7 Day Sample Itinerary For Hawaii
So you are bringing a large group to Hilo and need an itinerary? While every group needs something different, Howzit Hospitality has been around the block a time or two and is happy to make some recommendations. Check out our example of a 7 day Hawaii Island Itinerary below.
Day 1: Arrival and Hilo Exploration
Morning:
Arrival at Hilo International Airport (ITO): Touch down in paradise! Once everyone has their luggage, gather your group and head to the rental car area. Renting a van or multiple cars is the best way to navigate the island comfortably.
Check-In: After a short drive, arrive at your accommodation. Howzit Hospitality offers a convenient location in Downtown Hilo near the ocean and is a great choice for larger groups.
Afternoon:
Liliuokalani Gardens: Kick off your trip with a relaxing visit to Liliuokalani Gardens. These Japanese gardens are a serene spot to unwind after your flight. Wander through the lush landscapes, cross picturesque bridges, and take in the tranquil atmosphere.
Lunch at Café Pesto: Head to Café Pesto for lunch. This local favorite serves up delicious dishes with fresh, local ingredients. Try their pizzas, pastas, and salads, and enjoy the friendly service and vibrant atmosphere.
Evening:
Hilo Farmers Market: Explore the Hilo Farmers Market, especially if it’s Wednesday or Saturday when the market is at its busiest. You’ll find fresh produce, local crafts, and souvenirs to take home. It’s a great place to get a feel for the local culture.
Dinner at Pineapples Restaurant: Finish your day with dinner at Pineapples, known for its fresh, farm-to-table menu and lively outdoor seating. Try the ahi poke or the Kalua pork, and toast to the start of an unforgettable trip.
Tips for Groups:
Use group messaging apps like WhatsApp or Slack for coordination. It makes it easier to keep everyone in the loop.
Reserve transportation in advance to ensure smooth transitions between activities. Having a rental van or multiple cars will give your group flexibility. Howzit Hospitality has a 15 passenger van available to add to your reservation, and we can arrange additional transport if necessary.
Day 2: Volcanoes National Park
Morning:
Drive to Volcanoes National Park: Start your day with a scenic 45-minute drive to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Carpooling can save on gas and parking fees. Arrive early to make the most of your day and beat the crowds.
Kīlauea Visitor Center: Begin your visit at the Kīlauea Visitor Center to get an overview of the park. Check out the exhibits, watch the informational film, and chat with the rangers for tips and current park conditions.
Afternoon:
Crater Rim Drive: Embark on the Crater Rim Drive, a scenic route that takes you to several key sites within the park. Visit the steam vents and Sulphur Banks, where you can see and smell volcanic gases escaping from the ground. Stop at the Jaggar Museum for panoramic views of the Kīlauea Caldera.
Kīlauea Iki Trail: For a moderate hike, tackle the Kīlauea Iki Trail. This 4-mile loop takes you through a lush rainforest and across a solidified lava lake from a 1959 eruption. The views are spectacular and offer a closer look at the island’s volcanic activity.
Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch or grab food from the Volcano House. Enjoy your meal with a view of the crater.
Evening:
Night Viewing of the Lava Glow: If conditions permit, head to the Halema‘uma‘u Crater observation area after dark. Seeing the glow from the lava lake is a truly magical experience. Be sure to dress warmly as temperatures can drop significantly at night.
Dinner back in Hilo: After a full day of exploring, head back to Hilo for dinner at Hilo Bay Cafe. This restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere and delicious dishes made with local ingredients.
Tips for Groups:
Carpool to reduce the number of vehicles. Howzit Hospitality has a 15 passenger van available to add to your reservation, and we can arrange additional transport if necessary.
Pack plenty of water and snacks for the day. The park is vast and services are limited.
Day 3: Waterfalls and Botanical Gardens
Morning:
Akaka Falls State Park: Drive about 30 minutes north of Hilo to Akaka Falls State Park. The short, scenic hike to Akaka Falls is perfect for groups and suitable for all fitness levels. The trail is a loop that takes you through lush rainforest to the stunning 442-foot Akaka Falls. Don’t forget your camera for some group shots!
Lunch in Honomu: After your hike, stop by the quaint town of Honomu. Mr. Ed’s Bakery is a must-visit for their delicious pastries and friendly service. Grab a casual lunch and some baked goods for later.
