Rent a car – It's the best way to see Hawaii and often there's no other way to reach parts of the islands. At busy times rental cars can run out, so book far in advance. We use Rental Cars to find the best deal and just book the cheapest economy car.

In 2026, the best way to see Hawaii depends on your appetite for logistics: for maximum variety with zero stress, an inter-island cruise (like NCL’s Pride of America) is the winner, as it lets you see four islands in seven days without the "airport shuffle." However, for travelers who want to truly "feel" Hawaii, the best method is the "Two-Island Split." Spend 4 days on Oahu for the history and food, then fly to Kauai or Maui for the raw nature. Renting a car is essential on the "neighbor islands" to reach hidden trailheads and beaches. For the ultimate perspective, a doors-off helicopter tour over Kauai’s Na Pali Coast is often cited by travelers as the single best experience in the archipelago, offering views of 3,000-foot cliffs and waterfalls that are inaccessible by any other means.