10 Days Hawaii, USA Itinerary
This 10-day Hawaiian adventure takes you through the iconic landscapes of Oahu, the stunning beaches of Maui, and the volcanic wonders of the Big Island. Experience authentic Hawaiian culture, indulge in delicious local food, and create unforgettable memories across these three diverse islands.
Duration
10 days
Budget
$1500-2000
Best Time
Hawaii enjoys pleasant weather year-round, with two main seasons: 'summer' (May-October) which is warmer and drier, and 'winter' (November-April) which is slightly cooler and wetter
Activities
47
Daily Avg
$175/day
Cities
Oahu (3d), Maui (3d), Big Island (4d)
Pace
Moderate
Hawaii offers a unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and thrilling activities. From volcanic landscapes to pristine beaches, and from historical sites to delicious local cuisine, Hawaii has something for everyone. This itinerary explores three distinct islands, offering a diverse Hawaiian experience.
Your itinerary covers 7 of 10 must-have experiences
Iconic Beach Day
Day 1: Waikiki Beach Relaxation
Volcanic Landscape Exploration
Day 7: Volcanoes National Park Exploration
Traditional Hawaiian Luau
Day 2: Lunch at Helena's Hawaiian Food
Underwater Marine Adventure
e.g., Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve (Oahu), Molokini Crater (Maui)
Scenic Coastal Drive
Day 5: Start the Road to Hana
WWII History Immersion
e.g., USS Arizona Memorial (Oahu), Battleship Missouri Memorial (Oahu)
Lush Waterfall Hike
Day 6: Waimoku Falls (Pipiwai Trail)
Local Food Truck & Market
Day 3: Lunch at Giovanni's Shrimp Truck
Surfing Lesson or Observation
Day 1: Waikiki Beach Relaxation
Stargazing Experience
e.g., Mauna Kea Summit (Big Island), Haleakalฤ Summit (Maui)
Hawaiian cuisine is a vibrant blend of Polynesian, Asian, and Western influences, resulting in unique and flavorful dishes. From fresh seafood to hearty comfort food, there's something to satisfy every palate. Be prepared to embrace the spirit of 'Aloha' and indulge in the local culinary delights.
Must-Try Dishes
Diced raw fish (usually ahi tuna) marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, seaweed, and other seasonings. A refreshing and iconic Hawaiian staple.
๐ Poke shops, supermarkets, restaurants throughout Hawaii
Slow-cooked pork, traditionally roasted in an underground oven (imu). The meat is tender, smoky, and incredibly flavorful.
๐ Luau feasts, Hawaiian restaurants, plate lunch spots
A hearty plate consisting of white rice, a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy. A classic Hawaiian comfort food.
๐ Plate lunch spots, diners, local restaurants
A refreshing dessert made with finely shaved ice and flavored syrups. Often topped with condensed milk or azuki beans.
๐ Shave ice stands throughout the islands
Food Neighborhoods
Authentic Asian cuisine and dim sum
Shrimp trucks and casual eateries
Trendy restaurants and cafes
Diverse dining options, from casual to upscale
Vegetarian and vegan options are increasingly available, especially in tourist areas. Poke bowls can be customized with tofu or vegetables. Many restaurants offer gluten-free options. Always inquire about ingredients and preparation methods to ensure your dietary needs are met. Halal options are more limited, but available in larger cities.
It's customary to show appreciation for your meal. Saying "Ono!" (delicious) is a common way to express enjoyment. Tipping is expected at restaurants (15-20%). When invited to a luau, it's polite to bring a small gift for the host.
Aloha Festivals
SeptemberA celebration of Hawaiian culture with parades, music, and dance.
Merrie Monarch Festival
AprilA prestigious hula competition held in Hilo, Big Island. Accommodation and flights book up well in advance.
Hawaii Food & Wine Festival
October/NovemberA culinary festival showcasing local chefs and ingredients.
๐ฃ๏ธInteresting Detours & Side Trips
- ๐ถArrive at Honolulu International Airport (HNL) & Check-in at hotel in Waikiki using a taxi/Uber/Lyft or airport shuttle.$30 (Shuttle) / $40/day (Rental Car)
2:00 PM - Arrive at Honolulu International Airport (HNL) & Check-in
Pick up your rental car (recommended) or take an airport shuttle to your hotel in Waikiki. Check in and leave your luggage.
