
Honolulu, Oahu: Hawaii's vibrant capital city
Urban center with historical sites and modern amenities. Home to Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head, and Pearl Harbor. Blend of city amenities and natural beauty.
Explore Honolulu, Oahu vacation packages
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Paradise Found: Your Hawaiian Adventure Awaits From volcanic landscapes to pristine beaches, discover Hawaii's endless wonders with JetBlue Vacations exclusive packages and perks.
Hawaii's breathtaking islands offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences that have captivated travelers for generations. From cascading waterfalls and volcanic landscapes to pristine beaches and lush rainforests, these Pacific gems provide the ideal backdrop for adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. The welcoming spirit of aloha permeates every aspect of island life, creating an atmosphere of warmth and hospitality that keeps visitors returning year after year.
Honolulu, Oahu's vibrant capital, combines urban excitement with iconic beaches and historical sites. Kailua-Kona offers a more relaxed atmosphere with some of Hawaii's best snorkeling with vibrant coral reefs and abundant sea life. Maui, the Valley Isle, delivers dramatic landscapes from volcanic peaks to lush valleys and world-class resorts. Kauai, the Garden Isle, showcases nature at its most spectacular with the breathtaking Na Pali Coast and Waimea Canyon.
Each Hawaiian destination offers its own unique Hawaiian experience—from Honolulu's blend of city excitement and cultural landmarks to Kailua-Kona's abundant sea life and local vibe. Maui delivers dramatic contrasts with volcanic landscapes, resort areas, and charming towns, while Kauai showcases nature at its most spectacular with unprecedented biodiversity and natural wonders.
Hawaii enjoys warm, tropical weather year-round with temperatures ranging from 75-85°F across all destinations. Honolulu experience slightly more consistent conditions, while Maui features varied microclimates from sunny beaches to cooler upcountry areas. Kauai, the rainiest island, offers lush landscapes with wetter conditions on its north shore.
Book a JetBlue Vacations package to Hawaii to get the lowest JetBlue airfare and exclusive hotel savings. Enjoy perks like earlier boarding and a free inflight drink*. Plus, earn TrueBlue points & tiles while you’re at it.
Urban center with historical sites and modern amenities. Home to Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head, and Pearl Harbor. Blend of city amenities and natural beauty.
Explore Honolulu, Oahu vacation packages
Home to the famous Kona coffee region and historic sites like Hulihe'e Palace. Gateway to spectacular snorkeling, diving, and manta ray night swims. Perfect blend of charming downtown area with waterfront dining and activity options.
The Valley Isle with diverse landscapes Dramatic scenery from volcanic craters to lush valleys. World-class beaches and resort areas. Great for both adventure and relaxation.
Lush landscapes with dramatic mountains and canyons. Pristine beaches and stunning coastal views. Ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Feature | Honolulu, Oahu (City) | Kailua-Kona, Big Island (City) | Maui (Island) | Kauai (Island) |
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Best for | First-time visitors, shoppers, history buffs | Ocean enthusiasts, coffee lovers, astronomy buffs | Couples, luxury travelers, outdoor enthusiasts | Nature lovers, hikers, photographers |
Vibe | Urban, bustling, cosmopolita with beach access | Historic town, laid-back coastal living | Upscale, romantic, adventure-oriented | Natural, peaceful, undeveloped |
Beaches | Waikiki Beach, Ala Moana, Beach Park | Kua Bay, Magic Sands, Kahalu'u Beach Park | Kaanapali Beach, Wailea Beach, Makena | Poipu Beach, Hanalei Bay, Tunnels Beach |
Must-see attractions | Diamond Head, Pearl Harbor, Iolani Palace | Kona coffee farms, Manta ray night dive, Captain Cook monument | Haleakala Crater, Road to Hana, Lahaina | Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, Wailua Falls |
Ideal stay duration | 3-5 days | 4-5 days | 5-7 days | 4-6 days |
Getting around | Public buses, rideshares, walkable in Waikiki | Rental car essential; limited public transit | Rental car essential | Rental car essential |
Best time to visit | April-May and September-October for fewer crowds and pleasant weather. Enjoy temperatures from 75-85°F with limited rainfall and good beach conditions. | April-May and September-October for ideal weather, fewer crowds, and good visibility for water activities. Winter months (December-March) for whale watching. | April-May or September-October provides ideal weather and fewer crowds. For whale watching, visit January-March when humpbacks are abundant in Maui's waters. | June-September are best for calmer north shore waters and drier conditions. If visiting the north shore (Hanalei, Na Pali Coast), summer offers the best access and safety. |
JetBlue Vacations highlights | Flights from Boston and New York, centrally located hotels, city packages | Exclusive coffee tour packages, snorkeling excursion deals | Luxury resort partnerships, adventure excursions | Na Pali tours, rainforest adventure packages |
From Honolulu Airport (HNL) we recommend making your trip even easier by adding a rental car to your JetBlue Vacations package and save up to 35%. If you prefer not to drive, convenient transportation options from the airport include airport shuttles (around $16 per person), rideshare services like Uber or Lyft ($25-35), or taxis ($40-45). The public bus (TheBus, route #19 or #20) is the most economical option at about $3 per person but takes longer and has luggage restrictions.
