Perfect Hawaii itinerary: Explore Oahu, Maui & Big Island

Plan your trip with this perfect Hawaii itinerary! Explore Oahu, Maui, and Big Island, and check out stunning beaches, hikes, and must-see spots.

About this Hawaii itinerary

Planning a trip to Hawaii can feel overwhelming with so many incredible islands, beaches, and activities to choose from. That’s why I’ve created this perfect 17-day Hawaii itinerary, covering the highlights of Oahu, Maui, and Big Island. For me, this was the perfect itinerary for my first visit to Hawaii.

I visited Hawaii solo in May and spent just over two weeks exploring three of its stunning islands. For me, this was the ideal amount of time. It was not too rushed, but also not too long, since Hawaii is a pricey destination, especially when traveling solo. I stayed in a mix of accommodations, from Airbnb apartments to hostels and even campsites, to balance comfort with budget.

This itinerary combines iconic must-sees like Pearl Harbor and Volcanoes National Park with personal tips and more off-the-beaten-path experiences. Get ready for an amazing Hawaii experience in just 17 unforgettable days!

The perfect Hawaii itinerary

We’ll start this itinerary in the capital of Hawaii, Honolulu. This is also home to the largest international airport on the Archipel and is located on the island of Oahu.

Day 1 to 6: Oahu – Waikiki & beyond

When arriving in Honolulu, head straight to Waikiki. Waikiki is the place to be, Honolulu’s most famous neighborhood, filled with skyscrapers, shopping malls, and a gorgeous beach. This is the place to relax on the beach for a couple of days.

Personal Tip: Visit Queens Beach, which is quieter compared to the busier Waikiki Beach lined with hotels.

Exploring Oahu from Waikiki is simple and budget-friendly. You don’t need a car to get around, thanks to “The Bus,” Honolulu’s public transit system. A single ride is $3 and a day ticket costs $7.50. If you want to visit the island’s north or east side, renting a car for a day is a great option.

Must-sees on Oahu

• Waimea Bay: A stunning beach, great for swimming or simply relaxing.
• Pearl Harbor: A historic site and must-visit for history buffs. Make sure to make a reservation (only $1) to visit the Arizona Memorial.
• Diamond Head: Hike to the top for incredible panoramic views of Honolulu.
• Hanauma Bay: A beautiful bay perfect for snorkeling (reservations required).
• Kualoa Ranch: The backdrop for iconic movies like Lost and Jurassic Park. Make sure to book a tour, as that is the only way to explore this private ranch.
• Kahuku: Known for its food trucks serving delicious local dishes.

More Oahu tips

• Hostel tip $: The Beach Waikiki Boutique Hostel – One of the highest rated hostels in Waikiki in a great location, just a few steps from the beach.
• Hotel tip $$: VIVE Hotel Waikiki – Modern, beautifully decorated and just a few steps from the beach.
• Fun thing to do: Turtle Canyon Snorkel from Waikiki (yes, you’re guaranteed to see turtles!)
• Read more: Epic 7 days in Oahu Itinerary

Day 7 to 11: Maui

In the morning, you’ll fly from Oahu to the island of Maui. The flight takes less than an hour. Book a morning flight so you have plenty of time to explore upon arrival. Once you land, pick up a rental car. This is essential for getting around Maui and making the most of your time on the island.

Day 7 & 8: Road to Hana

After picking up your rental car, head east and follow the signs to Hana. The Road to Hana is one of the highlights of any visit to Maui. This winding road hugs the northern coastline and offers stunning views and countless stops along the way.

One of my favorite stops was Ho‘okipa Lookout, where I spotted huge sea turtles swimming near the shore. As you continue east, the road becomes narrower and more winding, so take your time and enjoy the journey. Along the way, you’ll drive through a lush rainforest filled with bamboo groves and breathtaking waterfalls.

Once you reach the village of Hana, you’ll find plenty to explore. Waianapanapa State Park is a must-visit for its unique black sand beach and scenic views. Hana itself is a charming, laid-back town with a few hotels, restaurants, and lots of natural beauty. Spend a night or two here to fully enjoy the area.

