Planning a trip to Hawaii? You’re in for a tropical dream filled with unforgettable landscapes, thrilling excursions, and cultural treasures.
This Hawaii tours guide brings together the most exciting experiences across the islands, from volcano hikes to glass-bottom boat rides.
Whether you’re seeking family-friendly Hawaii tours, outdoor adventures in Hawaii, or simply exploring new Hawaii vacation ideas, we’ve gathered the best options for 2025.
So grab your lei and let’s dive into the best Hawaii tours to elevate your next island escape.
501Places: 100 Best Hawaii Tours
Hawaii Travel Guide
If you’re planning your first or fifth visit to the islands, this all-in-one Hawaii Travel Guide is your key to crafting the perfect trip.
From cultural gems and iconic sights to unforgettable tours across each island, it brings everything together in one place for easy inspiration and planning.
Read the full feature in Ultimate Hawaii Travel Guide 2025: Top Tours & Insider Tips
Things to Do in Kaanapali
| 1. Ka'anapali Luxury Sunset Cocktail Sail | 2. West Maui Half Day Snorkel from Ka’anapali Beach | 3. Kaanapali Beach 4-hour Snorkel w/ BBQ Lunch & Open Bar |
|---|---|---|
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| Start: Ka'anapali Beach | Start: Ka'anapali Beach | Start: Ka'anapali Beach |
| Time: 4:00 PM | Time: 9:00 AM | Time: 10:30 AM |
| Duration: 2 hours | Duration: 4 hours | Duration: 2 hours |
| Highlights: Luxurious sunset sailing, unlimited drinks & scenic views of West Maui coastline. | Highlights: Snorkel vibrant reefs, spot sea turtles & dolphins, expert-guided eco-tour. | Highlights: BBQ lunch, open bar, snorkel at famous sites, family-friendly adventure. |
Kaanapali Beach isn’t just a destination — it’s an experience. From cliff diving at Black Rock to dinner cruises at sunset, these hand-picked activities bring you the best things to do in Kaanapali for every type of traveler.
Explore your options in The 10 Best Things to Do in Kaanapali Beach [2025 Reviews]
Iao Valley Tour
| 1. Best of Maui Tour: Sips, Sites and Bites with Lunch | 2. Helicopter Tour of Molokai and Maui | 3. Maui Historical Island Tour |
|---|---|---|
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| Start: Hotel pickup, Maui | Start: Kahului Airport | Start: Hotel pickup, Maui |
| Time: 6:00 AM | Time: Various | Time: 8:00 AM |
| Duration: 9 hours | Duration: 55 minutes | Duration: 8 hours |
| Highlights: See Haleakala sunrise, Iao Valley Needle, and explore local food, culture, and quaint towns on this comprehensive tour. | Highlights: Aerial views of Molokai sea cliffs, Halawa Valley waterfalls, lush Iao Valley, and Maui's stunning coastline. | Highlights: Immerse in Maui’s history, visiting sacred Iao Valley, Maui Tropical Plantation, & Lahaina's charming Front Street. |
Journey into Maui’s lush interior on an Iao Valley tour, where cloud-kissed peaks and winding trails tell stories of Hawaiian legend and resilience. These tours combine nature, history, and soul-stirring views in one breathtaking experience.
See the full range in The 7 Best Maui Iao Valley Tours [2025 Reviews]
Oahu Pineapple Plantation Tour
| 1. Pearl Harbor, Dole Plantation & Polynesian Center | 2. Cozy Oahu Circle Island Tour + Byodo-In Temple | 3. North Shore Dole Pineapple Farm Tour |
|---|---|---|
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| Start: Waikiki Hotels | Start: Waikiki Hotels | Start: Waikiki Hotels |
| Time: 6:30 AM | Time: 7:30 AM | Time: 6:55 AM |
| Duration: 10 hours | Duration: 9 hours | Duration: 7 hours |
| Highlights: Dole Plantation, Polynesian Cultural Center, Pearl Harbor history. | Highlights: TByodo-In Temple visit, Pineapple fields, small group luxury. | Highlights: Exclusive North Shore farm experience, fresh pineapple tasting. |
Step into Hawaii’s sweetest story on an Oahu pineapple plantation tour. From plantation train rides to juicy tastings and local lore, these experiences offer a delicious slice of the island’s agricultural past and present.
