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Large Brush Fires Impacting Maui and Hawaii Islands (August 8, 2023)

Guide to and questions concerning connecting thru hnl & other hawai`i airports, 2021 onwards - consolidated "f/j/c to/from hawaii - questions & observations" thread, master hawaiʻi meet-up/lounge access thread, big island: consolidated "south kona-kona-north kohala-waimea restaurants" thread, honolulu activities planning, hawaii is ridiculously unaffordable: who's travelling there, does hnl have expedited customs, consolidated "restaurant recommendations on kaua`i (2021-onward)" thread, runway damage/repairs impacting kona aiport (koa) flights [early 2024], oahu hike recommendations/suggestions, consolidated "going to pearl harbor -- questions & suggestions" thread, consolidated "renting cars in honolulu or at hnl - questions/suggestions" thread, consolidated "renting cars on maui - options, questions, suggestions" (2016+) thread, consolidated "restaurant recommendations on maui (post-2023 fires)" thread, driving to mauna kea summit here is the new experience, consolidated "road to hana" thread, consolidated "parking in waikiki - options, questions, suggestions" thread, consolidated hnl/honolulu/waikiki/oahu restaurants & bars thread (2020 and onward), question re prince hotel waikiki, koa-lax/sfo in first, would you prefer a 757-300 on ua or an a321neo on aa, connecting in ogg (aa from dfw to wn to lih), consolidated "bringing/shipping pineapples from hawaii to the u.s. mainland" thread, hawaii gas prices, two big island questions (where to stay and tour options), kilauea (big island) volcano eruption - jan, jun, and sept 2023 activity, consolidated "maui restaurants" thread, four seasons on lanai, luxury hotel / resort in maui end of october.

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  • Hawaii Itinerary ...

Hawaii Itinerary 7- 10 Days

Hi i have an unexpected opportunity to visit Hawaii with my daughter in November. I know very little about Hawaii and am seeking ideas for an itinerary please. We are into History, Nature and exploring.

Aloha, Do you know what island you will be visiting? The island of Hawaii would be great for history, nature (volcanoes and rain forest), and exploring in general. It is very rural and offers a little bit of everything. Of course if you need a bit of city life and must see Waikiki then Oahu would be the island to visit. It would be great to rent a car on any island. Only Oahu has city driving, all the other islands are mostly 2 lane highways. All the islands have something unique to offer and they are all beautiful. Have a great trip. Mel from Kauai

Aloha, that sounds perfect for us! We would like to visit Waikiki too so would we fly into Honolulu and have 3 or 4 days there and then fly onto the island of Hawaii. Can we fly back from there to Sydney or would we have to go back to Oahu?

I just checked on Expedia and saw that most flights fly from Hilo, Hawaii with a connecting flight on Oahu to Sydney. Have fun, be sure to experience the local food too. Check it out on trip advisor. Mel

virginia, the best guide books I have seen for travel in Hawaii, are the "....Revealed" series, as in "Oahu Revealed", "Maui Revealed", etc. You can check out the website by googling Hawaii Revealed. Lots of great info on off-the beaten path things, and not focused on the high-end luxury resort traveler. I lend my copies out to everyone I know who goes there.

Oh, and you must go 10 days, to see two islands. One week is not enough.

Starting point would be knowing the island that your daughter resides on. You would likely want to spend time with her and use her local knowledge.

With 10 days, splitting time (3 or 4 days) on a second island would add to the experience.

Edgar, the way I read the OP's post, she is going to Hawaii WITH her daughter, not to visit her daughter.

Hi, thanks everyone so far who has posted. It is all very helpful. Yes i am travelling with my 21 year old daughter and then she heads on over to Florida to study. I will try and get those books to read as i need to know a lot more before i book anything. I agree i think it has to be 10 days and it will be Oahu and the Big Island at the moment. Still gathering info, so any more ideas as to where do i fly into and which side of the Big island we should stay on would be great, thanks everyone 😄

I visit Hawaii regularly since my mom lives on the Hilo side of the Big Island. You can fly to either Kona or Hilo from Oahu.

Kona has by far the best beaches and better weather. It is also more touristy. We enjoy it for its variety of beaches and the more stereotypical Hawaii activities. Turtles, manatee, body boarding etc. Historically my favorite is The City of Refuge. It is a fascinating glimpse into Hawaiian culture and well worth a visit.

Hilo is rainier but has great hiking and some phenomenol bike rental to take a tour around the caldera at Volcano Park. Lots of history there as well as natural wonders. Lava tubes and stomach dropping heights. Also rainforests with well marked trails for shorter or longer hiking possibilities.

The best is to rent a car and make a day trip around the island. You'll be amazed at the variety of the landscape. It feels like you are visiting landforms normally separated by thousands of miles as well as passing through a moonscape!

The Big Island offers a lot more variety than it's sisters. Well worth a trip from Honolulu. Incidentally, Oahu also has much to see and do but be careful when going to the most touristy locations. We've had the rental car broken into and had to waste a day filing police reports and paying for repairs. Pearl Harbor is a must-see but don't leave anything in the car!

Kona is the sunny side of the big island with resorts and Hilo is the wet side of the island. Oahu is where you'll find the history and culture stuff, along with beaches.

Car rental is super important in Hawaii. Public transit is pretty non-existent. When my friends and I go we pick up the car at the airport and stop by the big stores near the airport to stock up for the week. We use VRBO.com to find condos with BBQs and a pool and hot tub. I also like an ocean view so I can have my Kona coffee out on the lanai and watch the ocean in the early morning. If you want to go out to eat I'd recommend staying away from resort restaurants and using Yelp.com to find local places that either have a seafood or BBQ focus. Even fish at a taco truck is usually super good most places in Hawaii. Don't miss out on trying spam musubi!

