Flying to Hawaii: the complete guide for travelers

There's no shortage of amazing adventures to be had in Hawaii. This guide will help you navigate your trip to Hawaii:

• Figure out how to get there
• What you need while you’re there
• Which islands to visit, where to stay and what to do while you’re there

Why is Hawaii such a popular holiday destination?

If you've been, you know. Hawaii has a primordial beauty – as if you’ve been given the keys to paradise. Think Jurassic Park-like terrain, a warm tropical climate, and an array of epic outdoor activities in the water and on the land. Plus, a unique blend of Polynesian practices and Asian influences creates a distinctive cultural identity. The real question isn't whether to visit Hawaii, but which island you should go to.

• Stunning beaches: Hawaii's islands are famous for their white, black, and even green sand beaches and crystal-clear water. Each island – Oahu, Maui, Big Island, Kauai, Lanai, and Molokai – has iconic beaches that range from calm water to epic waves, perfect for extreme surfing.
• Diverse outdoor activities: Hawaii offers some of the world's best surfing, snorkeling, and scuba diving among coral reefs teeming with marine life. The hikes are also exceptional, from scenic coastal trails to more challenging volcanic areas, like the hike to the top of Diamond Head or through the otherworldly Haleakala Crater. Rainforests and waterfalls are abundant, as are thrilling zip lines. In Kauai, you can also check out mountain tubing, a relaxing journey travelling through historic irrigation systems.
• Rich culture and history: Hawaiian culture has diverse influences, from indigenous Polynesian peoples to global cultures, including Mexican, Chinese, Korean, Puerto Rican, Filipino, Portuguese, Spanish, and mainland American. A big influx of Japanese workers came to the islands in the late 19th century, causing Japan to have a major impact on the Hawaiian cultural tapestry. This fusion of cultures adds depth and texture to the Hawaii experience. In terms of local customs, every island has plenty of opportunities to enjoy luaus (feasts), see hula performances, and learn about Hawaiian myths and legends.
• Year-round warm weather: Hawaii's tropical climate makes it a year-round destination, with pleasant temperatures in every season. Winters are warm, summers are hot but breezy, and shoulder seasons – April through May and September through November – are deliciously moderate. This means that anytime you choose to visit Hawaii is ideal for escaping colder climates.
• Volcanic landscapes and unique ecosystems: The Big Island, home to Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, has active volcanoes like Kilauea, giving you a rare opportunity to witness volcanic activity. Hawaii also has species, such as the Hawaiian monk seal (the state mammal) and Hawaiian goose, found nowhere else, making it a hotspot for nature lovers.
• High-quality resorts and hospitality: Hawaii has a well-developed tourism infrastructure, with quality resorts, hotels, and spas that offer a range of living-the-dream experiences. Hawaii's reputation for hospitality, or ho'okipa, adds to the genuine pleasure of your stay.

How long does it take to fly to Hawaii?

Image credits: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Heather Goodman

Since it's such a popular destination, most major hubs have direct flights to Hawaii. If you sleep well on airplanes, you can consider an overnight flight, which can make the time pass relatively quickly.

From the US mainland:

• West Coast (Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle): 5-6 hours
• Southwest (Phoenix, Las Vegas): 6-7 hours
• Midwest (Chicago, Dallas): 8-9 hours
• East Coast (New York, Boston, Miami): 10-11 hours

How much does it cost to fly to Hawaii?

The cost to fly to Hawaii depends on a range of variables like your departure location, time of year, airline, and how early you book. Here's a rough guide to give you an idea:

Domestic flights:

• West Coast (Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle): around $300–$600 for a round-trip ticket
• Central US (Denver, Chicago): around $500–$800 for a round-trip ticket
• East Coast (New York, Boston): around $700–$1,000 for a round-trip ticket

Which time of year is the cheapest time to fly to Hawaii?

The cheapest times to fly to Hawaii are typically during the shoulder seasons. During these periods, demand is lower, leading to more affordable airfare. Choosing mid-week flights on Tuesdays or Wednesdays can also help lower the cost.

Which airlines fly to Hawaii?

Image credits: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Heather Goodman

• Hawaiian Airlines – Hawaii's flagship carrier offers numerous direct flights to the islands from the West Coast and some international destinations. It also provides inter-island flights.
• Alaska Airlines: offers flights to Hawaii from many West Coast cities and has a reputation for competitive fares and quality service.
• American Airlines: has flights to Hawaii from major US cities, including Los Angeles, Dallas, and Phoenix.
• Delta Air Lines: serves Hawaii with flights from cities like Los Angeles, Seattle, Salt Lake City, and Atlanta.
• Southwest Airlines: offers flights from various West Coast cities like San Diego, Los Angeles, and Oakland with generally lower fares and free checked bags.
• United Airlines: provides service from multiple US cities, including San Francisco, Los Angeles, Denver, and Chicago.

What do you need to visit Hawaii?

Image credits: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Heather Goodman

• Valid ID: US travelers need a valid, government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport. Starting in May 2025, a REAL ID-compliant license will be required for domestic flights.
• Reef-friendly sunscreen: most available sunscreens on the mainland come with chemicals that damage and bleach the coral. Since January 1st, 2021, sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate are no longer sold in Hawaii. These chemicals have been found to contribute to coral reef bleaching. In 2022, additional legislation decreed that Maui and the Big Island of Hawaii only allow mineral-based sunscreen. You will have to look at the sunscreen label carefully and do your due diligence to determine how environmentally safe your sunscreen is. As of yet, there are no universal standards for what constitutes reef-safe.
• Beach gear: rash guards are essential to protect from sunburn while cutting down on sunscreen, which is better for the reefs. Of course, bring flip flops, a water bottle, sunglasses, and a beach towel. Everything is more expensive in Hawaii because most of it is imported, so you'll save if you bring gear with you.