Find the top choices in The 8 Best Oahu Pineapple Plantation Tours [2025 Reviews]
Best Haleakala Sunrise Tour
| 1. Haleakala Sunrise Spectacular | 2. Maui Haleakala Sunrise Downhill Bike Tour | 3. Majestic Haleakala Sunrise Tour |
|---|---|---|
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| Start: Hotel pickup, Maui | Start: Mountain Riders Office, Maui | Start: Hotel pickup, Maui |
| Time: 2:30 AM–3:00 AM | Time: 3 AM daily | Time: 2:30 AM–3:00 AM |
| Duration: 8 hours | Duration: 8 hours | Duration: 8 hours |
| Highlights: Legendary sunrise, local breakfast. | Highlights: Top-rated downhill bike experience. | Highlights: Majestic views, easy hotel pickup. |
Rise early and witness the sky light up in dazzling color from above the clouds. A best Haleakala sunrise tour brings you to the summit of Maui’s sacred volcano for one of the most breathtaking moments in the Pacific.
Explore all options in The 7 Best Haleakala Sunrise Tours [2025 Reviews]
Molokini and Turtle Town Snorkeling
| 1. Molokini Crater and South Maui Coast Adventure from Kihei | 2. Molokini Crater Zodiak Adventure Snorkel and Turtle Cove Swim | 3. Molokini and Turtle Town Snorkeling Adventure Aboard Malolo from Ma’alaea Harbor |
|---|---|---|
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| Start: Kihei Boat Ramp | Start: Maalaea Harbor | Start: Maalaea Harbor |
| Time: 7:00 AM | Time: 7:30 AM | Time: 7:30 AM |
| Duration: 5 hours | Duration: 4 hours | Duration: 5.5 hours |
| Highlights: Small-group adventure, pristine reefs, sea turtles & stunning views. | Highlights: Zodiac speedboat, snorkeling Molokini & Turtle Cove, expert crew. | Highlights: Spacious Malolo boat, excellent value, family-friendly, lunch incl. |
Snorkelers and sea lovers, this one’s for you. These Molokini and Turtle Town snorkeling tours showcase Maui’s most famous underwater gems — a crescent-shaped volcanic crater with crystal visibility, and a peaceful bay frequented by gentle green sea turtles.
Explore the full list in 10 Best Molokini and Turtle Town Snorkeling Tours [2025 Reviews]
Honolulu Parasailing
| 1. Honolulu Xtreme Parasail | 2. Hawaiian Parasail | 3. Parasailing in Waikiki Hawaii |
|---|---|---|
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| Start: Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu | Start: Ala Wai Harbor, Waikiki | Start: Ala Wai Harbor, Waikiki |
| Time: 9:30 AM, 11:45 AM, 1:45 PM | Time: 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM | Time: 9:00 AM, 1:00 PM |
| Duration: 1 hour | Duration: 1 hour | Duration: 1 hour |
| Highlights: Soar high above Waikiki and enjoy stunning views. | Highlights: Thrilling experience with scenic Waikiki views. | Highlights: Panoramic vistas of Waikiki and surroundings. |
There’s nothing quite like gliding above Waikiki’s turquoise shoreline. These Honolulu parasailing experiences offer a unique and exhilarating way to see the city from the sky, with gentle lift-offs and optional photo packages for the perfect memento.
