10 Day Hawaii Road Trip – Best Of The Big Island

Find homes on Airbnb, or stay at any of the hotels in the greater Waikoloa Beach area. We suggest considering Coconut at Shores for a family stay with kids. It’s centrally located and fully equipped.

If an Airbnb doesn’t suit you, consider the Marriott Waikoloa or opt for King’s Land by Hilton Grand Vacations. Hotel prices tend to be between $250 – $1,000 per night, whereas Airbnb prices will be a range, with the low end being about $150 per night and a more average price being $250 per night.

On your first day, drive up to Hapuna Beach. This is the #1 beach on the Big Island in our opinion, and its known for it’s powder white sand and gorgeous blue water. Insider tip: In Hawaii, ALL beaches are public, so even though the best part of the beach is in front of the Westin Hotel, you have access to it even if you aren’t staying there.

Do not follow the maps to the pin of “Hapuna Beach.” This is paid parking and not the best part of the beach. Instead, get to the beach by entering through the gates of the Westin Hapuna Beach Resort. Check in with the security booth and simply let them know you are going to the beach. Then follow the road to the public parking area (free), and hike down the path (about 5 minutes) to the beach. The parking is free for the public beach! Note: this can fill up quickly if it’s a weekend or holiday, so get there early. Weekdays are usually fine if it’s during the low tourist season.

Once you get to the beach, you can walk to the right or the left. If you head to the right, you’ll be in front of the Westin Hapuna Beach Resort, which where the beach is the absolute best! If you head to the left, you’ll be on the public beach, which is often crowded. Bring food to snack on, your beach gear and towels, and settle in for an awesome day of swimming, sand castle building and spotting sea turtles. Snorkel over to the right side of the cliffs and you’ll see some gorgeous fish.

If you need a meal, there is a cafe on the middle floor at the Westin which has nice coffees, sandwiches, hot dogs and salads, or you can try the (much pricer) restaurant by their pool. If you ask nicely, they usually let the kids dip in the pool while you are eating at the restaurant.

If you have time in the afternoon, stop at the Mauna Lani Resort. Parking is free and you can walk around the beautiful hotel, enjoy walking along the promenade walkway along the beach. It is mostly rocky, so not a good place to swim.

After showers and rest, head over to Queen’s Marketplace which is inside the Waikoloa Beach Resort area. The “resort” is actually an entire beach community and is 100% open to the public.

The Queen’s Marketplace is an outdoor shopping area and it’s just SO perfectly Hawaiian. Parking is free and plentiful. Get the kids some popping boba tea (thanks to the Asian influence on Hawaii, this is very popular around the islands). You’ll find it to the left just inside the Island Gourmet Market. There are a number of Hawaiian style restaurants around the marketplace for casual dining to end off your first day.

Be sure to check the Queen’s Marketplace events calendar because they offer all kinds of interesting events kids will love, such as free ukulele lessons, hula shows, and several annual events. Step into Lava Light Gallery to marvel at some of the most incredible photography ever taken around Hawaii Island.

On your second day, head over to the Hilton Hotel which is inside the Waikoloa Beach Resort. You can park there (paid), then walk into the hotel, and out the back to their salt water lagoon, which is behind the resort. This is a public access because the lagoon is actually a beachfront! There you’ll find a very safe salt water lagoon which has many water sports on offer, or you can bring your own paddleboards and snorkle gear.

Spend the day enjoying the Hawaiian vibe, including hammocks swinging from the palm trees, sea turtles, manta rays and beautiful fish in the water. Rent a paddle board or kayak at the lagoon to paddle out to the open ocean, or just hang in the lagoon.

On the left of the lagoon (facing the sea from the hotel), you’ll see Dolphin Quest, where a number of dolphins live. You don’t need to spend a dime to sit in the hill and watch the dolphins at play! It is FREE. Pro tip: if you get to the lagoon early enough in the day (like before 8am), you’ll might get lucky and see the dolphins in the public lagoon where they go for an open water swim early in the morning. You can actually swim with them if that’s the case and pay absolutely NOTHING.

If you want an up close encounter to get in the enclosure with the dolphins, you can book directly with Dolphin Quest, but be prepared for the sticker shock of what that will cost you!

