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Hawaii Visitors by Island 2022

If it's Hawaii tourism data you're looking for, then you're in the right place. We'll cover the latest tourism trends (within the last 1-3 years) on the Hawaiian islands and provide a series of graphics and summarized data to give you a good idea of what's happening by the numbers.

The adjacent graph shows the  Total ARRIVAL Data in 2022  to each island (including multi-destination/island arrivals). You can also view our historical 2018 data graph ,  2016 data graph , and  2006 data graph  for comparison. A pie chart is not truly the best format to display the visitor totals for the various islands as the number of visitors shown in the chart is greater than the true total, as many visitors go to more than one island. However, for our purposes, it should give you an idea of how many visitors (percentage-wise) are arriving/visiting each island. Just keep in mind the actual arrival numbers are "inflated" a bit. A more accurate way to look at this is 'Visitor Days,' per island, but these percentages seen here provide an accurate overview of each island's visitation.

Latest DBEDT Tourism Updates

Department of business, economic development and tourism - monthly summary.

December 2023 Visitation & Spending

December 2023 Update

In December 2023, Hawaii marked the fifth consecutive month with declining visitor expenditures, experiencing a slight dip in both visitor arrivals (860,831 visitors, -1.3%) and spending ($1.96 billion, -1.2%) compared to December 2022. Despite this, the overall visitor spending for 2023 showed an increase from the previous year.

Visitor Arrivals and Spending : December 2023’s visitor count represented a 90.4% recovery from pre-pandemic levels in December 2019. The majority of visitors arrived by air service from the U.S. West and East, with a notable increase in arrivals by sea.

• U.S. West and East : Visitors from these regions showed a decrease in arrivals and spending compared to the previous year, but an increase from 2019.
• Japan and Canada : There was a significant increase in visitors from Japan compared to 2022, though numbers were still lower than in 2019. Canadian visitor numbers decreased from both 2022 and 2019.

Island-Specific Numbers :

    •     Oahu : Received 514,345 visitors with $885.1 million spent.     •     Maui : 196,402 visitors marked the highest number in five months post-wildfires, with $464.4 million spent.     •     Kauai : Saw 120,290 visitors, with spending reaching $266.0 million.     •     Hawaii Island : Welcomed 163,133 visitors and saw $309.5 million in spending.

The year 2023 concluded with an increase in total visitor spending to $20.78 billion, and total arrivals rose by 4.4% from 2022.

Official Press Release

November 2023 Visitation & Spending

November 2023 Update

Visitor Arrivals and Spending : In November 2023, Hawaii experienced a slight increase in visitor arrivals but continued to see a decrease in spending compared to the previous year. A total of 731,233 visitors represented a modest 0.3 percent increase over November 2022, yet spending decreased to $1.53 billion, down 2.4 percent from the previous year.

Source of Visitors : The majority of visitors came by air service, mainly from the U.S. West and East. There was a small increase in visitors from Canada, and a significant surge from Japan compared to 2022, though numbers remained much lower than in 2019.

Key details from the Island in November 2023 :

    •     Oahu saw a rise in visitors to 440,049 but a drop in spending to $652.9 million.     •     Maui had 161,522 visitors, recovering from wildfire impacts, with spending at $375.5 million.     •     Kauai hosted 106,907 visitors, with spending increasing to $212.7 million.     •     Hawaii Island welcomed 135,645 visitors with spending reaching $262.7 million.

Overall, there was a year-to-date increase in total visitor spending and arrivals, with $18.82 billion in spending and 8,783,688 arrivals, indicating growth from 2022.

October 2023 Visitation & Spending

October 2023 Update

In October 2023, Hawaii continued to see a decline in both visitor arrivals and spending compared to 2022, marking the third consecutive month of downturn following the Lahaina wildfires.

Visitor Arrivals and Spending : October 2023 saw 734,582 visitors, a 3.2% decrease from October 2022, but a 92.3% recovery compared to pre-pandemic October 2019. Total visitor spending was $1.51 billion, down from $1.54 billion in October 2022 but up from $1.33 billion in October 2019​​.

Source of Visitors : The majority of visitors arrived by air service, primarily from the U.S. West and U.S. East. The U.S. West contributed 362,258 visitors, a decrease from 2022 but an increase from 2019. U.S. East saw a decline in arrivals compared to 2022 but an increase from 2019. Visitors from Japan increased significantly from 2022 but were much lower than in 2019. Canadian visitor numbers decreased from both 2022 and 2019​​.

