Hawaii Guide

Hawaii Guide https://www.hawaii-guide.com Independent Hawaii Travel Tips and Advice en-us Sat, 28 Mar 2026 08:27:42 +0000 https://cdn.hawaiiguide.io/files/images/branding/logo-hawaiiguide-v16-120px.png Hawaii Guide https://www.hawaii-guide.com Things to Do on Oahu Without a Rental Car Sat, 28 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 John C. Derrick

Aerial view of Oahu coastline

How to fill your Oahu vacation with great hikes, beaches, tours, and culture — no rental car needed.

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]]> https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/oahu-activities-without-rental-car https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/oahu-activities-without-rental-car Kilauea Lava Fountains: What Travelers Should Know Sat, 28 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 John C. Derrick

Kilauea volcano erupting with bright orange lava against the night sky on the Big Island of Hawaii

Kilauea's Episode 43 sent lava fountains 1,770 feet high. Episode 44 is forecast for early April. What it means for visitors.

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]]> https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/kilauea-episode-43-lava-fountains-episode-44-forecast https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/kilauea-episode-43-lava-fountains-episode-44-forecast Lei Day 2026: Hawaiʻi's 98th Annual Celebration Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 John C. Derrick Events

Beautiful white Hawaiian lei garland with tropical flowers

The 98th Lei Day celebration hits Kapiʻolani Park May 1, 2026. Lei contests, hula, free workshops, and what visitors need to know.

]]> https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/lei-day-hawaii-may-day-celebration-guide https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/lei-day-hawaii-may-day-celebration-guide King Kamehameha Day 2026: Parades & Lei Draping Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 John C. Derrick Events

King Kamehameha statue draped with long flower lei during the annual lei draping ceremony in Honolulu

King Kamehameha Day 2026 brings floral parades and lei draping ceremonies across all islands. Full schedule and visitor tips.

]]> https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/king-kamehameha-day-celebrations-guide https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/king-kamehameha-day-celebrations-guide Hawaii's Weirdest Rules & Laws Tourists Don't Know About Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 John C. Derrick

Green sea turtle resting on a sandy Hawaiian beach — a protected species you cannot touch under federal law

From $25,000 fines for touching sea turtles to illegal beach drinking on every island, here are the Hawaii laws that catch visitors off guard.

]]> https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/hawaii-rules-laws-tourists-dont-know https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/hawaii-rules-laws-tourists-dont-know Best Roadside Fruit Stands & Farm Stands in Hawaii Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 John C. Derrick

Colorful display of tropical fruits at a Hawaiian roadside fruit stand

The best roadside fruit stands on Oahu, Maui, Big Island, and Kauai — from Kahuku Farms to the banana bread stands on the Road to Hana.

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]]> https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/best-roadside-fruit-stands-hawaii https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/best-roadside-fruit-stands-hawaii Wahiawa Dam Crisis and Oahu Flood Recovery Update Thu, 26 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 John C. Derrick

Hawaii severe weather and storm alerts forecast banner

Two Kona Low storms triggered Hawaii's worst flooding in 20 years. The Wahiawa Dam nearly failed. Trip impact and recovery status.

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]]> https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/wahiawa-dam-oahu-flood-recovery-update https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/wahiawa-dam-oahu-flood-recovery-update Top 10 Big Island Hiking Trails Thu, 26 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 John C. Derrick

Hikers on a trail through lush green landscape on the Big Island of Hawaii

Ten Big Island hikes through lava fields, rainforests, volcanic craters, and valleys — from easy loops to summit climbs.

]]> https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/top-big-island-hiking-trails https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/top-big-island-hiking-trails New Hawaii Hotels and Resorts Opening in 2026 Thu, 26 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 John C. Derrick

Luxury hotel pool overlooking the ocean in Hawaii

Every major Hawaii hotel opening and renovation in 2026 — from Kauai's new Curio Collection to the Mauna Kea's $200M refresh.