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- ๐ถWaikiki Beach is within walking distance from most hotels in Waikiki.$15 (Chair/Umbrella Rental)
4:00 PM - Waikiki Beach Relaxation
Head to Waikiki Beach for a relaxing afternoon. Take a dip in the ocean, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the scenery. Rent a beach chair and umbrella for added comfort.
- ๐ถDuke's Waikiki is located on Waikiki Beach, a short walk from most hotels.$30
6:00 PM - Sunset Dinner at Duke's Waikiki
Enjoy dinner at Duke's Waikiki, a popular beachfront restaurant known for its lively atmosphere and delicious Hawaiian cuisine. Try the Huli Huli Chicken or the fresh catch of the day. Make a reservation in advance, especially for sunset.
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- ๐ถKalakaua Avenue is the main street in Waikiki, easily accessible on foot.FREE
8:00 PM - Waikiki Stroll
Take a leisurely stroll along Kalakaua Avenue, the main street in Waikiki, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife and souvenir shops.
Book on Klook
Waikiki
Waikiki is the heart of Honolulu, offering easy access to the beach, restaurants, shops, and attractions.
๐ Best Time to Visit
Hawaii enjoys pleasant weather year-round, with two main seasons: 'summer' (May-October) which is warmer and drier, and 'winter' (November-April) which is slightly cooler and wetter. Peak travel seasons are December-April (for whale watching and holidays) and June-August (for summer holidays), leading to higher prices and larger crowds. The shoulder seasons (April-May and September-November) offer good weather, fewer crowds, and better deals. Annual events like the Aloha Festivals (September) or the Merrie Monarch Festival (April) can also influence travel times.
Hawaii enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The shoulder seasons offer pleasant weather with less rainfall and humidity than the winter months. Expect sunny days and comfortable evenings.
Shoulder seasons (April-May and September-November) offer a balance of good weather, fewer crowds, and better deals.
Major holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's can significantly impact prices and availability.
Getting Around
Car-centric; major cities have transit
City-specific
Uber/Lyft work nationwide. Rent a car outside major cities.
Travel
$400 (Inter-island flights and local transport)Accommodation
$600 (Budget-friendly hotels/Airbnb)Food
$500 (Mix of restaurants and groceries)Activities
$500 (Entrance fees and tours)Eat at local spots like food trucks, farmers' markets, or 'plate lunch' establishments for delicious and more affordable meals than resort restaurants.
Utilize local supermarkets (e.g., Foodland, Safeway, KTA Super Stores) for groceries to prepare snacks, drinks, and some meals, especially if your accommodation has a kitchen.
A helicopter tour over the islands offers unparalleled, breathtaking views of volcanoes, waterfalls, and inaccessible coastlines, making for an unforgettable experience.
Invest in a high-quality luau experience. While there are cheaper options, a premium luau often provides superior food, entertainment, and cultural immersion that's worth the extra cost.
Take advantage of Hawaii's abundant free activities: countless pristine beaches, scenic hikes, snorkeling spots (bring your own gear), and spectacular sunset viewing points.
Look for 'Happy Hour' deals at local restaurants and bars, which often offer discounted food and drinks during specific afternoon hours.
- **Malama Aina (Care for the Land):** Always respect Hawaii's environment, sacred sites, and local culture. Stay on marked trails, don't touch or feed wildlife, and practice 'leave no trace' principles.
- **Reef-Safe Sunscreen:** Only use mineral-based sunscreens (zinc oxide/titanium dioxide) as chemical sunscreens are banned due to their harmful effects on coral reefs. This is mandatory if you plan to enter the ocean.
- **Ocean Safety:** Heed all warning signs, ask locals about current conditions, and never turn your back on the ocean. Be aware of strong currents, varying wave sizes, and marine life.
- **Rent a Car:** For most islands (especially outside Honolulu), a rental car is essential for independent exploration and reaching many attractions. Book well in advance, as they can sell out or become very expensive.