Numbers by Island :

• Oahu : Received 448,096 visitors, a 14.7% increase from October 2022, with spending reaching $673.3 million, slightly up from the previous year​​.
• Maui : After the wildfires, visitation dropped to 132,909, a 42.3% decrease from 2022, and spending fell to $326.2 million, down 25.2% from the previous year​​.
• Kauai : Saw a stable visitor count at 109,337, virtually unchanged from 2022, but spending increased to $233.2 million, a significant rise of 34.1% from the previous year​​.
• Hawaii Island : Had 133,081 visitors, a 6% decrease from October 2022, with spending of $246.1 million, an 8% increase from the prior year​​.

September 2023 Visitation & Spending

September 2023 Update

In September 2023, Hawaii experienced a decrease in both visitor arrivals and spending compared to the same period in 2022, partly due to the aftermath of the Lahaina fires on Maui. The total number of visitors was 651,286, marking a 7.4% decrease from September 2022, yet showing an 88.5% recovery from pre-pandemic levels of September 2019. Total visitor spending was $1.37 billion, a reduction from the $1.52 billion in September 2022 but an increase from September 2019's $1.25 billion.

The majority of visitors arrived by air, predominantly from the U.S. West and East. The U.S. West sent 329,187 visitors, a decrease from 2022 but an increase from 2019. U.S. East saw 153,635 visitors, down from 2022 but up from 2019. Visitors from Japan increased significantly compared to 2022 but were much lower than 2019 numbers. Canadian visitor numbers and spending also decreased compared to 2022 and 2019.

Visitor demographics varied across the islands. Oahu welcomed 433,209 visitors, Maui received 94,221 visitors, significantly impacted by the wildfires, Kauai hosted 115,305 visitors, and Hawaii Island saw 129,444 visitors. Each island exhibited unique trends in visitor arrivals and spending, reflecting diverse attractions and visitor experiences.

August 2023 Visitation & Spending

August 2023 Update

In August 2023, Hawaii's tourism was notably impacted by the Lahaina wildfires, leading to a 7.3% decrease in total visitor arrivals compared to August 2022. This figure represented an 83.0% recovery from the pre-pandemic levels of August 2019. The total number of visitors was 769,163, with a significant decline in arrivals to Maui due to the wildfires. Visitor spending for the month was $1.58 billion, lower than the $1.74 billion spent in August 2022, but still higher than the $1.50 billion from August 2019.

The majority of visitors, 766,023, arrived by air service, mainly from the U.S. West and U.S. East, with an additional 3,140 coming via a single cruise ship. The average length of stay for all visitors was 8.67 days, slightly less than in August 2022. The statewide average daily census was 215,020 visitors.

Visitor arrivals to different islands varied. Oahu saw an increase in visitors, with 507,702 arrivals. Hawaii Island and Kauai also experienced increases in visitor numbers. In contrast, Maui faced a significant drop in visitor arrivals, with only 112,259 visitors, less than half the volume of August 2022, primarily due to the Lahaina wildfires which led to the cancellation of 88 direct transpacific flights to Kahului.

Visitor demographics from different regions showed mixed trends. The U.S. West sent 392,427 visitors, a decrease from both 2022 and 2019. However, their spending, although lower than in 2022, was higher than in 2019. Visitors from the U.S. East also decreased compared to both 2022 and 2019, but their spending increased from 2019 levels. Visitors from Japan increased dramatically from 2022 but were much lower than 2019 figures. Canadian visitor numbers and spending decreased compared to 2022 and 2019.

There were 103,589 visitors from other international markets, including Oceania, Asia, Europe, Latin America, Guam, the Philippines, and the Pacific Islands. This figure was an increase from 2022 but a decrease from 2019.

July 2023 Visitation & Spending

July 2023 Update

In July 2023, Hawaii’s tourism showed a positive trend, with 932,713 visitors marking a 1.5% increase from July 2022 and representing a 93.7% recovery from July 2019. Visitor spending reached $2.05 billion, exceeding the figures from both 2022 and 2019. The majority of visitors, 929,386 in total, arrived by air, primarily from the U.S. West and East. The average length of stay for all visitors was 9.06 days.

From the U.S. West, there were 499,029 visitors, a decrease from 2022 but an increase from 2019, with spending of $972.1 million. Visitors from the U.S. East were comparable to 2022 numbers and higher than in 2019, with spending of $628.4 million. Visitor arrivals from Japan saw a significant increase compared to 2022 but were still lower than 2019 figures, with spending of $83.2 million. Canadian visitors slightly exceeded 2019 levels, with a total spend of $68.2 million.

