Best Places to Stay in Hawaii: Travel To Hawaii 2023

Did you know that Hawaii is made up of 132 different islands? Although eight of these islands are the main ones that people usually think of when they think of Hawaii, the others are pretty small.

Hawaii is located in the Pacific Ocean, around 2,500 miles southwest of California. Even though it’s relatively far from the mainland U.S., it’s still easy to travel to Hawaii, with direct flights available from many locations. 

Hawaii is an extraordinary place. It’s no wonder that so many people come here to vacation; the scenery is breathtaking, the weather is perfect, and the people are just so friendly and welcoming. It’s easy to see why someone might want to move here permanently after spending some time on the islands.

Life in Hawaii is slower-paced than in most other parts of the U.S. That’s not necessarily bad; it just means people have more time to enjoy life and relax.

After all, what’s the point of working yourself to death if you’re not going to enjoy your time off? Here in Hawaii, people seem to take that philosophy to heart.

Hawaii may be the perfect destination if you’re looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Best Hawaiian Island: Witch Island to Choose?

Hawaii is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty, and that is especially evident in its eight main islands. Six of the islands are readily accessible to the public, and each one has its own unique charms.

Whether you’re looking for pristine beaches, lush rainforests, or active volcanoes, you’ll find it all in Hawaii. And best of all, the islands are close enough that you can easily hop from one to the other.

Here are the eight main islands:

• The Big Island of Hawaii is the largest of the Hawaiian Islands and is home to four out of five of the world’s foremost climate zones.
• Maui is the second-largest island known for its beautiful beaches and scenic hiking trails. It’s also a breeding ground for the Humpback Whale, making it a popular destination for whale-watching tours.
• O’ahu is the third-largest island and home to Honolulu’s state capital.
• Kaua’i is the fourth largest of the Hawaiian Islands and was the first Hawaiian island that Captain James Cook visited when he arrived in 1778.
• Moloka’i is one of unique islands in Hawaii. It’s the fifth-largest in the state, but it’s very traditional and has the highest unemployment rate. 
• Lanai is the sixth-largest and smallest Island, easily accessible to the public.
• Niihau is the seventh-largest island in Hawaii and has been privately owned by the Robinson family since 1864. 
• Kaho’olawe is the smallest of Hawaii’s eight main islands and has always had a small population. During World War II, the Island was used as a bombing and training ground by the Americans, and it is now a reserve with no permanent residents. 

Traveling Between the Islands

There are a few different options if you’re looking to travel between the Hawaiian islands. Flying is often the quickest and most convenient option, with several airlines offering inter-island flights at relatively affordable prices. 

Several airlines fly to Hawaii, including Hawaiian Airlines and Mokulele Airlines. You may sometimes save money by making a reservation ahead of time.

Expeditions (ferry company) operates a service from Maui to Lanai. Two ferries link Maui with Molokai, the Maui Princess, and the Molokai Prince.

1) Hawaii, The Big Island

When most people think of Hawaii, they picture sandy beaches, palm trees, and tropical drinks. However, there is much more to this U.S. state than meets the eye.

The Big Island, for instance, is often overlooked by visitors in favor of smaller islands like Oahu and Maui. Yet, this Island has a lot to offer tourists, from its lively festivals to its diverse landscape.

The Big Island is the largest of all the Hawaiian Islands, and its size is matched by its diversity; it is one of the unique places on Earth. It’s a nature lover’s paradise, with plenty of hiking and outdoor activities to keep you busy.

And, of course, the Island is home to some of the most spectacular sights in Hawaii.

The Big Island has two main parts: Kona on the West and Hilo on the East.

• Kona is home to most of the Island’s tourist attractions, including the famous Kilauea volcano.
• Hilo, on the other hand, is a bit more laid-back and is known for its lush rainforests and waterfalls.

It’s a good idea to arrive at Kona Airport and depart from Hilo, and often rental cars can be dropped off on either side of the Island. This will allow you to see the main attractions on either side of the Island.

The Big Island offers something for everyone. If you’re looking to relax and be pampered, there are plenty of five-star resorts. If you’re on a budget, there are also backpacker-style hostels.