Fun things to do in Hana

• Snorkeling at nearby beaches
• Hiking through the rainforest or along the coastline
• Exploring hidden waterfalls

Accommodation tips

• Camping $: Waianapanapa State Park – This is where I stayed (I brought my own camping equipment). A beautiful location and just a short hike to the black sand beach.
• Hotel tip $$$: Hana-Maui Resort – The only hotel in the area and a beautiful one! It has a gorgous garden with an outdoor pool overlooking the ocean.

Day 9: Haleakala National Park

To get to Haleakala National Park, you’ll drive back along the same road you took to Hana. At a certain point, follow the signs that guide you to the park. Be prepared for a long and winding drive up the mountain. It’s essential to fuel up before starting this journey, as there are no gas stations on the way to the summit.

At the top of Haleakala, sitting at an elevation of 3000 meters, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Maui and even Big Island on a clear day.

The landscape in Haleakala National Park is unlike anything I’ve ever seen. It feels otherworldly, with vibrant colors, unique rock formations, and sweeping views of the crater. I highly recommend taking a short hike into the crater itself, even if you’re short on time.

For an unforgettable experience, consider visiting Haleakala at sunrise. Watching the sun rise above the clouds is nothing short of magical. Do note that you’ll need a permit for this, so be sure to reserve it in advance through the park’s website.

Even if you only have 4 days in Maui, Haleakala National Park is a must-see.

Accommodation tips

• Camping $: Hosmer Grove Campground – Small campground near the park entrance. $5 per night, make a reservation up to 6 months in advance.
• Hotel tip $$$: Kula Lodge – Great accommodation on a hill, not too far from the entrance to Haleakala National Park.

Day 10 and 11: Explore the southwest coast of Maui

From Haleakala National Park, head towards Wailea-Makena, a vibrant area known for its luxurious resorts and stunning beaches. Along this stretch of coastline, you’ll find plenty of beautiful beach parks where you can relax, swim, or snorkel. Be sure to bring your snorkel gear, as this area is home to some of Maui’s best underwater spots, teeming with marine life.

If you’re a foodie, you’ll love the variety of dining options in Wailea-Makena. While the restaurants are excellent, some of the best meals come from the local food trucks offering fresh, flavorful dishes at reasonable prices.

Lahaina, once a charming historic town and a popular base for exploring Maui, was largely destroyed by a devastating fire in 2023. The community is in the process of rebuilding, and it’s important to approach the area with respect for the locals who have experienced such a significant loss. Check for updated information before visiting. If Lahaina isn’t an option, consider staying in nearby areas like Kaanapali or Kihei, which also offer great access to Maui’s highlights.

Highlights of the southwest coast

• Snorkeling at popular spots like Makena Landing and Maluaka Beach
• Relaxing at Big Beach (Makena Beach State Park)
• Exploring Lahaina’s historic sites and waterfront

More Maui tips

• Camping $: Camp Olowalu – I stayed at this campground myself and it’s really nice. The backdrop with the mountains and the ocean right in front of you makes it very scenic.
• Hotel tip $$$: Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa – One of the most beautiful and highest rated hotels in Lahaina. It has a large tropical garden with a gorgeous outdoor pool.
• Read more: 25 Best Maui Snorkeling Spots & Tours

Day 12 to 17: Big Island

From Maui, it’s only a short flight to go to Big Island (or the Island of Hawaii). This is the largest island of the archipel. Here you’ll pick up a rental car to explore the island.

Day 12 & 13: Explore the North and East coast of Big Island

Begin your adventure on Big Island by flying into Kona Airport. From here, drive along the northern coastline, making stops at beach parks to relax and soak in the island’s beauty.

As you continue along the northern coast, head towards Hilo. A must-see stop along the way is Akaka Falls State Park, where you can marvel at its stunning waterfalls. For a more local experience, consider staying in the small village of Pahoa. The town offers a relaxed atmosphere and is an excellent base for exploring nearby areas.

If you prefer a larger city, Hilo is a great alternative with its variety of accommodations and dining options. From Pahoa or Hilo, you can easily explore the island’s west coast and see remnants of the 2018 volcanic eruption, including incredible lava fields.

Highlights of the North and East coast

• Akaka Falls State Park
• Relaxing at beach parks along the northern coastline
• Exploring local life and culture in Pahoa

Accommodation tips

• Hostel tip $: Howzit Hostels Hawaii – Great budget option. The dormitories offer a lot of privacy and there’s a nice communal kitchen and common room to relax in.
• Hotel tip $$$: Lava Tree Tropic Inn – Fantastic local stay near Pahoa, the owners are incredible friendly.

