Can You Travel Between Hawaiian Islands By Boat?

Planning a trip to the beautiful Hawaiian Islands and wondering about the best way to explore multiple islands? Can you travel between Hawaiian Islands by boat? Yes, you can travel between some Hawaiian islands by boat, but flying is the most common and convenient option. SIXT.VN is here to guide you through all your inter-island travel options, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable Hawaiian adventure.

Thinking about island hopping in Hawaii? Let SIXT.VN help you plan the perfect trip with services for airport transfers, hotel booking, and tours.

1. Options for Hawaii Island Hopping: Exploring the Paradise

Hawaii offers several exciting ways to experience its diverse islands. Whether you prefer the speed and convenience of air travel, the scenic beauty of a ferry ride, or the relaxed pace of a cruise, there’s an option to suit every traveler’s style. Discover the details of each mode of transportation to make an informed decision for your Hawaiian adventure.

1.1 Flying Between Hawaiian Islands: A Quick Hop

Flying is the most popular and efficient way to island hop in Hawaii. Several airlines offer frequent inter-island flights, making it easy to explore multiple destinations during your trip.

1.1.1 Commercial Airlines Offering Inter-Island Flights: Choose Your Carrier

Here are the primary airlines that facilitate inter-island travel:

1. Hawaiian Airlines: As the largest operator of flights to and from Hawaii, Hawaiian Airlines offers extensive inter-island routes. You can find direct flights between Oahu, Kauai, Maui, and the Big Island. Hawaiian Airlines flies into the major airports on each island: Honolulu, Oahu (HNL), Kahului, Maui (OGG), Lihue, Kauai (LIH), Kona, Hawaii (KOA), and Hilo, Hawaii (ITO).

2. Southwest Airlines: Southwest Airlines provides a budget-friendly option for inter-island travel. You’ll get direct flights between the four major islands. Known for their low-cost fares, they’re generally your cheapest option for inter-island flying (though Hawaiian Airlines has extremely competitive fares).

3. Mokulele Airlines: Mokulele Airlines operates small, turbo-prop planes that fly from the main airports as well as smaller airports on the islands. It is the only airline to fly to both Molokai and Lanai. On the Big Island, it flies out of Hilo (ITO) and Kona (KOA) as well as Waimea-Kohala Airport (MUE). And on Maui, it flies out of both Kahului (OGG) as well as Kapalua (JHM). Just like the other airlines, it also flies out of Honolulu (HNL) and Lihue (LIH).

1.1.2 Considerations When Flying Interisland: Southwest vs. Hawaiian

Here’s a comparison to help you decide between Southwest and Hawaiian Airlines for inter-island flights:

1.1.3 Airports on Each Island: Your Gateway to Paradise

Each Hawaiian island has at least one airport, making island hopping convenient.

• Oahu: Daniel K. Inouye Airport in Honolulu (HNL)
• Maui: Kahului Airport (OGG), Kapalua Airport (JHM)

Kahului Airport OGG Maui Gateway

• Hawai’i (Big Island): Hilo International Airport (ITO), Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA), Waimea-Kohala Airport (MUE)
• Kauai: Lihue Airport (LIH)
• Lana’i: Lana’i Airport (LNY)
• Molokai: Molokai Airport (MKK)

1.1.4 Flight Times Between Hawaiian Islands: Short and Sweet

Here are sample flight times from Honolulu Airport (HNL) on Oahu to other islands, showcasing the efficiency of inter-island flights:

1.2 Taking a Ferry Between the Hawaiian Islands: A Scenic Route

If you’re traveling between Maui and Lanai, you have the option of taking a ferry. Expeditions Lanai operates a ferry service for the 45-minute trip between the two islands. Please note that the ferry used to leave from Lahaina Harbor and now departs and returns to Ma’alaea Harbor. It is running 7 days a week and they are continuing to expand operations and add running times as they are able.

Unfortunately, there is no longer a ferry service to Molokai.

1.3 Cruising Between the Hawaiian Islands: A Relaxing Voyage

If you’re set on seeing multiple islands in a short period of time and you don’t want to fly, taking an inter-island cruise is an option. Norwegian Cruise Line offers options that depart from and return to Oahu, making stops on the neighbor islands.

1.4 Guided Day Trips: Expert-Led Island Hopping

For a hassle-free day trip, consider a guided tour. These tours provide an efficient way to see as much as possible without the stress of making reservations, booking rental cars, or navigating unfamiliar roads. Enjoy a curated experience with all the details taken care of.

2. Is It Easy to Travel Between the Hawaiian Islands? Your Questions Answered

Yes, traveling between the Hawaiian islands is generally easy. The flights are short, typically lasting between 30 to 45 minutes.

Islands Hopping Easy Travel

3. How Much Does It Cost to Travel Between the Hawaiian Islands? Budgeting Your Trip

The cost of inter-island travel can vary, but you can often find affordable flights, especially if you book in advance. Flights can be found as cheap as $39 each way on Hawaiian and Southwest Airlines. $39 is the best we’ve seen. Expect to pay between $50 to $100 for a one-way ticket.

4. How Long Does It Take to Travel Between the Hawaiian Islands? Planning Your Time

While the flights themselves are short, the entire process of island hopping can take 4 to 5 hours, door to door. This includes travel to the airport, security checks, the flight, and picking up a rental car on the new island.

