Table of Contents

25 Top Hawaii Packing List Items for 2023 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

snorkeling in hawaii
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Aloha! Whether you’re traveling to Oahu, Maui, Kauai, or the Big Island, we’ve got you covered. Our family has called Hawaii home for over five years now. We compiled this complete Hawaii packing checklist to help you feel like a part of the local Ohana on your next Hawaiian getaway.

Hawaii has a whopping 11 climate zones and endless things to see and do, so it’s important to come well-prepared. Below you’ll find our top 25 “must-have” items for an epic trip. We also have some tips on what to wear in Hawaii, a list of items NOT to bring, and some common FAQs about traveling in Hawaii. Mahalo Nui!

Fergusson family photo on maui hawaii
Us at home on Maui! (Chowing down at our favorite restaurant)
See our product selection criteria and guidelines here.

What to Pack for Hawaii – 25 Essentials

  • 1. Universal Waterproof Phone Case

    This case is a MUST if you want to bring your phone to the beach, on boats, hiking near waterfalls, or anywhere it can get wet, fall into the water, or get damaged by sand. Unfortunately, my last iPhone fell prey to a North Shore king tide and it killed my speakers. This case protects your phone while giving you the ability to take underwater photos and videos (with sound)! Which is a wonderful thing when you want to capture your snorkeling kiddo seeing a turtle for the first time. And the best part? It’s actually designed in Hawaii by a woman-owned company. Talk about coming full circle!

    Universal Waterproof Phone Case

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 2. Flotation Strap

    If you’re going to bring your waterproof phone case or underwater camera out on a boat, while snorkeling, near a waterfall, or while paddle boarding etc. then you have to have this flotation strap so that it’ll float if you drop it! Simply attach the little string to your waterproof phone case and never worry about losing your phone to the bottom of the sea.

    Flotation Strap

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

    This item may be a surprise to find on a Hawaii packing list, but I’ve found having a good VPN is essential for any travel. I learned this the hard way when I recently had my credit card number stolen after using what I thought was a secure Wifi network at an Airbnb rental.

    I’ve learned that whenever you go on someone else’s WiF,i whether it’s at a cafe, airport, Airbnb, or hotel, you’re potentially putting your passwords, credit card, and identity at risk of being hacked.

    The good news is that with a VPN like NordVPN you protect yourself on any device with 1-click. The other benefit of having a VPN is that if you ever travel somewhere that censors the Internet (such as Thailand or parts of Europe), you’ll still be able to access all your favorite websites. I highly recommend you check it out before your next travels in order to guarantee the safety of your sensitive data.

    Virtual Private Network (VPN)

    View NordVPN.com Options ➜

  • 4. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

    Have you ever felt like a pack mule trying to get all your gear from the hotel to the beach? Trying to fit multiple fluffy towels into a beach bag is nearly impossible, and lugging heavy, sandy, wet towels around after a day at your favorite Hawaiian beach can be a hot mess. Microfiber travel towels are compact, lightweight, and quick-drying while still being large enough to sunbathe on. They are an ideal way to streamline your travel bag and keep you feeling as light as possible.

    HERO Travel Towel - Blue

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 5. Travel Insurance for Hawaii

    Travel insurance is one of those things you don’t really think about until you’re in a situation where you need it. In our opinion, it is a non-negotiable because knowing that you’ll be covered for accidents, medical emergencies, trip interruptions, baggage loss or delays, flight delays, theft, and more brings serious peace-of-mind.

    Another unfortunate truth is in some parts of Hawaii, thieves regularly target tourist rental cars parked at popular attractions such as waterfalls and beaches. For this reason, we highly recommend you get travel insurance which costs a tiny fraction of your trip. We use Faye because making claims and getting reimbursed has truly never been easier. Their app lets you handle everything right from your phone, so you don’t have to stress over endless amounts of paperwork. It’s been a total game-changer for us!

