First Time in Kauai & Big Island: 14-Day Christmas/New Year’s Itinerary
My husband and I are planning a 14-night Hawaii trip from Dec 19, 2026–Jan 2, 2027, split between Kauai and the Big Island. It’s our first time on both islands, our anniversary is Dec 22, and we’ll also be there for Christmas and New Year’s.
Here’s the rough itinerary:
Day 1 – Dec 19 | Kauai
Arrive, check in around Poipu, Poipu Beach + sunset
Day 2 – Dec 20 | Kauai
Na Pali Coast boat/sea cave tour
Day 3 – Dec 21 | Kauai
Kauai Hindu Monastery + Hanalei Bay + Tunnels Beach
Day 4 – Dec 22 | Kauai
Anniversary day – Na Pali helicopter tour + relaxed afternoon/evening
Day 5 – Dec 23 | Kauai
Waimea Canyon + Kokee, assuming access is open by then
Day 6 – Dec 24 | Big Island
Fly Kauai → Hilo, check in near Volcano/Hilo, Christmas Eve
Day 7 – Dec 25 | Big Island
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park + Kilauea
Seeing an active eruption/lava would be a huge highlight for me if timing works out
Day 8 – Dec 26 | Big Island
Hilo Farmers Market + waterfalls/rainforest + Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach
Day 9 – Dec 27 | Big Island
Maunakea summit sunset + stargazing
Also keeping this day somewhat flexible in case Kilauea becomes active
Day 10 – Dec 28 | Big Island
Drive from Hilo/Volcano side to Kona/Kohala via Hamakua/Waimea
Day 11 – Dec 29 | Big Island
Whale watching + Hapuna Beach
Day 12 – Dec 30 | Big Island
Captain Cook / Kealakekua Bay snorkeling + Kona coffee farm
Day 13 – Dec 31 | Big Island
Relaxed New Year’s Eve – beach/resort + NYE celebration
Day 14 – Jan 1 | Big Island
Two Step snorkeling OR manta ray night snorkel, with the other activity moved elsewhere so we’re not snorkeling twice in one day
Day 15 – Jan 2
Fly home
We’re also debating whether Green Sand Beach/Papakolea is worth fitting in.
Would love feedback on:
- anything you’d remove, swap, or absolutely add
- anything here that’s overrated
- favorite hotels, restaurants, local food, and lesser-known experiences
- anything special for Christmas or New Year’s
Especially interested in opinions from people who live there or have traveled during Christmas/New Year’s.