From the time you get off the plane to Hawaii, you’ll instantly experience the city’s freshness. Hawaii attracts the best of travelers with its vibrant beauty. But when it comes to exploring the place, you may struggle with where to start. Do not fret; this guide will serve as your map for the myriad of places to explore in Hawaii.
From islands to national parks, you have a range of options. So, even if you are going
the first time to Hawaii, where to go will be easier to navigate.
So, let’s begin.
Best Hawaiian Islands for First-time Visitors
While in Hawaii, you’ll hear a lot about its islands. The place has vast options. However, you must focus on the six major islands. Again, you may not visit all of them. So, here’s a quick rundown of each island’s details to help you decide:
1. Maui
Often referred to as the Valley Isle, Maui hosts the magnificent inactive shield volcano. Moreover, it possesses the scenic Iao valley. People often sunbathe on the island’s lovely sandy shores, watch whales, or visit the beautiful town of Lahaina.
2. Kauai
The visitors often call Kauai the “Garden Isle” because this island is ideal for lovers of wilderness. You can also enjoy natural scenery along the island’s coast trails. Additionally, there’s a river on the Wailua kayak that provides scenic views.
3. Big Island
As the name suggests, it is one of the biggest islands of Hawaii. The place is best for geologically inclined tourists. So, if you are among those, then you’ll find many exciting things on the island. For example, volcanic terrain, an observatory, and a geothermal zone.
4. Molokai
Molokai trails are famous for the beautiful ‘no crowds’ feel and Hawaiian tropical relaxation. You can go for a hike and visit the historic park. Don’t miss watching the Molokai mule races, which are interesting community events.
5. Lanai
This place is great for a honeymoon. However, there are many things sole travelers can do, too. The island has popular championship golf courses. Moreover, it gives a feel of luxury with renowned spas or breathtaking terrains.
6. Oahu
Oahu, another vast island, probably offers the most diverse experience. Honolulu and Waikiki cities on this island balance the tropical wilderness. To comfortably explore such a vast island, you can seek personalized expert guidance. Platforms like Adventures with SABI have many resources that can help you.
Popular Hawaiian Places for the First Timers
Above, you learned about the best islands. Thus, when you go for the first time to Hawaii, where to go shouldn’t be a question for you. But, each island and the Hawaiian city has many spots to explore. Among them, you must not miss these:
1. Pearl Harbor (Oahu)
It allows you to see the remains of the Second World War at Pearl Harbour, existing since December 7, 1941. The Imperial Japanese Navy performed the act that forced the USA to join the Second World War.
2. Road to Hana (Maui)
Drive around in a rented car to visit the Treasury, Twelve Apostles, waterfalls, an empty beautiful beach, and interesting towns. This is a beautiful 102. 2 km drive that passes through the eastern coast of Maui island.
3. Waimea Canyon (Kauai)
This canyon lets you enjoy the eye-pleasing views from a height. If you love adventure, you can hike across the canyon with a guide or by yourself.
4. The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Hawaii has many picture-perfect locations, and this place is one of them. Besides the beautiful views, you can explore active caldera, stratovolcanoes, and lava tubes. The park has the world’s most active volcano, Kilauea.
5. Haleakala National Park (Maui)
If you love to watch the aesthetic sunrise, you must visit this park. In fact, the park is also called House of the Sun, which is over 10000 feet at its peak. This big inactive volcano mountain constitutes the eastern part of Mauna.
6. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve (Oahu)
Enjoy swimming in the warm, and shallow waters of this snorkeling/glass-bottom boat attraction. This bay comes among popular marine parks.
6. Polynesian Cultural Center (Oahu)
This living museum will let you get closer to Hawaiian culture. Here, you can get to learn about six Polynesian island groups. These include Hawaii, Tahiti, Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, and Aotearoa.
7. Iolani Palace (Oahu)
You must visit this royal palace. In fact, it is the only royal palace in the USA. If you are into historical stories, the palace is a good place to revisit the lives of Hawaiian royalties. The structure has stood still since 1882.
8. Napali Coast (Kauai)
Enjoy the walking tracks along the stunning cliffs, or grab a boat for the Nepali coast viewing tour. The area is isolated and rocky, and it is located in the northwest part of the island of Kauai.
9. Hulihee Palace (Kauai)
You can take a self-guided tour of this palace. It’s fully restored and furnished and gives an insight into Kauai’s history. The castle was built in the early nineteenth century using the Kawai court architecture. Hawaiian royalty used to come here for vacations.
Where to Stay in Hawaii
In Hawaii, you can easily find accommodations that fit your budget and preferences. You can get the following options:
1. Luxury Resorts
Treat yourself to a bit of luxury by booking the best resorts in Hawaii. These places offer beachfront rooms, the latest spas, and heavenly seaside views.
2. Boutique Hotels
For a more family-oriented experience, you can look for a family leisure hotel. This kind of lodge normally has a cozy and safe environment. Many hotels even give personalized services to customers.
3. Vacation Rentals
Do you want to experience local Hawaiian life? Then, get an apartment or a house for rent. Such rentals are usually big in size, so you can choose them if you’re traveling in a large group.
4. Bed and Breakfasts
When it comes to basic lodging, you can go for these small and warm spaces. These are family-run shelters that offer room for the night and breakfast in the morning. If you want to interact with local hosts more closely, living in such places is a good idea.
5. Camping
When you travel for the first time to Hawaii, where to go for accommodation means adventure to you, then try camping. Search for the list of places to camp where you can rent a tent and spend the night in Hawaii. Be sure to pre-book the accommodation, especially when you visit Hawaii during the holiday season.
Public Transportation and Travel Around the City
Transportation in Hawaii is very convenient with numerous means. There are options for lone travelers, those who want a relaxed approach, and those who want to cover most destinations at once. So, as per your preferences, you can use the following:
1. Rental Cars and Public Buses
Rent cars for a more relaxed, free-roaming sightseeing. Ensure to make an early reservation particularly during the busy months. If you are looking for cheaper means of transport, then choose the public buses.
2. Taxis, Ride Sharing, and Ferries
You can book local taxis or popular cab services like Uber or Lyft. Ferries are also available to travel through Maui, Lanai, Molokai, and Kauai, which provide beautiful views.
3. Inter-Island Flights
You can take a flight when you hop between different islands. Ensure to check local airlines in Hawaii that you can travel with.
Hawaii Awaits You
You must travel to Hawaii, where nature is beautiful, history is vibrant, and there are countless things to do. You’ll get wedged between a two-tone beach, a black sand one, and many other fantastic Hawaiian experiences. Hopefully, this guide covers everything you need to know while traveling for the first time to Hawaii: where to go, where to stay, and ways to travel.