And if you want to get active, there are golf courses, an erupting volcano, and green and black sand beaches.

Plus, there’s spectacular wildlife and many chances to give the credit card a workout in the local stores. In short, the Big Island has it all if you’re looking for adventure or relaxation.

Best Places to Stay Big Island Hawaii

• Families Hotel: Waikoloa Village
• Luxury Hotel: Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
• Budget Hotel: Big Island Retreat

Families have much to consider when choosing where to stay on Big Island. There are many resorts and hotel options, each with unique features and amenities.

A good option for families is the Hilton at Waikoloa village. This hotel features a lagoon full of dolphins, and you can even get a room that faces the lagoon for a great view.

Another good option is to stay near Kailua-Kona on the Island’s west side. This area is close to shopping and restaurants, on the main bus route, and close to Magic Sands Beach.

The Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is an excellent choice for families looking for good value. It’s close to Ali Drive and offers all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay.

If you’re a backpacker looking for a place to stay on Big Island, you’ve got a few options.

Pineapple Park is an excellent choice if you stay on the Kona side.

It’s just a five-minute walk from the Captain Cook Monument, and though it’s a little bit out of town, it’s very affordable. The hostel is clean and tidy, and you can’t beat the price – just $30 per night for a dorm room.

However, it’s worth noting that the hostel is in a residential area, so party-goers should look elsewhere. There is a 10 pm curfew in effect to respect the neighbors. All in all, Pineapple Park is an excellent option for backpackers on a budget.

One hotel that is popular with budget-conscious travelers is the Big Island Retreat.

It is clean, tidy, and centrally located, making it an excellent base for exploring Hilo and the surrounding area. Another great option for those on a tight budget is the Kona Seaside Hotel. 

This hotel offers basic but clean accommodation and is only a short walk from the beach. If you are looking for somewhere cheap and cheerful to rest your head on Big Island, then either of these hotels would be a great choice.

For more choices, here is my list of the best Hotels on the Big Island.

Best Activities on Big Island

Have you ever wanted to see a live volcano, swim with the dolphins, or go scuba diving? Then The Big Island is the Island for you.

The Big Island is full of unique and exciting outdoor activities, perfect for thrill-seekers. Whether you want to get up close and personal with some of the Island’s wildlife or explore its natural beauty, there’s something for everyone on The Big Island.

Here are just a few of the best activities for thrill-seekers: 

• Swimming with the dolphins
• Snorkeling
• Visiting the Akaka Falls

Swimming with the dolphins is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity you won’t miss. There’s nothing like swimming alongside these fantastic creatures in their natural habitat.

And snorkeling is a great way to explore the underwater world without getting your scuba diving certification.

If you want to stay on dry land, visiting Akaka Falls is a must. The falls are located in a lush jungle setting and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Looking for more things to do on Big Island? Here is my list of the most exciting things on the Big Island.

Getting Around on the Big Island of Hawaii

If you’re planning a trip to the Big Island of Hawaii, one of the first things you’ll need to figure out is how to get around. The good news is that several transport options are available, depending on your budget and plans.

One option is the bus system, which is cheap but not very frequent. The Hele-on bus, for example, departs from the airport twice a day, at 8:30 am and 4:50 pm, Monday to Saturday. 

If you miss the bus, you’ll need to catch a taxi, which can be expensive.

Another option is to rent a car, which allows you to explore the Island at your own pace. There are many places to stop off and take photos, so a road trip is the best way to see the Island.

2) Maui Island

Maui is a family island that has something for everyone. Maui has everything from the beautiful beaches to excellent surfing to the chance to see some whales. And it’s no wonder many people have voted Maui the best Island in the world.

Maui is a popular destination for tourists and college students, with more than two million visitors annually. If you’re looking for a place to party in Hawaii, Maui is the place to be. But if you’re looking for a more relaxing vacation, Maui is still a great choice. 

You won’t be disappointed if you’re looking for a traditional Hawaiian luau experience while on Maui. The Old Lahaina Luau and Feast at Lele are practical options that offer delicious Hawaiian cuisine and traditional Polynesian entertainment.

And since Lahaina was once the royal court for Maui’s chiefs, it’s worth taking a stroll around town to learn more about the area’s rich history.

