editor There are few better places to explore as a family than Hawaii. And one of the best ways to go about it is to have a road trip. Traveling by road gives you a chance to really look around the islands and absorb everything Hawaii has to offer.
So, if you’re all set to imbibe the aloha spirit, here’s a quick guide to help you plan your family road trip in the Paradise of the Pacific!
Pick an Island
Strictly speaking, you don’t need to pick any one island. All of them are excellent spots to holiday with their own family-friendly attractions and activities. Choosing any one is simply a way to allow you to avoid island-hopping and all of the ensuing packing and unpacking that involves.
1. Oahu
Oahu is well-known for the number of family-friendly resorts and hotels it has, where you’ll easily find accommodation for your entire group. One of its best-known attractions is Waikiki Beach, just on the outskirts of Honolulu. You can go souvenir shopping, learn to surf, or enjoy one of the many amazing restaurants nearby.
Oahu is also a relatively small island. With Honolulu as your home base, you could easily tour a bunch of nearby spots, including Waimea Valley, Laniakea Beach, and one of the many hiking trails the island has to offer.
2. Maui
Maui is a fantastic place to enjoy nature and experience the outside world. There are opportunities for snorkelling and whale-watching. While underwater, you could admire the beautiful coral reefs and the colorful sea life. You can also do the latter at the Maui Ocean Center, which happens to be the largest living tropical reef aquarium in the West.
In general, Maui has some excellent beaches, including the striking black sand beaches at Wai’anapanapa State Park. Other interesting spots on the island include Haleakalā National Park and the picturesque road to Hana. The latter is a must if you’re road-tripping in Hawaii.
3. Big Island
The Big Island, or the Island of Hawaii, is the biggest in the Aloha State. It’s a pretty diverse place as well. It has everything from huge snow-capped mountains like Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa to abundant rainforests along the Kīlauea Volcano and Hāmākua Coast.
If you’re looking to do a really long, immersive road trip, this is the island for you. In fact, you could even arrive at and depart from different sides of the island, considering that one-way car rental agreements are fairly common there. Explore attractions like Volcanoes National Park, Akaka Falls, Hilo Farmers’ Market, Nahuku Lava Tube, Kailua-Kona in the west, and more.
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4. Kauai
Kauai is often a favorite for repeat visitors to Hawaii. It boasts incredible landscapes with imposing mountains, beautiful waterfalls, crystal-clear waters, and plenty of fun family activities to do. It can also feel a little more untouched and less touristy than perhaps some of the other islands.
Check out the Na Pali Coast and the amazing sights it offers. Consider going on a boat cruise while you’re there to appreciate Kauai at leisure. Much of Kauai is unreachable by land, but some of the few places that are include the Limahuli Garden & Preserve, Hanakapiai Beach, Hanakapiai Falls, and Hanalei Bay for the amazing sunsets.
Car Rental Tips
1. Book Your Rental Online
Car rentals in Hawaii can get expensive depending on which agency you use — certainly more so than on the mainland. Booking online allows you to check out several providers and benefit from a number of online discounts on offer. You should also book as far in advance as possible, as the rates may increase in response to demand.
2. Be Smart About the Car You Choose
You’ll want something with enough space for you, your kids, and all the essential gear you plan on bringing with you. You could choose an SUV or, better yet, a 4×4 if you plan on an excursion such as to the summit of Mauna Kea on the Big Island.
3. Beware of Extra Expenses
Providers may often try to saddle you with unnecessary expenses, such as booking fees, prepayments, high refueling rates, and more. Choose a rental company that is flexible and willing to work with you to improve your road trip experience.
4. Choose Your Insurance Wisely
While on your trip, you’ll want to remain protected against accidents. car break-ins, and the like. It’s a good idea to be insured, but you don’t necessarily have to accept the first offer made by your rental car company. You may want to check with the insurance agent for your personal vehicles and see if you’re covered. Your credit card company may also have some offers for you to choose from.
Hawaii is hands-down one of the best vacation spots for families. And a road trip is one of the best ways to go about it. It lets you travel at your own pace and really immerse yourself in the local culture. Make sure you research your car rental companies. Whether you’re looking for a jeep rental on Oahu, an SUV on the Big Island, or a more compact car for a smaller group, you can find it with the right provider.