See all experiences in The 5 Best Honolulu Parasailing Experiences [2025 Reviews]
Hawaii Glass Bottom Boat Tour
| 1.Afternoon Glass Bottom Boat Tour in Waikiki | 2. Glass-Bottom Boat Reef Tour | 3. Glass-Bottom Boat Cruise from Waikoloa |
|---|---|---|
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| Start: Waikiki, Oahu | Start: Kailua-Kona, Big Island | Start: Waikoloa, Big Island |
| Time: Afternoon daily | Time: Multiple times daily | Time: Morning & afternoon |
| Duration: 1 hour | Duration: 1 hour | Duration: 30 minutes |
| Highlights: Vibrant tropical fish & turtles under spacious glass viewing deck. | Highlights: Colorful reef fish, turtles & dolphins visible through large viewing windows. | Highlights: Unique coral formations & marine life viewed comfortably from boat’s glass panels. |
Stay dry while diving into the wonders of Hawaii’s marine world. These Hawaii glass bottom boat tour options are ideal for families and those seeking relaxed coastal views with peeks into reef life, fish schools, and the occasional turtle sighting.
Discover the full list in The 10 Best Hawaii Glass Bottom Boat Tours [2025 Reviews]
Maui Tropical Plantation Tours
| 1. Maui Pineapple Farm Tour | 2. Maui Ku'ia Estate Cacao Farm Tour | 3. Taste of Hawaii: A Maui Farm Tour |
|---|---|---|
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| Start: Haliimaile | Start: Lahaina | Start: Lahaina |
| Time: 9:30 AM, 11:45 AM, 1:45 PM | Time: 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM | Time: 9:00 AM, 1:00 PM |
| Duration: 1.5 hours | Duration: 1.5 hours | Duration: 3 hours |
| Highlights: Tour pineapple fields, enjoy fresh samples & learn harvesting secrets. | Highlights: Explore lush cacao farm, taste premium chocolate & enjoy stunning views. | Highlights: Visit taro fields, taste farm-fresh food & enjoy authentic local flavors. |
Ride through lush fields, sample sugarcane, and soak in local farming traditions on a Maui tropical plantation tour. These slow-paced experiences highlight the island’s agricultural roots and are a perfect detour from the beach.
Browse your options in The 5 Best Maui Tropical Plantation Tours [2025 Reviews]
Best Jurassic Park Tour Hawaii
| 1. Kualoa Ranch: Movie Sites and Ranch Tour | 2. Kualoa Ranch UTV Raptor Tour | 3. Oahu: Kualoa Jurassic Valley Zipline Tour |
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| Start: Kualoa Ranch, Oahu | Start: Kualoa Ranch, Oahu | Start: Kualoa Ranch, Oahu |
| Time: Multiple times daily | Time: Multiple times daily | Time: Morning & Afternoon |
| Duration: 1.5 hours | Duration: 2 hours | Duration: 3 hours |
| Highlights: Visit iconic film sets like Jurassic Park, Godzilla & Lost—guided exploration of scenic Kualoa Ranch landscapes | Highlights: Thrilling ATV ride through rugged terrain exploring Jurassic film sites with breathtaking valley views. | Highlights: Zipline adventure across stunning Jurassic Valley; thrilling views of movie scenes & lush jungle canopies. |
Step onto the set of cinema’s most iconic island scenes. These best Jurassic Park tour Hawaii adventures take you deep into dramatic valleys and rugged landscapes where the Jurassic films came to life — by 4×4, ATV, or even horseback.
Get the full breakdown in The 10 Best Jurassic Park Tours in Hawaii [2025 Reviews]
Kona Coffee Farm Tours
| 1. Big Island Circle Tour & Volcano Adventure | 2. Volcanoes, Waterfalls & Coffee Farm Day-Trip | 3. Vida Mia Morning Coffee Cruise |
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| Start: Kailua-Kona | Start: Kailua-Kona | Start: Honolulu |
| Time: 8:00 AM | Time: 7:30 AM | Time: 9:00 AM |
| Duration: 11 hours | Duration: 11 hours | Duration: 2 hours |
| Highlights: Circle island adventure, coffee tasting, volcano views, Hamakua Coast & waterfalls. | Highlights: Volcanoes National Park, waterfalls, coffee plantation tour & tasting, luxury van transport. | Highlights: Scenic coastal coffee cruise, morning relaxation, stunning views, and onboard coffee tasting. |
Venture into the hills of the Big Island where rich volcanic soil fuels one of the world’s most celebrated coffee crops. These Kona coffee farm tours give you a taste of the growing, harvesting, and roasting process — plus a fresh cup to savor at the source.
