How to do hawaii in a week?

We’ve put together a one week in Hawaii itinerary for first-timers, covering a bunch of ideas for what to do in Hawaii for a week, including fun family activities that you could choose from to craft your perfect 7 days in Oahu.

This itinerary includes popular activities grouped by certain regions of the island, including:

Set sail in style with a dinner cruise on the sleek Makani Catamaran. This excursion can be both romantic and relaxing, so it offers a lot of flexibility to families and couples alike. It's also sure to provide excellent photo opportunities, as you're treated to brilliant sunsets against the peaceful Pacific. Throw in a free drink, and the decision to hop aboard this dinner sail is a no-brainer.

Getting In: Oahu Sunset Dinner Cruise tickets are available as a premium option on 3-, 5-, and 7-Day Go Oahu pass.

Or, if you'd prefer to enjoy the vivid tropical waters during the day, the Makani Catamaran offers other cruise options, too. This leisurely two-hour cruise is the epitome of tropical luxury. Relax on a gorgeous catamaran vessel, keeping one eye out for sea life like dolphins, sea turtles, and even whales (in season). The boat even includes a full bar which you must stop by to really make the most of this cruise.

Getting In: Makani Catamaran Sail tickets are included with the Go Oahu pass.

Hike to the top of the famed Diamond Head volcanic crater. The hike is moderate but very approachable even for newbie hikers, so don't worry about being over your head in the hiking game. Not only does the journey offer unbeatable views of the coastline, but the sweeping panoramic vistas of the island you’ll get from the top are out of this world. And don’t worry – this volcano has been dormant for 150,000 years! Bonus: You'll get complimentary hotel pickup from Waikiki hotels. It makes it easy to avoid notoriously bad Oahu traffic.

Getting In: Diamond Head Hike Shuttle tickets are included with the Go Oahu pass.

If you’re looking for an ideal Hawaiian beach destination, Waikiki Beach is it. It's conveniently located to a number of popular hotels, as well as plenty of shopping and dining options for when you need a break from beaching. Whether you want to relax and sunbathe, play a little bit of beach volleyball, or maybe even take a dip into the water for a bit of snorkeling, there is no end of options for you to explore at this popular spot.

Getting In: Snorkel gear rentals are included with the Go Oahu pass.

Animal lovers will find much to love about the Honolulu Zoo. Nestled in Kapiolani Park, this gorgeous zoo is home to over 900 animals and acres of luxurious gardens. There’s even a petting zoo for their younger guests, making a visit here a great family option. Depending on when you visit, you may also be able to take advantage of their top-notch educational programs.

Getting In: The Honolulu Zoo is separately ticketed and is not included with the Go Oahu pass. For more information about this attraction and to purchase tickets, visit the attraction website.

Take a tour of the Battleship Missouri for a chance to roam one of the most storied battleships in history. Having served in multiple wars and stood as the site for the official end of World War II, “Mighty Mo” is one heck of a ship. It’s also recently been refurbished, so you’ll get a sense of what the ship was like in her glory days.

Getting In: Battleship Missouri Memorial tickets are included with the Go Oahu pass.

As the most-visited site in all of Hawaii, the USS Arizona Memorial should be at the top of your list. Take a self-guided audio tour of the memorial and learn all about the tragic attack of December 7, 1941 and its aftermath. It’s both poignant and informative and is an invaluable destination for those interested in American history.  This is also part of the WWII Valor in the Pacific National Monument, so a visit here is a must for those of you with bucket list aspirations of visiting as many National Parks as possible.

Getting In: USS Arizona Memorial Narrated Tour tickets are included with the Go Oahu pass.

Another one for the history buffs, the USS Bowfin is one of the most successful attack submarines in United States military history (just consider its nickname – “The Pearl Harbor Avenger”). You'll get to roam the vessel itself and see what life was like for sailors who served aboard her during combat. Explore the museum, take a self-guided audio tour, and peruse a selection of submarine artifacts.

Getting In: USS Bowfin Submarine Tour tickets are included with the Go Oahu pass.

This unique museum showcases vintage aircraft and artifacts in the totally original setting of authentic WWII hangars. If the amazing sight of real WWII-era aircraft weren’t enough, interactive exhibits and state-of-the-art displays make for an immersive educational experience.

Getting In: Pacific Aviation Museum tickets are included with the Go Oahu pass.