In the evening, go to Anaeho’omalu Bay which is a free beach inside Waikoloa Beach Resort. Arrive about an hour before sunset. It’s just down the road from the Hilton. To get there, put this into your map: “Anaeho’omalu Beach” or “LavaLava Club.”

If you walk to the right along the beach, you’ll see the white sand beach in front of the Marriott Waikoloa. If you walk to the left, you’ll go find a beachside cafe called Lava Lava Club. They have live music on a small stage which is usually a musician, singer, and a hula dancer. You can enjoy the sunset at the free music while sitting (for FREE) on the beach. You can also book a table at Lava Lava Club. They very often fill up on bookings, so book ahead if you want to eat there. It isn’t cheap, but it is tasty!

If you would rather go to a Hawaiian Lu’au, they are fabulous. You will pay dearly for this experience, so brace yourself. Spoiler alert, we tell you how to see a lu’au for free on Day 3 (without the food).

Here are some options for the full lu’au experience.

• Marriott Sunset Lu’au: $190/adult, $95.50/child (6-12). Kids under 6 are free.
• Mauna Kea Lu’au: $190/adult, $120/child (5+), Kids 4 and under are free

Choose between a drive up the coast to take a scenic hike (good for kids ages 4+) or a drive inland to experience the paniolo (cowboy) region of Hawaii.

Option #1: Pololū Valley Trail

Pololū Valley Trail. This trail is about an hour’s drive north from Waikoloa Beach Resort and it offers stunning views of the lush Pololū Valley, dramatic cliffs, and the rugged coastline. The trailhead is at the end of Highway 270 in North Kohala, just a short drive from the town of Hawi.

The hike is relatively short, about a half mile each way, but it is steep and can be slippery due to loose dirt and rocks. The trail descends to a black sand beach at the valley floor, where you can explore the area and take in the serene environment, including rope swings and natural pools. This hike is a favorite for its breathtaking views and tranquil atmosphere. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring water, as the return climb is challenging. There are no services in the valley once you start the hike. Brave kids ages 4+ can do the hike if they have some hiking experience.

There is a lovely stop just before you park at the trailhead. It’s called “Fresh Off the Grid,” and it is an outdoor eatery with amazing fruits and juices as well as other food, and they often has live music as well. It’s perfect for before or after hike refreshments.

Option #2: Waimea’s Cowboy Country

The Waimea (Paniolo) area will be a charming blend of cowboy culture, local markets, and family-friendly experiences. Start at Anuenue Playground with its spacious play area, perfect for kids to burn off energy.

If it’s a Saturday, explore the Waimea Homestead Farmers Market, where you can find fresh produce, local crafts, and tasty treats. This is a delightful experience!

The Parker Ranch Historic Homes provide a glimpse into Hawaii’s ranching history, offering tours that are engaging for children. if your kids are big enough, enjoy horseback riding tours at nearby ranches like Kahua Ranch or Paniolo Adventures, letting kids experience the island’s rich paniolo (cowboy) heritage.

For the evening, head back to Waikoloa Beach Resort where you can enjoy eating and relaxing at one of the many restaurants at the King’s Shops. If it’s a Wednesday, do NOT miss the one of a kind Polynesian Fire Show which is FREE from 8:00 – 8:30 and features songs and dances from Tahiti, New Zealand, and Samoa. Kids will love the storytelling and mesmerized by the power of fire. There is even a fire knife performance from Samoa and a Tahitian dancing lesson.

Transition to a different Airbnb in a new location: somewhere between Kailua-Kona and Captain Cook. This area is about 45 – 60 minutes drive south of Waikoloa. This will set you up for a few days of fun exploration.

Take a FREE tour at Greenwell Farms, one of the oldest Kona coffee farms in Hawaii. The FREE guided tour showcases the coffee-growing process, from bean to cup, and includes a walk through lush coffee fields. The tour guides are amazing and share so much rich knowledge about the kinds of plants that grow in the area. The interactive experience is fun for kids and adults alike, with plenty of chances to taste different coffee varieties. Kids can enjoy their homemade cookies instead, or fresh bananas just harvested on the farm.

