Planning travel to Hawaii, a destination that tops many tropical vacation bucket lists, requires careful consideration. The archipelago exists in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, quite literally thousands of miles from its two nearest land masses—Alaska and Japan—so having a curated list of things to do can enhance your trip significantly.
Travelers navigating the world in a wheelchair or those with sensory challenges should take into account additional considerations to ensure a safe and worthwhile experience. This guide serves as your primer to accessible travel in the Hawaiian Islands, from Oahu to Hawaii Island.
Accessible Travel to Hawaii: Important Preparations
From accommodations to notifying about service animals, several important tasks should be completed ahead of your trip.
Airport Assistance is Readily Available
The most-visited islands in Hawaii include Oahu (HNL), Maui (OGG), Kauai (LIH), and Hawaii Island (Kona airport, KOA; Hilo airport, ITO). Each airport offers terminal to curbside assistance for travelers with different mobility, visual, and hearing needs.
Utilize Filters to Find Suitable Accessible Accommodations
Major hotel booking platforms and alternative accommodation sites provide search filters to identify accessibility options. For instance, searching for accessible hotels in Maui on Booking.com lists numerous properties that cater to various mobility needs. On Airbnb, search filters help you find features such as flat paths to front doors, wide doorways, and step-free access to common areas.
Submit Necessary Paperwork for Service Animals Before Traveling
Travelers accompanied by service and guide dogs need to submit required paperwork to the state’s Rabies Quarantine Branch at least ten days before travel. Upon arrival, service animals must undergo inspection at the Airport Animal Quarantine Holding Facility or upon advance request at the airport terminal.
Notify Car Rental Companies About Accessibility Needs in Advance
Car rental companies at all major airports throughout the islands are prepared to accommodate accessibility requests if notified ahead of time. They also provide delivery of rental cars directly to the airport terminal.
Oahu’s TheBus, Kauai’s Kauai Bus, Hawaii Island’s Hele-On bus service, and Maui’s Maui Bus are all wheelchair-accessible and offer paratransit services. Be sure to call for paratransit transport details.
Accessible Experiences: Enjoying Hawaii Once You Arrive
Numerous self-guided and organized recreational activities are accessible to those with varying mobility and sensory needs across the main Hawaiian islands.
Wheelchair-Accessible Beaches
A variety of beaches on Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and Hawaii Island feature accessible parking, all-terrain wheelchair rentals, and beach mats for easier access to the sand. Visitors should note that Hawaii recognizes disabled parking placards from other states.
For example, well-known locations like Ala Moana Beach Park and Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve offer all-terrain wheelchairs, typically with a two-hour rental limit.
Accessible Trails Across the Islands
For details on accessible trails in Hawaii, refer to the Department of Land and Natural Resources. The Department provides anaccessible trails map that details various trails that cater to different accessibility needs.
Which Island in Hawaii is Best for Accessible Travel?
Whether seeking relaxing beach days, vibrant cultural experiences, or breathtaking natural sights, each island offers accessible activities.
Discover Hawaiian Culture at Accessible Venues on Oahu
On Oahu’s North Shore, the Polynesian Cultural Center offers a variety of activities designed for diverse mobility access needs. Their engaging experiences range from exploring island “villages” to enjoying authentic luau dinner shows.
Kauai Caters to Travelers with Limited Mobility
The stunning landscapes of Kauai present numerous eco-adventures accessible to guests with mobility needs. Tour operators like Kipu Ranch Adventures modify their tours to accommodate diverse abilities.
Maui’s Accessible Wildlife Experiences
Maui features several accessible wildlife experiences, including the beautiful Kealia Pond Coastal Boardwalk, which offers a mile-long, wheelchair-accessible walkway. Visitors can spot native Hawaiian birds and enjoy the stunning views.
Accessibility Options on Hawaii Island (Big Island)
On the Big Island, the Kilauea Visitor Center provides wheelchairs for use and guides travelers to accessible trails within the Volcanoes National Park. Various tours, such as those offered by Body Glove, also provide accessible options.
Additional Resources for Travelers with Disabilities
Hawaii’s Disability Access and Communication board is a valuable resource for further information on accessible travel in the islands.