Also, if you want to have a beach day, which would probably be best done on Oahu since the big island doesn't have much sand, it is best to get up early and head to the beach at 7:30 or so. By 11/12 it starts getting windy and more crowded. You can buy umbrellas at Walmart or a big grocery store and chairs can be rented at the various snorkel shops all over. I prefer a beach with trees so I can find shade that way.

There a tons of opportunities for kayaking, surfing, helicopter tours, etc. I have always avoided the concierge desk because I figured it was a rip off. This last time, however, the owner of our condo said "just use them" because it's usually the same price if not cheaper and it's just so easy that way. That was good advice! The concierge organized everything for us and just made it super easy. The one at our complex was branded the "Expedia Local Expert," so it might not be the same service in every resort.

Hi again, we decided to stay in Waikiki for 4 days, then 5 days on The Big Island with one more day in Waikiki because we have a terribly early flight out. We are going to spurge on 2 nice Resort hotels. I will post a review when i return. I am still in two minds re car hire. We will do public transport and day tours on Oahu and then maybe hire a car on The Big Island. I am nervous about driving on the other side of the road! Thanks again everyone for your help. We will do all the touristy things and anything historical plus getting out into nature! I really appreciated the weather tips on The Big Island too. We are staying in Kona. But we will definitely head over to Hilo too. Cheers Virginia

We took our family to the big island to celebrate our 50th anniversary a couple of years ago. There is one activity I would especially recommend. We booked a tour with Fair Wind II. It sails along the coast to the Captain Cook Monument. There they provide a barbeque and time for water exploration. There's snorkeling for those who know how. Also, "snuba". (Look it up.) For the really less adventurous, they provide rafts with viewing apparatus, which sufficient for us old folks and our grandson, 4 and a half at the time. The underwater scene is amazing. There are other companies that do similar excursions.

While the island of Hawaii is transit deficient with respect to tourist stuff the island of Oahu is well served. For Honolulu and Oahu transit see: http://www.thebus.org

While a rental car for a day or two will give you additional options, tourist attractions such as Hanauma Bay can be difficult if you need to park a car. See: http://www.hanaumabaystatepark.com/hanauma-bay-parking/

The parking lot at Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is relatively small and fills up daily. Depending on the season and weather conditions, Hanauma Bays parking lot fills up around 7:00 am to 7:30 am. When filled to capacity the guards at the top of the hill are notified and no other public vehicles are allowed to enter. Hanauma Bay has over 3000 visitors daily.

And if you do get into Hanauma Bay you will understand why the parking lot hits capacity so early. The Bus Route 22 serves Waikiki hotels and goes to Hanauma Bay and Sea Life Park and more. $2.50 USD per person. Runs 7 days a week: http://www.thebus.org/route/routes.asp Note:

Route 22 operates daily. Route 22 will not stop at Hanauma Bay on Tuesday, because Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is closed on Tuesday.

The Bus to Pearl Harbor: http://www.pearlharborinhawaii.com/directions.htmlhtml The Bus 42 from Waikiki/Ala Moana Center.

The other downside of having a car in Waikiki is hotel parking is extra. A number of hotels do have rental counters and trying in the morning for an around the island drive and returning in the evening could saved you the parking charge. Alternately, if you must have a car, look for a room, car parking package.

And in Hawaii, Americans don't need to carry their passport around. Leave passports, wallets, valuables in your room when you visit the beach.

Hi again, Thanks Rosalyn, I love the sound of the snorkel cruise. We will definitely be up for that one especially as we are Australians and Captain Cook is a huge part of our history. Thanks also Edgar for the comprehensive information on driving and parking on Oahu. We will definitely be using tours and public transport there. We are so looking forward to visiting and learning more about this fascinating part of the world! Cheers Virginia😊

Another perspective. My wife and I believe that Honolulu is worth no more than 2-3 nights. We covered, Pearl Harbor, climbing Diamond Head, and a trip to the North Shore in 1 1/2 days. If you are going to see Pearl Harbor understand that there are no bags allowed of any kind. You can leave it in your car or check it in at a spot that they have available. There are many resort hotels to stay at along or near Waikiki Beach. We have stayed at the Hilton a number of times which we like. We also stayed at a hotel across the street from the beach on our first trip. I believe it is now called the Aston. We had an ocean front room that looks at Waikiki and has a large tree across the street that somewhat blocks the view. We would stay there again. As other respondents have stated, you do not need a car in Honolulu unless you want to drive around the island. My wife and I are partial to the Big Island of Hawaii. We stay in Wiakoloa Village. I would recommend a car or a Jeep for this island. There are 11-13 climate zones on the Big Island itself so it gives you an idea of what to expect. Once you decide on how many nights you will spend in Hawaii, I would recommend 3 nights in Kona or Wiakoloa Village and 1 or 2 nights in Valcano Village near Hilo. There are many things to see or do on Hawaii. The Kona side is desert like until you head inland to Wiamea where you get up 300-500 meters in elevation. You can take a tour to the top of Mauna Loa (4169m) where the observatories are and watch the sunset. On the eastern side near Hilo it is lush and green. There are a number of waterfalls and look outs as you drive along. I could go on and on but I think you have an idea of how much there is to do.

The John's comment: ...Honolulu is worth no more than 2-3 nights .

There are many purposes of travel. One school of thought is to maximize the doing and seeing. That's sort of the RS mode where you return home to rest and relax.

A second school of thought is to return home rested and relaxed recharged for the day to day grind and stress of modern life. Hawaii invented "hang loose".

Beach in the morning. Some sight seeing and shopping. And just hanging loose and 4 or 5 dasys will be history.