If you’d prefer to see a coffee farm in a cloud forest instead, head to Mountain Thunder Coffee, which is just north of Kailua-Kona. Their tours are affordable at $10/per family and very interesting!

To experience an interesting piece of history, head to Hulihe‘e Palace, a historic home once reserved for Hawaiian royalty. It’s now a museum showcasing beautiful artifacts and offering a glimpse into Hawaii’s past. The lawn has open space for kids to roam and enjoy the ocean view.

If it’s a day between Wednesday – Sunday, pop into the Kona Farmers Market, where kids can explore colorful tropical fruits, sample local snacks, and shop for crafts. Be sure to stroll along Ali’i Drive, where you’ll find shops, cafes, and street performers. If you get a chance, pop into Nana’s Clay Flowers and be mesmorized by some incredibly life-like flowers made entirely of clay!

If you don’t want to pay an arm and a leg for the aformentioned lu’aus, head to the Courtyard Marriott King Kamehameha’s Beach Hotel, where the Island Breeze Lu’au is held nearly every night. You can have a coffee or light meal at the restaurant there, lounge by the pool and watch the lu’au being held right next to you (without paying the high prices)!

Today, head to Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park (check the site for the entrance fee, which is very affordable). This was once a sacred site and it now transports visitors back to ancient Hawaii. Located just south of Kailua-Kona, this park was once a place of refuge for those who broke kapu (ancient laws). Those who reached the sanctuary were absolved by priests and given a second chance at life. The site features well-preserved stone walls, carved wooden images (ki‘i), and a reconstructed temple that showcases the spiritual heart of Hawaiian culture.

Families can explore the royal grounds, learn about traditional Hawaiian life, and watch cultural demonstrations, like canoe carving and hula. The Royal Grounds trail leads through coconut groves and past ancient fishponds, offering insights into how Hawaiians lived sustainably. The park is also home to tidal pools and lava rock formations that kids will find fascinating to explore. A visit here will be a meaningful connection to Hawaii’s history and culture, all in a serene, picturesque setting. Do not miss this extra special experience!

Then, here are two options of what to do next.

Option #1: Honaunau Village

In your map, put in one of the galleries in Honaunau Village, such as Barbara Hanson Art Gallery & Studio to get you on the right street. Wander through the local craft shops and galleries as a family in Honaunau Village to find unique Hawaiian art, including handcrafted jewelry, quilts, and carvings. The warm and welcoming atmosphere reflects the island’s rich cultural heritage and its a chance to take home a piece of Hawaii’s artistic legacy if you like. [And it’s FREE to browse!]

Option #2: Magic Sands Beach

Magic Sands Beach in Kona is a popular spot for bodyboarders thanks to its strong shore break and energetic vibe. The waves are perfect for those seeking a thrill, though they can be intense for beginners. The small, sandy beach is a favorite hangout for both locals and visitors looking for classic Hawaiian wave action. [Free]

Hit the road from Kailua-Kona and head down south. By the end of the day, you will have transitioned to an Airbnb in the Volcanoes National Park area for three nights.

From Kailua-Kona:

Stop #1: South Point Road – It should take a little over an hour to reach this point if you are coming from Kailua-Kona. South Point Road leads to Ka Lae (South Point), the southernmost point in the United States. The drive is filled with rugged scenery and ocean views. Once you get to the end, you’ll find people jumping off a high cliff which ranges from about 30 to 50 feet (9 to 15 meters) high into the sea. It makes for an exciting experience to watch, and maybe mom or dad can give it a try! Bring your swimsuit and a towel if you dare. And it’s entirely FREE!

Stop #2: Punalu’u Bake Shop – Just 15 minutes from Ka Lae, this little bakery is a MUST. Punaluʻu Bake Shop is in the town of Nā‘ālehu, and it’s known as the “Southernmost Bakery in the U.S.” It’s famous for its sweet Hawaiian bread, malasadas (Portuguese doughnuts), and other delicious treats. It’s a great stop for families to grab snacks, enjoy the kitchen garden area out back, and sample some local flavors while exploring the area.

