Hawaii island hopping is an incredible experience, offering diverse landscapes and unique cultural experiences on each island. But planning inter-island travel requires some forethought. The good news? It’s absolutely worth it! With careful planning, navigating between the islands is surprisingly easy. However, it’s important to factor in travel time to ensure your trip is long enough to fully appreciate each destination.
Let’s delve into the details of how to navigate the Hawaiian islands like a pro.
Options for Hawaii Island Hopping
When it comes to island hopping in Hawaii, you have several convenient options. The most popular choices are flying, taking a ferry (limited routes), booking an inter-island cruise, or opting for a guided tour.
Let’s explore each of these in detail:
1. Flying Between Hawaiian Islands
Flying is the most common and generally the least expensive way to travel between the Hawaiian islands.
Commercial Airlines Offering Inter-Island Flights:
Three main airlines offer inter-island flights within Hawaii:
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Hawaiian Airlines: As the largest operator of flights to and from Hawaii, Hawaiian Airlines boasts comprehensive inter-island routes. You can find direct flights between Oahu, Kauai, Maui, and the Big Island. Hawaiian Airlines serves the major airports on each island, including Honolulu (HNL), Kahului (OGG), Lihue (LIH), Kona (KOA), and Hilo (ITO).
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Southwest Airlines: Southwest Airlines, the newest player in the inter-island travel market, operates on similar routes to Hawaiian Airlines, offering direct flights between the four major islands. Known for its budget-friendly fares, Southwest is often the cheapest option (although Hawaiian Airlines offers competitive pricing).
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Mokulele Airlines: Mokulele Airlines utilizes smaller, turbo-prop planes that fly from both the main and smaller airports on the islands. It is the only airline serving both Molokai and Lanai. On the Big Island, Mokulele flies from Hilo (ITO), Kona (KOA), and Waimea-Kohala Airport (MUE). On Maui, it flies from Kahului (OGG) and Kapalua (JHM). It also serves Honolulu (HNL) and Lihue (LIH).
Southwest vs. Hawaiian Airlines for Interisland Flights: Key Considerations
When choosing between Southwest and Hawaiian Airlines for interisland travel, consider the following:
- Checked Bags: Southwest offers free checked bags, a significant advantage unless you have free baggage allowance with Hawaiian.
- Island Vibe: Hawaiian Airlines provides a distinctly Hawaiian atmosphere with colorful decor and complimentary juice.
- Seat Assignments: Hawaiian Airlines offers superior seat selection options. Early booking allows you to reserve a seat for free. Reasonably priced extra legroom upgrades are also available.
- Premium Options: Hawaiian Airlines provides first-class and extended legroom options in economy class.
- USB Charging: Southwest offers USB charging at your seat (fleet-wide installation in progress).
- Cancellation and Rebooking: Southwest simplifies the process of canceling and rebooking flights. Hawaiian’s policies are less flexible regarding re-depositing and reusing funds.
Airports on Each Island:
Each island open to tourism features at least one airport, facilitating convenient island hopping:
- Oahu: Daniel K. Inouye Airport in Honolulu (HNL)
- Maui: Kahului Airport (OGG), Kapalua Airport (JHM)
- Hawai’i (Big Island): Hilo International Airport (ITO), Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA), Waimea-Kohala Airport (MUE)
- Kauai: Lihue Airport (LIH)
- Lana’i: Lana’i Airport (LNY)
- Molokai: Molokai Airport (MKK)
Flight Times Between Hawaiian Islands:
To illustrate the brevity of these flights, here are sample flight times from Honolulu Airport (HNL):
| From Honolulu Airport (HNL) on Oahu to… |
|---|
| Airport |
| Kahului (OGG) |
| Hilo International Airport (ITO) |
| Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA) |
| Lihue Airport (LIH) |
2. Taking a Ferry Between the Hawaiian Islands
Currently, a ferry service operates only between Maui and Lanai. Expeditions Lanai offers a 45-minute ferry ride between the two islands.
The ferry departs from and returns to Ma’alaea Harbor.
Unfortunately, ferry service to Molokai is no longer available, as the Maui-Molokai ferry service was discontinued in 2016.
Expeditions Lanai Ferry
3. Cruising Between the Hawaiian Islands
An inter-island cruise provides an appealing alternative if you prefer to see multiple islands without flying. Norwegian Cruise Line offers cruises that depart from and return to Oahu, with stops on the neighboring islands.
4. Guided Day Trips
For a hassle-free day trip to Pearl Harbor, consider a guided tour. Guided tours offer a streamlined and efficient way to maximize your time, handling transportation, reservations, and navigation.
Is it Easy to Travel Between the Hawaiian Islands?
Yes! Getting around the Hawaiian islands is easy. Flights are short, typically 30 to 45 minutes.
How Much Does it Cost to Travel Between the Hawaiian Islands?
The cost of inter-island flights varies depending on the time of year and how far in advance you book. Fares can be as low as $39 each way on Hawaiian and Southwest Airlines, but typically range from $50 to $100 for a one-way ticket.
How Long Does it Take to Travel Between the Hawaiian Islands?
While direct flights are short (30-45 minutes), the entire island-hopping process can take 4 to 5 hours, door-to-door. This includes travel to/from the airport, rental car procedures, and security checks.
Factor in extra time for flights with layovers in Honolulu.
Island-Hopping in Hawaii: Fast FAQs
Are there ferries between the Hawaiian Islands?
Yes, but only between Maui and Lanai.
Cheapest way to travel between Hawaiian Islands
Flying is generally the cheapest option, with fares potentially as low as $39 each way.
Easiest way to travel between Hawaiian Islands
Flying is usually the easiest for most people. Alternatively, a cruise takes care of all the details.
Hawaii Island Hopping Options
Should You Visit Multiple Islands on Your Trip to Hawaii?
Absolutely! If you have the time, visiting multiple islands is highly recommended. Each island has something unique to offer. Aim to spend at least 5 days on each island to fully experience its distinct character and allow for relaxation.
Get a Good Deal on a Rental Car While Island Hopping
Don’t overpay for rental cars on each island. Discount Hawaii Car Rental can save you money by working with national carriers and requiring no upfront payment to secure your reservation.
Hawaii island hopping offers an unparalleled travel experience, showcasing the diverse beauty and unique cultures of each island. By carefully planning your transportation and allowing ample time to explore each destination, you can create an unforgettable Hawaiian adventure.
