Big Island + Kauai itinerary

Question

Hi Hawaii experts!

My husband and I are planning our first, and likely only, trip to Hawaii for 2 weeks in early December. He has other places he would like to go, so this trip is my thing. I’ve chosen the Big Island because Volcano National Park is my must-see. I picked Kauai because we love to hike and it just looks magnificent. We both love the outdoors and history, and some relaxing beach time would never cause a complaint. With that in mind, I’m looking for suggestions on how to split our time on each island, and what areas of each island to stay. We prefer to change hotels as little as possible. Basically, we would have 12 full days that don’t include any travel. I’ve been doing so much research on both islands, but can’t seem to make up my mind, so any advice would be greatly welcomed!

Answer

It sounds like you want a balance of adventure, hiking, natural wonders, and a touch of beach relaxation. For a two-week trip splitting between the Big Island and Kauai, early December is generally a good time weather-wise, though it can be slightly wetter on Kauai’s north shore.

Suggested time split:

Big Island: 5–6 full days. This allows time to explore Volcanoes National Park thoroughly, see the lava flows (depending on current activity), and explore both the wet and dry sides of the island.
Kauai: 6–7 full days. Kauai is smaller but hiking and exploring take time, especially along the Na Pali Coast or Waimea Canyon. The extra day allows for flexibility if some trails are closed due to weather or if you want a relaxing beach day.

Big Island lodging and areas to consider:

Hilo side: Best if Volcano National Park is your priority. Easy access to the park, Akaka Falls, and lush east side scenery. Hilo has a small-town feel, reasonable accommodations, and local food options.
Kona side: Great if you want more sunshine, beaches, and snorkeling. Also good for coffee farm tours and west side cultural sites. If you prefer to minimize hotel changes, consider staying 2–3 nights in Hilo and 2–3 nights in Kona to cover both sides without rushing.

Big Island suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive Kona/Hilo, settle in, relax, brief beach walk or town stroll.
Day 2: Volcanoes National Park – Crater Rim Drive, Thurston Lava Tube, steam vents.
Day 3: More of Volcanoes NP or hike Kīlauea Iki Trail; evening lava glow viewing.
Day 4: Akaka Falls, Hilo town, Rainbow Falls, and local markets.
Day 5: Drive around Kona side: coffee farms, Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau, beach snorkeling.
Day 6: Optional: Mauna Kea summit (tour) or beach day, depending on interest and weather.

Kauai lodging and areas to consider:

North Shore (Princeville / Hanalei): Excellent for hiking and scenic beauty. Na Pali Coast boat tours or hikes, Hanalei Bay for beach time. Rain is more likely here.
South Shore (Poipu / Koloa): Drier, sunnier beaches, easier for snorkeling and relaxing. Good home base for Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Park.
If you prefer minimal hotel changes, staying in either North or South Shore is fine. South tends to be sunnier and better for December beach time, though North is stunning for hiking and scenery.

Kauai suggested itinerary:

Day 7: Arrive Kauai, settle in, short beach walk or local town exploration.
Day 8: Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Park – hiking and scenic drives.
Day 9: Na Pali Coast boat tour or Kalalau Trail (partial hike if full trail too ambitious).
Day 10: North Shore exploration – Hanalei Bay, beaches, small town shops.
Day 11: Optional extra hike, waterfall tours, or a relaxed beach day.
Day 12: Free day – revisit favorite spots, enjoy a scenic drive, or relax before departure.

Tips to maximize your trip:

Renting a car on both islands is essential for flexibility.
Consider weather patterns: North Shore of Kauai is more prone to rain in December, so plan hiking days accordingly.
Book tours (Na Pali boat tours, Mauna Kea summit) well in advance, especially for December.
Pack layers and rain gear for hikes; it can be cool in higher elevations (Mauna Kea, Waimea Canyon) even in December.
Try to limit hotel changes: one base on each island is ideal for your 12-day plan, as suggested above.

This split provides a balance of adventure, scenic hikes, natural wonders, and a little relaxation on beaches without feeling rushed. Big Island gives you volcanic landscapes and diverse ecosystems, while Kauai offers lush hikes and dramatic coastline views — perfect for first-time Hawaii travelers who love the outdoors.

Big Island + Kauai itinerary

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