From Kahului Airport (OGG) to Kaanapali/Lahaina area resorts, expect a 45-60 minute drive (about 30 miles) via Highway 380 to Highway 30. For Wailea/Kihei area resorts, the drive takes approximately 25-35 minutes (15-20 miles) via Highway 311. Drive times can increase significantly during rush hour (7-9am and 4-6pm). JetBlue Vacations allows your to add transportation options to your package, which can be particularly convenient after a long flight.
In Kailua, a rental car is highly recommended. Unlike Waikiki, Kailua has limited public transportation options, and many attractions are spread out. Having a car allows you to easily access Kailua's beautiful beaches, nearby hiking trails, and local establishments. It also gives you the freedom to explore other parts of Oahu at your own pace. Most accommodations in Kailua offer free parking, making a rental car even more convenient.
Month | Weather | Crowds | Special Events & Activities |
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January | Honolulu: 70-80°F, occasional rain Kailua-Kona: 65-820°F, brief showers with winter high surf Maui: 70-80°F, some rain in north/east areas Kauai: 70-80°F, rainier on north shore | Moderate-high in early January (holiday season), then moderate | Ka Molokai Makahiki Festival (Molokai) Sony Open (Honolulu, Oahu) |
February | Honolulu: 70-80°F, occasional showers Kailua-Kona: 65-82°F, brief showers with high winter surf Maui: 70-80°F, whales abundant Kauai: 70-80°F, north shore still rainy | Moderate, higher around Valentine's Day | Maui Whale Festival Great Aloha Run (Honolulu, Oahu) |
March | Honolulu: 70-82°F, decreasing rain Kailua-Kona: 66-85°F, Increasingly dry and warm Maui: 70-82°F, good whale watching Kauai: 70-80°F, transitioning to drier season | Moderate, higher during spring break weeks | Honolulu Festival (Oahu) Prince Kuhio Celebration (statewide) |
April | Honolulu: 72-83°F, drier Kailua-Kona: 66-85°F, increasingly dry and warm Maui: 72-83°F, drier in resort areas Kauai: 72-83°F, transitioning to summer | Low to moderate, good shoulder season | Merrie Monarch Festival (Big Island but affects all islands) East Maui Taro Festival |
May | Honolulu: 73-85°F, mostly dry Kailua-Kona: 66-85°F, excellent for water activities Maui: 73-85°F, excellent weather Kauai: 73-85°F, drier on north shore | Low except for Memorial Day weekend | Lei Day (May 1, statewide) Lantern Floating Hawaii (Honolulu, Oahu) |
June | Honolulu: 75-87°F, dry Kailua-Kona: 70-88°F, very little rainfall Maui: 75-87°F, dry and sunny Kauai: 75-87°F, excellent conditions | Moderate, beginning of summer season | King Kamehameha Day Celebration (statewide) Kapalua Wine & Food Festival (Maui) |
July | Honolulu: 75-88°F, very dry Kailua-Kona: 70-88°F, very little rainfall Maui: 75-88°F, hot and dry Kauai: 75-88°F, ideal conditions | High, peak summer season | Koloa Plantation Days (Kauai) Prince Lot Hula Festival (Oahu) |
August | Honolulu: 75-89°F, hottest month Kailua-Kona: 70-88°F, hottest periods with warm nights Maui: 75-89°F, hot with clear skies Kauai: 75-89°F, perfect beach weather | High until mid-month, then moderate | Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament (Big Island) Made in Hawaii Festival (Honolulu, Oahu) |
