Can You Drive to Hawaii? Everything You Need to Know (2026 Guide)

No, you cannot drive to Hawaii, and here’s why. Hawaii is located over 2,400 miles into the Pacific Ocean with no land connection to the mainland United States, making a road trip to these islands physically impossible. But that doesn’t mean getting there is complicated.

There are a couple of options for getting to Hawaii. These islands are in a remote location in the Pacific Ocean. There are over 2,400 miles of open ocean surrounding the archipelago. Without land connections, a road trip to Hawaii would be quickly foiled.

In this guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know about getting to Hawaii, getting around once you arrive, and what to bring for the trip.

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Ship your own car to Hawaii

If you’re moving to Hawaii rather than just visiting, shipping your car can make financial sense. Because of Hawaii’s remote location, vehicles on the island typically sell for 15 to 20% more than the same make and model on the mainland, so bringing your own car can save you money in the long run.

How much does it cost to ship a car to Hawaii?

Total shipping costs currently run between $1,600 and $2,600, covering mainland transport to a California departure port (3–7 days) and ocean freight to Hawaii (7–14 days) — 10–21 days total. The closer you are to a West Coast port, the lower your costs.

Which companies ship cars to Hawaii?

Matson Navigation and Pasha Hawaii are the two main established companies for ocean freight shipping to Hawaii. For getting your vehicle from your home to a California port first, companies like AmeriFreight Auto Transport can coordinate that leg of the journey.

What documents do you need?

You’ll need your vehicle title, registration, proof of insurance, and a valid photo ID. Personal items must be removed from the vehicle before shipping.

3 Ways to Get to Hawaii

While you might not be able to drive to Hawaii, you still have some options for getting to these remote islands. 

✈ By plane

The most common way to get to Hawaii is by plane. With over 151 flights from the mainland USA and Hawaii daily, you’ll find plenty of options to fit your itinerary. 

Chances are you’ll also be able to find a direct flight to the island you plan to visit. Otherwise, you’ll have a quick layover in Honolulu before taking a short “island hop” to your primary destination. 

⚠️ Important 2026 Update — REAL ID Required for Domestic Flights As of May 7, 2025, you need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another approved form of ID to board a domestic flight to Hawaii. Check the top right corner of your driver’s license. If you see a star symbol, you are compliant. No star means you will need to use your passport instead or update your license before your trip. US citizens do not need a passport for Hawaii since it’s a US state, but standard ID requirements still apply.

✔ Five major airports in Hawaii

Each island in Hawaii has at least one major airport. Depending on which island you want to visit, you’ll want to look for one of these five airports.

🛫 Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, Honolulu, Oahu (HNL)

Only 10 miles away from Waikiki, this airport has 4 runways and a charming indoor/outdoor design.  

🛫 Kahului Airport, Maui (OGG)

The main airport in Maui is a small, easy-to-navigate airport with a welcoming atmosphere and casual vibe. It’s not unusual to see birds flying around the gates! 

🛫 Hilo International Airport, Hawaii Island (ITO)

2 miles east of Hilo, this is a comfortable dual-level airport. Enjoy the floral and tropical plants that decorate the terminals. 

🛫 Ellison Onizuko Kona International Airport, Hawaii Island (KOA)

With runways constructed in the middle of lava fields, this airport has an open-air terminal structure and mobile outdoor stairs for disembarking the planes.

🛫 Lihue Airport, Kauai (LIH)

This centrally located airport is surrounded by stunning scenery. 

Several movies have been filmed in this airport! 

🚢 By cruise ship

Another popular way to get to Hawaii is to take a cruise! This is the way to go if you want to get to Hawaii without flying. Most cruises to Hawaii visit four islands— Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island. 

Departing from the West Coast, typical round-trip cruises last 15 nights.  

No matter what time of year you go, the climate will be temperate and warm.

🌸 Spring (April to June): One of the best times for a Hawaii cruise with lower prices, ideal weather, and smaller crowds than peak season. Be aware that Golden Week (late April to early May) brings a significant influx of Japanese tourists to Hawaii, with hotels and beaches getting very busy and prices spiking. In 2026, Golden Week runs from April 29 to May 6.