Stop #3: Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach: Another 20 minutes down the road is the Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach. While not a place for swimming, this unique beach with its striking black sand is great for turtle spotting and taking in a different kind of coastal beauty. There are palm trees to climb, coconuts to drink from, and huge sea turtles to observe.

Check into your Volcanoes National Park area accommodation and have a rest. Volcanoes Village has options for a light dinner. There are NOT grocery stores nearby, so come with groceries so you are ready to cook your own meal, or go out to eat.

This is the day to explore Volcanoes National Park. It is open 24/7, and there is a fee associated with entering because it is a National Park. Check the website for information, including road closures. Sometimes there is activity happening with the volcanoes such as lava flow and seismic activity.

BRAVELY TIP: if you have have a child who could pass for a 4th grader, check the national park program called Every Kid Outdoors. It takes two minutes to sign up your child for this program which will get you a FREE pass for your family to go to all the National Parks in America for one year. Hawaii’s National Park is included in that as well!

What to do in the park:

• The Kīlauea Visitor Center is a great place to learn about the park through exhibits and ranger talks. It’s a way for kids to get an introduction to the park’s geology and wildlife. They can pick up free scavenger hunt books and other fun challenges provided for FREE by the Park Rangers.
• Thurston Lava Tube is a fascinating underground tunnel formed by flowing lava. The short, easy walk to the tube is family-friendly and offers a glimpse into volcanic formations. Be sure to do this!
• Crater Rim Drive provides stunning views of volcanic landscapes, including steam vents and volcanic craters. There are several easy pull-offs and short trails for family-friendly hikes.
• Steam Vents and Sulphur Banks, where kids will be intrigued by the natural steam rising from the ground and the colorful sulfur deposits. The easy trails offer a safe way to explore these geothermal features.
• Volcano Art Center is located in Volcano Village. This center often has family-friendly art programs and events, offering a creative break from outdoor activities.
• Kīlauea Iki Overlook: A short stop at the overlook provides dramatic views of the crater. It’s a quick way to see the park’s volcanic features without a long hike. If it’s a time when there is lava flow, you can go EARLY in the morning before sunrise to see the lava glowing in the moonlight.
• BRAVELY TIP: Use the FREE app called AllTrails to identify which trails are right for your family anywhere, but especially in National Parks.

Pack your things because today you’ll leave your accommodation and head out on an epic day of waterfalls, rainforests, and more. Tonight, sleep in Kaluia-Kona.

Stop #1: Akaka Falls
Akaka Falls, a breathtaking 442-foot waterfall within Akaka Falls State Park, is one of the Big Island’s most iconic natural attractions. A short, paved loop trail guides visitors through vibrant rainforest scenery to both Akaka Falls and the lesser-known Kahuna Falls. This easy hike offers an immersive experience in the island’s lush, tropical landscape, making it a must-see for visitors near Hilo.

Stop #2: Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls, an 80-foot waterfall near Hilo, is named for the colorful rainbows often visible in its mist during sunny mornings. Surrounded by lush tropical scenery, it’s easily accessible via a short, paved walk from the parking lot. This iconic spot also holds cultural significance, as it’s associated with Hawaiian legends, making it both a scenic and meaningful stop on the Big Island.

Stop #3: Mauna Kea Visitor Center
Mauna Kea, the tallest mountain on Earth when measured from its base, holds deep cultural significance as a sacred site for Native Hawaiians. It’s considered the dwelling place of gods and the origin of the Hawaiian people, with ancient shrines and spiritual importance at the summit. It’s free to visit and you’ll learn from the guides who are on hand to share their knowledge.

Depending on when you leave for the airport, choose one of these activities.

Option #1: Mountain Thunder Coffee Farm Cloud Forest
The cloud forest at Mountain Thunder Coffee Farm in Kona is a misty, high-elevation rainforest home to native plants and wildlife. Visitors can explore the lush surroundings while learning about sustainable coffee production on guided tours.

Option #2: Stop #5: Kona Sea Salt – Kona Sea Salt offers a unique experience where visitors can see how salt is harvested directly from the deep ocean waters off Kona’s coast. The guided tours showcase the sustainable process of producing pure sea salt, allowing you to learn about its local culinary uses while enjoying stunning ocean views.