Hi everyone, just back from a wonderful 10 days in Hawaii. Followed lots of your wonderful advice. Hired a car on The Big Island for 5 days through Alamo and did the morning cruise on the Fairwind 2 plus i tried SNUBA and loved it. Flew over the lava fields and vent with Blue Hawaiian helicopters which was a highlight and saw Green Sea Turtles on a black sand beach. Honolulu is a very busy place but the tropical trees and plants, the open pavilion architecture and the torches that light up the streets at night give it a great atmosphere. Much more laidback and quieter on the Big Island. The Saddle Road drive was like being on another planet or a moonscape. Amazing! Thanks again for all your help. Had a delicious Thanksgiving meal at Ruth's Chris Steakhouse to farewell my daughter. Service was perfect as was the turkey!

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Protect Your Trip »

All-inclusive hawaii resorts: the 9 best options.

Hawaii doesn't have all-inclusive resorts, but these are some of the best alternatives.

All-Inclusive Hawaii Resorts

Poolside drink at Turtle Bay Resort.

Courtesy of Turtle Bay Resort

While there are several all-inclusive resorts in the U.S. , you won't find them in Hawaii. Instead, many of the resorts include a variety of complimentary amenities in nightly rates, while others charge a daily resort fee to enjoy select services. Many of them also offer packages that combine additions like breakfast, transportation and/or parking with your nightly rate, so you can limit the number of times you need to pull out your wallet.

Read on to discover the best options for an all-inclusive resort-like experience in Hawaii.

Note: Packages and offerings are subject to change. Check resort websites for current offers.

Turtle Bay Resort: Oahu

Ocean Bungalow seating area at Turtle Bay Resort.

Resort fee: $50 plus tax per room, per night

Meals are essentially covered in rates for the Ocean Club Bungalows at Turtle Bay Resort, one of the best resorts in Hawaii . Guests of these accommodations enjoy access to the Ocean Club Lounge, where refreshments are served throughout the day, buffet-style. Ocean Bungalow guests also enjoy complimentary poolside treats, poolside cocktail parties on select evenings and complimentary parking, among other perks. Recent guests praise everything about Turtle Bay, from the service to the location on O'ahu's legendary North Shore.

Complimentary amenities: All hotel guests receive access to cruiser bikes (up to 45 minutes per day), beach gear, a Beats Pill speaker (based on availability), one fitness class per day, GoPro cameras (up to 24 hours), one free hour at the pickleball court and a 45-minute photo session. A daily roster of organized activities is also complimentary.

Optional packages: Turtle Bay Resort offers a package that combines hotel, flight and car rental rates for a nearly all-inclusive experience. Golf packages are also available.

Address: 57-091 Kamehameha Highway, Kahuku, HI 96731

Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort: Oahu

Aerial of Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort at sunset.

Courtesy of Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort

For a full-fledged resort experience in the heart of Waikiki, consider a stay at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort. Resort features include a variety of on-site dining options, a spa and beach access. Recent reviewers say the hotel is especially ideal for families, and that the location is perfect.

Complimentary activities: The resort fee covers access to the pools (and pool toys), the gym and fitness classes, as well as movie nights, DVD rentals, beach chairs and cultural activities. Guests also get discounts and upgrades on car rentals (minimum two-day reservation), 10% off beach services, and a discount on an activity package.

Optional packages: Offers include the "Make My Stay" package, which comes with a $350 resort credit to spend on dining or other amenities. If you're a Hawaii resident, the "Staycation! Yaycation!" package gives you 50% off self-parking, a $25 resort credit, 20% off a catamaran sailing and a spa discount.

Address: 2005 Kālia Road, Honolulu, HI 96815

Royal Kona Resort: Big Island of Hawaii

Resort fee: $25 plus tax per room, per night

Recent guests of the Royal Kona Resort, located in Kailua-Kona on the Big Island , rave about the lush tropical setting, cleanliness of the resort, and the variety of things to do on the property and nearby.

Complimentary amenities: The resort fee includes a welcome mai tai; bottled water upon arrival; access to an oceanfront pool and saltwater lagoon, where complimentary reef-safe sunscreen is available; use of the fitness center; yoga classes; and live Hawaiian music. Cultural activities like ukulele lessons, lei making and hula lessons are also covered. Guests also receive a variety of resort credits and discounts, like a $20 credit at the Lotus Center Spa and a $25 credit for a local tour.

Optional packages: There is a variety of packages that can make your stay feel more like one at an all-inclusive resort. These include the "Air Inclusive Package," with airfare and accommodations combined in one rate, and the "Car Rental & Parking Package." Plus, you can earn additional perks and discounts by signing up for the resort's free Royal Rewards loyalty program.

Address: 75-5852 Ali'i Drive, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

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Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa: Oahu

Resort fee: None

This family-friendly resort combines everyone's favorite Disney characters with a tropical paradise.

Complimentary amenities: All guests enjoy access to a variety of pools, including a lazy river; a private beach; a fitness club and classes; character meet-and-greet experiences; a family activity center; and a complimentary kids club for children ages 4 to 12. Other free experiences range from nature tours and Disney movie nights to fire pit storytelling and live Hawaiian music. You can also take advantage of ukulele and hula lessons and other fun events.

Optional packages: Of course, Aulani offers a variety of packages and discounts, a few of which include resort credits. Disney Visa cardholders are eligible for additional savings, and Disney Vacation Club Members may be eligible for upgrades.

Address: 92-1185 Ali'inui Drive, Kapolei, HI 96707

The Kahala Hotel & Resort: Oahu

Aerial of pool and beach at The Kahala Hotel & Resort.

