Gretchen Stuppy Carlson
Hawaii is a dream destination and is the perfect place for an adventure trip. From towering volcanoes to waterfalls and stunning beaches and marine life, Hawaii should be on your bucket list. When we started planning our 7 days Hawaii itinerary, one of our main goals was to see both of the US National parks and make the most of our time in the islands.
This Hawaii national parks itinerary includes 3 days exploring the National Parks and a mixture of other incredible drives, hikes and beaches.
Don't want to plan it yourself? Search fo incredible multi-day tours to explore Hawaii.
See other Hawaii Itineraries:
- 5 Days in Maui
- 2 Days on the Big Island
Overview of this 7 days Hawaii Itinerary
Snapshot of this Hawaii 7 Days Itinerary
Here is a snapshot of your 7 Days Hawaii Itinerary. To see complete details continue scrolling down.
Day 1: Hawaii
- Visit and hike to 2 gorgeous Beaches: Mahaiula and Makalawena Beach
- Grab lunch overlooking the water
- Spend the afternoon surfing
Day 2: Hawaii
- Explore Volcano National Park
- Hike around the Volcanic Crater
- Drive down Chain of Craters Road
Day 3: Maui
- Morning flight to Maui
- Spend the afternoon exploring the West coast of Maui
- Walk the Wailea Beach Path
Day 4: Maui
- Drive around the northeast part of Maui
- Stop in Lahaina
- Hike the Kapalua Coastal Trail
- Visit the Dragon’s Teeth and Napalele Blowhole
- Hike the Ohai Trail
Day 5: Maui
- Spend the morning surfing
- Take a guided tour, find a beach to snorkel or hit the beach
Day 6: Maui
- Drive the Road to Hana
- Stop at Waianapanapa State Park
- Hike the Pipiwai Trail (Haleakala National Park)
- Visit the 7 Sacred Pools (Haleakala National Park)
Day 7: Maui
- Visit Haleakala National Park
- Watch the Sunrise
- Hike the Sliding Sands Trail and Halemau’u Trail
Why You’ll Love this Itinerary
This is almost the exact itinerary we did during our visit to Hawaii with a few improvements based on our experience. This itinerary is jam packed with activities to keep you active but also includes plenty of time for relaxing. There are many ways to adjust this itinerary as you go. By the end of your week in Hawaii you will have seen and experienced some of the best activities that Maui and Hawaii offer and spent time in both of Hawaii’s National Parks.
How to Use this Itinerary
This itinerary assumes you will arrive the day before the itinerary starts and leave the day after it finishes. You will be spending 3 nights on Hawaii and 5 nights on Maui. Feel free to switch that days around completely. We ended up switching our days on Maui around due to the reservations for sunrise in Haleakala National Park and the need to get some stiches. There are a few longer days on driving on this itinerary, so you should try to split these up if possible.
National Parks in Hawaii List and Overview
There are two National Parks in Hawaii:
These parks both have interesting volcanic activity and you can walk through craters, see lava, explore lava tubes, walk past steam vents, and more. Both of the National Parks in Hawaii also have a coastal area that offers additional hiking trails.
This itinerary was partly created so we could visit both of Hawaii’s National Parks in a 1 week trip. You should plan to spend 1 day visit Volcanoes National Park and 2 Days exploring Haleakala National Park.
Both parks have an entrance fee to get into and if you plan to visit Haleakala for the sunrise, you will need to make a reservation far in advance.
Booking Checklist:
- 3 nights of hotels on Hawaii
- 5 nights of hotels on Maui
- Inter-island flight between Kona and Maui
- Reservation for Sunrise at Haleakala National Park
- Reservation for Waianapanapa State Park
- Car rental on both islands
- Tours
General Tips to Make the most of your Hawaii 7 days Itinerary
Here are some general tips to keep in mind as you plan your Hawaii Itinerary
- Plan ahead: Research and plan your itinerary in advance to make the most of your time on the islands.
- Inter-island travel: If you’re visiting multiple islands, book your inter-island flights in advance to ensure smooth transitions between destinations.