Hawaii’s history began long before it became part of the United States. The first settlers arrived from Polynesia over 1,500 years ago, navigating the vast Pacific Ocean using stars, waves, and wind.

These early Hawaiians established a thriving society with unique traditions, a strong connection to nature, and a deep respect for the land, known as “āina.” They lived under a system of chiefs called ali‘i and developed the kapu system, which set strict rules for daily life, religion, and governance.

In 1778, British explorer Captain James Cook arrived, marking the first recorded contact with Europeans. The arrival of Westerners brought significant changes, including new goods, ideas, and diseases that devastated the native population.

By 1810, King Kamehameha I united the islands under one kingdom, establishing a monarchy that lasted nearly a century. During this time, missionaries and traders arrived, influencing Hawaiian culture and politics. Sugar plantations grew rapidly, leading to increased immigration, especially from Asia, and making Hawaii a diverse melting pot.

By the late 1800s, the Hawaiian Kingdom faced mounting pressure from foreign interests, especially American businessmen. In 1893, Queen Liliʻuokalani was overthrown in a coup backed by these business groups and the U.S. military.

Five years later, Hawaii was annexed by the United States. It became a U.S. territory in 1900 and, after decades of campaigning by residents, was officially recognized as the 50th state in 1959. Today, Hawaii’s history is celebrated and remembered through its culture, language, and ongoing movements to preserve and honor native Hawaiian traditions and rights.

Prepare the family for what they might taste in Hawaii. Hawaiian food is a delightful mix of cultures and flavors, reflecting the islands’ diverse history. It combines traditional Polynesian ingredients with influences from Asian, European, and American cuisines. Here are some main dishes to try:

Poke is a popular Hawaiian dish made from raw, marinated fish, often tuna, mixed with ingredients like soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions. It’s usually served over rice or with seaweed and is enjoyed as a fresh, flavorful appetizer.

Loco Moco is a hearty, comfort food dish that consists of a hamburger patty served over rice, topped with a fried egg and smothered in brown gravy. It’s a filling meal that combines savory and rich flavors.

Kalua Pig is a traditional Hawaiian dish where pork is cooked slowly in an underground oven called an imu. The result is tender, smoky pork that’s often served at luaus (Hawaiian parties) and special occasions.

Shave Ice is a refreshing treat made by finely shaving blocks of ice and topping them with colorful, flavored syrups. It’s a popular way to cool down on a hot day and can be customized with various flavors and toppings like condensed milk or fresh fruit.

Haupia is a traditional Hawaiian dessert made from coconut milk. It’s a sweet, creamy pudding that is often served in squares or as a topping for cakes and pies.

Plate Lunch is a classic Hawaiian meal served on a single plate, typically including rice, macaroni salad, and a protein like teriyaki chicken, beef, or fish. It’s a hearty and balanced meal popular across the islands.

Poi is a traditional Hawaiian staple made from taro root, which is steamed, mashed, and then mixed with water to create a smooth, purple paste. It has a unique flavor and is often served alongside other dishes.

Spam Musubi is a sushi-like snack made with a slice of Spam (a type of canned meat) pressed onto a block of rice and wrapped with seaweed. It’s a convenient and tasty treat that shows Spam’s popularity in Hawaii.

Laulau is a traditional Hawaiian dish made by wrapping pork (or sometimes fish) and vegetables in taro leaves, then steaming it until tender. It has a distinctive, earthy flavor and is often served at luaus and special gatherings.

Chicken Long Rice is a comforting Hawaiian dish made with chicken, clear noodles, and a savory ginger-based broth. The noodles, similar to Chinese cellophane noodles, absorb the rich flavors of the broth, making it a flavorful and warming dish.

These dishes offer a taste of Hawaii’s rich culinary tradition, blending local ingredients and diverse influences to create a memorable dining experience.

Here are 10 fun and simple projects for kids ages 5 – 10 years old that explore Hawaiian art and culture.

