Hawaii Travel Guide | Best Islands, Beaches & Things to Do in Paradise

Discover Hawaii's Wonders

Hawaii, the Aloha State, is a tropical paradise of six main islands—Oahu, Maui, Kauai, Hawaii Island, Lanai, and Molokai—each offering unique landscapes and experiences. From Waikiki’s surfing waves to Maui’s lush Hana Highway, Kauai’s dramatic Na Pali Coast to the Big Island’s active volcanoes, Hawaii is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Visitors can hike rainforest trails, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, witness breathtaking sunsets, and immerse themselves in rich Hawaiian culture and traditions. Whether you’re exploring historic Pearl Harbor, relaxing on golden-sand beaches, or tasting local favorites like poke and shave ice, Hawaii promises unforgettable moments. Year-round warm weather makes it the ultimate vacation destination.

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Trips

Hotels

Activities

Transfers

Useful information

Population:

Oahu: 953,200 Honolulu: 387,170

Currency:

1 US Dollar = 100 Cents

Emergency Info:

911

Opening Hours:

Most stores are open daily from 10am to 6pm or even longer, while most of the bars and clubs close down at 2am.

Do & See

Bishop Museum

The Bishop Museum provides excellent exhibits of Hawaiian and Polynesian culture, including Hawaiian artifacts and royal family heirlooms. The museum was founded in 1889 in honor of the royal Kamehameha family and it is definitely one of the must sees when visiting Honolulu.

Byodo-In Temple

Ring the 5-foot and 3-ton brass bell for good luck, feed droves of eager carp, ducks and swans in the garden's pond, or just relax in the ambiance of the Byodo-In Temple. However, make sure to visit the 2-ton carved wooden statue of the Buddha sitting placidly inside the replica Temple, hearkening 11th century Uji, Japan.

Chinatown Cultural Plaza

The sprawling Cultural Plaza in Chinatown is a shopping square surrounding a courtyard that hosts an incense-enveloped shrine and the Moongate stage for holiday performances. Near the canal, you will meet local community members playing cards and mah-jong.

Diamond Head State Monument

Hawaii’s most famous landmark, the Diamond Head, is a volcanic crater with a 360-degree view over the island, and its name comes from English sailors who thought its calcite crystals were pure diamonds. The scenic hike up to the summit, taking the so-called stairway to heaven, will not be soon forgotten, and so it happens to the views from atop.

Dole Plantation

The days of pineapple plantations were pivotal for the economic success of Hawaii, and visitors are now given the chance to explore this rich history. At Dole Plantation, exhibits will tell you more about this far-reaching market, while a gift shop, a snack concession, educational displays and the world's largest maze will serve your entertainment.

Foster Botanical Gardens

For peace and relaxation away from the bustle of tourist areas, head to the Foster Botanical Gardens and walk among a variety of placating bromeliads, orchids and other tropical plants. Many of the trees are still in residence from 1853, when Queen Kalama leased a portion of her land.

Green World Coffee Farm

On this 7-acre farm, 2,000 arabica trees grow typical coffee beans from all over the Hawaiian islands. Free samples of at least 5 varieties of coffee are always available in the store, and you can also enjoy a fresh cup at the espresso bar. However, do not forget to go on a self-guided tour to learn more about the production on the farm itself.

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve

Hanauma Bay is a marine nature reserve and one of Oahu’s most iconic snorkeling destinations. Glide through its crystal-clear waters to encounter shimmering schools of silver fish, vibrant parrotfish, and even curious sea turtles that might swim right up to you. As a protected marine-life conservation district, the bay is a haven for biodiversity, but its popularity also poses a challenge. The delicate ecosystem faces ongoing threats from the very visitors who come to admire its beauty, making responsible tourism essential for its preservation.

Dining

Akasaka

Akasaka, a cozy sushi bar, is a testament to Hawaii’s rich Japanese heritage. Tucked away in an unassuming location, this spot surprises with its exceptional sushi, sashimi, and grilled specialties like butterfish. For an authentic taste of Japan in the heart of Hawaii, Akasaka delivers an experience that’s well worth seeking out.

Arancino on Beachwalk

Arancino is an upscale Italian restaurant serving different typical dishes accompanied with great wines. As cheese, meat, and pasta get imported all the way from Italy, all the dishes get that specific taste, and they are as authentic as Italian food far away from its source can possibly be.

Buzz's Steakhouse

Tiki style steakhouse featuring a surf 'n' turf menu and a variety of cocktails. Buzz's just happens to be former U.S. President Barack Obama's favorite eatery whenever he is in Hawaii, so come see for yourself what the "buzz" is all about.

