2 Week Hawaii Itinerary

2 Week Hawaii Itinerary

Date : [Date]

Prepared by: [Your Name]

Destination: Hawaii


Introduction

This two-week itinerary takes travelers through the enchanting islands of Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island. From the bustling streets of Honolulu to the tranquil shores of Maui and the volcanic wonders of the Big Island, each day promises new adventures and unforgettable experiences. The journey begins on Oahu, where the vibrant energy of Honolulu and the serene beauty of the North Shore await. From there, we'll explore the historic sites of Pearl Harbor, explore the Road to Hana, and enjoy the flavors of Maui's upcountry. The journey ends on the Big Island, where the fiery landscapes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the pristine beaches of the Kona Coast await.

Week 1: Oahu and Maui

Day 1: Arrival in Honolulu

  • Arrive at Honolulu International Airport.

  • Check into your hotel in Waikiki.

  • Relax on Waikiki Beach and watch the sunset.

What to Do

What Not to Do

Enjoy the welcoming atmosphere of the airport.

Forget to secure your belongings.

Arrange transportation to your hotel promptly.

Leave valuables unattended.

Check into your hotel in Waikiki promptly.

Disregard safety precautions, especially in water activities.

Explore Waikiki's shops, restaurants, and attractions.

Overexpose yourself to the sun without protection.

Relax on Waikiki Beach and enjoy the scenery.

Litter or disregard environmental conservation.

Hotel Recommendation:

Halekulani Hotel

  • Location: 2199 Kalia Rd, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA

  • Description: Halekulani is a luxurious beachfront hotel located on Waikiki Beach. It offers elegant accommodations, world-class dining, and impeccable service. The hotel features stunning ocean views, lush gardens, and a range of amenities including a spa, swimming pool, and fitness center.

Restaurant Recommendation:

Duke's Waikiki

Location: 2335 Kalakaua Ave #116, Honolulu, HI 96815, USA

Description: Duke's Waikiki is a popular restaurant located on the beachfront of Waikiki. Named after Duke Kahanamoku, a legendary Hawaiian surfer, this restaurant offers a casual dining experience with a relaxed atmosphere and breathtaking ocean views. Duke's specializes in fresh seafood, Hawaiian-inspired cuisine, and signature cocktails.

Day 2&3: North Shore Adventure

  • Drive to the North Shore.

  • Visit the famous surfing beaches such as Pipeline and Sunset Beach.

  • Explore Haleiwa town and enjoy local food.

  • Visit the Dole Plantation and try their famous Dole Whip.

What to Do

What Not to Do

Explore the stunning beaches of North Shore.

Ignore safety warnings regarding ocean conditions.

Watch experienced surfers at Banzai Pipeline.

Litter or damage the environment.

Visit Haleiwa Town for shopping and dining.

Disrespect local customs and traditions.

Go hiking in Waimea Valley or Pu'u O Mahuka Heiau.

Overpack your schedule and miss out on relaxation.

Experience Polynesian culture at a luau or cultural center.

Miss out on trying local cuisine and supporting local eateries.

Some recommended foods to try during your North Shore adventure in Hawaii

  1. Shave Ice: Enjoy this iconic Hawaiian treat made with finely shaved ice topped with flavored syrups. Matsumoto's Shave Ice in Haleiwa Town is a popular spot to indulge in this refreshing treat.

  2. Garlic Shrimp: North Shore is famous for its garlic shrimp trucks. Head to Giovanni's Shrimp Truck or Romy's Kahuku Prawns & Shrimp for delicious shrimp plates cooked with garlic and served with rice.

  3. Poke: Sample some fresh poke, a traditional Hawaiian dish made with diced raw fish (often tuna or salmon) marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and other seasonings. Try the poke bowls at local markets or restaurants for a taste of authentic Hawaiian cuisine.

  4. Plate Lunch: Treat yourself to a plate lunch, a classic Hawaiian meal consisting of a protein (such as chicken, pork, or fish) served with rice and macaroni salad. Ted's Bakery in Haleiwa offers hearty plate lunches with a variety of options to choose from.

  5. Loco Moco: Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with a loco moco, a dish featuring a hamburger patty topped with a fried egg and gravy, served over rice. Check out local diners or roadside eateries for this satisfying dish.

    Day 4&5: Travel to Maui

    • Take a short flight to Maui.

    • Check into your hotel in Lahaina or Kihei.

    • Relax on the beach and enjoy the sunset.

Things to Do

Things to Avoid

Explore the Road to Hana

Overcrowded Tourist Spots

Visit Haleakalā National Park

Disrespecting Local Culture

Snorkel or Dive

Leaving Valuables Unattended

Enjoy Beach Time

Ignoring Weather Warnings

Attend a Luau

Feeding Wildlife

Go Whale Watching

Littering

Try Local Cuisine

Ignoring Ocean Safety

Drive the West Maui Loop

Trespassing on Private Property

Take a Helicopter Tour

Not Respecting Wildlife

Explore Lahaina Town

Driving Recklessly

Choosing a hotel in Maui depends on your preferences, budget, and the areas you plan to explore.

Luxury Hotels:

  1. Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea: Located in Wailea, this luxurious resort offers stunning ocean views, spacious rooms, world-class dining, and impeccable service.

  2. Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort: A contemporary luxury resort in Wailea, offering modern accommodations, multiple pools, a full-service spa, and access to beautiful beaches.

Mid-Range Hotels:

  1. Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa: Situated on Kaanapali Beach, this hotel offers comfortable rooms, multiple dining options, a lagoon-style pool, and easy access to snorkeling and other water activities.

