Tag: travel Hawaii

Hyatt Regency Maui Resort Ultimate Review: Everything You Need to Know Before Booking

Post author By Hannah

When it comes to a Maui vacation, there’s so many different hotel, resort, and Airbnb options to choose from. If you’re planning to splurge on a resort, it’s nice to know exactly what you’re going to get! The Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa sits right on the southern stretch of Kāʻanapali Beach, and it combines a prime oceanfront location with the kind of amenities that make a stay feel like a delightful escape. From the moment you arrive, there’s a sense of relaxing tropical charm—towering palm trees, open-air spaces, and sweeping ocean views that set the tone for a dreamy Hawaiian getaway.

In this review, we’ll dive into everything the Hyatt Regency Maui has to offer— from the rooms to sprawling pool areas to the wide variety of dining experiences, and all the inclusions, activities, and amenities in between. Plus, for any World of Hyatt members looking to redeem club passes, we’ll also touch on the Regency Club and what you can expect there. Whether you’re considering booking your first trip to Maui or you’ve stayed at other Kāʻanapali resorts and are curious how the Hyatt compares, this review is designed to give you a complete picture of what it’s like to stay here.

Aloha sign in the entry breezeway at Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa

All About Location

In Maui, there are a few different “resort areas”. Kāʻanapali Beach is arguably one of Maui’s most iconic stretches of sand. The Hyatt Regency Maui enjoys one of the best spots along its golden shoreline. The beach itself is inviting— perfect for long walks, swimming, snorkeling, or taking in the sunset. Plus is boats a view of the neighboring islands: Lānaʻi and Molokaʻi!

Kāʻanapali Beach is known for being a more lively area– especially compared to Kapalua or Wailea; however, the Hyatt Regency’s most-southern end location means it feels a little more relaxed compared to the busier central stretch near Whalers Village. It’s certainly still within walking distance of shops, dining, and evening entertainment, but it feels more secluded than some of the resorts more centrally located on the beach. It’s a perfect balance of convenience and beachy tranquility that makes the Hyatt Regency Maui rather appealing.

Kāʻanapali Beach is located on the western coast of the island, which enjoys lots of sun and nice weather, but it’s not the most centrally located. This means individuals looking to drive the Road to Hana or visit the Haleakala summit might want to spend a night or two in Kahului or Kula before heading West. It’s definitely not impossible to see and do everything you want (being based out of Kāʻanapali), but you’d expect some extra drive time.

Roomy Rooms

As with any resort, there are an array of rooms and suites to choose from. We booked our room with Hyatt points, snagging a basic “The King” room, and honestly it was every bit as polished as the photos promised—if not better. The space was clean, bright, and welcoming, with small modern touches and plenty of room to settle in comfortably.

Traveling with a toddler, we also appreciated how easy it was to request a crib; the staff promptly delivered a fully assembled pack ‘n play right to our door, which made settling in rather seamless.

The bathroom was well-appointed too, with a modern design that felt fresh and practical. Counter space was generous enough to spread out toiletries, and the rainfall-style shower added a touch of luxury after long days in the sun.

All rooms feature a private balcony, which is a perfect place to unwind. Whether it was sipping coffee in the morning or enjoying some little toddler snuggles as the sun set, the balcony gave us a quiet moment to soak in the beauty of Maui in the peace of our room.

Together with the comfortable bed and thoughtful amenities, these details made the room feel like a peaceful space, within the larger resort.

Staying Cool at the Pool

The pool area at the Hyatt Regency Maui is actually one of the deciding reasons we chose to stay here. We fel there were so many fun, unique pool areas— waterfalls, a 150-foot waterslide (our toddler didn’t go down the slide but my grown adult husband went more than once), a whirlpool, a rope bridge, and an interactive sandy-bottom children’s pool. Knowing we were bringing a kiddo along for the ride, the pool set-up was a definitely selling point, and it did not disappoint!

Just because it’s kid-friendly doesn’t mean it’s a devolved madhouse out on the pool deck. For those looking to relax, the pool area is large, so there’s plenty of space and loungers to go around. There’s also cabanas available for rent if you want a little extra comfort and shade.

Just beyond the pool area, the resort opens directly onto Kāʻanapali Beach, where soft sand and calm waters make it easy to spend the day swimming, snorkeling, or simply enjoying the ocean views and the nearby islands. Having both a dynamic pool scene and immediate beach access creates a best-of-both-worlds experience. It’s the essence of a luxe Maui vacation experience.

Dining: Good Eats on Vacation

For something more casual, Ūmalu is the poolside restaurant and bar, offering tropical cocktails and a menu of burgers, sandwiches, and lighter fare that you can enjoy without straying far from the water. This is the most laid-back restaurant option as you can wander over, straight from your pool lounger or beach-side relaxation. Food and drinks here are more or less what you’d expect— good enough to hit the spot but not necessarily the best burger or cocktail you’ve ever had.

The Swan Court is a breakfast buffet with open-air seating. It’s a lovely way to start the day— especially with the koi ponds and swans gliding past nearby. The space transitions to become Son’z Steakhouse at 5pm, where classic steak and seafood dishes are paired with an upscale yet relaxed ambiance. While breakfast is first come, first serve, reservations are recommended for dinner. We actually ate breakfast at the Regency Club (more on this below) and explored more off–resort options for dinner, so the location and atmosphere of the restaurant were groovy, but we can’t attest to the deliciousness of the food.

The resort’s signature restaurant is Japengo— serving up fresh sushi, seafood, and Asian-inspired dishes. It’s the kind of spot that works just as well for a special dinner as it does for a relaxed evening meal after a day in the sun… or perhaps fun a cocktail to end the night. We just grabbed a drink here, but the service was great and it has a fun ambiance!

Bonus options

It’s also worth noting, there’s a Honolulu Coffee shop on the resort grounds. There’s also a convenience store of sorts that sells different snacks and drinks as well as some pre-made sandwiches, salads, spam musubis, etc. For this pregnant-mama-on-vacation, the Dips Ice Cream Bites were an unexpected treat that really hit the spot. Overall, the collection of options here was actually pretty impressive and provided a nice alternative.

A Lovely Luʻau

The Hyatt Regency Maui puts on the Drums of the Pacific Luʻau, and it’s so much more than just dinner and a little dancing— it’s a robust cultural experience. The luʻau includes a variety of island-inspired dishes, from kalua pork to Paniolo beef to fresh island fish dishes. The evening’s entertainment brings the stories of Hawaiʻi to life through music and performance. If you’ve never been to a luʻau, it’s an awesome way to enjoy a fabulous meal and enjoy a glimpse into Hawaiian and Polynesian culture.

The luʻau takes place right on the resort property, so it’s easy to find!

Resort Fee & Complimentary Activities

This Hyatt charges a resort fee of $49/day, but in doing so, they offer a thoughtful lineup of complimentary activities. Daily programming often includes things like lei-making workshops, hula lessons, or talks that dive into Hawaiian history and traditions. There are kid-friendly crafts and games, but there’s also some more adult-leaning activities, like yoga on the lawn. Visitors of all ages are likely to be drawn to the resort’s resident penguins and parrots.

Activities are offered all throughout the day. The full PDF is linked here, with descriptions of each item on the calendar. The 2025 schedule is detailed below, but you can access all resort activity information here.

*schedule via hyattmaui.ipoolside.com* (linked above)

Sign-ups are available on a same-day, first-come, first-served basis at the Recreation & Pool Desk. Most activities are open to guests ages 4 and up (children must be accompanied by an adult); however, ukulele lessons are available for ages 7 and up.

The resort also provides easy access to its fitness center, as well as the tennis and pickleball courts, making it simple to stay active or relaxed depending on your mood. While we didn’t participate in any racquet sports, we did take advantage of the gym. It’s decently robust— perhaps a little dated, but there’s new Peloton bikes and more than enough equipment to keep you feeling fit on vacation.

For the life of me, I don’t know why the resort fee isn’t just included in the daily rate, but perhaps that’s simply above my hospitality knowledge pay-grade. Below is everything your resort fee covers/includes.

Money Please: Paid Experiences

The Hyatt Regency Maui also offers a handful of different paid experiences, like ‘Maui Poke History and Tasting’, ‘Tour of the Stars’, or ‘Mixology Experience’, as well have some fun seasonal offerings too— such as an Oktoberfest night.

As one might expect, there’s also a concierge desk that can aid in an array of booking options… everything from snorkeling and sunset cruises to guided hikes and helicopter tours. You can also book private cabanas for the day— there’s a few different options to choose from.

A Day at the Spa, Oooo La La

The Spa at the Hyatt Regency Maui is tucked in the serene, southern corner of the resort, with both indoor treatment rooms and oceanfront cabanas. Offering both salon and spa services, there’s quite the menu of massages, facials, body treatments, pedicure, and more if you’re looking to treat yourself (see for yourself here).

We didn’t indulge in any spa experiences this trip, but a massage is always tempting!

Regency Club

If you’re a World of Hyatt member, and have club passes to burn, the Regency Club here is definitely a worthwhile spot to put them to use.

The continental breakfast spread is solid, with different fresh fruit options available every morning. We visited for a few days in mid-June and never had an issue finding a place to sit. By comparison, the Swan Court breakfast buffet is $40/person for adults and $16/person for children (over 5). I have no doubt the Swan Court breakfast is tasty, but this is an awesome way to enjoy a great breakfast with a beautiful view AND save some money.

The afternoon snacks are by far the lightest spread, but if you’re looking for an apple, bag of chips, cookie, etc to take the edge off, it does the trick! There’s no dinner, but they do serve some hearty hors d’oeuvres that could certainly serve as a light dinner— for example one night was a southwest salad and empanadas, but there was also assorted veggies to munch on as well as a charcuterie-board-esque meat, cheese, and bread spread. The afternoon snacks were pretty much the same every day that we were there, but the hors d’oeuvres differed from night to night!