It’s hard to narrow down the list of centrally located golf courses in Oahu, but there are plenty of great options to choose from. Kapolei Golf Course, Barbers Point Golf Course, and Hawaii Prince Golf Club are just a few of the many available golf attractions in this part of Oahu. You’d be hard pressed to find golf courses more beautiful than these in Hawaii! Want to improve your golf game? Then read up on these putting tips on how to putt better.

Getting In: Admission to local golf courses is separately ticketed and is not included with the Go Oahu pass. For more information about individual courses and to purchase admission, please visit your selected golf course website.

Have you always wanted to see a playful dolphin up close? Then the unique dolphin encounter at Sea Life Park is right up your alley. Interact with these friendly critters and watch them perform amazing tricks and dances just for you. This is the perfect family attraction.  Getting In: The Dolphin Encounter by Sea Life Park tickets are available as a premium option on 3-, 5-, and 7-Day Go Oahu pass.

Another great destination for animal lovers in Hawaii is Sea Life Park. This delightful park features a wide variety of sea creatures, from dolphins and sea lions to dozens of local tropical fish. Encounter fascinating new creatures, enjoy educational programs, and let the kids explore the miniature play area. There are also some dining and shopping options here, if you're in search of a few key souvenirs.

Getting In: Sea Life Park Hawaii tickets are included with the Go Oahu pass.

Snorkel one of the most beautiful stretches of water in the entire world with a journey under the sea in Hanauma Bay. You’ll get the opportunity to swim through a gorgeous reef filled with turtles, rays, fish, and more. It’s an easy snorkeling excursion, too, suitable for amateurs and experienced snorkelers alike.

Getting In: Hanauma Bay Snorkel gear rentals are included with the Go Oahu pass.

This two-mile round-trip excursion is a great opportunity to roam the stunning southeastern coastline of Oahu. The Makapu’u Point Trail takes you up to a grand old historic lighthouse, with a hyper-radiant light that’s over 100 years old! A fun activity for active travelers who appreciate history.

Getting In: Makapu’u Lighthouse Hike shuttle tickets are included with the Go Oahu pass.

There are so many things to do at Kualoa Ranch that you’ll run out of time before you run out of activities. Explore the jungle, take a tour of famous movie sites, visit an ancient Hawaiian fishpond and tropic garden, or relax on Secret Island Beach – you can do it all at Kualoa Ranch!

Getting In: Many activities at Kualoa Ranch are included with the Go Oahu pass.

Located at the base of the Ko’olau Mountains, this gorgeous 400-acre botanical garden features a vast selection of native Hawaiian plants, tropical trees & flowers, and even ethnobotanical exhibits. In addition to roaming the gardens, you can also hike, bike, or camp. Nature-lovers should consider this a must-visit.

Getting In: Admission to the Ho'omaluhia Botanical Gardens is free.

This semi-private surf lesson, offered by Sea & Board Sports Hawaii, is a great opportunity to learn how to participate in one of Hawaii’s most treasured pastimes. Under the watchful eye of your instructor over the course of this hour-long lesson, you’ll learn how to tackle basic surfing skills. You’ll be able to catch waves in no time!

Getting In: Private Group Surf Lessons are available as a premium option on 3, 5, and 7-Day Go Oahu pass.

Visit one of Oahu’s best attractions and learn lots about Polynesian cultures, peoples, and history. This 42-acre marvel is filled with authentic activities and demonstrations like fire-dancing, spear-throwing, canoe rides, coconut husking, and even the Haka warrior dance.

Getting In: Polynesian Cultural Center tickets are included with the Go Oahu pass.

Hosted at the Polynesian Cultural Center, the amazing Ali’i Luau and Dinner Show is a unique, totally Hawaiian entertainment experience that is not to be missed. As you dine upon authentic, delicious Hawaiian cuisine, you’ll be treated to the show of a lifetime. “Ha – Breath of Life” is an inspiring tale told through dance, song, and even fire knives.

Getting In: Ali’i Luau & Dinner show tickets are available as a premium option on 3, 5, and 7-Day Go Oahu pass.

This is one of the more popular destinations on the North Shore. Perfect for art connoisseurs or just fans of pretty things, the Haleiwa Art Gallery has been serving Oahu for years, offering beautiful and unique works of art to view or to purchase. Featuring everything from glass sculptures to painting to photographs and even textiles, this gallery displays practically any media you can think of!

Getting In: Admission to the Haleiwa Art Gallery is free.

