-day backpacking trip for an authentic Hawaiian experience here. 

If you only have a short amount of time to visit the valley, you will definitely want to stop at the Waipi’o Valley Lookout. It’s the perfect spot for a picture, and there is a designated parking and picnic area here for a quick lunch or to soak in the beauty. From the lookout you can see much of the valley and its impressive cliffs. But since you don’t need to hike or drive anywhere off the beaten path to get here, it can be very crowded. 

To beat the crowds and explore the Waipi’o Valley in full, check out any of all of these hikes and sights:

Waipi’o Valley Trail

This is a very popular trail that gives you quick access to the valley floor. You’ll get a taste of the entire valley and have access to both the beach and the river. You’ll also be able to see one of the many impressive waterfalls that cascade from the cliffs. Be prepared for some elevation gain and expect to see a crowd. It’s open year-round and one of the most heavily used trails on the Big Island. The Waipi’o Valley Trail is just under 5 miles out and back. 

Muliwai and Waimanu Valley Trail

For a more adventurous approach to Waipi’o, the Muliwai and Waimanu Valley Trail is highly encouraged. This trail gives you access to some of the most remote regions of the Big Island and will leave you feeling like you’ve taken a step back into time. It is an aggressive hike to accomplish in a single day, but possible if you are in shape and well-prepared. The trail is over 15 miles long and has some serious ascents and elevation gain. If you’re up for it, you’ll get an unreal view of the valley and up close and personal with the waterfalls. 

Driving/Hiking the Access Road

There is a road that goes down to the black sand beach. But unless you have a 4-wheel drive vehicle with good clearance and experience driving off-road, I wouldn’t recommend it. It features 25-40% grades, and if you don’t know how steep that is, you shouldn’t drive it! The hike is very doable, and you might even be able to hitchhike back out if you want to. There are also tours that will take you down the road. 

Black Sand Beach

The black sand beach at the end of the Waipi’o River is beautiful and one of the top attractions here. Once you reach the valley floor, the beach is easily within reach by turning right and following the river. At the end, you’ll find the black sands – just be careful if you cross the river if it’s high and know that the currents and surf in the waters can be dangerous. 

Kaluahine Falls

Once you make it to the black sand beach, you might be able to catch a glimpse of a beautiful cascade arching into the sea in Kaluahine Falls. I say ‘might’ because the waterfall doesn’t always run and is typically only visible after heavy rainfall. This is a truly wonderful sight to behold if you’re lucky enough to visit Waipi’o on a rainy day. It should also provide the incentive to get to the valley floor even when it’s wet outside. 

What to Bring to Waipi’o Valley

If you don’t plan on doing anything other than the lookout, you won’t need to bring much. Remember your camera and pack a picnic if you want to use the tables available in the parking lot. 

If you want to venture to the valley floor or go on any of the other amazing hikes, be sure to bring plenty of water, some snacks, and your swimsuit. It’s also a good idea to bring a rain jacket or umbrella. Bug spray to keep the mosquitos away is nice to have in case they are bad. 

If you are going on a multi-day backpack, bring your essentials, and don’t forget a first aid kit. It’s a remote section of the Big Island, and it can take a while for rescuers to reach you in case of an emergency. 

Final Thoughts

If you are on the Big Island, Waipi’o Valley is a highly recommended stop. It’s not as well-known as some of the other major attractions on the island, but it’s easily as impressive. Its rugged and remote nature keeps the crowds away a bit as well. If you want to tackle some serious hiking and get a taste of wild Hawaii, Waipi’o will deliver.   

The summit of Mauna Kea rises to an impressive 13,796 feet. What’s more impressive is that this is technically the tallest mountain on Earth when you consider another 18,900 feet of the mountain hides below sea level. This totals to a towering 32,696 feet, nearly ¾ of a mile taller than Mount Everest. Mauna Kea is a cinder cone volcano which is the simplest type and takes the classic dome with a crater on top shape.  

The Island of Hawaii, otherwise known as the Big Island, owes its productive natural resources, diverse ecosystems, and storied past to Mauna Kea. Lava flows from the peaks of this still active volcano continue to mold the island, pushing it ever further upward towards the endless unknown.     