Overall, the Regency Club provides a private space to relax and eat, with indoor and outdoor seating. It really feels like its own little oasis in the resort. The Club is well-staffed, with ample attention to the buffet. It was so sweet to have individuals remember our son’s name from one day to the next! We had nothing but lovely experiences when we were here— we even got to try a yellow watermelon one morning!

*living like a little king in his high chair*

Overall Impression

Accommodations in Hawaii are expensive, and staying in a resort is definitely not a budget option. You’d be hard-pressed to stay at the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa for less than $500/night, when paying cash prices. Compared to other resorts of a similar price point, the Hyatt Regency has a more secluded location along Kaanapali Beach, rooms are modern and well-kept, the property as a whole is well maintained, and they have an impressive array of included activities for guests to enjoy. We would 1000% stay here again!

It’s worth noting, we did book this trip with Hyatt points, so we actually paid $0 for our stay here, which makes it even easier to find amazing value in our stay here. This is currently an Award Category 6 hotel, meaning it costs 21k-29k points to book depending on the time of year. Using points, this feels like an even more incredible value!

If you’re new to the world of points travel, you can check out our blog post on Booking a 1-Week Hawaii Vacation with Points.

All in all, the Hyatt Regency Maui is a relaxing resort, and a perfect spot make the most of your Hawaii vacation. While there are loads of luxe stays on Maui, the Hyatt Regency is a solid contender— especially for anyone looking to stay on Kaanapali Beach. From the unique welcome leis to the variety of included activities to the amazing oceanfront location, you won’t be disappointed by the fun, relaxing ambiance.

If you’re looking for some guidance in your Maui trip planning, check out our four day Maui itinerary. Happy travels!

written by Hannah

Hannah traded the warm beaches of southwest FL for the outdoor adventure locale that is Bend, OR. Despite the distance, Hannah maintains her bossy big sister role with regular phone calls to keep up with all the little sister shenanigans. Notoriously chatty with her patients as well, Hannah stays busy as a physical therapist, but loves making time to explore newfound hikes. These days she has some extra pack weight; however, Xavier is notorious for being unimpressed by sweeping vistas.

Tags Maui, travel Hawaii, travel Maui

lifestyle

How to Book A 1-Week Hawai’i Vacation with Points

Post author By Hannah

Dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway but having nightmares about the price tag? The good news is, those turquoise waters, lush landscapes, and golden sunsets don’t have to drain your savings. You can use points and miles to cover flights, hotels, and even rental cars, turning a dream trip into an affordable reality. Whether you’ve been collecting rewards for years or are just starting to dip your toes into the world of “travel hacking”, Hawai’i is one of the best destinations to maximize value. This post will walk you through how to make your vacation to the islands more attainable—without sacrificing the aloha spirit. A 1-week Hawai’i vacation might be more attainable than you originally thought!

If you are new to the world of points travel, we will explain points and miles redemption in a way that’s very beginner friendly. For those that have dabbled in points travel a bit, you might find some information you already know, but we have some awesome nuggets about how to stretch your points as far as possible (hint: if doesn’t always involve booking travel in the ‘award portal’).

When you’re traveling there’s five categories of expenses to consider: flights, accommodations, rental car/transportation, food, and activities. Using points to travel can significantly reduce the cost of your trip, but it’s important to know that we are not boosting a “hack” for a completely free trip. We can certainly teach you how to use miles to book flights and hotels. This accounts for a huge part of the budget for a Hawai’i trip. Depending on how long you’ve been saving up your miles, you may also have enough to cover your rental car too!

*As a disclaimer, there are no affiliate links in this blog post. We’re not associated with Delta, Chase, or Hyatt in any way. We simply live to evangelize credit card points/miles travel, and these are redemption avenues that we have found to have the best value— when traveling to Hawai’i.*

Getting There: Flights Baby

First, let’s talk about flights! If you are completely starting from scratch, without any credit card points to your name, there is a bit of strategy involved. Where you live and what airlines service your local airport will determine which airline credit card makes the most sense for you to procure. Since Minneapolis is a Delta hub we have a Delta gold card to help accrue miles more quickly.

Getting Your Toes Wet

We recommend signing up for a card when the sign on bonus is better than their “usual offer”. For example, don’t open a card for 50k miles, when you could receive 80k miles as a sign on bonus!

We have the Delta Gold card, and we like it for a few reasons. First and foremost, if you’re starting from scratch the sign-up bonus will go a long way in your journey to get to Hawai’i. Additionally, all of the Delta cards with annual fees (i.e. Gold, Platinum, Reserve), receive 15% off the miles price of an airplane ticket. Fifteen percent might not seem like much, but it can make a difference!

Additionally, for anyone that’s new to the credit card points “game”, the idea of paying an annual fee for a credit card can seem a little strange, so the delta gold card can be a nice introduction as you don’t have to pay for the annual fee in the first year.

Wait, What’s a Sign-Up Bonus?

To entice travelers and spenders, credit card companies will offer a Sign-Up Bonus. You can see this above “Earn 80,000 Bonus Miles, after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within your first 6 months.” Delta and American Express will “give” you 80k miles for opening up the branded credit card… only if you meet the detailed spending requirement.

For many adults, you will generally find you’re not hard-pressed to spend $3k over the course of 6 months. Instead of making purchases with a debit card, just pay for them with your credit card! Its goes without saying but you will definitely want to ensure you are either paying your card off at the end of the month *OR* have automatic payments ensure your balance is getting paid in full each month.

Credit cards are an awesome way to accrue points and free travel experiences; however, credit card spending should always be done responsibly. Please be mindful and careful not to over-commit to financial purchases beyond one’s means.

Earn More Miles!

Once you have your sign-up bonus figured out, every purchase you make on the card is earning you more miles. The general rule is that for every dollar spent, you earn a point or in Delta’s case, a Skymile. For the Delta Gold card, you can actually earn 2 Skymiles for every dollar spent at restaurants, grocery stores, and on Delta purchases.

Redeemin’ and Schemin’

Once you have at the very least earned your sign on bonus, it’s time to start looking for a way to spend those Skymiles. The search features on Delta’s website are pretty user-friendly and allow you to check the calendar for best prices/redemption with ease.

Be sure to click ‘Shop with Miles’ and ‘My Dates are Flexible’. Points and miles trips tend to work best when you have a bit of flexibility. For example, you can see in the search bar, I looked up February 17th-24th, but the search feature automatically shows a variety of different permutations in a similar time window. If you skew the arrival and departure each back a single day, you can travel for 3,600 less Skymiles… might be worth it!

What makes this even better, is the additional 15% off you receive for having a Delta branded card, so that ticket would only cost you 23,600 Skymiles. If the sign-up bonus gets you 80k Skymiles and you find RT tickets for under 40k miles/person… you’ve got flights covered for two excited vacationers! There is a small fee of $12/ticket for taxes, but this is pretty minimal compared to what the tickets would otherwise cost.

Flights? DONE!

Stay a While: Hotels

One of our favorite hotel companies to book through when traveling with points is Hyatt. First and foremost, we’ve only had positive experiences staying at Hyatts– not just the hotels and resorts themselves but the customer service we have received has been excellent as well. Another huge plus? Compared to other hotel partners, the redemption rate for even the most posh of the Hyatt brands is beyond reasonable for what you receive in return.

Accruing Hyatt Points

There’s two ways to accrue points for redemption at Hyatt properties. The more obvious of the two is signing up for a World of Hyatt credit card. This card’s “normal” sign-up bonus is 30,000 points, after spending $3,000 in the first three months of opening the card. To entice you to spend more, you can earn up to an additional 30k points by spending $15k (i.e. for the first 6 months of having the card, all purchases earn double points). This card does have a $95 annual fee. While this isn’t a bad offer, it’s not exactly the strongest sign-up bonus offer. If you’re new to the world of credit-card points travel, this is not the top card we’d recommend.

In all fairness to the Hyatt card, you do receive a free night at any Category 1–4 Hyatt hotel or resort every year on your card anniversary, so as long as you actually use your free night stay, this benefit alone covers the cost of the annual fee. It’s just…. we’re trying to spend a week in Hawai’i and 30k points just isn’t quite enough.

Chasing those Hyatt Points

Chase is the only credit card company that maintains a partnership with Hyatt for transferring point balances. In order to do so, you must have one of Chase’s ‘premium’ cards: Chase Sapphire Preferred, Chase Sapphire Reserve, or Chase Ink Business Preferred (i.e. a card with an annual fee– their “free” cards don’t transfer to Hyatt).

The Chase Sapphire Preferred card, generally speaking, is known to be one of the best travel cards for point accrual and redemption— or at least in its annual fee price point ($95/year). The “normal” sign-up bonus is 60,000 points, after spending $5,000 in the first three months of opening the card, but once or twice a year, Chase will increase the sign-up bonus to 75k+ points. Taking a trip with points does take some intentional planning, and this is a piece of that puzzle. I recommend waiting to sign up for this card, until they have an elevated bonus offer.

The Chase card has lots of benefits besides the ability to transfer points to Hyatt. This includes rental car insurance, some limited trip insurance, delayed luggage insurance, lost luggage reimbursement, etc. They also have 2 other hotel partners as well as 13 airline partners you can transfer points to— in addition to being able to book travel through their award portal.

