Solo Travel Hawaii: Your Complete Guide to Safety, Adventure, and Where to Stay
Many people are discovering the joys of solo travel.
Just because you don’t have someone to join you, it doesn’t mean you should forgo traveling.
In fact, you might find it to be even more enjoyable.
If you’ve never tried it, solo travel to Hawaii is perfect for first-timers, and our guide will reveal all you need to know when it comes to safety, adventure, and where to stay.
Why Hawaii is the Perfect Solo Travel Destination
First, you might want to know why Hawaii is a standout destination for a solo travel vacation.
Solo travel to Hawaii brings the chance to experience the true Aloha spirit, unwind, connect with nature, and do some self-reflection, although there are plenty of opportunities to meet other travelers too.
As with any solo travel destination, you’ll have the freedom to enjoy your own itinerary in Hawaii, choosing what to do and when.
Hawaii solo travel can also be a unique cultural experience that’s enriching and even transformative.
Plus, if you stay in Honolulu, the capital of Hawaii on the island of Oahu, you’ll have plenty of transport options if you don’t want to get behind the wheel yourself.
So, what activities and experiences are a must while enjoying solo travel in Hawaii?
Solo Travel Hawaii: Must-Do Activities & Experiences
Whether you’re looking for thrilling outdoor adventures, experiences that will immerse you in Hawaiian culture, opportunities to enhance wellness and relax, or perhaps a bit of all of the above, there are many options ideal for those who want to enjoy Hawaii solo travel.
Adventurous Activities Ideal for Solo Travel in Hawaii
* Hike Diamond Head – it’s a well-maintained trail with plenty of traffic, so even if you’re a female enjoying solo travel in Hawaii, it’s a safe trek while providing a big reward with awe-inspiring views of the Waikiki coast and the endless blue of the Pacific.
* Snorkel at Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve – If you want to snorkel alongside the official state fish of Hawaii, the colorful humuhumunukunukuapua’a fish, green sea turtles, and more, joining a guide for a group or private tour that comes with all the equipment you need is perfect for solo travel to ensure safety.
* Learn to surf – if you aren’t an experienced surfer but want to learn how to ride the waves in Hawaii, there may be no better place than Waikiki Beach, with the gentle waves perfect for beginners who are enjoying solo travel on the island of Oahu.
Cultural Immersion Experiences
* With communal tables for those who want to mingle with others enjoying Hawaii solo travel (along with options for those who want to keep to themselves), there is no better way to immerse yourself in the local culture than by experiencing a traditional luau, complete with soulful Hawaiian music, Polynesian dancers, and a mouthwatering Hawaiian feast.
* If the hula performances inspire you, look for the complimentary hula classes that are held in the morning on the Waikiki Beach Walk Plaza, which are rooted in sharing the Aloha spirit – it’s the best way to learn firsthand what it’s all about during your solo travel in Hawaii.
* Become an honorary Hawaiian islander for the day by immersing yourself in the world of Pacific Island cultures at the Polynesian Cultural Center, which includes the chance to participate in presentations like the drums of Aotearoa.
Remember, a Hawaii solo travel vacation doesn’t have to mean simply being a bystander, with the warm and welcoming people often encouraging visitors to take part in their time-honored traditions.
Relaxation and Wellness Activities
Yoga
Yoga on the beach is a great way to enhance wellness while immersing yourself in the beauty of Hawaii.
Sunset Yoga Hawaii, located near the Waikiki Aquarium, offers daily sessions for practice with a stunning sunset view.
Yoga Under the Palms and Over the Rainbow Yoga also hosts sessions on or at the edge of Waikiki’s golden sands.
Massage
Blue Sky Thai Massage & Spa Waikiki Beachwalk is just a minute’s walk from the beach and about five minutes on foot from FIRST CABIN INTERNATIONAL HAWAII.
Solo Travel Hawaii: Essential Tips
Safety and Security for Hawaii Solo Travelers
Male and female solo travelers alike will find Hawaii to be a safe place for a getaway, simply by following the general common sense rules you would anywhere else.
The crime rate in Hawaii is relatively low, and locals are known to be kind and welcoming, but it’s always essential to prioritize safety.
*Keep valuables in your accommodation (or hotel safe).
