A Solo Traveler's Guide To Hawaii

Hawaii is one of those places that’s a bit tough to get around if you’re flying solo. If you use a bit of creativity however, it can be an even more magical experience than going with anyone else.

Grab a scooter

On Hawaiian islands aside from Oahu, hitchhiking is definitely an acceptable form of transportation. Locals can spot rental cars from a mile away and that’s not attention you’ll want to invite. Travel light and rent a moped; it’s the easiest way to get around the islands, whether you’re headed to the beach or the mountains.

Scooter is the best mode of transportation around the islands

Be active

Meet new people

Finding a tribe is so crucial when you’re traveling alone; and this is the perfect place to do it. There’s something in the air here. It’s called the Aloha Spirit and its extremely contagious; affecting everyone from locals to foreign visitors. Finding a group of like-minded people opens the doors to mornings of adventurous hikes and afternoons of refreshing cliff jumping.

Don’t stay at a hotel

Whatever you do, don’t stay at a resort or hotel. It will only isolate you from the exciting and vibrant environment Hawaii has to offer. For a proper experience, check out some of the local hostels. You’re more likely to meet new people this way and find so many other solo travelers just like you.

Learn to be one with nature

In our crazy, busy lives, we often forget to slow down and enjoy what’s in front of us. Sometimes it’s good to let yourself feel small and be awed by nature. Traveling solo in Hawaii leaves you with no distractions and so much peace of mind you won’t know what to do with.

Eat adventurously

Indulge in the crazy, blended food culture here. Hawaii’s long history of Chinese, Portuguese, Filipino, and Japanese influences can be experienced simply by trying out the local and quintessential foods. If you’re feeling extra brave, you can also check out a Kava Bar for a one of a kind Hawaiian experience.

Consider giving back

The Hawaiian islands offer so much to their visitors. The food, culture, and scenery are all gifts from the local community. If you have the time, joining a beach clean up project is a great way to give back and not to mention, extremely rewarding.

Doing your bit to beach clean can be rewarding

Know your limits

Above all, be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. Mustering up the courage to take on a hike like Stairway to Heaven on Oahu might seem like a great moment to capture for Instagram, but if you feel nervous about going it alone and would rather find a group to go with, it’s important to follow your gut. Better safe than sorry.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.