Maui is also home to some of the most beautiful flowers in Hawaii, so make sure to visit one of the Island’s botanical gardens during your stay. You’ll be amazed by all the great native plants!

Best Places to Stay on Maui Hawaii

• Families Hotel: Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa
• Luxury Hotel: Maui Vista
• Budget Hotel: Maui Beach House B & B

When deciding where to stay in Maui with your family, you’ll want to consider the location and amenities necessary.

The two main areas to stay in Maui are the south (Kihei-Wailea) and the west (Lahaina-Kaanapali). 

The west side is a bit more crowded and popular with tourists, but if you stay here, you’ll be close to the shops, restaurants, and entertainment. 

The south side is quieter, and staying there may mean less of a drive if you want to go sightseeing in Maui. A good option in the Lahaina/Kaanapali area is the Kaanapali Beach Hotel, the most “Hawaiian” Hotel on Kaanapali beach.

They do some free activities for kids, like lei-making and hula dancing lessons. If you’re looking for more of a resort feel, the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa has plenty of activities for kids and adults, like snorkeling and tennis lessons. 

The hotel is a bit older, but it’s well-maintained and offers stunning views of Kaanapali Beach. The Kaanapali Alii is an excellent option if you prefer more modern accommodations. This property is right on the beach and offers gorgeous views.

If you’re looking to stay in the southern part of the Island, Maui Vista is a great choice. This hotel is set back from the beach, so you’ll have more privacy, but you’ll still be close to the Island’s main attractions.

Plus, every room has an ocean view. So whether you’re looking for a beachfront property or something a little more private, there’s an excellent option for you on the Island of Maui.

Maui Beach House B & B is an excellent option for backpackers looking for a place to stay in Maui. It’s clean, reasonably priced, and offers free tours of Maui every day. If you’re looking for more choices, my list of best hotels in Maui is a great place to start. 

Whatever your budget, there’s sure to be a hotel on the list that’s perfect for you. 

Best Activities on Maui

Maui is best known for its beaches, but there’s plenty to do off the sand. Adventure Maui has something for even the most committed thrill-seeker, so take your pick of one of these activities for a chance to get your adrenalin going. 

Hike the Pipiwai trail: The Pipiwai trail is a 4-mile round-trip hike that takes you through a bamboo forest, past a 400-foot waterfall, and to the Makahiku falls overlook. The walk can be challenging in parts, but it’s worth it for the fantastic views.

Take a surf lesson: Maui is a mecca for surfers, but even if you’ve never been on a board before, you can still enjoy the waves with a surf lesson. Most lessons last about 2 hours and will have you riding the waves in no time.

Parasailing: Parasailing is a must for those who want to take to the skies. You’ll be strapped into a harness and towed behind a boat as you soar hundreds of feet above the water. It’s an incredible way to see Maui from above.

Kayaking: Explore Maui’s coastline from the water with a kayaking trip. You can go on a guided tour, rent a kayak, and explore independently. Either way, you’re sure to see some fantastic sights.

For more things to do, check out our blog post on the best activities on Maui.

Getting Around Maui Island

There are a few different ways to get around Maui Island. If you’re on a budget, the Maui bus system is cheap; fares are only $1.

However, the bus system is fundamental, and you may not be able to see some of the main attractions, especially if they’re out of the way.

If you want more flexibility, your best bet will be to rent a car. That way, you can explore the island at your own pace and see everything Maui offers.

3) O’ahu Island

The Island of Oahu, known as “The Gathering Place,” is the most popular Hawaiian Islands, with over five million visitors yearly. The Island is best known for Waikiki Beach, where you’ll find some of Hawaii’s best weather.

However, O’ahu has much more to offer than just Waikiki Beach. From historical sites to natural beauty, there’s something for everyone on this diverse island. 

This Island is the most developed of all the Hawaiian islands, and it’s a chance to see American and Hawaiian culture and history.

O’ahu is a melting pot of different ethnic groups. With world-class shopping, incredible nightlife, and some of the most popular beaches in the world, you can see why people come from all over to experience O’ahu.