See all tour options in The 10 Best Kona Coffee Farm Tours [2025 Reviews]
Best Road to Hana Tours
| 1. Small-Group Road to Hana Adventure | 2. Famous Road to Hana Waterfalls & Lunch by Mercedes Van | 3. Road to Hana Adventure Maui Tour with Lunch |
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| Start: Kahului | Start: Kahului | Start: Kahului |
| Time: 7:00 AM | Time: 7:30 AM | Time: 6:30 AM |
| Duration: 10 hours | Duration: 10 hours | Duration: 10 hours |
| Highlights: Comfortable transport, waterfall stops, scenic Hana Highway views, lunch included. | Highlights: Mercedes luxury van, waterfall stops, gourmet lunch, premium comfort, expert guides. | Highlights: Scenic coastal drive, lunch included, waterfalls, and black sand beach visit. |
Wind your way along one of the world’s most scenic drives with a guided Road to Hana adventure. These best Road to Hana tours cover waterfalls, bamboo forests, coastal cliffs, and cultural stops — all with the added ease of a local guide behind the wheel.
Explore the full roundup in The 10 Best Road to Hana Tours [2025 Reviews]
Hawaii Adventure Tours to Volcano Kilauea
| 1. Big Island Hawaii Volcano Adventure | 2. Private Guide – Hawaii Volcanoes National Park | 3. Hilo Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Flight |
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| Start: Hilo | Start: Volcanoes Nat'l Park | Start: Hilo Airport |
| Time: 8:00 AM | Time: Flexible | Time: 9:30 AM, 2:30 PM |
| Duration: 9.5 hours | Duration: 2–6 hours | Duration: 55 minutes |
| Highlights: Crater Rim Drive, Thurston Lava Tube, active lava flows & panoramic coastal views. | Highlights: Fully personalized, expert guide, hidden spots, and intimate volcanic exploration. | Highlights: Stunning aerial views, active lava lakes, Mauna Loa, Kilauea crater flyover. |
For those craving drama and awe, these Hawaii adventure tours to Volcano Kilauea offer a front-row seat to one of Earth’s most active volcanic landscapes. Walk on lava fields, explore craters, and learn about the ongoing story of Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of fire.
Discover the best experiences in The 5 Best Hawaii Adventure Tours to Volcano Kilauea [2025 Reviews]
Best Sunset Cruise Kauai
| 1. Deluxe Na Pali Sunset Tour on the Lucky Lady | 2. Na Pali Sunset & Sightsee Boat Tour | 3. Leila Na Pali Sunset Dinner Sail |
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| Start: Port Allen Marina | Start: Port Allen Marina | Start: Port Allen Marina |
| Time: Afternoon (2:00–3:00 PM) | Time: Afternoon (2:00–3:00 PM) | Time: Afternoon (2:00–3:00 PM) |
| Duration: 5 hours | Duration: 4 to 5 hours | Duration: 5 hours |
| Highlights: Luxury catamaran, sunset views, dinner, wildlife. | Highlights: Power catamaran, dolphin spotting, sunset dinner views. | Highlights: Elegant catamaran, champagne sunset toast, marine life. |
| Reserve Your Spot Today | Reserve Your Spot Today | Reserve Your Spot Today |
End your day on a high note with a romantic or family-friendly voyage along Kauai’s golden coastline. These best sunset cruise Kauai tours pair dramatic cliffs and calm waters with cocktails, dinner, and unforgettable views.