*we love using Chase points for flights too— nothing like flying first class home from London!*

Where to Stay

Of the four main Hawaiian Islands, three islands have Hyatt properties. You’ll find that your points have the opportunity to go the farthest on O’ahu. For Hyatt’s points system, hotels and resorts are sorted into different categories— 1 through 8, with a category 1 hotel being the least expensive and a category 8 hotel or resort being the most expensive. Hyatt’s all-inclusive properties follow a letter system, but that’s irrelevant here as there are no all-inclusive Hyatt resorts in Hawai’i.

Now, there is only one category 4 hotel in Hawai’i, and it’s the Hyatt Place Waikiki Beach in O’ahu. Hyatt has a somewhat dynamic pricing aspect to their points system, but you can largely expect a room at this hotel to cost you ~15k points/night. That means for a one week stay, you’d need 105k points. Now, the sign-up bonus should get you most of the way there, but it might take a little bit of time and responsible spending to get the rest of the points you need. Not to be too redundant, but a points trip doesn’t come together immediately— it definitely takes time and a bit of intentional planning!

We stayed here in June 2025, and felt the value was 10000% there. Meals in Hawai’i can certainly add up, so the complimentary breakfast goes a long way. For what it’s worth, it was a pretty nice breakfast spread with robust options– including lots of fresh fruit! This Hyatt hotel also charges a daily “destination fee” ($38/night), in addition to the nightly room rate; however, you do NOT have to pay this fee when you book your room with points. The destination fee covers all of the below amenities.

Any Cons?

Generally speaking, we had an overwhelmingly positive experience here, and we would certainly recommend this hotel to friends. “Cons” are pretty mild in nature. This hotel is not riiiiight on the beach, but it’s a very short, easy walk to get to the beach, so this wasn’t really a negative for us. After extensively reading google reviews on the hotel prior to our arrival, I had seen people mention the elevators could take a while, but we never ran into an issue with this!

The pool here is closed for future construction plans (June ’25), but they do provide access to a pool at another nearby hotel. This might be a little cumbersome if you have a kiddo that’s really excited to splash around in the pool at the end of the day. Finally, our hotel room itself felt a little on the smaller side, compared to other Hyatt hotels we’ve stayed at in the past, but it was exactly as pictured and described. The ‘standard room free night’ is their ‘King Bed City View (with Sofa Bed)’, which you can check out here— you can even take a 3D tour.

Alternate Options

Let the record show, if you have more Chase or Hyatt points to burn, the Hyatt Centric Waikiki Beach and Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa are both category 5 properties on O’ahu that are options to stay at as well. These hotel/resort options will cost around 20k points/night.

The Grand Hyatt Kauai—category 8—is the only option on Kauai. We’ve stayed here a couple times (Jan ’22 & Feb ’22) and really enjoyed it— you can read our full review here.

There are 5 options on Maui, and they are all category 6 and above, so not exactly budget-core points options. That being said, the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa is lovely and a great redemption value— if you have extra points to burn and are open to island hopping. Unfortunately there are no Hyatt hotels or resorts on Big Island.

Let’s Get to Booking: Finding availability

To get the ball rolling, head to hyatt.com. You’ll want to click on the “Explore” tab and then select “Hotels & Resorts”

Once you’re on the explore page, type “Hyatt Place Waikiki Beach” into the search bar and click on the hotel option that pops up.

This will bring up the three properties on O’ahu. In the Hyatt Place Waikiki Beach box, click on the points calendar link. This will take you to a calendar page that allows you to see reward night availability and cost of the hotel each night.

If you remember from our flight search earlier, the optimal dates were February 18th to February 25th. This works perfectly with the hotel availability! You’ll notice early in February, the cost is 18k points/night. This reflects the dynamic nature of Hyatt’s pricing— “peak season” dates sometimes have a slightly higher cost, but it’s not an outrageous jump.

booking a 1-week Hawai'i vacation via Hyatt

Transfer Those points

Now that you have confirmed availability for the dates that you need, it’s time to get to booking! But wait… you have Chase points, how do you use those to book a Hyatt hotel? First you need to make a free, World of Hyatt account. Remember that account number, because you’re going to need it!

Then, head over to your Chase account and click on your Rewards portal.

Once you’re in the Ultimate Reward portal, click on the far right “Travel” tab, and go to the “Transfer points to partners” link.

Once you’re on this page, click on the Hotels, and select Hyatt.

From there, you go through a 3-step process, inputting your World of Hyatt account number and selecting how many points you want to transfer. You’ll want to double, triple check your math on how many points you need, because once you transfer the points to Hyatt, you can’t transfer them back to Chase. It’s a one-way deal!

Points can take up to 7 days to transfer, but our experience is that it’s usually within a couple hours.

Transferring Points Vs. the Ultimate Rewards Portal

Before you transfer your points, you might think to yourself “What about the Chase travel portal? Why not just book it through there?” That would be a reasonable question, and it’s always worth checking to see what the points cost would be, but it’s almost always a worse deal.

As you can see below, for the exact same room, the exact same nights, the points cost is over 26k points more expensive, PLUS an additional $289-$314 in taxes…. PLUS this rate doesn’t include or waive the destination fee, so that would be an additional $38/day ($266 total). While it’s a bit of a hoop to jump through to transfer your points, it’s more than worth it to save you over $500 AND 26k points.

Back to Hyatt: Finish the Booking

Now that you have confirmed the availability AND that you’ve found the best price. It’s time to sign back into your Hyatt account. Enter the hotel, dates, and be sure to click “use points”.

The free award night option will pop up towards the bottom of the page. Smash that “Select and Book” button. It’s time for things to start getting official!

Double check everything one last time on your confirmation page. Correct dates? Right hotel? All that’s left is to press the “Book My Stay” button at the bottom of the page.

As a note, transferring your points from Chase to Hyatt is a one-way journey. However, as you can see in the cancellation policy, if something comes up, you do have free cancellation up to a week before your stay. The points would remain in your Hyatt account, but it *is* a refundable booking!

Additional Costs: Transportation

Your hotel stay is entirely covered by points and your flight cost is just over $10 in taxes. So far the Hawai’i vacation budget is looking pretty good! What’s the next big cost to consider? A rental car!

Now, of all the Hawaiian islands, O’ahu is the only one with good enough public transit that you *could* potentially use it to get around. That being said, it’s hard to beat the flexibility you gain with having your own car, but it’s worth mentioning there’s an alternate option. We didn’t utilize The Bus, but if you’re interested, you can learn more about routes, timetables, etc here.

Back to the rental car, depending on how many Chase points you have accrued, you might be able to cover your vehicle as well. For a one-week rental (for the same dates as the flights & hotel), it will cost you 53,264 points. Now, this isn’t a bad redemption value, but it’s worth shopping around a bit to see if you can find a better deal.

For example, if you have a Costco membership, you could book an economy car for a week for under $375. Even though Chase reflects the value at $666, if you can find something else similar for cheaper, it’s worth considering. Apples to apples, the 53k points have the potential to be worth more than $375, so we’d probably just pay cash to rent the car. That’s a personal choice though— we’re just trying to make you aware of your options.

Sneaky Extras

Depending on how detailed you are with your budgeting, you will also want to account for the cost of gas. The exact car you rent as well as how adventurous your exploration itinerary is, will affect the gas consumption. We’d recommend budgeting $100-$200. Gas prices on O’ahu do tend to be higher than on the mainland!

Another car-related cost is parking. Waikiki Beach is definitely a bumpin’ place, so you’ll need to find a garage to park your car in overnight. The cost here ranges from $35-50/night, so if you rent a car for the week, parking will run you $245-350.

Blowing the Budget: Food, Drinks, & Activities

The last costs to consider are meals and activities. The cost here is really variable as to what your trip vision-board entails. O’ahu has so many beautiful beaches and unique hikes, so these are low-cost/no-cost adventures that allow you to take in the Hawai’i landscape for almost nothing. Inversely, there are also some amazing tours you can splurge on— snorkeling with sharks, whale watching, ATV rides, sunset catamarans…. the list goes on!

Food and drink spending expectations differ for everyone. As one might expect, meals on O’ahu tend to be a little more expensive than what you might pay on the mainland. Plus, sometimes it’s fun to be a little decadent on vacation. We found you a hotel with complimentary breakfast, so you can burn the rest of your food budget on lunch and dinner!

Hawai’i is never going to be a cheap vacation, but it might just be a little more affordable than you originally thought! Spending with credit cards should always be done responsibly, but it’s always amazing to me the things you can experience for free… just because you paid for expenses with a credit card and accrued some points.

We recently visited O’ahu and Maui, so we weren’t quite on O’ahu for a week, but we have a pretty robust 3-day itinerary if you’re looking for a place to start your planning. Happy travels!

written by Hannah

Tags points travel, travel Hawaii

lifestyle

Family Travel Made Easy: Packing for Hawai’i With a Toddler

Post author By Hannah

Packing for Hawai’i with a toddler might feel a little daunting—between beach time, island adventures, and keeping your little one comfortable on long travel days, there’s a lot to think about. Regardless of which islands you plan to visit, the general laid-back vibe of Hawai’i is perfect for families. Making sure you have the right gear can be the difference between a smooth vacation and one filled with avoidable stress. From sun-safe clothing to toys that keep your toddler entertained on flights, a little preparation goes a long way.

This guide is designed to help streamline the packing process so you can pack with confidence, and minimize your “oh shoot I forgot about xyz” moments. We’ll walk you through the essentials to bring, as well as a couple helpful extras that often get overlooked. Plus a few things you can confidently leave at home. With the right balance of practicality and comfort, you’ll be ready to make the most of island life with your toddler in tow.

Our son has taken 21 flights in his first 20 months, so while we are certainly not the most seasoned travel parents out there, we have flown with him at a variety of ages and stages. Admittedly, the flights we took at 15, 18, and 20 months have been the most challenging, BUT it’s important to remember to give yourself (and your toddler) grace.