The visitor count from other international markets, including Oceania, Asia, Europe, and Latin America, was 100,912, showing a modest increase from 2022 but a decrease from 2019. Total trans-Pacific flights servicing the islands were slightly fewer than in 2022 and 2019.

For the first seven months of 2023, total visitor spending amounted to $12.83 billion, showing an increase from both 2022 and 2019. Total arrivals during this period were 5,897,424, higher than in 2022 but lower than in 2019.

Island-specific details reveal that Oahu welcomed 528,585 visitors with a spending of $870.7 million. Maui received 293,681 visitors, with spending of $623.4 million. Kauai had 139,771 visitors and a spend of $264.5 million. Hawaii Island saw 171,957 visitors, with a spending of $263.0 million.

Visitor demographics varied, with a significant portion of U.S. West visitors being repeat visitors, and a majority staying in hotels. The first seven months of 2023 saw 3,110,046 visitors from the U.S. West, spending $6.05 billion. The U.S. East contributed 1,563,393 visitors, spending $4.05 billion. From Japan, there were 267,131 visitors, spending $427.5 million, and from Canada, 284,544 visitors, spending $726.2 million.

These statistics reflect a steady recovery in Hawaii’s tourism industry, with significant contributions from various international markets and a strong showing from U.S. visitors.

The tabular chart shown further below gives the breakdown of visitors in the islands on a month by month basis (color coded per island), based on data from 2019 & 2022 visitor reports.

Visitor Days & Visitor Expenditures

In considering the "health" of the tourism market, one must also put emphasis on the two factors that are the most important: "visitor days" and "visitor expenditures." 

Mahalo for the tip by 'amberloo' at TripAdvisor. In her words, " If there are more visitor days and more money being spent annually over the long-term, the industry is healthy regardless of any other factors; such as mere arrival totals. The goal of many government planners is to increase "days" and "spending" while limiting (or even decreasing) arrival counts. "

Why limit arrival counts you might ask? One has to consider tourism "capacities" of the islands and how that will affect future trends. Maui and O'ahu likely reached their carrying capacity (for visitors) years ago, thus have few remaining competitive development opportunities and will not have the statistical fluctuations or upside growth potentials seen on Kaua'i. In fact, due to growth in recent years, Kaua'i has now about reached its own carrying capacity pending completion of on-going development.

Estimated Hawaii Visitor Arrivals by Month 2019 & 2022

Individual Hawaiian Island Data

These statistics are "arrival" data - meaning visitors who arrived in the islands (either from the mainland US, abroad, or from another island).

When viewing these statistics, we encourage visitors to keep the geographic size of the islands in mind. For example, the Big Island and Kauai have very similar trends in arrivals. However, the Big Island is significantly larger geographically speaking than Kauai (in fact, it is larger than all of the other islands combined) so these visitor numbers alone cannot tell the complete story. Kauai and the Big Island may very well have the exact same number of visitors any given month, but the size of the island will also determine how "crowded" it feels.

Big Island of Hawaii Visitor Data

The largest in the chain typically ranges between 100,000-175,000 arrivals each month. Excluding the summer "hump" felt through all the islands, the number of arrivals fluctuates much less than some other islands in the chain, so visitation is usually about the same in Hawai'i. The events we noted on the  best time to travel to Hawaii  page, that are held each spring and fall, can increase visitor ratios on the island. The volcanic eruption that began in May 2018 is also to have likely affected arrival numbers for this period.

Maui Visitor Data

The second largest island in the chain typically ranges between 210,000-300,000 arrivals each month. The summer "hump" is by far the largest period of arrivals, but there are also significant spikes at other times during the year, most notably around the Christmas holidays.

Kauai Visitor Data

The fourth largest island in the chain typically ranges between 100,000-140,000 visitors each month. Kauai, in general, is a much quieter island (arrival wise) when compared to the likes of the other islands in the chain. But that may be due to its size and "theme" (all things green). The summer "hump" is the only really busy time on the island, though it's not as distinct as the "hump" Maui and Oahu experience. The 2018 winter and spring storms and subsequent closures on Kauai likely affected visitor arrivals after this period.

Oahu Visitor Data

The third largest island in the chain typically ranges between 450,000-570,000 visitors each month. As you can quickly see, that number quickly dwarfs the other islands arrival data. Oahu is widely popular with visitors abroad, and given that 75% of the state's population lives on this single island, the arrival data can skew accordingly.