☀️ Summer (June to August): Peak family season with the hottest and driest weather and the best surf conditions. Cruises are busier and more expensive but the weather is reliably excellent.

🍂 Autumn (September to November): A sweet spot for cruise deals with fewer crowds than summer. Good weather continues through October, with more cruise departures giving you better scheduling options.

❄️ Winter (December to March): The busiest and most expensive season, especially around the holidays. The payoff is humpback whale season, with whales arriving in mid-December and staying through early March. One of the most spectacular wildlife experiences Hawaii offers.

Which cruise lines go to Hawaii? Major cruise lines, including Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line, operate Hawaii cruises departing from West Coast ports. Most itineraries visit four islands (Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island) over 15 nights round-trip.

⛵ By boat

Sadly, there’s no car ferry to Hawaii, so the only other way is by boat. If you have a sailboat and want to take a trip to Hawaii, you’ll need to plan for at least 2 weeks. 

👉🏼 What to bring for a boat trip to Hawaii?

You’ll need lightweight cotton and moisture-wicking shirts for a boat trip to Hawaii. 

Lightweight bottoms (shorts, skirts, etc.). 

Multiple swimsuits, cover-ups, and sunglasses or hats. 

Bringing a lightweight sweater and one nice outfit is a good idea.

How can I drive in Hawaii?

While it’s possible to have a fantastic vacation in Hawaii without driving, I highly recommend renting a car to get the most out of the islands!

You’ll find Hawaii to be a beautiful and enjoyable place to drive. The aloha spirit is present on the roads, and they’re easy to navigate.  

🚗 Rent a car in Hawaii

To rent a car in Hawaii, you must have a valid driver’s license and a credit card and be at least 21 years of age. 

Trying to figure out where to start? Check out Discover Cars for some great deals! Plus, they offer free cancellation, which is always a plus. 

👍🏻 Pros of driving in Hawaii

Hawaii is a great place to drive. Driving in Hawaii is significantly less stressful than in other areas of the world or even the mainland USA. 

People are happy to let you merge into your lane, and it’s rare to hear anyone honk. 

“Island time,” the slower-paced lifestyle inherent to the islands, is reflected in the speed limits. 

The freeway on Oahu typically has a maximum speed limit of 55 mph! Renting a car in Oahu it’s also the best way to explore the island. You can check out this 5-day Oahu Itinerary for some inspiration.

👎🏻 Cons of driving in Hawaii

One of the biggest cons of driving in Hawaii is the gas prices. With prices close to $5 per gallon, you’ll be spending a pretty penny filling up your tank. 

Driving in parts of Hawaii is more stressful if you’re not used to single-lane roads and one-way bridges. 

📅 Book State Parks in Advance. Non-Hawaii residents must book and pay entrance fees in advance for several popular state parks, including Haena State Park in Kauai, Waianapanapa State Park on the Road to Hana in Maui, Iao Valley in Maui, and Diamond Head in Oahu. Time slots are released 30 days in advance and sell out quickly. If driving to any of these is on your itinerary, book as early as possible.

👉🏼 What are the roads to take for a scenic ride in Hawaii?

One of Hawaii’s most famous scenic drives is on my home island of Maui!

The Road to Hana is a winding state highway that follows the northern coast of Maui by the rainforest, beaches, waterfalls, and gorgeous cliffside views. 

On Oahu, the Kamehameha Highway takes you through Diamond Head State Monument, Punchbowl Crater, and beautiful beaches. 

Check out the Mauna Loa Road scenic drive on Highway 11 west from Volcano Village on the Big Island. This drive will take you past a koa forest and get panoramic views from the top. 

Can You Drive Between the Hawaiian Islands?

No. You cannot drive between the Hawaiian islands. They are separated by vast stretches of the Pacific Ocean, with distances ranging from 7 to over 100 miles apart, and there are no roads, bridges, or tunnels connecting them.

To travel between islands, you have two options:

By air: Inter-island flights are short (30 to 50 minutes) and frequent. Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest Airlines both operate regular routes between the main islands. Book in advance, especially during peak season.

