Best Time To Visit

The months from June to September are known for their warm weather and pleasant water temperatures. Rainfall is at its lowest during this time. If you are looking for more affordable flights and accommodation rates, you should visit Hawaii in September, October or November. Whale watching season also starts in November.

Passport/Visa

Citizens of the Schengen countries, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and the Kingdom of Brunei can visit the United States for up to 90 days without applying for a visa (as well as citizens of Andorra, Lichtenstein, Monaco and San Marino). Citizens of these countries must obtain an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) before traveling. All other travelers must obtain a visa before visiting the United States. International travelers need a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the end of their intended trip in order to enter the country.

Hilo International Airport (ITO)

Hilo International Airport (ITO) is one of two major airports on Hawaii Island. Most flights to the airport are from Honolulu International Airport. Hilo International serves most of East Hawaii, including the districts of Hilo and Puna, as well as portions of the districts of Hāmākua and Kaʻū. Hilo International Airport is accessible by car and taxi. Public transit, Hele-On Bus, is also offered by Hawaii County.

• Web:

  airports.hawaii.gov/ito

• Address:

  2450 Kekuanaoa Street, Hilo

• Phone:

  +1 808 961 9300

Kona International Airport (KOA)

Kona International Airport (KOA) is the busier of the two airports on the Island of Hawaii. Located near the town of Kailua-Kona, the airport serves western Hawaii island, including the resorts of the North Kona and South Kohala districts. The airport is located seven miles from Kailua, and about 25 miles from Waikoloa. It is accessible by car, taxi and shuttle bus. The Hawaii County Mass Transit Agency Hele-On bus operates a very limited service between the airport and Kailua-Kona town.

• Web:

  airports.hawaii.gov/koa

• Address:

  73-200 Kupipi Street Kailua-Kona, Island of Hawaii

• Phone:

  +1 808 327 9520

• More info:

  The full name of the Airport is Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keāhole.

Public Transport

The Hawaii County Mass Transit Agency provides public transportation around Big Island on the Hele-On buses. Additionally, the Transit Agency offers a Shared Ride Taxi program which provides door-to-door transportation within the urbanized area of Hilo.

• Web:

  www.heleonbus.hawaiicounty.gov

Taxi

Uber and Lyft are available on the Big Island. Both companies have designated pick-up/drop-off areas in Kona and Hilo airports. Most taxis on the island are in and around Kona. Flagging a car on the street can be difficult — try and order your ride by phone. The following cab companies serve Big Island: Kona Taxicab LLC (+1 808 324 4444), Global Rider (+1 808 631 9196), Dakine Taxi (+1 808 329 4446).

• Web:

  www.lovebigisland.com/getting-around