Find your perfect cruise in The 6 Best Sunset Cruises in Kauai [2025 Reviews]
Kauai Snorkeling
| 1. Half-Day Raft and Snorkel Adventure to Na Pali | 2. Deluxe Na Pali Morning Snorkel Tour on the Lucky Lady | 3. Na Pali Coast Super Raft Adventure with Snorkel |
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| Start: Kikiaola Small Boat Harbor | Start: Port Allen Marina | Start: Hanalei Bay |
| Time: 7:00 AM | Time: 7:30 AM | Time: 7:30 AM |
| Duration: 6 hours | Duration: 5 hours 30 minutes | Duration: 4 hours |
| Highlights: Thrilling raft ride, snorkel Na Pali’s clear waters, caves, marine life, includes lunch & drinks. | Highlights: Luxury catamaran, spectacular coastline views, snorkel with sea turtles & dolphins, breakfast & lunch included. | Highlights: Guided snorkeling, stunning coral reefs, Na Pali coast views, great for families, refreshments provided. |
| Reserve Your Spot Today | Reserve Your Spot Today | Reserve Your Spot Today |
Dive into the warm Pacific and discover a world of marine life just below the surface. These Kauai snorkeling tours highlight calm bays, sea caves, and vibrant coral reefs where turtles, eels, and reef fish thrive.
Browse all the top-rated tours in The 10 Best Kauai Snorkeling Tours [2025 Reviews]
Best Napali Coast Boat Tours
| 1. Deluxe Na Pali Morning Tour on the Lucky Lady | 2. Deluxe Power Catamaran | 3. Na Pali Sunset & Sightsee Boat Tour |
|---|---|---|
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| Start: Port Allen Marina | Start: Port Allen Marina | Start: Port Allen Marina |
| Time: 7:00 AM | Time: 8:30 AM | Time: 3:00 PM |
| Duration: 5 hours 30 minutes | Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes | Duration: 4 hours |
| Highlights: Enjoy luxury catamaran cruising with snorkeling along picturesque cliffs. | Highlights: High-speed catamaran exploring scenic cliffs and reefs. | Highlights: Scenic sunset cruise with dolphins and captivating coastline. |
| Reserve Your Spot Today | Reserve Your Spot Today | Reserve Your Spot Today |
Cruise beneath towering sea cliffs, past cascading waterfalls, and into sea caves on a Napali Coast boat tour. These unforgettable experiences blend natural beauty with adventure, offering some of the most stunning ocean views in all of Hawaii.
Explore your options in The 10 Best Napali Coast Boat Tours in Kauai [2025 Reviews]
Kilauea Volcano Helicopter Tours
| 1. Discover Hilo Helicopter Tour | 2. Big Island Spectacular Helicopter Tour | 3. Day Trip from Oahu to Hilo Active Volcanoes |
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| Start: Hilo Airport | Start: Waikoloa | Start: Honolulu Airport |
| Time: Multiple daily flights | Time: 8:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 2:00 PM | Time: 5:00 AM (full day) |
| Duration: 50 minutes | Duration: 2 hours | Duration: 12 hours |
| Highlights: Stunning aerial views of active lava flows & lush rainforests. | Highlights: Covers Kilauea, Kohala mountains, lush valleys, waterfalls & coastline. | Highlights: Full-day experience, flight from Oahu, exploring Kilauea and lava flows. |
| Reserve Your Spot Today | Reserve Your Spot Today | Reserve Your Spot Today |
Soar high above molten craters and steam vents on a Kilauea volcano helicopter tour. These flights deliver a breathtaking view of the Big Island’s dynamic volcanic terrain — from black lava fields to vibrant rainforest edges.
See the top tour options in The 5 Best Kilauea Volcano Helicopter Tours [2025 Reviews]
Best Kauai Helicopter Tours
| 1. Kauai ECO Adventure Helicopter Tour | 2. Kauai Private Helicopter Tour | 3. Hughes 500 Helicopter Adventure |
|---|---|---|
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| Start: Lihue | Start: Lihue | Start: Lihue |
| Time: Multiple daily departures | Time: Customizable | Time: Multiple daily departures |
| Duration: 50 mins | Duration: 60 mins | Duration: 60 mins |
| Highlights: Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, stunning waterfalls. | Highlights: Fully private, custom routes, intimate sightseeing. | Highlights: Thrilling doors-off, scenic coastline, lush valleys. |
| Reserve Your Spot Today | Reserve Your Spot Today | Reserve Your Spot Today |
These best Kauai helicopter tours offer jaw-dropping perspectives of the island’s most remote and rugged scenery. Fly over the dramatic cliffs of the Napali Coast, dip into the emerald folds of Waimea Canyon, and glimpse waterfalls hidden deep within the jungle.