Home to 50,000 works of art and the largest showcase of visual programs in Hawaii, this place is something to behold. Inside you'll find art and textiles from Asia, Europe, and the Americas, with some pieces dating up to 5,000 years old! What's more, the museum is housed in an impressive, colonnaded villa dating from 1927.

What makes it unique is that the Honolulu Museum of Art is dedicated to the collection, preservation, interpretation, and teaching of visual arts, which means that you are in for a very informative day out!

Getting in: Admission to the Honolulu Museum of Art is free.

With over 25 rides and attractions to enjoy, Wet n’ Wild Hawaii promises hours of fun to all. Body surf in a massive wave pool, hop aboard exhilarating rides and slides, unwind in a hot tub, and float down an 800-foot river. It’s great for adults and kids alike and is an ideal way to cool down on a hot Hawaiian day.

Getting In: Wet n’ Wild Hawaii tickets are included with the Go Oahu pass.

The spectacular views available from Kaena Point are unlike anything else on the island. You’ll see the Waianae coast (south) and Mokuleia (north), in addition to sweeping vistas of the Pacific. This is also traditionally considered a sacred spot, so a visit here is both a natural and cultural opportunity. Take a hike up the top for postcard-perfect pictures.

Getting In: Admission to Kaena Point is free.

This one week in Hawaii itinerary was designed to be a great introduction to the island, and a fun way to spend 7 days in Oahu. Remember, many of these amazing options and more are available on our Oahu attractions passes, where you can save up to 55% on combined admission vs. paying at the gate. We hope you consider adding a few of these fun options to your upcoming Hawaiian vacation itinerary.

Looking for some shorter itinerary ideas? Then head on over to our 2 days in Oahu, or 3 days in Oahu itinerary.

This Hawaii itinerary is authored by Kiyoko Hall.

The state of Hawaii consists of 137 drop-dead gorgeous islands, and is still growing!

It’s no surprise that there is quite a bit to do and see, which can make trip planning pretty tough. You could spend ages exploring just the 7 inhabited islands and barely scratch the surface.

So how do you get the most out of 7 days in Hawaii? Check out this one week Hawaii itinerary!

There is no better way to spend your first time in Hawaii than by jumping right into the culture on your first day. Guests of the Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort can learn lei making from some of the staff.

All the supplies are provided, so you can make your own lei while learning about its cultural significance to the people of Hawaii.

After that, make your way to the Polynesian Cultural Center. It’s a bit expensive, but I highly recommend the tour that includes the luau and night show.

The Polynesian Culture Center is a place dedicated entirely to preserving the various traditions and cultures of the Polynesian countries.

The center consists of six different “villages,” each having various shows and activities to help visitors learn about their respective cultures.

At the luau, you get to eat some scrumptious, traditional Hawaiian food, and at the evening show, you get to see all of the villages come together to showcase their talents and traditions.

Despite being a large tourist attraction, Diamond Head is still a must for any Hawaii itinerary.

Despite the history that surrounds it, it offers breathtaking views of the bright blue ocean and the bustling city of Honolulu.

The hike to the top of Diamond Head is only 0.8 miles, but is quite steep and involves many steps. Make sure to get there early in the morning, as the parking lot will most likely fill up after 8 AM.

If the parking lot is full, you have to park down further and then hike up to the park entrance, which adds to your already strenuous hike.

If you’re a history buff or just a fan of the TV show Hawaii Five-O, swing by the famous statue of King Kamehameha (frequently shown in various scenes of Hawaii Five-O).

Hawaii was originally a monarchy under King Kamehameha, who was known for uniting all the Hawaiian islands into one nation and ending the conflict that had existed among them. Across the street from the statue is Iolani Palace, the royal residence of the monarch family.

End the day with a relaxing afternoon on the popular Waikiki beach.

It will likely be crowded, but it should still be possible to find your own little spot on the sand to sit back and relax.

It’s a must-visit beach for your first trip to Hawaii. If you’re feeling cliché, you can try and write something memorable in the sand before the water comes up and washes it away!

On Friday nights, you can even see fantastic firework shows held out over the water.

At first glance, day 3 of this Hawaii itinerary seems a little jam-packed with activities, but it is easily do-able even at a slow pace. However, it’s another early morning so make sure you get to bed at a decent time!

Pearl Harbor is another one of those must-visit places for a Hawaii itinerary, if only for the historical significance.