Courtesy of The Kahala Hotel & Resort

This five-star resort offers an oceanfront escape with beach access that guests describe as a luxurious retreat with attentive service and thoughtful amenities in an exclusive residential setting. Featuring views of Diamond Head and Koko Head crater, the property is less than 5 miles from some of the best things to do in O'ahu .

Complimentary amenities: The Kahala Hotel & Resort offers bottled water, access to a health and fitness center, Hawaiian cultural classes (think: lei making and lauhala weaving), in-room coffee and tea, bicycle rentals, shuttle service to nearby shopping centers, beach loungers, and more – all without a resort fee.

Optional packages: The Kahala Hotel & Resort offers a variety of packages, including "The Kahala Signature Experience." This package includes round-trip airport transfer, breakfast for two daily and a Lomi Lomi massage for two, among other amenities.

Address: 500 Kahala Ave., Honolulu, HI 96816

The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua: Maui

Outdoor courtyard with fire pit and views of the pools and grounds of The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua.

Courtesy of Marriott International

Resort fee: $40 plus tax per room, per night

Enjoy a tropical vacation at this luxury resort situated on 54 acres with expansive ocean views and two championship golf courses. Recent travelers rave about their experience here, with many saying it exceeded their expectations.

Complimentary activities: The daily resort fee at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua covers an enhanced lei greeting, fitness classes and cultural tours, as well as activities like tennis, pickleball, basketball and shuffleboard. Guests can also swim; take a yoga or hula class; make a flower crown; go on a self-guided cultural art tour throughout the hotel; or lounge by the three-tiered pool. As the evening winds down, partake in a nightly Hawaiian sunset ceremony. During peak whale season (from mid-January to March) it's possible to spot humpbacks from the property, and guests can learn more about the local marine life through the resort's Ambassadors of the Environment program.

Optional packages: One of the best values, especially for families, is the Club Level upgrade, which grants exclusive access to The Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge at the Anuenue Room. Here, guests enjoy five complimentary food and beverage presentations throughout the day, as well as grab-and-go items to take to the beach or back to your room.

Address: 1 Ritz-Carlton Drive, Kapalua, HI 96761

Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea: Maui

Aerial of Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea from the beach.

Courtesy of Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

Recent guests of the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea praise the grounds and the variety of on-site dining options, which include the newly reopened flagship restaurant, Ferraro's Restaurant & Bar.

Complimentary amenities: At this resort – the only Maui property without a resort fee − guests can be greeted with a lei, enjoy hula and torch lighting performances nightly, try out the putting green and croquet lawn, and have fun in the game room. You can also go for a swim in the ocean or pool (where chilled treats are served throughout the day) and watch for breaching humpback whales seasonally.

Experience the outdoors by touring the gardens, paddling an outrigger canoe, taking a scuba class, and venturing beyond the resort with the property's complimentary car service to various locations throughout Wailea. Families will appreciate the free kids program with games, art, a touch pool, cultural activities, movies and more.

Optional packages: For a nearly all-inclusive experience, upgrade to the Club Floor accommodations. Additional amenities include access to the private Club Lounge with continental breakfast, afternoon tea, snacks, hors d'oeuvres, evening cocktails and dessert. The resort also offers packages that include resort credits and breakfast.

Address: 3900 Wailea Alanui Drive, Maui, HI 96753

Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows: Maui

For low-key accommodations in a convenient location at Ka'anapali in Maui, the Royal Lahaina Resort is a great option.

Complimentary activities: The resort fee includes complimentary fitness classes such as yoga and Zumba; Hawaiian cultural classes, including ukulele and hula lessons; a $20 spa service credit per room; a fitness facility; and courts for shuffleboard and bocce. Explore the grounds on a self-guided botanical garden tour, refill your water bottle at stations throughout the property, and take the shuttle to nearby shops and restaurants at Whalers Village.

Optional packages: If you stay four or more nights, you'll earn a fifth night free plus a $150 resort credit with the "High Five, Hang Ten" package. Recent visitors also recommend adding the VIP luau experience to your accommodation rate.

Address: 2780 Kekaa Drive, Lahaina, HI 96761

1 Hotel Hanalei Bay: Kauai

Guest room with ocean views at 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay.

Courtesy of AVABLU

Resort fee: $55 plus tax per room, per night

If you're looking to stay at a hotel that is environmentally friendly , LEED-certified and carbon-neutral – as well as one that focuses on wellness and promotes exploration of its natural surroundings – then head to 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay, formerly The St. Regis Princeville. This property sits next to Hanalei Bay, on the other side of Kaua'i from Poipu Beach. Guests say the idyllic setting is perfect for snorkeling, kayaking and paddleboarding.

Complimentary amenities: Guests enjoy complimentary use of bikes, access to an exclusive Audi e-tron drive program , reef-safe sunscreen, a variety of fitness and wellness experiences, and fresh seasonal fruit at the lobby farm stand. They also get preferred tee times and discounts at Princeville Makai Golf Club.

Optional packages: Take your vacation to the next level by booking a unique experience bundle with inclusions. These perks across various packages can include a helicopter tour; a private surf session with legendary surfer Bill Hamilton; daily breakfast and a couples massage; personal training; and more. The hotel also offers seasonal discounts.

Address: 5520 Ka Haku Road, Princeville, HI 96722

Frequently Asked Questions

The cheapest airfare and hotel rates in Hawaii can typically be found in April (excluding any holidays), May and September. When searching for flights, look at options on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays, as these are typically the least expensive days to fly.

