Of the 50 states, Hawaii probably appears the most on a traveler’s bucket list. With its stunning natural beauty, colorful culture, and amazing history, Hawaii may be beckoning you right now. Here are some tips on what to see and how to save some money when planning your trip.
Consider flying during Hawaii’s low seasons for cheaper tickets: the spring (mid-April until June) and the fall (September through the first half of December). The most expensive airfare typically starts around mid-December because of the holiday rush. And like other air travel, booking through the middle of the week usually has lower rates than weekends.
Whenever you travel, the temperature in Hawaii has a good chance of being mild—temperatures average 78 degrees in the winter and 85 degrees in the summer.
There are many budget-friendly things to do and see in Hawaii, and many of the outdoor options are free. The military is a big part of Hawaii’s economy, so be on the lookout for military discounts, too.
Oahu is Hawaii’s most popular island and has everything you want from city life to world-class surfing. When in Oahu, consider staying at IHG® Army Hotels on Tripler Army Medical Center /Fort Shafter. There are plenty of amenities on-post including a golf course and an outdoor recreation center. Check out this list of what Oahu and some of the other islands have to offer:
OAHU
Pearl Harbor
Tour the memorial site of the USS Arizona and learn about the attack on December 7, 1941 that that led to America’s involvement in World War II. The memorial is one of the busiest sites in Hawaii, so consider making a reservation.
Pearl Harbor Memorial
Honolulu
With high-rise hotels and millions of residents, Hawaii’s bustling capital is called the “Manhattan of the Pacific.” Check out the Polynesian Cultural Center, Iolani Palace, and the Ala Moana Center, the largest open-air shopping mall in the world. And of course, visit world-famous Waikiki Beach and the majestic Diamond Head summit.
North Shore
Oahu’s North Shore has long been a surfer’s paradise. It’s also an amazing area for kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling. There are several beaches to choose from and many of the beaches are free.
MAUI
Venture to the summit of Haleakala, a massive volcano with breathtaking views. Book a tour to see the sunrise or marvel at the night sky. The volcano’s elevation and low light pollution will have you seeing the Milky Way like never before. Be sure to dress warmly. With an elevation of more than 10,000 feet, the weather gets pretty chilly.
HAWAII AKA “THE BIG ISLAND”
Take in the surreal landscapes of lava at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Inside the park are two of the world's most active volcanoes - Kīlauea and Mauna Loa.
There are plenty of areas to hike, or you can tour the park by car.
KAUAI
Hawaii’s “garden island” might be the most beautiful—and that’s saying something. Rainforests, rivers, and waterfalls are just part of its natural charm. Be sure to get a photo of the Spouting Horn blowhole, one of the Kauai’s most photographed sites.
The ocean enters into a lava tube which then releases a spout of water as high as 50 feet.
If you’d like to experience the island through the air, book a ziplining tour through the island’s lush valleys. Prices for ziplining are more expensive than other activities, but the memories and the adrenaline rush might be worth it.
Whether you’re looking for activities or just want to relax, Hawaii has it all. And with a bit of research and planning, you could soon be saying ‘Aloha” to the trip of your dreams.
