Solo Travel to Hawaii? Here’s What to Know

Have you thought about solo travel to Hawaii? This is an ideal destination for a one-person getaway, whether you want R&R or big adventures. 

But first you need to know what to expect when you travel to Hawaii alone, and what activities will fill your quiet, flexible days. Read along as we reveal the best destination for solo travel and how to make the most of your trip. 

Be sure to stick around to the end, because we’ll also share our #1 piece of advice if you’re booking a Hawaii vacation alone. And of course we’ve got our best tips and FAQs along the way. 

So let’s begin to plan your trip to Hawaii and make the most of your solo getaway. 

The Perks of Traveling Alone 

Solo travel can be nerve-racking. Many people worry about safety, while others are self-conscious about joining activities alone. Then there is the risk of boredom and how to handle so much peace and quiet. 

Have you ever considered taking a trip alone? Sure, there are worries and risks (as there is with any kind of travel), but there are also so many benefits to solo travel. Here are some perks for hitting the highway (or skies!) as a lone wolf:

• Flexibility and freedom with your itinerary and activity choices
• Lower costs 
• Personal development as you step outside your comfort zone and embrace self-discovery
• You often meet more new people as a solo traveler

Hawaii: The Top Destination for Solo Travel

Now that you know why you want to take a solo trip, it’s time to choose the best destination. We’ve found that Hawaii may be one of the best places for anyone taking a solo trip for the first time. 

If you’ve never traveled alone, you may not want to dive right into a foreign country with different languages and currency and customs. But, you still want someplace that feels remote, unique, and memorable. Hawaii checks all those boxes. 

U.S. travelers don’t have to worry about passports and currency exchanges or foreign languages during a Hawaii vacation. Hotels, car rentals, and stores all operate the same as anywhere on the mainland. When you first travel alone, you’re already worried about the psychological and social aspects of your trip — you don’t want to be worried about major logistical challenges. 

Hawaii is also a relatively safe destination. Large resorts feature security. Honolulu’s streets stay busy with families and tourists long after dark. Beaches have lifeguards. There are many busy hiking trails, and scenic routes are well-loved and well-marked. 

Hawaii is also popular among repeat solo travelers. After all, the same perks that draw first-time loners also draw people who have embraced this unique kind of vacation. They love the safety, scenery, and many activities available to those who arrive unaccompanied. 

Read on to discover our favorite things to do alone in Hawaii and our favorite tips

Top Hawaii Activities for Solo Travelers

Beach Days

I’ve gone to the beach with friends and barely talked to them the entire time. We were too busy lounging in the sun, taking in the sights, and people watching. I love solo beach days for much of the same reason. Find a spot that works for you and stay as long as you want. Just remember these safety tips:

• Only go to beaches with lifeguards
• Don’t swim in rough conditions or go far out alone 
• Opt for busier beaches with many families and travelers
• Don’t leave any valuables in your car and keep a close eye on any belongings you leave on the sand while you swim

Hawaii has many safe beaches with friendly people. Safety from violence isn’t a huge concern, but always be aware of your surroundings during solo travel to Hawaii (or anywhere!). 

Dining

One of the best things about solo travel? You don’t have to agree on where to eat! The island is your oyster, and you should explore the many dining options that await you here. 

Maybe you crave a local snack from the 7-Eleven, or a decadent meal from an upscale restaurant. Tired after a big day of exploring? Order take out. Want a front row seat to the sunset? Bring your food to a picnic table at the beach. Want to socialize with locals and travelers? Grab a spot at a bar. 

I’ve heard that people feel self-conscious eating at sit-down restaurants alone, and I get it. You’re used to chatting during your meal, and now you’re sitting exposed, watching people at other tables. 

Once you’ve tried it a time or two, you’ll get the hang of it. And you may find yourself making reservations for one even when you return home. 

Sightseeing

Sightseeing is one of those things that can become tough with a group of travelers. Somebody is tired of being in the car, somebody else is hungry, one can’t wait to see and do everything, and one is anxious about getting lost. 

Lone travelers can go at their own pace and see only what they’re drawn to. Stop and read every placard, or skip it all and get straight to the big photo op. 

Or, you may find that you enjoy being a part of a travel group and opt for a chauffeured driving tour. This is a great option if you don’t want to sightsee and drive at the same time. Plus, you’ll get the chance to socialize with other travelers. 

