One Day in...Hawaii, USA

Traveler Profile: Ashleigh, 35, USA

Location: Starting in Oahu, Hawaii

Time of Year: June

Travel Goals: Experience the diverse beauty of Hawaii through island-hopping

Island-hopping in Hawaii has always been a dream of mine. I began with the tropical allure of Oahu as my starting point. I was ready for a day filled with exploration, stunning landscapes, and experiencing each island’s unique culture.

Early Morning Sunrise Hike in Oahu

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Christian Mueller

The day began with an early start, catching the sunrise over Diamond Head. The crisp morning air and the vivid colors painting the sky were an excellent way to kick off my island adventure. A moderate hike led me to the summit views of Waikiki and the sparkling Pacific below.

Island-hopping Tip

Start your day early to make the most of the sunlight and enjoy the tranquility of popular spots before the crowds arrive.

Inter-Island Flight to Maui

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Don Lane

After bidding farewell to Oahu, a short inter-island flight took me to Maui, the Valley Isle. The view of the lush landscapes and blue waters from the air during the flight was spectacular. Landing in Maui, I felt the change in atmosphere – a mix of relaxation and adventure awaiting.

Lunch Amidst Maui’s Upcountry

Image Credit: Shutterstock / ElevenStudio

For lunch, I headed to a charming upcountry café called Kula Bistro. It’s known for its fresh, local ingredients. I am a huge fan of the farm-to-table movement, so I appreciated this meal and truly savored the flavors of Maui. The views of the island’s rolling hills and distant coastline added to the dining experience.

Fellow Traveler Tip

Explore the upcountry regions of each island to discover hidden gems and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.

Exploring Haleakalā National Park

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Gary Riegel

In the afternoon, I headed off on a journey to Haleakalā National Park, home to the dormant volcano Haleakalā. The beauty of the volcanic landscapes, flora, and unique wildlife made it a one-of-a-kind experience. I took a hike along the trails and was left speechless by the ever-changing scenery as clouds swept across the summit.

Sunset at Wailea Beach

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Ivan_Sabo

As the day progressed, I hopped on another inter-island flight, this time to the Big Island of Hawaii. Landing in Kona, I went to Wailea Beach for a relaxing evening. The golden sands and the gentle lull of the waves were therapeutic. It also set the stage for a serene sunset that filled the sky with warm hues of orange and pink.

Evening Luau on the Big Island

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Alexandre.ROSA

I attended a traditional luau on the Big Island to get a real local experience in Hawaiian culture. The rhythmic beats of hula, the aroma of roasted pig, and the storytelling through dance showed me a glimpse of ancient Polynesian traditions.

The Bottom Line

Island-hopping in Hawaii is a journey through different landscapes, cultures, and flavors. Each island offers a unique slice of paradise, from Oahu’s vibrant city life to Maui’s upcountry charm and the Big Island’s cultural richness.

Tourist Information

hawaii.gov