Planning Your First Trip to Hawaii? Here's What You Need to Know
With excellent restaurants and world-class family resorts, Hawaii is a one-of-a-kind paradise. It's no wonder Hawaii was named one of the best travel destinations by both Travel & Leisure and Forbes. If you were hoping to book a vacation to Hawaii this year, we have good news: Hawaii is officially open to visitors again. Here’s all you need to know to plan the perfect trip to paradise.
Review the Requirements
Travelling may look a little different this year, but it can still be an experience of a lifetime. Make sure to brush up on all the Hawaii state travel requirements so avoid any travel worries,
Islands to Visit
First-timers planning a trip to Hawaii often spend lots of time trying to decide which islands to visit. It’s highly subjective, depending on your time, budget and goals. Whether you are visiting Hawaii for a relaxing honeymoon getaway or looking for an activity-driven escape, there's an island for you. Click here to find the perfect Hawaiian island(s) for you.
What To Do
Home to stunning natural beauty, miles of sugar-white sands, and famous historic sites like Pearl Harbor, Hawaii offers something for every kind of traveler. With so many options, it can be hard to choose what to do. We've narrowed it down a bit for you—and here are are our top picks.
Enjoy the Coast From the Sea
Experience unforgettable views of the islands just as the ancient Hawaiians did, gliding across the waves in your watercraft. Grab a paddleboard or canoe at the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort. The resort is set on the beautiful Waikiki Beach, arguably one of the most scenic beaches in Hawaii.
Learn to Hang Ten
Can there be a better water sport than surfing? It’s good for the soul and lots of fun. Waikiki Beach on Oahu is a favorite spot for beginners. This area boasts gentle, predictable waves perfect for learning to surf. Want to know where to learn the moves? Check out Faith Surf School in Waikiki. They offer both private and group lessons.
Try a Taste of the Islands
With all of the fresh seafood and perfectly ripened tropical fruits, Hawaii is a gourmet paradise. For unique views and an atmosphere to match, have dinner at Duke’s Waikiki (including Hula Pie). This restaurant is located right on the beach, and it's the perfect place to catch a spectacular sunset. Oahu’s also great for local craft beer—and you can check out the original Maui Brewing Company on the island of Maui OR at the Waikiki location. Enjoy a sampling of some of the best Hawaii-made beers and see how it’s done.
Appreciate Local Art
Hawaii is an art-lover’s paradise. Stroll through the Honolulu Museum of Art for a view of Hawaiian artistic endeavors over the centuries, or take a stroll through the Waikiki Beachcomber, which is the first lifestyle hotel that is curated by local Hawaiian artists.
Where To Stay
Whether you're staying on the popular island of Oahu or one of the more laid-back neighbor islands, we've got you covered., With properties on Oahu, Maui, Kauai and the Big Island, you have lots of options. We have many family-friendly accommodations as well. Our Maui family resorts, Oahu family resorts, and Kauai family resorts are the perfect place to get some sun and surf with your whole family.
What To Pack
Wondering what to pack for a week in Hawaii? One item that you should bring is reef-safe sunscreen. And surf-and-snorkel friendly bikinis. Want to know what else to bring and what to leave at home? Take a look at this blog post.
What To See
Here are three can't-miss places that we think every traveler should visit on a trip to Hawaii.
The Road to Hana - Viewing Maui's spectacular shoreline from the Hana Highway as it twists and turns through thick jungle, near gushing waterfalls and past sheer cliffs is one of the top things to do in Hawaii. Make a day of it by stopping at sights along the way like Wailua Falls and Wai’anapanapa State Park.
Iolani Palace - Visit the site of America's last monarchy, immaculately restored and filled with items of historic and artistic importance. The home of Hawaii's ruling family, it offers daytime and evening tours and glimpses of Hawaii's royal past.
Waimea Canyon - The island of Kauai's breathtaking gorge plunges into a deep crevasse, offering stunning hues of red rock interspersed with green vegetation. Visitors can hike along the rim at nearby Kokee State Park for spectacular views and picture taking.
Whether you plan on visiting just one island or want to take in as many as you can, your visit will take you to places of unique and astounding tropical beauty. With so much to offer, you may find yourself longing to return to these magical islands again and again. And, with so many family resorts, Hawaii is a perfect destination for the whole family. So what are you waiting for? Explore rates for your Hawaii family travel here.