- Accommodation: Find accommodations that are conveniently located near the attractions you want to visit. Consider factors like proximity to the beach, restaurants, and transportation options. We stayed on the West coast of both islands.
- Car rental: Renting a car is highly recommended to explore the islands independently. It provides flexibility and allows you to reach off-the-beaten-path destinations. With this itinerary you will visit higher elevations and temperatures can be much cooler. Pack layers for these days.
- Snorkeling gear: If you enjoy snorkeling, consider bringing your own gear. It can save you money and allow you to explore various snorkeling spots at your own pace.
- Sunrise and sunset: Witnessing sunrise and sunset in Hawaii is a magical experience. Find out the best spots for sunrise and sunset viewing on your chosen island and plan your days accordingly.
- Local cuisine: Sample the local cuisine by trying traditional Hawaiian dishes such as poke, kalua pig, and plate lunches. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to try authentic Hawaiian food.
- Water activities: Take advantage of Hawaii’s stunning coastline by participating in water activities like surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, or taking a sunset cruise.
- Hiking opportunities: Hawaii offers beautiful hiking trails that lead to breathtaking views and natural wonders. Research and select hikes suitable for your fitness level and interests.
- Cultural experiences: Immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture by attending a luau, exploring historical sites, visiting museums, or participating in traditional activities like lei making or hula dancing.
- Beach etiquette: Respect the environment and local customs when visiting the beaches. Follow any posted rules, avoid littering, and be mindful of your impact on the delicate ecosystems. Beaches in Hawaii are very accessible to the public.
- Time zone adjustment: If you’re traveling from a different time zone, give yourself a day or two to adjust to the local time and overcome jet lag before diving into your activities. Keep the first day flexible to allow for time to adjust.
- Relaxation time: While it’s tempting to pack your days with activities, allow yourself some downtime to relax and soak in the natural beauty of the islands. Take leisurely walks on the beach or simply unwind by the pool.
Complete Details of this 7 day trip to Hawaii
Day 1: Hawaii
Start your fir morning with a hike to Mahaiula and Makalawena Beach. These stunning beaches can be reached down a rough road just north of the airport. You can drive right to Mahaiula beach if you have a 4×4 car, or park at the road and walk down to the beach. You can find excellent snorkeling and swimming and keep your eyes out for a Monk Seal.
From Mahaiula Beach take a short hike across a lava field to Makalawena Beach. This is a gorgeous and slightly more remote beach that is definitely worth a visit.
See more about The Mahaiula and Makalawena Beach Hike.
We opted for a satisfying meal at Papa Kona Restaurant & Bar.
Following our lunch, we faced a choice between renting surfboards and indulging in water sports or exploring another beach. Ultimately, we chose to embrace the waves and made our way to Kahalu’u Beach Park. At Kahalu’u Bay Surf and Sea, we easily rented surfboards, and for those interested, the opportunity to book surfing lessons was also available. This beach boasts a renowned snorkeling spot and convenient picnic tables.
After an exhilarating afternoon of surfing, we returned to our hotel to unwind and grab dinner.
Day 2: Hawaii
Embark on an early morning adventure by driving to the National Park, which could take you anywhere from 1 to 3 hours depending on your accommodation’s location. Arriving at the park early is advantageous, as it allows you to avoid crowds and provides ample time for exploration. Don’t forget to pack layers, water, a lunch, and plenty of snacks for the day. For more detailed information about this segment of your two-day itinerary on the Big Island, refer to our Volcanoes Itinerary page.
If the visitor center is open upon your arrival, take a moment to stop by. Grab a map, gather updated information, and make use of the restroom facilities.
Begin your day by embarking on the Kīlauea Iki Trail. This trail showcases volcanic vents, the rim of the crater, a descent into the crater itself, and a fascinating walk through a Lava Tube. The entire trail spans 3.8 miles with a modest elevation gain of just under 800 feet, taking approximately 2 to 3 hours to complete. By hiking this trail alone, you will experience the highlights of this park section.