Chef Chai

Chef Chai is claimed as one of Hawaii’s top Hawaii Regional Cuisine chefs, and his menu fuses fresh Hawaii ingredients with flavors from Asia to celebrate Oahu's cultural diversity. Chai’s restaurants have been praised and recommended by Bon Appetite, Brides, Sunset, Cooking Light, Travel & Leisure, Gourmet Magazine, and many more, so do try and discover its flavors for yourself.

Cholo's Homestyle Mexican

Hawaii's multicultural heritage does not only include Asian and Polynesian influences, and this Mexican restaurant gives visitors that other side of the Hawaiian melting pot, offering all the fixings you would expect: tacos, fajitas, burritos, enchiladas and much more. Also, the fish tacos are made with the freshest catch, and the margaritas with the juiciest mangoes.

Helena’s Hawaiian Food

Helena's is a renowned Honolulu diner serving home-cooked specialties such as smoked short ribs pipikaula-style and squid luau. After being a local favorite for over 60 years, the restaurant and its chef Helen Kwock Chock received the James Beard Award in 2000. Her grandson, Craig Katsuyoshi now runs the restaurant.

Kai Market

A regional "farm-to-table" menu and international flavors is what you can expect from Sheraton's Kai Market, as you will find everything from a prime rib carving station to Chinese-style steamed fish and clams in a ginger-black-bean sauce. Daily open-air luau-style shows take place here as well.

Kua Aina Sandwich

Kua Aina has been a go-to spot for locals and visitors since it opened in 1975. Known for its generously sized, hand-formed burgers, this eatery lets you customize your meal with toppings like crispy bacon, melted cheese, creamy avocado, and the classic Hawaiian pineapple. Whether you’re a burger enthusiast or just looking for a satisfying meal, Kua Aina is a must-visit.

Cafes

Barefoot Beach Cafe

Barefoot Beach is a reliable choice for a budget-friendly breakfast, but it’s equally worth visiting for lunch or dinner. Set right on the sand, this spot offers more than just a satisfying menu — it’s an experience. As the sun sets, the glow of tiki torches creates a warm, inviting atmosphere, making it the perfect place to unwind by the water.

Cinnamon's

Specialized in breakfast and brunch foods, the dishes here strive to be fresh and free from chemicals, preservatives and additives, providing wholesome and balanced meals. Although its name implicates sweet treats, you will also find savory dishes on their menu.

Heavenly Island Lifestyle

Farm-to-table cafe serving Hawaiian dishes made with local and organic produce in a colorful island setting. Very popular breakfast and brunch spot.

Hiking Hawaii Cafe

Located underneath the Doubletree Alana Hotel, Hiking Hawaii Cafe is kind of a hidden gem of Waikiki. Serving fresh and healthy fare at a laid back and friendly atmosphere, this is a great place to start your day before hitting the great outdoors. On their menu, you'll also find non-dairy drinks as well as vegan snacks.

Honolulu Coffee at Moana Surfrider

Located at the Moana Surfrider Resort & Spa in Waikiki Beach, the Surfrider Cafe is a trendy breakfast and lunch spot. They serve healthy dishes at its beachfront location, and you will find a variety of specialty coffees, island fruit bowls, salads, freshly prepared lunch dishes and sandwiches on the menu.

Island Vintage Coffee

Island Vintage Coffee Company carries 100% gourmet Kona coffee, so they only feature the finest coffee beans chosen from volcanic soils of Hawaii. While having a coffee is almost mandatory, trying their tasty poke and açai bowls as well as their sandwiches will also enrich your stay (and day).

Sugoi Bento & Catering

Sugoi Bento is a breakfast-and-lunch Japanese diner known for their fast service, delicious food and large portions, so make sure you're hungry when you walk in here. Although their atmosphere does invite you to stay, do (also) build your own bento (=take-out portion) and don't leave without trying their famous crispy and tender garlic chicken, you will not be disappointed.

Tea at 1024

For a unique tea experience, head to Tea at 1024. Once voted Best Afternoon Tea in Hawaii, this quaint little tea shop offers you the perfect English tea experience with a Hawaiian touch. While they prepare your tea, why not go all out and choose a hat and a feather boa for delighting in the quirky and fun atmosphere?

Bars & Nightlife

Chief's Luau Admission

You can't leave Hawaii without enjoying an authentic luau. And this one on Oahu promises to give you and your family an experience to be remembered for years to come. Immerse yourself in island culture as you watch a Polynesian show, learn headband weaving, or take a hula dance lesson. Then, indulge in a Hawaiian feast, including pineapple-glazed chicken and kalua pork.