The Importance of Mauna Kea on Hawaii

Mauna Kea is a sacred place for native Hawaiians. According to tradition, Mauna Kea is considered the kapuna, or firstborn, of the Earth Mother Papahānaumoku and the Sky Father Wākea. This mountain holds much power and is the heart and soul of Hawaii and the Big Island. While Honolulu may be the state’s current capital, true local history places Mauna Kea at the center and beginning of it all. 

The Hawaiian Islands are made of various volcanos, some dormant and some active, that have very literally shaped the landscape here. From Haleakala on Maui to Mauna Loa, Kilauea, and Kohala on the Big Island, these volcanoes rise like ever-present guardians of island knowledge. They are an integral part of their historical and cultural significance, and none of these hold as much esteem, power, and importance as Mauna Kea.  

The mountain also is an important place for astronomical research and other types of scientific study. The clear skis found at the summit of Mauna Kea make for some of the best stargazing opportunities in the world. A lack of light pollution and 360-degree views make it a valuable location where the University of Hawaii and other organizations study the skies. Several Mauna Kea observatories provide an unmatched view towards the heavens and a search into the world beyond. A thirty meter telescope and a project surrounding its use, known as TMT, has fueled ongoing study and development on the mountain.  

Tradition and modern science are in conflict here. Many native Hawaiians view the development of the summit as a direct threat to their history and culture. Governor David Ige has attempted to approach the situation with a sense of balance, but protests and demonstrations have occurred in defiance of Mauna Kea’s development. The Gov is relatively popular, but his support of TMT and the development of the summit has been met with mixed reactions.   

How to See Mauna Kea

As mentioned earlier, you can see Mauna Kea from just about anywhere on the Big Island, but to really get a sense of the grand scope of the mountain, you’ll want to dive into its heart. The two major cities on the Big Island, Kona and Hilo, make good starting points for a trip to Mauna Kea. Hilo is on the west side of the Big Island, Kona is on the east. You can reach the sites and summit of Mauna Kea by car from either of these towns within a few hours, and the excursion makes for a recommended day trip while you’re here. 

You’ll want to make sure to bring several layers and be prepared for rapidly changing weather caused by the high altitude. This can lead to altitude sickness, which can cause headaches, nausea, and fatigue. Be sure to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated, as this can help with the effects of elevation. Ibuprofen or other over-the-counter pain relievers can help with headaches.

Mauna Kea is also sometimes known as the White Mountain because it does actually snow here. If you’re lucky enough (or unlucky, depending on how you see it) to see Mauna Kea on a snow day, be sure to drive carefully because the access road to the top can get slick. And keep an eye out for Poli’ahu, one of the four goddesses of the snow. You can even ski or snowboard at the summit if there’s enough snow. 

Check out these other recommended sites and stops on a visit to Manau Kea:

Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station

The Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station is a good starting point for any trip to the summit. There is a parking lot where you can get out and take a good look at the volcano and surrounding areas. There are also bathrooms and a few places to sit down for a picnic lunch. The information station has been closed because of the coronavirus pandemic, so check its website before visiting. 

Saddle Road

Saddle Road, also known as Hawaii Route 200, spans the center of the Big Island and goes from Hilo to Waimea. This road takes you directly between the two major volcanoes of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. If you don’t have the ambition or time to make it to their summits, this route makes for a good day trip that will give you a long view of each. You’ll see many diverse terrains and various ecosystems through the drive as you go from sea level to over 6000 feet.  

Lake Waiau

Lake Waiau is a small little lake found below the summit of Mauna Kea. It sits perched at an elevation of 13,020 feet, and there are a few different hikes you can take to reach its shores. It’s the highest lake on the entire Pacific Rim but isn’t much to look at other than that. An easy day hike if you want to stretch your legs after a drive, but it’s not a must-do activity.

Mauna Kea Summit

The summit of Mauna Kea is a top attraction for any visitor. You’ll get amazing views and feel the inherent power and beauty that this location holds for native Hawaiians and tourists alike. The drive takes about 2 hours, and you’ll want to be prepared for a high elevation environment, as mentioned earlier. The summit is open to visitors during daylight hours only, and you’ll need a 4WD vehicle to drive beyond the visitors center. But it’s a magical place that is well worth the effort. Be sure to respect this sacred land and leave it as you found it. 

