10 day first timer trip to Oahu and Maui

Question

Looking for advice for planning my family’s summer trip for our first time to Hawaii. We’re flexible on when we are going, we were thinking May. Any thoughts? Looking to go in summer but maybe not at peak summer tourism time. Also wanting to know if 10 days will be enough time to go to both islands. We’re all 21+, any must see things to do while we are there? Definitely wanting to go to Pearl Harbor, beaches, hikes, snorkeling, etc. Any restaurant tips? Thanks in advance!

Answer

It’s great that you’re planning your first trip to Hawaii! With 10 days, you can definitely explore both Oahu and Maui, though you’ll need to plan your time carefully to make the most of your visit. Here are some tips to help you plan a fantastic trip:

Best Time to Visit:

If you're aiming for summer but want to avoid peak tourist crowds, consider traveling in late May or early June. This is just before the school summer break, so you’ll avoid the heaviest crowds, especially at popular tourist spots. Hawaii’s weather is pleasant year-round, so either timing will offer great opportunities for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

10 Days: Oahu + Maui

10 days is a good amount of time to explore both islands, but it will be a bit tight. I recommend splitting your time with 4 days in Oahu and 6 days in Maui, or vice versa. Keep in mind that inter-island flights are quick (about 30-45 minutes), but they can still eat into your day. Here’s a potential breakdown:

Oahu (4 days): Spend time exploring Honolulu, Pearl Harbor, and Waikiki Beach. You’ll also want to visit the North Shore for its iconic beaches and surf culture.
Maui (6 days): Enjoy the beaches in Wailea or Ka’anapali, hike in Haleakala National Park, and experience the scenic Road to Hana. You could also relax at quieter beaches and explore small towns like Paia.

Must-See Attractions:

Pearl Harbor: This is a must for history buffs. Spend a few hours exploring the USS Arizona Memorial and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum.
Beaches: Oahu’s Waikiki Beach is iconic, but there are other stunning beaches on both islands like Lanikai Beach (Oahu) and Wailea Beach (Maui). Snorkeling spots include Hanauma Bay (Oahu) and Molokini Crater (Maui).
Hiking: Don’t miss Diamond Head on Oahu for a short but rewarding hike with great views of Honolulu. On Maui, hike in Haleakala National Park to see the crater, or take the scenic Pipiwai Trail to Waimoku Falls in Hana.
Road to Hana: A scenic drive on Maui that takes you through lush rainforests, waterfalls, and dramatic coastlines. Be sure to plan a full day for this excursion.
Snorkeling: Hanauma Bay (Oahu) is one of the best spots for snorkeling, with abundant marine life and clear waters. For Maui, Molokini Crater offers excellent snorkeling opportunities, especially for seeing marine life like sea turtles.

Restaurant Tips:

Oahu:
- Ala Moana Center: Great for dining and shopping with lots of variety.
- Alan Wong’s Honolulu: A famous spot for upscale Hawaiian cuisine.
- Marukame Udon: Casual spot for tasty udon noodles.
Maui:
- Mama’s Fish House: A beloved spot for fresh seafood, located in Paia.
- Lahaina Grill: Known for fine dining with a focus on local ingredients.
- Paia Fish Market: Great for casual, delicious seafood.

Other Tips:

Transportation: Renting a car is a must on both islands for exploring. Oahu has great public transportation, but renting a car will give you more flexibility.
Weather: Pack light, breathable clothing for warm days, but bring layers for cooler evenings (especially on Maui at higher elevations like Haleakala).
Sun Protection: The sun is strong in Hawaii, so don’t forget sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Be mindful of reef-safe sunscreen to protect the ocean’s ecosystems.

Final Thoughts: With your 10-day itinerary, you’ll be able to hit the highlights on both Oahu and Maui, though it will be a busy trip. Be sure to allow for some relaxation time, too, so you can fully enjoy the beauty of Hawaii!

Enjoy your adventure, and aloha!

10 day first timer trip to Oahu and Maui

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