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In the Airport & On The Plane

Taking the packing list one step at a time. Before you can enjoy Hawai’i, you must first make it to Hawai’i. Being prepared for the airport and subsequent flight can make or break the start of your trip!

‘Blowout Bag’

We’re getting too real too quickly here, but a toddler pooping on the plane is NOT an ideal situation. We’ve managed to only run into this once, but I like to keep a ‘blowout bag’ ready to go… just so we’re prepared in a worst-case-scenario situation. I recommend still having your diaper bag 200% stocked compared to what you anticipate needing (you want to be prepared in the event of an unexpectedly long layover), but I also recommend packing an additional ‘blowout bag’.

This should all be in a gallon-sized ziplock bag and include the following: 2 diapers, a half to completely full pack of wipes, a spare outfit, 2 doggy poop bags (or 2 ziplock sandwich baggies), and a disposable changing pad. The doggy/sandwich bags are for a dirty diaper to go in one and soiled clothes to go in the other. The disposable changing pad can be convenient to ensure the post-diaper change clean up is as smooth as possible. Perhaps I just over-worry, but I wouldn’t want to be scrambling for anything in the midst of a poo-mergency!

Painter’s tape

Masking tape or painter’s tape is a surprisingly versatile item. On the plane, it’s an inexpensive and creative toy—toddlers love peeling pieces off, sticking them to the seat tray, etc. It can be a nice way to keep little hands busy!

Once you arrive at your hotel or Airbnb, that same roll of tape becomes a quick toddler-proofing tool. You can use it to cover outlets, secure dangling cords, or tape shut cabinets you’d rather your curious explorer not open. Lightweight and easy to pack, painter’s tape is a simple ‘hack’ for both mid-flight entertainment AND child-proofing.

Water bottle

Bringing a water bottle for your toddler on the plane is perhaps common sense, but you do not want to forget it! Air travel can be dehydrating, and having a familiar bottle on hand means your kiddo can have water whenever they need it— without relying on flight attendants. We recommend a bottle with a secure, latch-style lid (unlike straw-only bottles— we learned this lesson the hard way), as these are less likely to leak or spray water when cabin pressure changes during takeoff and landing.

Snacks

When it comes to packing snacks for a plane ride with a toddler, a little planning can go a long way in keeping everyone content mid-flight. Simple, mess-free options like fruit pouches, Cheerios, apple slices, and Goldfish crackers are great staples—Goldfish, in particular, can be useful since their saltiness often makes kids thirsty, which can encourage them to drink water and help with ear pressure during takeoff and landing. While berries are often a toddler favorite, they don’t always travel well and can easily get squished in a backpack, so sturdier options tend to hold up better.

It’s also worth thinking about how much space you have. If your ticket/airline status includes free checked luggage (or if you’re just generally not worried about suitcase room), bringing a week or two’s worth of your toddler’s go-to snacks can save you the hassle of searching once you arrive. On the flip side, if packing space is tight, just bring enough for the flight and the first couple of days—Hawai’i may feel far from home, but you’ll still find plenty of familiar snack brands at Safeway, Target, Costco, and other mainland-style stores once you’re on the islands. This way, you can balance convenience with practicality while ensuring your toddler always has something they’ll happily eat.

Toys

Bringing the right toys and activities for your toddler can make all the difference on a long flight or during downtime in Hawai’i. The key is to pack a mix of lightweight, engaging options that hold their attention without taking up too much space. Some of our favorites include peek-a-boo books and interactive books that talk or sing, since they combine play with a bit of learning.

Fidget toys, spinners, and Squigs are all excellent because they’re compact, versatile, and seem to hold attention and novelty longer. In addition, a small toy car can provide entertainment both on the plane as well as once touching down in Hawaii.

Stroller

Bringing your stroller (we love our jogger) with you and gate checking it—rather than sending it straight to your final destination—can make travel days much smoother, especially if you have a layover. Having the stroller available in the airport means your toddler has a comfortable place to rest, nap, or simply stay contained in the chaos of a busy terminal, giving you a break from carrying them between gates. Or if they want to stretch their legs, you can toss your backpack in the stroller and run after them unencumbered.

Once in Hawai’i, the stroller becomes just as helpful, not only for the obvious purpose of transporting your kiddo but also as a convenient way to haul all the extras that come with a beach or adventure day: towels, snacks, sunscreen, toys, and more. It saves your arms, keeps everything organized, and helps make outings feel far less overwhelming.

Band-aids

This is a small and easy item on the list, but having a small pack of band-aids can be useful for any unexpected boo-boos.

Small blanket

If you have room in your personal item, consider tucking a small blanket in with your things. It can be a nice layer to cover your kiddo if they fall asleep on the plane, or it can function as a little ‘pillow’ to keep their head from any hard spots when they’re trying to get comfortable. If your sweet sweet toddler falls asleep in your arms, it might be nice to have a small blanket to give you a little extra support, because sometimes those little bodies get heavy faster than you’d think!

For Exploration

Touch down in Hawai’i! Time to start enjoying the heck out of your tropical paradise. Everyone’s ideal itinerary is a little different, but there are some good essentials to keep in mind for your little peanut.

Bathing suits

In my humble opinion, a toddler’s bathing suit should cover as much skin as humanly possible, because it’s the easiest way to protect them from the sun! Especially in Hawai’i! There are some cute long-sleeve-onsies-with-shorts, but you can never go wrong with a rashguard shirt!

Hat

If your toddler will tolerate wearing any sort of hat, pack it!!! Not to be dramatic, but sun protection is so important for little skin. Plus hair can still be pretty thin in some toddlers, so the last thing they need is the crown of their head getting burned.

We keep trying to put hats on our toddler, but he yanks ’em off impressively fast (see above).

Swim diapers

Swim diapers are one of those toddler travel essentials that you definitely don’t want to forget when heading to Hawai’i. Unlike regular diapers, swim diapers are designed to contain accidents without swelling up in the water, making them a must-have for pool days or splashing around at the beach. Depending on how much your toddler loves (or hates) the water, their necessity might fluctuate, but if you’re going to be in Hawai’i for 1-2 weeks, you probably don’t need more than a dozen. Alternatively, you can stock up at a local store once you arrive. Since they’re lightweight and don’t take up much space, tossing a handful into your suitcase ensures you’re prepared right away.

Life jacket

If your child isn’t a strong swimmer, packing a life jacket is the best way to let them frolic in the water safely. When you google ‘toddler life jackets’, there’s loads of options that pop up, but you always want to make sure a jacket is US Coast Guard approved before purchasing it! Our son looooves this under 30lbs life jacket, but if your toddler is a bit older (or bigger), they might enjoy one that allows them to roll onto their stomach easier and practice swimming.

Sunshade

If you’re planning to have any Hawaiian beach days, a sunshade is a must. It creates a much-needed break from the strong island sun. While sunscreen and hats are important, having a shaded spot at the beach gives your little one a safe, comfortable place to rest, snack, or even nap without being directly exposed to UV rays.

It just generally makes beach days more enjoyable for the whole family— offering a cooler space to retreat to when the sand gets hot or the midday sun feels overwhelming. Those mid-day UV rays are strong! Lightweight and easy to pack down, a portable sunshade is more than worth the space it takes up in your luggage.

Roll-up mat

A roll-up outdoor blanket is the perfect counterpart to your sun shelter, creating a (relatively) clean and comfortable base for your shady beach setup. Unlike towels, which can shift around or bunch up in the sand, a big blanket gives your toddler plenty of space to sprawl out with toys, enjoy snacks, or take a break from playing in the water. It’s also handy for keeping bags, shoes, and other items off the sand. Getting a blanket that folds/rolls up easily ensures it’s lightweight, compact, and easy to carry. It shouldn’t add much bulk to your luggage, but it does make a difference in how relaxed and functional your beach days feel.

Shoes

I recommend packing three pairs of shoes for your toddler—sandals, water shoes, and sneakers. This should cover just about every activity you’ll encounter on a trip to Hawai’i. Sandals are perfect for everyday wear in the warm weather, whether you’re heading out to grab shaved ice or strolling along the resort paths. Water shoes are a game-changer at the beach or splash pads, protecting little feet from hot sand, slippery rocks, or unexpected sharp shells while still being quick to dry. Sneakers are always good to have as well— some sturdy support for outdoor exploration, running around playgrounds, or being the kind of big kid that goes walking through town on their own two feet.

we’re still working on good table etiquette

Outfits

I have less advice for trendy toddler ‘fits and more of a general recommendation to bring more outfits than days visited. If you plan to do laundry while you’re in Hawai’i, that obviously alters the suggestion, but I usually bring 150-200% (i.e. 15-20 little outfits for a 10 day trip) just to ensure we’re covered. You never know how sweaty, sticky, or wet a little person is going to get!

I would also recommend packing a long sleeve shirt or jacket. Hawai’i is thought of as being warm year round, but there’s certain destinations that get windy, chilly, or downright cold! In addition to warm layers, sometimes it’s also nice to have a long sleeve sun shirt or linen shirt to keep them protected from the sun, without overheating.

Hiking backpack

A hiking backpack/carrier is a game-changer for parents who want to explore Hawai’i’s trails and natural beauty without being limited by toddler stamina. Even short hikes can feel long for little legs, and having a carrier means your toddler can come along safely. Cinch those straps about as tight as you can to keep their body weight close to your center of mass, and you’ll cruise!

The carrier always seems to put our son to sleep, so we have a collection of photos of him just absolutely zonked in gorgeous places. It’s worth noting, these backpacks can get pricey, so it’s worth checking FB Marketplace as you can often find them here for a fraction of the original cost!