Following the hike, drive to the Devastation Trail and savor a delightful picnic lunch before continuing your journey along the Chain of Craters Road. This road winds its way from the volcano’s summit down to the coast, granting captivating panoramic views of the sprawling lava flows and the volcano’s side.
Upon reaching the coast, be sure to visit the enchanting sea arch and take a brief stroll to witness the petroglyphs on the Pu’u Loa Petroglyph Trail. If you find yourself fatigued and unable to embark on this hike, consider exploring the alternative trail located just across the road. It offers a shorter walk where you can still admire some captivating petroglyphs within a few minutes.
Conclude your day by driving back up the Chain of Craters Road towards the park entrance, eventually making your way back to your hotel to enjoy a well-deserved dinner.
See the The 8 Best Hikes in Volcano National Park.
Another option for this day is to do this as a guided tour – explore more tours in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Day 3: Maui
Catch and early morning flight to Maui. We flew with Hawaiian Airlines, but there are several operators.
The initial day of your Maui trip will be dedicated to experiencing the wonders of the Western side. It serves as a relaxed day, allowing you to catch your breath upon arrival. However, if you’re eager to dive into a more adventurous itinerary, consider starting with day 2.
Western Maui, located on the leeward and drier side of the island, boasts a plethora of stunning beaches that can easily occupy your entire day. Begin your morning by embarking on a leisurely stroll along the Wailea Beach Path. This picturesque walk will lead you past several beautiful beaches. Feel free to pause at these beaches to indulge in swimming and snorkeling. During our own walk along this path, we were fortunate enough to spot whales and sea turtles.
As the afternoon approaches, drive south to Makena Beach State Park and dedicate some time to wander and explore the breathtaking undeveloped expanse of Big Beach. Conclude your day by witnessing the mesmerizing sunset on your favorite Maui beach before enjoying a delightful dinner.
Looking for more to do on the west of Maui? Check out: 15 Amazing and Adventurous Things to do in West Maui.
Day 4: Maui
On the second day of your 5-day Maui itinerary, take a scenic drive around the northeast part of the island. This loop offers breathtaking views and various opportunities for exploration. If you’re interested, you can also squeeze in some surfing or join a guided tour.
Begin your morning by driving up the western coast towards Lahaina. Along the way, you’ll encounter several beautiful beach stretches worth checking out. In Lahaina, you can catch some waves, do some shopping, grab a coffee, and admire the impressive banyan tree at the town center.
After exploring Lahaina, continue your journey north. You’ll find more inviting beaches along the route, or you can head straight to Kapalua. There, hike the Kapalua Coastal Trail and visit the Dragon’s Teeth and Maui Labyrinth. The trail spans 2.5 miles along the coastline, adorned with lava formations, offering stunning coastal and ocean views. Take some time to snorkel at Kapalua Bay Beach.
Drive a few more minutes north to reach the Nakalele Blowhole. It’s a short but steep hike down the rocks to witness the blowhole in action. When waves crash against the rocks, water shoots up through a hole in the rocks from an underground cavern. While you can catch a glimpse of the blowhole from the lookout near the road, the best view is from down on the rocks. Please exercise caution along this coastal stretch, especially during periods of large waves.
Continue driving north and make a stop at the short 2-mile Ohai Trail, which offers a different perspective of the island’s northern region.
Complete the loop by driving across the north and down the east side, exercising caution on the narrow and winding roads. This less populated part of the island is truly picturesque. If you prefer not to drive this section, you can simply turn around and retrace your steps.
This drive takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours without factoring in any stops. We started our day around 8 am and finished exploring, returning to our resort by 6:00 pm. Pack some snacks and be prepared for a long but incredible day!
For more detailed information, check out our guide on “How to Drive the West Maui Loop Drive: An Incredible Hawaiian Day Trip.”
Day 5: Maui
Maui is renowned for its exceptional surf spots, making it a must-visit destination for surfers of all levels, from beginners to experienced wave riders. There are numerous surfing locations to choose from on Maui. As beginners, we opted for Kihei as our surfing spot. Kihei offers various places to rent surfboards, and you have the option to take a lesson or try surfing on your own if you have some experience.
