Hawaii vacations: The lowdown
Say “Aloha” to ocean views, sandy shores, and sunny climes—you're on the ultimate Hawaii trip. Surfing in Maui, whale watching in Kauai: Epic family vacation activities are endless across the archipelago's 6 main islands of Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, and Hawaii Island, aka the Big Island. Get your adrenaline pumping on a visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island, where a pair of lava-bubbling active volcanoes promise the hottest vacation ever. And when you're done exploring the dramatic scenery, relax, unwind, and indulge at one of Hawaii's many gorgeous hotels.
Top destinations in Hawaii
The Latest Hawaii Vacation Packages
Ilikai by Luana Hawaii Vacation Rentals
Reviewed on Jun 18, 2024
Where to stay in Hawaii
Waikiki
Famous for Waikiki Beach, this district boasts six beaches and a skyline filled with high-rises and resort hotels. Surfing enthusiasts can enjoy the ideal surf break, while Kalākaua Avenue offers luxury shopping and Kūhiō Avenue features diverse dining and nightlife options.
Your Guide to Hawaii Vacations
1. Plan your dream getaway to Honolulu
Honolulu, located in the tropical paradise of Hawaii, offers a unique outdoor vacation experience. With its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear sea, and nearby islands, it is the perfect destination for sun and sand lovers. Explore the vibrant Chinatown and indulge in delicious local cuisine. Go shopping in the bustling markets and boutiques or take a tour to learn about the rich history and culture of the area. For the adventurous, Honolulu offers opportunities for surfing and other water sports. Don't miss the chance to visit the tropical gardens, monuments, and the bustling port. Experience the true essence of Hawaii in Honolulu.
- The peak season is from March to May
- The off-peak season is from October to December
- Travelers tend to stay 4 days in Honolulu
2. Find your perfect Kihei vacation
Kihei, located in Hawaii, is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With its stunning beaches, breathtaking sunsets, and crystal-clear waters, it's a paradise for snorkeling, swimming, and surfing. The laid-back atmosphere of Kihei allows visitors to relax and unwind while enjoying the local cafes and dining options. Whether you're exploring the nearby islands or simply basking in the warm sun, Kihei offers a truly unforgettable vacation experience. Don't miss out on the destination activities and a wide range of things to do, ensuring that there's something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful coastal town.
- The peak season is from July to September
- The off-peak season is from March to May
- Travelers tend to stay 5 days in Kihei
3. Experience Kailua-Kona with a travel package
Kailua-Kona, located in Hawaii, is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life, snorkeling and swimming are popular activities here. The area is also known for its picturesque islands and breathtaking sunsets, providing plenty of opportunities for relaxation and awe-inspiring views. In addition, Kailua-Kona offers a vibrant shopping scene, where you can find unique souvenirs and locally grown coffee. Whether you're exploring the volcanoes, enjoying the beach, or indulging in delicious dining options, Kailua-Kona promises an unforgettable outdoor vacation experience.
- The peak season is from January to March
- The off-peak season is from October to December
- Travelers tend to stay 4 days in Kailua-Kona
4. Create memories in Kaanapali with a vacation package
Kaanapali, located in beautiful Hawaii, is the perfect destination for a beach vacation. With its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking sunsets, it offers a truly tropical paradise experience. Snorkeling enthusiasts will be delighted by the rich marine life, while those seeking relaxation can indulge in spa treatments or simply soak up the sun on the pristine sands. For those looking for more adventure, there are plenty of excursions and island-hopping opportunities available. And when it comes to shopping and dining, Kaanapali offers a wide range of options to suit every taste. Come and experience the local atmosphere and create unforgettable memories in this tropical haven.
- The peak season is from March to May
- The off-peak season is from October to December
- Travelers tend to stay 5 days in Kaanapali
6. Enjoy Princeville with a travel package
Princeville offers a unique beach vacation experience in Hawaii. With its stunning geography, visitors can enjoy hiking, snorkeling, and birdwatching in the beautiful islands and beaches. The area is also known for its world-class golf courses, perfect for golf enthusiasts. The breathtaking sunsets and romantic atmosphere make Princeville an ideal destination for couples seeking a relaxing getaway. Whether you're looking for adventure or simply want to unwind, Princeville has a wide range of activities and things to do, ensuring a memorable vacation experience.
- The peak season is from June to August
- The off-peak season is from October to December
- Travelers tend to stay 5 days in Princeville
5. Escape to Koloa with a vacation package
Koloa is a paradise for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its stunning coastal landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking sunsets, it's the perfect destination for a relaxing beach vacation. Whether you're into snorkeling, swimming, or surfing, Koloa offers a variety of water activities to suit every taste. If you prefer a more laid-back experience, you can explore the beautiful gardens or go hiking in the nearby trails. For those looking for some retail therapy, Koloa also offers a range of shopping options. Whatever your preference, Koloa promises an unforgettable beach vacation experience.
- The peak season is from February to April
- The off-peak season is from October to December
- Travelers tend to stay 5 days in Koloa
Explore the hub of Honolulu
Hawaii's capital Honolulu blends big-city vibes with the laid-back island lifestyle: Scope out Iolani Palace, home to Hawaii's monarchy, to see how the other half live before catching some rays on Ala Moana Beach. Then, set your course for the Waikiki district to wrap up the day with ocean-fresh seafood, deliciously creative cocktails, and some of the coolest nightlife Hawaii has to offer.
