by Scott Laird
Last updated: 7:00 AM ET, Wed January 7, 2026
Mark
Twain once called Hawai‘i
“the loveliest fleet of islands that lies anchored in any ocean.” Hawai‘i is a
destination like none other, with unique culture and some of the world’s most
famous views, but the state’s tourism industry faces slow recovery. Affordable
housing concerns have many island counties limiting vacation rentals.
Maui’s
tourism recovery remains steady, but visitor numbers are still down compared to
before the 2023
Lahaina fires. While much of the island is open for business and Lahaina’s
recovery and rebuilding continue, many island residents still face trauma and
uncertainty, attempting to make clear the message that the island is still open
and welcoming for visitors, but that they must visit mindfully, demonstrating
care and concern for the local community.
Elsewhere
in the Aloha State, tourism continues, with many travelers continuing to visit
for the state for the first time, try new destinations if they’ve already
visited, or make annual migrations to the favorite haunts they’ve been enjoying
for decades. Costs have steadily risen since the pandemic, making an affordable
vacation out of reach for many out-of-state visitors and in-state travelers
visiting friends and family or taking vacations on neighboring islands.
Throughout
its history, Hawai‘i has drawn visitors with its warm Aloha Spirit, distinctive
experiences that can’t be duplicated anywhere else, and diverse the natural
beauty across its extraordinary islands.
Read
on for some of the top spots in Hawai‘i for travelers in 2026.
Best
Destinations in Hawaii
Each
of the Hawaiian Islands offers a distinctive personality—many with features
emblematic of those islands. The Nāpali Coast (best explored by air or sea) is
only on Kauai. Lē‘ahi (Diamond Head) on O‘ahu is one of the world’s most famous
oceanfront vistas, with the urban tourist district of Waikīkī nestled at its
feet. The volcanic crater of Haleakalā on Maui feels more like the surface of
the moon than anywhere on Earth, and the Island of Hawai‘i’s active volcanoes
are the only ones like them in the United States.
Resort
areas are also treasured by visitors on each island. Some island counties, like
Kaua‘i, have been careful to designate specific resort areas for development to
prevent the tourism industry from creeping into every neighborhood across the
island, and other islands have taken similar measures. Visitors head to the
Po‘ipū Beach region on Kaua‘i’s south coast for sunshine and serene beaches. On
O‘ahu, it’s the resort areas of Ko Olina and Turtle Bay that draw visitors
seeking respite from the very urban Waikīkī. On Maui, the areas of Hāna and
Kapalua are known for their slower pace and cultural significance, and the
scattered resorts along Hawai‘i’s Kohala Coast draw visitors with scenic lava
rock waterfronts.
Each
of these destinations is revered and celebrated in mele (song) and hula (dance)
traditions that have evolved as Native Hawaiians, joined in Hawai‘i over the
centuries by settlers from across the Pacific Rim, have melded a distinctive
culture rooted in the past.
Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head, Honolulu, Hawaii. (Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/tomas del amo)
Best
Attractions in Hawaii
Hawai‘i
has plenty of attractions. There’s rarely a luau far away (choose from a
traditional mid-century style luau at Toa Luau at Waimea Valley on O‘ahu or opt for a more contemporary luau rooted in
stories of the local land at the Feast at Mōkapu at Andaz Maui).
To
skip the meal and just go for the show, more modern performance rooted in the
ancient story of Polynesian migration to Hawai’i, check out the new Cirque du Soleil show ‘Auana, the first resident
Cirque du Soleil show in Hawai‘i. Performing five nights a week at the
Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel, tickets can be purchased up to a year in
advance.
Cirque du Soleil ‘Auana is the company's first resident show in Hawaii. (Photo Credit: Cirque du Soleil)
Proximity
to attractions, however, isn’t always the best way to choose an accommodation.
Instead, do a vibe check when selecting a region to stay and play in, bearing
in mind that many of the islands are small and easily navigable.
On Kaua‘i, the most centrally located lodging is on the Coconut Coast (the expansive pool
at Sheraton Kaua‘i Coconut Beach is a hot spot),
but the most luscious sunsets tend to be on the island’s south shore (try the Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i or Whaler’s Cove Resort, where the sunrise are also spectacular) On O‘ahu’s
sleepier north shore, there are spectacular sunset views at the sumptuous new Ritz-Carlton O‘ahu, Turtle Bay.
During
the winter season, a popular attraction in Hawai‘i is whale-watching, which can
be done from any of the islands, generally from November to April. However, the
humpback whales tend to favor the channels between Maui and Lāna‘i. Departing
from Mā‘alaea, Maui, Pacific Whale Foundation eco-tours get visitors
up close with the gentle giants of the Pacific.