Browse the featured flights in The 6 Best Kauai Helicopter Tours [2025 Reviews]
Best Luau in Oahu for Families
| 1. Chief’s Luau | 2. Paradise Cove Luau | 3. Mauka Warriors Luau |
|---|---|---|
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| Start: Wet 'n Wild, Ko Olina | Start: Paradise Cove, Ko Olina | Start: Waipahu Cultural Center |
| Time: 5:00 PM | Time: 5:00 PM | Time: 5:30 PM |
| Duration: 4 hours | Duration: 5.5 hours | Duration: 3 hours |
| Highlights: Kids on-stage fun, interactive activities, thrilling fire knife dancing, engaging Polynesian storytelling. | Highlights: Interactive cultural games, beachside location, canoe rides, traditional Hawaiian feast, family-friendly crafts. | Highlights: Warrior-themed cultural performances, hands-on demonstrations, engaging storytelling, Hawaiian cuisine. |
| Reserve Your Spot Today | Reserve Your Spot Today | Reserve Your Spot Today |
Celebrate Hawaiian culture with the whole family at a traditional island luau. These top-rated experiences combine music, hula, storytelling, and an abundant feast, making them the best luau in Oahu for families looking to connect with local heritage.
Explore the festive line-up in The 5 Best Luaus in Oahu for Families [2025 Reviews]
Kilauea Volcano Over the Years
Kilauea isn’t just an attraction — it’s an evolving force of nature. This unique guide explores the volcano’s history, eruptions, and changing landscape, capturing how the island has grown and transformed over time.
Take a deeper look in Can You Still Visit Kilauea in 2025? Exploring Hawaii’s Active Volcano
The 100 Best Hawaii Tours Travel Guide
With its emerald valleys, lava-sculpted coastlines, and spirit of aloha, Hawaii is more than just a vacation — it’s a state of mind.
Whether you’re planning your first island escape or returning to explore a different shore, this guide covers everything you need to know.
From iconic tours to quiet getaways, we’ve handpicked the best things to do, when to go, and how to make the most of your time in paradise.
Consider this your go-to Hawaii vacation planning companion.
Best Places to Visit in Hawaii
Each Hawaiian island brings its own rhythm — a unique blend of landscapes, culture, and experiences. Oahu is known for its vibrant mix of city and surf, where Waikiki meets Pearl Harbor and lush North Shore beaches. Maui offers romantic escapes, winding coastal drives along the Road to Hana, and sunrise magic atop Haleakala.
Kauai, the “Garden Isle,” steals hearts with its dramatic cliffs on the Napali Coast and quiet trails through Waimea Canyon. Then there’s the Big Island — a land of fire and snow, where you can snorkel in the morning and stand at the rim of an active volcano by afternoon.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or serenity, there’s an island that feels made just for you.
Explore even more through curated experiences like the Road to Hana tours, Kilauea volcano helicopter flights, or Napali Coast boat cruises.
Top Attractions in Hawaii You Can’t Miss
Hawaii’s top attractions are more than postcard moments — they’re invitations to engage all five senses. Watch the sunrise above the clouds on a Haleakala sunrise tour, or dive into the reefs of Molokini Crater and Turtle Town for an underwater spectacle.
History buffs can retrace World War II at Pearl Harbor or explore the royal past at Iolani Palace. Adventurers might zipline through rainforest canopies or hike to lava tubes near Volcanoes National Park. Families won’t want to miss cultural luaus, while couples can toast to the horizon on a sunset cruise off Kauai.
No matter your pace, Hawaii’s must-see spots blend natural beauty with rich stories and unforgettable experiences.
When is the Best Time to Visit Hawaii?
Hawaii’s balmy weather means there’s truly no bad time to visit — but your experience will vary by season. For sun-drenched beaches and calmer seas, April through October is ideal. This dry season is perfect for snorkeling, hiking, and outdoor tours like Jurassic Park adventures or glass bottom boat rides.