September | Honolulu: 75-88°F, excellent Kailua-Kona: 72-86°F, pleasant Maui: 75-88°F, perfect condition Kauai: 75-88°F, occasional brief showers returning | Low, excellent shoulder season | Aloha Festivals (statewide) Kauai Mokihana Festival |
October | Honolulu: 74-87°F, mostly dry Kailua-Kona: 72-86°F, pleasant Maui: 74-87°F, excellent condition Kauai: 74-87°F, beginning of wetter season | Low to moderate | Hawaii Food & Wine Festival (multiple islands) Maui Ukulele Festival |
November | Honolulu: 73-84°F, increasing rain Kailua-Kona: 79-83°F, brief showers Maui: 73-84°F, start of winter rains Kauai: 73-84°F, wetter on north shore | Low until Thanksgiving week | Kona Coffee Cultural Festival (Big Island) Vans Triple Crown of Surfing (North Shore Oahu) |
December | Honolulu: 72-82°F, some rain Kailua-Kona: 79-83°F, more frequent brief showers Maui: 72-82°F, wetter in north/east Kauai: 72-82°F, rainier especially north | Low early month, extremely high during holidays | Whale watching season (Big Island) Honolulu Marathon Honolulu City Lights New Year's Eve celebrations |
Explore the best of both worlds—vibrant city life and laid-back island vibes. Enjoy shopping, nightlife, and iconic Waikiki Beach in Honolulu, then unwind with Maui’s stunning beaches, waterfalls, and scenic drives along the Road to Hana.
Destinations: Honolulu, O'ahu (HNL) and Kahului, Maui (OGG)
Recommended Hotel: Hilton Waikiki Beach
Day 1: Aloha, Oahu- Arrive in Honolulu and check into the resort. Unwind with a sunset stroll and fresh poke bowl on Waikiki Beach.
Day 2: Iconic Sights- Visit Pearl Harbor and hike Diamond Head, then enjoy an oceanside dinner before your island hop.
Day 3: Maui Arrival- Fly to Maui and check into Resort. Spend the afternoon relaxing on Wailea Beach or by the infinity pool.
Day 4: Road to Hana- Take a full-day adventure along the Road to Hana, with stops at waterfalls, lava tubes, and black-sand beaches (guided tour bookable in the booking flow).
Day 5: Final Paradise Moments- Enjoy a beachfront breakfast, explore Lahaina Town, and depart from Maui feeling refreshed and sun-kissed.
Start your journey with Kauai’s lush landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and outdoor adventures like kayaking or hiking Waimea Canyon. Then head to the Big Island for black-sand beaches, volcano exploration, and stargazing at Mauna Kea. Add guided tours, outdoor excursions, and local experiences right in the booking path.
Destinations: Lihue, Kauai (LIH) and Kailua-Kona, Big Island (KOA)
Recommended Hotel: Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu, Autograph Collection
Day 1: Arrive in Kauai- Land in Lihue and check into resort. Take a dip in the oceanfront pool and enjoy your first night with tropical drinks.
Day 2: Canyon & Coast- Explore Waimea Canyon, then join a sunset sail along the breathtaking Napali Coast.
Day 3: Water & Wonder- Paddle the Wailua River to Fern Grotto and unwind at Hanalei Bay before island-hopping to your next adventure.
Day 4: Big Island Bound- Fly to Kailua-Kona and check into the resort. Settle in with a spa treatment or evening beachfront dinner.