By ferry: There are only two ferry services in Hawaii, one between Maui and Lanai and one between Maui and Molokai, and both are passenger only with no vehicle transport. There is no car ferry service between the main islands.

Shipping your car between islands: If you need your car on multiple islands, inter-island car shipping is possible via barge or cargo vessel, but it’s expensive, time-consuming, and rarely worth it for a vacation. For most visitors, renting a separate car on each island is far more practical.

Is Hawaii worth visiting?

Hawaii is definitely worth visiting! No matter what kind of vacation you’re interested in, there’s something for you. Relax on the beach, hike in the mountains, snorkel, or take a boat ride; Hawaii has it all. 

📌 When is the best time to go to Hawaii?

The best time to visit Hawaii is between March and September. You’ll get the highest temperatures and the lowest amount of rain. If you’re interested in surfing, there are usually southwest swells during the summertime.

If you want to see the humpback whales, come between December and March. The humpbacks migrate to Hawaii every year and give birth/mate in warm shallow waters.  

📌 What to bring when going to Hawaii?

Casual clothing and comfortable shoes are a must for any Hawaii trip! Bring a hat or sunglasses and a camera to capture the beautiful sights.

Reef-safe mineral sunscreen — not optional, it’s the law. Hawaii has banned the sale of sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate because these chemicals harm coral reefs and marine life. Maui County and the Big Island have even stricter rules requiring only mineral based sunscreens using zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Buy yours before arriving as hotel gift shops charge significantly more. Target and Walmart stock good options at normal prices.

Things to Do in Hawaii

Hawaii has so much to offer beyond organized tours. Here are some of the best experiences across the main islands, a mix of free activities and top-rated tours.

1. Free and self-drive experiences worth planning for:

Road to Hana, Maui — One of Maui’s best scenic drives, winding past waterfalls, bamboo forests, and black sand beaches. Rent a car and go at your own pace, and allow a full day. Oahu also has some of amazing scenic drives that you should not miss.

Diamond Head Summit Trail, Oahu — A short but rewarding hike to the top of the iconic volcanic crater with panoramic views of Honolulu and Waikiki. Book your entry in advance as non-residents pay a fee and slots sell out.

Waimea Canyon, Kauai — Called the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, this is one of the most dramatic landscapes in Hawaii and is completely free to drive through.

Volcanoes National Park, Big Island — Watch active lava flows and walk through ancient lava tubes. One of the most unique natural experiences in the United States.

Sunrise at Haleakala, Maui — Watching the sun rise above the clouds from the summit of a dormant volcano is unforgettable. Book up to 60 days in advance as spots are very limited.

2. Enjoy a sunset coastal view as you experience Hawaiian traditions

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Enjoy a traditional Hawaiian Luau with amazing coastal views at Paradise Cove in Oahu! Enjoy 3 hours of authentic Hawaiian food and entertainment with musicians, hula, and fire dancers.

This luau is an unforgettable way to experience Hawaiian culture. Plus, who doesn’t love a reason to dress up?

3. Swim in a sunken volcano and snorkel with turtles

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I’ve been lucky enough to get to go out to Molokini a variety of times.

You get to snorkel in the sunken crater and see tons of fish and brilliant coral. I’ve seen a couple of moray eels and even an octopus while at Molokini! 

A second stop on the tour will take you to another coral reef, where you’ll see green sea turtles swimming around or getting their shells cleaned. Food and drink are provided. 

4. Relax in a Kaanapali sunset luau and witness a traditional Polynesian dance show

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One of the best Luau on the island of Maui, the Kaanapali Luau has a fantastic backdrop and even better Polynesian dancers and traditional foods.

Sample all the different flavors traditional to the islands at the all-you-can-eat-buffet and learn about the rich history.

Weather and ocean conditions permitting, you’ll also witness a cliff diver leap into the ocean from BlackRock just offshore. 

5. Visit the historical site of the Pearl Harbor National Memorial

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If you are in Oahu, you must visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial.