The bombing of Pearl Harbor is what ultimately brought the United States into World War II, and its importance in US history makes it quite interesting, even for those who aren’t overly excited about history.

The main attraction at Pearl Harbor, a tour of the USS Arizona, is free, but still requires a ticket (as they limit the number of entries per day). Tickets are available for reservation in advance but are quickly snatched up.

If you don’t manage to reserve a ticket, don’t fret. 1,300 walk-up tickets are available daily. However, the tickets are first-come-first-serve, so make sure to get there early to ensure that you get a ticket.

If you are particularly interested in history, you can check out some of the other attractions at Pearl Harbor, such as the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum & Park, the Battleship Missouri Memorial and Pacific Aviation Museum, and guided tours of the USS Missouri. If not, head on over to the Dole Plantation.

It may not sound really exciting at first, but Dole Plantation is a great place for people of all ages.

The plantation’s garden is home to several unique tropical plants and offers several informational posts along the way to help you learn more about the plantation and its history.

If you feel like you have strong directional skills/enjoy getting lost, you can attempt to make your way through the pineapple, one of the world’s largest, permanent mazes.

After you’ve tired of wandering around the maze, you can catch a ride on the pineapple express train tour.

If you’ve never been to Japan, I recommend fitting a stop at Byodoin Temple into your Hawaii itinerary. It’s a replica of the original Byodo-in Temple in Japan and commemorates the first Japanese immigrants to Hawaii.

It’s a great introduction to Japanese culture. Plus, it’s a filming location of Hawaii Five-O, Lost, and Magnum, P.I.

There’s no better way to end a busy day than relaxing on a beach. Instead of Waikiki, head over to the less-crowded Lanikai Beach, which is often ranked one the best beaches in Oahu.

The bright white sand beach and endless blue water is definitely a reminder of why many people call Hawaii “paradise.”

While I’m recommending three days, you could spend ages exploring Oahu! But let’s hop over to the next island…

If you love to just relax by a beach that is crowded by tourists or go on adventurous hikes, you could easily spend a week in Kauai. However, when trying to see the best of Hawaii in one week, Kauai can be done in a day.

Make sure to catch an early flight on Hawaiian Airlines to Kauai, and have a rental car reserved and ready for you so you can hit the ground running.

Kauai is known for its famous Na Pali coast, some of the tallest sea cliffs in the world.

If nothing else, I recommend doing a tour with the Na Pali Experience to get breathtaking views of the towering cliffs. Most of the tour groups will even take you inside many of the sea caves if the water isn’t too rough.

At the end of the tour, you can go snorkeling by some of the large reefs, and if you’re lucky you can even see some dolphins or sea turtles. Personally, this was my favorite stop along my Hawaii itinerary.

If you have some time before or after the tour, I highly recommend checking out Waimea Canyon. Unlike some canyons that have more of a desert feel, this canyon is quite colorful with its shades of red, brown, and green.

Head to one of the lookout points to get a good view from the top of 3,600 feet deep canyon and maybe even catch a rainbow across one of the many waterfalls found within.

If you have more time, it would be worth hanging out and learning more about the culture and legends of Kauai and even tackling the Kalepa Ridge Trail.

Depending on how rough the waters were during your Na Pali tour, you’ll want a day to just relax and recover. Even those who don’t normally have problems with motion sickness were feeling a little seasick the day after.

In the morning, catch a flight to the island of Hawaii (often referred to as “The Big Island” so as not to confuse it with the state of Hawaii) and pick up another rental car near Kona airport. The Big Island is the largest of islands (surprise!), so you’ll definitely want a car to get around.

The Big Island is home to large number of incredible Hawaii tree houses, you should definitely consider staying in one during your time here.

If you don’t get claustrophobic, consider reserving a spot with Atlantis Adventures for a submarine tour.

Once you board the submarine, take a seat in front of one of the many porthole windows, then sit back and relax as the submarine cruises along the bottom of the ocean.

It reaches depths of about 110 feet and gives views of the various sea life that call Hawaii their home and you can even see some of the shipwrecks found in the area.

After the tour, head over to Punalu’u Beach, also known as Black Sand Beach.

The black color comes from lava fragments of the nearby volcano and really stands out next to the beautiful blue of the ocean. Check ahead of time to see whether or not swimming is permitted, as the currents can sometimes be quite strong.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a must if you’ve never gotten to see a volcano up close and personal. I was only at the park for an afternoon, but I very much regret not setting aside an entire day to check out this wonderful place.