5. Island-Hopping in Hawaii: Fast FAQs

Here are some quick answers to frequently asked questions about traveling between the Hawaiian Islands:

5.1 Are There Ferries Between the Hawaiian Islands?

There is only one ferry between Hawaiian islands and that is the ferry from Maui to Lanai. There used to be a ferry between Maui and Molokai, but that ferry service was discontinued in 2016.

5.2 Cheapest Way to Travel Between Hawaiian Islands?

The cheapest way to travel between Hawaiian islands is to fly. You can find inter-island flights for as little as $39 each way, depending on when you want to travel and how far in advance you book.

5.3 Easiest Way to Travel Between Hawaiian Islands?

For most people, flying is the easiest way to travel between the Hawaiian islands. Southwest, Hawaiian Airlines, and Mokulele Airlines all operate plenty of flights each day that will take you between all of the islands. If you’d prefer to have all of the island-hopping details taken care of for you, then the easiest way to travel between the islands is on a cruise ship.

5.4 What are the benefits of booking inter-island travel with SIXT.VN?

Booking with SIXT.VN offers several benefits, including:

• Convenience: Easily compare and book flights, ferries, and cruises in one place.
• Comprehensive Services: Access a range of travel services, including airport transfers, hotel bookings, and tours.
• Expert Guidance: Receive personalized recommendations and support from our travel experts.

5.5 Can SIXT.VN assist with airport transfers on each island?

Yes, SIXT.VN provides reliable and convenient airport transfer services on all major Hawaiian islands. This ensures a seamless transition from the airport to your hotel, saving you time and hassle.

5.6 Does SIXT.VN offer package deals for island hopping in Hawaii?

Yes, SIXT.VN offers customized package deals for island hopping, including flights, accommodations, and activities. These packages are designed to provide the best value and convenience for your trip.

5.7 How far in advance should I book my inter-island travel?

It’s recommended to book your inter-island travel as early as possible, especially if you’re traveling during peak season. Booking in advance ensures you get the best fares and availability.

5.8 What is the typical luggage allowance for inter-island flights?

Luggage allowance varies by airline. Southwest Airlines offers free checked bags, while Hawaiian Airlines may charge fees depending on your ticket type. Check with your airline for specific details.

5.9 Are there any COVID-19 related travel restrictions for inter-island travel?

Travel restrictions can change frequently. Check the latest guidelines from the Hawaii Department of Health and your chosen airline before traveling to ensure you comply with all requirements.

5.10 What are some must-see attractions on each of the major Hawaiian Islands?

• Oahu: Pearl Harbor, Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head
• Maui: Haleakala National Park, Road to Hana, Kaanapali Beach
• Big Island: Volcanoes National Park, Mauna Kea Observatory, Kona Coffee Farms
• Kauai: Na Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, Poipu Beach

6. Should You Visit Multiple Islands on Your Trip to Hawaii?

If you have the time, visiting multiple islands is highly recommended to experience the unique offerings of each island. Each island offers something very unique and different. But make sure you’re giving yourself enough time on each island before moving to the next. We generally recommend that you spend at least 5 days on each island that you visit. Ideally, you’ll be able to spend a little more time on each island to fully experience it as well as relax.

Island Hopping Hawaii Guide

7. Get a Good Deal on a Rental Car While Island Hopping

When you get to a new island, you’ll probably need another rental car. Don’t spend more than you need to. We love using Discount Hawaii Car Rental when we island hop. By using them, we’ve saved thousands of dollars over the last two years (seriously). They work with national carriers and you don’t need to pay anything in advance to secure your reservation. Trust us, Discount Hawaii Car Rental is really that good.

8. Contact SIXT.VN for Your Hawaii Travel Needs

Ready to start planning your Hawaiian island-hopping adventure? Let SIXT.VN take care of all the details.

Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam

Hotline/WhatsApp: +84 986 244 358

Website: SIXT.VN

With SIXT.VN, you can enjoy a seamless and unforgettable Hawaiian vacation. We offer a wide range of services to make your trip as convenient and enjoyable as possible:

• Consultation: Expert advice to create a personalized itinerary that suits your preferences and timeframe.
• Airport Transfers: Safe and reliable transportation from the airport to your hotel.
• Hotel Bookings: A variety of accommodations to fit your budget and desired location.
• Tours and Activities: Guided tours to the most popular attractions on each island.
• Flight Bookings: Assistance with booking inter-island flights at competitive prices.

Don’t let the challenges of planning a multi-island trip overwhelm you. SIXT.VN is here to help you every step of the way, ensuring a stress-free and memorable Hawaiian vacation. Contact us today and let us turn your dream trip into a reality!

9. Embark on Your Hawaiian Adventure with SIXT.VN

With its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, Hawaii offers a unique travel experience. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant city of Honolulu, hiking through lush rainforests, or relaxing on pristine beaches, there’s something for everyone in this tropical paradise. And with SIXT.VN, planning your Hawaiian adventure has never been easier.

Let us help you create the perfect itinerary, book your accommodations, and arrange your transportation so you can focus on enjoying the journey. Contact SIXT.VN today and start planning your dream Hawaiian vacation!