    Faye Travel Insurance

    Get a quote in less than 60 seconds with Faye ➜

  • 6. Affordable Underwater Camera

    With the turquoise beaches, incredible marine life, luscious rainforests, and waterfalls – there are plenty of gorgeous things to take pictures and videos of in Hawaii. But all of these scenic activities require a waterproof camera, which is why we recommend this little beauty! If you want to take better quality video than with a smartphone (and don’t want a more expensive GoPro), then this is a perfect camera for not breaking the bank.

    underwater camera

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 7. Swimsuit Cover-up

    Swimsuit cover-ups are essential in Hawaii. You can go for a swim, throw it over your suit, and then casually head to lunch or the shops without much thought. This one pictured is the one that I personally use and I get tons of compliments! It’s attractive on all body types, the lightweight fabric dries quickly and is breathable — plus it takes up very little room in your suitcase and comes in several colors. Very mermaid boho chic!

    swimsuit cover up

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 8. Cooling Towels

    This cooling towel is of our favorite – whether sunbathing, hiking through the rainforests, or just enjoying one of Hawaii’s many outdoor shopping experiences, these puppies remain 20-30 degrees cooler than the air temperature and keep cool for up to 60 minutes. This one has no chemicals but is crazy effective: wrap the cooling towel around your shoulders, head, and neck you will feel instant relief. If the cooling vibes start to run out, dip the towel in some water, wring it out, and BOOM! Ready to go for round two. For anyone who gets crabby when overheated or just plain uncomfortable, this towel is for you.

    Cooling Towel Pink and blue

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 9. Mesh Slip-On Water Shoes

    From waterfalls to coastlines to volcanos – we highly recommend these lightweight, mesh water shoes. Hiking in Hawaii is beautiful, but the terrain varies wildly (some beaches have sharp lava rocks and can be hard on the feet, while others cover steep muddy trails). Don’t lug around heavy hiking boots that are impractical for Hawaii, they will end up soggy. This pair is breathable (meaning your feet won’t get too hot and sweaty), plus the “water grain” sole provides exceptional traction in wet and slippery conditions. They’re also super easy to clean and come in multiple colors.

    mesh shoes

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 10. Tickets to Top Hawaii Attractions

    Hula dance and feast at a Maui bonfire luau, zipline through the Oahu jungle, do a foodie tour, or soar over Hilo’s Volcano National Park on a helicopter tour. Or all of the above! Your trip is only as good as what you do, so make the most of your time in paradise.

    We had a wonderful family experience recently on Calypso’s Snorkeling Tour to Molokini and “Turtle Town” on Maui.

    Get Your Guide is our favorite resource for affordable and well-planned excursions that really resonate with the entire family. Create personalized itineraries and discover the best experiences in Hawaii while comparing verified reviewers so you don’t wind up trapped in a disappointing attraction! You often also receive a discount by booking in advance.

    get your guide

    See all Hawaii attractions at GetYourGuide.com ➜

  • 11. Neck Wallet

    Unfortunately, Honolulu and especially Waikiki are pickpocket hotspots. For this reason, we highly recommend you use a quality neck wallet while going through airports and walking through crowded touristy areas. This clever little pouch safely holds phones, credit cards, passports, cash, and travel docs, allowing you to be hands-free. Hawaii is also in the middle of the Pacific Ocean so you will likely still feel jet-lagged after a long journey (especially if you’re coming from the east coast). It’s handy to have all your valuables in one secure place so that you don’t lose them when you’re exhausted.

    Neck Wallet

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 12. Leave-in Hair Conditioner

    Maybe she’s born with it, maybe she’s revitalizing her hair with this anti-frizz detangler! Lots of time in the sun and salt water may be the staple of a Hawaii vacation, but it can wreak havoc on your hair. Yes, mermaid hair is a given, but with leave-in conditioner you can protect your curls from the elements and prevent overdrying.

