There is a good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you click on any of these links, I might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you (which I really appreciate, thank you!) The full disclosure policy can be found here.
A first timer’s guide to Hawaii
So, you’re planning a Hawaii vacation. Congratulations!! You’re going to love Hawaii. From beautiful beaches to breathtaking mountains to crystal clear water, Hawaii has something for everyone.
This first timer’s guide to Hawaii will help you get started in planning your Hawaii vacation.
First, there are a few things to learn about Hawaii before you plan your vacation.
A first timer’s guide to Hawaii
Before you do anything else, make sure to check out 10 things to know before going to Hawaii and 20 things to never do in Hawaii.
Do I need to rent a car in Hawaii?
You’ll definitely need a rental car, I recommend Discount Hawaii Car Rental. You’ll find the best prices on rental cars in Hawaii.
You can reserve your car now and pay upon arrival. Prices are so much lower than anywhere else, make sure you reserve early for the best deals.
Work with a Hawaii Travel Agent
As a Hawaii Travel Agent, of course, I am going to recommend that you work with a travel planner who specializes in Hawaii.
Even though Hawaii is technically part of the United States, it’s far away and really does feel like another place entirely.
Trying to plan a Hawaii vacation can be overwhelming, so why not work with an expert and save yourself time, and probably a lot of hassle.
I’d love to plan your Hawaii vacation!
You can spend hours trying to figure things out on your own, only to end up feeling more confused. Contact me or fill out my custom travel request and we’ll plan a Hawaii vacation that’s perfect just for you.
If working with a Travel Agent isn’t for you, no hard feelings! I have plenty of information on this blog to help you DIY a Hawaii vacation if you’d prefer to go in that direction.
Don’t try to visit every island
If you learn one thing from this first timer’s guide to Hawaii, let it be this! Don’t try to visit every island on your first Hawaii vacation.
I recommend one week per island. If you only have one week, you should visit two islands maximum. Just trust me, there are plenty of things to do and see on each island.
Let’s take a quick peek at the islands to help you decide:
Things to do in Maui
Big Island
Some of the most beautiful waterfalls on the Big Island are located in Hilo. I have a post with 20 things to do in Hilo if you’re interested.
Kauai
To learn more about Oahu check out 10 things to do in Waikiki or things to do in Haleiwa.
Try some local food
You’re in Hawaii, don’t forget to try some local food. First, check out the Farmer’s Markets and check out the fabulous fresh produce. You might also want to try some local dishes such as:
Hawaiian Plate Lunch, Shave Ice, Saimin, Poke, Manapua, and the Loco Moco.
Learn about history and culture before you leave
You don’t have to learn everything about Hawaii before you visit, but take some time to read a book or two before you leave.
You can also get a free Audible trial and listen to the book, or a free Kindle Unlimited trial to read it on a Kindle.
I have another post with 10 things to know before going to Hawaii that can also help you. At the very least, you should learn a few basic Hawaiian words.
Yes, people in Hawaii speak English, but you’ll also hear a few Hawaiian words very often:
Aloha
You probably already know this one! Aloha is used for hello, and goodbye but also has a deeper cultural and spiritual significance.
The real meaning of Aloha in Hawaiian is that of love, peace, and compassion. It’s a guideline on how to live, and so much more than just a greeting.
Mahalo
Mahalo means thank you. Make sure to say “mahalo” to anyone who helps you in some way.
Honu
Hawaiian green sea turtle. To learn more about sea turtles, check out the where to find sea turtles on the Big Island.
You can also find out more about sea turtles in my post on the best black sand beaches in Maui.
Honu resting at Punalu’u Black Sand Beach on the Big Island of Hawaii.
A hui hou
Until we meet again.
Mauka
Toward the mountain, often used in directions.
Makai
Toward the ocean, also used when giving directions.
Of course, there are plenty of other Hawaiian words you should learn, but these are a few to get you started.
5. Go to a luau
If it’s your first time visiting Hawaii, I know a luau is on your Hawaii bucket list. I have a blog post about the best luaus in Hawaii, but I’ll link my favorites on each island here:
Kauai – Smith Family Garden Luau.
Big Island – Island Breeze Luau at The Sheraton Kona.
Oahu – Ali’i Luau at the Polynesian Cultural Center.
Maui – The Feast at Lele.
Planning a Hawaii vacation
I hope that this first timer’s guide to Hawaii will help you plan the perfect Hawaii vacation. If you need more ideas, check out my guides to planning a vacation on each of the main islands.
If you haven’t decided which island to visit, check out which Hawaii island is best.
- How to plan a Maui vacation.
- A guide to planning an Oahu vacation.
- How to plan a Big Island vacation.
- How to plan a Kauai vacation.
A first timer’s guide to Hawaii
If you’re looking for a Hawaii honeymoon or vacation personalized just for you, give me a call! I specialize in working with clients to create the perfect vacation for you.
That means no packages; everything is personalized. Make sure to contact me or go ahead and fill out a custom travel request, and I’ll get back to you to start planning ASAP! I’m only taking on a select number of clients per month, so contact me to check availability.
Dreaming of Hawaii, but not ready to travel just yet? Sign up for my newsletter! You will receive a weekly email with travel tips, Hawaii deals, and more. I’ll be there whenever you’re ready to plan your vacation. Sign up below. If you love these posts and want to support my blog but aren’t prepared to travel yet, you can buy me a coffee to show your support. I ❤️ coffee!
Pin it for later:
Thank you
You’re welcome!