December through April is humpback whale season in Hawaii, during which the massive mammals visit the islands to breed and calve. (Photo Credit: Joe West/Hawaii Tourism Authority)
Must-See 2026 Events in Hawaii
Hawai’i
is known for events throughout the year. The Lunar New Year is particularly well-observed in Honolulu’s Chinatown in
February. In April, the 63rd Annual Merrie Monarch Festival—the pinnacle event of which is a world-renowned hula
competition—takes place in Hilo in early April. Hula fans can also enjoy the
annual Prince Lot Hula Festival in May, for utterly
local flavor. In June, King Kamehameha Day celebrations are held throughout the
state.
July
and August Bring Obon celebrations in the Japanese-American communities on all
the islands. In October, both the Hawaii International Film Festival and the Hawaii Food and Wine Festival (O’ahu, Maui, and Island of Hawai’i) are top draws.
Here
are some other events planned for 2026:
Merrie Monarch Festival Broadcast in Hilo (Photo Credit: Hawai'i Tourism Authority)
Best
Places for Families in Hawaii
On
O’ahu, Disney’s Aulani Resort in the Ko Olina Resort
development is a top spot, but as a destination virtually the entire Aloha
State is well-suited for families—particularly those with young children—with
tranquil beaches kissed by gentle surf, family-friendly luau and hula shows, and
a culture that has long revered children.
Younger
travelers may also enjoy the expansive pools and lagoons at Waikiki’s Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach
Resort, or
the legendary waterslide at Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa. On the Island of
Hawai’i, there’s a lazy river and dolphin lagoon at Hilton Waikoloa Village. Many big-name resort
brands, like Westin, Hyatt, Sheraton, Four Seasons, and Ritz-Carlton, operate kids'
clubs at each of their Hawai‘i properties.
On
Maui, The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua offers Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment activities for guests
over five years of age. Kids will also enjoy the all-ages activities at Paradise Cove Luau on O’ahu or dedicated kids programming at the Bishop Museum.
Families
will also appreciate the additional space afforded by a condo hotel property.
These types of properties offer residential-style accommodations with full
kitchens, laundry facilities, and expansive living spaces with multiple
bedrooms. They can also be a more ethical option than vacation rentals in homes
that could otherwise be rented on the local housing market; condo hotels are
zoned specifically for tourism activity.
Many
of the island resorts offer residential-style units belonging to major
hospitality brands such as Marriott, Sheraton or Hilton—many of these are sold
as hotel rooms or timeshares, and some are even attached to hotel resorts so
guests can enjoy the amenities. There are also homegrown condo-hotel brands
such as Outrigger and Castle with properties on each
of the islands.
On
Kaua‘i, Whaler’s Cove offers a prime
oceanfront position on the island’s south shore with spectacular views, a pool
and community grills. The resort will also stock the fridge with groceries for
guests prior to arrival for a nominal fee. On the island’s North Shore, try Hanalei Colony Resort.
On
Maui, try The Whaler in Ka’anapali or Wailea Point in Wailea.
Waikolohe Valley at Disney's Aulani Resort (Photo via Disney Aulani)
Best
Places for Couples in Hawaii
Couples
can enjoy extra quiet interludes at the adults-only pool at The Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea or the super-secluded rooms and
suites at the sister property The Four Seasons Resort Lanai—many of which have views of Haleakalā on neighboring Maui.
Couples
wanting a longer stay with more condo-like amenities and a distinct taste of
Old Hawai‘i will like the oceanfront cottage accommodations on the west side of
Kaua’i at Waimea Plantation Cottages. These fully-equipped
units are converted historic plantation cottages that were moved to the site
from various locations around Kaua‘I, and many of the cottages are over a
hundred years old! Couples will also enjoy the eco-friendly Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i—perhaps booking a pool
day in one of their new pool cabanas.
On
Hawai’i Island, hidden away on Kahuwai Bay, Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort sits on the grounds of
an ancient fishing village, with some units perched just above the crashing
surf with supreme sunset views. Sunset views also abound at Fairmont Orchid, where couples seeking extra pampering can indulge in the
newly renovated Fairmont Gold level accommodations, with daily food and
beverage presentations in a recently renovated ocean view lounge.
Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, Hawaii. (Photo Credit: Four Seasons)
Best
Places for Group Travel in Hawaii
Hawai’i’s
larger resorts are well-suited for large groups—from multi-generational family
gatherings to corporate retreats. Many resorts offer a variety of
accommodations, ranging from standard to suite to club-level. Larger resorts
also offer the benefit of expansive function spaces and restaurants sizable
enough to accommodate larger groups.