Typical Hawaii Visitor Timeline

Typical Visitor Planning Timeline

More Information:

Hawaii Weathe r page or Selecting a Hawaiian island to visit

If you want even more detailed tourism specifications, please visit the Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism .

Molokai & Lanai Visitor Data

These two islands only make up slightly more than 1% of all visitor arrivals combined. If you're heading to either of these two islands and are curious about this data, we suggest you look at the detailed statistics provided on the  Hawaii Tourism Authority  website.

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Article Published/Updated: 03-18-2024

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Historical Visitor Statistics

Jump to: Final Monthly Visitor Statistics Historical Island Data Historical Visitor Expenditures Historical Visitors By U.S. Regions Historical Visitors By MMA Historical Visitor Statistics

Final Monthly Visitor Statistics

2022 Monthly Visitor Statistics

2021 Monthly Visitor Statistics

2020 Monthly Visitor Statistics

2019 Monthly Visitor Statistics

2018 Monthly Visitor Statistics

2017 Monthly Visitor Statistics

2016 Monthly Visitor Statistics

2015 Monthly Visitor Statistics

2014 Monthly Visitor Statistics

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Historical Island Data

Current Island Highlights are located in 'Visitor Highlights' Current Monthly Visitor Statistics are located in 'Visitor Highlights'

Arrivals by island 1990 through 2022

Historical Visitor Expenditures

Current Visitor Expenditures is located in 'Visitor Highlights'

Visitor expenditures 2001 through 2022

Historical Visitors By U.S. Regions

Current Visitor Arrivals by U.S. Regions is located in 'Visitor Highlights'

Arrivals by U.S. regions 1988 through 2022

Historical Visitors By MMA

Current Visitor Arrivals by MMA is located in 'Visitor Highlights'

Arrivals by MMA 1990 through 2022

All Historical Data in one file

Historical Visitors Through 2022

• Topics ›
• Domestic tourism in the U.S. ›

U.S. Tourists Outnumber Hawaiians 5 To 1

Tourism can be a valuable source of income for countries, regions and cities, but a high influx of visitors can cause problems with energy supply, infrastructure and general cost of living for the native inhabitants of said areas. Hawaii, for example, is one of the most popular tourist destinations for travelers from the United States and Japan and many of its inhabitants have long been critical of the islands' booming tourism industry. According to data from the Hawaii Tourism Authority and the U.S. Census Bureau, the annual number of tourists from the U.S. alone is five times higher than the population of the tiny island group.

As our chart illustrates, the number of U.S. travelers visiting islands like Hawai'i, O'ahu or Maui has been rising continuously since 2014, crossing the 7-million mark for the first time in 2022. Even in the first year of the coronavirus pandemic, roughly two million U.S. Americans flocked to the island state, which was annexed by the United States in 1898 against staunch resistance by the native population.

Hawaii has also been a popular holiday destination for the Japanese for decades, even though tourist influx from the country is only slowly picking up steam again since 2020. The relationship between Hawaii and Japan is a fraught one though: On December 7, 1941, Japan's air force attacked Pearl Harbor on O'ahu , effectively prompting U.S. involvement in World War II.

In 2019, the overall number of visitors to Hawaii stood above the 10-million threshold, a development cut short by Covid-19. Between January and June 2023, around five million people visited the islands for an average duration of nine nights, spending $10.7 billion in the process. Roughly $8.5 billion of the total amount was spent by the 3.9 million visitors from the United States.

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This chart shows the countries with the most visitors to Hawaii per year and the population of Hawaii.

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How Many People Visit Hawaii Each Year- Tourism Statistics

Hawaii is a beautiful place in the Pacific Ocean that many people know about. It has amazing nature, nice beaches, and a cool culture, which is why millions of people from all over the world come here to see volcanoes, relax on the beaches, and enjoy Hawaiian traditions.

But have you ever wondered about how many people actually come to Hawaii? If you have, you’re at the right place! In this article, we are going to talk about the numbers that can show us how much people like this place. 

Hawaii – Why Is It Famous?

Hawaii is famous because it’s incredibly beautiful. This place is located in the ocean, surrounded by water. The nature there is something special – you’ll see stunning beaches with white sand and clear blue water that make people feel happy. The volcanoes, some of them even active, add to the uniqueness. Hawaii is also known for hula dancing and big parties called luaus. These luaus have dancing and lots of yummy food. The culture in Hawaii is different from other places, making it interesting. You might think of surfers riding big waves or people wearing flower necklaces when you think of Hawaii. This place is shown in movies and TV shows a lot, making it even more famous. Many people want to go to Hawaii for relaxation and fun.