Afternoon:
Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden: Head back towards Hilo and spend the afternoon at the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden. This lush, 40-acre garden is home to over 2,000 species of tropical plants and offers well-maintained paths that lead you through a jungle paradise. It’s a photographer’s dream and a peaceful place to explore at your own pace.
Evening:
Dinner at Hilo Town Tavern: For a laid-back dinner, head to Hilo Town Tavern. This local spot offers a relaxed atmosphere, great food, and live music. It’s a perfect place to unwind and share stories from the day.
Tips for Groups:
Designate a meeting spot in case anyone gets separated.
Encourage everyone to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water and sunscreen.
Day 4: Snorkeling and Beach Day
Morning:
Snorkeling at Richardson Ocean Park: Start your day with a trip to Richardson Ocean Park, located just a short drive from Hilo. This black sand beach is one of the best spots for snorkeling on the island. The clear, calm waters are perfect for spotting colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine life. Bring your own snorkel gear or rent it from local shops.
Pack a Picnic Lunch: Prepare a picnic lunch before heading out. Enjoy your meal at the park’s picnic tables, surrounded by the beautiful scenery and the sound of the ocean.
Afternoon:
Relax and Swim: Spend the afternoon swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the tide pools. Richardson Ocean Park has plenty of shady spots under palm trees, making it a comfortable place to relax and take breaks from the sun.
Evening:
Dinner at Ken’s House of Pancakes: After a day at the beach, head to Ken’s House of Pancakes for dinner. This Hilo institution is open 24/7 and offers a diverse menu with something for everyone. Try the loco moco, a classic Hawaiian dish, or one of their famous pancakes.
Tips for Groups:
Howzit Hospitality offers complimentary snorkel gear, however depending on the size of your group, you may also need to rent some as well.
Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine environment and avoid harming the coral reefs.
Day 5: Mauna Kea Summit and Stargazing
Morning:
Relaxing Morning in Hilo: After a busy few days, take it easy in the morning. Grab coffee and breakfast at Hilo Coffee Mill, a local favorite known for its excellent coffee and friendly atmosphere. Spend some time exploring the local shops and enjoying the laid-back vibe of Hilo.
Afternoon:
Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station: In the afternoon, drive to the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station, located at 9,200 feet. Spend some time here to acclimate to the altitude. The visitor center offers educational displays, a small shop, and restrooms.
Picnic Dinner: Pack a picnic dinner to enjoy at the summit. The visitor center has picnic tables where you can relax and eat before heading to the top.
Evening:
Sunset and Stargazing at Mauna Kea: Drive up to the summit for an unforgettable sunset. The road can be challenging, so if you’re uncomfortable driving, consider booking a guided tour. Once at the top, you’ll be treated to one of the most spectacular sunsets in the world. After the sun goes down, stay for some of the best stargazing on the planet. The Mauna Kea summit is one of the best places in the world for astronomy, and the night sky is truly awe-inspiring.
Warm Clothing: It gets very cold at the summit, so dress in layers and bring warm clothing. Temperatures can drop below freezing, even in summer.
Tips for Groups:
Check road and weather conditions before you go. The road to the summit can be closed due to weather.
Consider booking a guided tour if you’re uncomfortable driving up the mountain. Tours often include transportation, warm clothing, and expert guides.
Day 6: Puna District and Hot Springs
Morning:
Kehena Black Sand Beach: Start your day with a visit to Kehena Black Sand Beach, located about an hour from Hilo in the Puna District. This unique beach is known for its black sand and stunning coastal views. Be aware that this is a clothing-optional beach, so prepare your group accordingly. The waves can be strong, so exercise caution when swimming.
Afternoon:
Lunch at Pahoa Village: Head to the nearby village of Pahoa for lunch. This small town has a quirky, laid-back vibe and several good dining options. Try Pele’s Kitchen for delicious, locally-sourced meals or head to Tin Shack Bakery for sandwiches and pastries.
Afternoon:
Ahalanui Warm Ponds: After lunch, visit the Ahalanui Warm Ponds, a naturally heated thermal pool. The water is warmed by volcanic activity and offers a unique and relaxing experience. The pond is right next to the ocean, providing a beautiful setting to unwind.
Explore Pahoa: Spend some time exploring Pahoa's unique shops and boutiques