The state of Hawaii did not allow visitors for the first portion of the pandemic, limiting the case count and death toll from the virus. Being an isolated island chain in the middle of the Pacific, Hawaii has limited health care facilities to deal with widespread infection. Luckily, the restrictions imposed by the Hawai Department of Health and other health officials have kept Hawaiian residents reasonably safe compared to other regions of the US and the world. 

As vaccinations begin to roll out and the situation improves, the reopening of Hawaii has started. On October 15, 2020, the state began the Hawaii Safe Travels Program to allow visitors so long as they took part in a trusted testing system and produce a negative test before arrival. This program has been effective, but it has also been evolving with slight changes in the rules and regulations required if you want to enjoy a much-needed escape to Hawaii. 

Let’s dive in and examine everything you need to know to travel to Hawaii during the Pandemic.  

Coronavirus in Hawaii

Overall, coronavirus cases in Hawaii have been lower than in the mainland and other countries. Heavily enforced travel restrictions are a key part of this. As of this writing, all of the Hawaiian Islands have combined for a total of 26,846 COVID-19 cases. 7% of these cases, just under 2000, have required hospitalization. The death toll is lower here, as well. Most cases have been on the island of Oahu, the main population center and home to the capital of Honolulu. 

The numbers are small compared to some cities in the US, where they have seen a daily case count higher than the total for the entire state of Hawaii. New cases have been falling lately, coinciding with increased vaccinations and Hawaii residents following recommendations laid out by the Department of Health (DOH) and CDC, including social distancing, wearing face masks, and getting a COVID-19 test when possibly exposed or potential symptoms are seen.

Before looking at how you can travel to Hawaii during the pandemic, it’s essential to understand the unique nature of the island resources and why you need to respect the regulations that have been put into place. 

First off, there are a small number of hospital beds available. Kauai, one of the least populated islands, only has 9 ICU beds. Hawaii simply can’t manage a large-scale outbreak to the same effectiveness as larger states and cities. That’s why negative test results are crucial before you board your flight. 

Second, if you don’t follow the travel testing program or the 10-day quarantine required without a test result, you will be arrested, fined, and sent back to where you came from. They are not messing around about it. Aloha extends to every traveler here, but you won’t get the chance to experience it if you break those rules.   

Reopening – How to Travel to Hawaii During the Pandemic

The main thing you need to know to travel to Hawaii during the pandemic is that a negative COVID-19 test result from one of the approved testing partners in the Hawaii Safe Travels Program must be taken within 72-hours from the last leg of your flight. The major islands of Oahu, Hawaii, Maui, and Kauai all have slightly different regulations that we’ll take a look at below. 

When reopening began, there was a mandatory 14-day quarantine regardless of testing. Right now, it’s a 10-day quarantine for anyone who doesn’t produce a negative test result, in line with recommendations from the CDC. You need to have your quarantine arrangements figured out before arrival, and your test result needs to come in before you step onto the last leg of your flight. It also needs to be taken with 72 hours of that last leg’s departure. 

No matter if you come from another state in the US or a different country, you have to follow the same set of rules. The Hawaiian Tourism Authority is a useful resource for international travelers and keeps up to date with any changing rules and regulations.   

Oahu and Honolulu Travel Restrictions 

Oahu is a major hub for travelers, thanks to Honolulu International Airport. It sees the most visitors and has the largest population of all the islands. It also has seen the largest number of COVID-19 cases. Proof of Negative COVID-19 test is required from a state-approved trusted testing partner. The test result must be taken within 72 hours of the final leg of departure. A 10-day quarantine is required for anyone without a test result.  

Maui Travel Restrictions 

Maui is another popular island well known for its world-class resorts and amazing beaches. It also has a major airport with domestic and international flights arriving daily. Proof of Negative COVID-19 test is required from a state-approved trusted testing partner. The test result must be taken within 72 hours of the final leg of departure. A 10-day quarantine is required for anyone without a test result. Maui also now has a mandatory contact tracing requirement for all travelers. The islands of Lanai and Molokai fall under Maui county regulations as well.  