Day 5: Volcano Day- Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park’s craters, lava tubes, and steam vents with a guided tour.
Day 6: Swim with Manta Rays- Spend the day snorkeling at Two Step, then experience an unforgettable manta ray night snorkel.
Day 7: Sunset Farewell- Visit Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau for a dose of culture, then stargaze from Mauna Kea before heading home the next morning.
Perfect for couples, this combo blends ultra-luxury and serenity in Lanai with Maui’s picturesque beaches and world-class dining. Enjoy secluded escapes, spa days, and sunset cruises in two of Hawaii’s most romantic settings.
Destinations: Lanai (via OGG) and Kahului, Maui (OGG)
Day 1: Secluded Arrival- Arrive in Lanai via ferry and check into the hotel. Spend the day exploring the resort and relaxing.
Day 2: Off the Grid- Explore the Garden of the Gods and Shipwreck Beach, then enjoy a private picnic overlooking the Pacific.
Day 3: Island Indulgence- Go horseback riding or book a 4x4 Jeep tour through Lanai’s remote landscapes, followed by a starlit dinner.
Day 4: Off to Maui- Ferry to Maui and check into resort. Unwind with poolside drinks and dinner at Morimoto Maui.
Day 5: Ocean Escape- Snorkel Molokini Crater or head out on a seasonal whale watch.
Day 6: Upcountry Escape- Take a scenic drive to Kula for wine tasting, lavender farms, and paniolo (cowboy) vibes.
Day 7: Beach Bliss- Spend the day soaking up sun on Wailea Beach or book a cabana at the resort.
Day 8: Lahaina Culture Day- Visit Lahaina’s historic sites and art galleries, and shop for local crafts and gifts.
Day 9: Sunset Celebration- Treat yourselves to a beachfront couples' massage followed by a sunset cruise with live music.
Day 10: Aloha, For Now- Wrap up your romantic escape with a beachfront brunch before departing from Kahului.
Just 30 minutes from most Honolulu hotels, this iconic volcanic crater offers a moderate 1.8-mile round trip hike with panoramic views of Waikiki from the summit. Learn more.
A protected marine life conservation area with calm, clear waters perfect for snorkeling among colorful fish and coral. Reservations required; closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Learn more.
Just south of Kailua-Kona, this marine sanctuary offers some of Hawaii's best snorkeling with vibrant coral reefs and abundant sea life, accessible by boat tour or adventurous hike.
Drive from Kailua-Kona to witness breathtaking sunsets and world-class stargazing at nearly 14,000 feet, home to international observatories and cultural significance.
A massive shield volcano offering spectacular sunrise views above the clouds at 10,023 feet. Reservations required for sunrise viewing; temperatures can be 30°F cooler than at sea level. Learn more.
A scenic 64-mile journey featuring waterfalls, tropical landscapes, and black sand beaches. Allow a full day for the trip and start early to enjoy multiple stops along the way. Learn more.
Towering emerald cliffs and cascading waterfalls accessible by boat, helicopter, or the challenging Kalalau Trail. Book tours well in advance during peak season. Learn more.
Known as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," this 14-mile-long marvel features stunning red, brown and green hues. Multiple lookout points accessible by car with hiking trails of varying difficulty. Learn more.
Hawaii's beaches offer some of the world's most stunning coastal experiences, with each Hawaiian destination featuring its own unique waterfront charm. Honolulu's Waikiki Beach provides energetic surf breaks and vibrant atmosphere, while Kailua-Kona boasts powdery white sand beaches perfect for kayaking and windsurfing. Maui's diverse shorelines range from calm protected bays to dramatic surfing spots, while Kauai's beaches offer everything from family-friendly swimming to secluded natural beauty.
Maui and Kauai offer some of Hawaii's most dramatic natural landscapes, from dormant volcanoes to lush rainforests and breathtaking coastal cliffs. Meanwhile, diverse terrain provides both challenging hikes and accessible natural wonders within easy reach of Honolulu and Kailua-Kona. Each island presents unique ecosystems with distinctive flora and fauna, from the moonlike summit of Haleakalā to the jungle valleys of Kauai's interior.
