How to Plan a 7-Day Trip in Hawaii. Today, we are going to challenge ourselves and see if we can plan a proper 7-day trip in Hawaii based on all the details we have researched and acquired. Planning a Hawaiian vacation shouldn’t be too hard, but it can be quiet challenging knowing that each island is big and unique in its own way.
With that being said, this is a sample of a 7 day trip in Hawaii which you can use as your guidelines. If you want, you can go ahead and tweak it according to your needs and budget. Let’s get started!
Overview of a 7 Day Trip in Hawaii
We will split this sample itinerary into:
- Maui – 2 days
- Big Island – 3 days
- Kauai – 2 days
Although 7 days sound like a long week for a vacation, Hawaii is definitely not one of those places where you can experience everything within just a couple of days.
If you like traveling slow, invest in more days to be spent in Hawaii, but for now, we will stick to just 7 days of the trip.
Part 1: Exploring Maui for 2 Days
You will definitely want to start your trip at one of the most visited islands in the world. This beautiful place is full of Earth’s beauty. Although all the years of rapid development might have turned this island into more of city life like, Maui is still worth a visit. At Maui and with only 2 days to explore, you need to decide whether you want to go sightseeing or experience the beaches.
If you prefer sightseeing, you should go to Paia, Wailuku, and Kahului. But if you are a beachgoer, definitely head to the west coast of Maui in the Kalapana resort area, or to the east of the island.
One of the best things to do when you’re in Maui is driving on the Hana Highway. You can also spend your time hiking the bamboo forest or drive your way up to Haleakala.
Part 2: Spending Time in the Big Island For 3 Days
Considered as one of the most diverse destinations in the archipelago, the Big Island is surprisingly big. Although this sample itinerary suggests you explore the Big Island for 3 days, we do highly recommend you spend at least 4 to 5 days there.
For day one, you can go snorkeling in Two-Step Beach or Kealakekua Bay. You can also enjoy swimming, surfing the waves, and checking out the green sea turtles. On day number two, head north and hit the road toward the Kohala Region.
Don’t forget to hike the Insta-famous Waipio valley! On your last day, you can cycle or hike in Kalapana toward the current lava flow. This is definitely an experience that you will never get elsewhere but in Hawaii.
Part 3: Finish Off in Kauai for 2 Days
When you are finally on Kauai, take it easy by going to Poipu Beach for a relaxing picnic lunch. Go for a hike up the coast along the Maha’ulepu Heritage trail before you end your first day with amazing sunset views on the South side.
You can also experience the scenic drive of the Waimea Canyon on day two and admire the spectacular scenery of the Na Pali Coastline. Finish off your Hawaiian trip at Luau Kalamaku for a Polynesian dance show that evening.