Annual Visitor Numbers For Hawaii 

In the year 2021, around 6,777,760 people decided to check out Hawaii. In that year, tourists hopped on airplanes because cruise ships weren’t doing their thing that year due to COVID restrictions. If we look back at 2020, 2,678,073 people flew in, and before March 2020, 30,185 people arrived on cruise ships until everything stopped because of a “No Sail” rule. It is also worth noting that these tourists brought a lot to Hawaii. 

How Much Money Do People Spend In Hawaii? 

According to the 2021 annual report for Hawaii Tourism Statistics these visitors didn’t just hang out, they spent a whopping $13.15 billion exploring Hawaii. It’s a reminder of how much visitors matter to Hawaii’s money and the overall economy.

• How Many People Visit Hawaii Each Year?

Annually, Hawaii welcomes varying numbers of visitors. In the year 2021, approximately 6 million individuals chose to explore this American state. The annual figures tend to fluctuate, but the observed count in 2021 notably reached this considerable figure.

Famous Activities And Attractions In Hawaii 

Hawaii is full of exciting things to do and beautiful places to see. People love to visit because there are many fun activities and famous attractions . Let’s take a look at some of them: 

Hawaii is famous for its stunning beaches . Tourists enjoy swimming, building sandcastles, and just relaxing by the ocean. Waikiki Beach on Oahu and Kaanapali Beach on Maui are popular spots. Some beaches even have big waves for surfing competitions, which you can enjoy as well! 

Volcano Adventure

One really special thing in Hawaii is the volcanoes. People can visit the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island. They can see real volcanoes and even watch lava flow into the ocean. It’s an amazing sight you don’t want to miss. 

Hiking And Nature

Hawaii has beautiful nature with green mountains and waterfalls. Tourists love to go hiking to see these natural wonders up close. The Diamond Head hike in Oahu and the Pipiwai Trail in Maui are famous hikes.

Luau Celebrations

Hawaiian culture is unique, and luaus are a big part of it. These are big parties with Hawaiian music, dancing, and delicious food. People wear flower necklaces and enjoy traditional dishes like poi and kalua pig.

Snorkeling And Scuba Diving

The ocean around Hawaii is full of colorful fish and coral reefs. Tourists can go snorkeling or scuba diving to see this underwater world. Hanauma Bay on Oahu and Molokini Crater near Maui are famous spots.

Pearl Harbor History

Pearl Harbor is a historic place in Oahu. It’s where Japan attacked, and killed thousands of innocent people and army personnel. It’s a big event that happened during World War II. People can visit the USS Arizona Memorial and learn about the past.

Whale Watching

From December to April, humpback whales visit Hawaii. The best part? Tourists can go on boat tours to watch these huge and graceful creatures swim and play in the ocean. Please keep in mind you can watch them from afar only. 

Polynesian Cultural Center

This is a place where visitors can learn about different Polynesian cultures . There are shows, demonstrations, and traditional games. It’s a great way to understand more about Hawaii’s heritage.

Shopping And Food

Hawaii has markets and shops where tourists can buy souvenirs and local products. Also, there’s a variety of tasty food to try, like fresh pineapple at the Dole Plantation, shave ice, and plate lunches.

Sunset Views

And finally, the last one on our list – watching the sunset in Hawaii, which is magical. People gather on the beach to see the sky change colors over the ocean. It’s a peaceful and beautiful experience.

Hawaii has a lot to offer in terms of famous activities and attractions. From its splendid beaches to breathtaking volcanoes, the islands provide a diverse range of experiences for visitors. Whether it’s enjoying a traditional luau, exploring the underwater world, or taking in the rich history and culture, Hawaii is a destination that captivates and delights.

• When’s The Best Time To Visit Hawaii?

Deciding when to visit Hawaii depends on what works best for your budget and plans . If you’re traveling solo and looking to save money, the off-season might be your go-to choice. During this time, there are fewer tourists, and you can find better deals on accommodations and activities.

On the other hand, if you’re all about fun activities and want to join in on vibrant festivals, certain months are more suitable. For instance, if you’re a fan of hula and Polynesian culture, coming in April for the Merrie Monarch Festival on the Big Island would be fantastic. Or, if you’re into surfing, the winter months bring big waves, making it ideal for catching some incredible rides.