    Leave-In Conditioner

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 13. Packing Cubes

    While you wander the intricate beauty of the Hawaiian islands, elevate your entire experience with these packing cubes. These premium luggage organizers allow you to compress your items to fit more and pack creatively. You can also bring some with you on a daytime excursion and have an elegant solution for remaining on-the-go. Throw sandy and wet clothes in one, fresh clothes in another, and now you don’t have to stop to change before dinner. You’ll locate things in your suitcase with considerably more ease and it comes with two laundry bags that separate dirty and clean clothes. Once you try packing cubes, you’ll never go back to a discombobulated suitcase ever again.

    Available on HeroTravelSupply.com with an exclusive 15% discount using the coupon code “HERO.”

    Packing Cubes

    Or view them on Amazon.com ➜

  • 14. Waterproof Dry Bag

    Before I knew about dry bags, I got my backpack soaked on a day trip to Molokai because the boat got splashed by the waves and drenched the deck. This one from Earth Pak is our top pick because it’s inexpensive, cleans easily and most importantly, it works! We’ve dropped ours in water and even submerged it without any belongings getting wet. I recommend it whether you’re heading to the beach, going on a day trip on a boat, hiking through majestic waterfalls, or planning to do extensive water-based excursions.

    EarthPak Dry bag

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 15. Windproof Travel Umbrella

    Many of the most beautiful parts of Hawaii see rain 165+ days a year. This is especially true on “The Road to Hana,” parts of Kauai, and Hilo which is the rainiest city in the entire U.S.! It can also be very breezy, so you may need to battle many elements simultaneously. Don’t ruin your day by getting caught in a blustery downpour. We love this windproof travel umbrella because it’s well-made, lightweight, portable, and has never failed us. (If it ever did, it comes with a lifetime replacement guarantee). Uhm… the last umbrella I ever need to buy? Yes, please.

    travel umbrella

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 16. Deet-Free Mosquito Wristbands

    Hawaii is a prime target of blood-sucking mosquitos and these thirsty vampires are not to be underestimated. They breed in standing water, making them heavily abundant in the moist areas of the rainforest and some drier areas too. Pack these natural bug-repellant bracelets that are made with plant-based essential oils (citronella, lemongrass, and geraniol). They’re safe for children and one size fits all. Wear them around your wrists and ankles to minimize any chance of getting chewed up – your future self will thank you!

    mosquito wristbands

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 17. Long-sleeved Swim Rash Guard

    The sun in Hawaii is surprisingly strong even in the winter, and “rashies” are popular amongst locals. If you are fair-skinned (like my hubby!) or this is your first time in the sun for a while, you will be glad to know this swimsuit top has UPF sun protection of 50+. I have olive-toned skin and still wear mine religiously, especially when paddle boarding. The sun is the most common cause of skin cancer (not to mention premature wrinkles), and overexposure to UV radiation is easily preventable. Look hawt while protecting your skin, win-win.

    rash guard

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 18. Sand-Resistant Beach Blanket

    Say goodbye to annoying sand and shake it off with this blanket that’s resistant to sand, water, and heat. Beach blankets are a bare necessity in Hawaii, but the wrong one will cause distress by weighing you down, getting moldy smelling, or simply not drying quickly enough. This fast-dry towel made from parachute material is breathable, folds into a compact pouch, and comes with 4 anchoring hooks so it won’t blow around in the breeze. This jumbo travel mat is ideal for picnics and holds groups of 4-7 people.

    beach blanket

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 19. Beach Bag

    Travel smarter with this 2-in-1 beach bag with an insulated cooler. It has enough room for everything you could need without being bulky – I bring all of the kids’ snacks, drinks, towels, change of clothes, diapers, etc., and love that I can fit everything I need in one bag (especially since it doubles as a mini-fridge!) Water-proof and sand-proof material allows you to easily clean it after a day at the beach and fold it up compactly in your luggage. Bonus points for the shoulder strap option which keeps you hands-free. Step up your island travel game and consolidate bags where you can.

    beach bag

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 20. Natural Motion Sickness Patches (That work!)