Duke's Waikiki

This lively beachfront bar serves in the memory of Duke Kahanamoku who was the legendary Waikiki surfer, winning Olympic medals in swimming and introducing surfing to Australia and New Zealand. Head here for some drinks and to learn more about this legend.

Genius Lounge Sake Bar & Restaurant

The intimate and candle-lit ambiance at Genius Lounge is sophisticated but laid-back and, as it is very inviting, regularly attracts locals and tourists alike. Their menu offers a wide selection of cocktails and sake, as well as Japanese-inspired dishes and Hawaiian fare.

Hanks Cafe Honolulu

Hanks Cafe is a beloved local dive bar where live contemporary Hawaiian music sets the vibe, and friendly service keeps the drinks flowing. Owner Hank Taufaasau originally opened the space as an art gallery to showcase his paintings and prints, but he added the bar to cover the bills — as he puts it, "Artists starve!" At Hanks Cafe, though, no one leaves hungry for good music, great drinks, or a welcoming atmosphere.

Hulas Bar & Lei Stand

Hula's is Hawaii's oldest and best-known gay-friendly nightspot. Enjoy the view of Diamond Head and Waikiki beach during the day and head over to the dance floor during the night for some drag shows, male dancers and songs from past patrons including Elton John, Adam Lambert and Dolly Parton.

Mai Tai's Ala Moana

If you're looking for a place to start into the night (and maybe stay), stop by this award-winning rooftop bar. When night falls, you get to enjoy island-style live music while sipping cocktails like Cucumber Melon Crush, Mango Mai Tai, and Mandarin Sweet Tea Cooler.

Nextdoor

Nextdoor is a funky underground club in the heart of Chinatown, known for its eclectic mix of music — from dance and electro to reggae. With a lineup that showcases both local and international talent, it’s the perfect spot to discover fresh sounds and emerging trends. Whether you’re there to dance or simply soak up the energy, Nextdoor delivers a unique nightlife experience.

Polynesian Cultural Center Luau

The Polynesian Cultural Center hosts an amazing luau and buffet six nights a week, and it also offers a show entitled "Ha: Breath of Life." As this luau and the show are widely considered to be one of the most authentic experiences visitors can have of Hawaiian tradition and culture, make sure you do not miss it.

Shopping

Ala Moana Center

Ala Moana is an enormous open-air shopping mall, hosting over 240 stores and 60 restaurants in the 50-acre complex and, thus, an impressive blend of international, national, and local boutiques. Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior, and Armani are some of the brands located on site but you can also experience many more.

Aloha Stadium Swap Meet & Marketplace

On Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, the parking lot of the Aloha Stadium becomes a huge marketplace, where vendors push everything from Hawaiian themed clothes, accessories and souvenirs to ethnic food, silk flowers and other decorations. If you're patient and search thoroughly, you'll come across really unique items.

Aloha Tower Marketplace

The Aloha Tower Marketplace is a lively waterfront market featuring restaurants, entertainment venues, shops, and kiosks. Stop by to experience a vibrant and colorful shopping experience and take home some souvenirs.

Bookends In Kailua

Bookends In Kailua is a proudly independent neighborhood bookstore with a quaint and familiar feel to it. As all the walls are lined with both new and used books, and the large children's section invites families to come and linger for a good while, browsing through the extensive selection is always a great experience here.

Hilo Hattie

Hilo Hattie at the Ala Moana Center is Honolulu's top destination for Hawaiian fashion, gifts, souvenirs, home and beach accessories, beauty products, gourmet foods and stunning island jewelry. In fact, you can get almost everything here, so this is where tourists in the know go to get that Hawaiian shirt that visitors simply have to take back home.

Kahala Mall

Kahala Mall holds the distinction of being Hawaii’s first mall. Though smaller than other shopping centers, it offers everything you need — from anchor stores and local boutiques to a range of eateries and a movie theater — often at more affordable prices. Whether you’re shopping, dining, or catching a film, Kahala Mall delivers a convenient and enjoyable experience.

Lanikai Bath & Body

The products for sale at Lanikai comprise everything for health, hygiene and beauty: from creams, lotions and soaps to bath salts and scrubs. All products are made in Hawaii, using natural ingredients and extracts from all sorts of natural sources, including fruits, nuts and weeds.

Luxury Row

Luxury Row brings the latest high fashion and luxury items to Oahu, offering luxury brands including Chanel, Coach, Tiffany & Co, Yves Saint Laurent, Bottega Veneta, Gucci, and Hugo Boss. As the center is located in the heart of the Waikiki beach resort and urban retail district, you probably do not even have to travel far.