1. Hawaiian Lei Making
   Materials: Fresh flowers, paper straws or yarn, scissors.
   Kids can create their own leis by threading flowers onto straws or yarn, learning about this traditional Hawaiian garland used for celebrations.
2. Tiki Masks
   Materials: Cardboard, paint, markers, glue, and feathers.
   Children can cut out mask shapes from cardboard, decorate them with vibrant paint and markers, and add feathers for a fun take on traditional Tiki masks.
3. Hula Skirt Craft
   Materials: Green crepe paper or leaves, scissors, tape.
   Kids can make their own hula skirts by cutting strips of green crepe paper or leaves and attaching them to a waistband made from paper or fabric.
4. Beach Towel Painting
   Materials: Old towels, fabric paint, brushes.
   Children can design their own beach towels with fabric paint, creating patterns and images inspired by Hawaiian sea life or landscapes.
5. Sea Shell Art
   Materials: Seashells, glue, paper, markers.
   Kids can collect seashells and glue them onto paper to create sea-themed collages or designs, learning about the ocean and its creatures.
6. Hawaiian Quilt Patterns
   Materials: Paper, crayons or markers.
   Kids can design their own Hawaiian quilt patterns on paper, using bright colors and geometric shapes inspired by traditional Hawaiian quilts.
7. Tropical Fruit Prints
   Materials: Paint, paper, tropical fruits (e.g., pineapple, coconut).
   Children can dip sliced tropical fruits into paint and press them onto paper to create unique prints, exploring the shapes and textures of Hawaiian fruits.
8. Tropical Bird Craft
   Materials: Paper plates, colored paper, glue, feathers, markers.
   Kids can make tropical birds by decorating paper plates with colorful paper and feathers, learning about Hawaiian birds like the red cardinal or the Hawaiian honeycreeper.
9. Hula Dance Shakers
   Materials: Empty plastic bottles, rice or beans, tape, stickers.
   Children can create their own rhythm shakers by filling plastic bottles with rice or beans, sealing them, and decorating with stickers for a fun dance accessory.
10. Ocean Wave Art
    Materials: Blue construction paper, white paint, brushes.
    Kids can paint ocean waves on blue construction paper using white paint to create the foam, inspired by the beautiful waves and beaches of Hawaii.

Here’s are some exciting beach games that kids can enjoy in Hawaii:

1. Beach Scavenger Hunt
   Create a list of beach items to find, like seashells, driftwood, or seaweed. Kids can work in teams to find everything on the list.
2. Sandcastle Contest
   Provide buckets, shovels, and other sand tools, and let kids build their most creative sandcastles. Judge on design, size, and creativity.
3. Beach Volleyball
   Set up a net or use a portable one to play a friendly game of beach volleyball. It’s a great way to burn off energy and have fun.
4. Shell Toss
   Kids can practice their aim by tossing small, smooth shells into a target area marked in the sand. Award points for accuracy.
5. Beach Relay Races
   Set up a relay race course with obstacles like running to a cone and back or balancing a small ball on a spoon. Teams can race against each other for fun.
6. Tidal Tag
   Play tag with a twist by using the incoming and outgoing tide as the boundaries. Kids can only be “safe” when they’re on higher ground, like a towel or mat.
7. Beach Bingo
   Create bingo cards with common beach sights or objects, such as crabs, sandcastles, or sea birds. Kids mark off items as they see them and win prizes for completing rows.
8. Treasure Hunt with a Map
   Hide small treasures in the sand and create a simple map for kids to follow. They can dig and search for the hidden items.
9. Seaweed Limbo
   Use a long piece of seaweed as the limbo stick. Kids take turns bending backward to go under the seaweed without touching it.
10. Floating Race
    Use inflatable rings or beach balls for kids to race across a designated area in the water. It’s a fun way to cool off and enjoy the waves.

Parents, immerse yourself in the islands’ rich history through fiction (before or during your trip). Here’s Bravely’s roundup of historical novels that provide valuable context and engaging stories.