From watching the sunrise at Diamond Head to stand-up paddle boarding in Waikiki, there’s something for everyone on this diverse island. So if you’re looking for a little bit of everything on your Hawaiian vacation, be sure to add O’ahu to your list.

Best Places to Stay on O’ahu Island, Hawaii

• Families Hotel: The Halekulani hotel
• Luxury Hotel: Sheraton Waikiki
• Budget Hotel: Manoa Valley Inn

Oahu is a great place to visit if you’re looking for beautiful beaches, fantastic food, and incredible views. While there are many hotels to choose from, here are a few of the best: 

The Sheraton Waikiki is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a luxurious pool experience. With an adults-only infinity pool, it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind. 

The Halekulani hotel is located right on the beach in Waikiki. This hotel has complimentary Wi-Fi and, best of all: no resort fees! If you’re looking for unbeatable views and easy access to the beach, this is the hotel for you.

Aulani Disney Resort & Spa might be a good option if you travel with young children. The resort has a large pool, lazy river, and whirlpool spas for adults.

Kids can also meet and have dinner with their favorite Disney characters.

If you are looking for a resort with more amenities, the Hilton Hawaiian Village might be a good choice. With 22 acres, 18 restaurants and lounges, and its lagoon, it offers many activities for guests.

If you’re after something a little more budget-friendly, try the Sheraton Princess, which has free Hawaiian entertainment by the pool every evening.

There are plenty of hostels around the Island for backpackers or those looking for a more immersive experience.

Manoa Valley Inn is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a clean and affordable place to stay. You can’t go wrong with prices from $40 for a four-bed dorm room. This hostel has a great atmosphere with visitors worldwide and facilities like Wi-Fi, parking, and lockers.

Best Activities O’ahu Island

Looking for some adventure on your trip to Oahu? There’s no shortage of activities to keep you busy on this Island. From scuba diving and shark diving to hiking and exploring, there’s something for everyone.

One popular activity is the Atlantis Submarine tour. This is your chance to see Hawaii’s underwater world in a passenger submarine. Get up close to hundreds of fish species, sunken ships, airplanes, and tropical reefs. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget.

If you’re looking for even more thrill, consider shark diving. You can dive with sharks in a cage or go on a Shark Encounter Cruise, where you’ll learn about these fantastic creatures.

Scuba diving is also a popular activity in Oahu. There are plenty of dive sites to explore, each with its unique features.

Last but not least, be sure to visit the Kualoa Ranch. This working ranch offers plenty of activities for visitors, from horseback riding and ATV tours to zip lines and jungle exploration.

If you’re looking for more things on Oahu Island, this blog article about the best things to do is a great place to start. This comprehensive guide includes information about popular tourist destinations and lesser-known gems only locals know about.

Getting Around O’ahu Island

O’ahu is one of the more accessible islands, and several transportation options are available. The Bus, O’ahu’s public bus system, is probably the most convenient option. Fares are very reasonable, with a one-way fare at just $2.50 for an adult.

Most buses go to the Ala Moana Center, making it easy to get around. You can also buy a visitors pass for $20, which gives you unlimited rides for four days.

4) Kaua’i Island

Kaua’i has a laid-back vibe compared to some of the other Hawaiian islands. And that’s not a bad thing! Sometimes you need a vacation from your vacation if you know what I mean.

The Island is covered in lush green forest, which is stunning. And the locals are super friendly. I recommend renting a car and driving around the Island to check out all the different beaches and viewpoints.

The Na Pali coast was my favorite part of the trip–the cliffs are incredible, and it’s such a peaceful place.

I highly recommend it as a place to visit if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It’s also a great place to learn about Hawaiian culture and history.

Many museums and cultural sites on Kaua’i are worth checking out. So, whether you’re looking for a place to relax or learn, Kaua’i is definitely the Island for you!

Best Places to Stay on Kaua Island, Hawaii

• Families Hotel: Hanalei Colony Resort
• Luxury Hotel: Koloa Landing Resort at Po’ipu
• Budget Hotel: Waimea Plantation Cottages

Kauai is one of the most beautiful islands in Hawaii, and there are plenty of unique places to stay.

Hanalei Colony Resort overlooks Hanalei Bay, and it’s about location – you can’t get much better than that view. Although it’s a bit pricey, you may also consider staying nearby and using the facilities.