Sunscreen applicator

Everyone’s kiddo is different about having lotions put on. Our son currently doesn’t seem to mind when we lotion him up, but for any older toddlers more in a more stubbornly independent season, a little sunscreen applicator can be a nice way to help control the mess. We don’t own one, but just know it exists out in the world. You can also use a make-up sponge to dab sunscreen on a little face.

The Bedtime Routine

It’s all fun and games until your toddler is up at 3am, with a little body convinced it’s 7am. Making sure the bed time routine and experience is as familiar as possible to help your kiddo adjust.

Slumberpod

A SlumberPod can be a lifesaver when traveling with a toddler, especially if you’re all sharing one hotel room or Airbnb. It goes over your pack n’ play and creates a dark, private sleep space that helps block out light and distractions, making it much easier for your child to settle down at night (or nap during the day).

Bath soap/lotion

Sticking to your child’s usual bath routine while traveling can provide familiarity and be helpful in the midst of wild changes to their routine. Bringing their bath soap and lotion helps ensure you won’t run into any skin sensitivity issues with unfamiliar products… the last thing you want to be worried about is an unexpected rash or allergic reaction on vacation.

Sound machine

A portable sound machine is one of the easiest ways to create a consistent sleep environment for your toddler while away from home. It serves as a familiar cue that it’s bedtime, which is especially helpful when you’re changing time zones or routines. Ideally you’re located somewhere relatively quiet, but in case you encounter unexpected environmental chaos, the steady hum of white noise can mask disruptions and help your child sleep soundly.

Bedtime books & blankies

Packing a few favorite books or other small bedtime routine items can go a long way in helping your kiddo feel settled. Reading the same stories they enjoy at home or cuddling with a familiar stuffed animal gives them a sense of comfort and predictability, even when everything else feels new!

Packing For The Parents

How many times have you gotten your toddler dressed for the day, and you’re still looking like a ragamuffin? Perhaps that’s just me, but it definitely won’t be vacation YOU. Here’s a handful of packing considerations either for you or things that might make life a little easier for you.

Small hiking pack

A small hiking pack is a really handy item to bring along for outdoor adventures in Hawai‘i. Even on shorter trails, it’s nice to have a lightweight backpack where you can stash water, snacks, sunscreen, keys, and your phone without juggling everything in your hands. Many hikes on the islands are hot and can take longer than expected, so having the basics easily accessible keeps the outing more comfortable. It doesn’t need to be a big pack—just something small and practical that makes it easy to carry your essentials.

Tote bag

A simple tote bag is perfect for beach days in Hawai‘i. It gives you one central spot to toss all of your beachy items—like sunscreen, towels, toys, books, and snacks—so you’re not scrambling to keep track of everything as you head out the door. Easy to carry and quick to shake sand out of, a tote is a low-maintenance option that helps keep your beach essentials organized and within reach.

Clothes

Everyone’s ideal beach Hawai’i vacation differs… I can’t imagine visiting the Hawaiian archipelago and *not* going hiking or snorkeling. All of the Hawaiian islands tend to be pretty casual. A loose packing list would include a couple casual dresses (bonus if they are casual enough to double as a beach cover-up), a fun matching set, and perhaps one nice dress (or dressy outfit). You’ll also want to bring a few ‘workout attire’ outfits, if you plan to do any hiking. A sun shirt can also be nice to have— your toddler isn’t the only one that needs protection from the sun!

It can also be nice to have a lounge outfit or two packed. If you’ve spent a majority of the day outside, a comfy couch and some cool AC can be quite the relaxing indulgence before you head out to get dinner. A linen shirt is so multi-functional as it is the perfect layer on cooler mornings but it also acts as a nice cover up as well! Regardless of which island you plan to visit, you might want to consider packing a jacket. While Hawai’i is generally warm, there are volcanos you can summit that are cold and sometimes windy as well. Particularly Mauna Kea on Big Island– it’s not uncommon to see snow up there!

Bathing suit & Cover ups

A handful of bathing suits and a couple cover-ups is really all you need, but if you feel like indulging in a matching family moment, there’s a handful of different companies (like this one) that sell matching family outfits and bathing suits.

Shoes

At a bare minimum, you need a pair of sandals and a pair of sneakers. Depending on your island of choice, hiking boots may or may not be essential— for example we were VERY glad to have them for the Kalalau Trail in Kauai (rather muddy). Depending on what your itinerary holds, a pair of chacos, tevas, etc— something that acts as a sandal but can also be worn in the water, can be nice to avoid stepping on anything unexpected as you enter and exit the water. If you have lots of styled outfits planned a cuter or dressier sandal shouldn’t take up too much extra room in the suitcase.

Hat

This technically makes the list twice, but don’t forget a hat for yourself! A fun, wide-brimmed hat can even double as shade for your kiddo— if you’re snuggling them in close. The UV rays get stronggg during peak hours of the day, so you want to stay protected!

Portable Charger

A portable charger is a simple but super useful item to bring along when visiting Hawai‘i. Between using your phone for maps, taking endless photos, looking up restaurant recommendations, or keeping kids entertained (our son loooves Damien Marley’s NPR tiny desk concert), batteries can drain quickly. Since many adventures take you far from an outlet, and a backup power source ensures you’re never stuck with a dead phone.

Optional Extras:

Necessity is in the eye of the beholder. If you have an airline card or status that affords you free bags, take advantage! If you’re looking at your luggage thinking “how do we trim the excess here?!” There are the items we think of as being more optional in nature.

Packing for Hawai'i involves lots of bags— a toddler sitting on a suitcase with another suitcase and a stroller nearby — whenever we have free checked bags, they get *USED*!

Car seat

The car seat we use for our son is just spendy enough that we’re a little hesitant to check it and have it experience the full gamut of checked bag experiences. It’s typically an option to rent a car seat from the car rental company; however, this does have a cost associated with it. While it can feel like more of an up front “investment”, purchasing a second, cheaper (but still safe and well-rated car seat) can be a preferred option (this is the one we have).

First and foremost, you don’t have to worry about what has happened in this car seat before it made its way to your family, but more importantly most toddler car seats are good for a while, so in the long run it might be cheaper to just own a second car seat. They do fly for free, so there’s no extra charge incurred there!

Towels

Towels are one of those bulky items that you can almost always skip when packing for Hawai‘i. Most hotels and Airbnbs provide plenty of bath, pool, and even beach towels, so there’s no need to sacrifice valuable suitcase space lugging your own from home. The only exception might be a lightweight, quick-dry travel towel—these fold down small and can come in handy for spontaneous beach stops or hikes that end at a waterfall. Still, even that’s more of a “nice to have” than a true necessity. For the most part, you can confidently leave towels off your packing list and trust your accommodations to have you covered.

Snorkeling gear

Snorkeling gear falls into the “optional” category for a Hawai‘i packing list because it really depends on how often you plan to use it and how much space you have in your luggage. If you already own a set and know you’ll be snorkeling multiple times during your trip, it can be worth bringing along for convenience and comfort. However, snorkel gear is widely available to rent at beaches, resorts, and shops across the islands, making it easy to grab when you need it without hauling it through the airport.

Sunscreen & Bug spray

Sunscreen and bug spray are optional items on a Hawai‘i packing list because they’re easy to find once you arrive—most local shops, grocery stores, and even beach stands sell both. This means you can leave them behind to save space in your luggage, especially if you’re trying to avoid packing liquids. That said, if you’re particular about a certain brand, or if your toddler has sensitive skin and you already know which products work well, it’s worth bringing them from home. Having a trusted option on hand can give you peace of mind, while still knowing that if you run out or forget, replacements are never far away.

Diapers

Diapers are one of those optional items you can choose to pack or easily leave off your Hawai‘i list, depending on your preference. They’re also widely available at grocery stores, Targets, and Costcos across the islands, so there’s no need to sacrifice valuable suitcase space if you’d rather buy them once you land.

That said, if you don’t want the hassle of tracking down a store right away, a simple workaround is to strap a bag of diapers to your car seat when you check it—since car seats fly free, it’s an easy way to bring diapers along without taking up luggage space. Because both the car seat and diapers are toddler essentials, it feels like a practical packing hack rather than gaming the system. Ultimately, it’s about what makes your travel day less stressful: buying upon arrival or having a stash ready to go.

Hiking boots

Hiking boots may not be necessary for every traveler, but they can be a great addition if you plan to tackle Hawai‘i’s more rugged trails. Many island hikes include uneven terrain, mud, or steep inclines, and a sturdy pair of boots provides the grip and ankle support needed to navigate them safely. While sneakers are often fine for easier walks, boots can make a big difference in both comfort and confidence on more challenging routes. If hiking is on your itinerary, they’re well worth the suitcase space, but if you’re rolling your eyes at the idea of hiking on your beach vacation, leave the boots at home.

pack ‘N play

A pack and play is one item you can pretty confidently leave off your Hawai‘i packing list, as most hotels provide a crib upon request. Some Airbnbs also offer them, though it’s always best to double-check before booking to be sure. Since these sleep setups are bulky and awkward to travel with, relying on what your accommodations provide is more practical. When you’re organizing all of your stays, ensure each place has a safe sleep option for your toddler lined up in advance, so you can save both space and hassle.

Full List

Here’s the full list with everything above detailed, for anyone that likes a nice condensed version. Best of luck with all your packing— may your bags be light on their wheels!

Perhaps the best thing we brought to Hawaii with us was an extra pair of hands. Vacation with a toddler is many things… special, fun, adventurous, beautiful, and memorable— in spades! But it’s not exactly relaxing. My sister met us in Hawai’i, and I can 10000% recommend having a sibling tag along!