Keep in mind that Hawaii’s weather is pretty consistent throughout the year, so you’ll have pleasant temperatures no matter when you go. So, whether you’re seeking solitude during the off-peak times or eager to immerse yourself in the excitement of festivals, Hawaii offers something special for every type of traveler .

• Vacation Rental Properties In Hawaii Throughout The Year

Renting vacation properties in Hawaii is possible year-round through Hawaiian Beach Rentals. Our listings include a variety of options such as beachfront properties, condos, villas, and luxurious homes. Rest assured, we provide competitive rates regardless of the time you explore our offerings. Whether you seek a cozy beachfront retreat or an upscale villa, Hawaiian Beach Rentals ensures an ideal choice for your stay.

Final Thoughts – Hawaii Tourism Statistics

With more than 6 million people visiting Hawaii every year, you might want to start planning your own trip. If you’re curious about the beautiful beaches, interesting culture, and exciting things to do, you can scroll through our blog section for some time and think about booking your vacation. Hawaii is waiting for you to explore and have a great time, just like all those other visitors. So, get ready to make your own special memories in Hawaii’s wonderful paradise! Also, if you are looking for rental properties, you can take a look at our property listings, we can assure you, they’re amazing and affordable!

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Table of contents

• Hawaii - Why Is It Famous?
• Annual Visitor Numbers For Hawaii
• How Much Money Do People Spend In Hawaii?
• Famous Activities And Attractions In Hawaii
• Final Thoughts - Hawaii Tourism Statistics

• General Hawaii

Hawaii visitor data report – visitor numbers, hotel rates, visitor spending

• 2 minute read
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Have you ever wondered how many people go to Hawaii? How much they spend? Where do they go? Well, the latest report from the Hawaii Tourism Authority covers all those questions — in all 195 data-heavy pages. We’ve sifted through the data to find the most interesting nuggets that a visitor would like to know.

A record-setting 9,888,845 people visited Hawaii in 2018 by air or by cruise ship. Of that total, the vast majority, 9,761,448, arrived by air.

Where do all these people go? Here’s the break down of which islands they visited:

• Oahu – 5,862,358 people
• Maui – 2,914,912 people
• Hawaii Island – 1,706,218 people
• Kauai – 1,389,300 people
• Lanai – 75,010 people
• Molokai – 58,885 people

Note: Some people visit more than one island.

Next, let’s look at when visitors go to Hawaii. We created the following chart to help illustrate when are the busiest and quietest times to visit.

So, March, June, July, August, and December are the most occupied months of the year for Hawaii per the 2018 data. From our previous analysis , March is busiest around spring break and/or Easter holiday. June, July, and August are busy due to summer family vacations. December is busy due to Christmas and New Year’s Eve holidays.

How much do visitors spend in Hawaii? The estimated total for 2018 was another new high at $17.64 billion. Wow! This figure includes the cost for lodging, food and beverage, shopping, transportation (in the islands only, not to and from the islands), entertainment and recreation. The average daily spend per person was $199.

Lodging is the biggest visitor expenditure in Hawaii , which comprised 42.2 percent of total visitor spending. Most people stay in hotels. So, let’s look at the average hotel rate per month to find the most and least expensive months to visit Hawaii.

Per the data, April, May, September, October, November, and December are the least expensive months to visit Hawaii. Pricewise, those are some of the best times for a Hawaii vacation . The average daily rate is very high in December due to the popularity of Hawaii for the holidays .

Which islands are the most expensive to visit? There’s a chart for that, too.

Lanai is by far the most expensive island to visit, followed by Maui. Molokai and Hawaii Island are the least expensive.

Well, that concludes our look at Hawaii visitor statistics. Did anything surprise you?

Sheila Beal

Sheila Beal is the founder and editor of Go Visit Hawaii. You can connect with Sheila Beal on Twitter , Go Visit Hawaii on Facebook , or Instagram .

Thank you for your information. I was there for a week at the Monasurfrider. I too thought that Ohua was the big island. They had to bring me back kicking and screaming, I never wanted to leave. If living prices were not so untouchable would be back with bells on. From the staff that greeted our cars ,the people who served our meals. You could NEVER ask for any better service. Really their attitude showed more than a job.

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What to do in Hawaii? Locals weigh in on if these popular spots are worth the hype

There’s one road going east from Honolulu to popular Oahu beaches like Makapuu and Waimanalo, and on a sunny Saturday morning between Christmas and New Year’s, it was jam-packed. 

