Hawaii beach Honolulu city travel landscape of Waikiki beach and Diamond Head mountain peak at sunset

Hawaii Travel Guide- Best Flights & Must-Visit Spots

Summary

  • Best way to explore Hawaii: Fly into Honolulu and island hop between Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island

  • Best airlines to fly to Hawaii: Qantas, Jetstar, Hawaiian Airlines, Fiji Airways, American Airlines

  • Cheapest time to visit: February, March, and shoulder seasons (April–June, Sept–Nov)

  • Must-do experiences: Surfing events (WSL), volcano tours, beach hopping, road trips

  • Cheapest route from Australia is Sydney

Hawaii isn’t just a destination, it’s a full-on experience. Think surf culture, volcanoes, insanely beautiful road trips, beach sunsets, and some of the most crystal clear water.

If you’re planning a trip from Australia, the real secret isn’t just getting there, it’s how you explore once you arrive.

Getting to Hawaii: Best Airlines from Australia

 

For Aussie travellers, most trips start with a flight into Honolulu (Oahu), the main hub and usually the cheapest option.

Best airlines to fly to Hawaii:

Qantas - Direct Sydney → Honolulu flights

Hawaiian Airlines - Strong for both international + interisland routes

Fiji Airways - Stopover via Fiji

American Airlines / Air Canada – Via US or Canada

Tip: If you’re planning to island hop, Hawaiian Airlines is super convenient since they dominate local routes.

Bali Hai from Tunnels Beach, Kauai, Hawaii

Island Hopping in Hawaii (The Fun Part)

 

One of the best things about Hawaii? There are so many beautiful islands to visit and explore.

Flights between islands are:

Kauai (LIH): 30–40 min flight

Maui (OGG): 25–30 min flight

Big Island (KOA/ITO): 40–45 min flight


These flights are: 

  • Frequent daily

  • Easy to book

 
Most popular island hopping routes:
  • Honolulu to Maui (beaches & Road to Hana)

  • Honolulu to Kauai (lush, nature-heavy, unreal views)

  • Honolulu to Big Island (volcanoes + black sand beaches)

Best Places to Visit in Hawaii

Bali Hai from Tunnels Beach, Kauai, Hawaii

Oahu (Honolulu & Waikiki)

Waikiki is the heart of Oahu, known for its iconic beach, buzzing nightlife, and easy access to some of Hawaii’s most famous attractions. It’s the perfect base if you want a mix of relaxation and city energy.

Excursions to do:

Explore more excursion options for Oahu, Hawaii here.

rainbow scenic view over the popular surfing place Sunset Beach, North Shore, Oahu, Hawaii, USA

North Shore

Famous for its massive winter waves and laid-back surf culture, the North Shore is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience Hawaii’s legendary surf scene.

Excursions to do:

Explore more excursion options for North Shore Hawaii here.

Sunset View Of Beautiful Tropical Beach, Secret Wedding Beach, Makena Cove, Maui, Hawai

Maui

One of the most scenic drives in the world is located in Maui, the Road to Hana takes you past waterfalls, rainforests, and coastal views that feel straight out of a movie.

Excursions to do:

Explore more excursion options for Maui, Hawaii here.

Turtle Bay of The Big Island of Hawai'i

Big Island (Hawaii Island)

Home to active volcanoes and lava fields, this is one of the most unique experiences in Hawaii.

Excursions to do:

Explore more excursion options for Big Island Hawaii here.

Cheapest Time to Visit Hawaii

If you want to save money (and avoid crowds), timing is everything.

Cheapest months to visit Hawaii

February to March

Best value seasons to visit Hawaii

April to June

September to November

Most expensive time to travel to Hawaii

December & early January

Flights and accommodation to Hawaii spike during
  • Christmas

  • New Year

  • School holidays

How to Find Cheap Flights to Hawaii (Tips & Tricks)
  • Book 1–3 months in advance

  • Fly mid-week

  • Compare airlines (prices vary a lot)

  • Be flexible with dates

Why Honolulu is usually cheapest
  • Most airline competition

  • Largest airport in Hawaii

  • Best hub for island hopping

Cheapest Places to Fly To and From Australia to Hawaii

Sydney is the cheapest place to fly from Australia to Hawaii.

Compare Flights & Start Planning

With so many airlines, routes, and islands to choose from, comparing your options can make a big difference.

At Mix & Match AU, you can:
  • Compare flights to Hawaii

  • Find interisland routes

  • Build a flexible itinerary

Start planning your Hawaii trip and find the best flight deals for your travel style. Book with Mix & Match AU today!

{{ errors.first('travellers') }}
{{ errors.first('from') }}
{{ errors.first('to') }}
{{ getDateErrors() }}
You have entered a city pair more than once, please complete separate bookings for return journeys.
{{settings.bookingFormOffMsg}}

Inspirational Blogs

Get inspired with what to see and do once booking your flights