From ancient traditions to the rich multicultural influences that have shaped modern Hawaii, cultural experiences across JetBlue Vacations's destinations provide meaningful connections to the islands' heritage. Honolulu offers the most diverse historical sites, while Maui balances cultural attractions with modern amenities, while all islands provide opportunities to engage with Hawaiian music, dance, food, and crafts.
Hawaii's culinary scene reflects its multicultural heritage, from traditional Hawaiian dishes to Asian-Pacific fusion cuisine. Honolulu offers the most diverse dining options, from high-end restaurants to local food trucks, while Maui is known for farm-to-table experiences that showcase local ingredients. Kailua-Kona offers local farmers markets and Kauai's agricultural bounty supports a growing food scene emphasizing fresh, local ingredients.
Hello, goodbye, love: Aloha (ah-LOW-hah)
Welcome, come in: E komo mai (eh KOH-moh my)
Good morning: Aloha kakahiaka (ah-LOW-hah kah-kah-HEE-ah-kah)
Good afternoon: Aloha 'auinalā (ah-LOW-hah ah-WEE-nah-LAH)
Good evening: Aloha ahiahi (ah-LOW-hah ah-hee-AH-hee)
Until we meet again/see you later: A hui hou (ah HOO-ee ho)
Thank you: Mahalo (mah-HAH-low)
No problem/You're welcome: 'A'ole pilikia (ah-OH-lay pee-lee-KEE-ah)
How are you?: Pehea 'oe? (peh-HAY-ah oh-eh)
I'm fine, thank you: Maika'i nō, mahalo (my-KAH-ee noh, mah-HAH-low)
Traditional Hawaiian cuisine centers around staples like taro (grown extensively in Kauai's Hanalei Valley), fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and meats often cooked in underground ovens called imu. These authentic flavors are beautifully showcased in both high-end restaurants and casual local spots throughout Honolulu, Kailua-Kona, Maui, and Kauai.
Dining costs vary widely across Hawaii's destinations. Budget meals (plate lunches, food trucks) typically range from $10-15 per person. Mid-range restaurants average $20-40 per person. Fine dining, especially at resorts in Maui and Honolulu, can exceed $100 per person, particularly for oceanfront dining.
Hawaii produces exceptional coffee (particularly from Kona), macadamia nuts, tropical fruits (pineapple, papaya, mango, lilikoi), and honey. Look for farmers markets in each destination for the freshest local products.
Tipping follows mainland US customs (15-20%). 'Talk story' (friendly conversation) with servers and locals is welcomed and expected. Dress codes are generally relaxed except at high-end restaurants, where resort casual is typically acceptable.
Traveling to Hawaii is an exciting adventure, get coverage for unforeseen events such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost baggage. With Allianz's 24/7 assistance, you can explore Hawaii's islands with confidence, knowing that support is just a phone call away.
Hawaii is generally a safe destination with excellent healthcare facilities, but certain precautions will help ensure your visit to Honolulu, Kailua, Maui, and Kauai remains trouble-free. Understanding ocean conditions, sun exposure risks, and local wildlife considerations is particularly important when visiting these diverse island destinations.
Emergency Contact Information | Numbers |
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Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Ambulance) | Dial 911 |
Non-Emergency Police | Honolulu (Oahu): (808) 529-3111 Maui County: (808) 244-6400 Kauai County: (808) 241-1711 |
Natural Disaster Information: | Hawaii Emergency Management Agency: (808) 733-4300 Pacific Tsunami Warning Center: (808) 689-8207 National Weather Service (Hawaii): (808) 973-5286 |
Beach Safety: | Ocean Safety (Oahu): (808) 723-7800 Ocean Safety (Maui): (808) 270-7990 Ocean Safety (Kauai): (808) 241-4984 |
Tourist Assistance: | Hawaii Tourism Authority Visitor Information: 1-800-GOHAWAII (1-800-464-2924) Hawaii Visitors Bureau: (808) 923-1811 |
Kauai's rainy season (November through March) primarily affects the north shore areas like Hanalei and Princeville, where brief but intense showers can occur throughout the day. Despite this, temperatures remain warm (70-80°F), and rain showers typically pass quickly, giving way to sunshine. The south shore areas like Poipu stay relatively dry year-round, making them good alternatives during this period. Visitors to Kauai during the rainy season should pack a light rain jacket, quick-dry clothing, and waterproof shoes for hiking.