One particular slowdown happens right before Hanauma Bay. The entrance to the popular snorkeling spot is blocked with a sign that says the parking lot is full. Workers turn the cars of hopeful snorkelers around and people are walking up the hill in the hot sun with their beach chairs strapped to their backs after parking in the nearby neighborhood. 

Although the holiday week drew more crowds than typical, it’s not an unusual sight for the well-known tourist attraction. 

Hanauma Bay continues to top Hawaii travel activity lists for its calm waters and easily spotted marine life, like sea turtles and tropical fish. But for some travelers, it can seem like a headache to wake up early before the parking lot is full, often by 9 a.m. 

Even past the bay, the scenic road’s multiple lookout points are overflowing with rental cars and people snapping photos. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

For most, a Hawaiian vacation itinerary feels incomplete without a few must-dos: Witness the islands’ natural beauty; go to a luau; snorkel with marine life; and, obviously, soak up the sun at the beach as much as possible. 

Unfortunately, there’s a big chance travelers won’t even experience the real Hawaii on their trip if they do this. 

“People love Hawaii, but they just don’t know Hawaii,” Evan Mokuahi Hayes, a Native Hawaiian who owns Hoomau Oahu Tours, which seeks to give visitors deeper and more history-driven tours of Oahu, told USA TODAY. “They love this place, but they don’t know our history.”

In Spring 2023, 67% of 1,960 Hawaii residents agreed an “authentic presentation of Hawaiian language and culture is important.” Although the industry is heading in that direction, it’s still challenging for visitors to distinguish what's overrated and just seeking out tourist dollars, and what’s actually going to teach them more about Hawaiian history and culture. 

While travelers can research what to do, sometimes inside knowledge is the right guide. USA TODAY spoke with Native Hawaiians who work in the tourism industry on whether or not the most popular tourist attractions in the island chain are worth the hype and how to get the most out of their Hawaiian visit. 

1. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park 

Definitely go for its sacred history and cultural significance.

As one of the most popular national parks in the U.S., Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is worth facing crowds for – and not just for marveling at the dramatic, ever-changing landscape (or the chance to see fiery lava.) 

“It’s a sacred treasure trove of history, culture and adventure, and it’s the place I go to pay homage to Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of fire and volcanoes,” Kaiulani Blankenfeld, Director of Hawaiian Culture at Hawaii Island’s Fairmont Orchid, told USA TODAY.

For Hawaiians, the over 355,000-acre park is home to Pele, making it an incredibly sacred place, from the lava fields themselves to high-elevation forests. 

The Oahu-born and raised kumu hula (hula master teacher) has danced and chanted at Halemaumau, located inside Kilauea’s caldera, and “felt my thoughts, spirit and body shift into another realm.” Travelers shouldn’t rush their visit; they should take it all in and be respectful of any signage. 

2. Diamond Head State Monument

Go for the sacred history, but there are other hikes with great views too. 

Diamond Head, or Leahi as it is known in Hawaiian, is arguably the most iconic Honolulu tourist attraction. The 0.8-mile-long hike up to the top of the crater is well-maintained, and the top offers a panoramic view of the southern shoreline. Before the park’s reservation system in May 2022 ($5 per person over 5 years old to enter and $10 per car), it wasn’t unusual to be hiking the popular trail in a slow, single-file line. 

Even now, it’s not exactly the most tranquil hike on the island.

Travelers who do go, shouldn’t just admire the views but research how sacred the 300,000-year-old crater is to Hawaiians, Hayes said, which Hoomau focuses on during its tours. Before its use as a military bunk, it was a place of worship to Native Hawaiians, and where Maui – who people may know from Disney’s “Moana” – caught the sun. 

For fewer crowds, Blankenfeld recommends the Makapuu Point Lighthouse Trail on the island's eastern side. “It offers stunning views of Oahu's southeastern coastline, including Koko Head and Koko Crater.” It’s free and also a great place to spot humpback whales during winter.

3. Hanauma Bay

Worth making a reservation for a safe snorkeling experience.

Tucked into a volcanic cove on Oahu so the waters are always calm, Hanauma Bay has been the island’s most popular snorkeling destination for decades. During the pandemic, the bay closed so marine life could rest from human traffic and restore itself. After a few months, the water was clearer, and more fish and coral growth was recorded. 

Although nonresidents have to book and pay for a timeslot ($25 per person plus service fees and $3 per car) to enter, Hayes said it’s still the best place for tourists to snorkel safely, especially for those with kids (who, if 12 and under are free to enter.)