Koloa Landing Resort in Poipu has saltwater swimming lagoons and two freshwater pools. You can grab a floatable chair and relax in the water before going to the weekly luau. It’s a great place to stay if you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere.

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Kaua’i that won’t break the bank, the Waimea Plantation Cottages is a great option. It’s right on the beach, so you can fall asleep to the sound of the waves crashing against the shore of Poipu beach.

And, if you’re in the mood to party, there are plenty of places nearby where you can let loose. Remember that the Waimea Plantation Cottages isn’t a party hostel, so you might want to look elsewhere if that’s what you’re looking for.

But if you’re looking for great value and an unbeatable location, this is the place for you.

Best Activities on Kauai Island

Kauai is the perfect place to relax and unwind, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty to do on the Island. Here are some of the best activities to check out: 

Go ziplining: The Kauai Backcountry Zipline Adventure Tour is a great way to see the island from a different perspective. You’ll get an up-close look at the stunning scenery with seven ziplines.

Go tubing: tubing through the old irrigation system from the Lihue Plantation is a great way to see some of Kauai’s hidden gems. No longer used for sugar, the system is now a fun way to explore the Island.

Hiking to Mount Waialeale: This ancient volcano crater is sacred to the Hawaiians and is the wettest spot in the world, with more than 400 inches of rain a year. If you attempt it, you better have a lot of hiking experience.

Kayaking: Try the Kauai South Shore Sea Kayak Adventure, where you’ll kayak seven miles along the South Shore. A great chance to spot some wildlife, you’ll also get to stop at a saltwater blowhole called the Spouting Horn before stopping for lunch.

If you’re looking for things to do on Kauai, you might be overwhelmed with the options. 

Our blog post about the best things to do in Kauai will help you make the most of your time on the Island. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite activities, and we’re sure you’ll find something that appeals to you.

Getting Around on Kauai Island

Getting around can be difficult as the attractions are spread out, so you’ll best rent a car for at least a few days to see them all.

This way, you can explore Kauai at your own pace and see everything that interests you. Renting a car is also more economical than taking taxis everywhere. So, renting a car is the best way to get around if you plan to stay in Kauai for more than a day.

5) Moloka’i Island

If you’re looking for a truly authentic Hawaiian experience, you’ll want to head to Moloka’i. This long, skinny Island is home to a large population of indigenous Hawaiians, and you’ll find that most buildings are no taller than a palm tree.

There are no traffic lights on the Island, and visitors often say it feels like they’ve stepped back in time. While there’s not much nightlife, Moloka’i is perfect for those who want to relax and soak up the islands’ natural beauty.

This Island is home to around 8,000 people, where hula dancing was born. You won’t find any sprawling resorts or five-star restaurants here – just the real Hawaii.

There are no McDonald’s or Wal-Mart’s on Moloka’i, but that’s part of its charm. If you want to avoid the crowds of tourists, this is the Island for you.

There’s plenty to see and do on Moloka’i, from hiking and biking to exploring the Island’s history. So if you’re looking for a unique experience, head to Moloka’i Island.

Where to Stay on Molokai Island

The Hotel Molokai is centrally located on Kamiloloa Beach near the main town of Kaunakakai. If you’re looking for something a little more intimate, several bed-and-breakfasts and condos are dotted around the Island.

Ka Hale Kealoha is a comfortable and cheap bed-and-breakfast with a beautiful garden for backpackers and those traveling on a budget. The owners, Elena and John, are also very hospitable and always willing to help their guests with anything they need.

Best Activities on Molokai Island

Go for a mule ride: These mules will take you down the highest sea cliffs in the world, so hang on tight! The tours usually go to Kalaupapa, where people with leprosy were torn from their families and isolated, and some still live there today.

You’ll learn about the leper colony and see the grave of Father Damien, the priest who came and helped these unfortunate people.

Take an air tour: Take a flight around the island of Molokai to truly see what this gorgeous Island looks like from above. 

Visit the Halawa valley: You can only access this valley on a guided tour, but it’s well worth it. The Halawa Valley is one of Molokai Island’s lushest and most verdant valleys. Breathtaking views, tropical plants and wildlife, and historic sites make this valley a must-see on Molokai.