Explore the exhibits that take you back to 1941 and see the USS Arizona Memorial. Learn about the pivotal moments in US history during WWII and pay your respects to the fallen heroes.  

6. Go on a whale-watching cruise in Maui

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A whale-watching cruise is an absolute must-do during the winter months in Maui. Hop onboard your vessel in Lahaina and learn all about these majestic creatures. 

Naturalists on board will explain what the whales are doing, and you’ll even get the opportunity to hear them singing. 

You’ll see a whale breach up close and personal if you’re lucky. Truly inspiring!

7. Snorkel with manta rays and watch the Konta sunset

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For a unique experience on the Big Island, look no further than a night snorkel with manta rays.

Watch the sunset and then get taken with your expert guide to an offshore location where you’ll hop in the water and see giant manta rays feeding and interacting. Talk about cool! 

Frequently Asked Questions on How to Get to Hawaii

How many days should I stay in Hawaii?

While 5-7 days in Hawaii is reasonable, I recommend staying for at least 10 days due to its remote location. 

That gives you plenty of time to adjust to the time difference, and you don’t have to choose between a relaxing beach vacation and adventuring around your chosen island. 

Can you drive between the Hawaiian islands?

No. The Hawaiian islands are separated by the Pacific Ocean and there are no roads, bridges, or tunnels between them. Inter-island travel is by plane (30 to 50 minute flights) or by passenger ferry on limited Maui routes. If you need a car on multiple islands, renting separately on each island is far more practical than shipping your own vehicle between them.

Do you need a passport to fly to Hawaii?

No. Hawaii is a US state so US citizens do not need a passport. However, as of May 7, 2025, you do need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license to board domestic flights. Check your license for a star in the top right corner. If there is no star, bring your passport instead.

Is sunscreen banned in Hawaii?

Sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate are banned in Hawaii to protect coral reefs. Only reef-safe mineral sunscreens using zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are permitted. Buy yours before arriving as hotel gift shops charge significantly more.

Which is the best Hawaiian island to visit for first-timers?

Maui is widely recommended for first-time visitors. It offers a great balance of stunning beaches, excellent restaurants, world-class whale watching (December to March), the Road to Hana scenic drive, and a good range of accommodation from budget to luxury. Oahu is better if you want more nightlife, shopping, and urban energy. Kauai is the most naturally beautiful and best for hiking. The Big Island is best for adventure and volcanoes.

When should you avoid Hawaii?

Avoid Christmas and New Year if you want lower prices and smaller crowds, as this is the absolute peak season. Also, avoid Golden Week (late April to early May), when Japanese holiday travelers significantly increase the crowds in Waikiki and other popular areas.

How long is the flight to Hawaii from the mainland US?

Flight time to Hawaii depends on where you are departing from. From the West Coast, expect a flight of around 5 to 6 hours from Los Angeles or San Francisco.

From the East Coast the flight is considerably longer at around 10 to 11 hours from New York or Miami, usually with a connection on the West Coast. From the middle of the country, such as Dallas or Chicago, plan for around 8 to 9 hours total including a connection.

Direct flights to Honolulu are the most widely available, with direct routes to Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island also operating from several West Coast cities.

Do you need a rental car in Hawaii?

It depends entirely on which island you are visiting and what you plan to do. On Oahu, it is perfectly possible to get around without a car using public buses, rideshares, and taxis, especially if you are staying in Waikiki.

On Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island, a rental car is essential. Public transport on these islands is very limited, and many of the best beaches, hikes, and attractions are only accessible by car. If you plan to drive the Road to Hana, visit Volcanoes National Park, or explore Waimea Canyon, you will need your own vehicle.

Booking a rental car well in advance is strongly recommended, especially during peak season when availability drops quickly and prices rise sharply.

Can you drive to Hawaii? Final Thoughts

 Although you can’t drive to Hawaii, this beautiful state is well worth visiting.

Take a cruise ship or a boat, or fly over to these remote and gorgeous islands in the middle of the Pacific and enjoy the temperate climates, rugged mountains, and amazing marine life!

 Truly a magical place, Hawaii has such a rich culture and diverse offerings. It’s the sort of place you can keep coming back to again and again.