Day 14: Volcanoes National Park, Big Island

Volcanoes National Park is a must-see on Big Island. At some places, you’ll see steam coming from the earth, lots of craters and lava fields. It’s highly recommended to follow the Chain of Craters Road all the way to the Hōlei Sea Arch.

Along the road, there are several stops with trailheads. One of my favorites was the one to Pu`u Loa Petroglyphs. Here you can see some ancient drawings in the lava rocks.

If you’ve seen it all in Volcanoes National Park, it’s time to drive down south and visit Punalu’u Black Sand Beach on your way to Kailua. This is the place to see green sea turtles chilling on a black sand beach.

Day 15, 16 and 17: Kailua, Big Island

During your last couple of days, you’ve got some time to relax on the great beaches on the east coast of Big Island. Some beautiful places are Ho‘okena Beach Park, Captain James Cook Monument, Kahalu’u Beach Park, Old Kona Airport State Recreation Area, and Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park.

Whatever you do, take your snorkel set with you at all times. Kailua is a great place to stay, with lots of shops (get your souvenirs!) and restaurants.

Accommodation tips

• Hostel tip $: My Hawaii Hostel – Great option for a smaller budget. There are dorms and private rooms and the hostel is in a great location.
• Hotel tip $$$: Aston Kona By The Sea (4⭐) – Very nice hotel with an outdoor pool and ocean views. The rooms are spacious and have a kitchen.

Itinerary for Hawaii: some extra tips

Planning a trip to Hawaii can be overwhelming, especially if it’s your first visit. These tips will help you make the most of your time, budget, and experience while exploring the islands.

Hawaii is expensive, so prepare yourself for that. Prices for groceries, meals, and accommodations are significantly higher than on mainland USA. Every island has a Walmart, but even there, prices can be up to three times as high due to the logistics of flying everything in. Hotels and restaurants can be costly too, so plan your budget accordingly. Camping and cooking your own meals helped me save a lot during my trip, and it’s a great way to enjoy Hawaii’s natural beauty without breaking

Do you have more than 17 days? Add the island of Kauai to this itinerary. Kauai, often called the “Garden Island,” is known for its lush landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and incredible hiking opportunities, making it a perfect addition to your trip.

Take your time for each island! Personally, I found five days on each island to be perfect for a first visit. However, I could’ve stayed longer on Big Island, as it has so much to explore. If you love outdoor adventures and diverse landscapes, consider extending your stay here.

Book a trip to Hawaii!

Ready to turn this itinerary into reality? Here’s everything you need to plan your dream trip to Hawaii, from flights and rental cars to travel insurance and activities.

✈️ Flights – Start your Hawaii adventure by flying into Honolulu (Oahu), Kahului (Maui), or Kona (Big Island), depending on your itinerary. Hawaii is well connected to the mainland USA and international destinations. Use WayAway to find the best flight deals and earn cashback on your tickets.

🚘 Rental car – The best way to explore Hawaii’s islands is by rental car. A car gives you the freedom to reach remote beaches, national parks, and scenic viewpoints. Compare options on Rental Cars for the best deals tailored to your trip.

💊 Travel insurance – Good travel insurance is essential for peace of mind while exploring Hawaii. Whether you’re hiking in Volcanoes National Park or snorkeling in Hanauma Bay, it’s better to be prepared. Use Insubuy to find the coverage that suits your needs.

🌺 Tours and activities – Take your trip to the next level with unforgettable tours and activities. From snorkeling with sea turtles to helicopter rides over volcanic craters, Hawaii offers endless adventures. Explore all options on Get Your Guide and find something perfect for your itinerary.

Read more about Hawaii

Get one of these amazing guidebooks:

Frommers Hawaii

Fodor’s Essential Hawaii

I’ve also written more about Hawaii and other incredible destinations in the USA on this website. Check out these articles for more travel tips and ideas:

• Visiting Hawaii for the first time: tips & tricks
• How much does a trip to Hawaii cost?
• Big Island Hawaii: 7 awesome things to do

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This article was originally published in September 2019 and last updated in January 2025 with even more Hawaii tips.

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