In this article, we will discuss 10 important things that you should book in advance when planning a trip to Hawaii in 2024. From flights and rental cars to activities and spa treatments, it's crucial to plan ahead to for an easy and worry-free trip.
So let's dive in and explore these 10 essential bookings for your Hawaii getaway.
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1. Flights
When it comes to flying to Hawaii and island hopping, it's important to book your flights in advance, especially during the busy summer season. Getting an early flight can be tricky, so make sure to plan ahead and secure your tickets.
2. Accommodation
Whether you're staying at a hotel, resort, or vacation rental, securing your lodging EARLY ensures that you have a place to stay during your trip…at the best price. It also allows you to choose the best location, amenities, and room type that suits your preferences and budget.
Booking accommodations in advance also gives you the opportunity to take advantage of any early booking discounts or promotions.
3. Rental Cars (2021)
If you're planning to rent a car during your stay in Hawaii, it's essential to book in advance. This is especially true during peak travel seasons when rental cars can be in high demand. By booking ahead, you can secure the vehicle of your choice and potentially save money by taking advantage of early booking discounts. Additionally, booking in advance allows you to compare prices and find the best deals available.
Hawaii Discount Car Rental lets you shop the best rates and you don't have to prepay for most of the reservations.
4. Inter-island Flight
Flights for island hopping can be as cheap as $30 to $50 if booked in advance. So, if you're planning to explore multiple islands, be sure to book your flights ahead of time. Flights for island hopping can be as cheap as $30 to $50 if booked in advance. So, if you're planning to explore multiple islands, be sure to book your flights ahead of time.
This is especially important if you are island-hopping just for the day specifically for an activity or tour on that island. When I island hop, I usually take the first or second flight of the day which can sell out the fastest.
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5. Activities and Tours (1st choice activity, 1st choice time
When it comes to activities and tours in Hawaii, booking in advance is highly recommended. By doing so, you can ensure that you get your first choice of activities, preferred dates, and desired time slots.
This is particularly important if you're traveling during the busy months of June, July, or August. Popular activities like helicopter rides, movie site tours, and luau experiences can book up quickly, so don't wait until the last minute to secure your spot.
►Read more Activity & Tour articles:
- 5 Questions to Ask BEFORE Booking an Island Tour
- 5 Must Do Tips BEFORE an Activity/Tour
- 6 Questions to Ask BEFORE Booking a Luau
- 15 Most Common Waikiki Hotel Pick-ups for Activities & Tours
6. Luau Experiences
A trip to Hawaii wouldn't be complete without attending a luau. These traditional Hawaiian feasts and performances are incredibly popular, especially among first-time visitors. To avoid disappointment, it's crucial to book your luau experience in advance.
Some of the more popular luaus can book out weeks ahead of time, so be sure to secure your reservation early. Smaller, more intimate luaus tend to fill up faster, so if you're interested in a smaller group experience, book even further in advance.
7. Spa and Wellness Treatments
Hawaii is known for its luxurious spas and wellness treatments, and if you're planning to indulge in some pampering, it's best to book your appointments in advance. The strong Hawaiian sun can be harsh on the skin, so it's important to take care of yourself.
Booking spa treatments early in your stay allows you to acclimate to the weather and avoid any discomfort from sunburns. Additionally, booking early ensures that you get your preferred time slot and treatment of choice.
8. Restaurant Reservations
While you don't have to book every restaurant for every meal, it's a good idea to make reservations at the restaurants you definitely want to try. Some popular restaurants, like Mama's Fish House on Maui and Duke's Waikiki on Oahu, can book out weeks in advance, especially for dinner.
If you have specific time preferences, such as wanting to dine during sunset, it's best to book ahead to secure your desired time. Making restaurant reservations is typically free and can be done through hotel concierges, directly with the restaurant, or online platforms like OpenTable.
9. Golf Tee Times
If golfing is on your itinerary, it's important to book your tee times in advance, especially if you prefer early morning slots. Tee times before 2:30 p.m. are generally more expensive than twilight tee times. Some golf courses also offer shuttle services, so if you plan on using them, make sure to book your space on the shuttle as well.
Ko Olina and Hawaii Prince Golf Course are examples of courses that provide shuttle services, so be sure to secure both your tee time and shuttle reservation in advance.
10. Special Events and Festivals
Waikiki is known for its special events and festivals, including block parties, parades, and cultural celebrations. If you're interested in attending any of these events, it's important to plan ahead and plug them into your vacation itinerary.
By doing so, you can avoid scheduling conflicts with other tours and activities. Researching and noting down the dates and times of these events will help you make the most of your time in Hawaii and experience the local culture.
►More Planning Articles:
- How I Plan Hawaii Itineraries | Tips from a Hawaii Concierge
- 13 Ways to Save For Your Hawaii Trip
- 6 Tips for Packing Light to Hawaii
- 11 Tips for Winter Travel to Hawaii
- 22 Items to Pack to Hawaii | Carry-on ONLY
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Custom Itinerary
If you're looking for a personalized and tailored experience during your Hawaiian vacation, consider booking a custom itinerary. This can help you make the most of your time on the islands and ensure that you don't miss out on any must-see attractions or activities. Whether you're interested in exploring Oahu, Maui, the Big Island, or Kauai, a custom itinerary can provide you with recommendations for tours, activities, restaurants, and more based on your unique interests and preferences.
Planning a trip to Hawaii requires careful consideration and advance bookings. From flights and rental cars to activities and accommodations, it's important to secure your reservations early to ensure a smooth and enjoyable vacation. By booking in advance, you can secure your preferred dates, times, and experiences, and avoid any last-minute disappointments. So, make sure to plan ahead and enjoy your Hawaiian getaway to the fullest.