Which parts of Hawaii can you fly to?

Image credits: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Heather Goodman

You can fly into several main airports in Hawaii. Most major airlines fly to Honolulu (HNL), Kahului (OGG), and Kona (KOA), while the other airports primarily handle inter-island flights.

Here's a quick rundown of the main options:

Oahu

• Honolulu International Airport (HNL) is the busiest airport in Honolulu. It has the most international and mainland flights. It's located on the island of Oahu and serves as a hub for inter-island flights, too.

Maui

• Kahului Airport (OGG) in Kahului. The main airport for Maui, which handles most flights from the mainland and inter-island flights.
• Kapalua Airport (JHM) in West Maui. Smaller and mainly serves inter-island flights from Oahu or other Hawaiian islands.

Big Island (Hawaii)

• Kona International Airport (KOA) in Kailua-Kona. This is the main airport on the western side of the Big Island, serving both mainland and inter-island flights.
• Hilo International Airport (ITO) in Hilo. Located on the eastern side of the island, this airport primarily serves inter-island flights but has some direct mainland connections.

Kauai

• Lihue Airport (LIH) in Lihue is the primary airport on Kauai, serving both mainland and inter-island flights.

Molokai

• Molokai Airport (MKK) in Ho'olehua is a small airport with flights mainly connecting to Honolulu or other islands.

Lanai

• Lanai Airport (LNY) in Lanai City is a smaller airport primarily served by inter-island flights, often connecting through Oahu.

Where to stay in Hawaii

Image credits: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Heather Goodman

Hawaii offers a range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly options. Here's a breakdown of the top areas to stay across the main islands, depending on your travel preferences:

Oahu

• Waikiki (Honolulu): a lively beach area with major hotels, restaurants, shopping, and nightlife. Great for first-time visitors and those looking for an active, urban beach experience.
• North Shore: known for its big waves and laid-back vibe, this area is quieter than Waikiki and popular with surfers. Try Turtle Bay Resort or a vacation rental.
• Kailua: a more residential and tranquil area with beautiful beaches. Kailua has fewer hotels but several vacation rentals, ideal for those seeking peace.

Maui

• Wailea: known for luxury resorts, such as the Four Seasons and Grand Wailea, along with beautiful beaches and golf courses. A good fit for relaxation, romance, and upscale amenities.
• Kaanapali: just outside Lahaina, this area has resorts and vacation condos, plus easy access to beautiful beaches, dining, and activities.
• Hana: for a secluded experience, stay in Hana after driving the Road to Hana. Options are limited but include charming boutique hotels and vacation rentals.
• Kapalua: a scenic and quieter option with luxury resorts and excellent golf courses, known for its natural beauty and walking trails.

Big Island (Hawai'i Island)

• Kailua-Kona: offers a range of accommodations from budgetto luxury, plus lots of dining and activity options. Perfect for exploring the island's west coast, including beaches and coffee farms.
• Hilo: a good base for exploring the eastern side of the island, including Volcanoes National Park. It has a laid-back vibe with more local accommodations and fewer resorts.
• Kohala Coast: home to luxury resorts like the Mauna Lani and Four Seasons Hualalai, with stunning beaches, golf, and excellent snorkeling. Great for those looking for a high-end beach getaway.

Kauai

• Poipu: the sunniest part of the island, with beautiful beaches, a range of accommodations, and lots of family-friendly options. A versatile option for those looking for a mix of relaxation and activities.
• Princeville: a resort area on the North Shore with luxury condos, golf, and stunning views of the Na Pali Coast. Best for a quieter, scenic stay with easy access to outdoor adventures.
• Kapaa: an affordable area with good dining, beaches, and a central location for exploring the island. Offers a range of vacation rentals and small hotels.

Lanai & Molokai

• Lanai City (Lanai): the Four Seasons is the main luxury option here, with world-class amenities. You'll find some budget hotels and vacation rentals as well.
• Kaunakakai (Molokai): known for its quiet and small-town feel, with limited but charming accommodations such as boutique inns and small hotels. For travelers looking for an authentic Hawaiian experience, well worth considering.

Bonus tips for accommodations in Hawaii

• Book early: Hawaii accommodations fill up fast, especially in peak seasons (summer and winter holidays).
• Vacation rentals: if you want more privacy or a kitchen, consider vacation rentals, particularly in areas with fewer hotels.
• Budget options: hostels, budget hotels, and camping are available but limited inventory on some islands.

What to do in Hawaii

Image credits: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Heather Goodman

There's no shortage of amazing adventures to be had in Hawaii. But keep in mind it's as much about the spirit with which you approach your explorations as it is about what exactly you do.

• Responsible travel: take time to learn about Hawaii's culture, values, and etiquette. You'll have a better understanding of the islands and a more authentic experience there.
• Land conservation: Hawaii's biodiversity is fragile, so take the advised precautions seriously. Before hiking, make sure your shoes and clothing don’t carry traces of seeds, oils, or other organics. In recent years, the 'ohi'a tree has been infected by a fungal disease in all islands and districts.
• Attend a luau: experience traditional Hawaiian food, music, and hula performances at a luau celebration.
• Learn to surf: Hawaii is the birthplace of surfing, and each island offers surf schools for beginners.
• Zipline adventures: soar above lush valleys and waterfalls, withzipline tours available on multiple islands.
• Farm and coffee tours: visit local farms to see how Kona coffee, Hawaiian chocolate, and tropical fruits are grown and processed.
• Mauna Kea stargazing: visit the summit or Mauna Kea Visitor Center for out-of-this-world stargazing.
• Support local: choose restaurants and businesses that source from local suppliers and choose sustainable certified operators.

With an intentional mindset, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the people and experiences that make Hawaii a truly incredible destination.