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Step 1
Read about Hawaii’s island and offerings, so you know what best suits you. The official Hawaii tourism website (see Resources) is a great place to start.
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Step 2
Decide when you want to go to Hawaii. For many people, work and school schedules dictate when to travel, but these are often the most busy and expensive times.
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Step 3
Compare prices. Keep in mind that late spring and early fall are generally the cheapest times to visit.
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Step 4
Book your trip with a travel agent who can help answer all of your questions about the area and activities. Alternatively, if you would like to plan your trip yourself, use an online travel broker or buy directly from the hotels and airlines. Using a travel agent might be easier and less time consuming, particularly if you plan to visit multiple islands or stay at a variety of hotels.
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Step 5
Bring a raincoat and an umbrella if you are traveling during Hawaii’s rainy season, which lasts from November till March.
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Step 6
Take an extra suitcase or bag to fit the souvenirs you likely will buy in the islands.
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Step 7
Reserve a rental car if you plan to do a lot of exploring on your own. Alternatively, many people find the bus system an economical and fun way to get around.
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Step 1
Change your watch when you arrive. Hawaii is two hours behind Pacific Time.
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Step 2
Soak up the sun while relaxing on the beach. There’s plenty to choose from, from the secluded Poipu Beach Park on Kauai to Oahu’s famous Waikiki Beach, where people-watching and learning to surf are among the popular tourist activities.
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Step 3
Explore the islands by hiking, biking, horseback riding or off-roading. Walk to Waipoo Falls in the Waipio Valley on Hawaii’s Big Island. Or take a 4-wheel adventure to Lanai’s Garden of the Gods for spectacular scenery.
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Step 4
Get active! Hawaii is a sportsman’s paradise. Play a round of golf at one of the beautiful courses, including the Jack Nicklaus-designed The Challenge at Manele on Lanai. Try windsurfing, snorkeling, scuba diving or deep sea fishing.
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Step 5
Learn about Hawaii’s past with a visit to Pearl Harbor on Oahu or Mo'okini Heiau, one of Hawaii’s most sacred sites. Witness the geological wonders of Hawaii at one of its active volcanoes, such as Kilauea on the Big Island.
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Step 6
Eat the local fare. Try some poi, a staple in Hawaii made from taro. Hawaii’s culinary delights are flavored by many peoples, including several Asian cultures. Spam is also a favorite in Hawaii.