O'ahu is generally considered the most affordable Hawaiian island to visit, factoring in costs for accommodations and car rentals.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Sharael Kolberg is a U.S. News & World Report contributor with a wealth of knowledge about the Hawaiian islands, having lived there for several years. She has called O'ahu and Maui home and is a graduate of the University of Hawaii's journalism program. Kolberg has visited all of the islands several times (except Ni'ihau, the "Forbidden Island"). Two of her favorite resorts are Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa – even without kids – and the luxurious Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea.

You might also be interested in:

  • The Top Affordable All-Inclusive Resorts
  • Cheap Tropical Getaways That Feel Expensive
  • The Top Beach Resorts in the World
  • The Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida

Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts

Ladybird indoor sitting area at Lake Austin Spa Resort.

Tags: Travel , All-Inclusive Vacations , Hawaii Vacations , Hotels and Resorts

World's Best Places To Visit

  • # 1 South Island, New Zealand
  • # 4 Bora Bora

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SimpleFlying

5 Ways To Fly On A Private Jet To Hawaii

O ver the years, Hawaii has become one of the hottest destinations globally, especially during winter, for its famed beaches, favorable climate, and tropical landscape. The Aloha state is a bucket list item for many travelers. While Hawaii boasts a large contingent of commercial options, there are ways to travel to see the beautiful Hawaiian Islands via business jet.

Four Seasons Hawaii Private Jet experience

Price: $227,000

One option is to travel to the Aloha state through the Four Seasons Resorts Hawaii Private Jet experience. This differs from the bespoke "air cruise" experience aboard its private Airbus A321XLR . In June 2023, the hotel chain unveiled the Hawaiian Island experience that takes guests to 4 Four Seasons resorts across the Aloha state during the 8-day trip. Four Seasons has partnered with VistaJet to shuttle travelers from the mainland United States to the Hawaiian Islands onboard one of their fleet of Bombardier Global jets. The journey begins at the Big Island of Hawaii at the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai and ends in Oahu at the Four Seasons Resort Oahu.

In regards to the inter-island flights, guests will fly on a Lanai Air Pilatus PC-12 turboprop operated by Western Aircraft between Lanai (LNY), Maui (OGG), and Oahu (HNL). The Four Seasons Hawaii experience allows guests to travel to and throughout the Aloha state stress-free, bypassing the hassle associated with travel. The main draw of the experience is the seamless experience passengers will have. All they have to do is show up, and everything from itineraries to hotels is handled. The experience designed for two guests will cost $227,000, including the round-trip private jet transfer onboard VistaJet from California.

Schedule a private jet flight

Price: $62,000-$200,000.

The popular option for most people looking to travel to Hawaii is to pick out a scheduled private jet flight to Honolulu Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) or Kapolei Kalaeloa John Rodger Airport (JRF) on a selected date. Many private jet operators based in California offer frequent flights to select tropical destinations, and considering the popularity of the Hawaiian Islands, it is almost certain that there will be seats available. That being said, the price will fluctuate depending on many factors, including the time of the year and if there are any events in the city. It will also depend on the aircraft type, as a larger aircraft will cost more.

According to data from PrivateFly , a UK-based private jet charter broker, multiple private jets are equipped to fly the 2,560 transpacific journeys between the Los Angeles area and Honolulu. One option is the Gulfstream G200, which can seat eight passengers and is estimated to cost $62,000 to charter one way and $65,000 to charter round trip. Another option is the Bombardier Global Express, which can seat anywhere from thirteen to nineteen passengers and is estimated to cost $115,000 to charter one way and $200,000 to charter round trip.

Flying on an empty leg

Price: $15,500-$25,000.

Akin to commercial jets, sometimes private jets must be repositioned between airports with no passengers to begin their next journey. Empty-leg flights allow travelers to get the entire business aviation experience at a fraction of the cost. These flights are also called ferry flights, dead-heads, and repositioning flights. Empty-leg flights are an opportunity for those who want to save money traveling on a business aircraft to seek repositioning flights to fly to Hawaii actively. That being said, it almost certainly means that you have to be flexible with your travel plans, as these flights might pop up on short notice and may travel from any number of origins.

According to Jet Partners , a company specializing in empty-leg charter flights, empty-leg flights from Hawaii to the mainland United States can offer one-way private plane pricing at up to a 75% discount. Another company, Catch-a-Jet, has created an app to connect travelers with private jet operators offering empty-leg flights. These empty-leg flights only work for short-notice leisure trips. Moreover, regarding these empty-leg flights, VistaJet stresses the importance of flexibility with your travel plans.

Jetcard membership

Price: $950 plus a deposit up to $250,000.

Private jet operators offer membership options for clients, albeit it is more than a subscription to Amazon Prime. XO Jets provides flights to Hawaii on a membership basis. They also have three membership levels: Shared Membership, Membership, and Reserve. The shared member level provides the lowest benefits, but the other two offer many benefits. For instance, the Reserve level has a $950 per hour price cap available on non-peak days. Moreover, Membership and Reserve members can waive non-member fees for up to four people per flight, ensuring a cheaper fare for the group.

Another operator is Wheels Up, which recently received a $500 million investment from Delta Air Lines to put the company on more stable footing . They offer two membership tiers, Connect and Core, and on-demand service at a more expensive price. The Core membership allows members to access private jets in as little as 48 hours, with flights priced dynamically at capped hourly rates. On the other hand, Connect members can join or initiate shared flights to fly privately for less via splitting the cost. Both companies have aircraft capable of making the transpacific journey to the Aloha state.

Charter commercial jet

Price: $31,000 per hour.

Another option to privately travel to the Aloha state is to charter through flag carrier Hawaiian Airlines charters. When chartering a plane through Hawaiian, guests can choose a route outside its route network and customize the date and time that best suits their schedule. Through chartering, passengers will be immersed in a Hawaiian experience, from the hospitality to the beverage and food options.

