Solo trip to Hawaii

Question

I am considering travelling to Hawaii by myself and looking for any tips/ideas. I did a search but many reviews are from years ago.

I’m a 50 year old female

Love relaxing and the beach.

Good food

Hikes but easy ones

Probably 7 days

Any island considered

Thank you in advance

Answer

A solo trip to Hawaii sounds like a wonderful way to relax and recharge! Hawaii is a fantastic destination for solo travelers, offering a mix of beautiful beaches, amazing food, and plenty of activities to suit different interests. Since you love relaxing, beach time, and easy hikes, here are some recommendations that should provide you with a peaceful and enjoyable experience:

Best Islands for Solo Travelers Each Hawaiian island offers something unique, so your choice will depend on the vibe you're looking for. Here's a quick breakdown of the islands and what they offer:

Maui: Known for its stunning beaches, upscale resorts, and laid-back atmosphere, Maui is great for a solo traveler who wants both relaxation and adventure. The island offers easy hikes like the Iao Needle or the Pipiwai Trail, as well as plenty of beach time at places like Wailea Beach and Makena Beach. You’ll also find excellent food, especially in Lahaina and Kihei.
Oahu: Oahu is more urbanized but offers a perfect balance of relaxation and activities. Waikiki is famous for its beaches, but you can also explore more serene spots like Lanikai Beach or Kailua. Easy hikes like Diamond Head and Makapu'u Point are fantastic for solo travelers. Oahu also has a vibrant food scene, with great restaurants in Honolulu and along the North Shore.
Kauai: Kauai is often called the "Garden Isle" and is known for its lush landscapes, quiet beaches, and tranquil vibe. It’s great for someone who enjoys nature, easy hikes, and beautiful coastal views. Easy hikes like the Waimea Canyon Trail and the Sleeping Giant Trail are great options. Hanalei Bay and Tunnels Beach are ideal spots for solo beach time.
The Big Island (Hawaii Island): For a more diverse experience, the Big Island offers everything from beaches to volcanoes. You can visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park or relax on the black sand beaches near Punalu'u. The island is less crowded than Maui or Oahu, which makes it a great choice for a peaceful solo getaway.

Relaxing Activities for Solo Travelers Hawaii has so many ways to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty at your own pace. Here are some ideas:

Beach Time: Hawaii is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Since you love relaxing and the beach, spend your days lounging on the sand, reading, or just enjoying the ocean. Consider visiting beaches like Wailea Beach (Maui), Lanikai Beach (Oahu), or Hanalei Bay (Kauai) for quiet moments by the water.
Spa Treatments: Many resorts in Hawaii offer world-class spa services. Treat yourself to a relaxing massage or a rejuvenating facial. A spa day can be the perfect way to unwind and recharge during your solo trip.
Food Adventures: Hawaii offers a vibrant food scene, especially in towns like Lahaina (Maui), Honolulu (Oahu), and Hilo (Big Island). Be sure to try poke bowls, loco moco, shave ice, and fresh seafood. Solo dining is very comfortable here, with many places offering outdoor seating and a laid-back atmosphere.

Easy Hikes and Nature Walks Since you enjoy hiking but prefer easy trails, Hawaii has several beautiful hikes that are accessible and offer amazing views:

Diamond Head Crater (Oahu): This is one of Oahu’s most famous hikes and is relatively short (about 1.5 miles round trip). It’s an easy-to-moderate hike with panoramic views of Honolulu and Waikiki at the top.
Waimea Canyon Lookout (Kauai): If you’re on Kauai, visiting Waimea Canyon is a must. The Waimea Canyon Lookout is an easy stop and gives you breathtaking views of the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific." For a more active day, you can try the Waimea Canyon Trail, which is easy to moderate and offers great views of the canyon.
Pipiwai Trail (Maui): Located in Haleakalā National Park, this 4-mile trail is moderate but well-maintained, offering views of bamboo forests and waterfalls along the way. It’s a peaceful and scenic hike for solo travelers.
Makapu'u Point Trail (Oahu): This is a paved, easy-to-moderate 2-mile hike that leads to stunning views of the ocean and the Makapu'u lighthouse. It’s a great choice for someone who wants an easy hike with beautiful scenery.

Things to Keep in Mind Hawaii is generally a safe place for solo travelers, but it’s always good to stay cautious and prepared:

Stay Hydrated: Hawaii’s weather can get hot, especially in summer, so make sure to drink plenty of water while you’re out exploring.
Rent a Car: Renting a car is highly recommended, especially if you want to explore different parts of the islands at your own pace. Most places in Hawaii are spread out, so having your own transportation gives you the flexibility to explore.
Respect Local Culture: Hawaiians are known for their hospitality, and respecting the local culture is important. Take the time to learn about Hawaiian history and traditions, and be mindful of local customs during your visit.

Sample 7-Day Itinerary If you're interested in a possible itinerary, here's a suggestion for a balanced solo trip:

Day 1: Arrive and relax at your hotel. Spend the evening at a local beach, watching the sunset.
Day 2: Enjoy a morning hike (Diamond Head or Makapu'u) followed by a relaxing afternoon at the beach. Have dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 3: Explore a new beach or coastal area. Treat yourself to a spa day or a wellness experience.
Day 4: Take a scenic drive or boat tour to see natural sights like volcanoes or waterfalls. Have a leisurely dinner at a local eatery.
Day 5: Go on a cultural tour, visit museums, or explore botanical gardens. Spend the evening at a restaurant with a view.
Day 6: Enjoy a full day at the beach or do a more moderate hike. Finish the day with a sunset dinner or cocktail.
Day 7: Relax before your flight, maybe with a final walk on the beach or a quiet morning in a cafe.

Ultimately, Hawaii offers a great balance of relaxation, adventure, and culture for solo travelers. Whether you're enjoying the peaceful beaches or taking an easy hike through lush landscapes, you'll find plenty to do and experience. Enjoy your trip!

Solo trip to Hawaii

More Hawaii (HI) Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions