7 Days Hawaii Travel Itinerary Guide: Oahu & Maui

This 7-day itinerary is crafted for the visitor to Hawaii, covering two of its most renowned islands: Oahu and Maui. It offers a balanced blend of relaxation, cultural exploration, and outdoor activities.

Day 1: Arrival in Oahu

• Morning: Arrive at Honolulu International Airport (HNL). Opt for a traditional lei greeting to start your Hawaiian experience.
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel in Waikiki. Popular options include the Hilton Hawaiian Village or the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort. Spend the afternoon lounging on Waikiki Beach, known for its golden sands and clear waters. Consider renting a surfboard or paddleboard.
• Evening: Dine at a beachfront restaurant like Duke’s Waikiki or Hula Grill Waikiki. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the beach and take in the sunset views over the Pacific Ocean.

Day 2: Explore Oahu

• Morning: Visit Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial. It’s advisable to arrive early to avoid long lines and to fully appreciate the historical exhibits. The Pearl Harbor Historic Sites include the Battleship Missouri and the Pacific Aviation Museum.
• Afternoon: Drive to the North Shore, renowned for its big-wave surfing. Stop at Waimea Bay for a swim or sunbathe on the sandy shore. Head to Sunset Beach for breathtaking views and a laid-back atmosphere. Enjoy lunch at a famous food truck like Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck for their renowned garlic shrimp.
• Evening: Return to Waikiki. Attend a traditional Hawaiian luau, such as Paradise Cove or Germaine’s Luau, where you can experience hula dancing, fire twirling, and a buffet of Hawaiian cuisine.

Day 3: Adventure on Oahu

• Morning: Hike the Diamond Head Trail, a 1.6-mile trek offering panoramic views of Honolulu and the ocean from the summit. Bring water, sunscreen, and wear comfortable hiking shoes.
• Afternoon: Visit Hanauma Bay, a marine embayment formed within a tuff ring, perfect for snorkeling. Make sure to book your spot online and watch the educational video about coral reef preservation before snorkeling.
• Evening: Dine in the Kaimuki area, known for its eclectic food scene. Try restaurants like The Pig and the Lady or Kaimuki Superette for a unique culinary experience.

Day 4: Travel to Maui

• Morning: Fly from Oahu to Maui via Kahului Airport (OGG). Pick up a rental car at the airport—consider an SUV for comfort and versatility. Check into your hotel in Lahaina or Kihei. Popular options include the Westin Maui Resort & Spa or the Andaz Maui at Wailea.
• Afternoon: Relax at Kaanapali Beach, known for its snorkeling spots and scenic beauty. If you’re up for it, try the Kaanapali Beach Walk, a picturesque pathway along the shoreline.
• Evening: Explore Lahaina town. Visit Front Street, which offers a variety of shops, art galleries, and historic sites. Enjoy dinner at a local favorite like Lahaina Grill or Fleetwood’s on Front St.

Day 5: Road to Hana

• All Day: Embark on the famous Road to Hana, a scenic drive featuring lush landscapes and waterfalls. Notable stops include:
  • Twin Falls: Enjoy a short hike to the falls and a refreshing swim.
  • Waikamoi Ridge: A short, easy hike with scenic views.
  • Wainapanapa State Park: Explore the striking black sand beach and coastal trails.
  • Hana Town: Have lunch at one of the local food trucks, such as Aunty Sandy’s for their famous banana bread.
  • Ohe’o Gulch: If time permits, visit the Seven Sacred Pools for a swim or hike along the Pipiwai Trail.
• Evening: Return to your hotel for a relaxing evening after a day of exploration.

Day 6: Maui Adventures

• Morning: Take an early morning trip to Haleakalā National Park to witness the sunrise from the summit. The park is known for its stunning sunrise views over the crater. Make a reservation in advance as spots fill up quickly.
• Afternoon: Explore Upcountry Maui. Visit local farms like Kula Country Farms or Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm. Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch at a local spot like The Farmacy Health Bar.
• Evening: Return to the coast for a sunset dinner. Consider dining at Merriman’s or Mama’s Fish House for fresh seafood and breathtaking ocean views.

Day 7: Departure

• Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café or your hotel. Take a final stroll along the beach or do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs in Kihei or Lahaina.
• Afternoon: Return your rental car and head to Kahului Airport (OGG) for your flight home.

Tips for Your Trip

• Transportation: Renting a car is essential for exploring both islands efficiently.
• Reservations: Book popular activities, dining, and accommodations well in advance to secure your spot.
• Packing Essentials: Bring reef-safe sunscreen, swimwear, comfortable hiking shoes, a reusable water bottle, and a light jacket for cooler evenings.

This enhanced itinerary offers a comprehensive and engaging experience of Hawaii, blending relaxation with adventure and cultural immersion. Enjoy your trip!