Maui and Honolulu have similar temperature ranges (75-85°F year-round), but Maui experiences more microclimates due to its diverse topography. South and west Maui (Wailea, Kihei, Lahaina) are typically drier and can feel hotter than Honolulu, while Upcountry Maui (Kula, Makawao) is noticeably cooler by 10-15 degrees. Maui also tends to be less humid than Honolulu, which can make even warm temperatures more comfortable. Both destinations require good sun protection, but Maui's stronger UV index, particularly at higher elevations like Haleakala, demands extra precaution.
Kailua-Kona enjoys a sunny, dry climate year-round thanks to the rain shadow effect of Mauna Loa volcano. Average temperatures range from 75-85°F, while Hilo on the east side receives significantly more rainfall. Pack accordingly if planning to explore both sides of the island.
Kauai offers the most diverse and spectacular hiking experiences among JetBlue's destinations. From accessible Waimea Canyon paths to the challenging Kalalau Trail along Na Pali Coast, the island caters to all skill levels. Maui follows with excellent trails at Haleakala and Waihee Ridge. On Oahu, Diamond Head and the Lanikai Pillbox hike near Kailua provide great views with moderate difficulty. Serious hikers should prioritize Kauai, where the lush landscapes create unparalleled trail experiences.
Yes, especially for popular authentic experiences like Old Lahaina Luau on Maui or Paradise Cove in Honolulu, which often sell out weeks in advance during peak seasons. JetBlue Vacations can secure reservations as part of your package. For last-minute options, consider hotel-based luaus which sometimes have better availability. Most luaus run only 2-3 times weekly, so advance planning ensures you won't miss this quintessential Hawaiian experience.
Both have merits. Beach snorkeling at Honolulu's Hanauma Bay or Kauai's Poipu Beach offers convenience and affordability. However, boat tours provide access to offshore locations like Molokini Crater (Maui) or Kauai's Na Pali Coast, featuring different marine life and expert guidance. Tours include quality equipment and instruction, making them ideal for beginners. JetBlue Vacations partners with reputable operators at each destination and can arrange bookings with your package.
Book helicopter tours over Kauai's Na Pali Coast or Maui 3-4 weeks ahead during peak seasons and 1-2 weeks during shoulder seasons. The same applies to sunrise at Haleakala (Maui), whale watching (December-April), and coveted restaurant reservations like Mama's Fish House. Last-minute cancellations do occur, so check with JetBlue Vacations or your hotel concierge about availability even if you're already in Hawaii.
Yes! JetBlue Vacations lets you bundle your flight, hotel, and even island activities into one seamless package—plus, you'll earn TrueBlue points on the full purchase.
JetBlue offers direct flights to Hawaii from the major East Coast cities like New York (JFK), Boston (BOS), and Fort Lauderdale (FLL) through select airline partners—for example, you can book a Boston-to-Honolulu route with a seamless partner connection. If you're departing from the West Coast, flights have to be combined with a JetBlue segment (e.g., Boston to San Francisco on JetBlue, then San Francisco to Hawaii with a partner airline). All flight connections are built into your JetBlue Vacations package for a smooth booking experience.
Absolutely! Through our partnership with Viator, you can add excursions—like snorkeling, hiking tours, and cultural experiences—directly in the booking path.
JetBlue Vacations packages offer more than just convenience—you get access to exclusive hotel perks like resort credits, 24/7 customer support, and the ability to earn TrueBlue points on your entire vacation, not just your flight. It’s a smarter, more rewarding way to book your Hawaii getaway.