While we’ve visited all four of the bigger Hawaiian islands, we have only adventured to Oahu in Maui with a toddler. Admittedly, it does change the itineraries slightly (compared to pre-baby travels), but still totally, worth going. You can check out our Maui 4-day itinerary here and our three-day O’ahu itinerary here. Happy travels!

written by Hannah

Tags hawaii packing list, toddler travel, travel Hawaii

lifestyle

Four Days in Maui: How to See the Best of the Valley Isle

Post author By Hannah

Maui is an island that captures the imagination from the moment you arrive, with its dramatic contrasts of emerald valleys, golden beaches, and rugged volcanic peaks. Often referred to as the Valley Isle, Maui is a place where the natural beauty feels endless. Whether you’re gazing out at the vast Pacific, wandering beneath towering waterfalls, or standing on ancient lava rock. Maui is a destination that begs to be explored at a deliberate pace. Whether you’re drawn to natural wonders, underwater adventures, or simply the joy of being outdoors, spending four days in Maui offers an array of unique experiences.

While it would be beyond easy to spend a week or two enjoying alllll Maui has to offer; however, for those potentially trying to visit a couple islands in one trip, it’s certainly possible to capture the essence of Maui in a few days. Our best recommendation for a brief trip is spending the better part of three days exploring the island’s most unforgettable highlights, followed by a final, deliciously relaxing day.

Time of Year to Visit

Maui is a year-round destination, but tends to be busiest in the holiday months of December to March as well as the summer-loving months of June through August. While the winter months are the ‘wet season’ here, the leeward side of the island tends to remain pretty dry. This is true even in the rainier months. PLUS winter is when whales migrate down to Hawaii, which is always pretty special to see.

If you have the flexibility to visit in late spring, you might be able to experience Maui in the presence of less tourists. We were most recently there in mid-June, and did not find the extent of fellow visitors to be egregious. That being said, it certainly did not feel like a sleepy little island.

Catch Some Zzzzz’s

On shorter trips, it’s often easiest to stay based out of one location, to minimize the stress of relocating. However, to make the most of your time here, we recommend spending a night in Kula, just outside the Summit District of Haleakalā National Park.

We stayed at this Airbnb and can heartily attest to how amazing the location, property, and host were.

For the other nights, there’s two general areas that people stay in: West Maui (i.e. Kaanapali and Lahaina) and South-ish Maui (i.e. Kihei and Wailea). You really can’t go wrong at either location. We stayed at the Hyatt Regency Maui on Kaanapali Beach and really enjoyed everything about it. We visited with our 18 month old toddler, and found it to be delightfully kid-friendly, while still very much being a spot we’d return to without kiddos in tow.

If you have Hyatt points to spend, we felt the Hyatt Regency Maui was an excellent redemption. For a hotel with a nightly price that’s typically $500+/night, it’s always a little wild to know we wheeled and dealed our way in for freeee.

DAY ONE

The Road to Hāna is one of Maui’s most iconic adventures, but to truly enjoy it without rushing, an early start is essential. Leaving from the general Kahului area, the drive to Hāna itself can take about 2-3 hours without stops; however, that’s rarely the case, since the journey is all about pulling over for waterfalls, scenic lookouts, banana bread stands, and short hikes.

By hitting the road by 7am-8am, you’ll beat more of the morning of traffic. Generally speaking, you’ll also have better luck finding parking at popular stops. It also just gives you plenty of time to explore without worrying about racing the sunset. The earlier you go, the more you’ll actually enjoy the rhythm of the road and the quiet of the surroundings before tour vans and other travelers pile in.

Mana Foods

Mana Foods in Pāʻia is the perfect first stop on the journey to Hāna—not because it’s flashy or touristy, but precisely because it isn’t. This beloved local grocery store is packed with fresh, organic, and island-made goods, making it a one-stop shop to fuel up for the long day ahead.

You can grab a hearty breakfast from the deli, stock up on car-friendly snacks like trail mix, fresh fruit, or banana bread, and pick up cold drinks or kombucha to keep you hydrated on the winding road. If you’ve brought a cooler, even better! Mana’s prepared foods, hot bar, and grab-and-go lunches are ideal for a picnic later on the drive. It sets an authentic grounded tone for the day!

Ho‘okipa Beach Park

Just past mile marker 9 on the Hāna Highway, Hoʻokipa Beach Park is a legendary Maui landmark. It’s famous for its consistent trade‑wind powered surf and windsurfing— enticing enough to draw seasoned locals and pro athletes riding big, clean breakers right at the reef’s edge. For today, it’s a perfect spot to stop and spectate while you enjoy breakfast from one of the elevated lookout platforms or picnic areas.

Ke’anae Peninsula

The Ke‘anae Peninsula is absolutely worth pulling over for. With its dramatic coastline of jagged black lava rock and crashing waves, the views here are raw and cinematic— a beautiful contrast to the surrounding greenery and taro fields. It’s quieter than many other stops, giving you a chance to breathe and really take in the natural beauty without the crowds.

Ke‘anae isn’t just about the scenery—it’s also home to one of the most beloved banana bread stands on the island. There’s nothing quite like eating a warm slice (… or loaf) of banana bread from Aunty Sandy’s, while you watch the waves crash… the kind of simple but unforgettable experience that makes the Road to Hāna so special.

Waiʻānapanapa State Park

Just before you arrive in Hana, you’ll want to stop at Waiʻānapanapa State Park. This lush state park is home to the black-sand Pailoa Beach and spans around 122 acres— including short hiking loops and ancient trails. The rugged coastline park boasts sea arches, blowholes, lava tubes, anchialine pools, and native hala forests, making it an unforgettable highlight on the Road to Hāna.

Waiʻānapanapa State Park does utilize a reservation system for non-residents to access the park. Entry tickets go on sale 30 days in advance, so if you know this is a stop you want to make, be sure to snag your park reservations in advance! You can do so here.

If you are a last-minute planner and entry tickets are sold out, Hamoa Beach makes for a beautiful back-up beach locale.

Haleakalā — Kipahulu District

The rest of the day’s adventures are dependent on two things: what time you start your road to Hana adventure and what time of year you’re visiting. Summer will lend itself to a bit longer daylight hours. If you have time, the Kipahulu District of Haleakalā National Park is about 45 minutes past Hana and has an awesome hike that’s worth going out of the way for.

Optimally you’d be arriving at the Pipiwai Trailhead no later than 2pm. The hike to Waimoku Falls is one of Maui’s most rewarding adventures, offering a dramatic contrast to the summit district of Haleakalā National Park. You’re immersed in the lush, jungle-like scenery that defines East Maui. The trail winds past towering banyan trees, through bamboo forests, and alongside streams and smaller waterfalls before culminating at the breathtaking 400-foot cascade of Waimoku Falls. This microclimate feels worlds away from the nearby arid summit, showcasing just how diverse Maui’s environments can be. It’s a hike that captures the wild, tropical beauty of Maui’s rainforest landscapes

Don’t forget: if you go to the Haleakalā National Park in the Kipahulu district, be sure to keep your entry receipt. You can use it when you go up to the summit of Haleakala, which is the first item on the itinerary for day two!

The Journey Back: option #1

As noted above, you do want to be mindful about timing, because driving back in the dark is not advised. If you return back the way you came, via the Road Hana, you’ll want to leave yourself about 2.5 hours to make it back to Paʻia. While the road certainly is not dangerous, it is rather winding, without streetlights, so not the best road for a tourist to endeavor upon in the night-time hours. It’s always better to be safe rather than sorry!

THE JOURNEY BACK: OPTION #2

The day two itinerary kicks off at the Summit District of Haleakalā National Park, so we recommend spending the night in the Kula/Upcountry region. Now, there is a south road you can take to get up to Kula (i.e. not returning via the Road to Hana). Your rental car company may dissuade you from taking this route as there are a couple of “hairy” places where the road is steep and narrow, but really entirely doable and safe– as long as it’s not storming (this road can flood during heavy rain).

Before you embark on the southern road, you should know, there is a 45-ish minute stretch of dirt road. Once you are past this, you will find yourself on a smooth, paved road, with fabulous, sweeping vistas! Also, make sure you have your directions loaded up before you leave the national park as you’ll likely be without service for a stretch, until you reach the Ulapalakua area.

Our Airbnb host is actually who recommended this alternative route to us, and she said, “if the road says “local traffic only”, tell them you’re going to your Auntie Pamelaʻs house, and you will be able to come that way!”

Everyone’s driving abilities and comfortability differ, so only you make the decision about what’s safest for you… we’re just here to share an adventurous option. If you’re on the fence about what exactly this entails, you can check out this detailed post by MauiGuidebook. Safety first, safety always!

Kula

Kula Bistro is a gem tucked into the upcountry town of Kula, and it makes for a fantastic dinner spot after a long day of exploring Maui. The menu is packed with hearty, flavorful options—from fresh seafood and pastas to generously portioned entrées that leave you more than satisfied. While it’s a bit on the spendier side compared to casual island eats, the quality of the food and the welcoming atmosphere make it a splurge well worth making.

Hana Hot Takes

Popular experiences, such as this one, can be both amazingly iconic but also have some logistical snafus. For example, nearly every ‘Road to Hana Itinerary’ recommends visiting Twin Falls; however, we found it to be crowded and, honestly, not worth the hype. The waterfalls there were underwhelming at best and felt more like a traffic jam than a nature spot. Everyone will have their own experience, but perhaps temper your expectations a bit for some of the stops— especially if you’re visiting in the high season.
While the Road to Hāna is often romanticized as a coastal drive, in reality, much of the route winds through dense rainforest and bamboo groves. It’s lush and green, yes—but you’ll only catch glimpses of the ocean here and there. If you go in expecting more jungle than seaside cliffs, you’re less likely to be disappointed.
Either drive all the way out to Hana or skip this adventure. You’ll find some people recommend just doing half of the Road to Hāna, as an alternate option for those traveling with young(er) kids or those without time to make a full day of it. This is mediocre advice!! As mentioned above, you’ll be driving through a fairly dense rainforest, so it’s not like jaw-dropping views are abounding. At the halfway point, you will have a pretty sweet viewpoint, but I’d be hard-pressed to argue that it’s worth the hour-long drive on winding roads. All or nothing!!!

