Hawaii Island travel guide

Hawaii Island travel guide

National Airports

There are two major airports on Hawaii Island:

Hilo International Airport (ITO): located in Hilo on the east coast of the island, this airport offers domestic flights to and from Honolulu, Kahului, and Kona.

Kona International Airport (KOA): located in Kona on the west coast of the island, this airport offers both domestic and international flights to and from Honolulu, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Tokyo, and Vancouver.

In addition to these major airports, there are also several smaller regional airports on the island, including Waimea-Kohala Airport and Upolu Airport. These airports offer limited service to smaller communities on the island.

Trains in Hawaii Island

There are no passenger trains on Hawaii Island. The island does not have a comprehensive public transportation system, and visitors typically rely on rental cars, taxis, and tour buses to get around. Some areas of the island, such as downtown Hilo and downtown Kona, are walkable, but most of the island’s attractions and activities are spread out and require transportation to access.

Buses in Hawaii Island

Hawaii Island does have a bus system, called Hele-On Bus, which provides public transportation services to several areas on the island. However, the service is limited and not as comprehensive as in larger cities. The bus routes primarily serve local residents and do not cover all the major tourist destinations on the island. Visitors may find it difficult to rely solely on the bus system to get around the island, particularly if they want to visit more remote attractions or explore multiple areas in a single day. Most visitors prefer to rent a car or take guided tours to fully experience the island.

How to get to Hawaii Island

The easiest way to get to Hawaii Island is to fly into one of its two major airports: Hilo International Airport (ITO) or Kona International Airport (KOA). Both airports offer domestic and international flights from major cities in the United States and other countries. Direct flights are available from cities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Tokyo, and Vancouver.

Alternatively, visitors can also take a cruise ship to Hawaii Island. Many major cruise lines offer itineraries that include stops in Hilo or Kona, allowing visitors to explore the island as part of a larger travel experience.

Once on the island, visitors can rent a car or take a shuttle or taxi to their accommodations. Some hotels and resorts also offer shuttle services to and from the airport.

What is the best time to travel to Hawaii Island

The best time to travel to Hawaii Island depends on what you want to do and see while you’re there. Hawaii Island has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round and occasional rain showers. Here are some things to consider:

Weather: The best time to visit Hawaii Island for good weather is during the summer months, from June to August, when temperatures are warm and rain showers are less frequent. However, this is also the busiest time of year, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.

Crowds: If you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons, from April to May and September to November. During these times, the weather is still pleasant, but the crowds are smaller, and prices may be lower.

Activities: If you plan to go hiking, sightseeing, or whale watching, the winter months (December to February) are a great time to visit Hawaii Island. The weather is still mild, and the whale watching season is at its peak.

Events: Hawaii Island hosts many cultural and sporting events throughout the year, such as the Merrie Monarch Festival in April and the Ironman World Championship in October. Check the calendar of events to see if there’s an event you’d like to attend and plan your trip accordingly.

Overall, there is no bad time to visit Hawaii Island. It all depends on your personal preferences and what you want to do while you’re there.

How to get around Hawaii Island

The best way to get around Hawaii Island is by car. Visitors can rent a car at the airport or in major towns on the island. Many major car rental companies have locations at the airport and offer a wide range of vehicles to choose from. Having a car is the most convenient way to explore the island, as it allows you to visit multiple attractions in a single day and travel on your own schedule.

Alternatively, visitors can also take guided tours, such as bus tours or helicopter tours, to explore the island’s natural beauty and attractions. There are many tour companies on the island that offer a variety of tours to different locations, including the volcano, waterfalls, beaches, and scenic drives.

Hawaii Island also has a public bus system called Hele-On Bus, which operates in some areas of the island, but it is not as comprehensive as in larger cities and may not cover all the major tourist destinations. Taxis and ride-sharing services are available in some areas, but they may not be as readily available as in more populated areas.

Overall, the best way to get around Hawaii Island is by car, as it offers the most flexibility and convenience.

Accommodations in Hawaii Island

Hawaii Island has a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences. Some popular options include:

Resorts and hotels: Hawaii Island has many luxury resorts and hotels, many of which are located on the Kohala Coast. These accommodations offer a variety of amenities, such as swimming pools, spas, and restaurants, and are great for those looking for a relaxing vacation.

Vacation rentals: Vacation rentals, such as condos and houses, are a popular option for families or larger groups. They offer more space and privacy than hotels, and many are equipped with kitchens, making them a great option for those who want to cook their meals.

Bed and breakfasts: Hawaii Island has many bed and breakfasts, some of which are located in historic homes or offer ocean views. These accommodations are great for those who want a more personalized experience and enjoy meeting other travelers.

Hostels: For budget travelers, hostels are a great option. Hawaii Island has a few hostels that offer affordable accommodation and a chance to meet other travelers.

Camping: Hawaii Island has several campgrounds, both public and private, that offer tent and RV camping. This is a great option for those who enjoy the outdoors and want to save money on accommodation.

Overall, Hawaii Island offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. It’s important to book in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure you get the accommodation you want.