The
largest hotel properties can be found on O‘ahu, but there are resorts large
enough to accommodate significant-sized groups on each of the Hawaiian Islands.
Cruises
can also be a good option for groups in Hawai‘i. Norwegian Cruise Line is the only cruise
company operating big ship cruises entirely within the Hawaiian Islands (other
cruise lines, with ships registered outside the U.S., can only call in Hawai‘i
on voyages that include a foreign port call). NCL’s Pride of America offers
seven-day roundtrip sailings from Honolulu calling at Maui, Island of Hawai‘i
and Kaua‘i.
Many
excursion operators can also do private charters for incentive groups, ranging
from whale watching to sport fishing.
For
Meetings and Convention Travel, read the full update from the Hawai‘i
Convention & Visitors Bureau Meet Hawai‘i portal.
Norwegian Cruise Line's Pride of America sailing in Hawaii. (Photo Credit: Norwegian Cruise Line)
Best
Places for Solo Travel in Hawaii
Hawai’i
is a fine destination for solo travelers. Whether they’re seeking the exciting
nightlife of Waikiki or good old-fashioned seclusion in Hana in East Maui,
there are accommodations and attractions for all. While there aren’t specific
locales in Hawai‘i that are particularly well-suited for solo travel, it’s
worth noting that solos seeking vibrant nightlife will generally only find it
on the island of O‘ahu—the scenes on neighbor islands tend to pack it in early.
Solo
travelers planning to hike, swim, or go to the beach on their own should leave
a detailed itinerary with their hotel or a friend at home. It also makes sense
to invest in a waterproof key and phone pouch so they don’t leave their
valuables in their car or on the beach while swimming. Solo travelers may find
the most value in oceanfront hotels, resorts or condo properties, so they can
simply leave valuables in the room while enjoying time on the beach.
Lahaina Harbor, Maui, Hawaii. (Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/RandyJay)
Best
Foodie Destinations in Hawaii
The
island with the most varied dining options is most certainly O‘ahu, where
gastronomic kitchens at Halekulani and The Kahala Hotel & Resort offer dishes that focus on the latest culinary techniques
paired with fresh island ingredients. Across the islands, Merriman’s restaurants focus on sustainability, producing the world’s
first low-methane-emission goat cheese and developing a special low-emission
seaweed for use in their cooking (their mai tai with house-made macadamia nut
orgeat and honey passionfruit foam is also a longtime favorite).
Non-resort
areas in Hawai’i are also good spots for tasting culinary innovation. Tasting Kauai does a food tour of
downtown Lihue every Saturday. On Maui, Kahului’s noodle shops and taco trucks
have started getting attention, in addition to casual favorites like Pa’ia Fishmarket and Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop.
On
Hawai‘i Island, visitors can experience authentic Hawaiian culture during a
monthly regenerative eco-tour, learning traditional foodways and preparation
methods at Imu Mea ‘Ai in Pahoa. Hawai‘i Island is also where Waimea Butcher Shop, which focuses on local, sustainably and ethically raised
meats, has opened a full dining room in addition to its retail operation.
Also
on Maui, agrotourism opportunities are growing at Surfing Goat Dairy, which offers farm tours, and, during “kid season” when
the baby goats are born from December to late Spring, travelers can even sign
up to cuddle with the baby goats. The fresh and aged cheese and goat milk
chocolate truffles are the real stars of the show here, and they’re available
for purchase in the gift shop after you’re done loving on the goats.
Rum
lovers will find their tipple at tasting rooms for KōHana Rum (O‘ahu) and Kōloa Rum (Kaua‘i). On Maui,
there’s Vodka, Gin, Rum, and crafted Espresso Martini at Ocean Organic Farm & Distillery.
Coffee
Lovers will find their preferred beverage throughout Hawai‘i, with many local
roasteries like Lion Coffee (O‘ahu) or the
estate-grown Kaua‘i Coffee. On the Island of
Hawai‘i, there are so many coffee plantations that there’s a full list available. Be sure
to try locally beloved flavored coffees like Vanilla Macadamia Nut.
On
Kaua‘i, Red Salt at Koa Kea resort is named for the island’s famous sea
salt, dried in natural earth pans on the island’s west side, drawing its
distinctive color and flavor from the red volcanic clay on that side of the
island. Try an inventive cocktail or fresh sushi from the sushi bar, or one of
the nightly specials focusing on steaks or fresh-caught island seafood.