Hawaii Island (The Big Island) Travel Restrictions 

Hawaii island, also commonly known as the Big Island, is another major island and is heavily visited by tourists who want to see a volcano in action and many other unique attractions. Proof of Negative COVID-19 test is required from a state-approved trusted testing partner. The test result must be taken within 72 hours of the final leg of departure. A 10-day quarantine is required for anyone without a test result.

Kauai Travel Restrictions

Kauai is the least populated of the major islands and has the least resources available to fight coronavirus. The island has its own regulations due to limited resources and the need to keep residents here safe. To travel to Kauai, you will be subject to a 10-day quarantine regardless of a negative test result. This means you can’t test your way out of it and need to make arrangements for those ten days if you want to explore the rest of the island. 

Inter-Island Travel Restrictions   

Inter-island travel is possible but is subject to basically the same rules as flights coming into the islands. Hawaii residents wishing to travel to another island must take a COVID-19 test within 72 hours of their flight and will be required to quarantine for 10-days if not. Kauai has a mandatory quarantine in place for inter-island travel as well.  

Additional Considerations 

The state of Hawaii has taken a pretty strict approach to the pandemic. And it’s been working. People wear masks in public and at the beach here, and you will be arrested and fined if you don’t follow the travel regulations outlined above. If you do, you can have a great island getaway that will be unique because there simply aren’t as many travelers to the islands right now. 

Here are a few extra tips to help you get things in order for your potential trip. 

• Remember that you must have your test taken before boarding the last leg of your departure. This means that if your flight leaves New York at 7 AM EST with a connecting flight in LA at 5 PM PST, your test needs to be taken 72 hours before that final flight. 
• Not every test is accepted in the safe travels program, and just because you have an official-looking laboratory reporting paper doesn’t guarantee it will be accepted. It needs to be a trusted partner with the Hawaii Safe Travels Program. 
• If you want to be extra careful, you can quarantine for 10-14 days before your trip to ensure you’ll have no issues with testing. I’d say that’s better than having to quarantine upon arrival!

No matter which island you’re flying to, let this be your complete guide to Hawaiian airports. Each of the Islands has a dedicated airport, and if you want to catch an inter-island flight during your stay, it’s good to know how to navigate to the Big Island and beyond. Below we will look at all of the Hawaiian airports you might travel to or through during your trip. Traveling here is pretty straightforward, but it’s good to know about each airport ahead of time so you can make the most of your trip.   

Hawaiian Airports

There are five major airports in the state of Hawaii and a handful of smaller strips to catch a flight from between islands or to access more remote locations. If you are coming from the mainland US, you can choose where you want to land between the major islands. The last leg of your flight will most likely depart from a big west coast city like San Francisco or Los Angeles. If you are an international traveler, you will probably land in Honolulu International Airport on Oahu, the busiest airport in Hawaii. From here, you can catch inter-island flights to whatever island you’d like. 

Big Island Airport

There are two major airports on the island of Hawaii, commonly called the Big Island. If you are planning a trip here, the Big Island is not to be missed. Many of the top attractions, like Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Mauna Kea, can be found here. Getting to the Big Island from any other Hawaiian island is pretty straightforward. 

Both of the major airports here are a short 35-40 minute flight from Honolulu. Depending on which side of the island you want to explore, you may want to choose one of the Big Island’s airports over another. If you are headed to a northern destination like Kohala or Waimea, either option on Hawaii island will be about the same distance away. 

Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole aka Kona International Airport (KOA)

Kona International Airport (KOA) is the largest airport on the Big Island and where most visitors arrive. It’s found on the western side of Hawaii, and the runways are in the middle of a lava field, making for an impressive ”welcome to the islands” moment if you have a window seat. This airport has a rustic throwback vibe in that you’ll step off your plane and into the fresh island air from stairs that descend to the tarmac rather than a jetway. KOA is just north of the town of Kailua-Kona, a great starting point for your stay. 

Hilo International Airport (ITO)

Hilo International Airport (ITO) is on the east side of Hawaii. This airport doesn’t see as much traffic as Kona but has many daily flights that arrive and depart from or to the other Hawaiian islands. It doesn’t have as much charm as KOA but will still give you all of the basics you’d expect in a modern airport. ITO has two runways, a large terminal, and easy access to Hilo and the surrounding areas. 