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]]> https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/new-hawaii-hotels-resorts-2026 https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/new-hawaii-hotels-resorts-2026 New Flights to Hawaii in 2026: Every Route You Need to Know Thu, 26 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 John C. Derrick

Aerial view of Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu, Hawaii

Alaska, Southwest, and Delta are adding new Hawaii routes in 2026, plus Hawaiian Airlines' $600M fleet overhaul.

]]> https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/new-flights-hawaii-2026 https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/new-flights-hawaii-2026 Most Instagrammable Spots in Hawaii (That Won't Annoy the Locals) Thu, 26 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 John C. Derrick

Dramatic aerial view of Kalalau Valley from the lookout on Kauai with lush green cliffs dropping to the Pacific Ocean

The best photo spots on every Hawaiian island — publicly accessible, local-friendly, and worth your time.

]]> https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/most-instagrammable-spots-hawaii https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/most-instagrammable-spots-hawaii Save Money on Food in Hawaii: 2026 Guide Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 John C. Derrick

Fresh poke bowl with colorful toppings, a classic Hawaii budget meal

Real strategies for eating well in Hawaii without blowing your budget — grocery hacks, plate lunches, food trucks, happy hours, and more for 2026.

]]> https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/tricks-to-save-money-on-food-in-hawaii https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/tricks-to-save-money-on-food-in-hawaii 10 Best Restaurants in Kahului Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 John C. Derrick

View of Kahului from upcountry Maui

Kahului hides some of Maui's best food behind strip malls and on quiet side streets. Here are 10 restaurants worth finding.

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]]> https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/top-restaurants-in-kahului https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/top-restaurants-in-kahului Things to Do in Maui on a Budget Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 John C. Derrick

Things to do in Maui on a budget

Maui doesn't have to drain your bank account. Snorkeling, the Road to Hana, camping, whale watching — here's how to do the island right without overspending.

]]> https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/things-to-do-maui-budget https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/things-to-do-maui-budget Summer 2026 Hawaii Airfare: When to Book Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 John C. Derrick

Sunny Hawaii beach scene perfect for summer travel

Summer airfare to Hawaii is shifting in 2026. Fuel costs, route changes, and global economic pressure are reshaping what you'll pay — and when you should book.

]]> https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/summer-hawaii-airfare-guide https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/summer-hawaii-airfare-guide Romantic Tours on Oahu for Couples Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 John C. Derrick

Couple on Lanikai Beach, Oahu

Oahu is loaded with romantic experiences for couples. Sunset cruises, parasailing, luaus, waterfall hikes. Here's where to start.

]]> https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/romantic-oahu-tours-for-couples https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/romantic-oahu-tours-for-couples Romantic Kauai Tours Every Couple Should Take Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 John C. Derrick

Couple taking a selfie at the Kalalau Valley lookout on Kauai

Kauai is Hawaii's most rugged island — and one of its most romantic. Here are the essential tours every couple should take on the Garden Isle.

]]> https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/romantic-kauai-tours-for-couples https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/romantic-kauai-tours-for-couples Road to Hana Traffic 2026: What Changed Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 John C. Derrick

Winding Road to Hana highway along Maui's lush northeastern coastline

2026 Road to Hana traffic rules, no-parking zones, reservation requirements, fines, and tips for beating congestion.

]]> https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/road-to-hana-traffic-congestion https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/road-to-hana-traffic-congestion Non-Mineral Sunscreen Is Now Illegal on Maui Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 Tori C. Derrick

Coral reef in Hawaii waters

Maui banned all non-mineral sunscreens in October 2022. If the active ingredients aren't zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, it's illegal to sell or use — with fines up to $1,000.

]]> https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/non-mineral-sunscreen-now-illegal-on-maui https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/non-mineral-sunscreen-now-illegal-on-maui Merrie Monarch Festival 2026: Visitor Guide Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 John C. Derrick

Traditional Hawaiian hula dancer performing in a lei and grass skirt

The 63rd Merrie Monarch Festival runs April 5-11 in Hilo. Schedule, craft fair, parade route, and what visitors need to know.

