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Top Things You Need to Know Before You Visit Hawaii
- Tammy Baxter
- Nov 3, 2024
- 3 min read
With its lush landscapes, stunning beaches, and rich cultural heritage, Hawaii stands as a paradise unlike any other. This tropical archipelago in the central Pacific Ocean consists of eight main islands, each offering its own unique charm and beauty. From the vibrant capital of Honolulu on Oahu to the dramatic cliffs of Kauai and the volcanic landscapes of the Big Island, Hawaii's diversity invites travelers to explore its natural wonders and experience the aloha spirit that permeates its culture. Whether you're drawn to surfing legendary waves, hiking through lush rainforests, or simply relaxing on pristine shores, Hawaii promises an unforgettable adventure in paradise.
1. Deciding The Best Time to Visit Hawaii.
Hawaii is a group of volcanic islands located in the central Pacific Ocean. The Islands of Hawaii are a beautiful place to vacation. While year-round temperatures range between 70°F (21°C) and 80°F (27°C), you can visit Hawaii any time of year. Some seasons, for example during the winter (December through March), may be rainier and warmer during the summer (June through September). The best time to visit Hawaii is between March and September. This is when the islands see the highest temperatures and the lowest amount of rain. Overall weather wise, it’s never a bad time to visit Hawaii.
When planning your vacation, keep in mind the busiest time to visit would be during the winter months (December through April) due to travelers trying to escape the colder weather in some areas of the mainland. Also, during the summer months when most families take summer vacations (June through August).
2. Budget for a Hawaii Vacation: Accommodations, Airfare, Tours and Meals.
It’s always a great idea to consider the cost and there are four important items to think about while planning your trip. For most travelers’ accommodations and airfare will be the most expensive items for our trip. Accommodations, because most families vacation during the summer months, you will find the availability of room accommodations to be limited and rates tend to be higher, especially during holidays such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s, Spring break and/or Easter.
The rates for airfare on average will be approximately $1000 per person, determined by the time of year you travel and your departing location. I live in the Washington, DC area and my roundtrip airfare was around $800 per person in mid-September. An easy way to locate reasonable airfare is to use the SkyScanner or Jet Radar websites. These sites allow you to perform flexible searches to discover the best possible fare. Don’t forget, it’s also worth checking directly with the airlines.
Tours, here’s where there can be a bit of a challenge when trying to average out the costs for tours and excursions. For big ticket items, such as the helicopter tour, rates average approximately $395 per person. Moderate excursions such as a luau starting at $120 per person. All rates are based on your personal preference. Checkout Viator to explore a few excursions in Hawaii.
Meals: Whether you go to a restaurant or purchase food items on the go, food in Hawaii can be very expensive. Even if your resort/hotel offers continental breakfast or have restaurants onsite, you will most likely need to purchase the majority of your meals. The average cost for breakfast, lunch and dinner can be around $100 however this is based on where you eat.
In 2023, the average cost for a seven-day vacation, based on double occupancy was between $4000 and $4500. However, this is based on an individual’s personal preference. In summary, avoiding peak-season travel will money from your Hawaii vacation budget, depending on the length of stay and departure dates.
3. Respect the Hawaiian Culture.
If you don’t know, please ask and never assume. Know the history of the islands, the difference between Hawaiians and Hawaii Residents, tip those who serve you and Respect Sacred Sites are a few Do’s to remember.
Of course, there are less expensive destinations to travel however the Hawaiian Islands are by far the most beautiful places to visit. With its sunny weather and beautiful sandy beaches, what else could you ask for.
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