DAY TWO

Another day on Maui filled with a completely different array of sweeping landscapes and local flavor— plus an unforgettable sunset. Start your morning early with a drive up to Haleakalā National Park to witness the otherworldly beauty of the volcanic summit. After descending from the clouds, sample the local cuisine and beer before heading to ʻĪao Valley State Monument for a peaceful stroll through lush rainforest and towering emerald peaks. As the afternoon winds down, make your way to the west side for a relaxing evening on Kāʻanapali Beach.

Haleakalā National Park

Spending about a half day here allows you to take in some of the park’s most iconic sights — including scenic overlooks, high-elevation trails, and panoramic views stretching all the way to the Big Island on a clear day. For those with a bit more time or no qualms about an early bird start to the day, there are awesome opportunities to catch the sunrise and hike into the volcanic crater. The beauty and quiet power of Haleakalā make it a must-visit for anyone exploring Maui— even if you make it to the Kipahulu region of the park, the summit district is unlike anything else on the island!

We actually have a whole separate Haleakalā National Park blog post, detailing the key stops and things to do in the summit district. The spark notes?

The sunrise is amazing but does require advanced registration.
Hiking even part of the Sliding Sands Trail down into the crater is beyond worth the time and effort.
Drive all the way up to the summit of the summit district and take in the views from above the clouds.

Mahalo Aleworks

By the time you come down from Haleakalā, you will have likely worked up an appetite… and you might just need your thirst quenched as well. Mahalo Aleworks is a perfect spot for a well-deserved local craft beer. While the beer was worth stopping in for, their food was just okay, BUT there are actually a bunch of other options in a 1-2 block radius.

Crema Maui is a very cute coffee shop, just around the corner, housed in an old trolley… talk about fun, quirky character!! There’s also ‘Oko’a Farms, which is a small market for local goods– primarily produce but they have some gorgeous flower arrangements as well. You can also find a handful of different food truck cuisine options just across the road. We both got a burger and would go back again in a heartbeat!

Iao Valley State Monument

As you leave the upcountry and head west, the ʻĪao Valley State Monument is the next stop. It’s a lush, sacred gem nestled in the heart of central Maui, dominated by the iconic ʻĪao Needle—a striking green-covered rock pinnacle rising 1,200 feet from the valley floor. Beyond its jaw-dropping scenery, ʻĪao Valley is also a place of great historical significance, once the site of the pivotal 1790 Battle of Kepaniwai, where King Kamehameha I fought to unify the Hawaiian Islands.

There’s a short, easy hike that winds through botanical gardens with mist-draped cliffs towering above. Whether you’re drawn by the dramatic landscape, the history, or simply a peaceful pause in nature, ʻĪao Valley is a worthy and accessible stop for any Maui itinerary.

Non-residents (i.e. tourists) do require timed-reservations. They can be made online here.

Kaanapali Beach

We stayed on the west side of Maui in Kaanapali at the Hyatt Regency in Maui. We really enjoyed our stay (especially considering we booked our stay with Hyatt points, making it freeee). The resort is right along the beach, which makes for a delightfully relaxing way to end the day. Whether you stay here or elsewhere, watching the sun set on Kaanapali Beach is a must!

DAY THREE

Is it a crime to visit Maui and not go snorkeling? No but maybe it should be! While this might be a smidge dramatic, the aquatic wildlife here is truly amazing— not to mention, you have a pretty solid chance of seeing sea turtles as well! Whether you’re looking to splurge on a tour or hit some of the shoreline snorkel spots, it’s sure to be a memorable experience.

A Snorkeling Tour to Remember

If you’re looking for a paid snorkeling adventure that feels truly unforgettable, we recommend going with the sunrise Molokini Crater tour through Kai Kanani. Departing directly from Maluaka Beach, it affords the opportunity to be on the water before the crowds and in the crater at its calmest— when the visibility is crystal clear and the marine life is most active.

The early start means you have the rare chance to snorkel in peace, surrounded only by the vibrant coral and schools of tropical fish instead of a sea of other boats. If you’re going to pay for a snorkeling adventure, you might as well wake up early and actually get to have the slice of nature to yourself for a bit! To our knowledge, this is the only snorkeling tour company that is positioned to offer this first-thing-in-the-morning experience, so it’s an easy choice!

Shoreline Snorkeling

If you’d prefer to stick to the shoreline, Maui offers some truly outstanding snorkeling spots, each with its own character. Honolua Bay usually tops the list, thanks to its protected waters and reef teeming with colorful fish, coral, and even the occasional turtle—though it does require a short walk from the parking area to reach the shoreline. Kapalua Beach is another strong contender— a crescent-shaped shoreline with calm waters that make it especially beginner-friendly while still offering plenty of marine life along the rocky edges. Close behind is Napili Bay, a scenic, sandy beach where the snorkeling is best near the rocks on either side of the bay.

These three bay areas showcase the variety of Maui’s snorkeling, from vibrant wildlife from easy-access beaches. These are all great options for anyone wanting to explore straight from shore. Oftentimes the simplest deciding factor in where to go is simply where the conditions are best! We highly recommend checking the snorkel report in the morning, before you head out! The Snorkel Store provides a rating (out of 10) of various snorkeling regions around the island to help inform eager snorkelers.

Relaxation Station

In the midst of an activity-filled itinerary, it’s important to carve out a pocket of downtime to simply unwind—whether that means lounging by the pool (Mai Tai optional) or stretching out on the sand as the waves roll in. With so many adventures packed into just three days, the constant go-go-go can easily become overwhelming, and allowing yourself a pause is just as valuable as chasing the next sight. Sometimes the most memorable moments aren’t the big excursions, but the simple pleasure of being present with loved ones… or taking the space for yourself!

DAY FOUR

Day four on Maui is all about slowing the pace and savoring the island’s beauty in a more relaxed way. Begin the morning with a coastal nature walk and the rest of the day is intentional space to unwind—whether that means sinking into a lounge chair by the pool, enjoying the soft sand and surf of a nearby beach, or simply soaking up the laid-back rhythm that makes Maui so unforgettable.

Kapalua Coastal Trail

Beginning your morning with a walk along the Kapalua Coastal Trail is a refreshing way to ease into your final day on Maui. The path meanders along the shoreline, offering sweeping views of the Pacific, dramatic lava rock formations, and quiet stretches of golden sand—all while the air is still cool and the light is soft. It’s a relatively easy walk, yet it still feels rewarding thanks to the stunning scenery and the possibility of spotting sea turtles. Starting your day here sets a peaceful tone, giving you a chance to start your day by soaking in the staggering beauty of Maui’s coastline.

Relaxation Station: Round 2

There’s some inherent flexibility in every itinerary… you could alternatively finish day three with the Kapalua Coastal Trail, and spend your entire fourth day relaxing peacefully. We are still getting used to traveling with a toddler, and while we typically pride ourselves in getting out of the resort and truly exploring a given area, life continues to provide humbling opportunities. Regardless if you’re single, visiting with the love of your life, or wrangling a few kiddos, it’s ALWAYS nice to have a little space to slow down and relax.

Spending four days in Maui flies by, but that’s usually the case when you’re having a jam-packed, good time. Each of the Hawaiʻian islands has its own unique identity and charm— Maui is somehow both adventurous while also being laid-back… luxury abounds while still holding space for both nature and local tradition. We hope you have the most amazing time exploring for yourself!

If you’re planning to visit any other islands in the Hawaiʻian archipelago, our personal favorite might just have to be Kaui. It’s hard to choose though! Dana and McKenna both had the opportunity to live on Big Island for 4 months, so that holds a special place in their heart (either a 4-day or one week itinerary).

Regardless of where your adventures take you, we so hope you enjoy the journey. Happy travels!

written by Hannah

Tags Maui, travel Hawaii, travel Maui

lifestyle

Haleakalā Made Easy: A Beginner’s Guide to Maui’s Volcano Park

Post author By Hannah

Rising over 10,000 feet above sea level, visiting Haleakalā National Park feels like stepping onto another planet — one sculpted by ancient lava flows, swirling clouds, and sunrise colors that defy description. Located on the island of Maui, this dramatic volcanic landscape is unlike anywhere else in Hawaiʻi. Whether you’re arriving early to witness the legendary sunrise from the summit or hiking off to explore the crater floor, Haleakalā offers a rather surreal experience. We have created a perfect first-time visitor’s guide to Maui’s illustrious volcano park. It’s a place where cinder cones rise like moonscapes and native silversword plants thrive in the thin alpine air, making it a truly unique ecosystem on Maui.

Spending even just a half day here allows you to take in some of the park’s most iconic sights — including scenic overlooks, high-elevation trails, and panoramic views stretching all the way to the Big Island on a clear day. For those with a bit more time, a full-day visit opens up opportunities to catch the sunrise and hike into the crater. The volcanic beauty and quiet power of Haleakalā make it a must-visit for anyone exploring Maui.

Fast Facts About Haleakalā National Park

Size: 30,183 acres

Visitors: 732,477 visitors annually (data from 2024)

Distance from OGG Airport: 40 miles or a 1 hour & 15 min drive (to the summit)

National Park Initiation: Hawaiʻi National Park was established by Congress in 1916, and at the time, this included what is now Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park (on Big Island) AND Haleakalā on Maui. In 1961, the Hawaiʻi National Park was separated and re-designated as Haleakalā National Park and Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.