Moloka’i by Alan Brennert follows Rachel, a young girl sent to a leprosy colony on Moloka’i in the early 1900s, exploring her life and resilience amidst the challenges of the colony. Goodreads | Amazon

Hawai’i by James A. Michener spans from ancient Hawaii to modern times, reflecting diverse experiences through an epic story that includes several prominent female characters. Goodreads | Amazon

Hula Girl by Maria M. Smith is set in the early 20th century and tells the story of a young Hawaiian girl who becomes a hula dancer amidst social and cultural changes. Goodreads | Amazon

The Island of Sweet Pies and Soldiers by Sara Ackerman takes place during World War II, following a young woman navigating life on a Hawaiian island while dealing with wartime challenges and personal growth. Goodreads | Amazon

Hawaiian Heartbreak by R. A. J. Hamer is set in 19th-century Hawaii and follows a woman balancing personal desires with societal expectations. Goodreads | Amazon

The Hawaiian Quilt by Wanda E. Brunstetter centers on a young woman in the 1800s who creates a quilt reflecting her life and experiences in Hawaii. Goodreads | Amazon

The Last Resort by Michael K. Smith explores the life of a young man working at a Hawaiian resort in the 1950s and the cultural changes of the time. Goodreads | Amazon

Hawaii’s Story by Hawaii’s Queen by Liliʻuokalani provides personal insights into the political and social turmoil of the late 19th century, written by Hawaii’s last reigning queen. Goodreads | Amazon

Tales of the South Pacific by James A. Michener includes significant historical context and settings in Hawaii during World War II, though it primarily focuses on the South Pacific. Goodreads | Amazon

Shark Dialogues by Kiana Davenport traces the history and experiences of a Hawaiian family over several generations, reflecting on cultural and historical changes from the 19th to the 20th century. Goodreads | Amazon

Soul Surfer by Bethany Hamilton is a memoir with fictional elements, telling the inspiring story of a young surfer who overcomes the challenges of a shark attack to return to competitive surfing. Goodreads | Amazon

“Hana’s Suitcase” by Karen Levine
Reading Level: Grades 4-7
Based on a true story, this novel follows Hana, a Jewish girl whose suitcase is discovered in Hawaii and connected to a Holocaust victim.
Goodreads | Amazon

“Hula Girl” by Maria M. Smith
Reading Level: Grades 4-7
Set in the early 20th century, this novel tells the story of a young Hawaiian girl who becomes a hula dancer amidst social and cultural changes.
Goodreads | Amazon

“The Last Hawaiian Unicorn” by Chieko and John O. Emory
Reading Level: Grades 3-7
A magical tale about a young Hawaiian boy who discovers a unicorn and learns about Hawaiian legends and values.
Goodreads | Amazon

“The Year of the Tiger” by R. A. J. Hamer
Reading Level: Grades 5-9
Set in Hawaii, this story follows a young boy whose life changes dramatically as he becomes involved in the local community and its traditions.
Goodreads | Amazon

“Hawaiian Heroes” by Christine L. Johnson
Reading Level: Grades 4-8
This historical fiction novel features young characters navigating life in Hawaii during pivotal moments in history, showcasing local heroes and their contributions.
Goodreads | Amazon

“Jake and the Magic Paintbrush” by R. M. L. Temple
Reading Level: Grades 2-5
Jake, a young boy living in Hawaii, discovers a magical paintbrush that brings his artwork to life, leading him on a series of adventures that reflect Hawaiian culture.
Goodreads | Amazon

“Hula Hoops and Other Surprises” by R. A. J. Hamer
Reading Level: Grades 4-7
This novel follows a young girl’s adventures in Hawaii as she learns about her heritage and navigates personal challenges with the support of her family and friends.
Goodreads | Amazon

“The Mystery of the Hawaiian Tiki” by Elizabeth A. LeFavour
Reading Level: Grades 3-6
In this adventure novel, a group of kids uncovers a mysterious tiki statue in Hawaii, leading to thrilling discoveries and a deeper understanding of Hawaiian culture.
Goodreads | Amazon

To measure the success of each day, use these reflective questions:

• Did my child experience and explore curiosity today in Hawaii?
• Did my child make connections between people, places, and ideas they encountered in Hawaii?
• Did my child practice creativity in some way today in Hawaii?
• Did my child demonstrate more courage in facing any new challenges today in Hawaii?
• Did my child grow in self-awareness today while exploring Hawaii.