Oahu Airports

Oahu is the most populated island in the state of Hawaii and sees the highest number of visitors. Honolulu is the largest city here and is a central hub for travelers, whether they stay on this island or catch a quick flight to any of the others. 

Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)

Also often called Honolulu International Airport, HNL is the largest airport in the islands. It sees incoming and outgoing flights around the globe daily. You will see amazing views of Oahu’s southern side and famous landmarks such as Diamond Head as you prepare for landing here. If it’s your first time in Hawaii, you’ll most likely have a least a pit stop in Honolulu, so be sure to check out all of the great attractions that Waikiki and the surrounding areas have to offer. 

Maui Airports

There are three airports on Maui – one major and two smaller options. Unless you are island hopping or on a sightseeing flight, you will probably only visit the largest of the three (OGG). Kapalua Airport (JHM) serves the northern portion of Maui, while Hana Airport (HNM) serves the remote southern part. You’ll find everything you need in Kapalua but be sure to plan ahead if you fly to Hana as car rentals and other amenities are in limited supply. 

Kahului Airport (OGG)

Kahului Airport is the second busiest airport in Hawaii, but you will feel anything but rushed when you first arrive here. Both international and inter-island flights are served at OGG, and there are plenty of amenities, including extensive rental car options, restaurants, and gift shops. It feels small but has everything you need and offers the islands’ immediate charm that every airport here seems to possess.  

Kauai Airports

Kauai is the least populated of the major islands but still a great destination that offers rugged beauty and untouched coastlines. It’s a popular spot for the adventurous type and will give you a glimpse of wild Hawaii. 

Lihue Airport (LIH)

The only larger airport in Kauai, LIH is found in a picturesque landing location that gives you a glimpse of this amazing island as you get ready to land. It has been remodeled in recent years but still has an island aesthetic that respects the history and culture of Hawaii and its people. It’s small and rural, just the surrounding areas you will visit here.   

Smaller Island Airports

The two lesser-visited islands of Molokai and Lanai each have their own airports. These are smaller and don’t see many flights during a single day. They also serve smaller planes and charters as part of inter-island travel. Molokai Airport (MKK) is centrally located on the island and provides breathtaking views of the steep mountains that dominate the island. Lanai Airport (LNY) serves the residents and visitors who live and travel here. It’s a few miles southwest of Lanai City.  

Getting to the Big Island

You can access the Big Island of Hawaii by either a direct flight to one of the major airports here or by an inter-island option. There are some direct flights from various locations across the world that will drop you off at Kona International Airport, and if you are flying from the mainland US, you can usually fly direct to the Big Island. If you are on a budget flight or coming from an international location, you might have a short connecting flight from Honolulu. 

So, where do you start? And how should you get around? 

Mapping out your adventures before arriving can help you make the most out of your trip. If you don’t plan ahead, you’re likely to miss out on some of the top Big Island attractions, both well-known and off the beaten path. 

Below is a mapped-out approach to give you some ideas and suggestions during your stay. Whether you have a few days or a few weeks in paradise, you’ll want to be sure to see as much as you can.

Short Stay Maps

There are two major airports on the Big Island. You will more than likely fly into either Kona or Hilo. These are the largest cities on the island, and both make for good starting points for your island experience. Kona is on the west side. It has some great beaches nearby and is more tourist-focused. Hilo is on the windward east side. It is the major commercial center of the island and also gets more rain.

If your trip is short, sticking to the side of the island you are staying on can be a better approach. There are amazing sites to see all over, but you’ll be hard-pressed to see them all in only a few days. You can technically drive around the entire island in 3-4 hours, but spending an entire vacation inside your vehicle is never ideal.  

East Side Itinerary – Kona to Kilauea 

Most visitors arrive in Kona and start their Big Island adventures here. One suggested route to take advantage of a short trip are the sites between Kona and Kilauea. This will take you around the southern tip of Hawaii and into the heart of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which is a must-see destination on the Big Island.  