Fun Fact: Haleakala means “house of the sun” and is said to be where the demigod Maui lassoed the sun, delaying its passage so people had more time to dry kapa (cloth) and grow food

Summit District & Kīpahulu District

Haleakalā National Park is divided into two separate areas: the Summit District and the Kīpahulu District, each offering its own unique volcanic Maui experience. The Summit District, located in upcountry Maui, is the more accessible of the two and home to the park’s famous volcanic crater, sunrise vistas, and high-elevation hikes like Sliding Sands and Pa Ka‘oao. It’s all about expansive views, barren beauty, and feeling like you’re on top of the world.

In contrast, the Kīpahulu District lies on the lush, more-remote southeastern side of the island— past Hāna, and showcases a completely different side of the park. Dense rainforests, flowing waterfalls, and trails, like the Pīpīwai Trail, wind through bamboo groves and lead to towering waterfalls.

Together, these two districts highlight the dramatic range of Maui’s ecosystems — from alpine desert to tropical jungle — making Haleakalā a truly ecologically diverse and fascinating national park. While both districts are in the same park, there are no intra-park roads connecting the two. The safest way to get from one area to the other is actually an approximately 3.5 hour drive around the east side of the island.

It’s totally possible to visit both districts of the park in one day; however, the road to (and through) Hana is its own day trip adventure, and is best suited for another day. This itinerary focuses predominantly on enjoying the Summit District.

Where to Stay

Watching the sunrise in Haleakalā is quite the Maui bucket list item. Even if you stay just outside the park, in Kula, it’s still about a 45-50 minute drive to the summit. If you plan to bring your camping gear on your Maui vacation, you can stay at Hosmer Grove Campground; however, this campground is located near the entrance gate to the park, meaning it will still be a 25-30 min drive up to the summit.

Other cities nearby? The drive from Wailea takes about an hour and a half. Coming from Kahului or Paia takes around an hour and 15 minutes.

We stayed at an Airbnb in Kula, and loved it. Super spacious and an awesome host. The space was big enough that we could spread out a bit, with an awesome view from the terrace and relaxing hot tub to look up at the stars. It was cloudy the night we were there, but apparently the Milky Way is visible on clear nights.

What to Bring

Spending a half to full day up on Haleakalā doesn’t warrant an overly extensive packing list, but there are a handful of things to be aware of.

Jacket — first on the list because it’s, perhaps, the item most likely to be left behind. Haleakalā is up at elevation, and it’s about 20 degrees cooler up at the summit than it was at the base of the volcano. It’s also pretty windy up there as well! Be sure to check the weather before you go… it’s never fun to be cold. Even during the warm summer months, it can be surprisingly cool!
Snacks — there’s no lodge or restaurant to purchase food, so be sure to pack all the snacks and meals you’re going to need, before you head up
Water — hiking at elevation can be a bit more taxing than one might expect, so it’s always better to bring more water than you think you might need. You can refill water bottles, so at the very least ensure you have enough containers for the amount of water you’ll need
Backpack — even a small hiking backpack can be nice to have. It makes for an easy place to throw everything you need together before you go for a hike (even if you don’t plan to go on a long hike)
Headlamp — if you plan to arrive for the sunrise or after sunset, a headlamp is soooo much more convenient than using your phone flashlight
Sunscreen — just because it’s cool doesn’t mean you won’t get burned (once the sun’s up, that it)
Hat — protecting your scalp and face is a must! it can get pretty breezy, so you’re best off with a baseball cap or a hat that straps to your head… nothing’s worse than losing a good hat

A Native Note

Haleakalā is sacred to Native Hawaiians, so please treat this park with the respect it deserves. Stay on marked paths, throw your trash away, and if you see people practicing cultural traditions, please be courteous and do not disturb them.

The Itinerary

Haleakalā paints a landscape different from any other US national park. Peering out across the cinder-scape of a dormant volcano really does fill one with a sense of awe. For anyone that has visited Hawaiʻi Volcano National Park, it’s a beautiful park but also very different from Haleakalā. The volcanic landscapes are uniquely beautiful and memorable.

It’s very easy to spend a half day in the park, and this is the least amount of time that should be allotted. Depending on your time and fitness-level, one could spend the better part of the day exploring Haleakalā! Below we have detailed the must-do activities, when you’re in the park.

Sunrise

Catching the sunrise from the Haleakalā summit is a truly outstanding way to start the day. Despite it being QUITE the early start to the day (especially in the summer), this has become a rather popular endeavor, so the park has implemented a reservation system for the park— but only effective from 3am-7am.

Reservations can be made online up to 60 days in advance, released at 7:00am HST. There is a second, smaller portion of reservations that become available 2 days prior. Reservations can be made here.

If you’d rather not navigate the roads up to the summer, there are four NPS-approved tour companies that offer sunrise experiences: Haleakalā Ecotours, Valley Isle Excursions, Skyline Eco-Adventures, and Polynesian Adventure Tours.

You can check the sunrise time here.

The Summit

We visited Haleakalā in June, with our charming toddler in tow. There was about a 0% chance of us making it to watch the sun rise with our sleepy little friend; however, even in early to mid-morning, the park is beautiful— there’s still lots to see and do!

A visit to the summit of Haleakalā is well worth it for the sweeping views. This isn’t simply the Summit District, but the highest elevation of the park i.e. the summit of the Summit District. At over 10,000 feet, the summit area feels worlds away from Maui’s beaches— taking in the ocean waves below from your perch high in the clouds. Here, you’ll find a cluster of high-tech telescopes used for astronomical research, a testament to the area’s clear skies and minimal light pollution.

Just steps away, a small visitor building offers educational displays and a horizon map that points out distant landmarks — including other Hawaiian islands you can spot on clear days. It’s an awe-inspiring reminder of how vast the view truly is.

Volcano Hikes

Hiking at Haleakalā offers a chance to truly immerse yourself in the park’s surreal volcanic landscape. For a short but rewarding option, the Pa Ka’oao Trail (White Hill Trail) — also known as the White Hill Trail — is a quick climb, beginning right by the Visitor Center, that leads to a stunning panoramic overlook of the crater, with sweeping views that stretch all the way to the ocean on clear days.

For a more immersive adventure, the Sliding Sands Trail descends dramatically into the crater, and hiking even part of the way gives you a sense of the vast scale and quiet beauty of Haleakalā’s interior. Depending how far you trek, you might just pass some windswept cinder cones, shifting colors in the volcanic soil, and the endangered ʻāhinahina (silversword) plant that grows only here.

Visitor Center

No national park trip is complete without a brief stop by the visitor center! You are unlikely to have much service at the summit, so a park ranger is the best person to answer all your questions. I always love to snag a couple postcards… plus you can’t forget to stamp your NPS passport!

Kīpahulu District

Driving the Road to Hana is another popular day trip adventure. If you leave early in the day or if you stay overnight in Hana, hiking the Pipiwai Trail is a well-rounded way to experience the southeastern pocket of the park. The bamboo forests and waterfalls are in sharp contrast to the volcanic landscape— each impressive in their own way.

Due to the time it takes to travel from one district to the other, it would not be the most ideal to visit both parts of the park in one day, but it is certainly possible.

Haleakalā is a unique park with amazing opportunities to experience Maui from a different perspective. Being able to look out at surrounding islands, watch the sunrise from above the clouds, and climb into a crater are memories you certainly won’t forget anytime soon.

Haleakalā is one of two national parks in Hawaii. If your Hawai’i adventures bring you to Big Island, be sure to go visit the Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park!

written by Hannah

Tags Maui, national park travel, national parks, travel Hawaii

tropical destinations united states

The Perfect Four Day Itinerary for Big Island

Post author By Hannah

The largest in the Hawaiian archipelago, the Island of Hawai’i is fondly referred to as Big Island. The moniker is certainly well suited as the breadth of landscape here is unmatched. From snow-covered mountains to black sand beaches to active volcanoes to luscious green valleys, there is truly no end to the adventures that await on Big Island. Our perfect four day itinerary includes everything you must see and do to maximize your time.

Each Hawaiian island has its own ambiance or draw. Big Island is unmatched in its sprawling landscape and diverse microbiome. It’s also one of the best places in the world to snorkel with manta rays, which is a surreal experience. Big Island is a perfect destination for anyone looking for both the beautiful coastal scenery Hawaii is known for, as well as endless breathtaking hikes, catching a peek at some molten lava, and watching the sunset from an almost 14,000-foot snowy mountain top.

If you’re headed to Hawaii, it’s common to combine two or three island visits into one trip. With Big Island being as large as it is, we recommend at least four days to sample the island’s robust variety. While you might not see everythinggg, you’ll definitely get to hit the highlights and capture the essence of Big Island.

While you may think of Hawaii as a beachy keen relaxation destination, you will assuredly miss out if you spend your entire trip at the beach… or even worse, the pool. Below we have detailed the perfect itinerary for anyone looking to make the most of their days adventuring around on Big Island.

The Nitty Gitty Before Paradise City

When you’re only spending a few days on Big island, you’ll want to pick one city to base yourself out of. Kona and Hilo are the two biggest cities on the island, but we recommend bunking down in Kona. It’s on the west side of the island and tends to have a sunnier, drier climate.

Remember, Big Island is just that…. rather big, which means in order to see everything, you will want a rental car. In order to hit all the highlights, you will be putting in some time in the car driving around, but all your drives come with breath-taking views, so it won’t feel like a hardship.

map of Big Island of Hawaii with starred locations for the perfect four day itinerary