The park is quite large and has two main self-guided driving tours: The Crater Rim Drive Tour and Chain of Craters Road. If you have the time, I recommend doing both, as each has unique sights to see.

Attractions along the driving tours include Jagger Museum (which overlooks the ongoing eruption within Halema’uma’u crater), walking through lava tubes (a cave formed from rushing lava), and more.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make the long trek to see surface lava.

It’s about a 10-mile hike round trip, and half of it is over boulder-sized lava rock, so it’s definitely not for the faint of heart. However, how many people can say that they saw lava up close and personal?

If you decide to take on the challenge, make sure to be prepared.

Wear good shoes and bring a large bottle of water. If you intend to go at night (because it’s really cool to see the lava lit up on the mountainside at night), bring a heavy-duty flashlight. Your cell phone flashlight will not be enough.

Also, be aware that you will likely lose cell phone service.

Rainbow Falls is definitely worth a stop, and it’s so close to Hilo that it’s not out of the way no matter what your plans are for the day.

The majestic waterfall runs over a cliff side and crashes down into a large crater.

From the parking lot, you can stand at the railing and look out at the waterfall. Then take the short pathway and get a view from the top of the waterfall.

Before catching your flight home, make one last stop at the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Gardens. The garden has beautiful views of the ocean, an impressive waterfall, and over 2,000 species of plants.

If you’re not from a tropical area or don’t visit often, it can definitely be interesting to see the unique plant life not found in other parts of the world.

What an incredible place! I hope your first time in Hawaii was magical, I’m sure it won’t be your last. Make sure you check when to visit Hawaii so you’re coming at the ideal time of year.

Next time, Maui, Molokai, and the rest will have to be on your list. There are still plenty of under the radar areas, like Kihei, waiting to be discovered too.

What are your thoughts on this one week Hawaii itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in Hawaii? Let me know in the comments below!

Kiyoko Hall, a blogger, and dreamer, helps travelers streamline their travel planning process and inspires them to visit new places. Sign up for the Footsteps of a Dreamer newsletter and get her free guide “A Dreamer’s Guide to Trip Planning” to start planning your next trip today!

Visiting Hawaii? Sample itineraries, guides to the best spots, and the must-see highlights in five islands are all waiting for you in the Hawaii Travel Guide collection. Aloha!

Watch this video countdown of the top 5 islands in Hawaii (you might need to disable your ad blocker).

There’s a very good reason why the Island of Hawaii is better known as the “Big Island”. Did you know that you could fit the rest of the islands in the chain inside the Big Island and still have some space left over? The island is by far the most diverse destination in the archipelago, a place where can start your day with some skiing in the mountains, get soaked by torrential afternoon rain in the rainforest, and wrap things up with a sunset dip at the beach. Another Big Island plus is the vibe, usually very low-key, unpretentious, and sometimes authentically rugged. In fact, I made the Big Island my home for several months before exploring the other islands.

Since you only have three days on the Big Island, I recommend either basing yourself for the entire stay on the sunny Kona Coast or around Hilo on the tropical (and obviously wetter) east coast. If you’re coming to the Big Island for “heavy sightseeing” (especially Mauna Kea and the Kilauea Volcano) – the east coast is preferred and will reduce your driving times. If you wish to mix a beach day along the sights of Kilauea, you can get away with staying on the Kona Coast. >> Here’s a link to a complete list of Big Island accommodations that you can book online.

This itinerary focuses on “heavy sightseeing” and will not include a beach day. However, look for the links at the end of the Big Island section of this itinerary, where you can learn more about how to add a beach day to your three days on the Big Island.

If you’re staying on the Kona Coast, start your first day on the Big Island with a drive to the Kohala Region in the north, passing through the paniolo capital of Waimea and catching a glimpse of snow-capped Mauna Kea on the way. You’ll eventually make it to the Waipio Valley Lookout, where we’ll pick things up in just a few lines.

If staying on the Hilo side, start your morning at the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden and stroll through its enchanting grounds which slope to a rugged beach. Continue your journey north to Akaka Falls and pause for a coffee/lunch break in the tiny town of Honomu. You’ll then be treated to awesome coastal views as you push north to the Waipio Valley Lookout. Waipio Valley is the most majestic of the Big Island’s valleys but to get down to its beach and hiking trails, you’ll either need to drive a 4WD or walk down one of the steepest roads in the U.S. Still got some time? Make the long journey to Mauna Kea to watch the sun set beneath the cloudline followed by stargazing from one of the clearest spots in the world for observing the night sky.