]]> https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/merrie-monarch-festival-2026-guide https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/merrie-monarch-festival-2026-guide Hurricane Season in Hawaii Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 John C. Derrick

Storm clouds gathering over Hawaiian coast

Hawaii's hurricane season runs June through November, but the real risk is tiny. What actually happens and why you shouldn't cancel.

]]> https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/hurricane-season-in-hawaii https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/hurricane-season-in-hawaii How Much Does a Hawaii Vacation Really Cost in 2026? Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 John C. Derrick

Beautiful Hawaii beach scene with crystal blue water

A realistic breakdown of what a Hawaii vacation actually costs in 2026 — flights, hotels, food, activities, and rental cars — with real numbers and ways to cut the bill.

]]> https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/how-much-does-hawaii-vacation-cost https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/how-much-does-hawaii-vacation-cost Hawaii with Kids: Best Islands & Activities Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 John C. Derrick

Family enjoying a sunny day at a Hawaiian beach

The honest guide to taking kids to Hawaii. Which island fits your family, the best activities by age group, safety tips, and the mistakes parents keep making.

]]> https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/hawaii-with-kids-best-islands-activities-tips https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/hawaii-with-kids-best-islands-activities-tips Hawaii Storm Recovery: Roads & Beaches Update Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 John C. Derrick

Storm damage on a coastal Hawaii road

After two consecutive Kona storms, Hawaii's roads and beaches face a much longer recovery than officials have acknowledged. Here's what travelers need to know.

]]> https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/hawaii-roads-beaches-storm-recovery https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/hawaii-roads-beaches-storm-recovery Your Guide to a Hawaii Christmas Vacation Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 John C. Derrick Travel Tips

Hawaii Christmas vacation scene with palm trees and holiday decorations

Plan a Hawaii Christmas vacation with warm beaches, Honolulu City Lights, festive luaus, and island-by-island holiday events.

]]> https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/hawaii-christmas-vacation https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/hawaii-christmas-vacation Renting a Car in Hawaii 2026: Turo vs. Rentals Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 John C. Derrick Travel Tips

Woman taking a selfie in a convertible with a surfboard on Oahu

A 2026 guide to renting a car in Hawaii — real prices by island, Turo vs. traditional agencies, and the booking tricks that actually save you money.

]]> https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/hawaii-car-rental-price-war https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/hawaii-car-rental-price-war Hawaii Lodging Taxes: What You'll Pay in 2026 Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 John C. Derrick Budget

Illustration of rising tax percentages on a financial chart

Hawaii's hotel taxes total 17-18% depending on which island you visit. Here's a full breakdown of the TAT, GET, and county surcharges — and what they mean for your trip budget.

]]> https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/hawaii-accommodation-tax https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/hawaii-accommodation-tax Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge Viewpoint Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 John C. Derrick Things to Do

Hanalei Valley taro fields with mountains and waterfalls on Kauai

Kauai's Hanalei Valley is one of Hawaii's greatest inland views. A new 5-acre viewing area near Princeville is set to replace the old roadside lookout.

]]> https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/hanalei-national-wildlife-refuge-viewpoint https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/hanalei-national-wildlife-refuge-viewpoint First Time in Hawaii: The Ultimate Planning Checklist Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 John C. Derrick Planning

Scenic Hawaii coastline overlooking turquoise water

Planning your first trip to Hawaii? This step-by-step checklist covers timing, flights, accommodations, island picks, packing, and the mistakes first-timers actually make.

]]> https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/first-time-in-hawaii-ultimate-planning-checklist https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/first-time-in-hawaii-ultimate-planning-checklist Hawaii Fishing Guide: Charters & Shore Spots Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000 John C. Derrick Travel Tips

Deep-sea fishing boat with rods rigged and ready off the Hawaiian coast

Complete 2026 guide to Hawaii fishing — deep-sea charters, shore fishing, island-by-island spots, target species by season, costs, and booking tips.

]]> https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/booking-your-hawaii-fishing-trip https://www.hawaii-guide.com/blog/booking-your-hawaii-fishing-trip