Revel in the reefs of Kailua-Kona
Kailua-Kona on Hawaii's Big Island invites you to plunge right in—literally. Head out on a snorkeling or diving tour to explore the colorful coral reefs offshore and see the ocean from a whole new angle. Alternatively, leave the coast for the day and head into the island to discover local flora on a stroll around the atmospheric Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary, or stop by The Vanillerie vanilla farm to learn all about how this fragrant spice is grown.
Live like royalty in Kihei
Formerly the preferred vacation destination for Hawaiian royalty, it's easy to see why Kihei attracted such a star-studded crowd. With the beachfront Kalama Beach Park offering 36 acres of lush lawns and towering palm trees, it's an ideal spot to recharge your batteries. Once you've had enough fun in the sun for one day, make a beeline for Kihei's beach road to refuel on freshly caught local fish.
Turn up the heat in Hilo
Hilo's volcanic past looms large over the town. Overlooking not one but 2 volcanoes, the beaches around Hilo are dotted with natural lava rock pools: Young kids (and the young at heart) on a Hawaiian getaway love spotting the crabs, fish, and turtles that call them home. Wander inland to explore the untouched Wailuku River State Park and marvel at its 80-foot waterfall, before picking up a souvenir or 2 from the charmingly authentic Hilo Farmers Market.
Commune with nature in Kamuela
The lush rolling hills of Kamuela are just begging to be explored—and with countless hiking trails and horseback-riding tours to choose from, there's no excuse not to. After your exertions, head to the white sands of Waialea Beach for some well-deserved downtime or connect with local heritage at Isaacs Art Center museum and gallery: Whether you're a beach bum or a culture-vulture, you'll be as happy as a clam in Kamuela.
Bring history to life in Koloa
Home to Hawaii's first sugarcane plantation, Koloa is steeped in history: Saunter through the streets of Old Koloa Town, hike the Maha'ulepu Heritage Trail, or bring the town's past to life at the Koloa History Center. And because this is Hawaii, after all, you're only ever a stone's throw away from pristine sandy beaches—where the sound of the ocean will bring you right back into the present.
Best months to visit Hawaii
Looking for the best time to visit Hawaii? Our table will help you. Hawaii boasts a year-round average temperature of 71.7°F, reaching a peak of 78.1°F in September, its warmest month, and dropping to an average low of 59.0°F in June, the coolest month. The annual rainfall averages 83.4mm, with December experiencing the heaviest showers, while September is the driest month.
Month | Temperature (Fahrenheit) | Rainfall | Cloud coverage |
January | 70.7 | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny |
February | 68.2 | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny |
March | 70.3 | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny |
April | 71.6 | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny |
May | 72.9 | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny |
June | 59.0 | No Rain (Dry) | Mostly Sunny |
July | 77.2 | No Rain (Dry) | Mostly Sunny |
August | 77.9 | No Rain (Dry) | Mostly Sunny |
September | 78.1 | No Rain (Dry) | Mostly Sunny |
October | 73.4 | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny |
November | 71.2 | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny |
December | 69.4 | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny |
How to save money on a vacation to Hawaii
- Combine your flights with hotels or car rentals to save money.
- Take advantage of Expedia's OneKey program to collect points and save money.
- Utilize the helpful search filters on Expedia to find the perfect accommodation within your price range.
- Consider traveling during the off-peak season (October-December) for better deals.
- Use the search filter for price limits on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
- Explore the diverse experiences in Hawaii, whether it's relaxing on Waikiki Beach or hiking in Haleakala National Park.
Hawaii Essential Information
Prepare for your Hawaii vacation with our essential travel info
Population | 1,427,538 |
---|---|
Max Temp Winter | 79.7°F |
Max Temp Summer | 86.18°F |
Top Sights | Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Waimea Canyon, Mauna Kea Observatory, USS Missouri Memorial, Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, USS Arizona Memorial, Kaanapali Beach, Aloha Tower, Diamond Head, Haleakala National Park, University of Hawaii at Hilo, Wainapanapa State Park |
Why visit Hawaii
Hawaii Hotel Deals
Reviewed on Sep 27, 2024
Reviewed on Sep 26, 2024
Reviewed on Sep 27, 2024
Frequently asked questions
Discover the most popular places to visit in Hawaii
Waikiki Beach
Pack your shorts or bikini and surf, swim, or just sit back under a palm tree and enjoy the Aloha spirit at Hawaii’s most famous beach.
Ala Moana Center
You can enjoy some retail therapy with a trip to Ala Moana Center, a popular shopping spot in Honolulu. Discover the area's beautiful sunsets, or seek out its surfing spots.
Kaanapali Beach
As one of the highest-ranking luxury beaches in the U.S., this stunning stretch of sand with crystal-clear water is lined with high-end hotels and shops.
What to do in Hawaii
Waikiki Catamaran Cruise (Daytime & Sunset)
Full-Day Oahu Sightseeing and Local Food Tour
Waikiki Beach Glass Bottom Boat Cruise
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