“I think Hanauma Bay is perfectly set up for tourists,” he said. “They have people there who close the parking lot down, and there’s restrooms and trash cans.” 

He added that tourists who aren’t familiar with the ocean can often be reckless and jump in the water anywhere without realizing the almighty power of tides, swells and currents, which can end dangerously . 

To avoid the hectic parking situation, there’s a shuttle service to and from Waikiki for $49 per person, which covers snorkel gear but not the entrance fee. 

4. Polynesian Cultural Center

Entertaining and informative, but expensive and far from Honolulu . 

Located in the laidback Laie town on Oahu’s North Shore, the Polynesian Cultural Center is considered a Polynesian Disneyland for its six immersive villages representing the island cultures of Hawaii, Fiji, Aotearoa (New Zealand), Samoa, Tahiti and Tonga. 

While Hayes attests to PCC’s ability to show people about Polynesia, it’s a long drive from Honolulu and will cost at least $89.95 and up to $289.95 per person , depending on whether you want to experience the two shows. 

A much cheaper and closer alternative is Bishop Museum ($28.95 per adult, cheaper for seniors and kids), which has “the largest collection of Hawaiian and Pacific cultural artifacts and natural history specimens in the world.” There’s also a Planetarium for people to learn more about the ancient navigational practice of wayfinding.

5. Iolani Palace

Definitely go, and keep exploring downtown Honolulu.

As the only official royal residence in the nation, ‘Iolani Palace is a must-do for immersing visitors in the late 1800s. “‘Iolani Palace is a great place to visit and learn the history of the Hawaiian Monarch and especially about King Kalakaua, who was really a monarch ahead of his time,” Blankenfeld said. They’ll also be educated on the tragic overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom, a necessity when learning about Hawaiian history. 

Hayes recommends people go beyond the palace and visit other parts of downtown Honolulu with historical significance, all within walking distance of each other.

A few minutes away is Kawaiaha’o Church, the oldest church on Oahu, built in 1820 where many ali’i , or Hawaiian royalty spent their time. The church has a free self-guided audio tour that people can follow by scanning QR codes. View the royal pews, Princess Kai‘iulani’s bench and plantings and King Lunalilo’s tomb. 

Hayes also suggests visitors stop by the nearby Hawaiian Mission Houses ($20 per person for a guided tour, $10 for a self-guided tour) to learn more about the massive impact Christian missionaries had on Hawaii and see Hawaii’s oldest Western-style house. 

6. Road to Hana

Overhyped and there are better ways to experience Hawaii’s natural beauty.

The 52-mile-long Road to Hana drive is Maui’s most iconic activity for its stunning natural wonders. Think rainforests, waterfalls and sea cliffs. If travelers don’t leave first thing in the morning, they’ll face traffic jams and crowded waterfalls, taking away from the natural escape they were looking for. Many tourists also park their cars illegally and residents trying to commute have complained of the chaos. 

A better way for people to immerse themselves in Hawaii’s natural environments that's also more unique is by volunteering with a nonprofit like Hawaii Land Trust (they also offer beach cleanups and other types of volunteer days) and Maui Cultural Lands to help care for the land by replanting native trees. Technically, you could do this on any island, and you’ll get a deeper understanding of Hawaii’s forests. 

Usually a tourist trap, but you should still try to experience hula. 

A quintessential Hawaiian vacation experience is going to a luau. With countless luaus across the state, it’s tough for people to know they’re not wasting their money on something made just for tourists.

Unfortunately, this can be a tricky one to navigate. “It’s harder to define authenticity in a luau today because it’s been so touristy it’s essentially like every show is almost the same everywhere,” Hayes said. “Some things you look out for are really shiny, shimmery skirts, really bright colors, all those things are a dead giveaway.” 

Hayes said the Ali‘i Lu‘au ‘Onipa‘a , which shares the last Hawaiian monarch Queen Lili‘uokalani’s story, and the following “HA: Breath of Life” show at PCC are solid choices. “Hands down, that’s the best dinner show; the storyline is absolutely amazing and you’re still getting all of the cultures,” he said. “You’re sitting in an amphitheater, so the seats are better and the people are actually from Tahiti or Tonga or Samoa.”

If your hotel hosts a luau experience, which tends to be pricey, try to meet with the cultural director beforehand and learn more about what’s behind their specific show. 

To experience the most authentic hula, seek out a hula competition . Contestants practice a song or two for months on end, striving to represent the art form in their highest regard. This is where dancers, musicians and halau (hula schools) are putting their best foot forward, literally. 

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