Getting Around on Molokai Island

There is no public transport on Molokai, so if you want to get around the Island, you’ll need to rent a car. I recommend Alamo Car Rental at the airport.

They have a great selection of vehicles, and their rates are very reasonable. They offer a complimentary shuttle service to and from the rental office. Once you have your car, driving around Molokai is a breeze.

The Island is small enough to quickly get from one end to the other in just a few hours. There are also plenty of scenic pull-offs where you can stop and enjoy the view.

6) Lanai Island

With the nickname “Hawaii’s most enticing island,” you’ll want to visit Lanai as soon as possible. This is an island of contradictions. You can stay in a high-end resort and go off the beaten track.

Lanai is an excellent island to visit if you want to get away from it all and relax and explore. There are abandoned pineapple plantations everywhere because Lanai used to produce most of the world’s pineapple supply.

But these days, the Island is better known for its breathtaking landscapes, secluded beaches, and luxury resorts.

Lanai has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an adventure-filled trip.

Where to Stay on Lanai Island

Two 5-star hotels on the Island are operated by Four Seasons.

The Manele Bay resort is located on the Island’s southern coast, while the Lodge at Ko’ele is in the central highlands.

If you’re looking for a less expensive option, the Hotel Lanai is a good choice. It’s clean and centrally located, though some rooms lack phones.

There are no hostels in Lanai, but the de Brums Lānaʻi is a budget-friendly option for those who prefer to spend more on activities.

Whichever location you choose, you’re sure to enjoy your time in this beautiful place.

Best Activities on Lanai Island

Lanai is a great place to visit if you’re looking to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

The Island doesn’t have as many adventure activities as other Hawaiian islands, but there’s still plenty to do. Snorkeling is popular, and Manele Bay is a great place to start.

You can also rent a four-wheel-drive vehicle and explore some of the Island’s less accessible areas. Munro Trail is a popular spot for exploring, and you will find plenty of beautiful scenery along the way.

Getting Around on Lanai Island

The Island can be tricky to navigate because there’s no public transport system. Your best bet is to rent a car, especially if you want to explore beyond the resort area.

Remember that only 30 miles of the Island’s roads are paved, so you’ll need a four-wheel-drive vehicle to access most of the Island. Another option is to hire a driver and guide. This can be a great way to see the Island, especially if you are unfamiliar with the area.

7) Niihau Island

Niihau Island is often referred to as the “forbidden island.” Elizabeth Sinclair purchased the Island in 1863 for $10,000.

The Robinson family has owned it since then. The Robinson family has made it their mission to preserve the Hawaiian culture on Niihau, so the Island has no restaurants, hotels, or roads.

The Hawaiian language is the primary language spoken on Niihau, and there are only 250 residents in the tiny town of Puuwai. This isolated community does not have running water or electricity.

Despite the challenges of living on Niihau, the residents are proud of their culture and passionate about keeping it alive.

The only way to see Niihau is by taking a tour. The tours are expensive, but they are the only way to know the Island.

The village is private, and there is no interaction with the people of Niihau on these tours. However, you will be able to fly over the town briefly and be given an aerial time of the Island.

After landing on one of the beaches, you’ll be able to relax and sunbathe, gather some of the famous Niihau shells, and do some snorkeling.

8) Kaho’olawe

Kaho’olawe has a fascinating history. For starters, it’s only 11 miles long and six miles wide. It was never heavily populated because of a shortage of fresh water.

During World War II, after the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor, the United States Army used the island as a training ground and bombing range.

This is why it’s often referred to as “The Target Island.” The munitions testing continued until 1990 when President George Bush finally stopped using it as a weapon range.

The Island was then returned to the Hawaiian people. Kaho’olawe is uninhabited today, but it’s still culturally significant to Native Hawaiians. Thanks to its clear waters and vibrant coral reef, it’s also a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling.

However, the Island is now open to volunteers who want to help with cleanup efforts. Volunteers can stay on the Island for free, and they will be taught about the Island’s history and culture. If you’re interested in volunteering, you can sign up on the Island’s website.

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