    From the winding roads of Hana to undulating ferryboat rides – motion sickness patches are a must when traveling to an island destination. Recently, I had a long ride home and became very nauseous from the twists and turns up Mt. Haleakala from Hana. I recommend these to anyone with a fear of heights, carsickness, seasickness, or a sensitive stomach because they actually work. They’re 100% natural with no side effects, the real deal!

    Pro Tip: Waters around Hawaii can be rough any time of year but especially in the wintertime (November to April) on the Northshores. If you get seasick, it’s best to choose seafaring excursions on the calmer side of your island.

    Natural Motion Sickness Patches (That work!)

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 21. Gorgeous Dress

    Inevitably, you’ll want to grab a cocktail or a nice dinner somewhere and a sundress won’t quite cut it. I recommend bringing at least one nice outfit on your trip. I love this dress (pictured) and personally own it. It doesn’t wrinkle, it’s easy to throw on after a long day at the beach, super sexy on all body types, and comes in a variety of colors. We’re going for – affordably chic while looking like a million bucks!

    dress

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 22. Packable “Just in Case” Bag

    In case you want to bring a little aloha home with you, this “just in case” bag is a thoughtful treat. Save yourself carry-on fees with this compact travel bag that can count as a personal item bag that fits neatly under the seat of a plane. Made of water-resistant nylon, it’s a simple, durable, and multifunctional bag. It can be carried on top of your luggage or attached to the handle – great for souvenirs, new outfits, sarongs, prints, coffee, pineapples (yes, you can take them home), and more.

    Just in Case bag

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 23. Kids Full-Face Snorkel

    This anti-leak snorkel mask is an essential addition for families visiting the islands. While it may be easy enough to rent adult snorkels, it is more difficult to find a child’s snorkel mask that actually fits your little one’s face. We love this one because it feels safer to them without the nose or mouthpieces in the way and will not distort your child’s vision or lead to dizziness. Not to mention, they feel pretty cool in the cartoon shark design (available in 3 color options).

    Shark mask snorkel kids

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 24. Hangover Relief (Natural)

    After living here for many years, we’ve seen SO many tourists drinking TOO MANY Mai Tais on their travels and suffering the consequences the next day. Hawaii is too beautiful to lose your vacation days to painful headaches, sickness, and fatigue. It’s also important to note that the sunshine is fierce here and can amplify the impact of alcohol, leaving you especially drained and dehydrated. Counteract any aftereffects with Cheers Restore Supplement. Formed with milk thistle herb and B vitamins, it kickstarts your energy and repairs liver cells, which detox the alcohol from your system more quickly.

    Hangover Relief (Natural)

    View on Amazon.com ➜

  • 25. Aloe Vera Gel

    Your time in Hawaii will be filled with sunshine and saltwater. While good for the soul, it can often take a red-raw blistering toll on your skin. Keep your sun-kissed skin happy by applying aloe vera gel after each day. This ultra-filtered, 100% cold-pressed aloe is effective for all skin types and soothes sunburns, scrapes, and eczema. Maintain that healthy island glow long after leaving Hawaii!

    Aloe Gel

    View on Amazon.com ➜

What to Wear in Hawaii

What you should wear in Hawaii varies a bit depending on what you’ll be doing and what areas of the state you’ll be in.

In general, though, Hawaii is warm and fairly casual. You’ll be most comfortable if you stick to clothes made of breathable, lightweight fabrics, and shorts, sundresses, and sandals are acceptable for most occasions.

