10 Days Island Hopping in Hawaii: Oahu, Maui and the Big Island

About USD 4,881 for 2 travelers · 1 room · 10 days: hotels, food, activities, local transport and travel between places. Flights from your city not included.

Citizens from visa-waiver program countries, including the US, UK, EU, Australia, and Japan, typically need an approved ESTA for stays up to 90 days. All other nationalities usually require a visa obtained in advance from a US embassy or consulate. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure.

Hawaii is generally very safe, with violent crime being rare. However, property theft, particularly car break-ins at tourist spots, is common. Solo female travelers will find tourist areas like Waikiki (Oahu) and Lahaina (Maui) very safe, even at night. Always exercise caution in less-touristed, darker areas and stick to well-populated places.

The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). While credit cards are widely accepted at most establishments, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases, food trucks, farmers markets, or in more remote areas where card readers might not be available.

Tipping in Hawaii follows standard US practices. Expect to tip 15-20% for good service at restaurants, bars, and for various tour operators. It's also customary to tip taxi drivers, hotel housekeepers (usually $3-5 per night), and bellhops.

Beyond basic clothing, definitely pack reef-safe sunscreen (zinc oxide/titanium dioxide), a wide-brimmed hat, quick-dry swimwear, a lightweight rain jacket for tropical showers, and sturdy closed-toe hiking shoes for trails. Water shoes are also useful for rocky beaches, and a rash guard provides sun protection while swimming.

The dry season (April-October) offers the warmest, sunniest weather, averaging 27-31°C (80-88°F), but also higher prices and crowds. The wet season (November-March) is cooler, 24-28°C (75-83°F), with more rain on windward sides. Shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) offer a good balance of weather, fewer crowds, and better value.

Rental cars are highly recommended for Maui and Big Island to explore independently; book well in advance. On Oahu, Honolulu has TheBus public transport, and ride-shares (Uber/Lyft) are available. From Honolulu (HNL), shuttles, taxis, and ride-shares serve Waikiki. From Maui (OGG) and Kona (KOA), rental cars are the primary mode, with some shuttle/taxi options.

Yes, Hawaii is generally considered an expensive destination due to its remote location and reliance on imported goods. Accommodation, rental cars (especially last-minute), and groceries can be particularly pricey. Eating at local food trucks and cooking some meals can help manage costs.