Explore Hawaii United States

Explore Hawaii United States

What is the best time to travel to Hawaii

The best time to travel to Hawaii depends on what you want to do and see, as well as your budget and personal preferences. Here are some factors to consider:

Weather: Hawaii has a warm tropical climate year-round, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (24-29 degrees Celsius). However, the islands do have distinct seasons, with the winter months (November to February) being slightly cooler and rainier than the summer months (June to September). The best weather can usually be found in the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November), when temperatures are warm, skies are clear, and there is less rainfall.

Crowds: Hawaii is a popular tourist destination, and certain times of year can be very crowded, especially around major holidays and school breaks. The busiest times are generally mid-December to mid-January, mid-June to mid-August, and the week surrounding Easter.

Prices: As with any tourist destination, prices for flights, accommodations, and activities can vary depending on the time of year. Prices are generally higher during the peak travel season (December to March and June to August) and lower during the shoulder season (April to May and September to November).

Events: Hawaii hosts many festivals and events throughout the year, including the Honolulu Marathon in December, the Merrie Monarch Festival (a hula competition) in April, and the Maui Film Festival in June.

Overall, the best time to travel to Hawaii is during the spring or fall, when the weather is pleasant, crowds are smaller, and prices are lower. However, no matter when you go, Hawaii is a beautiful and welcoming destination with plenty to offer.

How to get to Hawaii

Hawaii is a chain of islands located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, so getting there involves traveling over a significant distance. The most common way to reach Hawaii is by air travel, as there are no roads or bridges that connect the state to the mainland United States.

The major airports in Hawaii are Honolulu International Airport (HNL) on the island of Oahu, Kahului Airport (OGG) on the island of Maui, Kona International Airport (KOA) on the island of Hawaii (also known as the Big Island), and Lihue Airport (LIH) on the island of Kauai. These airports receive daily flights from major airlines, including Hawaiian Airlines, United Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Alaska Airlines, as well as international airlines from Asia and the Pacific.

Many visitors to Hawaii also arrive by cruise ship. Several major cruise lines offer itineraries that include stops in Hawaii, and there are several ports throughout the islands, including Honolulu, Kahului, Hilo, and Nawiliwili.

How to get around Hawaii

The best way to get around Hawaii depends on which island you’re visiting and what you want to do. Here are some options for getting around:

Renting a car: Renting a car is a popular and convenient way to explore Hawaii, especially on the larger islands like Oahu, Maui, and Hawaii (the Big Island). Most major rental car companies have locations at the airports and in major tourist areas. Keep in mind that parking can be limited and expensive in some areas, and traffic can be heavy during peak travel times.

Public transportation: Each island in Hawaii has its own public transportation system, typically consisting of buses that operate on set routes and schedules. The bus systems on Oahu and Maui are the most extensive, with frequent service to major tourist areas. The bus system on Hawaii (the Big Island) is more limited, and other islands may not have public transportation at all.

Ride-sharing services: Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available on most of the major islands in Hawaii, although they may not be available in more remote areas. Fares can be expensive, especially during peak travel times.

Taxis: Taxis are available in most tourist areas, but fares can be expensive, and it may be difficult to hail a cab in some areas.

Tours and shuttles: Many tour companies offer guided tours of Hawaii’s top attractions, including transportation. Some companies also offer shuttle service between popular destinations, such as between hotels and beaches.

Walking and biking: Some areas in Hawaii, particularly in the more densely populated areas, are walkable or bikeable. Many beach towns have bike rental shops, and some hotels offer complimentary bike rentals.

Regardless of how you choose to get around, be sure to plan ahead, especially if you’re traveling during peak travel times. Some modes of transportation, such as rental cars, may book up quickly, so it’s best to reserve in advance.

National Airports

Hawaii has several airports that serve different islands and cities throughout the state. Here are the major national airports in Hawaii:

Honolulu International Airport (HNL): Located on the island of Oahu, HNL is the main gateway to Hawaii and the busiest airport in the state. It serves as a hub for Hawaiian Airlines and offers non-stop flights to many destinations in the United States, Asia, and the Pacific.

Kahului Airport (OGG): Located on the island of Maui, OGG is the second-busiest airport in Hawaii and serves as a hub for Hawaiian Airlines. It offers non-stop flights to many destinations in the United States, Canada, and Asia.

Kona International Airport (KOA): Located on the island of Hawaii, also known as the Big Island, KOA is the primary airport serving the western side of the island. It offers non-stop flights to many destinations in the United States, Canada, and Asia.

Lihue Airport (LIH): Located on the island of Kauai, LIH is the main airport serving the island. It offers non-stop flights to many destinations in the United States, including Los Angeles, Seattle, and San Francisco.

Hilo International Airport (ITO): Located on the island of Hawaii, ITO serves the eastern side of the island. It offers non-stop flights to many destinations in the United States, including Los Angeles and Honolulu.

There are also several smaller regional airports in Hawaii that serve specific islands and communities.

Trains in Hawaii

There are currently no passenger trains in Hawaii. The state does not have a rail network that connects the islands or major cities. However, there is a scenic railroad, the Sugar Cane Train, on the island of Maui that offers a historic tour along the western coast of the island. The train runs between Lahaina and Kaanapali and is a popular attraction for tourists. Additionally, there are plans to build a rail transit system on Oahu, which would connect Honolulu to the island’s western suburbs. However, the project is still in progress and is not yet operational.

Buses in Hawaii

Hawaii has a comprehensive public bus system called “TheBus,” which is operated by the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation (HART). TheBus serves the island of Oahu and provides public transportation to residents and visitors alike. TheBus has an extensive network of routes that cover the entire island, including popular tourist destinations such as Waikiki, Pearl Harbor, and the North Shore.

The buses in Hawaii are modern, air-conditioned, and equipped with bike racks. Fares are affordable, and passengers can pay with exact change or purchase a reloadable smart card called “TheBus Pass.” Visitors can purchase multi-day passes that offer unlimited rides on TheBus, which can be a cost-effective way to explore the island.

It’s important to note that the other Hawaiian Islands do not have a public bus system as extensive as TheBus. However, each island has its own bus service that provides transportation within its communities. For example, Maui has the Maui Bus, which serves many of the island’s major destinations, and Kauai has the Kauai Bus, which operates a limited number of routes.

Accommodations in Hawaii

Hawaii offers a wide variety of accommodations, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts. Here are some popular choices:

Hotels and Resorts: Hawaii is known for its luxurious beachfront hotels and resorts, with many top-rated options to choose from. These can be expensive, especially during peak travel times, but offer amenities such as pools, spas, restaurants, and activities.

Vacation Rentals: Vacation rentals such as condos, apartments, and villas are a popular choice in Hawaii, especially for families and larger groups. These can often be more affordable than hotels, and offer more space and privacy. Vacation rental platforms such as Airbnb, Vrbo, and HomeAway have many options to choose from.

Hostels and Guesthouses: Hostels and guesthouses are a more affordable option for budget-conscious travelers. These accommodations typically offer shared or private rooms and common areas for socializing, and can be found in tourist areas throughout Hawaii.

Camping: Hawaii has many beautiful campsites, ranging from beachfront to mountain views. Camping is a great option for outdoor enthusiasts, but be sure to check the rules and regulations before setting up camp.

Bed and Breakfasts: Bed and breakfasts offer a more personalized and intimate experience, with hosts often providing local knowledge and recommendations. These accommodations can be found throughout Hawaii, often in more rural or secluded areas.

No matter what type of accommodation you choose, be sure to book in advance, especially during peak travel times.