Smaller aircraft, naturally due to their size, have lower operating costs, which, in turn, allow potential passengers to save on charter fees. Although they have less capacity, chartering a jet from Hawaiian makes sense for larger groups as multiple aircraft types can be chartered depending on the specific need. The airline offers its chartering service onboard its Boeing 717, suitable for 128 guests; Airbus A321neo, ideal for 189 guests; and Airbus A330-200 aircraft, suitable for 276 guests. According to Hawaiian's website , although they can sometimes operate a charter with just 48 hours notice to meet all the needs and for scheduling and planning purposes, especially during the busy winter travel season, charter requests should be sent 11 months in advance.

5 Ways To Fly On A Private Jet To Hawaii

Retire To This Hawaiian City For The Most Affordable Homes

If you're looking for a great place to retire and buy a home away from the hustle and bustle of Hawaii, check out Kualapuu.

  • Live in paradise on a budget in Kualapuu, Hawaii - homes are affordable and crime rates low.
  • Enjoy an authentic, community-oriented feel in Kualapuu with stunning nature and cultural attractions.
  • Retire in Hawaii for maximum happiness - the state boasts great weather, food, and healthcare options.

Although Hawaii is notoriously expensive, there are some cheaper places where you can buy a home and retire on a budget in paradise . Kualapuu is one of the best small towns to retire in , and you can get property fairly cheaply and enjoy all the great things that come with living out your golden years in paradise. Plus, there are other lovely small towns nearby that you can explore for even more of an authentic experience.

Aerial View of Lahaina, Hawaii at Dusk

10 Small Towns In Hawaii That Give Visitors A Taste Of Local Life

Kualapuu is the cheapest place in hawaii to buy a home, live in paradise for a fraction of what you would pay in other hawaiian cities.

Kalaupapa peninsula from Kalaupapa Lookout in Kualapuu

According to our rankings, Kualapuu is the least expensive place in Hawaii to purchase a home , and you can enjoy prices that are 3.3% lower than the rest of the island state, with plenty of homes on the market today .

In addition to getting your home fairly cheaply by Hawaiian standards, you'll also enjoy the unparalleled beauty of this region, including the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean from the Kalaupapa lookout and Kalaupapa National Historical Park .

Plus, this spot is less expensive than some of the top cities on the mainland, like San Francisco, and healthcare is comparably inexpensive . The crime rate in Kualapuu is also substantially lower than the national average.

  • Median Home Price: $232,900
  • Healthcare: Strongest in the Country
  • Benefits for Retirees: Save money on certain taxes

Kualapuu Has An Idyllic And Natural Small-Town Feel

Enjoy an authentic, community-oriented feeling.

Shutterstock

If you're looking for a quiet place to live out your golden years, Kualapuu is just the ticket. This spot used to be a pineapple cannery , and today is known for being full of traditional Hawaiian restaurants and a great culture.

  • Top Attractions: Purdy's Natural Macadamia Nut Farm, Papohaku Beach Park
  • Best for a Natural Release: Kalaupapa National Historical Park

Venture outside into Kualapuu's gorgeous nature, and you could catch sight of the local hoary bat and marvel at the lush flora of the national park.

Best Things to Do in Kualapuu

There are so many great things to see and do in Kualapuu, including visiting the Kalaupapa National Historical Park , which is now a lovely national park but used to be a prison and a facility for people with leprosy. You can also get out on the links at the Ironwoods Hills Golf Club , a nine-hole public golf course with plenty of pro facilities that will help you practice your swing.

You can also spend some time at Molokai Lomi Therapeutic Massage and Healing Center , where you can get a variety of healing massages. If you want to get in some beach time, head to Kawa'Aloa Beach for a little bit of fun in the sun and some welcome solitude.

There's no doubt that you'll come up with your own top places to check out in Kualapuu as well. Once you buy your home and settle in, you'll understand why this undisturbed bit of paradise is on the top of so many lists.

Enjoy Maximum Happiness By Retiring In Hawaii

Hawaii is the happiest state in the united states.

A happy pineapple pair in a tropical setting in Maui

Whether it's the ample sun or the simply laid-back pace of life, Hawaii is the happiest state in the United States, with a fantastic, balmy climate, great healthy food, and exceptional healthcare. There's been plenty of research done on the myriad of benefits of sunshine , including boosting your serotonin levels rise and staving off depression. Plus, with so many amazing outdoor activities to participate in, you'll keep your body limber well into your later years.

Woman tourist hiking in Akaka falls State Park on Big Island, Hawaii.

This Hawaiian City May Be The Cheapest Place To Retire

If you want to make the most of your golden years and save some money on housing, Kualapuu is an excellent bet for so many reasons. Enjoy delicious cuisine, a nice community, and access to some of the best healthcare in the country.

You can also tailor your experience to your personal needs, enjoying long days luxuriating on the beach, or by practicing your golf game, or a little bit of both. If you're thinking about heading south for your retirement years, consider this small, underrated, and incredible town in Hawaii.

You won't regret it — especially if you can nab an affordable home to live in.

'A survivor of social media misdirection': Tourist who fell 1,000 feet speaks out

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A California tourist who fell 1,000 feet on a dangerous off-limits hike on Oahu in December is sharing his story, according to a press release from the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources.

California-based Ian Snyder, 34, was trekking the Koolau Summit Trail – a steep and challenging hike that's closed for being considered too dangerous – alone. He wants to warn others about the risks of following social media travel content. The Koolau Summit Trail is notorious for its narrow paths, steep ridges and inclement weather.

Following a map he saw online, Snyder ventured onto a risky path and subsequently fell to the base of a waterfall.