If you’re planning on going out for nice dinners or attending shows, you might want a couple of dressier outfits for evenings. Also, note that if you don’t want to look like a tourist then don’t wear a Hawaiian shirt! 🙂

Many parts of Hawaii can get chilly at night too, so a lightweight fleece is a good idea, and it’s a must if you’re planning on visiting any higher elevations such as Mt. Haleakala or Mauna Kea.

lyric enjoying the pool in hana
What should WOMEN wear in Hawaii? – (Click to expand)
Below is a sample women’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Sunglasses
Sandal
Flip Flop

When visiting Hawai, women should favor lightweight, breathable fabrics. The weather is consistently very warm to hot, so beach attire is ideal. Sundresses, shorts, and t-shirts, or maxi dresses are the name of the game. Sweat-wicking athletic attire is great for active days, but generally, you’ll feel cooler in loose-fitting, airy clothing. Linen, lightweight cotton, and silk are all great options.

The vibe on all Hawaiian islands is mostly casual. Be sure to have a swimsuit coverup or sundress to throw on overtop for sun protection and modesty. You may also wish to bring one or two more elegant outfit choices for dining out in nice restaurants.

If you intend on watching the sunrise from Mt. Haleakala or other high elevations then you’ll definitely need to bring at least one very warm outfit. We once went up there unprepared and almost froze to death! 🙂

What should MEN wear in Hawaii? – (Click to expand)
Below is a sample men’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

White Shirt
Orange Board Shorts
Mesh Water Shoes
Grey Shorts
Drybag
Ray Bans
Straw Beach Hat
mosquito repellent bracelets

Beach attire is ideal for most parts of Hawaii. Men will feel most comfortable in light, airy clothing, like shorts and t-shirts. Though you may want a few nice shirts for going out at night for a dinner. You’re bound to sweat a lot during the day, especially if your vacation is action-packed, so ensure you have a couple of extra, clean outfits to change into in the evenings after the day’s activities are done. If you plan on visiting one of Hawaii’s volcano summits then you definitely need to bring a warm fleece and scarf because it can get freezing up there!

Packing for the Seasons in Hawaii

SUMMER – May, June, July, August, September, October

Summer can be very warm in the dry areas near tourist resorts and beaches. These sides of the islands tend to be where mountains block or break up rainfall-carrying clouds. Dress for hot and dry, but don’t forget that many parts of the islands are downright tropical and will still have substantial rainfall – and mosquitoes! Good hiking shoes are a must, and a rain jacket is still wise.

Bring a sun hat and good sunglasses, plus don’t neglect your skin – apply reef-safe sunscreen frequently! Temperatures out of the water average between 80°F to 90°F (27°C to 32°C). Summer water temps are often near 80°F (27°C) in most areas.

whale's tail flying out of ocean

WINTER – November, December, January, February, March, April

This is a slightly cooler time in most parts of most islands. If you’re staying or adventuring on the windward sides of an island, plan for higher wind and a little chill. A light sweater and a rain jacket are a good idea. If you’re planning to climb to some higher elevations (like Mt. Haleakalā – the dormant volcano on Maui or any of the other taller mountains in Hawaii), you WILL need a fleece jacket or something similar. A hat and light gloves aren’t a bad idea for such adventures, either.

Waterproof hiking shoes are ideal for this time of year in Hawaii! Tropical areas will enjoy more rain and fairly steady temps. Sunny, dry areas (like those near most tourist resorts) will typically have cooler but dependably calm weather. Temperatures out of the water average between 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C). Winter water temps on Maui and Oahu are usually around 77°F (25°C).

Dressing appropriately for the activity in Hawaii – (Click to expand)
Snorkeling/Diving – For snorkeling or diving excursions, a daypack will help you transport everything you need for the outing. Be sure to pack a water bottle, sunscreen, a change of clothes and a towel or sarong. Flip flops are the perfect footwear because you can slip them on and off quickly as you’re in and out of the water.

Beach/Pool – There’s no question that much of your trip to Hawaii will be spent by the water. Be sure you protect yourself from the sun. Polarized sunglasses, a sunhat, and high-SPF sunscreen will prevent overexposure. A swimsuit coverup or long-sleeved linen shirt will offer additional sun protection if you need it.