Papaoneone Beach on Oahu's west coast, Hawaii. (Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/Dudarev Mikhail)
Best
Places for Adventure Travel in Hawaii
Adventure
travel can be a difficult undertaking in Hawai’i. Much of the attention received
by adventure travelers lately tends to concern those who unwittingly trespass
onto private or off-limits land, or who exceed their own limitations and
require rescue from island first responders, taking up precious resources that
could be devoted to community residents.
Because
of this, Hawaii operators tend to focus on soft, guided adventure—think
parasailing, ziplining or surfing—activities that can all be easily arranged by
resort concierges or some of the many outfitters that abound in tourism areas
on each of the islands.
On
Kaua‘i, a distinctive soft adventure activity is mountain tubing through old plantation canals, while visitors to each of
the islands can also enjoy hiking various trails, mostly through state parks.
On
Hawai‘i Island, Kona Boys offers outrigger canoe
(wa‘a) rides that immerse travelers in this Hawaiian tradition, or snorkeling
excursions in Kealakekua Bay, the site of fateful historic interactions between
the ruling chiefs and Captain Cook.
For
travelers wanting to give back, guests can hike with an interpretive guide from
Hawai‘i Forest & Trail at the endangered Waikōloa
Dry Forest Reserve to collect native seeds to keep in a seed bank to help
preserve and perpetuate native species in the forest, before continuing on to a
scenic picnic before summiting the volcano for an evening of private
stargazing. The company’s Hidden Craters hike takes guests through the crater
of the restricted Hualālai Volcano, exploring ancient cloud forests and lava
tubes.
Visitors
who plan to hike without a guide should take plenty of water, inform their
accommodations or a family member of their plans, wear sturdy shoes, and check
to make sure the trails are actually accessible to the public before setting
out. State parks' websites update frequently with trail closures and conditions
information, and paying close attention to the posted information can be
life-saving. Hikers should also know their limits and turn around at the first
sign of difficulty in unknown terrain or challenging conditions.
Outrigger canoe sailing in Kaneohe Bay, Oahu, Hawaii. (Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/ottosphotos)
Best
Places for Sports Enthusiasts in Hawaii
For
popular televised sports, O’ahu is the undisputed champion. Every year, the
Hawaii Bowl is held in Honolulu around Christmas, and the University of Hawaii
hosts other teams in Honolulu throughout the season. Volleyball is also a
popular spectator sport in Hawai’i, even rivaling football.
Surfing—a
sport invented by Hawaiian royalty—also has many tournaments in Hawai’i
throughout the year, at some of the sport’s most legendary surf breaks, like
the north shores of both O’ahu and Maui.
Hawai’i
is also a golfer’s paradise, with well-known courses designed by the sport’s
legends on each of the four main islands, particularly in Kapalua, Maui;
Princeville, Kaua’I; and the Island of Hawai’i’s Kohala Coast.
The
following sampling of events are planned for 2026 in Hawai‘i:
Surfers catching a wave in Waimea Bay on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii. (Photo Credit: Adobe/J Westermann-Blawert)
Unique
to Hawaii
The
biggest draw for many visitors may be the unique culture of Hawai’i—a pan-Pacific
blend of Polynesian, Asian and European contributions, all underlined by native
Hawaiian heritage that is still reclaiming its voice and position in these
islands that the kanaka maoli—or Native Hawaiians—have stewarded as their kuleana
(responsibility) since long before Europeans arrived.
The
Aloha State’s superlatives ring loud and frequently: The only island state. The
only state that was once a sovereign kingdom. The only state with a royal
palace. The only state that grows coffee. The only state where “interstate
freeways” aren’t actually interstate. The southernmost state (but still gets
snow). In addition to superlatives, Hawai‘i is a place of mo‘olēlo (stories).
The
story of this island chain can be told by many, but it’s most important to
listen to the voices that are most rooted in this ‘āina (land)—that of kanaka
maoli. Visitors can also support Native Hawaiian-owned businesses during their visit, to
ensure their visitor dollars go directly to Hawai‘i’s most rooted residents.
They can also volunteer their time to support local communities during their
visit through the Mālama Hawai‘i program.
As one
of the world’s most isolated land masses, the Hawaiian Islands are like few
other places on earth—they’re one of the destinations that are truly
extraordinary, and that’s what drives the massive visitor interest among both
first-time and repeat visitors.
To
plan your Hawai‘i vacation in 2026, you can find more information at gohawaii.com.
Editor's Note: The
author recognizes the importance of Hawaiian language diacritical marks, such
as the kahako (macron), but notes that some may be omitted in the text for web
browser compatibility.
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