- **Tipping Culture:** Standard U.S. tipping practices apply: expect to tip 15-20% for service staff (restaurants, bars, taxi drivers, tour guides), and consider tipping hotel porters and housekeepers.
- **Embrace 'Aloha Spirit':** Adopt the relaxed, friendly local pace. Be patient, polite, and open to engaging with locals respectfully. Rush-hour traffic, especially in Honolulu, can be heavy.
- **Hydration and Sun Protection:** Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated in the tropical climate and use hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing to guard against strong UV rays.
- **VOG (Volcanic Smog):** If visiting the Big Island (Hawaii Island), be aware of vog, a volcanic smog from Kilauea, which can cause respiratory issues for sensitive individuals. Check current conditions before travel.
- 1Reef-safe sunscreen (mineral-based zinc oxide/titanium dioxide)
- 2Multiple swimsuits for frequent beach and water activities
- 3Light, breathable clothing (shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, linen, cotton)
- 4Sturdy hiking sandals or water shoes for beach walks and light trails
- 5Comfortable closed-toe walking/hiking shoes for exploring towns and more extensive trails
- 6Wide-brimmed hat and polarized sunglasses for essential sun protection
- 7Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste
- 8Light rain jacket or poncho for sudden, localized tropical showers
- 9Insect repellent, especially for evenings or venturing into lush, forested areas
- 10Rash guard for sun protection while swimming, snorkeling, or surfing
Flights
Book 3-6 months in advance, especially for peak season, for better prices and availability.
Accommodation (Hotels/Rentals)
Book 3-6 months ahead, particularly for popular resorts or unique stays, as they fill up quickly.
Rental Car
Crucial for exploring most islands; book immediately after confirming flights, as demand is high and prices can rise significantly.
Inter-island Flights
If island hopping, book 2-3 months in advance as routes can be limited and fill up quickly.
Popular Luaus / Tours (e.g., volcano, snorkeling)
For specific dates or high-rated experiences, book 1-2 months in advance to secure your spot.
National Park Reservations (e.g., Haleakala Sunrise)
Required for sunrise viewing at Haleakala; book up to 60 days in advance as permits are highly limited.
Travel Insurance
Recommended to cover unexpected cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage. Purchase shortly after initial bookings.
Entry Visa / ESTA
Apply for an ESTA (for eligible Visa Waiver Program countries) or appropriate visa well in advance of your travel date.
Note: Travel conditions, regulations, and local customs may change. We recommend verifying essential details โ such as visa requirements, emergency contacts, and payment options โ closer to your travel date.
SIM & Connectivity
SIM Options
๐ Airalo app or website
๐ Nomad app or website
๐ T-Mobile stores, Best Buy, Target
๐ Online pre-booking with airport pickup/delivery
Free WiFi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants, especially in tourist areas. Some public areas, like parks and beaches, may offer limited free WiFi. However, speeds can vary significantly.
Useful Apps
Consider downloading offline maps before your trip, as cellular service can be spotty in remote areas. Check your hotel's WiFi policy before arrival. Purchasing a local SIM card or eSIM can be a cost-effective way to stay connected if you plan to explore beyond WiFi hotspots. Pocket WiFi is a good option for families or groups traveling together.
Electric Socket Guide
Socket Types
Two flat parallel pins
Two flat parallel pins + round ground
120V
60Hz
Tipping Etiquette
18โ20% (before tax)
15โ20%
$2โ5 per bag; $2โ5/night housekeeping
Tipping is expected. 18โ20% is standard at restaurants.
Safety & Travel Advisories
Hawaii is generally a safe destination. Be aware of potential natural hazards like strong currents, volcanic activity, and sun exposure. Protect belongings from theft in tourist areas.
Check official government advisories for the latest safety information, entry requirements, and travel warnings before your trip.
Emergency Numbers
911
911
911
911 for all emergencies
Payments
Cards preferred everywhere
Universally accepted
Common
Credit cards accepted everywhere. Apple Pay/Google Pay widely available.
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Trip Summary
How was this itinerary?
The shoulder seasons (April-May and September-November) are generally considered the best times to visit Hawaii. You'll experience pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and potentially lower prices compared to the peak seasons of summer and winter. However, Hawaii is a year-round destination with something to offer in every season.
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