Fun Activities For Solo Travel in Hawaii

It’s common to see solo travelers at group activities in Hawaii. Maybe you want to enjoy a sunset sail, or join a guided kayak excursion. You’ve dreamed of tubing through Kauai’s irrigation canals, or exploring a Kona coffee farm. Check off your bucket list in Hawaii, even if you’re coming here alone. 

• Learn to surf, or try Waikiki outrigger canoe surfing.
• Kauai Backcountry Adventures offers river tubing and ziplining. 
• Book a spot on a Mauna Kea stargazing tour on Hawaii Island (The Big Island)
• Spend the day shopping — Waikiki has a variety of shops, and Ala Moana Center is a massive mall in Honolulu. 
• You don’t have to navigate the Road to Hana alone. Tour companies offer chauffeured rides along this famous Maui route. 
• Book a massage at your resort or a small spa. Many offer the service near the beach or in a quiet outdoor setting. 

Pool Time

When I’m on a family vacation, I love escaping to the pool. It’s the perfect place to soak up the sun and unwind, without having to tote a bunch of stuff all the way to the beach. And when I travel alone, you’ll find me at the pool. 

If you stay at a big resort, you may have access to an adults-only pool with bar service and shaded loungers. Condos typically have fewer crowds at their pools and offer the chance to bring your own beverage along. 

Happy Hour

Speaking of beverages, how about happy hour in Hawaii? Here, we call it pau hana, and it’s a great time to socialize, get some food & drink deals, and catch some live music. 

Lots of bars and restaurants have happy hour deals, whether you want a light dinner, a classic mai tai, some two-for-one beer, or simply someplace to socialize. 

FAQ About Hawaii Solo Travel

What’s the best island to travel to alone?

Oahu is a great choice for Hawaii solo travel, since there are lots of resort options, a busy nightlife in Waikiki, and beautiful sightseeing. You won’t get bored on Oahu, though you may miss out on some serene moments. 

If you are looking for self-discovery and rejuvenation, Maui or Kauai could be just the place. 

What kind of accommodations are best for solo travelers?

We recommend hotels for anyone traveling alone. You don’t need a ton of space, so a condo or vacation rental may be more than you need. Resorts also offer security and more amenities. Direct beach access is a big plus for solo travelers, and you may like a place with various food and beverage options. 

Are there unsafe areas in Hawaii?

Hawaii is a generally safe place, but you’ll probably want to avoid isolated areas. Activities like hiking and sightseeing are best done in safe, marked places. 

Sure, there are bad actors in Hawaii, but the real concern is physical safety as you explore. We’re talking about falls, water accidents, and other dangers. Your solo trip isn’t the best time to look for hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path adventures. 

Should I rent a car?

You may find a rental car isn’t worth the expense, especially if you plan to stay mostly within your resort bubble, or are vacationing in a walkable area like Oahu’s Waikiki or Maui’s Kaanapali. 

Lots of resorts charge steep parking fees, and taxis and ride shares are readily available. 

If you want the most flexibility and freedom, a rental car will allow you to go anywhere whenever you want. 

Pro tip – if a rental car and parking fees seem expensive, consider booking a rental car for only part of your stay. 

What kinds of people will I meet in Hawaii?

You’ll encounter all kinds of people during your solo vacation. The beaches and shops are bustling with vacationers and local families. Other solo travelers may be hanging around at bars or joining group excursions. 

Retirees and other snow birds socialize at restaurants and at the beach. 

Will I get bored if I travel to Hawaii alone?

Probably not! The islands have so much to do, and days will fly by as you enjoy the beaches and sightseeing. But, boredom is something to keep in mind when you think about how long to stay in Hawaii.

How long should I stay in Hawaii if I’m traveling alone?

Three to six days is probably a good timeframe for a solo trip. Time does move slower when you’re alone, and you can get more done if you aren’t packing up an entire family every time you leave the hotel. 

#1 Tip for Solo Hawaii Travelers

Our top tip for anyone traveling alone to Hawaii is to come ready for transformation and enlightenment. Solo travel is a unique experience that will allow you to better observe the world around you and your own inner wellbeing. 

This doesn’t mean you have to do Yoga and get massages and talk to spiritual leaders. You may find that a simple day at the pool, or a quick drive to the store is enough to awaken parts of you that have been on auto pilot. 

And we are so excited for you to experience this. Everyone deserves a vacation that is indulgent and centered. And we can help plan it. Contact Hawaii Aloha Travel for help planning a custom solo trip that’s based around your goals and priorities.