Here are some top stops on the Kona to Kilauea route: 

• Manini’Owali Beach (Kua Bay) – Beautiful, picturesque beach with great swimming when the waves are calm. 

• White Sands Beach Park (Magic Sands) – Another great beach near Kona that sometimes has sand and sometimes rock, hence the Magic Sands moniker. 

• Kona Coffee Living History Farm – Not just for coffee lovers, this is a recommended stop in Captain Cook that showcases the history and popularity of Kona Coffee. 

• Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park – See some ancient Hawaiin ruins and get a glimpse into the past at this stop that is sure to please history buffs and beach lovers alike. 

• Hawaii Volcanoes National Park – A definite must-see stop on any trip to the Big Island, this is your best chance to see an active volcano and experience the raw and rugged beauty that is Hawaii. 

West Side Itinerary – Hilo, Mauna Kea, and Beyond

For your western Big Island travels, be sure to bring a raincoat or umbrella as it rains around 127 inches every year in Hilo. While that may seem soggy, this makes the island’s windward side lush, green, and very much alive. Despite the rain, there is still plenty of fun to be had and excellent sites to see. 

Here are some stops around Hilo and the western side of the Big Island:

• Mauna Kea – This is technically the highest mountain in the world (from sea-floor to summit), and you can drive up to its 13,803-foot summit. This is a sacred spot for Hawaiians so be respectful of the land when you visit. 

• Saddle Road (Hawaii Route 200) – One of the best sightseeing drives on the island, Saddle Road brings you right between the two major volcanic peaks on Hawaii. You’ll see rainforest and desert, alongside great views of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. 

• Akaka Falls (Rainbow Falls) – This is a stunning rainforest waterfall that will surely leave you breathless and in wonder. It’s a great spot for a picnic and is easily accessible for young and old alike. 

• Kaumana Caves – If you’re feeling adventurous, exploring a stretch of this 25-mile lava tube is sure to satisfy. Only 2 miles of the tubes are open to the public, but that’s still more than enough spelunking for the average visitor. 

• Lili’uokalani Gardens – These magical gardens are right in the middle of downtown Hilo, making for a great way to start or end your trip. Many amazing trees, plants, and other flora thrive gracefully within the manicured park. 

Long Stays Map

If you are lucky enough to have a longer stay on the Big Island, I would suggest visiting any and all of the sites mentioned above. You can take your time exploring each of these recommended options, taking them in at your own pace. Mixing up where you stay can also give you a feel for the differences between the Kona-side and Hilo-side attractions. 

But since no map of Hawaii would be complete without a look at some surf, sand, and sun, be sure to check out as many beaches as you can while you’re here as well. Here’s a look at some of the best beaches on the Big Island to add to your itinerary for an afternoon or a few days. 

• Mauna Kea Beach – This is a stunning beach that conjures up all things Hawaii and is not to be missed. It’s a crescent-shaped, white sand treasure with crystal clear water that stretches for nearly a quarter-mile. 

• Waialea Bay – Another very popular Big Island beach, Waialea Bay is easy to get to and a great place to see marine wildlife. Snorkeling and scuba diving are popular here for this reason, and the sandy bay offers safe family swimming in the summer months. 

• Hapuna Beach – This is a large beach, so there is always room to spread out and set up, even on a crowded day. Another good spot for swimming and any other sort of beach activity you can think of. Hapuna is surrounded by abundant plant life, making it another picture-worthy Big Island destination.  

• Punalu’u (Black Sand Beach) – While this isn’t your typical enticing soft sand style beach, Punalu’u is still a wonder to behold. Turtles can often be found sunbathing with visitors, and there are a lot of hikes nearby. It’s not a great place to swim or snorkel because of strong currents and low visibility. 

• Papakolea (Green Sand Beach) – This is a recommended destination for the adventurous at heart. It is a remote beach that involves a 5-mile hike, but if you’re up for it, you’ll be surely rewarded. A good spot for snorkeling and the green sand is impressive on its own!

There is an almost endless amount of exciting sights to see and adventures to be had on the Big Island. No matter if you have two days or two months here, you can make the most out of your stay by visiting any of the recommended spots mapped out above. The islands are full of beauty and wonder and are sure to deliver a magical experience for all those who visit.