If you’re looking to avoid crowds and save a little on airfare and lodging, consider traveling in the shoulder months — mid-April to early June or September through early November. Winter months (December–March) bring bigger surf on the North Shore and the chance to spot migrating humpback whales.
For cultural events, plan your trip around local festivals like the Merrie Monarch Hula Festival or Aloha Festivals, when tradition is proudly on display.
Essential Travel Tips for Visiting Hawaii
Planning a trip to Hawaii goes beyond booking flights and hotel stays — it’s about tuning into the local rhythm. First, don’t try to see it all in one go. Focus on one or two islands to fully enjoy each destination. Island hopping in Hawaii is doable, but rushing it diminishes the experience.
Renting a car is often the best way to explore beyond the resort areas, especially for scenic drives like the Road to Hana. Pack reef-safe sunscreen, as regular formulas are banned to protect coral reefs. And if you plan to hike, bring shoes with grip — trails can be muddy and steep.
Respect local customs and the land, especially around sacred sites like Iao Valley and Volcanoes National Park. Learn a few Hawaiian words like “mahalo” (thank you) — it’s appreciated more than you might expect.
Family-Friendly Activities in Hawaii
Hawaii is a dream destination for families, with activities that cater to all ages. Calm beaches like Lanikai or Baby Beach in Maui are perfect for little swimmers, while older kids will love snorkeling with sea turtles on a Molokini and Turtle Town tour.
Take the family to a pineapple plantation tour for a sweet bite of island history or board a Hawaii glass bottom boat where marine life can be seen up close without getting wet. Many luaus, like the best family-friendly luaus in Oahu, offer keiki (children’s) activities and a buffet that even picky eaters will love.
Opt for gentle hikes like the Iao Needle lookout or take a tram ride through a Maui tropical plantation. Hawaii makes it easy to balance relaxation and adventure with little ones in tow.
Adventure and Outdoor Activities in Hawaii
Thrill-seekers, rejoice — Hawaii is bursting with outdoor adrenaline and raw beauty. Zipline above canopies, paddleboard through mangroves, or embark on a Jurassic Park tour through film-worthy valleys. For a bird’s-eye view, few experiences match a Kauai helicopter tour soaring above the Napali Coast.
Hiking is everywhere — from the lava fields of Kilauea to rainforest trails along waterfalls. For marine adventures, snorkel with manta rays, dive into sea caves, or parasail over Waikiki with tours like Honolulu parasailing. And if you crave serenity after the rush, watch the sun melt into the sea from a sunset cruise in Kauai.
Whether you’re chasing waterfalls or waves, Hawaii delivers outdoor thrills with a tropical twist.
Food & Dining Highlights in Hawaii
Hawaii’s culinary scene is a reflection of its multicultural heritage and connection to the land. You’ll find flavors from Japan, Portugal, the Philippines, and Polynesia — all blended into dishes that feel distinctly Hawaiian.
Start your day with loco moco or a fresh acai bowl, and don’t miss plate lunches served at local food trucks. Fresh poke is available just about everywhere, and if you’re touring the Kona coffee farms, be sure to sip a cup of the island’s finest brew.
Luau feasts like those featured in the best luaus in Oahu for families offer a vibrant introduction to traditional island flavors — kalua pig, poi, laulau, and coconut haupia, all served with music and hula. Farmers’ markets across the islands also offer a taste of Hawaii’s freshest produce, from sweet pineapple to liliko‘i (passionfruit).
Transportation Tips & Getting Around Hawaii
Getting around Hawaii can be smooth if you plan ahead. On Oahu, Honolulu has a decent public transit system, but for the rest of the islands, a rental car is your best bet — especially if you’re heading out on adventures like the Road to Hana or exploring remote beach parks.
Island hopping is typically done via short inter-island flights. Most are under an hour and served by local carriers. Book early if traveling during peak months. Once on an island, ride-shares and taxis are available in more urban areas, but become scarce in rural zones.
Consider joining organized tours if you prefer not to drive. Many top-rated excursions — like Volcano Kilauea tours or Napali Coast cruises — include round-trip transportation, which can be a stress-saver.