*If you park anywhere with valuables in your rental car, be sure to put them in the trunk before you reach your destination.
*Keep close watch on any belongings at the beach.
*Never turn your back on the ocean; waves can be unpredictable.
*If snorkeling, avoid rough water and consider joining a group tour if you aren’t confident on your own.
*Stick to the trafficked, well-marked trails when hiking and inform someone of your itinerary before header out.
*Whether hiking or not, it’s always a good idea to share your travel plans with trusted family or friends and keep them updated on your whereabouts.
*Research accommodation carefully before booking by reading reviews to assess safety features, location, and reputation; hotels with 24/7 reception or other staff presence can help ensure safety and security.
Money-Saving Strategies
While Hawaii isn’t the cheapest place for solo travel, there are some money-saving strategies you can use for a more budget-friendly trip.
Time Your Trip During a ‘Shoulder’ Season
While there isn’t really a “low season” in Hawaii, there are slower periods where you can generally find the best deals on hotel rooms: April-May and September-November.
Take Advantage of Public Transport
If you stay in Waikiki, you really don’t need a rental car unless you plan to explore the entire island – and, in that case, you can rent one just for the day, which will not only save you on the rental total, but also potentially expensive parking.
We’ve provided a complete guide to Waikiki public transportation here.
Book Well in Advance
When it comes to booking your flight to Hawaii, the trick is to book well in advance, meaning the sooner you book, the cheaper your airfare is likely to be.
The same typically applies to most types of accommodation, and you’ll obviously have a wider selection of properties to choose from the farther ahead you book.
Dining Out
To save money on dining out, picking up supplies for a picnic at a local grocery store or farmers’ market is a great way to put together an affordable (and scenic) lunch.
Cafes with plate lunches, food trucks, convenience stores with ready-to-eat options (popular with locals as the offerings are typically much better than you’ll find on the mainland), and venues with happy hour deals can all help reduce your dining costs.
Meeting People and Social Opportunities
If you’d rather not spend your entire time in Hawaii solo, there are plenty of ways to meet up with other people.
Joining organized group tours and experiences, chatting with people in common spaces such as a lounge at your accommodation, and even striking up a conversation at the beach or in a coffee shop are just a few of the options.
Where to Stay: Accommodation Options for Hawaii Solo Travelers
The best type of accommodation for solo travel in Hawaii really depends on the type of experience you hope to enjoy.
If you have a big budget and are looking for a high-end resort with lots of entertainment and nightlife options on-site for mingling with other guests, you’ll have many choices in Waikiki, but we think there are better things to spend your money on.
Most Hawaii travelers spend the majority of their time outside of a hotel room, so it doesn’t make sense to pay an arm and a leg.
You could rent a private room in someone’s home, but there are also hostels and capsule hotels to consider for solo travel in Hawaii that can give you more bang for your buck.
Why Capsule Hotels Are Perfect for Hawaii Solo Travel
Rooms at a capsule hotel focus on affordability, efficiency, and functionality, typically providing enough space to ensure a peaceful night’s rest, with a comfortable single bed and a minimalist aesthetic.
You’ll usually have a door for privacy, power outlets and USB ports for your electronic gadgets, and perhaps air-conditioning, a TV, and access to shared spaces such as bathrooms with showers and a lounge for socializing or relaxation.
That’s all you really need when the main reason you’re here is to enjoy the beautiful beaches, spend time on and in the water, and experience the local culture.
First Cabin International Hawaii: Your Solo Travel Base
As the first luxury pod hotel in Waikiki, FIRST CABIN INTERNATIONAL HAWAII is your ideal solo travel base.
Rooms are divided into all-gender, women-only, and men-only areas, something that a solo female traveler is sure to appreciate.
Plus, all rooms lock from the inside and include access to a private locker and personal security box.
In the shared lounge, you can meet and chat with other travelers if you’d like, as well as charge your devices, access free Wi-Fi, while the bathrooms are fully equipped with hairdryers and even straighteners.
And, did we mention the private sauna?
It’s perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring!
Summary
By following the tips and recommendations in our guide, solo travel in Hawaii is sure to provide an unforgettable experience – you might even find yourself returning to enjoy it again and again!