Start day two in Rainbow Falls, where mornings are the best time to catch the spectacle for which this waterfall gets its name (take the scenic Saddle Road if staying on the Kona Coast). Continue to Hilo – the Big Island’s largest and most Hawaiian town. If it’s market day (Wed and Sat), stock up on fresh produce and enjoy the sights and sounds of a proper market. Have lunch at Suisan Fish Market – home of the best poke bowls in the Big Island – and continue south to check out the beaches, Lava State Monument Park, and thermal pools. Be sure to reach the Kalapana Viewing Area a few hours before sunset and hike or cycle to the current lava flow in Kalapana – an experience you’ll never forget.

Spend your final day in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park getting to know the Kilauea Volcano from up close via hikes, scenic drives, lava tubes and more. Wrap things up at the Jaggar Museum as the sun sets and watch the night sky illuminated by lava erupting from the birthplace of the fire goddess Pele!

Your 7 days in Hawaii are about to reach their climax with the visit to Kauai. Known as the “Garden Isle”, Kauai is blessed with immense natural beauty and even a quick trip to the gas station quickly turns into a scenic drive. It is the oldest of the major Hawaiian islands, home to some of the wettest spots on our planet and to the largest concentration of “hippies” and vegans in the state. Given its geological head start, Mother Nature has had millennia to erode Kauai’s volcanic peaks and carve its lush interior into absolute works of art. You come to Kauai for the outdoors and to get as close as possible to experience that “paradise” of a feeling.

Though not an absolute must, I recommend splitting your time in Kauai between the north and south coasts. On the tropical north coast, stay in the vacation community of Princeville or in the paradise-setting of Hanalei. Down south, where it’s usually sunny, Poipu is a top choice for families and resort-goers, while Hanapepe is more laid-back. If you prefer not to swap accommodations midway, it simply means you’ll need to get an early start on the days visiting the opposite coast. >> Here’s a link to a complete list of Kauai accommodations that you can book online.

Spend the first of your 4 days in Kauai exploring the area from Lihue to Hanapepe. Pause for a picnic lunch in Poipu Beach and pick up the coastal Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail to the secluded Maha’ulepu Beach for some sun and snorkeling. On the walk back, check out Makauwahi Cave – one of the richest fossil sites in Hawaii. For awesome sunset views, head to either Salt Pond Park on the Hanapepe side or to Menehune Fishpond Overlook on the Lihue side.

On day two, get an early start and drive the scenic Waimea Canyon Drive. Admire the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” from dozens of lookouts and continue to Koke’e State Park where you can pick up a few hiking trails and enjoy spectacular views of the Na Pali Coastline. If you’re the active type, avoid the urge to stop at the scenic lookouts and start the day with the Awa’awapuhi Trail, where a rocky ledge from which incredible views of the Na Pali Coast is waiting for you. In the evening, head to Luau Kalamaku for the best Polynesian dance show in Kauai.

On day three, head up the coast to Hanalei Bay. En route, gaze at Wailua Falls from its lookout, stop for lunch at the Kilauea Fish Market, and visit the bird sanctuary at the Kilauea Lighthouse. Spend the rest of your day in Hanalei and its gorgeous bay – the largest in Kauai – and celebrate a successful day with sunset drinks at the Tahiti Nui Bar & Restaurant.

On day four, get an extra early start and drive to Ke’e Beach. Stretch your legs and hike part of the Kalalau Trail – one of the best hikes in Hawaii – to either Hanakapiai Beach or even further inland to Hanakapiai Falls (access permits now required). After the strenuous effort, get some beach and snorkel time in Tunnels Beach – the best beach in Kauai!

I hope you’ve found this 7 days in Hawaii sample itinerary helpful in building your own Hawaiian adventure. Want to see more of Hawaii? Guides to the best beaches, scenic drives and plenty more are all waiting for you in the Hawaii Travel Guide collection. Aloha!

• Day 1: Arrive in Honolulu and enjoy Waikiki.
• Day 2: Exploring the Oahu interior, from Diamond Head to the North Shore.
• Day 3: Pearl Harbor and a taste of Hawaiian culture.
• Day 4: Fly to The Big Island And The Kona Coast.
• Day 5: Rainforests and mountains on Big Island.