Accommodation Recommendations for Hawaii
Whether you want a luxury resort with an infinity pool or a cozy cottage in the jungle, Hawaii offers accommodations for every style and budget. Oahu is home to major beachfront hotels in Waikiki, while Maui delivers romantic resorts in Wailea and family-friendly options near Kaanapali.
For more rustic charm, Kauai and the Big Island have eco-lodges, boutique hotels, and vacation rentals that immerse you in the landscape. Staying near Volcanoes National Park lets you experience Hawaii’s geologic wonders up close, especially after a scenic flight with Kilauea volcano helicopter tours.
If you’re traveling with a group or family, vacation homes and condos with kitchens are ideal. They offer flexibility, savings on meals, and room to spread out.
Planning Your Perfect Vacation to Hawaii
Start by asking: what kind of traveler are you? Looking for culture, relaxation, or adrenaline? Once you know your style, pick one or two islands and shape your days with just a few scheduled activities, leaving space for spontaneity.
Use this guide to find curated tours like Molokini snorkeling trips, tropical plantation tours, or scenic helicopter flights over Kauai. Book popular experiences in advance, especially luaus and sunrise tours.
Finally, keep an open mind. Hawaii has a way of guiding you — a sudden rainbow, a quiet beach, or a roadside fruit stand might just become the highlight of your trip.
FAQs About Visiting Hawaii 2025
1. What’s the best island to visit for first-timers in Hawaii?
Oahu is a great starting point for first-timers. It blends iconic beaches, cultural sites, and easy access to top Hawaii tours and excursions.
2. When is the cheapest time to vacation in Hawaii?
Traveling in the shoulder seasons — April to early June and September to mid-November — offers fewer crowds and better deals on accommodation and Hawaii vacation planning.
3. Are guided tours worth it in Hawaii?
Yes. From Road to Hana tours to Kilauea volcano tours, guided experiences add depth, safety, and ease to your itinerary.
4. Can I visit multiple islands on one trip?
Yes, island hopping in Hawaii is popular. Inter-island flights make it easy to explore two or more destinations during your stay.
5. What are some family-friendly tours in Hawaii?
Great choices include glass bottom boat tours, pineapple plantations, and Oahu luaus for families.
6. What’s the best way to get around in Hawaii?
Renting a car is ideal, especially for scenic drives. Some Hawaii tours also include hotel pickup, which helps if you’re staying car-free.
7. Is Hawaii suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. With safe communities and easy access to group tours and cultural experiences, solo travel in Hawaii can be both relaxing and enriching.
8. Do I need to book tours in advance?
For popular activities like Haleakala sunrise tours and luaus, advanced booking is strongly recommended, especially during peak months.
9. Are there budget-friendly things to do in Hawaii?
Yes — hiking, snorkeling from the shore, visiting farmers’ markets, and self-driving scenic routes are all excellent budget travel in Hawaii options.
10. What cultural experiences shouldn’t I miss?
Don’t miss a traditional luau, the hula, local art galleries, and visiting sacred sites like Iao Valley. Cultural respect is a key part of Hawaii travel tips.
11. What should I pack for a Hawaii trip?
Bring lightweight clothes, swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes, and a light jacket for cooler nights or volcano visits.
12. Is it safe to visit Kilauea Volcano?
Yes. Kilauea volcano tours are operated with safety in mind and often guided by experts familiar with the current activity levels.
13. Are helicopter tours in Hawaii worth the cost?
For many, yes. Seeing Kauai’s cliffs or the lava flows from above is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
14. How long should I stay in Hawaii?
A 7–10 day trip is ideal, especially if you’re visiting multiple islands or planning to explore both adventure and relaxation activities.
15. Do I need travel insurance for Hawaii?
While Hawaii is part of the U.S., Hawaii travel insurance is still a good idea — particularly for cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage.
Don’t Let Trip Surprises Cost You!
Medical emergencies abroad or flight cancellations can be costly. Stay protected with comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses, trip delays, lost baggage, and more.
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