He lay there "in and out of consciousness" for three days, drinking stream water until he was rescued by a helicopter crew from the Honolulu Fire Department, the release said. Emergency responders were able to locate Snyder using his cell phone's last location.

"Honestly, the need for first responders and the risks they take, sadly, did not cross my mind," Snyder said in a statement. "I wasn’t thinking, what happens if I need to be rescued? I thought it was going to be a normal day hike. That’s in my mind now to consider before heading out."

Safety in parks: Grand Canyon ranked as the 'most dangerous' park, but it's not as alarming as you think

Although he had bruises and broken bones, Snyder has largely recovered, though he now experiences double vision in his right eye and wears an eyepatch.

"Don’t rely on non-trusted sources of information, as there’s loads of misinformation and misdirection online," said Curt Cottrell, DLNR Division of State Parks administrator, in a statement. The state manages trails under its Nā Ala Hele Trail and Access Program , and people can see which trails are closed and why online.

A quick search on Google comes up with blogs and social media content describing how aspiring hikers can navigate illegal hikes in Hawaii with the promise of incredible views and waterfalls. However, these trails are closed for safety concerns or trespassing through private property. Yet many people still take the risk, often hopping over people's fences in the night.

In March of last year, another hiker on the Koolau Summit Trail accidentally fell from a 100-foot cliff and had to be rescued by the HFD with a helicopter. He was transported to the hospital in serious condition.

Because illegal hiker rescues are so common in Hawaii, last year, a bill was proposed to make people pay for their own rescues. Airlifts can cost up to $2,500 an hour and usually take around two hours.

"We are grateful to have Ian, a survivor of social media misdirection, spread this message," Cottrell said. "Reducing the danger of misinformation on social media will keep our hikers and our first responders, safer."

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

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  5. An Epic Two Week Hawaii Itinerary

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COMMENTS

  1. Hawaii Forum, Travel Discussion for Hawaii, United States

    Travel forums for Hawaii. Discuss Hawaii travel with Tripadvisor travelers. Hawaii. Hawaii Tourism Hawaii Hotels Hawaii Bed and Breakfast Hawaii Vacation Rentals Flights to Hawaii Hawaii Restaurants Things to Do in Hawaii Hawaii Travel Forum Hawaii Photos All Hawaii Hotels; Hawaii Hotel Deals;

  2. Island of Hawaii Travel Forum

    Beyond destination forums. Travel forums for Island of Hawaii. Discuss Island of Hawaii travel with Tripadvisor travelers.

  3. Hawaii

    Hawaii Travel Forum . Thread / Original Poster. Last Post. Replies. Views. Forum. Oahu with Kids. traveler_t on Mar 2nd, 2024 Hawaii. Mar 2nd, 2024 05:00 PM by suze. 5. 171. United States. Up ...

  4. Oahu Forum, Travel Discussion for Oahu, Hawaii

    Travel forums for Oahu. Discuss Oahu travel with Tripadvisor travelers. Oahu. Oahu Tourism Oahu Hotels Oahu Bed and Breakfast Oahu Vacation Rentals Flights to Oahu ... Hawaii for Travelers with Disabilities; Staying safe in Hawai`i; Hawaii Down Memory Lane (Hawaii in the Past)

  5. Hawaii Forum, Travel Discussion for Hawaii, United States

    Travel forums for Hawaii. Discuss Hawaii travel with Tripadvisor travelers. Hawaii. Hawaii Tourism Hawaii Hotels Hawaii Bed and Breakfast Hawaii Vacation Rentals Flights to Hawaii Hawaii Restaurants Hawaii Attractions Hawaii Travel Forum Hawaii Photos All Hawaii Hotels; Hawaii Hotel Deals;

  6. Hawaii Forum, Travel Discussion for Hawaii

    Travel forums for Hawaii. Discuss Hawaii travel with Tripadvisor travelers. Hawaii. Hawaii Tourism Hawaii Hotels Hawaii Guest House Hawaii Holiday Homes Hawaii Flights Hawaii Restaurants Hawaii Attractions Hawaii Travel Forum Hawaii Photos All Hawaii Hotels; Hawaii Hotel Deals; Last Minute Hotels in Hawaii;

  7. Hawaii Forum, Travel Discussion for Hawaii

    Travel forums for Hawaii. Discuss Hawaii travel with Tripadvisor travellers. Hawaii. Hawaii Tourism Hawaii Accommodation Hawaii Bed and Breakfast Hawaii Holiday Rentals Hawaii Flights Hawaii Restaurants Hawaii Attractions Hawaii Travel Forum Hawaii Photos All Hawaii Hotels; Hawaii Hotel Deals;

  8. Hawaii Forum, Travel Discussion for Hawaii

    Beyond destination forums. Air Travel. See all ». Travel forums for Hawaii. Discuss Hawaii travel with Tripadvisor travelers.

  9. Hawaii Forum, Travel Discussion for Hawaii

    Hawaii Travel Forum. See all travel guides Don't miss the best of Hawaii. 3 Days in Maui. Featuring: Haleakala Highway (Crater Road), Hana Highway - Road to Hana, &. 10 more. places. Browse forums. All.

  10. Island of Hawaii Travel Forum

    by SanFrancisco... Island of Hawaii. Budget and Mauna Kea. by osu26. 2. 26 February 2024. by Emma W. Island of Hawaii. Big Island Trip Report.