Tourist Information

Best Time to Visit

Oahu has great weather all year round and is considered to be one of Hawaii's best islands. However, the winter from November until March can be more rainy, especially on the island's east coast, so this season can be considered as a less popular one with visitors. While the winter offers the best chances for whale watching, the period between May and September is the warmest, and thus tourists' favorite. Do consider traveling in off-season periods, as prices will be lower and both sights and streets less crowded.

Passport / Visa

Citizens of the Schengen countries, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and the Kingdom of Brunei can visit the United States for up to 90 days without applying for a visa (as well as citizens of Andorra, Lichtenstein, Monaco and San Marino). Citizens of these countries must obtain an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) before traveling. All other travelers must obtain a visa before visiting the United States. International travelers need a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the end of their intended trip to enter the country.

Honolulu Airport (HNL)

Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu is located approximately 2 miles (3 km) from Downtown Honolulu. Bus numbers 19 and 20 run from the airport to Downtown Honolulu and then on to Waikiki from 5am to 11:45pm. Roberts Hawaii Tours and Transportation company operates a shuttle bus from the airport to any hotel in Waikiki, and another option is Oahu Airport Shuttle. There are also a number of taxi services waiting outside the terminal.

Public Transport

Waikiki Trolley, the local transport service, has 40 drop off points between Downtown Honolulu, Waikiki, and Hanauma Bay, and they run regularly. You can buy single tickets as well as 1, 4 or 7 day passes, and they will allow you to take every bus and even a ride at Double Deckers.

Taxi

There are several taxi services operating across the island, and Charley's Taxi is one of the most known. Other options for lower fares are the rideshare companies Uber and Lyft.

Electricity

All power sockets in the United States provide a standard voltage of 110–120V with a standard frequency of 60Hz. Plug type A has two flat parallel pins.

Motorbike / Bicycle Rental

From Harleys to mountain bikes or whatever suits you best, the Big Kahuna Motorcycle Rentals provides you with all kinds of mobility devices.

Pharmacy

Chain pharmacies — Safeway, Walmart, Costco, Longs Drugs (owned by CVS) etc. — as well as smaller neighborhood stores operate on Oahu. While working hours may greatly vary, a few are open 24/7. Pharmacy signs are often in red and white, and they are often located inside department stores. Most pharmacies sell both prescription and over the counter medicine.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to visit Hawaii?

The best time to visit Hawaii is during the shoulder seasons of April to June and September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer tourists, allowing for a more relaxed experience. Additionally, you'll find a variety of cultural events and festivals during these periods.

What are the must-see attractions in Hawaii?

Hawaii offers a diverse range of attractions, including the volcanic landscapes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island, the stunning beaches of Waikiki on Oahu, and the lush Hana Highway on Maui. Don't miss Pearl Harbor for its historical significance and the breathtaking Na Pali Coast on Kauai for its dramatic cliffs and hiking trails.

What local dishes should I try in Hawaii?

When in Hawaii, be sure to try traditional dishes like poke, a raw fish salad, and loco moco, a hearty meal consisting of rice, a hamburger patty, fried egg, and gravy. Also, sample poi, a staple made from taro root, and malasadas, Portuguese-inspired donuts that are a popular sweet treat.

How many days should I spend in Hawaii?

A typical visit to Hawaii should last at least a week to fully experience the islands' diverse offerings. This allows time to explore multiple islands, enjoy various outdoor activities, and immerse yourself in the local culture. If you have more time, consider spending a few days on each of the major islands to get a well-rounded experience.

What is the best way to get around Hawaii?

The best way to get around Hawaii is by renting a car, especially if you plan to explore beyond the main tourist areas. Public transportation is available in some areas, but it may not reach all attractions. For inter-island travel, consider booking flights between the islands, as this is the most efficient way to hop from one to another.

Where should I stay when visiting Hawaii?

Your choice of accommodation in Hawaii depends on your interests. For a lively atmosphere and beach access, consider staying in Waikiki on Oahu. If you prefer a more tranquil setting, the North Shore of Oahu or the island of Kauai offers a laid-back vibe. Maui's resort areas like Wailea and Kaanapali are ideal for luxury seekers.

Are there any cultural customs I should be aware of in Hawaii?

In Hawaii, it's important to respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes before entering someone's home and be mindful of the 'aloha spirit,' which emphasizes kindness and respect. When visiting sacred sites, dress modestly and follow any posted guidelines to show respect for the cultural significance of the area.

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