Hiking – If you plan on doing hiking then you will want sturdy shoes, possibly long pants and bug spray. There can be a LOT of mosquitoes in certain parts of the islands. And as mentioned elsewhere, you will want to bring very warm clothes if you go to the summit of one of the volcanoes.

Dining out – Having a gorgeous dress for ladies and a stylish shirt and pants for guys is ideal. If you don’t want to look like a true tourist then I would avoid Hawaiian shirts. Think smart casual.

Read next: Top Hawaii Travel Tips (According to Locals) ➜

What NOT to Take to Hawaii

  • 1.DON’T PACK too many clothes.

    Bringing lots of clothes will weigh down your luggage, and you really don’t need a ton of different outfits for a vacation. If you run out of things to wear while you’re in Hawaii, you can always do laundry at your hotel or a Laundromat.

  • 2.DON’T BRING unnecessary valuables.

    There’s always some risk of things getting lost or stolen on the road, even in safe destinations like Hawaii. Unless they’re things you’ll really need during your trip, bringing lots of valuables just isn’t worth the risk.

  • 3.DON’T TAKE heavy books.

    Books are heavy and bulky, making it hard to pack them when you need to keep your luggage under a weight limit or want to fit everything into a carry-on. Bring a Kindle instead, and leave the physical books at home.

  • 4.DON’T PACK a regular towel.

    You’ll definitely need towels in Hawaii, but nearly any hotel there will provide them. It’s not a bad idea to bring your own too, but take a quick-dry travel towel, not a bulky regular one.

  • 5.DON’T BRING high-heeled shoes.

    Hawaii is a casual enough place that most women who pack high heels never wear them. Leave your heels at home, and bring a pair of nice flats or strappy sandals for dressier occasions.

  • 6.DON’T TAKE diving equipment.

    Unless you’re a super serious diver who can’t stand the thought of rental equipment, there’s no need to bring your own. It’s bulky and heavy, and you can rent everything you need at any dive shop.

  • 7.DON’T BRING heavy sweaters or jackets.

    While there are cooler spots at higher elevations and it can get chilly in the evenings, Hawaii is still a tropical location. Bringing one light jacket or sweater is definitely recommended, but you’ll have no need for a ton of heavy clothes.

  • 8.DON’T PACK lots of electronics.

    Bring any electronics you know you’ll want to use during your trip, but there’s no reason to take extra gadgets and risk having them get lost or stolen. We highly recommend your bring this universal waterproof phone case for your phone.

Travel FAQs and Hawaii Vacation Tips

  • 1. What is the best month to visit Hawaii?

    The weather in Hawaii is fairly consistent year-round, so you don’t need to plan too much around the climate. The spring and fall months tend to see the fewest tourists, making them the best times to escape the crowds and get good discounts.

  • 2. Which Hawaiian Islands are the best to visit?

    Hawaii is made up of eight main islands (and over a hundred smaller ones), but the four most popular islands to visit are Maui, Kauai, Oahu, and the Big Island of Hawaii.

  • 3. What is there to do in Hawaii other than the beach and water sports?

    What is there to do in Hawaii other than the beach and water sports?

    Hiking is a very popular activity in Hawaii, and all four of the main islands have plenty of options. Hawaii is also home to two national parks, Haleakala National Park on Maui (pictured at sunset) and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island, and there are five active volcanoes in the state. Viewing the lava flow at Halema’uma’u crater on the Big Island is one of the most popular tourist activities, and it’s especially breathtaking before sunrise or after sunset. Other common attractions include luaus, museums, and cultural centers, Pearl Harbor tours, nightlife, spas, and lessons in hula dancing, ukulele, and lei-making.

  • 4. What is the weather like in Hawaii?

    Hawaii’s weather varies by the island and by elevation, but the average monthly temperatures are generally in the 70s. The weather is fairly consistent year-round, though it’s slightly cooler and rainier in the winter months. Also, it depends on where you are on an island. Generally, the northern and eastern coasts are wetter, while the southern shores (where most hotels are) are very dry year-round.