  11. Hawaii Forum, Travel Discussion for Hawaii

    Travel forums for Hawaii. Discuss Hawaii travel with Tripadvisor travelers. Hawaii. Hawaii Tourism Hawaii Hotels Hawaii Bed and Breakfast Flights to Hawaii Hawaii Restaurants Hawaii Attractions Hawaii Travel Forum Hawaii Pictures All Hawaii Hotels; Hawaii Hotel Deals; Last Minute Hotels in Hawaii; By Hotel Type

  12. Hawaii Forum, Travel Discussion for Hawaii, United States

    Travel forums for Hawaii. Discuss Hawaii travel with Tripadvisor travelers. Hawaii. Hawaii Tourism Hawaii Hotels Hawaii Bed and Breakfast Hawaii Vacation Rentals Flights to Hawaii Hawaii Restaurants Hawaii Attractions Hawaii Travel Forum Hawaii Photos All Hawaii Hotels; Hawaii Hotel Deals;

  13. Hawaii Forum, Travel Discussion for Hawaii

    Travel forums for Hawaii. Discuss Hawaii travel with Tripadvisor travelers. Hawaii. Hawaii Tourism Hawaii Hotels Bed and Breakfast Hawaii Hawaii Holiday Rentals Flights to Hawaii Hawaii Restaurants Hawaii Attractions Hawaii Travel Forum Hawaii Photos All Hawaii Hotels; Hawaii Hotel Deals;

  14. Honolulu Forum, Travel Discussion for Honolulu, Hawaii

    Travel forums for Honolulu. Discuss Honolulu travel with Tripadvisor travellers. Honolulu. Honolulu Tourism Honolulu Accommodation Honolulu Bed and Breakfast Honolulu Holiday Rentals ... Hawaii forums; Oahu forums; Ask a question 26,077 topics from our community . 1-20 of 26,077 topics

  15. Hawaii

    Threads in Forum: Hawaii. Forum Tools Search this Forum. Views: 7,230 Announcement: Trending Homepage Deactivation. Feb 15, 2024 IBJoel. Views: 88 Announcement: Changes to Moderation Team - October 2023. Oct 17, 2023 FlyinHawaiian . Rating Thread / Original Poster. ... Forum Jump Contact Us - ...

  16. Hawaii Itinerary 7- 10 Days

    virginia, the best guide books I have seen for travel in Hawaii, are the "....Revealed" series, as in "Oahu Revealed", "Maui Revealed", etc. You can check out the website by googling Hawaii Revealed. Lots of great info on off-the beaten path things, and not focused on the high-end luxury resort traveler.

  17. Hawaii Forum, Travel Discussion for Hawaii

    Travel forums for Hawaii. Discuss Hawaii travel with Tripadvisor travelers. Hawaii. Hawaii Tourism Hawaii Hotels Bed and Breakfast Hawaii Hawaii Holiday Rentals Flights to Hawaii Hawaii Restaurants Hawaii Attractions Hawaii Travel Forum Hawaii Photos All Hawaii Hotels; Hawaii Hotel Deals;

  18. Report: Hawaii's pandemic recovery is 'largely complete': Travel Weekly

    Here's some good news for Hawaii's economy: A new economic report by the University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization (UHERO) said that the Islands' pandemic recovery is "largely complete."

  19. All-Inclusive Hawaii Resorts: The 9 Best Options

    If you're a Hawaii resident, the "Staycation! Yaycation!" package gives you 50% off self-parking, a $25 resort credit, 20% off a catamaran sailing and a spa discount.

  20. Hawaii tourism continues recovery from COVID, Maui fires

    Maui continues to see fewer visitors as it recovers from the fires that killed 100 people and damaged or destroyed more than 2,000 buildings. More than 175,000 people visited the island in January ...

  21. Oahu Forum, Travel Discussion for Oahu, HI

    Beyond destination forums. Travel forums for Oahu. Discuss Oahu travel with Tripadvisor travelers.

  22. Hawaii Considers a New Fee for Vacationers

    Hawaii, which hosted more than 9.5 million last year, is the latest to consider a tourist fee that leaders say will pay to protect beaches and prevent wildfires. ... director of operations for ...

  23. 5 Ways To Fly On A Private Jet To Hawaii

    The Aloha state is a bucket list item for many travelers. While Hawaii boasts a large contingent of commercial options, there are ways to travel to see the beautiful Hawaiian Islands via business jet.

  24. Honolulu Forum, Travel Discussion for Honolulu, Oahu

    11,490 forum posts. dusty56438. 31,729 forum posts. Jet83. 32,812 forum posts. scorchestra. 4,853 forum posts. Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions.

  25. This Small Town In Hawaii Is The Cheapest Place To Retire If You Want

    If you're looking for a great place to retire and buy a home away from the hustle and bustle of Hawaii, check out Kualapuu . ... Things To Do & Travel Guides 10 Oldest National Parks In The US Feb 17, 2024. 7 National Parks Within Driving Distance Of New York City Feb 17, 2024 ...

  26. Hawaii tourist warns against illegal hikes after 1,000-foot fall

    A California tourist who fell 1,000 feet on a dangerous off-limits hike on Oahu in December is sharing his story, according to a press release from the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural ...

  27. Tourist dies after boogie boarding accident: Hawaii cops

    The Colorado man hit his head on a rock, Hawaii police said. ... Accused thieves travel to Florida to steal $90,000 in items at self-checkout, cops say March 04, 2024 3:01 PM

  28. Kauai Forum, Travel Discussion for Kauai, HI

    pzp. 28,587 forum posts. scincalifornia. 12,478 forum posts. Members who are extremely knowledgeable about this destination and answer travellers' questions frequently.

  29. Maui Forum, Travel Discussion for Maui, Hawaii

    Unique Activities for folks who have been many time. Emergency Info Sites & Links, Maui, August 2023. getaways. 3,004 forum posts. Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. See all ». Travel forums for Maui. Discuss Maui travel with Tripadvisor travelers.