Hawaii Region
US island state known for volcanic islands, beaches
Beach surfing on Oahu, sunrise at Haleakala on Maui, lava flows and Hawaiian Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island, and snorkeling, hula, and plate-lunch cuisine define island itineraries.
Hawaii at a Glance#
Hawaii is the US gone tropical - volcanic islands of beaches, reefs, rainforest and surf, each with its own character.
Why go / don’t miss: the surf and history of Oahu (Honolulu, Waikiki, Pearl Harbor), the beaches and road-to-Hana of Maui, the active volcanoes of the Big Island, and the emerald cliffs of Kauai.
Areas: Oahu (Honolulu, the hub); Maui (resorts and scenery); the Big Island (volcanoes, diversity); and Kauai (the lush, wild ‘Garden Isle’).
Getting around: fly into Honolulu (and on to the outer islands); rent a car on each island.
When to go: the islands are warm year-round; Apr-May and Sep-Oct are quieter and cheaper.
Where to stay: Waikiki on Oahu, or a resort area on Maui or the Big Island.
Dining: poke, plate lunch, kalua pork, shave ice and fresh tropical fruit.
Local tips: island-hop by short flights - each island is distinct, so pick two rather than rushing all four.