  • 5. What is the best way to get between the islands of Hawaii?

    There are some boat options for inter-island travel, particularly to and from Maui, but flights are much more common. Six airlines operate within Hawaii, and most flights last under one hour.

  • 6. Are there any health concerns for visitors to Hawaii?

    Visiting Hawaii poses no more health risks than visiting the continental U.S., and common sense will protect you against most potential issues, like dehydration.

  • 7. How much does it cost to travel in Hawaii?

    How much does it cost to travel in Hawaii?

    Options for both budget travel and luxury travel are plentiful in Hawaii. On the expensive end, there are hotels that run several hundred dollars a night and rental cars can cost around $75 per day. It’s easy to spend $50 or more on dinner at nice restaurants, and adventure tours can cost $100 per person for a half-day. On the other hand, Hawaii has B&Bs costing $50-$100 and hostels for less than that, and public transportation is widely available on Oahu.

    You can dine cheaply at local diners or pick up groceries at a farmer’s market or grocery store, and visiting the beach is free. If you’re really pinching pennies, you can probably travel in some parts of Hawaii on a budget of $75 a day. Of course, flights to Hawaii are non-negotiable; they can start around $400 from major West Coast cities (depending on the time of year) and go up from there.

  • 8. Are there cruises from California to Hawaii?

    Yes! There are many different cruise lines that typically do 15-night itineraries from Los Angeles to the Hawaiian Islands and back. Some longer cruises even go down to Tahiti as well. If you enjoy many cruising days at sea, then it can be the ultimate way to see all the islands without having to pack up your hotel each night. Be sure to check out our packing list for a cruise to get all our tips on what to bring.

  • 9. Where is a good place to travel off the beaten path in Hawaii?

    Where is a good place to travel off the beaten path in Hawaii?

    To find less touristy destinations in Hawaii, skip the four most popular islands (Kauai, Maui, Oahu, and the Big Island). The island of Molokai is the least visited and the least developed– there are no resorts, no fancy restaurants, not even a stoplight.

    There aren’t many attractions, but that’s part of what makes it so peaceful. My wife and I went camping on Molokai for a week and it was such a wonderful experience. We particularly liked the Pala’au State Park on Molokai.

  • 10. What are the best hikes in Hawaii?

    There are far too many great hikes in Hawaii to list, but some of the best are: Kalalau Trail and Hanakapiai Beach Hike (Kauai); Pipiwai Trail (Maui); Manoa Falls Trail and Diamond Head Crater Summit Trail (Oahu); and Muliwai Trail and Kilauea Iki Trail (the Big Island).

  • 11. Where should beginners learn to surf in Hawaii?

    There are great surfing spots on many of Hawaii’s islands, but the most popular for learning are on Oahu (Waikiki Beach and the North Shore) and Maui (Lahaina and Kihei).

  • 12. What are the best souvenirs from Hawaii?

    What are the best souvenirs from Hawaii?

    Everyone you know is sure to want a gift from your Hawaiian travels. These are a few of the best things to bring home: 

    1. Hawaiian fashions like shirts, skirts, and muumuus
    2. Artwork
    3. Coffee
    4. Coconut oil products
    5. Hawaiian music
    6. Sea salt products
    7. Hawaiian quilts
    8. Koa wood
    9. Jewelry
    10. Lauhala hats
    11. Ukuleles

  • 13. What is there to do on each Hawaiian island?

    What is there to do on each Hawaiian island?

    Planning a Hawaiian trip can be tough because there are multiple islands to choose to visit with amazing locations and opportunities on each one. I’ve narrowed it down to one must-do adventure for each island. 

    1. The Big Island: Volcanoes National Park
    2. Kauai: The Na Pali Coast
    3. Oahu: Pearl Harbor
    4. Maui: The Road to Hana
    5. Lanai: Horseback riding
    6. Molokai: Kalaupapa National Historic Park