  2. Napili Kai Beach Resort: Located in Napili Bay, this charming resort offers oceanfront accommodations, a beautiful beach, complimentary Hawaiian activities, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Day 6&7 Upcountry and Sunset

  • Explore the Upcountry region of Maui, including the towns of Makawao and Kula.

  • Visit the Maui Wine vineyard for a tasting

  • Drive up to the summit of Haleakalā for sunset.

    Week 2: Big Island

    Day 8: Arrival in Hilo

    • Fly to Hilo on the Big Island.

    • Check into your hotel.

    • Explore downtown Hilo and visit the farmers' market.

    What to Do:

    What Not to Do:

    1. Explore Downtown Hilo

    1. Disrespect the Environment

    2. Visit Rainbow Falls

    2. Ignore Weather Warnings

    3. Explore the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

    3. Disregard Cultural Customs

    4. Enjoy the Beaches

    4. Miss Out on Local Cuisine

    History of Hilo:

    1. Tsunami History: Hilo has a significant history with tsunamis, with devastating events occurring in 1946 and 1960. The 1960 tsunami, triggered by a massive earthquake in Chile, caused extensive damage to the town and claimed many lives. Visitors can learn about the history of tsunamis and their impact on Hilo at the Pacific Tsunami Museum.

    2. Sugar Industry: Like many parts of Hawaii, Hilo was once a hub for the sugar industry. Plantations played a significant role in shaping the economy and culture of the region. While the sugar industry has declined, its legacy is still evident in the landscape and communities of Hilo.

    3. Cultural Diversity: Hilo is known for its rich cultural diversity, influenced by Hawaiian, Asian, and European settlers. The blending of these cultures has created a vibrant community with unique traditions, festivals, and cuisine.

    Day 9 &10: Volcanoes National Park

    • Spend the day exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

    • Visit the Jaggar Museum and Halema'uma'u Crater.

    • Take a hike through Thurston Lava Tube.

What to Do

What Not to Do

1. Explore the Crater Rim Drive

1. Venture Off Marked Trails

2. Visit the Jaggar Museum

2. Touch or Collect Lava Rocks

3. Hike the Trails

3. Ignore Safety Warnings

4. View Lava Flows

4. Feed Wildlife

5. Attend Ranger Programs

5. Leave Trash Behind

Day 11&12: Mauna Kea

  • Take a guided tour to the summit of Mauna Kea.

  • Experience stargazing at the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station.

What to Do

What Not to Do

Respect the Culture

Do Not Disturb Sacred Sites

Educate Yourself

Do Not Trespass

Follow Regulations

Do Not Leave Graffiti or Markings

Stay on Designated Trails

Do Not Bring Invasive Species

Pack Out What You Pack In

Do Not Drive Off-Road

Be Prepared

Do Not Disturb Wildlife

History of Mauna Kea:

  1. Native Hawaiian Culture: Learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Native Hawaiian people, who have inhabited the islands for centuries. Explore traditional practices, beliefs, and customs, including hula dancing, lei making, and storytelling.

  2. Polynesian Voyaging: Discover the history of Polynesian voyaging and navigation, which played a crucial role in the settlement of Hawaii and other Pacific islands. Visit cultural centers and museums that showcase traditional Polynesian sailing techniques and the importance of celestial navigation.

  3. Mauna Kea Observatories: Explore the fascinating history of astronomy and scientific research on Mauna Kea. Learn about the world-renowned observatories located atop the mountain and their contributions to our understanding of the universe. Many observatories offer guided tours and educational programs for visitors interested in astronomy and space exploration.

  4. Ancient Hawaiian Sites: Explore ancient Hawaiian sites and landmarks located in the vicinity of Mauna Kea, such as heiaus (sacred temples), petroglyph fields, and archaeological sites. These sites offer insights into the spiritual and cultural practices of the Native Hawaiian people and their deep connection to the land.

Day 13: Water Activities

  • Enjoy water activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, or a boat tour to see dolphins and whales.

  • Relax on the beaches of the Kohala Coast.

Day 14: Departure

Spending your last day relaxing or exploring Hilo offers a perfect finale to your journey, allowing you to soak in the natural beauty and cultural richness of the area before departing from Hilo International Airport.

Relaxing in Hilo:

  • Embrace the tranquil vibes of Hilo by indulging in a leisurely day at one of the many scenic spots. You might choose to lounge by the iconic Rainbow Falls, where you can marvel at the breathtaking cascade of water amidst lush greenery.

  • Consider a peaceful stroll through Lili'uokalani Park and Gardens, a Japanese-style garden that exudes serenity and offers picturesque views of Hilo Bay.

  • Treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa experience or a therapeutic massage to unwind and recharge before your journey back home

Exploring Hilo:

  • Begin your day with an exploration of Hilo's vibrant farmers' market, where you can browse through stalls brimming with exotic fruits, handmade crafts, and local delicacies.

  • Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Hilo by visiting the Lyman Museum and Mission House, where you can learn about the history and traditions of Hawaii through captivating exhibits and artifacts.

  • Take a scenic drive along the Hamakua Coast, stopping at scenic lookout points to marvel at the dramatic cliffs and cascading waterfalls.

Additional Reminders

  • Don't forget to bring proper identification and related documents.

  • Please ensure to bring adequate sun protection for all outdoor activities.

  • If possible, get professionals to guide your hiking and snorkeling activities.

  • Ensure to drink lots of water and stay hydrated.

  • Enjoy and create everlasting memories!

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