We thoroughly enjoyed this charming area and dined at several restaurants during our stay. The small park here is also a wonderful spot to relax and unwind. Just a small note of caution – avoid walking down the slippery paved boat ramp. Dave unfortunately had a mishap, resulting in a head injury that required 7 staples.
In the afternoon, return to your favorite beach for further exploration, or consider embarking on a guided tour. You can choose to go on a snorkeling trip or indulge in whale watching, as there are numerous amazing tours available on the island. For some of the best options, check out Viator or explore more of the top-rated tours below.
As evening falls, treat yourself to the enchanting experience of a Luau. Immerse yourself in Maui’s vibrant dancing, delectable cuisine, and rich cultural traditions, as the Luau showcases the essence of the island’s captivating heritage.
Day 6: Maui
One of the most popular and laid-back activities on Maui is taking a drive along the renowned Road to Hana. This scenic route meanders along the southeastern part of the island, offering a charming mix of winding roads, picturesque bridges, breathtaking waterfalls, and delightful beaches.
Keep in mind that this is a full-day adventure, requiring ample time to fully explore the road. We suggest opting for a loop drive instead of retracing your steps. While the southern coastal section of the road may have some unpaved and curvy segments, it also features straight stretches with stunning views of Haleakala and the coastal scenery.
If the thought of driving the Road to Hana doesn’t appeal to you, don’t worry. You can also enjoy the journey through a guided tour. Below, you’ll find a list of the best stops along the Road to Hana, offering a delightful blend of experiences.
- Hike the Pipiwai Trail
- Visit the 7 Sacred Pools
- Visit the Beautiful Black Sand Beach and Walk the Waianapanapa Coastal Trail, Maui
- See a complete list of the best places to visit in this post: Reverse Road to Hana.
Day 7: Maui
Conclude your 5-day Maui adventure by embarking on a scenic drive to Haleakala National Park and immersing yourself in the captivating beauty of the crater. Perched high above the rest of Maui, this National Park presents a world that feels utterly distinct. Within Haleakala, you’ll discover a variety of hiking trails to choose from. For those seeking an extraordinary trek, we highly recommend the epic Sliding Sands Trail and Halemau’u Trail.
To make the most of your day, start early and witness the breathtaking sunrise from the crater’s edge. Then, dedicate your morning to hiking one of the trails. If time doesn’t permit tackling the entire 11-mile journey of Sliding Sands and Halemau’u, you can still relish magnificent views by embarking on the initial part of the Sliding Sands Trail. Even the first mile offers an incredible vantage point of the crater.
Please note that if you plan to watch the sunrise from Haleakala, it is essential to make a reservation through the National Park Service.
If you find yourself with additional time in the afternoon, bring your 5-day Maui itinerary to a delightful close by visiting one of the beaches along the West Coast to savor a mesmerizing sunset.
Things to Know about Visiting Hawaii
Best Time of Year to Visit Hawaii
The best time to visit Hawaii is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). These months offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices compared to the peak tourist season. However, Hawaii’s tropical climate makes it a year-round destination, so you can enjoy the islands’ beauty and activities any time of the year.
How to Get to Hawaii
Most travelers arrive at Honolulu International Airport (HNL) on the island of Oahu, which serves as a major hub for flights from around the world. Direct flights are available from many major cities in the United States, as well as international destinations. If you’re planning to visit other islands, you can take short inter-island flights from Honolulu or opt for ferry services.
Summary of this 7 Days Hawaii Itinerary
Embark on an unforgettable journey to Hawaii with our comprehensive guide. Discover a 7 days Hawaii itinerary that covers the stunning islands of Maui and Hawaii, showcasing the best attractions, activities, and hidden gems. Whether you’re seeking pristine beaches, lush landscapes, or vibrant cultural experiences, this article has you covered. Learn about the best time to visit Hawaii, transportation options, and essential travel tips to make the most of your tropical getaway. Get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty, adventure, and aloha spirit of Hawaii like never before.
